Tuesday's Afternoon Update

What you need to know about Florida today

| 5/19/2015

Florida agencies give dire warnings if government shuts down

The list of services that could be impacted by a shutdown is daunting. Top agency officials are saying that child support payments could be halted, Florida would no longer participate in the Medicaid program, the state would no longer respond to any hurricanes, and that the Florida National Guard would not be available in an emergency. More at the AP.

Around the State
Wings

Peter Ireland, founder, Edge Aerodynmix

Edge Aerodynamix is the latest aerospace-related company to set up shop in northwest Florida. The company’s long-range plans include construction of a $78-million plant that will house up to 120 manufacturing, research and development and marketing jobs.

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University of Miami receives $55 million 'breakthrough' gift

Stuart Miller, chair of UM's Board of Trustees and of the UM Miller School of Medicine Momentum2 campaign, announced a "breakthrough" gift of $55 million. The gift from the Miller family, lifted the University over its $1.6 billion "Momentum2: The Breakthrough Campaign" for the University of Miami goal. Outgoing President Donna Shalala was recognized for completing two major fundraising campaigns totaling more than $3 billion. Full story here.

Lobbyists in Florida are raking in cash

Millions of dollars poured into lobbying firms during the first three months of the year, as they sought to sway Florida lawmakers on issues such as gambling and health care, according to newly filed reports. More at the Jacksonville Business Journal.

Online grocery service Instacart launching in Miami

Instacart, the fast-growing grocery delivery service, has expanded to Miami, its 16th city. Beginning Tuesday, customers in Instacart’s initial delivery area can order from Whole Foods Market, Costco, Winn-Dixie, BJ’s Wholesale Club and Petco. More at the Miami Herald.

GrowFL seeking applications for 'Florida Companies to Watch'

GrowFL, Florida’s leading organization in support of second-stage growth companies, will be accepting applications for its annual Florida Companies to Watch®awards program until May 29th. More at Florida Trend.

Medical Innovations
Stem cell 'Wild West' takes root amid lack of U.S. regulation

The number of stem-cell clinics across the United States has surged from a handful in 2010 to more than 170 today, according to figures compiled by The Associated Press. Many of the clinics are linked in large, for-profit chains. New businesses continue to open; doctors looking to get into the field need only take a weekend seminar offered by a training company.