Helene to be among largest Gulf hurricanes in decades, forecasts say
The massive size of Hurricane Helene will likely place it among the largest hurricanes to threaten our region so far this century. If forecasts hold true, the storm could stretch more than 400 miles across by Thursday afternoon when its center is expected to pass about 125 miles off the coast of Tampa Bay toward landfall in the Panhandle More from the Tampa Bay Times, the Tallahassee Democrat and the Pensacola News Journal.
Florida Trend Exclusive
Florida energy: Sparking savings
Florida has a slippery history with energy efficiency — but state-led initiatives will soon get a beneficial boost. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed off on $346 million in federal funding in June for energy efficiency upgrades, retrofits and high-efficiency appliances in Florida. It’s a change from last year, when he vetoed nearly $30 million in state money meant for energy-saving programs, costing the state access to the full $346 million from the Biden Administration’s Rewiring America program. [Source: Florida Trend]
Florida's health care board sued over Medicaid managed-care plan oversight
Attorneys for people with disabilities have filed a federal lawsuit alleging the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration has not provided adequate oversight of Medicaid managed-care plans that care for people in their homes. The 79-page lawsuit, filed Monday in Tallahassee, centers on part of Florida’s Medicaid system that contracts with managed-care plans to provide what are known as home- and community-based services for people who need long-term care. [Source: News Service of Florida]
What are the top real estate agencies in Florida? Here's a look
In Florida, there's no shortage of real estate agents. In fact, the state has more of them than any other in the nation. That's according to the National Association of Realtors. The association's last report from early 2024 showed more than 220,000 real estate agents in Florida as members (giving them the official title of Realtor, in exchange for joining and following the trade group's Code of Ethics). [Source: USA Today]
Construction projects can have short term loss, but long term gains for surrounding businesses.
There’s been a lot of news lately about well known and well established Florida community staples closing their doors for good, and even more struggling to stay afloat. While the reasons vary depending on the business, for some, major construction projects are hurting their bottom line. [Source: Central Florida Public Media]
ALSO AROUND FLORIDA:
› As Florida’s soil and water boards face scrutiny, supporters stay hopeful about their future
As the Nov. 5 general election approaches, many candidates have run for elected, unpaid positions on boards for soil and water conservation districts across Florida. They’re vying to represent districts that in recent years have come under increased scrutiny in Florida.
› Global saltwater brand founded in Jacksonville Beach closing retail stores
Salt Life, the lifestyle brand that started with a simple window decal more than 20 years ago in Jacksonville Beach and expanded to more than 20 stores nationwide, is set to shutter its retail store operations as it shifts its focus to wholesale and e-commerce.
› Orlando-based IAAPA planning attractions expo in Abu Dhabi
IAAPA is adding another site to its expo lineup. The attractions industry association will debut its IAAPA Expo Middle East in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, in 2026. The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, based in Orlando, already has major trade show-style events in the U.S., Asia and Europe. The announcement was made during IAAPA Expo Europe, held in Amsterdam this week.
› Tampa Bay Lightning score a new official bank sponsor
Just in time for the start of the preseason, Vinik Sports Group and Pittsburgh-based PNC bank announced that PNC is the official retail bank sponsor of the Tampa Bay Lightning. The sponsorship is the financial institution’s largest local sponsorship investment since entering the Tampa Bay market in 2011.
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› Union accuses Brightline of obstructing organizing bid, asks U.S. DOT to block future funding
A union seeking to organize onboard Brightline workers in Florida is accusing management of hindering the effort, and has asked the U.S. Department of Transportation to consider blocking future federal funding for the high-speed railroad.
› Orlando Home and Garden Show returns with everything from ‘front door to the backyard’
The Orlando Home and Garden Show returns for its fall edition this weekend with 160,000 square feet of vendors, seminars, family-friendly activities and home improvement ideas at the Orange County Convention Center. The event, now in its 14th year, delivers “something for everyone,” said Pam Rogers, vice president of strategic planning and development for Show Technology Productions.
› Amtrak to run Chicago-Miami route for first time since 1979
Amtrak, which ended direct rail links between Chicago and Miami in 1979, is reconnecting the Midwest and Miami by direct rail starting Nov. 10, if only temporarily. The new service will combine one route between Chicago and Washington, DC, with another train between Miami and Washington to create a one-seat ride from Miami to the Midwest.
› St. Pete used car dealership files for Chapter 11
Level Up Auto Sales in St. Petersburg is the latest used car dealership to file for bankruptcy as the bubble bursts on record high prices. Level Up listed between $10 million and $50 million in debt and $1 million and $10 million in assets in the Chapter 11 filed in the Middle District of Florida bankruptcy court last week.