Wednesday's Afternoon Update
Consumer index reveals Florida residents feel concerned about U.S. economy
As the holiday shopping season approaches, some Florida residents are feeling more pessimistic about the economy. The University of Florida released its monthly consumer sentiment index is at 96.1, which is down half a point from a month ago. The study found that residents were concerned about the long-term health of the U.S. economy. See the study results here and read more from WCJB.
Downtown Orlando’s La Belle Furs will light up its neon sign again as store marks 100 years
The iconic neon yellow La Belle Furs sign in downtown Orlando is expected to light up again as part of a renovation of the 100-year family business. The origins of the store go back to Sara LaBellman starting an Orlando seamstress business in 1919. Her son later added the furs to the store and the business moved to 351 N. Orange Ave. in 1957, where it remains. More from the Orlando Sentinel.
'Robust debate' expected on E-Verify in Florida
Gov. Ron DeSantis will prioritize a controversial proposal that would require Florida businesses to use a federal system to check the immigration status of new hires, but the leader of the Florida Senate said Tuesday he is “cautious” about passing such a plan. “I expect there will be a robust debate, but the case is going to have to be made before it passes. It is not guaranteed,” Senate President Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton said. More from WJXT.
Amazon Prime members, including some in Florida, can now get free grocery delivery
Amazon Prime members in more than 2,000 cities, including some in Florida, can now get groceries delivered for free via AmazonFresh and Whole Foods Market, the company announced Tuesday. Delivery will take one to two hours and includes tens of thousands of products. More from the Orlando Sentinel.
FWC is trying to keep 'zombie deer' out of Florida with new regulations
A disease turning deer into "zombies" has spread across more than half the country. Now, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has issued an executive order to try to keep zombie deer out of Florida. Chronic wasting disease affects the nervous system of deer, elk, moose, caribou and all other members of the deer family. More from WBBH.
Business Profile
Narrative Coffee Roasters
Cape Coral-based Narrative Coffee Roasters, an online wholesale coffee business, is planning to open its first brick-and-mortar retail store. Narrative Coffee Roasters will serve a variety of coffees, including espresso-based and drip coffees, a number of teas, hot cocoa, pastries, salads, sandwiches, wine and local craft beer. Its line of wholesale coffees will also be available for sale.
» More from the Business Observer.
Out of the Box
Is that Superman atop that 8-story building? With a squeegee in his hand?
Look, up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s ... Superman! Also, Batman, Spider-Man, Captain America ... a policeman, a pirate and a witch? The costumed workers made for quite a sight Tuesday morning standing atop scaffolding outside the Tampa Bay Times building in downtown St. Petersburg.
» Read more from the Tampa Bay Times.