Following strong response to its first-ever cruises to Cuba announced earlier this year, Carnival Cruise Line has added five more voyages from Port Tampa Bay featuring extended calls in Havana in 2018.
The new voyages include three five-day cruises to Havana and Cozumel or Key West departing Feb. 17, July 2 and Sept. 5, 2018; a six-day sailing featuring Havana and Grand Cayman departing Aug. 26, 2018; and an eight-day voyage with stops at Havana, Grand Cayman and Cozumel departing Aug. 18, 2018.
Earlier this year, Carnival announced a series of four and five-day voyages to Havana that kicked off in late June. Upcoming voyages in the initial program include four-day cruises departing Aug. 24, Sept. 7 and 21, and Oct. 5 and 19, 2017 as well as May 3, 2018 and five-day voyages departing Aug. 28, Sept. 25 and Oct. 9, 2017.
The visits to Havana comply with regulations of the U.S. Department of Treasury that permit travel operators to transport approved travelers to Cuba to engage in activities as defined by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Office of Foreign Assets Control.
About Port Tampa Bay
Port Tampa Bay is Florida’s largest port and the largest economic engine in west central Florida, supporting nearly 85,000 jobs and generating over $17 billion in annual economic impact. In addition to being a top 10 U.S. cruise port, the port handles a wide array of bulk, break bulk, containers and roll-on/roll-off cargoes, and is a major shipbuilding and repair center. Port Tampa Bay was honored as 2016 Best Port Operator by Lloyd’s List. For more information, visit www.portTB.com.
UNF and MOCA Jacksonville Present ‘Lost Springs’ Project
The University of North Florida Lufrano Intercultural Gallery and Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville, a cultural institute of UNF, will present the “Lost Springs” project in a series of exhibitions and events, beginning Thursday, Sept. 14, and running through Sunday, Dec. 31. The “Lost Springs” chronicles the tragic demise of the iconic springs of the Ocklawaha River in North Central Florida.
The UNF Lufrano Intercultural Gallery, located in the Student Union, Building 58E, on the second floor, will present the exhibition “Lost Springs of the Ocklawaha,” a collaboration between Gainesville painter/activist Margaret Ross Tolbert and St. Augustine-based environmental filmmaker Matt Keene.
“I’ve known Margaret Tolbert for many years and am thrilled to be mounting these exhibitions,” said UNF Gallery of Art Coordinator Jim Draper, who is curating the “Lost Springs” exhibition at UNF and MOCA. “This is a great example of an artist using their work to engage an audience in conversation about specific issues.”
This multimedia exhibition features images, sculpture and film of Cannon Springs and Tobacco Patch Springs created by various artists, including Tolbert, Keene, Karen Chadwick, Mark Long and others. The opening reception will be 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 14, in the Gallery and the exhibit will run through Tuesday, Oct. 24.
Tolbert is a tireless crusader who uses a brush as a weapon to fight for the rights of springs. In 1971, the ill-conceived Army Corps of Engineers project, the Cross Florida Barge Canal, was suspended by executive order, leaving the beautiful Ocklawaha River strangled by the Kirkpatrick Dam in Putnam County.
Every four years, the gates of the dam are opened for a few months, and the Ocklawaha is allowed to run free. During the low water, Tolbert paddles into these mysterious hidden places with her canvases and paints. “Lost Springs” memorialize the temporary emergence of Ocklawaha’s hidden springs.
There will also be an exhibition in the UNF Gallery at MOCA. “Margaret Ross Tolbert: Lost Springs” kicks off Saturday, Sept. 23, and runs through Sunday, Dec. 31.
“Tolbert’s investigation of the ‘Lost Springs’ promises to provide transformational opportunities, such as dialogues and accompanying programs, around this thought-provoking topic,” said MOCA Director Caitlín Doherty.
A reception will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24, in the UNF Gallery at MOCA, and a special premiere of an accompanying film by Tolbert and Keene will take place at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. in MOCA’s Theater.
A screening of the film will also take place at 7 p.m. both Thursday, Sept. 28, and Tuesday, Oct. 3, and again at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12, all in the Student Union Auditorium, Student Union, Building 58W, Room 2704, on the UNF campus.
In the documentary “Lost Springs,” Keene follows Tolbert as she experiences springs normally inaccessible due to the Kirkpatrick Dam in Putnam County. The film explores themes of loss, wonder and experience in nature as it follows the course of a drawdown of the dam’s pool, which happens every three or more years, exposing a submerged world normally hidden below the high waters of the dam.
Additionally, there will be a panel discussion featuring Tolbert and Keene, in conjunction with the UNF Environmental Center, about the springs from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, at the MOCA Theater.
All events are free and open to the public. Images and cutlines of Tolbert’s work on display at MOCA and at UNF are available here. Draper and Tolbert are both available for interviews.
MOCA Jacksonville serves the community and its visitors through its mission to promote the discovery, knowledge, and advancement of the art, artists, and ideas of our time. For more information, including hours of operation, admission prices, and upcoming exhibitions and programs, visit mocajacksonville.unf.edu or call (904) 366-6911.
UNF, a nationally ranked university located on an environmentally beautiful campus, offers students who are dedicated to enriching the lives of others the opportunity to build their own futures through a well-rounded education.
Central Florida Commuter Rail Commission (CFCRC) Meeting August 30, 2017
The Central Florida Commuter Rail Commission (CFCRC), the SunRail advisory board comprised of elected leaders from the five local funding partners, will meet Wednesday, August 30, 2017 beginning at 9 a.m. at the Metroplan Orlando offices, located at 250 S. Orange Avenue, Suite 200, Orlando, Florida 32801. This meeting site is conveniently located near the Church Street Station platforms. Please check SunRail arrival and departure times at www.sunrail.com.
Persons with disabilities who require accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or persons who require translation services (free of charge) should contact Jessica Ottaviano, FDOT Public Information Specialist, 719 S. Woodland Boulevard, DeLand, FL 32720, or by phone at 386-943-5473, or by email at [email protected] at least seven (7) days prior to the meeting. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact us by using the Florida Relay Service, 1-800-955-8771 (TDD) or 1-800-955-8770 (Voice).
Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or family status. Persons wishing to express their concerns relative to FDOT compliance with Title VI may do so by contacting Jennifer Smith, FDOT District Five Title VI Coordinator by phone at 386-943-5367, or via email at [email protected].
Questions? Please contact Steve Olson of the Florida Department of Transportation at [email protected] /386-943-5479.
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.
Caldwell Locks Another Key Endorsement Block in Bid for Commissioner of Agriculture
Announces Unanimous Support from SWFL House Delegation
Representative Matt Caldwell today announced the unanimous support of House members from Southwest Florida, in the second wave of legislative endorsements announced by the campaign. Since launching his bid for Florida Commissioner of Agriculture, Representative Caldwell continues to travel the Sunshine State talking to voters, sharing his conservative message and building support for his grassroots campaign, which has amassed one million dollars in 6 months.
Representative Caldwell said, “I am proud to have unanimous support from House members in Southwest Florida, a tight-knit and dynamic group who share conservative principles and have been effective in shaping policy and ensuring prosperity for the Sunshine State. Floridians deserve a Commissioner who is a true conservative that in can lead in Tallahassee on day one and, with hard work and God’s blessing, our campaign will be successful.”
The second wave of legislative endorsements includes:
- Rep. Byron Donalds (R – Naples)
- Rep. Dane Eagle (R – Cape Coral)
- Rep. Heather Fitzenhagen (R – Fort Myers)
- Rep. Bob Rommel (R – Naples)
- Rep. Ray Rodrigues (R – Estero)
Rep. Ray Rodrigues said, “I am proud to endorse my friend Matt Caldwell for Commissioner of Agriculture. I have been blessed to call Matt a close personal friend for over 20 years. We have worked on issues together ranging from local initiatives all the way to the US Constitution. I now have the honor to serve with him in the Florida House, where we work to advance our shared conservative principles. There is not a more qualified, or better person, to serve as Florida’s next Commissioner of Agriculture. Join me and vote for Matt Caldwell.”
Rep. Byron Donalds said, “I am excited to endorse Matt Caldwell in his campaign to be Florida’s next Commissioner of Agriculture. Matt is a true conservative that adheres to the same principles our Founders’ subscribed to over 200 years ago. He is a proven leader who is committed to protecting our God given rights. Matt is the candidate I am supporting for Commissioner of Agriculture.”
Rep. Dane Eagle said, “Matt Caldwell has been a strong conservative leader for Southwest Florida as a member of the Florida House and will bring that leadership statewide as a member of the Florida Cabinet. Matt has my full support in his bid to become Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, and I ask that you join me in voting for Matt Caldwell.”
Rep. Heather Fitzenhagen said, “With the many jobs and industries that rely on Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, it is essential that we elect someone with the understanding and experience to take on the challenges of that office on day one. Matt Caldwell’s proven record of leadership and success in the Florida House make him the most qualified person for this important office. I am thrilled to support Matt and I urge you to join me in voting for him.”
Re. Bob Rommel said, “The Commissioner of Agriculture oversees a critical pillar of this state and supports the hardworking farmers that produce the wholesome food served on tables across the world. Our next Commissioner must be resilient, hardworking and knowledgeable about the issues our farmers deal with on a daily basis. No one is more qualified than Matt Caldwell and I am proud to give him my endorsement.”
The Commissioner of Agriculture serves as a member of the Florida Cabinet and is critical to the foundation of Florida’s economy. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services helps the agricultural industry with its daily challenges, promotes Florida’s agricultural commodities, manages state forests, safeguards consumers, implements the school lunch program, and oversees the concealed-weapon license system. The campaign recently announced Caldwell’s statewide #2LaneTravels Work Days Tour that highlights and showcases industries overseen as Commissioner of Agriculture.
WATCH: The campaign released a video highlighting #2LaneTravels Work Day in Chiefland and Cross City
Seffner man's GROUPER purchase pays off with free LUCKY MONEY ticket
The Florida Lottery announces that Jamar Davis, 25, of Seffner, claimed his $325,000 share of the $650,000 LUCKY MONEY™ jackpot from the August 11, 2017, drawing at Florida Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee. The other jackpot-winning ticket, purchased in Ponte Vedra, has not yet been claimed. He chose to receive his winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $245,390.98.
Davis purchased the Lottery’s new permanent GROUPER® offering at Circle K, located at 36516 Eiland Boulevard in Zephyrhills. His purchase included a free LUCKY MONEY Quick Pick ticket that ended up winning him the jackpot.
Total ticket sales for this LUCKY MONEY jackpot generated more than $746,000 for the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund.
The next LUCKY MONEY drawing will be Friday, August 18, 2017, at 11:15 p.m. ET, with a $550,000 jackpot. The LUCKY MONEY drawings are broadcast on 17 carrier stations throughout the state. Winning numbers are available on the Lottery website, at retailers statewide and by phone at (850) 921-PLAY.
Gov. Scott Recognizes Seven Educators with the Governor’s Shine Award
During a meeting of the Florida Cabinet today, Governor Rick Scott recognized seven outstanding educators with the Governor’s Shine Award. The Shine Award is presented to teachers and administrators in Florida who make significant contributions to the field of education. The educators honored today are 2017 District Teachers of the Year.
Governor Rick Scott said, “I am proud to present these seven educators with the Governor’s Shine Award today. These outstanding teachers have been recognized by their communities for their commitment to student achievement and I applaud their dedication to educating the future leaders of our state. We will continue to fight for Florida’s great educators and students to ensure they have the resources they need to be successful.”
The following educators were presented with the Governor’s Shine Awards:
Jessica Hooker, Leon County – Jessica Hooker has taught second and third grade at Springwood Elementary School for nine years and is currently the school’s mathematics instructional coach. Jessica is the 2017 Leon County District Teacher of the Year.
Lisa Kelley, Florida State University Schools – Lisa Kelly is currently the Academic Dean for grades 6-8 at Florida State University Schools. She has 19 years’ experience as an educator and formerly taught physical education to students in grades K-5. Lisa is the 2017 Florida State University Schools Teacher of the Year.
Jennifer Lee, Liberty County – Jennifer Lee has taught kindergarten and special education at W.R. Tolar School for the past 11 years. She is the 2017 Liberty County District Teacher of the Year.
Peter MacWilliam, Jefferson County – Peter MacWilliam has more than 25 years’ experience as an educator and currently teaches Spanish for students in grades 6-12 at Jefferson County – A Somerset School. Peter holds National Board Certification in World Languages Spanish and is the 2017 Jefferson County District Teacher of the Year.
Lauralee Mitchell, Wakulla County – Lauralee Mitchell has been teaching at Shadeville Elementary eight years, where she is currently teaching first grade. Lauralee is the 2017 Wakulla County District Teacher of the Year and was recognized with Macy’s “Magic of Giving Back” award at the 2017 Teacher of the Year gala.
Natasha Pennycuff, Franklin County – Natasha Pennycuff teaches first grade at the Franklin County School where she has worked for four years. Natasha is the 2017 Franklin County District Teacher of the Year.
Cindy Vega, Madison County – Cindy Vega has taught first grade for seven years and served as a mentor for first-year teachers at Madison County Central School. Cindy is the 2017 Madison County District Teacher of the Year.
James W. Denhardt to Head Florida Municipal Attorneys Association
Saint Petersburg Attorney Elected President of
Prestigious Statewide Attorneys Organization
James W. Denhardt, a Saint Petersburg lawyer who serves as city attorney for Pinellas Park and Redington Shores, was named president of the Florida Municipal Attorneys Association (FMAA) at the organization’s 36th Annual Seminar. He will serve a one-year term leading the FMAA.
“The Florida Municipal Attorneys Association is a group of approximately 800 of what I consider to be some of the most outstanding attorneys in the state, both in the public and private sectors, and who represent municipalities and governments as in-house counsel and as outside special counsel,” said Denhardt. “I am extremely flattered and honored to have been selected to serve as president of the FMAA for the next year.”
After graduating from law school in 1973, Denhardt was an assistant state attorney for the Sixth Judicial Circuit for three and a half years, and has maintained a private practice of law in St. Petersburg for the past 41 years. He has served continuously as town attorney for the Town of Redington Shores for 39 years, served as city attorney for the City of Treasure Island for 17 years, and has served as city attorney for the City of Pinellas Park for the past 13 years. In addition, he has served as special counsel for the City of St. Petersburg, City of Clearwater, and the City of Madeira Beach, and has served as special magistrate for a number of other communities.
“I have worked closely with Jim on a number of matters over the years. He is not only an extremely competent attorney, but also a very practical-minded one, both in his private practice and in his representation of his municipal clients,” said retired St. Petersburg City Attorney and former FMAA President John Wolfe. “He has served a number of Pinellas County municipalities as city attorney and in other capacities for nearly 40 years. He is very respected by his peers in this area and throughout the state. Jim is well prepared to lead the FMAA as president.”
“Jim is well-versed in the area of municipal law and has repeatedly shared his knowledge with city attorneys throughout the state,” said Florida League of Cities General Counsel Chip Morrison. “He will serve the FMAA well as president.”
New officers were also elected for the 2017-18 term. Fort Lauderdale City Attorney Cynthia Everett will serve as president-elect and Orlando Chief Assistant City Attorney Kyle A. Shephard will serve as treasurer.
Gov. Scott Recognizes Sunny Ilyas with Young Entrepreneur Award
During a meeting of the Florida Cabinet today, Governor Rick Scott recognized Sunny Ilyas, 26, with the Governor’s Young Entrepreneur Award. Sunny is the Founder and CEO of Vale Food Co., a fast, healthy restaurant that also offers meal plan delivery. Vale Food Co. was founded in August of 2014 and has locations in Tallahassee and Gainesville with Tampa opening this Fall.
Governor Scott said, “I’m proud to recognize Sunny with the Young Entrepreneur Award today. The growth Vale Food Co. has accomplished in just three years is a true Florida success story. Sunny’s continued hard work and dedication will help ensure his business has many more years of growth in our state.”
Founder and CEO of Vale Food Co. Sunny Ilyas said, “It’s an honor to be recognized with the Governor’s Young Entrepreneur Award today. I’m extremely thankful to own my business and have the opportunity to share my passion for nutrition and healthy living every day. I’m thrilled to see how much Vale has grown in just a few years and look forward to many more years of success and growth throughout the state.”
To learn more about Vale Food Co., visit valefoodco.com. To learn more about the Governor’s Young Entrepreneur Award, visit HireFloridaGrads.com.
Senator Linda Stewart Gains New Committee Roles, Vice Chairperson Role for Environment
State Senator Linda Stewart yesterday received notice of new committee assignments in the Senate. Among those changes were her elevation to the Vice Chairpersonship of the Environmental Preservation and Conservation committee, a seat on the powerful Appropriations Committee, as well as a seat on one of its subcommittees that will determine funding for the four major colleges and universities in her district. Senator Stewart released the following statement:
“I’m honored, especially as a freshman Senator, to be given the responsibility of a vice chairpersonship and help set—for the first time in a long, long time in Florida—a more conservation-friendly agenda in Tallahassee. I’m also excited by the opportunity to fight for important dollars to fund programs and new construction at Valencia College, the University of Central Florida, Barry University School of Law, and Full Sail University as a member of the Higher Education Appropriations Subcommittee. These institutions are a vital part of the community—and of Central Florida’s economy—and I look forward to providing them with the resources they need to help anyone who wants to attend achieve their dreams.”
The complete list of State Senator Linda Stewart’s committee assignments are as follows:
• Environmental Preservation and Conservation, Vice Chair
• Appropriations
• Appropriations Subcommittee on the Environment and Natural Resources
• Appropriations Subcommittee on Higher Education
• Education
• Governmental Oversight and Accountability
• Joint Committee on Public Counsel Oversight
Mast Unveils Bill to Combat Harmful Algal Blooms
Harmful Algal Blooms Solutions Act will
Incentivize Development of Innovative Technology
U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) today announced the Harmful Algal Blooms Solution Act establishing a competitive program to award prizes for the development of innovative, environmentally safe solutions to combat harmful algal blooms.
“When I talk to experts about the challenges of cleaning up harmful algal blooms, one of the most frequent roadblocks I hear about is the difficulty in scaling technology to the size needed to clean huge bodies of water,” Rep. Mast said. “This new program would go a long way toward improving the type of technology that cleans algae out of fish tanks to be able to keep our rivers clean.”
The bill instructs the Secretary of Commerce to create a program that will recognize and award financial prizes to individuals who develop technology to assist with the 1) large scale physical removal of algal biomass, 2) removal of, or rendering harmless, harmful algal bloom toxins in the environment, 3) reduction of available nutrients that fuel harmful algal blooms, and 4) real-time monitoring of harmful algal blooms and early-warning systems.
In order to implement the program, the Secretary of Commerce must establish a board to administer the program made up of federal officials, state officials in impacted states and non-government experts. The board will operate as a public-private partnership, soliciting private donations to fund the awards, as well as determining specific award categories and amounts.
The introduction of the bill builds on Rep. Mast’s successful effort to secure more than $1 million in research and development money to combat harmful algal blooms as part of the Make America Secure Appropriations Act passed by the House of Representatives in July.
