SHARE:
Wednesday's Daily Pulse
What you need to know about Florida today
Florida's economy thrives, yet median wages remain the same
By most standards, the economy is thriving. Home prices are soaring, and the markets are hitting new highs. Still though, thousands of middle class families are struggling to make ends meet. That’s because while productivity is up 72 percent since 1979, real median wages have only risen about 9 percent. [Source: WWSB]
Florida scientists talk laurel wilt in California
University of Florida scientists are traveling to California in early August to share information on ways to combat laurel wilt in avocado trees. So far, the disease has not spread to California but it is actively threatening Florida’s $100 million avocado industry. Full story here.
Florida consumer sentiment continues upward in July
Consumer sentiment among Floridians rose 1.5 points in July to 97.7, the second-highest reading since March 2002. Among the five components that make up the index, three increased and two decreased. Full story from UF news, here. Also read more at the AP.
Get your wasps and join the fight against citrus greening
To defend the state’s citrus crop from an industry-crippling infection, scientists with the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services are fighting pest with parasite. Florida residents can apply online to the department for tiny parasitic wasps called tamarixia that hunt the Asian citrus psyllid, an invasive insect that spreads the fatal disease “citrus greening.” [Source: Gainesville Sun]
Former Knight Foundation director announces bid for US Congress
The rumors are true: Matt Haggman is running for public office, transitioning from the topsy-turvy world of South Florida startups to the arguably more turbulent environment of national politics. [Source: South Florida Business Journal]
› Litigation involving HOA boards, condo associations often needs "an ounce of prevention."
A court situation that requires appointment of a receiver is challenging. Beware of exorbitant fees that can make a bad situation worse.
› Silver Airways announces new CEO, $1.1B fleet investment
Effective Aug. 7, Steve Rossum will replace Sami Teittinen as the company's CEO. The company said Rossum, who was appointed to the role in 2014, is leaving for personal reasons.
› Jacksonville’s APR Energy inks contract to install power grids in South Australia
Jacksonville-based APR Energy signed a contract to provide its portable power facilities to an area of South Australia where the company is in the midst of an international trade dispute. Also read more at the Florida Times-Unon.
› SeaWorld attorneys deny 'Blackfish' hurt stock prices
SeaWorld attorneys, responding to a 2014 lawsuit that accused the company of misleading investors about the "Blackfish” documentary’s impact, have denied in court documents the film greatly affected stock prices.
Go to page 2 for more stories ...
In case you missed it:
