Friday's Daily Pulse
Florida's hurricane-free streak in jeopardy
Florida's record streak of nearly eight years without a hurricane strike may be in jeopardy. Tropical Storm Karen flirted with hurricane strength Thursday and could be on a collision course with the Panhandle. Gov. Rick Scott has declared a state of emergency for 18 North Florida counties. More from the Sarasota Herald-Tribune and the Tampa Bay Times.
Fewer job cuts announced in September
Planned job cuts in September dropped from a month earlier in Florida and the rest of the nation, according to a report from outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas. Florida job cuts announced in September reached 863, bringing the Sunshine State's total year-to-date layoffs to 15,968, the highest in the southern region. [Source: South Florida Business Journal]
Two years later, NASA workers still mourn end of shuttle
Up and down the Space Coast, a similar story is playing out for thousands of families. Though the initial shock of the shuttle's retirement has long faded, the grind to find meaningful work - and a comparable paycheck - remains a constant pursuit. [Source: Phys.org]
Small businesses fear bankruptcy from national park shutdowns
The closure of national parks from sea to shining sea isn't just a disappointment to the millions of tourists who visit each year. It's also a kick in the gut for the small-business owners who run the shops and kiosks that depend on the tourists to stay in business. [Source: NBC News]
Related:
» Shutdown Day 3: Food distributor stalled, charter boat captains docked
Florida election chief tries to win support for purge
Florida's top election official is starting his push to get election supervisors to back a plan to remove non-U.S. citizens from the state's voter rolls. But top Democrats, including U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, are already criticizing the move as a "political ploy" by Gov. Rick Scott to intimidate valid voters. [Source: AP]
ALSO AROUND FLORIDA:
› Skyscanner aims to grow Miami office [Miami Herald]
Skyscanner, the fast-growing global online travel search company, has opened its Miami office, which will serve as headquarters for the U.S., Latin American and Canadian markets.
› From FM to AM: The latest evolution of local radio [South Florida Sun-Sentinel]
What's the frequency, South Florida? If you're wondering why you're hearing some of your favorite AM sports and news talk stations on the FM dial lately, it's part of a recent migration that's changing the airwaves.
› Tampa International to revamp its entire dining and shopping lineup [Tampa Bay Times]
Imagine a Taco Bus at Tampa International Airport. Or maybe Cinnabon making its long-awaited final approach. Get ready for a whole new slew of places to eat, shop, drink and maybe even get a massage and facial while waiting for flights at the airport.
› Boca resort works to break out of time capsule [South Florida Sun-Sentinel]
The Boca Raton Resort & Club is aiming to lure younger, tech-savvy travelers and local residents by shedding some traditional ways of doing business. Along the way, it also wants to ease its heavy reliance on high-end corporate meetings.
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› $50 million Powerball winner has yet to show [Tampa Bay Times]
Back in May, a lucky someone bought a winning Powerball ticket at Carrollwood Market. The jackpot: $50 million. Either that someone doesn't know or is keeping a secret. The ticket holder has until midnight on Nov. 22, to collect the winnings.
› Florida law says found items must be turned in to police [South Florida Sun-Sentinel]
In Florida, finders aren't always keepers. Suppose you spot an expensive camera on a park bench. Or maybe a wad of crisp $50 bills. Better march those items straight over to the nearest police department. If not, you can face a serious criminal charge.
› Orlando airport has deal for rail connection [AP]
The board that governs the Orlando International Airport has reached a deal with a private company that could make an intercity passenger rail between Orlando and Miami one step closer.
› Farmers markets return for the season [Tampa Bay Times]
It's October and that means farmers markets are returning — a time to put your tiny dog in a stroller, suck on a gourmet caramel and sea salt popsicle and rummage through some artisanal cheeses.