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Thursday's Afternoon Update
What you need to know about Florida today
Florida jobless claim numbers up
The number of first-time unemployment claims increased last week in Florida, with an estimated 6,250 filed, according to a report released Thursday by the U.S. Department of Labor. The estimate was up from a revised count of 5,408 claims during the week that ended March 30. Florida has averaged 5,874 weekly claims since the start of the year. More from the News Service of Florida.
Florida Trend Exclusive
Financial marketplace: Passing the torch
There’s been a changing of the guard at the Florida Bankers Association, which lobbies Tallahassee and Washington, D.C., on behalf of the banking industry. Longtime leader Alex Sanchez has retired after 30 years with the organization, 26 as CEO. His successor, Kathy Kraninger, was director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau during the Trump administration and is plotting a new course for the organization. More from Florida Trend.
Survey: More jobs planned for Jacksonville, one of the hottest labor markets in country
A monthly survey of Jacksonville area manufacturers by the University of North Florida’s Local Economic Indicators Project indicates the businesses expect to expand their payrolls, building on an already strong labor market in Northeast Florida. In fact, Jacksonville was one of the hottest labor markets in the country in 2023, according to an April 9 story in The Wall Street Journal. More from the Florida Times-Union.
Michelin gives Tampa’s Streetlight Taco a Bib Gourmand distinction
Tampa restaurant Streetlight Taco on Thursday received the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand distinction, ahead of next week’s star reveal for the 2024 Florida guide. Though the James Beard awards are considered by many the Oscars of the culinary world, the Michelin Guide is arguably the most well-known and respected restaurant ratings system, known for garnering international accolades and recognition for restaurants that get star ratings. More from the Tampa Bay Times.
Massive 44-court pickleball center proposed for Ocoee
With hopes of capitalizing on pickleball’s growing popularity, a developer has submitted plans for a 44-court complex in Ocoee that could host large tournaments. The proposed facility would include a mixture of indoor and outdoor courts, with a site plan indicating that 20 would be indoor, with the remainder outside. The outdoor courts would be covered, featuring a roof that shields players from the elements and ceiling fans that can cool visitors. More from the Orlando Sentinel.
Tallahassee: A bicentennial celebration of ambitions, arts, and allure
Whether strolling through a historic site, exploring one of the city’s 700 miles of trails, indulging in local delicacies or experiencing one of the region’s many spring festivals, Tallahassee offers a unique and enchanting experience, unlike any other in Florida. This year, Tallahassee opens its arms to the world, inviting everyone to be part of the next chapter in its history. From the ambition that founded the city to the cultural relevance that defines it today, there has never been a better time to experience Florida’s Capital City. [Sponsored report]
Florida History
Remember Air Florida? Take a look back at the planes and the people.
Florida once had a high-flying namesake airline. Air Florida started out as a commuter company, expanded to key cities in the state, and then evolved into a full-service carrier with flights to the Northeast and even Europe. The orange, blue and green planes, with the distinctive “AF” logo on the tail were all over the Miami airport from the early 1970s through the mid-1980s.
» More from the Miami Herald.
Out of the Box
12,000 rubber ducks race down the river in Tampa
The Kiwanis Club of Tampa held the Incredible Duck Race on Saturday at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in Tampa, with 12,000 yellow rubber duckies bobbing along the Hillsborough River. The race benefits the Tampa Kiwanis Foundation, which supports childrens’ programs and charities. People were able to adopt a duck for $5.
» Read more from the Tampa Bay Times.
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