South Florida 100 Forum October 16

Rabbi Sheldon Harr, Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El

Last week: When Europe sits there bewildered at the American electoral process; when the so-called Banana Republics recognize their system in ours; when one of the candidates threatens to send his opponent to jail; when political rallies are reminiscent to some degree of Germany in the 1930’s; when those observations above and even more are occurring in the United States of America, we know that our very democracy is being challenged. Though certainly not exclusively but definitely applicable, if one is a “minority,” (religiously, racially, sexually, ethnically) the spectre of the outcome of this election is frightening. I trust, however, that the great bulk of Americans will come to their senses.

Clarence V. McKee, president, McKee Communications

Looking ahead: When it comes to the ballot proposal to raise the sales tax one penny — half for infrastructure and half for transportation — Broward voters should remember the saying “fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me.” They should recall what happened after they supported the $800 million school renovation program: mistakes, incompetence, schools still need repairs and students and teachers continue to suffer. The school board and superintendent said “Trust Us.” It’s really a shame when taxpayers can’t trust their government. They should send a message: “Respect Us” and soundly reject the tax increase.

Jason Joffe, business litigation partner, Squire Patton Boggs

Last week: Proofreading is tedious and difficult. And, no one is perfect. But, how is it possible that an error in the “penny sales tax” ballot wording was missed by the elections office? Is it even debatable that making sure the ballot is accurate is the single most important job the elections office has? Whether you are for or against the tax increase, I think we all agree that voters should be confident that their vote reflects their opinion. Hopefully, the outcome won’t be challenged in court, but I doubt it. Another sad and potentially wasteful chapter in an already controversial story.

Katy Sorenson, president, Good Government Initiative, University of Miami

Last week: At the first debate, Donald Trump raised our collective consciousness (for those of us who ARE conscious) about fat-shaming. Prior to the second debate, he reminded us that male sexual predators, like Trump supporters, live among us. In a PTSD way, he caused many women to remember their incidents – from merely unsavory to disturbing to violent. And for those men who objected to The Donald’s behavior on the basis that they had female relatives, please – spare us the chivalry. Most of us would like to be treated as fully human beings whether or not we’re attached to men.

Looking ahead: Thanks to federal judge Mark Walker for granting Floridians an extra week to register to vote, given the disruption of Hurricane Matthew. Our retro Governor Scott sought to fight it, but Judge Walker simply and eloquently stated that “the right to have a voice is the very reason for our country’s existence.” Unfortunately, all over the country, there are those who would cynically deprive citizens of this fundamental right by putting up obstacles and impediments. As this election cycle shows, citizens need to be informed (with real information) and engaged now more than ever.

Irela Bagué, president, Bagué Group

Last week: The second presidential debate gave us all a glimpse of what kind of future a Trump Presidency would bring: special prosecutions, imprisonments of opposition leaders, mass deportations and the threat of impromptu military attacks. My parents fled Cuba more than fifty years ago over similar actions by Castro’s regime.

Looking ahead: Although the wrath of Hurricane Matthew could have been much worse for the State of Florida, it serves as an example of how vulnerable our coastal areas are to storm surge and flooding. Sea level rise will only exacerbate the impacts of future storms. It is time to start investing and implementing adaptation solutions now. If we don’t, Florida’s economy goes out with the tide.

Joshua Thifault, Advancement Director, Turning Point USA

Last week: We used to look at America as the perfect example of democracy. We wanted to be like you. Not so much anymore.” Those words from my Nigerian friend cut deep. To many 2016 Americans, unconfirmed allegations matter more than confirmed crimes. This is utter madness. International corruption matters more than offensive sound bytes. The Clinton Foundation received donations from countries that persecute female and LGBT citizens. These countries gave to receive diplomatic favors. Regardless of political party, that should enrage us far more than the Billy Bush tape. America must once again focus on the real issues.

Mitch Ceasar, chairman, Broward Democratic Party

Last week: In life we meet a few extraordinary people. The recently passed Lt. Colonel Leo Gray of the Tuskegee Airman was just such a gentleman. Leo, a Coconut Creek resident, always maintained an inquisitive mind and a calm smile. We would talk of family and our shared love of “stuff.” That was a way to discuss memories. I think of his heroism during the war and life and realize the great courage and confidence that was necessary. I look at his photos on my wall and smile. That was another gift he gave. I will miss you my friend.

Michael De Lucca, president, Broward Regional Health Planning Council, Inc.

Last week: Because of Hurricane Matthew, Florida voter registration has been extended until Tuesday. Registering to vote takes approximately two minutes to complete, so go ahead and make your voice heard. It is important to have your opinion count and vote in this year’s election for not only the president, but also for important state and local officeholders. The local elections can affect individuals more directly including healthcare, public school control, security and more. We are fortunate enough to live in a country where we have the right to vote on issues that can impact the future.

Looking ahead: Every year, there are approximately 200,000 women diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States. Unfortunately, breast cancer is the most common cancer for American women ages fifty and older and about 40,000 women die each year from breast cancer. The month of October is dedicated to breast cancer to help increase knowledge of this disease. The CDC encourages women ages fifty to seventy-four to have mammogram screenings every two years for precaution. The DOH, CDC and other organizations are here to help anyone affected by this disease through early findings, education and support groups. Take responsibility and get screenings.

Marlon A. Hill, partner, Hamilton, Miller & Birthisel

Last week: District Court Judge Walker has reasserted our belief and hope in our democracy’s balance of powers. As our electoral air poisons itself, we are reminded that we possess the opportunity to exercise one single duty to maintain arm’s length distance between each branch. The extension of the voter registration deadline to Tuesday breathed life into a democracy floundering in the ICU. Hurricane Matthew repaired some damage after all. The irony.

Earl Maucker, commissioner, Lighthouse Point; former editor, Sun Sentinel

Last week: It took a federal judge to teach Gov. Rick Scott a lesson in the fundamentals of democracy this week. The court over ruled the governor who refused to extend voter registration even though Hurricane Matthew created a major disruption throughout the state. Apparently concerned that more Democrats than Republicans would take advantage of the extended time to sign up, Scott chose partisan politics over voter rights. The court extended the deadline to Tuesday. Floridians deserve better leadership from a governor who puts politics before integrity.

Gary Resnick, mayor, Wilton Manors

Last week: We held an event at Wilton Manors’ Stonewall Museum to commemorate National Coming Out Day. It was interesting to compare stories from “older” generations who lost jobs, support and contact with family when they came out as gay or lesbian years ago, with stories of 20-somethings, who were surprised that coming out to coworkers and family was a non-issue. We’ve come a long way to create an accepting society. But there’s still a long way to go (consider the candidate for Wilton Manors commission who’s saying vote for her because she’s straight), and let’s appreciate the struggle of those who paved the way.

Scott J. Israel, sheriff, Broward County

Last week: A potentially unspeakable tragedy was averted at a Broward County high school this week thanks to the heroic actions of students. After learning that a former student was on campus carrying a gun in his waistband, the alert teens informed the school resource officer who detained him. Officers also detained a friend of the suspect — a student at the school — who was carrying a journal detailing his desire to kill. This incident and those around the world are reminders that our own eyes and ears are our first and most important line of protection. If you see something, say something.

Paul Castronovo, host, Paul & Young Ron Show

Last week: “How’d you guys do during the hurricane?” “Did you survive?” “How’d your house hold up?” These are a few of the texts that I got following Hurricane Mathew. What they should’ve asked me was: “How’d your back hold up?” Folks, I have way too much stuff, that’s what I learned! Lawn furniture, plants, fishing gear, mounted fish, grills and more would up in my garage…and then back again. It’s time to purge, just like the Miami Dolphins are doing this year. Yes, it was a pain the neck to do all the work, but the alternative (a direct hit) could’ve been a disaster.

Looking ahead: Apparently, NOW is the best time to book holiday flights. According to experts, booking travel by the end of October snags you the lowest prices on airline tickets. Why can’t they visit us? If you must leave, the best day to fly is on Thanksgiving. What a great idea! The following is sarcasm: “Honey, let’s go up north and freeze, rush to the airport, wear winter coats, miss the parade, football games, and the turkey dinner and go visit your Mom, we’ll save a few bucks on a flight!” Sadly, I’m one of the poor slobs going up north, but I’d rather be in the Keys.

Steven Geller, former member, Florida Senate

Looking ahead: I don’t understand the conflicting positions taken by the news media as a whole in reference to the Wikileaks articles. U.S. intelligence agencies have stated that Russia hacked into Democratic files. The media has written how unacceptable it is that Russia is trying to influence U.S. elections by selectively leaking documents intended to be damaging to Hillary Clinton. Thereafter the media becomes an accomplice of Russia by carefully analyzing all of these unauthenticated leaked documents, and printing the ones that might be harmful to Hillary. This is akin to writing a story about blackmail, and then detailing the blackmail allegations. Shocking.

Dr. Michael Dennis, chairman, Florida Atlantic University Schmidt College of Medicine

Last week: Clearing the wreckage from Hurricane Matthew this week in Haiti must be gruesome. The death toll now exceeds 1,000 victims of falling trees, flying debris, and swollen rivers. Livestock and farm lands, precious assets for the natives, have been devastated. The image of an inadequately trained medical worker caring for over 40 injured – mostly children lying on cots – is heart wrenching. Many are developing fevers from cholera and other water-borne infections. The World Health Organization estimates that over 750,000 are medically endangered. Safe drinking water, food, and vaccinations are a high priority. With numerous international agencies pleading for assistance, please respond in caring for these wonderful neighbors.

Looking ahead: South Florida was indeed fortunate to have avoided the brunt of Hurricane Matthew’s wrath. Sighs of relief were heard throughout the region and echoed in the press. However, the horrible flood conditions in North Carolina with fatalities, severe property damage, and washed out roadways and train tracks should awaken us to the dire need for developing comprehensive mitigation and adaptation strategies here. We have large populations – in both upper/lower socioeconomic categories – highly vulnerable to sea level rise as well which increases the risk. Heavy rainfall would only complicate the situation leading to extremely serious medical problems such as pulmonary disease and water-borne infections. An ounce of prevention.

Tom Shea, president, Right Management

Last week: Though Hurricane Matthew spared much of South Florida, the loss of lives and devastating damage still being assessed in parts of Florida, other southern states and Haiti are somber reminders of storms past. While we’re powerless to change the course of a hurricane, we can take action in its aftermath. Even in small ways, helping victims cope with the storm’s devastation is one way to “fight back.”

Looking ahead: As more states, cities and counties adopt laws requiring companies to provide workers with sick leave, will Florida join the momentum? While many companies in our state provide sick days for employees as a basic, sound practice to consider employees’ needs and retain talent, it’s not required by state law. Watch the trend.

Chuck Shaw, chairman, Palm Beach County School Board

Last week: Hurricane Matthew may seem to have been a non-event for South Florida but I think it was a real wake up call. After the years we have dodged a storm we almost got a full dose. I was very impressed with the response form all the various players who really had their acts together. FPL is better prepared; news media on top; and most of us got our lives prepared. I only hope that the miss will not make anybody take the danger lightly. I have been here for over 60 years and seen them all. Never think we could not be as unfortunate as the Carolinas.

Looking ahead: Well, Hillary and Donald will continue the love fest of madness. Just think, one of them will really be president. I have no real idea what either will do; nor do I think either cares. In a hundred years historians will write about the most inept Presidential election in U.S. history. Or will they? It seems the base for each have dug in, totally supporting their candidates and not paying attention to the hatred and dysfunction around us. The American people have made it this far and I guess we can do it again.

J. David Armstrong, Jr., president, Broward College

Looking ahead: This is the time of year when many high school students apply for college and parents begin to count their pennies. Yet only 45 percent of students complete a free application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) while 90 percent who do apply receive aid and go to school. Even more concerning is that $2.7 billion in grants, work-study funds and loans was left on the table by not completing FASFA. Add that to Pell grant funding, private scholarships and other financial avenues and college can be affordable. Do your research to take advantage of every angle available – don’t leave any stone unturned.

Andrew Duffell, president, Research Park at Florida Atlantic University

Last week: All eyes are on the presidential election and oblivious to the fact that tensions with Russia have reached the most dangerous level since the end of the Cold War. Russia has placed nuclear capable missiles in Kaliningrad, its eastern European enclave and suggested it might re-activate its military activities in Cuba, among other provocative actions. Let’s hope that our military, intelligence and diplomatic assets are not as mesmerized as the rest of us by the political theater of the presidential race.

Looking ahead: Ballots that have already been mailed out ask voters to consider several amendments to the Florida constitution, some of them for worthy reasons. The bigger question is whether amending the constitution is the appropriate mechanism to achieve the aims being sought. Surely the constitution should set the broad parameters of state government, leaving rule-making to the Legislature.

Maria Sachs, member, Florida Senate

Last week: For those of us who call ourselves Floridians, Wilma Frances and Jeanne are not just storms — they are infamous names everyone in Florida can recognize. I think that Floridians are at their best before a storm hits, and Hurricane Matthew was no exception. In the face of this recent threat, our communities came together and we braced for landfall united as a single community. We are at our best when severe weather strikes. That is what it is to be a Floridian.

John “Jack” P. Seiler, mayor, Fort Lauderdale

Last week: Fort Lauderdale has just been named the 12th Best “Foodie” City in America. Experts at Wallethub analyzed 150 of the largest U.S. cities using 21 metrics ranging from cost of groceries to number of food festivals per capita. Our city received high marks for number of restaurants per capita; ratio of full-service restaurants to fast-food establishments; number of gourmet specialty-food stores; and number of coffee and tea shops. This outstanding national ranking recognizes our city’s wide and diverse selection of exciting, innovative, quality, and affordable food and dining options for our neighbors and visitors. Please read the full article at wallethub.com.

Looking ahead: On Thursday, Oct. 27, Fort Lauderdale will host the annual State of the City Address and Advisory Board Reception at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, located at 3109 East Sunrise Boulevard. The event will include a networking reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the A1A roadway project at 6:30 p.m. The State of the City Address will begin at 7 p.m. Please join us for what promises to be an informative evening as we review many of our accomplishments, and we look forward to exciting projects and programs that lie ahead. For details, please visit www.fortlauderdale.gov.

Richard Barkett, CEO, Greater Fort Lauderdale REALTORS

Looking ahead: Home prices have risen significantly with some neighborhoods up sharply and other markets showing a more subdued comeback. One outcome of the recovery in home values has been a rebuilding of home-equity wealth for homeowners. The difference between the value of one’s home and the amount of mortgage debt is home-equity. If you own your home free and clear of mortgage debt then the entire value of your home is your home-equity wealth. We believe the Home Price Index will rise another 5 percent, boosting home-equity wealth. This wealth gain should add to spending and contribute to economic growth in 2017.

Claudette Bruck, Realtor; former commissioner, Coral Springs

Last week: For most, homeownership is the path to accumulation of wealth. During our economic downturn many, if not most, lost much of the equity in their homes. Good news, however, home equity has increased significantly over the last five years. According to CoreLogic, homeowners experienced an average gain in equity of around $11,000 last year. It is expected that home equity gains will continue in the next year as the number of homeowners with negative equity declines. Let’s be cautious and let that growth in equity lead us to greater wealth.

Looking ahead: The presidential election…the presidential election…the presidential election.

Frank Ortis, mayor, Pembroke Pines

Last week: While many of us are tired of the political bickering and scandals involving our presidential candidates, having a voice in this upcoming election is critical. I was happy to hear that a federal judge extended voter registration until Tuesday for Floridians to register to vote, in light of the disruption and damage caused by Hurricane Matthew to our state. The six additional days will allow those who have not yet registered to do so. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this extension so that their voices are heard and their votes count.

Looking ahead: It looks like legal battles will continue regarding the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) controversial plan involving revised limits of chemicals in our waterways. An administrative law judge has refused to block the DEP’s plan, allowing the plan to move ahead. The Seminole Tribe of Florida was attempting to get at least a temporary halt to adoption of the new standards which many believe may expose Floridians to more cancer-causing toxins. Just because a known carcinogen is regulated doesn’t make it safe, and increasing levels of regulated chemicals is mind-boggling. Stop the legal wrangling and protect our health and environment.

Howard Simon, executive director, ACLU of Florida

Last week: We should be concerned about the damage that this ellection is inflicting on our democratic institutions and focus on how to repair them. The campaign seems to have been more about the character and fitness of the candidates than ideas for governing the country. It is hard to imagine that after the election the loser will say to his or her supporters, “I congratulate our President-Elect; we need to accept the legitimacy of this election and work with the new administration.” That this is hard to imagine now is evidence of long-term damage this election has inflicted on our democracy.

Looking ahead: Power outages, evacuations, and the governor’s declared state of emergency from Hurricane Matthew in the final days of voter registration threatened to shut thousands of Floridians out of our democratic process. This week, a thoughtful federal judge extended the registration deadline to make up for the disruption caused by the hurricane that forced many to focus on ensuring the safety of their families and homes. Of course, the governor could have done this himself without requiring a federal lawsuit, but didn’t. I hope that all eligible Floridians take advantage of this decision and register by the new Tuesday deadline.

Marty Kiar, commissioner, Broward County

Last week: The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is Broward County’s biggest economic engine. For the first time in FLL history, direct flights between FLL and the Middle East will be offered. Emirates Airlines, one of the world’s leading airlines, announced last week that it will start service in December 2016 between FLL and Dubai. FLL is one of only 11 U.S. cities served by Emirates Airlines. The inclusion of FLL into Emirates Airlines elite service is a strong indication that FLL continues to be one of America’s premier airports.

Walter G. “Skip” Campbell, Jr., mayor, Coral Springs; former member, Florida Senate

Last week: I really enjoy seeing Donald Trumps commercials where he tells us that he is going to dramatically reduce our taxes. I am sure there are many people who believe this rhetoric. The problem is that he needs the Senate and Congress to pass these cuts. He might have a tough sell when he ridicules John McCain and Paul Ryan and others that actually have the power to accomplish these tax cuts.

Daniel Cane, President and CEO, Modernizing Medicine

Last week: I could talk politics, but instead I’ll go with Hurricane Matthew as the big story of the past week. South Florida was incredibly fortunate to have been spared the hurricane’s wrath and our hearts go out to others who weren’t as lucky, both in the United States and abroad. I’ve lived in South Florida most of my life and have been through a number of storms, and I hope that the next time around our residents are equally as diligent in preparations to ensure their safety.

Looking ahead: As the vice chair of the Florida Atlantic University Board of Trustees, I’m incredibly proud that Florida Atlantic University athletics is supporting Susan G. Komen South Florida and breast cancer awareness this October. Modernizing Medicine is a sponsor of this initiative and you’ll see our team supporting the FAU women’s soccer and volleyball teams on October 16 and 21, respectively. We hope to see you out there!

Howard Finkelstein, chief public defender, Broward County

Last week: Local efforts to close the pipeline from schools to jail have significantly reduced the number of children in the juvenile justice system. Last week, more law enforcement agencies joined the P.R.O.M.I.S.E. program and pledged to keep kids in school instead of arresting them for minor infractions committed in school. The program abandons the school board’s backward “zero tolerance” philosophy that brought so many of our children into the system, branded them and destroyed their futures. That philosophy failed the kids and our community. We need to deal with bad behavior in the schools instead of throwing our kids away.

Chip LaMarca, member, Broward County Commission

Last week: Last week we were spared the devastating damage from Hurricane Matthew. Fortunately Broward County resident’s prepared themselves to stay safe during dangerous storm conditions. I want to personally thank the team at the Broward County’s Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) that took time to protect a historical gem that is very important to me, our Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum at FLL. It is great to know that in a time of great uncertainty we can count on the help of good-natured people to help protect our community’s aviation and military history.

Looking ahead: Looking ahead Broward County will be welcoming Emirates Airlines to the growing list of international flights that Broward County’s Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) has to offer. Emirates Airlines will start service on Dec. 15 between Dubai and Fort Lauderdale. Being voted as the 2016 World’s Best Airline in Skytrax World Airline Awards, it is wonderful news to be able to provide a magnificent service to residents and tourists in Broward County. Emirates Airlines serves only eleven U.S. cities, including FLL, making our Broward County another exclusive point of destination for travelers all around the world.

Hava Leipzig Holzhauer, regional director, Florida Anti-Defamation League

Last week: Yom Kippur is a time for serious reflection. Some words of hope for the coming year: May it be a year filled with strength, renewed hope, patience, repairs and beginnings. May we maintain and regain a thirst for knowledge and truth and seek such. May we see the value in each and every person including in ourselves. May we make space for varied viewpoints. May we love better. May we give and be open to receiving more. May we show understanding. May we live in integrity with ourselves. And may we open the door wide to possibility in everything.

Ina Lee, president Travelhost Elite of Greater Fort Lauderdale

Last week: We truly are becoming a world-class destination with the announcement of Emirates airline to begin daily service between our Fort Lauderdale airport and Dubai International Airport beginning in December. This will be the first non-stop route to the Middle East and positions us to bring new visitors to our destination.

Looking ahead: The election for president has become a disgrace to our nation. Regardless of whom you are supporting, the ugliness of what is being aired on traditional and social media is embarrassing and undignified. Yes, the issues are critically important to our country’s future but the election name calling offends the dignity of the human spirit.

Kathleen Cannon, president, United Way of Broward County

Looking ahead: Everyone loves a feel good story, right? I encourage you to tune into “The Hero Effect” airing on the OWN Network on November 12 at 10 a.m. United Way was chosen among hundreds of submissions to participate in the docuseries which will spotlight ordinary folks making an extraordinary difference. Stephen Moss is a partner at Holland & Knight and the founding chair of United Way’s veteran re-acclimation initiative MISSION UNITED. Because of his hard work and the support of the community, MISSION UNITED has served more than 4,000 local veterans. Please tune in to see Broward County on the national stage.

Bernie Fernandez Jr., M.D., CEO, Baptist Health Medical Group

Last week: Before, during and after a statewide emergency, like Hurricane Matthew, hospitals play a key role in our communities. At Baptist Health, our emergency preparations are ongoing. We regularly drill to strengthen our ability to care for the sick and injured during a storm. When a storm’s impact is imminent, we shelter pregnant women and people dependent on electricity for medical equipment. Following a storm, we work with community leaders to help our neighbors – providing meals for first responders, bottled water and ice, etc. Our focus is preparedness before, safety during and restoration after.

Dr. Eduardo J. Padrón, president, Miami Dade College

Last week: It’s been another week during which MDC has had a front row seat to history in the making and the democratic process. Secretary Clinton made a stop at our Kendall Campus along with former Vice President Al Gore. This comes within two weeks of MDC visits by Donald Trump and Tim Kaine. In fact, MDC has hosted every major candidate during this historic election cycle. In addition, the college held major voter registration drives through the deadline, which was extended, to vote in the November General Election. Once again we had a significant number of students register.

Looking ahead: Fall is finally in the air. We have awakened to some cooler mornings with lower humidity. About time. Fall also means it is Miami Book Fair time at Miami Dade College, the nation’s largest and finest literary gathering. Mark your calendars Nov. 13 – 20.

Dr. Steven Ronik, CEO, Henderson Behavioral Health

Last week: October 10 was World Mental Health Day. World Mental Health Day is celebrated in over 150 Nations, promoting global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against stigma. In the United States, one in five Americans suffer from a mental health condition. Stigma has been gradually eroding, as millennials, especially, talk more openly about mental illnesses, recognizing there should be no difference in discussing mental health conditions versus any other illness. Even closer to home, we have had local champions “get out in front” of the need to promote mental health awareness. Furthermore, here at Henderson Behavioral Health, we are having our credentialed Mental Health First Aid Instructors train the larger community in how to handle a mental health crisis and apply first aid, just as we would for any other illness or injury.

Mike Ryan, mayor, Sunrise

Last week:At the municipal level, preparations for Hurricane Matthew began even before storm warnings were issued. Then, as the storm approached, employees across all departments left their families and loved ones to be ready to help our families. We must also acknowledge the service of the municipal employee families and loved ones who, in times of a major storm, kiss their loved one goodbye and are left at home. We focus on our preparations knowing there will be many ready to help us in times of crisis. Thank you to the families for their sacrifice and the employees who stood ready.

Looking ahead: The City of Sunrise is working with the National Scholastic Chess Foundation to form The Sunrise Center of Excellence in Chess. The city commission recognizes that chess is a profoundly effective tool to teach critical thinking skills to the young, to keep minds sharp for the young at-heart and for competitive economic and workforce development. Thinking before you act and identifying consequences is a life lesson. Supporting broad based community chess is not about trophies; it is about smarter doctors, engineers, scientists, and leaders for the challenges we face. Now, we will bring chess to every corner of the community.

Robert Weinroth, Deputy Mayor, Boca Raton

Last week: It was a good news, bad news week for Samsung, Apple and consumers. With the Samsung Galaxy Note7 now being unceremoniously tossed into the recycle bin, consumers are less likely to have their cell phones catching fire. With the decision to abandon the Galaxy Note7, Apple’s just released iPhone 7 will likely be the beneficiary of Samsung’s troubles. But even Apple didn’t have the best of weeks as it appears the Supreme Court of the United States has misgivings about the $399 million judgment Apple won against Samsung for copyright infringement, not believing Apple is due such a large payday.

Looking ahead: Absentee (Vote by Mail) ballots have arrived. With that, we can finally see the end of the current election cycle. No matter your party, this has not been pleasant and Nov. 8th cannot come soon enough. Early voting will begin on Oct. 24 in Broward and Palm Beach County from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. at 15 polling stations in PBC and 22 in Broward. With a 3-4 page ballot awaiting voters, take advantage of these alternates to dealing with the lines and, perhaps, weather on Nov. 8th. Not voting is not an alternative. Down ballot contests and questions also demand your attention.