Local Business
Monday, May 4, 2026 · Saint Cloud
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.
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.
Monday, May 4, 2026
Orlando Office Vacancies Hit 8% Low as Tech Surge Fuels Demand
Central Florida's office market is booming with vacancy rates dropping to 8% amid a tech expansion led by giants like EA Sports. Class A spaces are in hot demand, signaling a robust recovery for Orlando's commercial real estate. Local expansions and leasing activity point to sustained growth through 2026.
Monday, May 4, 2026
PortMiami Crushes Q1 2026 Passenger Record, Fuels Miami Boom
PortMiami welcomed over 1.2 million cruise passengers in the first quarter of 2026, shattering records and injecting a 15% tourism surge into South Florida's economy. From megaships like Icon of the Seas to new arrivals, the 'Cruise Capital of the World' is busier than ever. Local businesses from Miami Beach to the Design District are reaping the rewards.
Monday, May 4, 2026
Publix Surges Ahead: 2026 Florida Expansion Unveils Mega Stores, Jobs Boom
Publix Super Markets is charging into 2026 with a flurry of new Florida stores, from a towering Mega Publix in North Miami to amenity-packed locations in St. Augustine and beyond. These openings promise hundreds of jobs and economic lifelines for booming communities. As the Lakeland-based chain cements its Sunshine State dominance, residents gear up for fresher groceries and fuller shelves.
Monday, May 4, 2026
Saint Cloud's Best Burger Poll Results: Community's Choice Crowns Top Picks in Epic Tie!
Discover the results of Saint Cloud's Community's Choice poll for the best burger! In a fun tie with zero votes, McDonald's leads the pack, followed by Beef N' Buns and Culver’s. Explore top rankings and why these spots shine in our local burger scene.
Monday, May 4, 2026
Saint Cloud's Best Burger Revealed: Community's Choice Poll Results!
Discover the results of Saint Cloud's Community's Choice poll for the best burger! McDonald's, Beef N' Buns, and Culver’s tie for top spots in this fun, low-turnout showdown. Explore the full rankings and why these spots rule the local burger scene.
Monday, May 4, 2026
Saint Cloud's Best Burger Showdown: Community's Choice Poll Ends in a Mouthwatering Tie!
Discover the results of Saint Cloud's Community's Choice poll for the best burger, ending in an epic tie among favorites like McDonald's, Beef N' Buns, and Culver’s. Celebrate the diverse burger scene in our vibrant community!
Monday, May 4, 2026