SUMMARY: Google is discontinuing some of its diversity hiring targets, following a trend among U.S. companies scaling back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This change, communicated to employees, aligns with an executive order from President Trump targeting federal contractors’ DEI programs. Google’s parent company, Alphabet, also adjusted its annual report language, removing commitments to DEI, and noted ongoing evaluations due to recent court decisions. Despite prior efforts to increase representation, Google has seen limited progress in diversity within its leadership, with Black and Latino leaders remaining underrepresented. Other major companies have similarly revised their DEI commitments.

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SUMMARY: St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch urged the Tampa Bay Rays to either accept a previously negotiated stadium deal or walk away. During his state of the city address, he emphasized the importance of the agreement for a new park in the Gas Plant District, signed in July, with the team committing $700 million, scheduled to open in 2029. Welch stressed readiness to adapt if the Rays choose not to proceed, noting the project’s impact and the city’s ability to explore other options. The project faces delays due to Hurricane Milton, with the Rays temporarily playing at George Steinbrenner Field in 2025.

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SUMMARY: Disney reported strong first-quarter earnings of $2.55 billion, or $1.40 per share, significantly exceeding last year’s $1.91 billion and analyst forecasts of $1.44 per share. Revenue increased 5% to $24.69 billion, driven by a 9% rise in the Entertainment segment and a 34% surge in content sales/licensing, thanks to “Moana 2.” Disney+ saw a slight increase in U.S. subscribers but a 2% drop internationally, with a projected decline in Q2. The Experiences division remained flat at $3.11 billion amid challenges from hurricanes. Disney anticipates high-single digit EPS growth for fiscal 2025, with shares inching upward.

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