South Florida 100 Forum February 5

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

Last week: In a week consumed by a controversial travel ban, opposition to some of the President’s nominees, and continued protests, our nation and City suffered a tremendous loss when Chief Special Warfare Operator William “Ryan” Owens, a highly decorated Navy SEAL, was killed during a counterterrorism raid in Yemen. Ryan, 36, had a special connection to Fort Lauderdale as his father is a retired officer from our Police Department. Ryan’s death reminds us that we must never forget the supreme sacrifice made by our soldiers who put themselves in harm’s way to protect the freedoms and liberties we so often take for granted. Please keep Ryan and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Looking ahead: Please join us on Wednesday, February 8 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at City Hall for Neighbor Support Night. The annual event is a great way for neighbors to meet elected officials and city staff, build community, elevate public spirit, and promote civic engagement all in a casual fun block party atmosphere. Neighbor Support Night will feature an array of programs and activities including: a free tree giveaway, photos with Florida Panthers’ mascot Stanley C. Panther, live demonstrations from our Police and Fire-Rescue departments, a Kids Zone, plus games, prizes, free giveaways, entertainment and refreshments. For details, please visit www.fortlauderdale.gov.

Mitchell W. Berger, founder and co-chair, Berger Singerman

Last week: As a Nation we suffered the loss of a Navy Seal in Yemen .His name was Ryan Owens. If the United States continues to pursue a foreign and domestic policy of America First and a America Alone we must be prepared to examine the consequence of that policy and whether it will have the results of us mourning more like Ryan Owens. Today , many like Ryan are fighting side by side with Iraqi Muslim soldiers against Isis. We should not be surprised if Muslims who cherish liberty and freedom in Yemen assisted our Navy Seals in the raid in which Ryan lost his life. Banning those who assist us , and their children, who flee death and destruction cannot be beneficial to those who are replacing Ryan on the front lines.

Looking ahead: Merrick Garland played the leading role in prosecuting and bringing to justice the domestic terrorists who blew up the federal building in Oklahoma City. He is a patriot who has given his life to our country. He was treated with disrespect by our political leaders who let his nomination for the Supreme Court lapse without a hearing or a vote for almost a year. This is not the way we should treat people who have given us their all. As we approach the nomination of Judge Gorsuch, let us think about how to remember what happened to Judge Garland. A simple and heartfelt apology from those who treated him despicably might be a good start.

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

Last week: The Civil War is in the past, but our divisions have never been more prominent, exacerbated by our Divider-in-Chief. The week has been a flurry of manic activity from the Oval office – from the illegal, unconstitutional and immoral Muslim ban – which has cruelly and unnecessarily disrupted the lives of innocent people, along with risking our safety — to the nomination of an extremely conservative white man for the Supreme Court, a nomination that rightfully belonged to President Obama. The Democrats need to learn from Senate Leader Mitch McConnell – delay, resist and make this guy a one-term president. If that.

Looking ahead: Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez was wrong to so quickly capitulate to Trump’s executive order to honor immigration detentions from federal authorities or lose federal funding. Not so fast! San Francisco is taking the lead to sue to challenge Trump, and more will certainly follow. The mayor needs to explain to his former golfing buddy — now our president — that selling out our immigrants, who provide much of our community’s labor and taxes, is unacceptable. And if he doesn’t get that, join San Francisco in its lawsuit.

Philip Purcell, CEO/president, Marine Industries Association of South Florida

Last week: The marine industry is traditionally a proud supporter of national security efforts conducted by agencies such as the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and the U.S. Coast Guard, and does not take for granted the safe and secure borders we currently enjoy. As such, we maintain a long-standing professional relationship with vessels from worldwide ports of call and rely on the business they bring to our area. We will be watching diligently for any unintended consequences of border protection that negatively impact visiting vessels and our ability to continue to maintain our business operations.

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

Last week: Buried beneath the massive media coverage of the fierce turmoil in Washington over nominations and executive orders is a very disturbing observation. In complete defiance of the Nuclear Deal of 2015, Iran has launched yet another ballistic missile in experimenting with potential weapon delivery. Our side has lifted sanctions and freed frozen assets for their use, expecting reciprocal compliance. They have disregarded any obligation and, in fact, still fill the streets with “Death to America” demonstrations. One missile carried the label: Israel must be wiped out. No wonder Defense Secretary Mattis identifies Iran as the greatest threat to peace and stability in the Near East and beyond.

Looking ahead: The following is a nonpartisan, unsolicited recommendation to President Trump how to introduce major policy changes with less public confusion and frustration – using the immigration ban as an example. First, don’t make the announcement late Friday as governmental agencies shut down. That leaves the weekend for fear-filled demonstrations. Far better to wait until the first of the week, preferably with your new Secretary of State and Homeland Security Chief at your side, then explain in specific detail how the ban has received extensive discussion and planning, is temporary, preparatory for more efficient vetting, and affects all travelers from the identified countries – not just Muslims. Inform. Don’t alarm.

Barbara M. Sharief, mayor, Broward County

Looking ahead: It’s been one month since five people lost their lives and six others were shot by a gunmen who had murder on his mind when he arrived in Fort Lauderdale. We must remember the victims, their families, friends and loved ones. We join them in the struggle of moving forward as we return to the new “normal.” I would like to see gun transport and carrying laws changed, a review of security options, enhanced communication technology and a laser focus on identifying people who pose a threat to our communities. We must return to solid ground.

Gary Resnick, mayor, Wilton Manors

Last week: Like so many, we have not watched the news much since the election, expecting the worst. One tidbit that sneaked in is that on Day 1, the White House took down the LGBT page on the website. Why? Do we no longer exist? We always believed in making our little corner of the world as great as possible and watch it expand, and this worked as more and more communities around the country embraced the ideals of Wilton Manors. It looks like the opposite is happening with intolerance forcing its way in.

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

Last week: With all the noise in our current media environment from recent presidential executive actions, it is critical that we verify messages received online, in social media or via text messages to separate fact vs fiction. These viral messages at times cause tremendous stress and anxiety within our communities. We are each responsible as citizens to ensure that we are not only following the development of the law, but also making the extra effort to inform ourselves. You should not rely solely on the voices of spokespersons or pundits in cable news for your only source of information. Whether it is a fact or an alternative version of a fact, take some time to research before forwarding into the universe.

Kathleen Cannon, president, United Way of Broward County

Last week: In the past half century, suicide rates tripled among youth and teenagers; peaking among adolescent females. Broward high school students have reported higher rates of depression and thoughts of suicide than students in the rest of the state. In a recent survey, at least 16.8% of high school students had considered suicide in the last year. One of the major risk factors of suicide could be attributed to lack to mental health treatment access or reluctance by parents/physicians to address depression in adolescents. Reducing stigma around mental health and ensuring access to adequate services is vital to reducing suicide rates.

Jennifer O’Flannery Anderson, VP/community relations, Nova Southeastern

Looking ahead: So we know that Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on Feb 2nd. So that means six more weeks of winter. For us that is extra great news. Wonderful weather in the best place in the United States.

Irela Bagué, president, Bagué Group

Last week: Governor Rick Scott made a significant investment of $794 Million in water protection and infrastructure for the State of Florida. Specifically, appropriations for construction of the C-51 Reservoir project in Palm Beach County and provided significant funding for other alternative water supply projects throughout Florida. As a former water manager, I am pleased that the Governor has taken proactive steps to ensuring that adequate funding go towards water. These funds will not only help grow our economy but will ensure a sustainable and affordable supply of water for future generations. Investing in our most valuable resource makes good business sense.

Looking ahead: Following a tense week of contentious executive orders, protests from coast to coast and audacious tweets from the President, we finally get a day to enjoy a tradition that should bring the country some much-needed distraction. Super Bowl LI provides us all the opportunity to put aside our differences, root for our favorite team, enjoy friends and family and simply just be Americans.

Sheldon Harr, founding rabbi emeritus, Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El

Last week:There has been a chill in the South Florida air, and it has little to do with the weather. In fact, there is a chill and perhaps even a deep freeze, in cities and states throughout our country. When the press is told to shut up and listen; when an entire people who are residents of an entire country are declared persona non grata; when International Holocaust Day is observed and the Jewish People, against whom the Holocaust was primarily directed, aren’t even mentioned; when friends and family members are hesitant to discuss with each other matters of national concern; the indeed there is a chill in the air. As the Tweeter-In-General might say: “How sad!” Yes, indeed, how very sad.

Looking ahead: This week we find on the Jewish liturgical calendar a holiday called Tu B’Shvat. It is the environmental festival par excellence. Respecting the globe we share together, this universal holiday may speak to us even more poignantly than it did when first recorded as a festival thousands of years ago. While some maintain that it isn’t so, the reality of climate change, significantly impacted by the way in which we treat our environment, is real. Celebrating this ancient holiday which notes our participation in the ongoing existence of the world as we know it, we should use this holiday to be aware of our responsibilities and our ability to make a difference if we so choose.

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

Last week: National researchers say that we look at our phones on average 190 times per day. This shows that we are addicted to this machine. Researchers are indicating that we need to figure out what downtime is and how to disconnect from technology throughout the day. While you are eating dinner with your friends and family, put your phone down and enjoy the company. Your texts, calls and emails can all wait. Be engaged with each other and have a good conversation. Let’s all work together on breaking the habit and enjoying the in person conversations!

Looking ahead: The Patriots are the most disliked team for the second year in a row. The Falcons are only a three-point underdog with Matt Ryan coming off his best season ever. The 2016 football season will be remembered as one of the greatest seasons for Ryan and his Falcons. The Falcons have a hot offense and a superb defense. Ryan will outplay Brady, and exploit the Pat’s defense, which hasn’t been tested in a long time. It seems the world is cheering for the underdog Falcons. Should be a “Super” Super Bowl.

Linda B. Carter, president, Community Foundation of Broward

Last week:It’s that time of year and they seem to be everywhere. Girl Scouts selling cookies. Don’t deny yourself those tasty treats. Girl Scouting develops leadership and life skills in young girls that will last a lifetime. The Girl Scout law includes concepts we all hold dear such as being courageous, caring, and responsible to make the world a better place. Having been a Brownie and Girl Scout for many years, it made an impact on me. It’s worth the extra calories to help create our future leaders… there is a box of thin mints with your name on it somewhere.

Cindy Arenberg Seltzer, president, Children’s Services Council of Broward County

Last week: Pools, ocean, ponds, lakes, canals – they are all bodies of water that can be dangerous to our children when unattended, even for a split second. My heart broke recently when I read headlines about a one-year-old in Sunrise who apparently drowned in a bathtub. My condolences go out to this family, and I implore Broward parents, caretakers and community leaders to share the safety tips on WaterSmartBroward.org with family, friends and neighbors. Thousands of residents are learning child water safety and safe sleep practices through the #SaferBy4 campaign, but the outreach must be constant if we are to make a difference.

Ted Deutch, member, U.S. House of Representatives

Last week: Standing on the steps of the Supreme Court with hundreds of my House and Senate Democratic colleagues and thousands of passionate citizens, we called for President Trump to rescind his executive order barring all refugees and people from certain Muslim countries from our country. Instead of making our country safer, it jeopardizes our security coordination with allies. It is unconstitutional and un-American, and I have cosponsored legislation to revoke and defund this order. Closing our doors to children fleeing horrific violence does not make us safer; it degrades our values.

Looking ahead: I will return to Washington with a renewed focus on the pervasive hunger problem in America, an issue that over 43 million Americans struggle with every day. Here in Florida, over three million residents have limited or unreliable access to quality, nutritious food and over 3.2 million rely on SNAP benefits to put food on the table. South Florida recently hosted a traveling exhibit hosted by MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger that shows the scope of hunger in our country and what we can all do to take action to end hunger.

Archbishop Thomas Wenski, Archdiocese of Miami

Last week: “Sen. Anitere Flores (R-Miami) and Rep. Larry Ahern (R-Seminole) are sponsoring bills SB 196 and HB 205 to ensure that all children in Florida receive equal access to civil citations, rather than arrest, when committing first-time, nonviolent misdemeanors. Juvenile civil citations serve as an alternative to criminal arrest and provide a second chance to youth who make mistakes while still holding them accountable for their actions. Such diversion programs also benefit society by reducing crime, saving the state money and helping build a productive citizenry.
“

Looking ahead: In the Florida House, Representative David Santiago (R-Deltona) has filed a bill (HB 427) that requires the state to withdraw from the federally-funded refugee program by December 31, 2017. This would require the federal government to transfer program coordination to a private agency or agencies. Restructuring this important program at a time of such policy upheaval at the federal level will only exacerbate the strain to providers with a potentially negative impact on refugees, Cubans and other new arrivals, and also on the communities welcoming them.

Mary Riedel, president, Women in Distress of Broward County

Last week: February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Dating abuse is pervasive yet preventable. It is estimated that 1.5 million high school students nationwide will suffer physical abuse at hands of a a partner. Our teens here in South Florida among those affected, putting them at higher risk for more violence, substance abuse and other health issues. There are ways to learn and help. Go to www.womenindistress.org

Frank Ortis, mayor, Pembroke Pines

Looking ahead: More than 16 million people reportedly will call in sick tomorrow, the day after Super Bowl Sunday, costing our country approximately $1 billion in lost productivity. So, there are now petitions going around asking for the day to be a national holiday called “Smunday.” A large food company has even launched a campaign to push the idea. I’m all for Super Bowl parties and love watching the game, the half time show and commercials, but I’m not for creating another holiday. City hall will be open and I will be at work on Monday. Pull yourselves together, people.

Mike Ryan, mayor, Sunrise

Last week: Sunrise hosted a tri-county “Safe Streets Summit” drawing Metropolitan Planning Organizations, elected officials, planners and those interested in dealing with difficult and challenging transit topics, including bike and pedestrian strategies to reduce deaths, improve our community lifestyle and inspire economic investment. With an estimated 300 in attendance, the two day conference offered best practices, debate on strategies and examples of success here and around the world. The take-away: what we face is not novel and available and proven strategies can make a difference if we have the courage to commit to a longer term vision towards demonstrated successes.

Looking ahead: As a first generation American, I am the product of “economic refugees”. Also, my sisters are “refugees” from a worn torn country bearing a country legacy and a certain look that caused some to prejudicially label them; they are fantastic examples of the American dream. Banning indefinitely all women and children “humanitarian refugees”, despite years of vetting, undermines our intellect and capacity for compassion and is based upon paranoia rather than deliberative thoughtful public policy. We also provide support for an indictment by those who seek to radicalize here and abroad based upon our prejudicial labeling and lack of compassion.

Anthony Abbate, Florida Atlantic University, Associate Provost, Broward

Last week:Trump’s order temporarily bars entry to citizens of seven Muslim-majority nations. As newsmakers rush to spread the latest about this and other changes information from both extremes reads more like agitation-propaganda than actual news. It’s important to decipher what’s expected from a conservative administration and what challenges our constitution. Maybe best to adopt a “wait and see” attitude. Brazilian Fernando Sabino and others variously said: “in the end everything will be OK, and if its not OK, it’s not yet the end.” Missing from the list: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt and Lebanon – homelands of the 9-11 hijackers.

Looking ahead:Look for follow up to the victories for solar energy in Florida last fall. While Florida has yet to come up with a renewable energy standard (RES), to develop the solar energy resources of the Sunshine State, solar energy cooperatives organized by Florida Solar United Neighborhoods (FLSUN) – supported by the League of Women Voters – have been formed throughout the state, including two in Broward County. The co-op takes advantage of a bulk purchase program the county approved last October under a “Go SOLAR Florida” agreement with the Department of Energy enabling discounts for residents to purchase rooftop solar.

Richard Barkett, CEO, Greater Fort Lauderdale REALTORS

Last week:The percentage of U.S. households who find their water bill unaffordable could triple over the next five years according to a new study by Michigan State University. Further complicating the issue, water companies may face a surge in defaulting bills that will make it difficult for them to cover their costs, which will lead to even higher bills to customers. If costs continue to escalate, a third of the population won’t be able to afford their water bills in five years, according to the study. Governments, utilities, and consumers will need to work together to solve a growing affordability problem.

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

Last week: “Boy, politics is getting crazy. You see the Speaker of the Florida House has recently met with journalists and advised them that he is shining lights on the cockroaches in our government, which apparently are everywhere. He said that the cynicism we have about government should be a 1000 times greater using the highest grade of steroids, whatever that means. What I found funny is that he backed up a little when it was pointed out that the Republicans have controlled the Senate, House, and Governor’s office for the last 20 years.

Looking ahead: The Coral Springs fire department has recently introduced into our community a new app called pulse point. It provides individuals in some communities, who are trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, also known as CPR, to be notified if someone nearby is having a cardiac emergency. Three other communities in Broward County provide the same app. By the way CPR really works because I personally used it a number of years ago to save a man’s life. All 31 cities in Broward should sign on. Who knows maybe it will be your life that is saved.

Daniel Cane, President and CEO, Modernizing Medicine

Last week: Not breaking news but recent news to me. It’s a big stinking deal that one of Palm Beach County’s best food festivals is coming to Lake Worth – where I went to high school – from downtown Delray, where it’s been forever. Garlic Fest epitomizes what I love about living here: delicious food, good times with family and friends, fun music, amazing weather. We really do live the good life.

Looking ahead: This week my team and I celebrated the burgeoning quality education offered in South Florida. Palm Beach State College’s STEAM programming offers area students unparalleled opportunities to learn skills for successful careers in science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Now it’s up to local employers to offer students and graduates meaningful internships and jobs to keep them part of our dynamic community. South Florida in general and Boca Raton specifically have a long history of technological innovation, and these students will help keep the momentum going long into the future.

Paul Castronovo, host, Paul Castronovo Show

Last week: It’s Super Bowl Sunday, America’s holiday, and instead of being plopped on my couch eating part of America’s $99 million dollars’ worth of meat snacks (pork rinds, beef jerky and pigs in a blanket), I will be joining thousands of soon to be football starved lunatics in downtown Ft. Lauderdale at what we are calling, the “Super Block Party”. Thanks to our “I never met a party I didn’t like” Mayor Jack Seiler, the annual street bash with couches and giant TV’s is back, after the ‘No Fun League’ shut it down years ago. Thanks and Go..anybody other than the Patriots!

Looking ahead: I’m worried about Johnny Depp. His former managers are suing him because, while he claims they mismanaged his money, they say it costs $2 million a month to be Johnny! How do you spend $2 million a month? Allegedly, he has a $30,000 a month wine habit, an $18 million dollar yacht and 14 homes including a private island in the Bahamas (can you knock it back to 9 homes and keep the island?). He only flies private (I can’t see him schlepping in coach) and has enough Hollywood memorabilia that it takes 14 storage facilities to hold it all. Oh, and he owns a town in France. My man.

Pastor D.H. Dawkins Sr., Praise Tabernacle International

Last week: For our country to be a democracy that celebrates diversity and defends liberty and justice for all, there’s entirely too much bullying and shade being thrown by influential voices that may not agree with some. Regardless of how passionate one may feel about certain issues, boycotting, suing, shutting down, slandering and demonizing an opposing voice/people is a presented as a “right” until it’s done to that voice/people then it’s wrong. Our plurality and freedom can slap us in the face if we don’t know how to manage it with coexisting dignity and tolerance.

Harry Dressler, mayor, Tamarac

Last week: State Representative Randy Fine filed a bill, HB 17, that prohibits any local government after January 1, 2017 from adopting or imposing any new regulation on a business. profession, and occupation unless the regulation is expressly authorized by the state legislature. Mr. Fine doesn’t seem to understand the constitutionality of Home Rule and the fact that democracy happens first at the local level. Clearly, this gentleman doesn’t comprehend that historical republicanism philosophically encourages small government and not the expansion of bigger government.

Looking ahead: Next week will exhibit continuing exchanges of personal political venom, most likely focused upon President Trump’s nomination of Neil Gorsuch for the vacant U.S. Supreme Court seat. The election campaign leading up to Mr. Trump’s election was nasty enough, do we have to endure more after the election? Citizens on both sides of the aisle need a break from the ugliness. I don’t expect our Congress to return to once civil and respectful debate of the issues. Maybe I’m just old fashioned.

Katie Edwards, member, Florida House of Representatives

Looking ahead: As lawmakers debate the merits of business incentive programs, we are equally turning our heads to the anti-business practices of local governments. Local governments should embrace businesses and encourage them to relocate their communities without engaging in the practice of unconstitutional governmental exactions or unnecessarily dragging out the permitting process. I will find it very hard to support appropriations requests from local governments who are not doing their fair share to create a friendly business climate at home.

Susan Haynie, mayor, Boca Raton

Last week: Campaign season is in full swing here in Boca Raton. Three years ago I accepted with gratitude the people of Boca Raton’s support to lead the city, and I am prepared to continue it to greatness. Together we will keep Boca Raton working for all of us.

Looking ahead: Boca Raton will be hosting the Allianz Championship, an official PGA tour hosted at Boca Raton’s Old Course of Broken Sound. Professional golfers come from all over to participate in the tournament, raising money for Boca Raton Regional Hospital among other charities.

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

Looking ahead:In 1790, George Washington visited Rhode Island and met with the Jewish community. He later sent them a letter, echoing their words, “…the Government of the United States gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance, requires only that they who live under its protection should demean themselves as good citizens…”. The modern good citizen must fiercely remember and recognize that no citizen – no person – should suffer bigotry or persecution. Let us be vigilant, aware, and awake to ensure we do not create categories into which we lump people. Only together can ‘we the people’ achieve a more perfect union.

Marty Kiar, Broward County Property Appraiser

Last week: As a result of working with the Broward County Property Appraiser’s Office, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp indicted two people with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, wire fraud and making false statements to the FDIC. The Sun-Sentinel reported that the individuals allegedly forged documents to claim ownership of real estate in New York and Florida and then used those documents to victimize residents and tenants. When people scheme to defraud others, we all pay. If you have information about someone engaging in fraud related to exemptions or property records, please call our Fraud Investigation Unit at 954.357.6900.

Chip LaMarca, member, Broward County Commission

Last week: The Broward County Commission met with several members of the Broward County Legislative Delegation to discuss our Broward County legislative priorities, appropriation requests and legislative proposals. As your County Commissioner my top priorities are always economic development, as well as beach renourishment and inlet management funding. I will also be advocating for appropriation requests for Port Everglades and funding for the Boys and Girls Clubs in our community. Making sure that the priorities of our residents are heard in Tallahassee is vital to the growth of our community. I consider my role to be your voice in our State Capitol.

Looking ahead: Next week I will be heading to Tallahassee with members of the Port Everglades Advocacy Team to discuss Port Everglades and other Broward County Programs with state lawmakers. While the authorization of the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act “WIIN” was approved and signed in D.C. by the House, Senate and the President in December we must now advocate for the next critical phase which is the appropriations process. Making sure that the right funding is allocated is critical to the continuation of the current and future expansion projects that will enhance the services at Port Everglades.

Gerry Litrento, senior executive vice president, BankUnited

Looking ahead: Will this be Tom Brady’s fifth Super Bowl victory? The 12 time Pro Bowl quarterback has had an epic career…..facing the Atlanta Falcons and Matt Ryan will hopefully make for a great game. The Super Bowl is back in South Florida in 2020. A study by Arizona State University reported that last year’s big game produced a gross economic impact of $719.4 million in the host state. From hotels and restaurants to Uber drivers, small businesses have a chance to score. Only one thing could make Super Bowl LIV in Miami better: a game that offers a home team advantage!

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

Last week: It appears that the airport has become the venue of choice for politicians eager to manufacture a sense of indignation as they posture before the cameras. This week it was President Trump’s crack down on immigration that provided the opportunity. U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Ted Deutch stood with a gaggle of supporters appropriately outraged for local television. On January 6 immediately following the mass shooting, politicians of all stripes, hungry for air time, made a bee line to the airport. What’s the motivation? Serving constituents or self-serving publicity. What’s really been accomplished here. We wonder.

Eduardo J. Padrón, president, Miami Dade College

Last week: At Miami Dade College, we are deeply committed to the success and well-being of all students, faculty and staff. At Democracy’s College, we believe in creating an environment that celebrates our diversity and harnesses the incredible potential of our entire community. As the College navigates the recent executive order on travel, we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the College remains a place where people feel safe, valued and accepted. We have provided information and helpful numbers to members of our community in recent days and will soon host information sessions to provide the facts as we know them and address questions and concerns.

Looking ahead: Black Heritage Month is well underway at MDC, where we celebrate all cultures and our diversity every single day. From films and talks to food tastings and concerts, the college is hosting many special events to commemorate this important month. For a complete listing of exciting activities, visit http://bluetoad.com/publication?i=379766.

Greg Ross, mayor, Cooper City; president, Broward League of Cities

Looking ahead: Next week, several Broward local elected officials will be in Washington, DC with the Florida League of Cities, meeting with Florida’s congressional delegation and the administration to discuss key federal issues affecting municipalities. Priorities include protection of the tax exempt status of municipal bonds (funding source for local infrastructure needs, i.e. schools, waterworks, roads), FEMA obligations, closing the online sales tax loophole and reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program, expiring this year. This will be the first time meeting with the new administration and members of the 115th U.S. Congress – we look forward to a productive and informative trip.

Tim Ryan, member, Broward County Commission

Last week: A reservoir essential to meeting South Florida’s future water needs got a big boost, as Gov. Rick Scott included $20 million in his proposed state budget for the C-51 Reservoir. Broward and Palm Beach counties and several cities have been working for a decade on plans to convert a Palm Beach County rock quarry into a reservoir that would initially supply 35 million gallons of water daily. If approved by the legislature, the state funds would help cover the project’s $160 million phase one costs, half of which are already committed from local government water utilities.

Looking ahead: Broward County Commissioners will consider a proposal to support designating Quiet Zones along the TriRail tracks through the northern part of the county. Federal law requires horns to sound as trains approach road crossings, which can disturb nearby residents and businesses. Horns aren’t required if the crossings have upgraded safety features. Quiet Zones are already in place in southern Broward cities along the TriRail tracks, and will go into effect along the eastern FEC tracks later this year. If Quiet Zones are designated for northern cities along the TriRail tracks, the entire county will experience less noise from train horns.?

Justin Sayfie, publisher, SayfieReview.com

Looking ahead: February will be a busy month for Florida’s recovering space industry. Elon Musk’s SpaceX has two launches planned from Central Florida: a cargo resupply mission to the International Space Station and a commercial launch. These will be the first SpaceX missions from Florida since an explosive mishap last September. In fact, these will be the first launches of any kind from Kennedy Space Center since the end of the Space Shuttle program 2011. If these SpaceX flights are successful, Florida will be another step closer to the goal of sending astronauts back into space.

Ian S. Seitel, attorney, Ian Seitel P.A.

Last week: The new Broward County courthouse opened recently after a substantial delay and costly overruns. It is 20 floors high, contains 77 courtrooms, complete with soaring ceilings and beautiful pieces of art, is environmentally friendly and architecturally inviting, and adds to Fort Lauderdale’s expanding sky line. It still has some kinks that need to be worked out, including a passage way with a precariously dangerous slope, but is a terrific new asset for the people of the county.

Chuck Shaw, chairman, Palm Beach County School Board

Last week: Looks like the adventures of our new President remain number one at the box office. It seems nothing he does makes the opposition happy. The partisan bickering and sour grapes have taken over. His nominations are being held up; his Supreme Court nominee is already in debate, and none of this has anything to do with the welfare of our people. It is politics at its worst. Both sides have to realize that we have real issues and a power fight is not going to help.

Looking ahead: The Super Bowl will be the top story early in the week. Millions will watch the game and not think about our crazy politicians in Washington. Ticket cost are $5000.00 or more, so the economy must be OK. (Or, is it just for those who could afford the tickets?) Talented athletes making millions will keep us in Chips, dips, wings, beer and out of reality for a few hours. Not bad. I just hope those politicians do not interrupt our game!

Tom Shea, president, Right Management

Last week: Congratulations to Florida Atlantic University’s Tech Runway for news of its positive economic impact. The public/private partnership fosters technology start-ups, and its 2016 economic impact report shows Tech Runway companies created more than 200 jobs and dozens of corporate partnerships since 2014. The companies achieved more than $8 million in revenues and raised over $19 million in capital during the past two years. It’s a dynamic resource for the innovation crucial to our region.

Looking ahead: It’s great to see American Express begin moving several thousand employees into the company’s new regional headquarters in Sunrise. A mainstay of South Florida’s economy and community for decades – and one of Broward’s top private-sector employers — the company has again stepped forward in a major way. From the innovative new facility to its people-centered workforce policies, American Express is a solid example for growing and engaging South Florida talent.

Joshua Thifault, Advancement Director, Turning Point USA

Last week: Wednesday night, the world saw madness win the day in California. Milo Yiannopoulos, Breitbart editor, planned to speak at U.C. Berkeley. Before he could start, rioters arrived. They launched fireworks at the building, and started a massive blaze. As if this wasn’t enough, they beat conservative students unconscious with metal poles. November 8th was a true repudiation of the Leftist agenda, and that has enraged quite a few people. It’s time to return to peaceful exchange of ideas on campus. America has drifted far from that standard.

Stephanie Toothaker, attorney, Tripp Scott

Last week: President Trump issued an executive order banning immigration for 90 days from 7 countries that are considered to be traditionally Muslim, sparring nationwide protests and creating non-traditional alliances. While it’s obviously clear that all Americans want to protect the security of our homeland and prevent another terrorist attack, it’s also clear that we can’t agree on how best to accomplish it.

Looking ahead: You really couldn’t miss the arrival of the dramatic statue of the “Volleyball Kill Shot” at the intersection of A1A and Las Olas. It signals the commencement of the Swatch Beach Major volleyball series. International volleyball stars have descended on Fort Lauderdale and are ready to kick off the 2017 Season. With the City’s support, a five year partnership agreement is now in place. This fantastic event is FREE to the public and it’s not to be missed. Taking place on the sand from February 7 – 12, get your free tickets at https://us.swatchmajorseries.com/en/230/tickets.

Bob Tucker, Director, Corporate Affairs, ADT

Last week: During tonight’s Super Bowl, we will see some innovative and creative commercials as advertisers justify the $5 million price tag for a 30-second spot. Usually it takes months to produce one of those TV commercials, but Hyundai is shooting its ad after kickoff and plans to air it 90 minutes later, immediately after the game. If that weren’t risky enough, the spot will be shot overseas at a U.S. military location and has to be edited and approved by the military before it airs with 110 million people watching worldwide. Holy guacamole!

Looking ahead: Chilly weather in South Florida means more people will be using gas-powered devices, even ovens, to heat their homes. That also means a greater threat of carbon monoxide. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 400 Americans died from the “silent killer” last year and 50,000 were hospitalized. Over half of all carbon monoxide incidents happen in the winter months. Never run a gas-powered engine, including generators, in a home and always install carbon monoxide detectors. Let’s stay safe South Florida!

Robert Weinroth, Deputy Mayor, Boca Raton

Last week: Food insecurity impacts many South Florida families with 1 in 4 children requiring nutritional assistance. Handouts are but a band-aid on a systemic problem requiring the approach being executed by Boca Helping Hands. With the dedication, this week, of their Justin Webb Training Center, the mission of building a bridge between dependence and independence, providing a hand-up to those in need with the tools to succeed, is the only way to break the cycle of poverty and dependence. Replacing pantry bags with skills and, ultimately, paychecks substitutes self-respect for shame felt in not being able to provide for one’s family.

Looking ahead: Elections have consequences. While some are not readily apparent, some are obvious and when they unfold, as expected, it is difficult to understand how the opposition party might have expected a different outcome. And so it goes with the announcement of the new administration’s cabinet selections and, most recently, the administration’s nomination of federal appeals court Judge Neil Gorsuch to fill the vacant seat on the Supreme Court of the United States. To the victor goes the spoils and notwithstanding the foot stamping and posturing, the nominations made by President Donald Trump are precisely what he promised during his campaign.