- Create a will and a living will. A will establishes your desired distribution of assets that are not already designated with a beneficiary or that are outside of a trust. Clearly describe your wishes and beneficiaries in the will, so that there are no questions about your desires. A living will, or advance directive, will provide guidance to your loved ones on any medical decisions they will be required to make in the event you are incapacitated.
- Make a list of your debts. Create a detailed list of your debts, including credit cards, auto loans and mortgages. Include the amount you owe and contact information for each company. This will allow your loved ones to make arrangements to pay the debts without incurring additional penalties or fees.
- Develop a catalog of electronic accounts and current login information. Keep all usernames and passwords for every online account you have in one place, so that your loved ones can access necessary accounts. Make sure this information is kept in a secure location.
- Keep copies of retirement accounts and insurance policies in a central location. Be sure to note any designated beneficiary on each of your accounts, including alternate beneficiaries, as this will supersede what is noted in your will. Note any transfer on death (TOD) designations on any bank or brokerage accounts, as well, for the same reason.
Sen. Bill Nelson amendments to tax bill
U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson (D-FL), a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, today filed several amendments to the Senate Republican tax bill, which begins its markup in committee today.
The amendments, aimed at a broad range of issues, would, among other things, make it easier for seniors and small business owners to file their taxes without a paid tax professional by providing access to simplified filing forms, allow citrus growers to deduct the cost of replanting trees lost to citrus-greening and lower income-tax rates for anyone making less than $170,000 per year.
Nelson plans to offer the amendments during the Finance Committee’s markup of the tax bill this week.
Following is a complete list of the amendments Nelson filed with more information on each:
- Nelson Amendment #1: Encourage small business job growth. Nelson’s amendment would encourage small businesses to hire more workers by allowing small business owners to deduct the employer’s portion of payroll taxes for new hires for the first 12 months. New hires must be employed for at least nine months of the year to qualify for the deduction.
- Nelson Amendment #2: Lower tax rates for middle-class and low-income Americans. Nelson’s amendment would cut income tax rates for anyone making less than $170,000 per year. The current GOP plan would establish four income tax brackets for individuals making less than $170,000. Nelson’s amendment would consolidate those four brackets to three and lower the tax rates for each by roughly five percent. For example, individuals making less than $9,525 would see their tax rates cut from 10% to 5% under Nelson’s amendment, while individuals making $60,000 – $170,000 would see their rates go from 25% to 20%. Nelson’s amendment would consolidate the two brackets being proposed for individuals making between $9,525 and $60,000 and create just one bracket with a rate of 10%. [See chart below]
- Nelson Amendment #3: Emergency Citrus Disease Response. Nelson’s amendment would help Florida’s citrus growers start the process of replanting tens of millions of trees lost to citrus-greening. Citrus greening has killed more than 160,000 acres of citrus trees in Florida since 2005, and is threatening to wipeout Florida’s $11 billion citrus industry. Nelson’s amendment would allow growers to immediately deduct the full cost of planting new trees, instead of having to spread that cost out over a 14-year period.
- Nelson Amendment #4: Identity Theft and Tax Fraud Prevention. Nelson’s amendment is identical to the stand alone bill he filed earlier this year to combat tax-related identity theft by increasing penalties for both identity thieves and professional tax preparers who fail to keep taxpayers’ personal information secure. It also directs the IRS to create and implement a more streamlined process for handling ID theft cases to get victims their refunds faster. If approved, the amendment would increase the maximum fine for filing a fraudulent tax return with someone else’s identity from $100,000 to $250,000. It also increases the penalty for tax preparers who fail to protect their clients’ information from $250 per incident to $1,000.
- Nelson Amendment #5: Increase deductions for small businesses. The amendment increases a new pass-through deduction for small businesses from 17.4 percent, as proposed in the current GOP plan, to 25 percent of qualified business income. The deduction would be capped at $50,000.
- Nelson Amendment #6: Provide free online tool for small business owners to file taxes online.The amendment directs the IRS to work with the private sector to create a free online tool to help small businesses fill out their tax forms and file returns electronically – without the need of expensive tax professionals. The tool would guide small business owners through the tax filing process, and provide a user-friendly interface to help them determine their tax liability and eligibility for certain tax breaks. The amendment seeks to help small businesses save money by reducing the administrative burden and cost of tax compliance.
- Nelson Amendment #7: Reinstate personal exemptions. The current GOP plan eliminates personal exemptions for taxpayers, currently worth $4,050 per person. Nelson’s amendment would reinstate personal exemptions.
- Nelson Amendment #8: Increase taxes on corporate profits stashed overseas. Nelson’s amendment would impose a 20 percent minimum tax on the foreign earnings of a corporation made through a foreign affiliate located in a tax haven country. A tax haven country is defined as any foreign country if the effective foreign tax rate of the foreign affiliate is equal to or less than 12.5 percent.
- Nelson Amendment #9: Seniors’ Tax Simplification. Nelson’s amendment would allow seniors to file a 1040EZ to make it easier for them to complete their taxes. Currently, seniors over the age of 65 may not file their income taxes on the simplified Form 1040EZ and must use the more complicated Form 1040 or Form 1040A instead. This is because most seniors earn income through Social Security and other retirement benefits, as well as interest and capital gains on investments, and likely qualify for a special tax credit for the elderly and disabled.
The following chart shows the tax brackets and rates being proposed under Nelson’s Amendment #2, compared to the current tax rates (column 1) and those being proposed in the current version of the GOP tax bill (column 2):
Gov. Scott Announces $178 Million Investment for Florida’s Active Military, Veterans and Their Families
Also supports Proposal that Gives Free Tuition to Families
of Fallen First Responders, Law Enforcement & Military
Governor Rick Scott today announced that he will propose $178 million in total funding to support active military, veterans and their families in Florida as part of his 2018-2019 recommended budget. He also announced his support for a proposal being considered by the Constitution Revision Commission to provide free tuition to the families of fallen first responders, state law enforcement officers and military members who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The proposal provides 120 credit hours per family at a Florida state college, university or participating technical school. Each family would be entitled to one four-year degree. If passed by the CRC, the proposal will be on the ballot in 2018 and would require approval of 60 percent of Florida voters. The CRC proposal, P 49, was filed by Commissioner Emery Gainey and can be found HERE.
Governor Scott said, “I am a proud Navy veteran and my father served during World War II, and this Veterans Day, I was honored to remember the courageous people I had the opportunity to serve with. There is no greater sacrifice to one’s community or country than giving your life to protect others. We will never be able to repay our fallen officers or service members who have bravely given their lives, but it is our duty to ensure that their families are supported as if they were our own.
“I am proud to announce today that I will propose a $178 million investment to help make sure Florida continues to be the most military and veteran-friendly state in the nation for years to come. Our military, first responders and law enforcement members make the courageous decision to put their lives on the line every day to protect our country, families, and communities and I look forward to working with the Legislature during the upcoming session as we continue to do all we can to support these heroes. I will also fight this year to give voters the chance to approve a proposal to be included in our state’s constitution that gives free tuition to the families of our fallen law enforcement, first responders and military members.”
Governor Scott’s $178 million investment for Florida’s active military, veterans and their families includes:
- $200,000 for search and rescue vessels and protective equipment for our National Guardsmen to use during deployment;
- Nearly $8 million to begin operations at the Lake Baldwin State Veteran Nursing Home, which will allow this facility to serve more than 110 veterans in the coming year;
- $2 million for Building Homes for Heroes to build and modify homes for veterans who were severely injured while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan;
- $2 million for the Florida Defense Support Task Force, which helps support our military and defense communities and the many families who rely on them; and
- $2.7 million to support veterans looking to obtain employment, start their own businesses and make Florida their home, including $1 million for Veterans Florida to continue their mission of helping veterans find great jobs at Florida businesses.
Walton County Sheriff Mike Adkinson, President of the Florida Sheriffs Association, said, “The Sheriffs of Florida support proposal 49, brought forward by Sheriff Gainey, that provides death benefits to surviving family members of first responders who are killed or injured in the line of duty. Our most important asset is our people, and their families who support them in their service to our communities. Securing the future of our families is a noble act, and these death benefits provide educational opportunities for the surviving spouse or children to ensure they are able to provide for their families and contribute to the economy. We thank Governor Rick Scott and are grateful to the Constitution Revision Commission for considering this proposal as it truly does the right thing for our heroes and their families.”
In 2016, Governor Rick Scott signed SB 7012 which protects the families of fallen law enforcement officers and first responders by providing the fallen individual’s monthly salary to the beneficiary for their lifetime. The expanded benefit applies to all Special Risk class members of the Florida Retirement System. Special Risk includes law enforcement officers, firefighters, correctional officers, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, probation officers, and other employees whose job may put them at risk.
More details on the Governor’s proposed budget will be made available in the coming weeks.
The Florida Lottery is celebrating 25 years of POWERBALL's winning moments
Limited-time Instant Win Promotion On Sale Now
Beginning today, every 25th POWERBALL® with Power Play® purchase of $12 or more, sold statewide, will be an instant winner of $25! A Prize Alert symbol will print on the POWERBALL with Power Play ticket and the $25 Cash Prize Coupon will automatically print following the ticket. The Cash Prize Coupon can be redeemed at any Florida Lottery retailer or District Office. The promotion will end after all 23,120 instant win prizes are awarded.
“The Florida Lottery is proud to join in the celebration of the 25th Anniversary of POWERBALL,” said Secretary Jim Poppell. “This promotion will add more winning moments for players and retailers, while giving us the opportunity to generate additional contributions for education.”
The next POWERBALL drawing will be held Wednesday, November 15, at 10:59 p.m. ET, with an estimated $103 million jackpot. National POWERBALL drawings are broadcast live, in high-definition, from the Florida Lottery’s state of the art draw studio in Tallahassee. Florida Lottery game drawings are broadcast on 17 carrier stations throughout the state.
Affordable Care Act Enrollment Events in Florida: November 13 – 19, 2017
November 1 marked the start of the Affordable Care Act’s fifth health insurance open enrollment period, which runs through December 15. To assist Floridians with getting covered, the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida (EFOF) will once again host enrollment sites throughout the state.
EFOF is Florida’s second largest provider of free in-person ACA enrollment assistance, and has been a federal Navigation grant recipient in every ACA open enrollment period. EFOF has discussed ACA enrollment in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, the Associated Press, and in statewide and local media. EFOF has educated and assisted more than 250,000 Floridians at thousands of events in 35 counties.
The below events this week are free and open to the public. Floridians can also call toll-free to schedule an appointment, at 1-877-553-7453.
BROWARD COUNTY
MONDAY November 13, 2017
8:30AM – 12:00PM and 12:30PM – 5:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Broward Office – 512 NE 3rd Avenue, 3rd Floor, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301 (ENGLISH/SPANISH/CREOLE)
8:30AM – 1:30PM Plantation General Hospital, 401 NW 42nd Avenue, Plantation, FL (Main entrance (must sign-in please). Private office next to Administrative offices located on the right hallway). (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
TUESDAY November 14, 2017
8:30AM – 12:00PM and 12:30PM – 5:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Broward Office – 512 NE 3rd Avenue, 3rd Floor, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301 (ENGLISH/SPANISH/CREOLE)
WEDNESDAY November 15, 2017
8:30AM – 12:00PM and 12:30PM – 5:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Broward Office – 512 NE 3rd Avenue, 3rd Floor, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301 (ENGLISH/SPANISH/CREOLE)
8:30AM – 1:30PM Westside Regional Medical Center, 8201 West Broward Blvd., Suite 200, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
THURSDAY November 16, 2017
8:30AM – 12:00PM and 12:30PM – 5:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Broward Office – 512 NE 3rd Avenue, 3rd Floor, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301 (ENGLISH/SPANISH/CREOLE)
8:30AM – 1:30PM University Hospital and Medical Center, 7201 North University Drive., Tamarac, FL 33321 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
FRIDAY November 17, 2017
8:30AM – 12:00PM and 12:30PM – 5:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Broward Office – 512 NE 3rd Avenue, 3rd Floor, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301 (ENGLISH/SPANISH/CREOLE)
COLLIER COUNTY
MONDAY November 13, 2017
9:30AM- 4:00PM Collier County Public Library South Regional Branch, 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples, FL 34113 (ENGLISH ONLY)
TUESDAY November 14, 2017
9:30AM – 4:00PM Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Road, Naples, FL 34109 (ENGLISH ONLY)
WEDNESDAY November 15, 2017
9:30AM- 4:00PM Collier County Public Library South Regional Branch, 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples, FL 34113 (ENGLISH ONLY)
THURSDAY November 16, 2017
9:30AM – 4:00PM Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Road, Naples, FL 34109 (ENGLISH ONLY)
DUVAL COUNTY
MONDAY November 13, 2017
9:00AM -5:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Jacksonville Office, 5209 San Jose Blvd., Suite 101, Jacksonville, FL 32207 – BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. CALL 1-877-553-7453. (ENGLISH ONLY)
9:00AM – 4:30PM UF Health Jacksonville AKA Shands Hospital, Admissions and Financial Assistance, 2000 Boulevard Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206. (ENGLISH)
9:00AM – 2:00PM EMed Specialty Group, 2624 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207. (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
TUESDAY November 14, 2017
9:00AM -5:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Jacksonville Office, 5209 San Jose Blvd., Suite 101, Jacksonville, FL 32207 – BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. CALL 1-877-553-7453. (ENGLISH ONLY)
9:00AM – 4:30PM UF Health Jacksonville AKA Shands Hospital, Admissions and Financial Assistance, 2000 Boulevard Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206. (ENGLISH)
9:00AM – 2:00PM EMed Specialty Group, 2624 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207. (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
4:00PM – 8:00PM Orange Park Library, 2054 Plainfield Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073. (ENGLISH ONLY)
WEDNESDAY November 15, 2017
9:00AM -5:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Jacksonville Office, 5209 San Jose Blvd., Suite 101, Jacksonville, FL 32207 – BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. CALL 1-877-553-7453. (ENGLISH ONLY)
9:00AM – 4:30PM UF Health Jacksonville AKA Shands Hospital, Admissions and Financial Assistance, 2000 Boulevard Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206. (ENGLISH)
9:00AM – 2:00PM EMed Specialty Group, 2624 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207. (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
6:30PM – 9:00PM Iglesia Adventista la Esperanza, 2014 Kenneth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32207 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
THURSDAY November 16, 2017
9:00AM -5:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Jacksonville Office, 5209 San Jose Blvd., Suite 101, Jacksonville, FL 32207 – BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. CALL 1-877-553-7453. (ENGLISH ONLY)
9:00AM – 2:00PM UF Health Jacksonville AKA Shands Hospital, Admissions and Financial Assistance, 2000 Boulevard Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206. (ENGLISH)
9:00AM – 2:00PM EMed Specialty Group, 2624 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207. (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
FRIDAY November 17, 2017
9:00AM -5:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Jacksonville Office, 5209 San Jose Blvd., Suite 101, Jacksonville, FL 32207 – BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. CALL 1-877-553-7453. (ENGLISH ONLY)
9:00AM – 2:00PM EMed Specialty Group, 2624 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207. (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
SATURDAY November 18, 2017
8:00AM – 11:00AM EMed Specialty Group, 2624 Atlantic Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
ESCAMBIA COUNTY (All Times CST)
MONDAY November 13, 2017
10:00AM – 3:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Pensacola Office, 2401 Executive Plaza Road, Suite 3A, Pensacola, FL 32504. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY – Call 1-877-553-7453. (ENGLISH ONLY)
12:00PM – 6:00PM Walton County Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459. (ENGISH ONLY)
TUESDAY November 14, 2017
12:00PM – 6:00PM Niceville Public Library, 206 North Partin Drive, Niceville, FL 32578. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. CALL 1877-553-7453. (ENGLISH ONLY)
10:00AM – 3:00PM Downtown Branch – West Florida Public Library, 239 N. Spring Street, Pensacola, FL 32502. (ENGLISH ONLY)
12:00PM – 6:00PM Fort Walton Beach Public Library, 185 Miracle Strip Parkway, SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548. (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
WEDNESDAY November 15, 2017
9:00AM – 2:00PM Freeport Public Library, 75 US Highway 20 West, Freeport, FL 32439. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. CALL 1877-553-7453. (ENGLISH ONLY)
THURSDAY November 16, 2017
10:00AM – 2:00PM Robert F. Sikes – Crestview Library, 1445 Commerce Drive, Tutor Room, Crestview, FL 32539. (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
FRIDAY November 17, 2017
10:00AM – 3:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Pensacola Office, 2401 Executive Plaza Road, Suite 3A, Pensacola, FL 32504. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY – Call 1-877-553-7453. (ENGLISH ONLY)
SATURDAY November 18, 2017
10:00AM – 4:00PM Downtown Branch – West Florida Public Library, 239 N. Spring Street, Pensacola, FL 32502. (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
MIAMI DADE COUNTY
MONDAY November 13, 2017
9:30AM – 4:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Miami Office, 7300 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 760, Miami, FL 33156 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
9:00AM – 5:00PM Branches – CFS North Lakeview, 11500 NW 12th Avenue, Miami, FL 33168 (ENGLISH/SPANISH/CREOLE)
2:00PM – 8:00PM Kendall Regional Medical Center, Admitting/Receiving, 11750 SW 40th Street, Miami, FL 33175 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
TUESDAY November 14, 2017
9:30AM – 4:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Miami Office, 7300 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 760, Miami, FL 33156 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
4:30PM – 8:00PM Aventura Hospital & Medical Center, Admitting Area, Office 1, 20900 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura, FL 33180 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
2:00PM – 8:00PM Kendall Regional Medical Center, Admitting/Receiving, 11750 SW 40th Street, Miami, FL 33175 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
3:00PM – 9:00PPM Miami Dade College North Campus, New Student Center Room 1173-06, 11380 NW 27th Avenue, Miami, FL 33167 (ENGLISH ONLY)
11:00AM – 3:00PM Nanay Community Center, 659 NE 125th Street, North Miami, FL 33161 (ENGLISH/SPANISH). TRANSLATION SERVICES AVAILABLE FOR MANDARIN)
9:00AM – 6:00PM Sant La Haitian Community Neighborhood Center, Inc., 13390 West Dixie Highway. FL 33161 (ENGLISH/CREOLE)
WEDNESDAY, November 15, 2017
9:30AM – 4:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Miami Office, 7300 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 760, Miami, FL 33156 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
9:00AM – 5:00PM Branches – CFS North Lakeview, 11500 NW 12th Avenue, Miami, FL 33168 (ENGLISH/SPANISH/CREOLE)
2:00PM – 8:00PM Kendall Regional Medical Center, Admitting/Receiving, 11750 SW 40th Street, Miami, FL 33175 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
1:00PM – 8:00PM West Kendall Regional Baptist Hospital, First Impressions, 9555 SW 162nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33196 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
THURSDAY November 16, 2017
9:30AM – 4:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Miami Office, 7300 N. Kendall Drive, Suite 760, Miami, FL 33156 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
4:30PM – 8:00PM Aventura Hospital & Medical Center, Admitting Area, Office 1, 20900 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura, FL 33180 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
2:00PM – 8:00PM Kendall Regional Medical Center, Admitting/Receiving, 11750 SW 40th Street, Miami, FL 33175 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
10:00AM – 3:00PM Miami Dade College North Campus, New Student Center Room 1173-06, 11380 NW 27th Avenue, Miami, FL 33167 (ENGLISH/CREOLE)
3:00PM – 8:00PM West Kendall Regional Baptist Hospital, First Impressions, 9555 SW 162nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33196 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
FRIDAY November 17, 2017
2:00PM – 8:00PM Kendall Regional Medical Center, Admitting/Receiving, 11750 SW 40th Street, Miami, FL 33175 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
SATURDAY November 18, 2017
9:00AM – 4:00PM Kendall Regional Medical Center, Admitting/Receiving, 11750 SW 40th Street, Miami, FL 33175 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
9:00AM – 4:00PM West Kendall Regional Baptist Hospital, First Impressions, 9555 SW 162nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33196 (ENGILSH/SPANISH)
3:00PM – 7:00PM P.I.G. 8 Pork is Good. 212 NE 59th Terrace, Miami, FL 33137 EDUCATION ONLY – NO ENROLLMENTS (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
PALM BEACH COUNTY
MONDAY November 13, 2017
6:00PM – 9:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, West Palm Beach Office, 3222 Commerce Place, Suite B, West Palm Beach, FL 33407 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
10:00AM – 4:00PM Palm Beach County Library, Belle Glade Branch, 725 NW 4th Street, Belle Glade, FL 33430 (ENGLISH ONLY)
9:00AM – 12:00PM and 1:00PM – 5:00PM Jamroc, 256 SW Avenue B Place, Belle Glade, FL 33430 (ENGLISH/CREOLE)
WEDNESDAY November 15, 2017
6:00PM – 9:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, West Palm Beach Office, 3222 Commerce Place, Suite B, West Palm Beach, FL 33407 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
THURSDAY November 16, 2017
10:00AM – 5:00PM Pompey Park Community Center, 1101 NW 2nd Street, Delray Beach, FL 33444 (ENGLISH ONLY)
5:00PM – 8:00PM Compass OPEN ENROLLMENT EVENT. 201 N. Dixie Highway, Lake Worth, FL 33460 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
FRIDAY November 17, 2017
6:00PM – 9:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, West Palm Beach Office, 3222 Commerce Place, Suite B, West Palm Beach, FL 33407 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
10:00AM – 4:00PM City of Lake Worth City Hall Annex Building, 414 Lake Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33444 (ENGLISH ONLY)
SATURDAY November 18, 2017
9:00AM – 12:00PM and 1:00PM – 5:00PM Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, West Palm Beach Office, 3222 Commerce Place, Suite B, West Palm Beach, FL 33407 (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
9:00AM – 12:00PM and 1:00PM – 5:00PM Jamroc, 256 SW Avenue B Place, Belle Glade, FL 33430. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. CALL 1-877-553-7453 (ENGLISH/CREOLE)
9:00AM – 12:00PM and 1:00PM – 5:00PM Pinecrest Rehabilitation Hospital at the Delray Beach Medical Center, 5352 Linton Blvd., Delray Beach, FL 33484 (follow signs to Navigator; office to the left of the desk). (ENGLISH/SPANISH)
10:00AM – 5:00PM Pompey Park Community Center, 1101 NW 2nd Street, Delray Beach, FL 33444 (ENGLISH ONLY)
10:00AM – 4:00PM Palm Beach County Library Belle Glade Branch OPEN ENROLLMENT EVENT. 725 NW 4th Street, Belle Glade, FL 33430. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. CALL 1-877-553-7453 (ENGLISH/CREOLE)
10:00AM – 4:00PM Representative Lori Berman OPEN ENROLLMENT EVENT. TBA
As a combat-injured veteran, I ask all Americans to help address invisible injuries of war
The following op-ed calling for passage of U.S. Congressman Brian Mast’s Oath of Exit originally ran on FoxNews.com in recognition of Veterans Day:
In September 2010, I was at the top of my field, working as an Army explosive ordnance disposal expert in Afghanistan. And then a bomb exploded beneath me.
When I awoke days later in Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, I had to grapple with the realization that my legs, along with my usefulness on the battlefield, were likely gone. I would never be an asset to a mission again. If anything, I would be a detriment.
This Veterans Day, however, I now know that I was one of the lucky ones. My injuries were visible – plain for all to see. I was the beneficiary of endless support from doctors, people in our community and veterans organizations that helped me through recovery and helped me to realize I was still only limited by my own drive, grit and determination.
When people see my two legs are missing, they know immediately the assistance I need – help down a step, a cane, or a friendly shoulder to lean on. The kindness of everyone – even complete strangers – brings me feelings of immense gratitude.
But many scars of our nation’s wounded warriors are not visible. The recurring memories of an intense moment of combat, the damp feeling of a friend’s blood soaking your own uniform, and the sound of a brother’s last gasp of air will stay with me and my fellow warriors all our lives.
For many, these memories will be a part of a haunting labeled to most as post-traumatic stress. Far too often, my peers are haunted in silence without the same support of a grateful nation encouraging them through their struggle.
Rarely a week goes by that I don’t get a call from a veteran who is struggling with suicidal thoughts. As a society, and especially as a military family, we must do more to support these men and women who return home with the injuries we cannot see.
I’m now a member of Congress from Florida, waging a different kind of battle: to give America’s military veterans the help they have earned for defending our country.
One way we can support these men and women is by passing a bill that I introduced earlier this year called the Oath of Exit. Working with those who have experienced the weight of post-traumatic stress firsthand, I and others wrote the Oath of Exit to be a strong step forward in doing all we can to prevent even one more veteran from harming himself or herself.
The Oath of Exit creates a voluntary pledge for members of the armed forces to ask their brothers and sisters in arms for help – and to provide help when called upon.
That help is badly needed. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, an average of 20 veterans commit suicide every day and a veteran’s risk of suicide is 21 percent higher compared to an adult who has not served in the armed forces.
Coupled with increased awareness and resources to help these veterans, the Oath of Exit will provide an even stronger culture of support within our military family to combat these awful trends.
The Trump administration and Congress have already made supporting veterans a top priority. Just this week, the House passed more than a dozen bills to support veterans and improve the Department of Veterans Affairs.
But there is much more work that needs to be done. The Oath of Exit passed the House earlier this year as a part of the National Defense Authorization Act, but wasn’t included in the Senate version of the bill. We need another strong push to get the Oath of Exit across the finish line.
This should not be a partisan issue. On deployments around the world and at military bases in our own country, there are no Democrats or Republicans – only American patriots, proudly wearing the uniform of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines or Coast Guard.
Our military culture is one where the most important commitments are consistently spoken. The Soldier’s Creed, Ranger Creed, Special Forces Creed, Warrior Ethos, Army Values and Pledge of Allegiance are all examples of statements we put into heartfelt words.
These are the pledges that are important for us to uphold, so we repeat them nearly each day. This is because honor is more than just a word to members of the military and veterans. When we commit to something, we follow through.
This Veterans Day, my request of all my fellow Americans – beyond celebrating the amazing patriots who have defended America in an unbroken line since 1775 – is to remember that not all injuries of war look the same. Many don’t look like anything.
Take a moment to thank the veterans in your life this Veterans Day, but more importantly, speak with them, really connect with them and let them know you’ve got their six.
ICYMI: Miami Herald: Despite challenges, Florida’s juvenile justice system continues to improve
Despite challenges, Florida’s juvenile justice system continues to improve
By Shay Bilchik
Miami Herald
November 10, 2017
Recent Herald articles about the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) raise significant concerns about the agency’s operation. Unfortunately, they paint an incomplete picture.
Six years ago, DJJ embarked on an effort to strategically transform the way it serves at-risk and delinquent youth. This has been a daunting task filled with challenges, but led by a committed group of policymakers and practitioners, the agency has demonstrated great successes along the way.
…
DJJ’s path has not been perfect, but what I know from firsthand contact with that system is that its efforts have been earnest and significant. And while there have been horrible incidents of misconduct by staff, each has been met with an appropriate response by DJJ to address the behavior and ensure that it does not recur. At the same time, DJJ’s leadership has not wavered in its commitment to improve the overall system and how it serves youth, including the prevention of delinquent behavior.
…
Indeed, now is the time for Florida’s leadership to build on DJJ’s successes and further improve the system by investing in high quality staff, as well as smaller residential placements that are closer to where youth live and can successfully transition back into their communities.
…
DJJ is setting the standard for system reform, including its work around screening and assessment, the use of structured decision-making tools, and data analysis which is positively influencing practice across the country. Indeed, tens of thousands of youth are being well served by the Department of each year.
Is DJJ perfect in its work? No, but it is far better than the Herald’s reporting reflects.
SHAY BILCHIK IS RESEARCH PROFESSOR/CENTER DIRECTOR AT THE CENTER FOR JUVENILE JUSTICE REFORM AT GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY’S MCCOURT SCHOOL OF PUBLIC POLICY. HE SERVED FORMERLY AS AN ASSISTANT STATE ATTORNEY IN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY; AND ADMINISTRATOR OF THE OFFICE OF JUVENILE JUSTICE AND DELINQUENCY PREVENTION IN THE U. S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE.
Stetson University Waives Application Fee for Members of U.S. Armed Forces
Waiver honors veterans, encourages them to apply and graduate
As a member of the Coalition for Access, Affordability, and Success, Stetson University announced it is participating in the coalition’s application fee waiver for members of the U.S. Armed Forces to honor the military service of veterans and to encourage veterans to apply and graduate from college.
“Only four percent of all undergraduate students are veterans, and less than one-third of those veterans enroll at a four-year public or private university,” said Annie Reznik, executive director of the Coalition. “Our hope is that this waiver will not only inspire more veterans to apply to Coalition schools, but also convey that our members greatly value their service to our country, and now want to serve them. Plus, with their excellent track record of supporting students — and the graduation rates to prove it — Coalition schools are truly smart college choices for veterans.”
“Stetson recognizes that veterans face unique challenges, and this fee waiver is a way to facilitate that transition,” said Joel Bauman, vice president for enrollment management. Bauman added that Stetson University is military and veteran friendly.
The fee waiver is seamlessly integrated into the Coalition’s online application, and is the easy to use. Applicants simply indicate their status as “currently serving” or “previously served” in the U. S. Armed Forces, and a list of member schools that honor the waiver will be listed. Qualifying students will then automatically bypass the payment screen when they submit their application.
The Coalition for Access, Affordability, and Success is a group of colleges and universities across the U.S. that is committed to making college a reality for all students through its set of free online college planning tools, MyCoalition, that helps them learn about, prepare for and apply to college.
For more information visit, MyCoalition or coalitionforcollegeaccess.org.
Appointments by Gov. Rick Scott for Thursday, November 9, 2017
Gov. Scott Appoints Two to Board of Pharmacy
Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of two to the Board of Pharmacy.
Dr. Jeffrey Mesaros, 40, of Orlando, is the senior legal counsel of pharmacy practice for CVS Health. Dr. Mesaros received his doctor of pharmacy from the Nesbitt School of Pharmacy at Wilkes University. He succeeds Dr. Goar Alvarez and is appointed for a term beginning November 9, 2017, and ending October 31, 2020.
David Wright, 53, of Fort Pierce, is the owner of Butterfield Pharmacy. Wright received his bachelor of pharmacy from the University of Kentucky. He succeeds Debra Glass and is appointed for a term beginning November 9, 2017, and ending October 31, 2019.
These appointments are subject to Senate confirmation.
Gov. Scott Appoints Patrice Vance to Florida Center for Nursing Board of Directors
Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Patrice Vance to the Florida Center for Nursing Board of Directors.
Patrice Vance, 53, of Tampa, is the division vice president of clinical operations and quality for HCA West Florida Division. Vance received her master’s degree in nursing from the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. She succeeds Dora Krauss and is appointed for a term beginning November 9, 2017, and ending June 30, 2018.
Gov. Scott Reappoints Gary Wendt to Florida Polytechnic University Board of Trustees
Governor Rick Scott today announced the reappointment of Gary Wendt to the Florida Polytechnic University Board of Trustees.
Wendt, 75, of Ft. Lauderdale, currently serves as the Chairman of Deerpath Capital Management, LP. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and his master’s degree from Harvard University. Wendt is reappointed for a term beginning November 9, 2017, and ending June 30, 2022.
This appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Gov. Scott Reappoints Joe Wright to South Florida State College District Board of Trustees
Governor Rick Scott today announced the reappointment of Joe Wright to the South Florida State College District Board of Trustees.
Wright, 61, of Avon Park, is the president of V. W. Farms, Inc. He received his bachelor’s, master’s and juris doctorate from the University of Florida. Wright is reappointed for a term beginning November 9, 2017, and ending May 31, 2019.
The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Gov. Scott Reappoints Danny Ryals III to Chipola College District Board of Trustees
Governor Rick Scott today announced the reappointment of Daniel “Danny” Ryals to the Chipola College District Board of Trustees.
Ryals, 66, of Altha, is a broker with Danny Ryals Real Estate and the owner of R & R Warehouses. Ryals is reappointed for a term beginning November 9, 2017 and ending May 31, 2021.
The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Gov. Scott Reappoints Les Daniels to Health Care District of Palm Beach County
Governor Rick Scott today announced the reappointment of Les Daniels to the Health Care District of Palm Beach County.
Les Daniels, of Palm Beach, is the operating partner of AE Industrial Partners, LLC. Daniels received his bachelor’s degree in economics from Fordham University. He is reappointed for a term beginning November 9, 2017, and ending September 30, 2020.
Florida Board of Governors Gives FAMU Option to Forego National Presidential Search
The Florida State University System Board of Governors (BOG) voted to confirm the reappointment of Larry Robinson, Ph.D. as the interim president of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) and also opened the door for the University’s Board of Trustees to appoint him as permanent president.
During its regular meeting, the State University System’s governing body unanimously approved a waiver of its presidential search process in response to a request from FAMU’s BOT Chairman Kelvin Lawson and the board of trustees. The waiver was requested in August after FAMU trustees voted 11-0 in favor of the move.
Lawson said, “I look forward to a healthy discussion with FAMU’s trustees when we meet November 29-30 in Tallahassee. We will take the next step at our meeting and make a firm decision to either appoint Dr. Robinson as permanent president or conduct a national search.”
Lawson added, “We are appreciative of the support of the Board of Governors. Their vote speaks to the quality leadership team that we’ve assembled.”
Robinson has served as FAMU’s interim president since September 15, 2016 and also served in the capacity from July 2012 to April 2014 and in 2007.
FAMU’s National Alumni Association President Lt. Col. Gregory L. Clark and FAMU Foundation Vice Chair Hosetta Coleman appeared before the BOG to elaborate on their respective boards’ decisions to support Robinson for permanent president.
Coleman said, “Dr. Robinson has demonstrated through his leadership the ability to put action behind his vision to strengthen FAMU’s intellectual capacity by focusing on student success, enriching academic programs and enhancing efficiency and effectiveness, which is in line with the Board of Governors’ Performance Metrics.”
Clark said “The energy at Florida A&M University is high. We have a highly functioning Board of Trustees, an engaged Foundation Board and a committed National Alumni Association, which are all energized by Dr. Robinson’s leadership style.”
Governor Alan Levine was among board members who commended Robinson’s leadership and track record.
Levine said, “I think he’s brought a lot of vision to the campus.”
Tallahassee attorney and governor Tim Cerio is a new appointee to the board.
“I think he’s (Robinson) done amazing things in a short amount of time. I have a lot of confidence in Dr. Robinson and what he’s going to do in the future.”
The BOG also reappointed FAMU Trustee and Board Vice Chair Kimberly Moore to FAMU’s BOT. She has served on the board since 2013.