We are a few months into a new administration and Congress, and whether you are conservative or liberal, I think we can all agree that the challenges our country faced previously have not gone away. We are still battling the pandemic, and there remain large political divisions and differing opinions about the correct course for the country.

Political differences are nothing new. They will always exist. Nevertheless, I’m confident that we can find common ground as we move forward.

As we head into this year’s legislative session in Florida, we need our state lawmakers to work together to enact policies that strengthen our state as the pandemic runs its course. They must continue to create a solid foundation for our businesses and their employees and for our state’s educational systems (K-12 and post-secondary). We need our representatives to appropriately fund marketing initiatives to promote our tourism and hospitality industries and provide the tools that our cities, counties and state economic developers need to attract, recruit and retain businesses.

On that note, I’m sure you’ll find this month’s issue especially insightful. Amy Keller highlights some of the most important topics lawmakers will need to address this legislative session, including managing the fine line between many COVID-related expenses and delivering a balanced budget.

Amy Martinez takes a look at some of Florida’s greatest assets — its system of state parks and other outdoor amenities.

As the pandemic has limited the activities we can safely engage in, Floridians have discovered a new appreciation for outdoor activities while we try our best to remain socially distanced. Local parks, bike paths, trails and national parks provide perfect venues for fighting cabin fever.

Take a look at some of the best that nature has to offer — right here in our back yard.

You also will not want to miss our special feature on MBA programs around the state. Read about some of Florida’s newest MBA professors — and the eclectic mix of talent and knowledge they bring to the classroom.

Learn what leaders in St. Lucie County are doing to create a welcoming environment for research, real estate, manufacturing, health care and other industries.

I wish you and your business success as we continue to navigate these unprecedented times.

— David Denor, Publisher
[ddenor@floridatrend.com]

 

Read more in Florida Trend's March issue.
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