Identifying Local Opportunities

1. Can't Find a Bike? Local Stores Not Expecting Restock Until October
https://www.firstcoastnews.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/cant-find-a-bike-local-stores-not-expecting-restock-until-october/77-9a4f220c-9e03-4887-acc5-74f313c9e9ca
After the COVID-19 pandemic caused local gyms to shut down, a sudden surge of interest in cycling has begun to emerge. Bike shops in Arlington and Avondale have seen a remarkable increase in business, causing these shops to ultimately run low on inventory. Beach cruisers have been particularly in high demand, and local bike shops estimate that inventory might not be restocked until October. In addition to the lack of inventory available, there is also a long wait---approximately four to six weeks---for bike repairs. The problem presented in this story is that many local stores have sold their existing inventory, preventing consumers from being able to readily purchase a bike during the pandemic. Thus, the individuals who have this problem are all local residents seeking to purchase a bike at an in-store shop in Northeast Florida.

2. 3 in Hospital After Roofer Gets Struck by Lightning in Middleburg
https://www.firstcoastnews.com/article/weather/severe-weather/3-in-hospital-after-being-struck-by-lightning-in-middleburg-fire-crews-say/77-e8a0cb58-481e-49e4-a07b-dde886bac029
Three roofers were were transported to the hospital after a lightning strike in Middleburg. One worker was directly struck while on top of a roof and went into cardiac arrest, causing paramedics to perform CPR before transporting the man to a local trauma center. Two others were also transported to the hospital after they experienced minor injuries from falling off the roof. The problem presented in this story is that roofers are susceptible to lightning strikes and other potential injuries during hazardous weather conditions. This is because lightning tends to strike taller objects (i.e. roofs). Thus, the individuals who have this problem are all roofers who construct or repair roofs as their occupation.

3. Reopening Jacksonville: Buffet Restaurants Struggle to Recover From COVID-19
https://www.jacksonville.com/entertainment/20200525/reopening-jacksonville-buffet-restaurants-struggle-to-recover-from-covid-19
Local buffets have been able to survive the mandatory shutdown due to COVID-19, but these restaurants fear that federal reopening recommendations will put them out of business. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recommended that self-serve food services are ended, causing Arden's Kountry Kafe & Katering to question the longevity of their business in Northeast Florida. While switching to a cafeteria-style restaurant may be feasible for big chain restaurants like Golden Corral, this does not seem applicable to local buffets. The problem presented in this story is that federal regulations have caused local self-serve restaurants to fear the future outlook of their business. Thus, the individuals who have this problem are all owners of local buffet-styled restaurants.

4. Coronavirus: Third JTA Bus Driver Tests Positive for COVID-19
https://www.jacksonville.com/news/20200523/coronavirus-third-jta-bus-driver-tests-positive-for-covid-19
One day after working a day-long shift, a JTA bus driver confirmed positive for COVID-19. The employee experienced symptoms and sought medical treatment at UF Health. This has been the third confirmed case among bus drivers in Jacksonville since April. Employees who have tested positive have been informed that they will not be allowed to return to work until evidence of negative test results are provided. The problem presented in this story is that bus drivers are being exposed to many people, increasing their risk of contracting COVID-19. Thus, the individuals who have this problem are all bus drivers and public servants who are in constant contact with people.

5. Coronavirus: Wedding Industry Takes a Hit From COVID-19
https://www.jacksonville.com/news/20200519/coronavirus-wedding-industry-takes-hit-from-covid-19
The recent developments with COVID-19 has caused a major disruption to the wedding industry and this impact has been particularly noticeable in Northeast Florida. Various vendors have experienced mass cancellations, which has ultimately resulted in a total loss of income. Some Jacksonville-based wedding vendors initially viewed 2020 to be the biggest year ever with many couples viewing the digits "2020" with superstition. However, with crowd restrictions and social distancing measures that have been put in place, wedding vendors have found themselves selling off inventory and shutting doors to rental companies in attempt to minimize losses. The problem presented in this story is that wedding vendors in Northeast Florida have been struggling to stay afloat amidst the current pandemic. Thus, the individuals who have this problem are all owners and employees in the wedding industry.