DeSantis signs up Florida for $300 jobless benefits program, but new delays could await
More than two weeks after President Trump set up a way to extend federal unemployment benefits, Gov. Ron DeSantis is applying for the program that will give an additional $300 to out-of-work Floridians who qualify. “We’re making sure we can do it and do it successfully,” DeSantis said when asked about the delay at an event in Orlando before announcing the state’s application. Thousands of jobless Floridians have been left in limbo after the previous $600 federal benefit expired July 31. [Source: Orlando Sentinel]
Florida has spent nearly $20 million dealing with algae blooms in last decade
A new study finds that Florida has spent close to $20 million trying to deal with algae blooms over the past 10 years. In its report, the nonprofit and nonpartisan Environmental Working Group identified 85 municipalities and other entities in 22 states that have spent money to prevent or treat algae blooms since 2010. Those 85 spent more than $1 billion, and according to EWG, that is likely a significant undercount. [Source: WJCT]
See also:
» Health advisory issued for Cape Coral canal due to 'algae observations'
Political ads in Florida already top 2016 totals
A pandemic and presidential politics have made 2020 an unpredictable year in Florida, but there's one thing the Sunshine State can count on this fall: A record- breaking deluge of political ads is coming. Florida, the battleground state likely to make or break President Donald Trump’s reelection chances, will be awash in television ads as part of a frantic effort to win the state’s 29 electoral votes. [Source: Politico]
After big debate over hugs, task force recommends limited nursing home visits
After five months of keeping Florida’s most vulnerable elders isolated from visitors, state regulators on Wednesday recommended that Gov. Ron DeSantis allow nursing homes and assisted living facilities to start allowing socially distanced visits from family members — but people given special designation will be allowed to hug. [Source: Miami Herald]
Support available for Florida timber producers recovering from Hurricane Michael
Timber growers in Florida who sustained damage from Hurricane Michael in October 2018 can start applying for federal recovery grants. State Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried announced registration has opened for the Florida Timber Recovery Block Grant Program and the Florida Irrigation Recovery Block Grant Program. [Source: Southeast AgNet]
ALSO AROUND FLORIDA:
› Miracle Mile to get four murals to stimulate economy
Coral Gables residents and visitors will soon have a new backdrop to photograph and post on social media with the year-long installations of four art murals along Miracle Mile. Presented by the city’s Economic Development Department during Tuesday’s city commission meeting, commissioners voted 5-0 approval of four murals on Miracle Mile to boost the recovery of the local economy and activate the downtown area.
› FDLE donates confiscated stolen goods to Brevard County charities
A truckload of stolen goods has been rerouted to good causes Wednesday, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. An investigation into an organized retail crime group resulted in the seizure of nearly $500,000 worth of health and beauty products, said Agent Jason Kriegsman, resident agent in charge of the Brevard and Volusia field office.
› Jobless claims in Sarasota-Manatee-Charlotte still climbing during pandemic
One in five workers among the Southwest Florida labor force has filed unemployment claims since the outbreak of the coronavirus. More than 87,400 workers in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties have submitted claims for state jobless benefits during the economic downturn from the pandemic, according to the latest data from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity.
› Broward County offering $25 million in rent relief funds. Here’s how to apply
Broward County is offering $25 million in assistance for renters whose households suffered a loss or reduction of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The money is part of the federal CARES Act funds allocated to cities to assist rent relief. The funds do not need to be paid back and will be issued directly to the applicants’ landlord.
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› Orlando's Magical Dining Month kicks off on Friday
Visit Orlando's Magical Dining Month event is back for 2020, kicking off this Friday, Aug. 28 and running through Oct. 4. For a mere $35, you get a sumptuous three-course, prix-fixe dinner from a bevy of participating area restaurants, and it's a really good time right now to give some dollars to local restaurants if you are able.
› Scientists catalogue shark and ray distribution in Florida lagoon
Many elasmobranch species, which include sharks, skates, and rays, use estuaries as nurseries, for birthing, and as foraging grounds. Florida's Indian River Lagoon is one of 28 estuaries designated as an "estuary of national significance" by the Environmental Protection Agency's National Estuary Program.
› Hunt on for new sponsor for Miami Heat arena
The hunt for a Miami Heat arena title sponsor goes on despite an economic slide and fan-less games due to Covid-19, an official close to the search said. The Superlative Group, hired by Miami-Dade two years ago to get a new name sponsor for AmericanAirlines Arena, is still chasing candidates, Deputy Mayor Ed Marquez said.
› Funky Biscuit to close but fans rally, giving hope the music will go on in Boca Raton
Boca Raton music venue the Funky Biscuit will close, at least temporarily, at the end of the month, another victim of the COVID-19 economy. The move will end a nearly 10-year run as one of the busiest and most beloved stages in South Florida for nationally touring and local musicians.