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5 Big Stories

By Jeff Harrington, Times Deputy Business Editor
Published March 4, 2007

1. Disney unveils grand vision

The Orlando theme park outlines plans to develop 1,350 acres.

WHAT IT MEANS: Look forward to the resort's first four-star hotel, the first single-family homes nestled inside Disney's footprint, budget hotels and a new retail/tourism district. After all that, Disney still has two-thirds of its acreage undeveloped.

2. The rate cuts are coming - sort of!

Regulators release a new formula for property insurers to use in setting rates.

WHAT IT MEANS Most insurance companies are expected to cut rates 24 percent on average statewide. But there's little to no effect on the two biggest insurers: State Farm and Citizens Property Insurance.

3. Markets plunge

Stock markets fall seven of the last eight sessions, highlighted by Tuesday's 416-point drop in the Dow.

WHAT IT MEANS: It was the worst week in four years for the Dow and S&P 500; the worst since the post-Sept. 11, 2001, trading week for Nasdaq. Investor confidence remains rattled.

4. Airport screening raises alarm

Congress considers legislation requiring a handful of airports to test screening all workers entering secure areas.

WHAT IT MEANS A battle is brewing between lawmakers concerned about lax security and airports that fear anything more than random checks could slow operations to a crawl.

5. Brandon mall makeover

Westfield Brandon mall opens 13 stores as part of a $60-million expansion.

WHAT IT MEANS: The 12-year-old regional center goes a bit more upscale as it entices visitors with new anchors Dick's Sporting Goods, Books-a-Million and Cheesecake Factory.

[Last modified March 2, 2007, 22:24:13]