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Students, Faculty, and Staff Ride for Free on SunRail During College Week 2024

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SANFORD, Fla. – SunRail is excited to announce the return of College Week, running from Monday, September 16, through Friday, September 20, 2024. This year, SunRail invites students, faculty, and staff from SunRail station-friendly Central Florida colleges and universities to take advantage of free rides on all trains and at all stations throughout the week.

SunRail’s College Week offers students and employees of participating Central Florida colleges and universities the opportunity to ride SunRail for free. Whether commuting to campus, exploring Central Florida, or enjoying a leisure trip, this initiative is designed to build ridership by allowing participants to experience the convenience of SunRail.

Eligible participants include students and employees from the following Central Florida institutions:

 

  • University of Central Florida (UCF)
  • Rollins College
  • FAMU College of Law
  • Valencia College
  • Stetson University
  • Seminole State College
  • AdventHealth University
  • Florida State College of Medicine
  • Orange Technical College

Communication to students and employees of the participating institutions will take place from September 9 to September 20, 2024, through various channels including emails, flyer handouts, newsletters, social media, SunRail.com, and the SunRail app.

To participate, riders simply need to show a valid ID from a Central Florida college or university to the SunRail conductor in place of a SunCard or SunRail ticket. This will allow them to ride for free during College Week.

Questions? Please contact the FDOT Public Information Office at [email protected] or 386-943-5593.

Please be careful around trains, railroad crossings, and while at station platforms. Be smart. Be safe. For more information about SunRail, including fares, schedule, and station locations, please visit www.SunRail.com, or download the SunRail Mobile app.

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Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff to Campaign in Florida for the New Way Forward Tour

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This week, after the first presidential debate between Vice President Harris and Donald Trump, Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff will travel to Henderson, Nevada; Tucson, Arizona; and Central Florida as part of the Harris-Walz campaign’s New Way Forward battleground tour to mobilize support, drive enthusiasm, and reach the voters who will decide this election as we approach the closing weeks of the campaign.

With fewer than 60 days until Election Day, the Second Gentleman will underscore the contrast between Vice President Harris and Governor Walz’s vision for a brighter, more hopeful future versus Donald Trump and JD Vance’s Project 2025 that will give Trump unprecedented, unchecked power to enact his extreme and dangerous agenda.

CENTRAL FLORIDA

WHAT: Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff to campaign in Central Florida for the New Way Forward battleground tour.

WHEN: Friday, September 13, 2024. RSVP for more details.

WHERE: Central Florida.

RSVP: Credentialed members of the press interested in attending any of the stops must RSVP here by 5 PM ET on Wednesday, September 11, to request a credential and receive more details.

Please email [email protected] with any questions.

Florida Poly expands engineering horizons with two new master’s degrees

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LAKELAND, Fla. – Florida Polytechnic University is expanding its educational offerings this fall with the addition of two new, industry-driven master’s degrees: Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Master of Science in Electrical Engineering.

“Introducing two master’s degrees in these critical fields shows Florida Poly’s commitment to providing students with the specialized STEM education they need to thrive in high-wage, high-demand careers,” said Dr. Devin Stephenson, the University’s president. “These degrees offer a powerful new pathway to both personal fulfillment and economic success, positioning graduates at the forefront of innovation.”

This expansion of the graduate program is a key element of Florida Poly’s broader growth strategy, driven by the increasing demand for the institution’s offerings.

“We are excited to strategically expand our curriculum in alignment with the growth of our campus,” said Dr. Brad Thiessen, Florida Poly’s interim provost and vice president of academic affairs. “This change further fuels our University to become the state’s top source of talented engineers.”

The new graduate program options replace a master’s degree in engineering that offered specialization tracks in each of the disciplines.

Ryan Sullivan, associate director of graduate and transfer admissions, said the new mechanical and electrical engineering degrees support the state’s priority of developing Programs of Strategic Emphasis in alignment with economic and workforce needs.

“These degrees will be more in line with the marketplace and what the industry demands from students graduating from these fields,” said Ryan Sullivan, associate director of graduate and transfer admissions.

The first cohorts of students began their programs this fall semester. Those already pursuing the previous engineering degree have the option to transition to the updated curriculum.

Both new degrees will be available to students who would like to pursue either a coursework or thesis path. Additionally, they are available as part of the University’s popular 4+1 degree program, which enables students to earn graduate credit while completing their undergraduate education, thereby accelerating their path to a master’s degree.

The new graduate degrees are part of ongoing academic development at the University. They join bachelor’s degrees in civil engineering and industrial engineering that were added in 2023, and master’s degrees in data science and engineering management in 2022. In all, Florida Poly now offers five master’s and 12 bachelor’s programs, as well as the 4+1 degree program.

“This new electrical engineering degree can make you more marketable and will add to the strong success our graduates experience,” said Dr. Muhammad Rashid, Florida Poly’s interim chair of electrical, computer and cybersecurity engineering. “All the students so far who graduated from the master’s program found a job right away, and now it will be even easier for those who have a master’s degree in these specific engineering fields.”

For the most recent University news, visit Florida Poly News.

About Florida Polytechnic University: Florida Polytechnic University is ranked the number one public college in the Southeast Region for three years in a row and a top 20 public engineering program without a Ph.D. in the nation. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and a member of the State University System of Florida. Florida Poly is the only state university dedicated exclusively to STEM and offers ABET-accredited degrees. Florida Poly is a powerful economic engine within the state of Florida, blending applied research with industry partnerships to give students an academically rigorous education with real-world relevance. Florida Poly’s iconic Innovation, Science, and Technology Building, designed by world-renowned architect Dr. Santiago Calatrava, has won more than 20 global awards and was named one of the 16 most breathtaking buildings in the world. Connect with Florida Poly.

Florida Division of Emergency Management Recognizes September 2024 as Florida Preparedness Month and Encourages Residents to Stay Prepared

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis issued a proclamation declaring September as Florida Preparedness Month. The Florida Division of Emergency highlights the importance of Florida residents and visitors preparing for natural and man-made hazards.

“With one named storm already having made landfall this season, I want to emphasize to residents that being prepared doesn’t have to be complicated or costly,” said FDEM Executive Director Kevin Guthrie. “September is the historical peak of hurricane season, so residents need to follow the core five preparedness steps of ensuring disaster plans are in place; fully stocking a disaster supply kit; knowing their evacuation zone and the hurricane impacts their home can withstand; keeping car gas tanks at least halfway full; and knowing to evacuate only tens of miles inland to a safe shelter if necessary.”

FDEM continues supporting ongoing recovery efforts in counties impacted by Hurricane Debby and has already obligated over $100 million in recovery funding to areas in need.

The 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season runs until November 30, with September marking the historical peak of hurricane season. Every household and business is encouraged to take the necessary steps to finalize their disaster preparedness plans during this time.

Steps to Being Prepared for Floridians

  • Make a Plan—Each household should have a disaster plan specific to the needs of everyone in the family, including consideration of children, pets and seniors. Everyone in the household should assist in developing the emergency plan and understand it. Visit FloridaDisaster.org/PlanPrepare to make a plan.
  • Build a Disaster Supply Kit—Every household should have a disaster supply kit with enough food and water to last each individual for at least seven days. Beginning August 24 through September 6, families can purchase critical disaster preparedness items sales tax-free. Visit FloridaDisaster.org/Kit for a full disaster supply kit checklist and FloridaRevenue.com/DisasterPrep for qualifying items during the Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday.
  • Know Your Zone, Know Your Home—Residents need to know if they live in an evacuation zone, a low-lying flood-prone area, a manufactured home, or an unsafe structure during hurricane season. It is important for residents to know their home and its ability to withstand strong winds and heavy rain. This information helps residents better understand orders from local officials during a storm and make informed decisions. Visit FloridaDisaster.org/Know for more information.
  • Keep Gas Tanks Half Full and Electric Vehicles Half Charged—Residents should keep their vehicle’s gas tanks at least half full during hurricane season to ensure they have enough fuel to evacuate as soon as possible. For Floridians with electric vehicles, it is recommended that the battery be maintained between 50% – 80% capacity at all times, depending on the type of vehicle and what the vehicle’s manual recommends. Visit FloridaDisaster.org/HalfwayFull for more information.
  • Evacuate Tens of Miles, Not Hundreds of Miles—If an evacuation order is called for an area, residents will only need to evacuate tens of miles, not hundreds, to reach a safer location. A safer location could be a shelter made to withstand high winds and heavy rain or a stable structure not in a flood zone. Ultimately, residents need to make informed decisions and know what options are available in their community. Visit FloridaDisaster.org/Counties for all 67 counties’ emergency management websites.

Visit FloridaDisaster.org for emergency information and to learn more about Florida hazards.

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Florida Legislative Jewish Caucus Statement on Recent Atrocities Committed by Hamas

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Office of Representative Michael Gottlieb

[email protected]

(954) 655-5498

Shock, disgust, horror, and sadness cannot fully describe the tragic discovery of 6 kidnapped and tortured souls, including the body of 23-year-old American-Israeli citizen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin.  Hamas is a terrorist organization which must be destroyed. The Florida Legislative Jewish Caucus sends our sincere condolences to all victimized families and reaffirm our commitment to stand with Israel in her efforts to eradicate these terrorists.

Members:

Chair, Representative Michael Gottlieb

 

Senators

 

Senator Lori Berman

Senator Lauren Book

Senator Tina Polsky

 

Representatives

 

Representative Michael Caruso

Representative Hillary Cassel

Representative Randy Fine

Representative Peggy Gossett-Seidman

Representative Rita Harris

Representative Michelle Salzman

Representative David Silvers

Representative Kelly Skidmore

Representative Allison Tant

FAMU Announces Lt. Audrey Alexander as Chief of Police

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For Immediate Release
Aug. 29, 2024
 
 
Florida A&M University (FAMU) Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer Rebecca Brown has announced the appointment of Lt. Audrey Alexander as chief of police, effective September 13, 2024.
“Lieutenant Alexander has the necessary qualifications and has demonstrated her commitment to serve FAMU in this important role. With her proven track record of leadership, we have complete confidence in her ability and her vision for ensuring the safety of our campus,” Brown said. “I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Interim Chief John Cotton for answering the call to serve.  Over the past year, he, along with his dedicated team, has played a pivotal role in maintaining the safety and security of our campus. Their diligent efforts have been instrumental in ensuring a secure environment for everyone at the University.”
A FAMU alumna, Alexander has over 29 years of experience in law enforcement with the University in the Department of Campus Safety and Security. Her vast knowledge has afforded her the opportunity to fill various capacities during her tenure.
Prior to her appointment as chief of police, she served as assistant director/administrative lieutenant in the department from June 2022 until present. In that role, she was responsible for overseeing 25 sworn and non-sworn officers, development of departmental budgets, and implementation of community policing initiatives. Alexander has also served as interim chief of police, administrative sergeant, investigator and patrol officer. She is also certified as a 911 telecommunicator/dispatcher.
Alexander spent 24 years in the military before retiring as a major. She served in the U.S. Army Reserve and Florida National Guard. She held numerous positions of leadership that included executive officer, company commander, platoon leader, squad leader and investigative officer. Her service also included a one-year tour of duty in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
“I am both excited and humbled to take on this new role and continue serving our campus community with dedication and commitment,” said Alexander. “Having served the FAMU community over the last quarter of a century, I am deeply invested in the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff, and I will work tirelessly to ensure that our campus remains a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for everyone.”
Alexander holds three degrees from FAMU. She earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, and master’s degrees in public administration and adult education.
Media Contact
Andrew J. Skerritt
850-544-2675

FDP Chair Nikki Fried calls out Trump for ‘running away from his record on reproductive rights’

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 30, 2024

MEDIA CONTACT

[email protected]

 

FLORIDA DEMOCRATIC PARTY RESPONDS TO TRUMP’S ABORTION BAN COMMENTS

 

Tallahassee, FL — In an interview with NBC News, Donald Trump indicated that he does not support Florida’s 6-week abortion ban. In response, the Florida Democratic Party issued the following statement:

“Floridians know exactly how we got here,” said FDP Chair Nikki Fried in response to Donald Trump’s comments about Florida’s extreme 6-week ban. “Trump has repeatedly bragged about overturning Roe v. Wade and now, he’s attempting to run away from his record on reproductive rights because he knows that abortion bans are extremely unpopular.

“Because of Donald Trump, Floridians are living under one of the most restrictive 6-week abortion bans in the country. It’s a dangerous ban with virtually no exceptions, which puts women’s lives at risk and threatens doctors with prosecution. The majority of Floridians opposed the 6-week ban, yet Ron and Florida Republicans were quick to sign it into law.

“Florida voters won’t be fooled by Donald Trump’s lies. It’s time to hold every Republican accountable for enacting Florida’s extreme 6-week ban and the only way to do that is to vote yes on Amendment 4 and send Kamala Harris and Tim Walz to the White House in November.”

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Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute celebrates new graduates of Executive Leadership Seminar

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For Immediate Release

August 30, 2024

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute proudly announces the graduation of 15 distinguished criminal justice executives from its prestigious Executive Leadership Seminar. These accomplished professionals, who occupy leadership positions across various criminal justice agencies in Florida, have successfully completed the program.

The Executive Leadership Seminar, a key component of ongoing education for senior managers in Florida’s criminal justice sector, convened its participants for three intensive sessions at the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. The seminar’s curriculum emphasized crucial areas such as crisis communication, critical thinking, proactive leadership, organizational management, resilience, emotional intelligence, and servant leadership.

Founded in 1990 by the Florida Legislature and operating under the Florida Department of Law Enforcement in association with the State University System of Florida, the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute was created to meet the evolving needs for advanced training and education within the criminal justice field.

We extend our congratulations to the new graduates of Class 11 of the Executive Leadership Seminar, whose names are listed below:

 

Major Cedric Battle

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

Director Minnora Bishop

Department of Juvenile Justice

Captain Mathew Campion

Cape Coral Police Department

Commander Michael Castaing

St. Augustine Police Department

Major Adrian Cummings

Miami-Dade Police Department

Assistant Special Agent in Charge Charles Dickson

Florida Department of Law Enforcement

Captain Joseph Fulghum

Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office

Colonel Michael Hannaford

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

Major Jenny McCook

Broward Sheriff’s Office

Captain Justin Minser

Winter Haven Police Department

Captain Shannon Peterson

Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office

Major Joseph Prato

Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services

Captain Bobby Russell

Polk County Sheriff’s Office

Captain Jason Sayre

Clermont Police Department

Captain LaKisha Snow

Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office

For Further Information Contact:

FDLE Office of Public Information

(850) 410-7001

All Lanes of I-95 between SW 10th Street and Hillsboro Boulevard to Close Tuesday Night, Aug. 27

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Deerfield Beach, Fla. – All lanes of I-95 northbound and southbound between SW 10th Street and Hillsboro Boulevard will be closed overnight for Florida Power & Light (FP&L) transmission line installation. The closure will be in effect from 11 p.m. until 5 a.m., Monday night, Aug. 26. The first lane will close at 9 p.m., the second lane will close at 9:30 p.m., the third lane will close at 10 p.m., and all lanes will be closed by 11 p.m., reopening by 5 a.m. Aug. 27, Aug. 28 and Aug. 29, will be used as contingency nights if needed. The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) will be onsite to assist with traffic management for all detours.

I-95 southbound traffic will be detoured via the exit ramp to Hillsboro Boulevard westbound, Powerline Road southbound, and SW 10th Street eastbound to the I-95 southbound entrance ramp. The I-95 southbound managed lanes ingress at Congress Avenue and Palmetto Park Road will also be closed. Motorists may reenter the managed lanes south of SW 10th Street.

I-95 northbound traffic will be detoured via the exit ramp to SW 10th Street eastbound, Dixie Highway northbound, and Hillsboro Boulevard westbound to the I-95 northbound entrance ramp. The I-95 northbound managed lanes ingress at Oakland Park Boulevard and Cypress Creek Road will also be closed and motorists will egress at Sunrise Boulevard to follow the detour. Motorists may reenter the managed lanes north of Hillsboro Boulevard.

Motorists are advised to plan their routes accordingly and to follow all posted signage and law enforcement direction. FDOT appreciates the cooperation and understanding of the traveling public during this crucial construction activity. Safety is the Department’s top priority and is embedded in all that we do.

For more information, please call the FDOT District Four Communications Office at (954) 777-4090.

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Marion Senior Services Named PSC Helping Hand

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Tuesday, August 27, 2024

 MEDIA CONTACT: (850) 413-6482

 

TALLAHASSEE — The Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) is recognizing Marion Senior Services in Ocala as a PSC Helping Hand. Marion Senior Services partnered with the PSC to help raise awareness about energy and water conservation, utility impersonation scams, and Lifeline Assistance telephone/broadband discount program.

“Partnerships with local organizations are important to our outreach programs. With their assistance, we can reach those residents who can best benefit from our information,” said PSC Chairman Michael La Rosa. “We appreciate Marion Senior Services’ ongoing partnership and look forward to working with them again.”

In June, the Commission met with visitors at two senior services locations: Marion Café and Marion Oaks. Residents learned about the PSC’s responsibilities and how the agency can assist them with utility bill issues. PSC publications discussed with attendees include Where to Find Help in Florida and the “Get Wise and Conserve Florida” student activity guide to help children and grandchildren learn conservation tips.

“We have greatly benefited from our partnership and are honored to receive such a recognition,” said Glenda Thomas, Director, Outreach and Nutrition. “Marion Senior Services helps residents achieve and maintain an independent, healthy lifestyle. Our seniors enjoyed the information during the educational forums, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the PSC.”

The PSC regularly distributes materials to reach those who can benefit from information on hurricane preparedness, scam protections, and energy and water conservation.  Look for all the PSC Helping Hand outreach partner recognitions on the PSC’s website, www.floridapsc.com, under Consumer Information/Consumer Portal.

About Marion Senior Services

Located in Marion County, Marion Senior Services is a nonprofit, charitable social agency providing supportive care services to elderly, disabled, and disadvantaged residents. Marion Senior Services helps their clients remain in their own homes as long as possible by providing meals, transit, and in-home support services.

For additional information, visit www.floridapsc.com.

Follow the PSC on X and LinkedIn.

Subscribe to the Commission’s YouTube channel for Consumer Tips and PSAs.

 

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