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Tuesday's Afternoon Update
What you need to know about Florida today
Florida tourism continues to surpass pre-pandemic levels
Rising air fares and a summer of high gas prices have done little to slow the upward surge of tourism traffic to Florida. That's a plus for the million and a half people in the Sunshine State who work in our top industry. Some of the credit may go to a major marketing ad blitz. As more countries relax COVID-19 protocols for travelers, the U.S. and Florida should see an increase in tourism traffic. More from the WESH.
Food service slumps in Central Florida as restaurants struggle to keep employees
People eating at restaurants in Central Florida may have noticed service has slowed down. This is because restaurant owners are having trouble finding and retaining employees. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for chefs and head cooks is far outpacing the number of students interested. More from WFTV.
Florida named the best state to retire in 2022
Whether it’s kicking back on the porch reading the newspaper, enjoying the outdoors or just being closer to the grandkids, post-career goals vary for people. But all states are not the same when it comes to retirement, a recent study from Bankrate found. The Southeast dominated the top two spots followed by some Midwest states and others across the U.S. Florida, well known for its warm weather, abundant golf and retirement communities such as The Villages, unsurprisingly took the top spot. More from the WFLA.
Booz Allen plans to add 100 to 150 employees to its high-tech Melbourne staff
Booz Allen plans to add 100 to 150 employees to its high-tech Melbourne staff Dave Berman Florida Today A relatively new player in the Space Coast's technology sector is making a big impression with its fast expansion. After technology and consulting company Booz Allen Hamilton Inc. acquired Liberty IT Solutions LLC in June 2021, it expanded the company's 200-employee Melbourne operations to more than 300. And it now could be hiring 100 to 150 more people within a year for the Melbourne operation. More from Florida Today.
Northeast Florida building permits rebound in August
The number of single-family home building permits increased in August after four months of decline, according to the Northeast Florida Builders Association. A total of 1,180 permits were issued in Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties in August. In July, 940 permits were issued. The year began with 1,457 permits in January but began to show slight decreases beginning in April, with 1,208 issued. There were 1,195 permits issued in May and 1,193 in June. More from the Jacksonville Daily Record.
Public Safety
Stay away: Florida's puss caterpillar is one of the most venomous insects in the US
The venomous puss caterpillars are popping up around Florida – and you'll want to keep your distance. They're normally about an inch long and are often found near oak and citrus trees. The critters are mostly active in the spring and fall. Under its innocent looking hairs are stiff spines attached to poison glands. When touched, these spines break off into the skin and cause severe pain.
Business Profile
Miami-based Mind&Melody uses music to lift seniors' spirits
Mind&Melody uses music to help seniors and others engage and regain their spirit while giving young musicians a sense of purpose. The non-profit also helps children and young adults with disabilities find their strengths, gain confidence and build friendships through music.
» Read more from Florida Trend.
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