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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 26, 2007

1. Gaming expansion faces new hurdle

Gov. Charlie Crist says he will seek legislative approval for any pact expanding the Seminole Tribe's gaming operation.

What it means: Under federal pressure, the state is crafting a plan to allow Las Vegas-style slot machines and table games such as blackjack on tribal lands. But legislators opposed to expanded gambling could scuttle a deal.

2. IPhone hack has global ripples

A teen hacker from New Jersey breaks the lock that ties Apple's iPhone to AT&T's wireless network.

What it means: Seventeen-year-old George Hotz quickly shared his hack through his blog, opening the door for U.S. consumers to use their iPhone on the networks of other carriers home and abroad.

3. America faces reverse brain drain

A study predicts a sharp decline in skilled immigrant scientists and engineers unless the government eases visa restrictions.

What it means: The report by the Kauffman Foundation is underscored by universities, including USF, which are seeing fewer international MBA students because they fear they won't be able to stay in the United States.

4. Online habits cut into TV time

A global IBM survey suggests the Internet is starting to edge out television as a draw for consumers' free time.

What it means: From sending e-mails to watching online videos to interacting with friends on MySpace, the Internet may have trumped TV as our primary source of entertainment.

5. Google Earth opens skies

A new feature using satellite imagery-based mapping lets users view the sky from their computers.

What it means: Take a virtual tour through galaxies with a click of the mouse. Will it fuel renewed interest in space exploration?

[Last modified August 24, 2007, 21:03:30]