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Tuesday's Afternoon Update
What you need to know about Florida today
Trade deficit widens as exports sag, imports from China surge
U.S. exports took a hit from an ailing global economy in August and imports from China surged, fueling the largest expansion of America's trade deficit in five months. The data released on Tuesday by the Commerce Department illustrates the U.S. economy's vulnerabilities to a strong dollar and weak demand in foreign markets. More from Reuters and the AP.
Florida Citrus Hall of Fame creating a video legacy
Officials at the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame are looking for people with stories. “We’re more than just inducting people into the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame,” said John Jackson, president of the hall organization. “We want to educate people about the history of Florida citrus and the history of the state.” More at the Lakeland Ledger.
Arts district taking shape in downtown Gainesville
The new Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention, opening late next year, is expected to bring thousands of people to an area of the city they might not have visited unless they needed car repairs or construction supplies. More at the Gainesville Business Report.
Delray sets up virtual hotline for small businesses
Delray Beach has launched a new virtual hotline for local small businesses. Entrepreneurs and business owners can email requests for assistance and questions directly to smallbizhelp@delraybeach.com to get help with common challenges that many small businesses face. More at the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
Jacksonville's Crowley Maritime lands $130-million military contract
Crowley officials announced the company was awarded a technical management agreement for five United States government-owned Military Sealift Command container ships. More at the Florida Times-Union.
Florida Trend Exclusive
A long view on venture capital
Russ Vernon, a recent arrival on Florida's venture capital scene, says the state needs to take a long view when it comes to attracting more venture capital and venture capital firms. Vernon thinks Florida is still building the foundation for entrepreneurship -- which is needed to generate the kind of ideas and companies that will attract more VC firms.
Out of the Box
Canines detect deadly disease in historic avocado trees
FIU's International Forensic Research Institute is using canines to combat laurel wilt. Specially trained canines can detect the disease before symptoms are visible.
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