The economic impact of online casinos on Florida’s state revenue
Florida has long been a major force in the U.S. tourism and entertainment economy. From cruise ports to tribal gaming venues, entertainment has shaped the state’s financial structure for decades. Today, attention is increasingly shifting toward online casinos and digital betting platforms. As more U.S. states regulate online gaming, an important question emerges: what role could online casinos play in Florida’s future state revenue? More from the South Florida Reporter.
Tax law could be boon for Jacksonville auto show
Tax season may help sell new cars at this weekend’s Jacksonville International Auto Show, according to some financial experts. That’s good news for the auto dealers lining up their latest cars, trucks and SUVs for the annual show at the Prime Osborn Convention Center, says a leader of the local dealers association. Jacksonville Today thanks our sponsors. Become one. People who buy new vehicles made in the United States can file for a new tax deduction on their 2025 tax filing. More from Jacksonville Today.
SeaWorld aims for multifamily residences, not hotels, across from Orlando theme park
A recent development filing in Orange County offers insight into the new direction SeaWorld and its parent company are taking on some prime real estate around the theme park, after quietly pulling the plug on plans for two future hotels. The company is seeking a so-called Change Determination Review that would allow it to build up to 670 multifamily units on undeveloped land along Sea Harbor Drive, across from the main parking lot, for a project called SeaWorld Vacation Village. More from the Orlando Sentinel.
GRU to raise electric fuel charge again amid winter natural gas shortages
Gainesville Regional Utilities announced it will raise its electric fuel adjustment charge for the third time in three months due to natural gas shortages caused by the "record-breaking winter." Starting March 1, GRU's electric fuel adjustment will rise from 45 mills to 50 mills. Customers who use 1,000 kWh will see a monthly average bill of about $151.60. The decision comes as GRU works to recover millions of dollars in additional fuel expenses caused by natural gas shortages. More from the Gainesville Sun.
Boynton Beach lays off top staff to cope with $4.9M budget deficit
Boynton Beach is facing a $4.9 million budget deficit, prompting layoffs of senior city staff. The city has laid off five high-level employees, including the City Clerk and IT Director, to save $550,000. Increased spending on police and fire department salaries contributed significantly to the budget shortfall. City officials are considering further cost-saving measures, such as a four-day work week for City Hall and a hiring freeze. More from the Palm Beach Post.
Leaders in innovation and excellence in pediatric oncology
The medical professionals at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital believe no child should have to leave South Florida to receive world-class, life-saving cancer care. Nicklaus Children’s Helen & Jacob Shaham Cancer & Blood Disorders Institute offers one of the nation’s most comprehensive and innovative pediatric oncology programs. The hospital brings together advanced diagnostics, treatment and long-term monitoring for the full spectrum of childhood cancers and blood disorders. [Sponsored report]
Business Beat - Week of February 27th
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Florida Dining
Florida's Black chefs reclaim food, culture as Black History Month turns 100
Food has always carried more than flavor. It carries memory, labor, survival and influence. Across Florida – and much of the South – Black chefs are using it to reshape who holds power in American dining. From Miami to the Gulf Coast and into the Panhandle, chefs cooking from Caribbean, Southern and Afro-diasporic traditions are building restaurants, platforms and legacies rooted in culture – and increasingly, ownership.
» Read more from the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.