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5 Big Stories: The Week in Business

A look back at the week in Business

By Jeff Harrington, Times Deputy Business Editor
Published August 12, 2007

1. Fed tries to calm markets

The Federal Reserve pumped $38-billion into volatile financial markets Friday.

What it means: So far, so good. The Fed helped soothe markets that have been jittery over holders of mortgage securities. But Monday is another day.

2. Bolts get new owner

Detroit billionaire Bill Davidson sells the Tampa Bay Lightning to an eclectic investment group.

What it means: Can a Hollywood producer, a fired hockey coach and a Florida developer make the Lightning profitable? Their first step - moving to the Tampa Bay area - doesn't hurt.

3. Publix dishes out free antibiotics

The Lakeland grocer allows customers free, 14-day supplies for seven commonly prescribed antibiotics.

What it means: The program could help drive traffic into Publix stores, but it lost some luster when Publix simultaneously stopped matching Wal-Mart's well-publicized deal of $4 for a 30-day supply of 143 generics.

4. Workplace fatality figures drop

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a small drop in workplace deaths nationally (0.5 percent) and a much larger drop in Florida (12.5 percent).

What it means: Construction work remains the most common source of deaths, but like many categories, it's improving.

5. McDonald's can trick the taste buds

Preschoolers in a study preferred carrots, milk and even apple juice in the familiar Golden Arches packaging instead of unmarked wrappers.

What it means: Never underestimate the power of advertising.

[Last modified August 10, 2007, 23:16:49]