"Bird Holocaust" and Economic Woes: Headlines from Florida

Strategic Insights -

The state of Florida is grappling with multiple issues, from the ongoing "bird holocaust" around Lake Apopka to economic struggles in the agricultural sector. The death toll of birds at the lake has risen to 800, with 300 more dead birds discovered, while tomato growers in South Florida are facing tough times due to high production costs. Meanwhile, a national study has listed Florida cities, including Tampa, Orlando, and Miami, among the top 7 for "road rage" deaths, and Universal Studios has sold the Wet 'n Wild water park chain to Ogden Corporation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The death toll of birds at Lake Apopka has risen to 800, with 300 more dead birds discovered, mostly white pelicans that had been feeding at the marsh created by the restoration of the lake.
  • Tomato growers in South Florida are facing economic struggles, with the cost of picking a 25-pound box of tomatoes being more than the price of buying a box of Mexican tomatoes wholesale.
  • South Florida growers are only picking twice a season instead of three or four times a season in previous years due to the economic constraints.
  • Universal Studios has sold the Wet 'n Wild water park chain to Ogden Corporation for an undisclosed price, except for the original Wet 'n Wild park in Orlando, which will remain part of Universal's entertainment empire.
  • A national study has listed Florida cities, including Tampa, Orlando, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale, among the top 7 for "road rage" deaths.
  • Joe Oliver, an Orlando athlete, is staking a claim for a roster spot on the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, having homered for the second time in three games.
  • Sergei Berezin scored twice to lead the Toronto Maple Leafs to an easy 6-to-1 win over the Lightning.
  • Bill Ranford, the Tampa Bay Goalie, was yanked after giving up four goals in the first period.

Statistics:

  • 800: The death toll of birds at Lake Apopka
  • 300: The number of additional dead birds discovered
  • 25 pounds: The weight of a box of tomatoes
  • 2 times: The number of times South Florida growers are picking tomatoes this season
  • 6 months: The time Universal Studios has owned the Wet 'n Wild water park chain
  • 2.6 billion dollars: The price of the Orlando Wet 'n Wild park
  • 8 deaths: The number of deaths in Florida caused by aggressive driving
  • 1: The margin of the Toronto Maple Leafs' win over the Lightning

Sources:

  • Second Florida Headlines
  • PALATKA
  • MIAMI
  • ORLANDO
  • TAMPA
  • COMTEX (http://www.comtexnews.com)