UCF President John Hitt to retire

University of Central Florida President John Hitt announced Tuesday morning he’ll retire in 2018. Hitt, 76, has been at the helm of the school for nearly 26 years. His retirement is effective June 30. See Dr. Hitt's letter announcing his retirement, here. Also read more at the Orlando Sentinel.

From Florida Trend:
» Strength in numbers: Profile of UCF President John Hitt

Report: Well-being of black and Hispanic children continues to lag in Florida

Despite making progress in health care access and parental employment, Florida has not improved its poverty rate for children over the past five years, a newly released national report shows. More from the Tampa Bay Times and WUSF.

See also:
» Annie E. Casey Foundation: "Race for Results"Index (PDF)
» 2017 Florida Child Well Being Index, from KidsCount (PDF)

Sarasota area small businesses give region B+ for regulatory support

The Sarasota area ranked No. 23 out of 80 regions – a received a B+ overall grade – in a survey about small business sentiments toward state and local government policies. More from the Bradenton Herald.

Record-setting cargo moved through Jacksonville Port Authority terminals

Aided by a rising economic tide, the Jacksonville Port Authority posted record numbers for shipping automobiles and cargo containers during the fiscal year that ended Sept. 30. More from the Florida Times-Union.

Florida auto dealers find 'silver lining' in chance to rebuild, upgrade

Hurricane Irma did not spare some new-vehicle dealerships — including their service departments — when it assailed Florida last month. Destruction was worst across the Florida Keys and along the state's west coast. More from the Automotive News.