The burden of a positive COVID-19 test result has some Floridians “test shopping” for a negative

With long waits for results, people in Florida are test shopping. They are searching for where they can get results fast. They are shopping so they can get two negatives. They are trying the nasal swab and the oral swab and the antibody tests -- all in their quest for two negative results so they can socialize again or go back to work. More from the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

Broward’s retail market remains relatively unscathed. That is expected to change

The Broward retail market remains relatively untouched from the pandemic, according to a new study. Its saving grace? Government aid. Since the first quarter, average occupancy rates have dropped by 0.3% for outdoor shopping centers with over 20,000 square feet, according to a July retail report published by 11th St. Capital. More from the Miami Herald.

Florida business agency, not health departments, dealing with COVID-19 issues at restaurants

It’s the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) that is handling pandemic-related issues in food-service establishments. Local health departments do, however, perform contact tracing as a means of helping control the spread of COVID-19 — although funding and other resources have been limited — that could lead to local businesses as a potential location for COVID-19 cases. More from the Panama City News Herald.

Nonprofit serving older adults announces new headquarters project

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is getting a new headquarters. The nonprofit’s new space, at 2830 Winkler Ave., will include a floor plan that enhances workflow and productivity, according to a statement. Fort Myers-based Seagate Development Group is the lead design and construction firm for the project, the release states. The facility includes 15,876 square feet of small and large private offices, large meeting rooms and co-working spaces for cubicles. More from the Business Observer.

Florida used bookstore seeking community support to survive during pandemic

The shutdown to curb the spread of the coronavirus earlier this year put a lot of businesses into a bind financially, especially small businesses. In accordance with government orders, Brant’s Used Books in Sarasota closed its doors for two months during the height of the pandemic. The bookstore is well-known, having been in business for more than 60 years. More from WTSP.