Local Business
Sunday, May 3, 2026 · Odessa
South Florida's Older Condos Surge in Sales Amid Affordability Crunch
In a twist defying luxury trends, South Florida's aging condos are flying off the market faster than new builds, drawing remote workers priced out of gleaming towers. Owners rush to sell ahead of looming financial cliffs from post-Surfside laws, creating bargains in Miami-Dade and beyond. But statewide condo prices plummet, signaling a buyer's paradise with risks.
JAXPORT's Jax Forward Strategy Fuels Florida Job Boom
Jacksonville's port is surging ahead with record cargo volumes and multimillion-dollar expansions, creating tens of thousands of high-paying jobs across Florida. CEO Eric Green unveiled the 'Jax Forward' blueprint at the 2026 State of the Ports address, spotlighting a transformative year that bolsters the state's logistics powerhouse status. From deeper harbors to greener cranes, these moves promise billions in economic firepower for Northeast Florida.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Orlando breaks tourism record as Universal, Disney fuel Central Florida boom
Orlando welcomed more than 75 million visitors in 2024, shattering tourism records as Universal's $7 billion Epic Universe and Disney's $60 billion expansion reshape the destination. The competition between theme park giants is driving longer stays, higher spending, and record hotel bookings across Central Florida.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Florida Tourism Hits 143.3M Visitors in 2025 as Cruise Boom Accelerates
Florida's tourism engine roared into 2025 with record-breaking momentum, welcoming 143.3 million visitors and generating $133.6 billion in economic impact as cruise bookings from Miami and Port Canaveral reached unprecedented levels. The surge, driven by a 13.9% explosion in cruise passenger arrivals, is positioning the state for another blockbuster year after shattering tourism records in 2024.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
UF Startups Deploy AI Drones to Battle Florida Citrus Greening
As Florida's citrus production hits its lowest in 80 years, University of Florida startups are fusing AI and aerospace tech for drone-based grove monitoring. This partnership aims to help growers detect and fight citrus greening faster amid the industry's $9 billion crisis. Hope is rising for the Sunshine State's iconic orange groves.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
USF CU’s No Hoops Checking Takes Center Ring
USF Federal Credit Union introduces "No Hoops Checking" in Odessa, offering residents a new banking option with no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Explore Electric Bikes: A Growing Trend in Odessa
Electric bikes are gaining traction in Odessa, offering residents a new and accessible way to commute, exercise, and explore the community.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Odessa Businesses Explore New Event Rental Systems
Odessa businesses are exploring new event rental systems to streamline operations and improve customer service for local events and gatherings.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Explore Electric Bikes: A Growing Trend in Odessa
Electric bikes are becoming a popular choice for Odessa residents seeking a convenient and enjoyable way to navigate the town and explore local trails.
Sunday, May 3, 2026