Florida remains third-biggest generator of private sector jobs

Creation of private sector jobs in Florida picked up in June as the state persists as the third biggest job generator in the country, according to a report released Wednesday. Florida added 22,620 private jobs, up from 17,280 jobs in May, according to national payroll processing company ADP. More at the Tampa Bay Times and ADP.

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Bake sales are out - crowdfunding is in

The new online craze of crowdfunding allows anyone to go on the Internet and raise money for a cause. From funerals to medical surgeries, Amor Sierra and South Floridians are using the website to fund causes close to their hearts. More at the Miami Herald.

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Google picks 5 charities to create ideas for Glass

Publisher's Column An issue of 'elites' in Florida Welcome to Florida Trend’s annual compendium of the largest companies in Florida. We list the top 350, divided between publicly traded companies, where valuation information is readily available, and private companies, where information is harder to come by. » Full column

Google has chosen five charities, including one from Florida, to develop ideas using Web-connected Google Glass to enhance their work. The nonprofits will receive a free pair of the glasses, a $25,000 grant and support from developers. More at the AP.

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Davie-based restaurant plans large expansion into Mexico

FROOTS, a fast-service health food restaurant chain based in Davie, signed a 50-store development agreement to expand into Mexico. Mexico-based venture capital Nummorum Group will develop the brand in Latin America. More at the South Florida Business Journal.

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Northrop reiterates commitment to Florida

Northrop Grumman Corp., which is planning a major expansion in Melbourne, reiterated its commitment to Brevard County and the Sunshine State on Tuesday, following media reports out of California about the heated competition over a $55-billion contract for a fleet of next-generation stealth bombers. More at Florida Today.

Out of the Box How NASA reinvented the tortilla During the early space shuttle days, NASA sent its astronauts into the heavens with fresh bread packed into a special food locker so they could make sandwiches. But on one mission, a payload specialist from Mexico joined the shuttle crew, and he packed tortillas in the fresh food locker. Shortly thereafter, high above Earth, the rest of the crew saw the benefits of rolling food up in the tortillas. NASA would never be the same. » CNET

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