Florida farm stand owners navigate regulations and rising temperatures
Farm stands have become a unique way for consumers to buy homemade baked goods, fresh eggs and handcrafted items. But behind the curated display, owners must adapt to Florida’s Cottage Food laws and summer heat which influence what products they can sell, how they have to present them and keep products fresh. More from WUFT.
Atlantic season’s first tropical storm of 2026 could form as early as today, NHC says
Forecasters with the National Hurricane Center said it’s possible that the first named storm of the 2026 Atlantic season could form in the Gulf on Tuesday or Wednesday. A trough of low pressure located near the Texas/Mexico border early Tuesday was expected to move over the northwestern Gulf by late Tuesday or early Wednesday, and could become a “short-lived tropical storm.” Experts gave it a 60% chance of tropical development in 48 hours, up from 40% a day earlier. More from the Orlando Sentinel.
Study: New fuel terminal for PortMiami could cost county $733M to $1B
As Miami-Dade County officials consider using eminent domain proceedings to seize the fuel terminal on Fisher Island from a condo developer, a recent study shows that it would cost the county $733 million to $1.04 billion to build a new fuel terminal at PortMiami. The study, which the county ordered from AECOM, shows there are three alternative PortMiami sites where it would be feasible to build a fuel terminal serving the cargo and cruise ships. More from the South Florida Business Journal.
As SpaceX enters second week on market, a look at the company's presence in Florida
The company has a major presence on Florida's Space Coast, employing hundreds and launching frequently from Cape Canaveral. SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket is a frequent flier from Florida, launching satellites, national security missions, and NASA astronauts. Construction is underway at Kennedy Space Center for the launch pad and support facilities for SpaceX's massive Starship system. More from Florida Today.
East Tampa becomes focus of manufacturing job strategy
Manufacturing companies have become the largest source of new business leads entering Hillsborough County, but Tampa converts those prospects into projects at a lower rate than other industries. The Tampa Bay Economic Development Council says manufacturing now accounts for 36% of its project pipeline, more than any other industry sector. Manufacturing leads have increased 30% since 2020, according to materials prepared for a June 18 presentation to Tampa City Council. More from Tampa Bay Business & Wealth.
Individual and corporate charitable giving
When it comes to philanthropy, individuals and businesses give to charity for a variety of reasons: personal fulfillment, helping important causes and driving civic and corporate engagement. Whether related to annual giving or estate planning, charitable giving can provide significant tax incentives. Maybe that's why corporate and personal charitable giving in the U.S. continues to grow. [Sponsored report]
Tech Trends
Sarasota test pilot takes next step in electric flight
Sarasota-based test pilot Miguel Iturmendi logged another aerial first recently when he flew his world-record-setting Helios Horizon electric airplane with solid-state batteries. The solid state batteries, which Iturmendi developed and created locally, double the range and flight time possible compared to electric-vehicle batteries.
» More from the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.
Florida Trend Exclusive
Immersive SkyScape
Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens has opened its J. Wayne and Delores Barr Weaver Manatee River and VyStar SkyScape entrance. The 333,000-gallon facility was designed for the rescue, rehabilitation and release of Florida manatees. The SkyScape includes an immersive video screen, a café and retail space, and views of the Manatee River habitat.
» Read more from Florida Trend.