Florida Trend | Florida's Business Authority

Tuesday's Afternoon Update

Florida fracking ban could run into roadblocks

A proposal backed by environmentalists to ban fracking in Florida eased through a Senate committee Monday. But the effort to impose a ban on the controversial oil- and gas-drilling process may be in trouble already, with the start of the 2020 legislative session still more than two months away. More from the Pensacola News-Journal and WJXT.

See also:
» Senate panel approves Florida Forever funding and fracking ban

Ron DeSantis announces $3 million in loans available for rural projects across Florida

On Monday, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced there was $3 million available in loan for projects in rural communities through the Rural Community Development Revolving Loan Fund Program. According to the governor’s office, the funds are available to fund projects in rural areas that “create and retain jobs, maintain economic activity of an existing industry or promote diversification of the local economy” and “provides local governments with access to financial assistance to promote the economic viability of rural Florida communities.” Read the announcement here and read more from Florida Daily.

Young Bradenton woman turns her passion for health into a business

18-year-old Brianna Dine-Stisser was in search of restaurants in Bradenton that provided a healthy meal and environment. She felt the nutritious options were limited so she decided to create her own, The Daily Dose Juice Garden. The startup process was funded by two family investors and a $25,000 grant from the city of Bradenton for interior renovations. More from the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.

USDA sanctions Florida, Michigan, Texas firms under PACA

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has imposed sanctions on businesses in Florida, Michigan and Texas for violations of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. The USDA has suspended PACA licenses and barred principal operators from “engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without approval from the USDA,” according to a news release. More from the Packer.

Dubai superyacht named Best in Show at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

The Best in Show at the 60th annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show sold on the five-day event’s final day. The Majesty 140, a tri-deck superyacht made in Dubai, sold for about $20 million, said Greg Terraglio, president of Sovereign Marine Group of Stuart. The yacht boasts extensive side windows, an owner’s stateroom, private extendable balcony and Jacuzzi tub. It includes a garage for water sports equipment, such as Jet Skis. More from the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

Out of the Box
A life-sized Pac-Man maze is coming to Orlando in 2020

 Classic arcade game fans in Orlando will have an opportunity to assume the role of Pac-Man when a human-sized version of the maze comes to town in 2020. During the pop-up event on Oct. 10 of next year, visitors will work to dodge ghosts and collect fruit to win points. In addition, attendees will work to complete a coded puzzle, competing to top the leaderboard or be crowned the ultimate winner.

» More from the Orlando Sentinel.

 

Trend Mention

Mention ImageEVENT: Florida Cybersecurity Forum - November 19-20 - Lake Buena Vista

The security of the business community has become increasingly vulnerable due to the rising threat of cyber-attacks. Every business is a potential target. Taking the steps needed to protect your company’s data is more important than ever. Given the severity of the challenges to Florida’s employers, the Foundation of AIF will convene business leaders, issue experts and senior government officials for an educational dialogue on cybersecurity, its escalating impact on governments, industry, and our communities, and how the public and private sectors can work together to better fortify Florida. www.faif.org.

Sports Business
Ahead of Super Bowl LV, NFL seeks diverse Tampa Bay vendors and businesses

floridaThe NFL is already thinking about the vendors it needs to get Tampa Bay ready for Super Bowl LV, and it wants the candidates to be diverse. The NFL launched its Business Connect program, a partnership between the football league and its Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host Committee, on Monday at Raymond James Stadium. The program will help businesses owned by minorities — including gay, bisexual and transgender people — women and veterans prepare to win Super Bowl vendor contracts.

» Read more from the Tampa Bay Times and WTSP.