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Wednesday's Afternoon Update
What you need to know about Florida today
Destination Florida: IRS data says it's a top choice of Americans on the move
New federal data says Florida is one of the most desired destinations for Americans wanting to move and continues to be the fastest growing state in the country. According to IRS migration data, Florida has gained more people than any other state in the U.S since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The Sunshine State's government continues to add more employment opportunities and tax breaks, enhancing the chances migration to Florida could continue on the same trend. The IRS data is derived from income tax filings. More from the Center Square.
Underpaid court reporters threaten to walk out of criminal cases in Broward
Broward court officials are working to keep dozens of court reporters on the job after they filed notice to stop covering criminal trials later this month, a development that could grind the justice system to a halt for the most serious felony cases in the county. Boss Reporting and Bailey & Associates, the two firms that provide court reporters for the criminal division of the 17th Judicial Circuit, have each filed a 30-day notice terminating their contract, each complaining that they have not received a substantial raise in their rates for more than 20 years. More from the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
Orlando-based Darden buys Ruth’s Chris steak houses
The Orlando owner of Olive Garden and other chain restaurants is buying Winter Park-based Ruth’s Hospitality Group for about $715 million. Darden Restaurants revealed the all-cash deal Wednesday, saying it is paying $21.50 per share. Ruth’s stock price was at $16.03 per share Tuesday at market closing. Ruth’s has 80 company-owned or operated Ruth’s Chris Steak House restaurants and 74 franchised locations worldwide. More from the Orlando Sentinel.
52-story Miami Worldcenter tower adding to project as it rises
The plan to build a new hotel and condo tower in Miami Worldcenter, already under construction, is changing due to the purchase of an adjacent property. Miami Worldcenter Legacy Hotel will rise at 938 NE First Ave. with 52 stories, home to a 218-room hotel and 308-unit residential condominium, along with office space for a medical facility. The project was first approved by the City of Miami’s Urban Development Review Board in late 2021. More from Miami Today.
Small businesses in southern St. Petersburg can apply for city grants
Over $1.35 million in grants is up for grabs for southern St. Petersburg’s small businesses. The city on Tuesday announced a microfund program to provide capital and resources to small businesses within the South St. Petersburg Community Redevelopment Area. The program was developed for businesses that are unable to meet stricter requirements for CRA dollars meant to uplift a community historically and disproportionally affected by poverty. More from the Tampa Bay Times.
Event
Riverfest returns to Tampa Riverwalk with music, balloon glow, lantern parade
For its eighth year, Riverfest in Tampa will celebrate the ribbon of park land called the Riverwalk, an idea that took decades to create but now feels like a long-cherished friend. The two-day celebration this year will include a market of independent vendors, a taste of local restaurants and the return of the lighted lantern parade and hot air balloons lit up after dark.
» More from the Tampa Bay Times.
Arts Business
Miami playwright Vanessa Garcia presents world premiere at the Arsht Center
These days, playwright Vanessa Garcia’s name is popping up everywhere. Actors’ Playhouse in Coral Gables recently announced it would begin its 2023-24 season in November with the Florida premiere of “Sweet Goats and Blueberry Señoritas” by Garcia and Richard Blanco, the Miamian who read his poem “One Today” at President Barack Obama’s second inauguration in 2013.
» Read more from the Miami Herald.
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