Martin County Clerk and Comptroller Carolyn Timmann was named chair of the Criminal and Juvenile Justice Information Systems (CJJIS) Council last week in Jacksonville. Clerk Timmann was nominated for the position by fellow council members representing agencies from across the Florida judicial system.
Created by Florida Statutes within the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the CJJIS Council provides statewide oversight of justice information systems and data while developing plans and policies to facilitate the coordination of information sharing and interoperability, and ensuring appropriate access and security.
Clerk Timmann has served as the Clerks’ representative on the council since first being appointed by Gov. Rick Scott in March 2014. She also serves as chair of the council’s Resource Committee.
Established in 1969, Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers (FCCC) is a statewide nonprofit member association composed of the Florida Clerks of the Circuit Court and Comptrollers. FCCC provides local government support services, technical assistance and accreditation opportunities for all members of the association. For more information, visit www.flclerks.com.
Mast Secures Funding to Combat Harmful Algal Blooms, Restore Everglades
More Than $150 Million Allocated to Everglades Restoration
Mast Amendments Provide Money to Prevent Harmful Algal Blooms
U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) today successfully secured more than $150 million in federal funding to combat harmful algal blooms and restore the Everglades. In addition to millions of dollars in funding for new and ongoing Everglades restoration projects, the Make America Secure Appropriations Act included two amendments authored by Rep. Mast to research and develop technology to prevent harmful algal blooms.
“After last summer, our community knows far too well what environmental disaster looks like. The great news is that this bill includes over $150 million that will directly help the Everglades and our coastal environment, including my amendments to combat harmful algal blooms,” Rep. Mast said. “But our work is far from done, which is why I will continue my fight in Congress to build a southern reservoir and take every possible step to clean up our water.”
The bill includes $82 million for Herbert Hoover Dike rehabilitation and $76.5 million for South Florida ecosystem restoration. Additionally, the bill includes two amendments authored by Rep. Mast to research and develop new technology to combat harmful algal blooms:
Department of the Navy Research Laboratory – $598,000
The Environmental Sustainability Development Project under the Naval Research Laboratory works on coastal contamination and contaminated sediments. Funding for this program was originally cut in the proposed Department of Defense appropriations bill by $598,000 compared to FY2017 enacted levels. Rep. Mast’s amendment successfully restored the program to full funding.
The Aquatic Plant Control Research Program – $500,000
Rep. Mast’s amendment increased funding by $500,000 for the Aquatic Plant Control Research Program, which is the nation’s only federally authorized research program directed to develop technology for the management of non-indigenous aquatic plant species, such as harmful algal blooms.
ACA Repeal Will Result in Massive Losses in Health Care Coverage, Job Losses in Florida
No matter which version of the bill Senate Republicans, including Senator Rubio, are scheming to pass, the end product will strip health care from millions of Floridians. Instead of answering to the people who elected him, Senator Rubio is expected to vote on repeal bill that would cause millions of Americans to lose their health insurance and cause premiums to skyrocket.
“Senator Rubio’s and his Republican colleagues’ commitment to repeal the Affordable Care Act is dangerous. It would throw millions of Americans off their health care coverage and fracture local economies. In Florida alone, as many as 181,000 people could lose their jobs and 2,230,000 Floridians could lose healthcare coverage by repealing the Affordable Care Act. Any kind of repeal will be devastating to Florida’s families,” said DNC spokesperson Francisco Pelayo.
BACKGROUND
If the ACA is repealed, 2,230,000 Floridians could lose coverage. According to the Joint Economic Committee, if Senate Republicans vote to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) without a replacement plan 2,230,000 Floridians would lose their health care. [Joint Economic Committee. 7/26/17]
If the ACA is repealed, 181,000 Floridians could lose their jobs. State economies will shed jobs and take a hit to economic growth, 181,000 Floridians could lose their jobs across the health care, construction, retail, and financial industries. [Joint Economic Committee. 7/26/17]
Commissioner Putnam Supports the Florida National Guard’s Efforts to Base F-35 Lightning II with 125th Fighter Wing in Jacksonville
In a continuation of Commissioner Adam H. Putnam’s efforts to make Florida the most military and veteran-friendly state in the country, Commissioner Putnam today wrote Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson a letter, supporting the Florida National Guard’s efforts to base the F-35 Lightning II with the 125th Fighter Wing in Jacksonville.
“For 70 years, the 125th Fighter Wing has served Florida and our country well. With Jacksonville’s unparalleled airspace and infrastructure, no other place in the nation is better suited for a new squadron of F-35 fighters,” stated Commissioner Adam H. Putnam.
To view the letter, please click here.
For more information about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.
Gov. Scott Announces Modernizing Medicine to Create More Than 800 Jobs in Palm Beach County
Governor Rick Scott today announced that Modernizing Medicine plans to expand operations in the historic Boca Raton Innovation Center (BRIC) in Palm Beach County and will add a total of 838 jobs by 2022. Modernizing Medicine is a Florida based company that specializes in healthcare information technology. In addition to the more than 800 new jobs being created, Modernizing Medicine anticipates making a capital investment of more than $15 million in the Boca Raton community.
Governor Scott said, “I am proud that Modernizing Medicine will be expanding in Palm Beach County to create more than 800 new jobs which will provide even more families a great career. Companies like Modernizing Medicine are helping Florida become the best state in the nation for job creation while helping our unemployment rate continue to drop. Now, with the $85 million Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, we will ensure that even more job creators can grow and succeed in Florida.”
Headquartered in Boca Raton, Modernizing Medicine was founded in 2010 by chief executive officer Daniel Cane and chief medical and strategy officer Dr. Michael Sherling and has quickly grown to more than 550 employees. The company empowers physicians with suites of mobile, specialty-specific solutions designed to transform how healthcare information is created, consumed and utilized to increase efficiency and improve outcomes.
Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Cissy Proctor said, “Modernizing Medicine is growing and expanding its medical software company in Florida, which benefits Florida’s families. With more than 800 new jobs created, this company will provide opportunities for hardworking Floridians. We are proud that they chose Florida for its pro-business climate and talented workforce.”
CEO and Co-Founder of Modernizing Medicine Daniel Cane said, “We are extremely excited to expand our presence and create more jobs across a wide range of fields in South Florida. As a Florida-based technology company, it’s not lost on us that we’re in the backyard of where the modern day era of technology was born. We’re proud to work with Enterprise Florida, the City of Boca Raton and the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County to continue to enhance the already stellar reputation as an area of innovation and growth. I look forward to seeing the company’s long-term impact on the community as well as the modernization of medicine.”
Executive Vice President of Enterprise Florida Mike Grissom said, “Florida-grown companies like Modernizing Medicine create the kind of jobs that open new doors for families across the state. I commend our Governor for focusing on business-friendly policies that make companies like Modernizing Medicine want to grow in Florida.”
President and CEO of the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County Kelly Smallridge said, “Modernizing Medicine is an IT powerhouse and a great Palm Beach County success story. It provides hundreds of jobs and its success demonstrates that the county is an ideal location for technology companies to flourish.”
Mayor of Boca Raton Susan Haynie said, “Modernizing Medicine has been a part of the City of Boca Raton’s corporate community since 2012. With their recent acquisitions, and impressive and continued growth, we’re proud that the Modernizing Medicine team has decided to remain headquartered in Boca Raton and create over 800 jobs in our City.”
About Modernizing Medicine
Modernizing Medicine® and its affiliated companies empower physicians with a suite of mobile, specialty-specific solutions that transform how healthcare information is created, consumed and utilized to increase efficiency and improve outcomes. Built for value-based healthcare, Modernizing Medicine’s data-driven, touch- and cloud-based products and services are programmed by a team that includes practicing physicians to meet the unique needs of dermatology, gastroenterology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, otolaryngology, pain management, plastic surgery, rheumatology and urology practices, as well as ambulatory surgery centers. For more information, please visit www.modmed.com.
Enterprise Florida, Inc. (EFI) is a partnership between Florida’s businesses and government leaders and is the principal economic development organization for Florida. EFI facilitates job growth through recruitment and retention, international trade and exporting, promotion of sporting events, and capital funding programs to assist small and minority businesses. EFI launched “Florida – The Future is Here” to promote the state as the nation’s premier business destination.
About the BDB
The Business Development Board of Palm Beach County is the official public/private economic development organization for Palm Beach County and Enterprise Florida. Founded in 1982 as a not-for-profit corporation, our primary purpose is to attract and retain new industry, business investment, high quality jobs and workforce development through corporate relocations, expansions and international trade. During the past five years, the BDB has assisted companies that have created more than 13,000 direct jobs with average salaries greater than $68,000, resulting in more than $627 million in capital investment to Palm Beach County and an economic impact that exceeds $6.95 billion.
Additional information can be found at the BDB’s web site, BDB.org.
WINGS initiative aims to improve guardianship through collaboration
Groups and individuals with a stake in the protection of Floridians who may need or who are currently under legal guardianship are coming together to seek common solutions and better serve the needs of the state’s most vulnerable.
A grant from the American Bar Association’s Commission on Law and Aging and the National Center for State Courts made a Working Interdisciplinary Network of Guardianship Stakeholders, or WINGS, possible in Florida, led by Florida’s courts.
There are 3.5 million Floridians aged 65 or older. A quarter of the state’s population is projected to be aged 65 or older by 2030. Increasingly, Floridians seek help from the State Courts System when they or their loved ones need their interests protected. Guardianship cases for adults have increased steadily, with more than 7,000 cases to establish guardianship filed in the 2015-16 fiscal year. At the same time, these cases have become increasingly complex.
Many state agencies and private organizations target policy and practice issues related to guardianship from their own perspectives and work to advance solutions for specific issues. The WINGS effort aims, instead, to collaboratively map a comprehensive strategy for improved processes and increased effectiveness.
Circuit Judge Jose R. Rodriguez, who works in the Orange County Probate Division on Guardianships and Mental Health cases in the Ninth Judicial Circuit, spoke to those who gathered for an initial WINGS event. He used the Declaration of Independence to encourage attendees.
“Out of the many, we are one. That’s what we have here, the many,” Judge Rodriguez said. “But we come together as one … to brainstorm ideas on how to manage the issues we have both with the aging population, called the Silver Tsunami, as well as with the disabled; intellectually, developmentally and acquired.”
An initial meeting of stakeholders brought together representatives from Florida courts, state executive agencies, private organizations, and advocacy groups. Representatives from the Department of Elder Affairs, the Department of Children and Families, the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council, Disability Rights Florida, the judiciary, and the state court administrator’s office, among others, gathered for the initial meeting in Tallahassee.
Among key issues WINGS sets out to address are insuring adequate protections from exploitation, data collection, education about alternatives to guardianship and restoration of rights, and a review of guardianship statutes. The WINGS effort is complementary to the Supreme Court’s guardianship workgroup, established in 2016 to improve judicial procedures and better protect vulnerable people – children, adults with developmental and mental health disabilities, and the elderly.
“Florida will be positioned to embrace systems change within the guardianship process, avoid unnecessary guardianships, and better identify ways to address financial exploitation,” said Florida State Courts Administrator PK Jameson of the advantages and aims of the WINGS initiative.
CFO Patronis: Florida Will Not Support Maduro’s Brutal Rule
Next week, following the election of a newly-formed National Constituent Assembly, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro may extend his brutal reach with the ability to rewrite Venezuela’s constitution, making it even more important for Florida leaders to stand up and speak out against his oppressive actions.
In response to Governor Rick Scott’s proposal to the Trustees of the Florida State Board of Administration (SBA) that will prohibit the State of Florida from doing business with any organization that supports the Maduro regime, SBA trustee and Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis issued the following statement:
“The Maduro regime is known for inflicting gross human rights abuses against the people of Venezuela, and under no circumstances should Florida’s investment funds be tied to such tyranny.
‘I have confirmed that the Florida Treasury conducts no business with Venezuelan companies that have ties to Maduro’s regime, and I commit my vote as a trustee to reviewing all measures to remove every last investment penny from companies that provide support, in violation of federal law, to the Maduro regime. As we review the Governor’s proposal, I look forward to an open discussion during the upcoming August Cabinet meeting.”
Port Tampa Bay Names Director of Special Projects
Port Tampa Bay announced this week that Jamal Sowell has been named director of special projects. Sowell, a former member of the United States Marine Corps, will support internal, external and special projects. He will also assist the executive team with management oversight and serve as a liaison on a wide variety of port business matters.
He brings a variety of experience from the local, state and federal levels.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jamal to Port Tampa Bay,” said Paul Anderson, president and CEO of Port Tampa Bay. “His diverse background will not only benefit the Port, but the entire Tampa Bay region.”
Sowell, a 6th generation Floridian from Orlando, was most recently involved with the Indiana Journal of Constitutional Design and Center for Constitutional Democracy. During this time, he also worked in Israel for Shurat HaDin and was appointed to the Indiana Board of Health Facility Administrators by Vice President Michael Pence (then Governor Pence).
“Port Tampa Bay’s accomplishments and reputation reverberate across this country,” said Sowell. “I am honored to return home to Florida and work with an outstanding organization like the Port.”
Sowell has previously served as a contributing writer to the Orlando Sentinel, Tallahassee Democrat, Gainesville Sun, and named the 2013 Impact Washington, D.C. Leader of the Year; named to the 2016 Jeb Bush National Veterans Coalition and listed as a 2017 Maverick PAC 40 under 40.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in religion from the University of Florida, master’s degree in higher education administration from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and law degree from the Indiana University Bloomington Maurer School of Law.
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.
Salonz Beauty & Spa Suites Receives PSC’s Triple E Award
Leading the way in innovative salon business models, Salonz Beauty & Spa Suites (Salonz) is also setting an example in saving energy and expenses. With locations in three Florida counties, Salonz’s energy efficiency efforts have earned them the Florida Public Service Commission’s (PSC) July Triple E Award.
“As a salon suite rental chain in Florida, Salonz Beauty & Spa Suites is triple the size of a standard salon and, therefore, has unique energy demands,” said PSC Chairman Julie Brown. “Salonz is making energy savings a priority by maximizing efficiencies when constructing new salons and renovating existing locations. We’re pleased to recognize these efforts.”
During four construction and renovation projects, Salonz successfully utilized Florida Power & Light Company’s (FPL) Business HVAC program, which encourages installation of high efficiency electric heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units. Salonz purchased and installed highly efficient HVAC units and A/C and ERV units with high energy efficiency ratio (EER) ratings for these locations. Together, the upgrades qualified for rebates of more than $2,300.
“With rising energy costs, energy efficiency makes more sense than ever, so we’re trying to do our share to increase efficiencies at both existing salons and new construction,” said Marc Finer with Salonz Beauty & Spa Suites. “Our salon/spa suite rental concept includes 250 independent salon specialists at eight locations in Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties, and we hope to work with FPL on future efficiency upgrades at our other locations.”
“At FPL, we believe all businesses, regardless of size, can improve their bottom line through investments in energy efficiency,” said Brad Gunter, Manager of FPL DSM Energy Efficiency Programs. “We were happy to work with Salonz Beauty & Spa Suites to help them make a smart investment that will help them reduce their energy use and provide immediate and long-term savings.”
Covering the state’s five major geographic areas, each month the PSC presents its Triple E Award to a local business that has accomplished superior energy efficiency. Look for past PSC Triple E Award recipients under Hot Topics on the PSC’s homepage, www.floridapsc.com. The PSC encourages cost-effective conservation and renewable energy to reduce the use of fossil fuels and defer the need for new generating capacity through the Florida Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act.
About Salonz Beauty & Spa Suites
Salonz Beauty & Spa Suites is a unique salon concept–an elegant beauty mall–made up of over 250 independent hair, nail, skin, massage, tanning, and other specialists. We offer what no other salon is able to offer–unparalleled privacy and the most personalized salon experience you can receive. Our health and beauty professionals operate from their very own, private salon suite, setting their own prices and hours and making their own appointments to ensure that you’ll always have a direct connection. The SALONZ environment allows you to satisfy all of your health and beauty needs under one roof for a total salon/spa experience. For more information, visit http://salonzbeautysuites.com/clients.
For additional information, visit www.floridapsc.com.
Follow the PSC on Twitter, @floridapsc.
First Lady Ann Scott Concludes Summer Literacy Adventure at Jonathan Dickinson State Park
First Lady Ann Scott today shared her passion for reading with students from the Tree Top Academy of Palm Beach at the Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound and encouraged them to take the Summer Literacy Adventure pledge to read every day. At the start of the 2017-2018 school year, First Lady Ann Scott will visit the school whose students successfully completed the most pledges during the 2017 Summer Literacy Adventure.
First Lady Ann Scott said, “I had an extraordinary time visiting students around the state and sharing my love of reading during the 2017 Summer Literacy Adventure. I truly believe that a strong foundation of literacy is important for students to achieve their dreams and career goals. I’m so excited to celebrate with the winning school this fall and meet even more of Florida’s outstanding students and educators!”
The First Lady was joined by representatives from the Florida Department of Education, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Florida Lottery. DEP generously provided state park passes, Junior Ranger Activity Folders, pencils and sunglasses for the student participants, and a Florida Lottery sponsorship made it possible for students to leave with a goody bag containing books.
“It is critical that Florida’s students continue to read during the summer months to ensure they are prepared to succeed during the school year,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “I am grateful that First Lady Ann Scott has dedicated her time to inspiring Florida students to share her love of reading.”
“At the Lottery, we remain committed to ensuring Florida’s students become the leaders of tomorrow,” said Secretary Jim Poppell. “It is our hope that as a new school year begins, students continue to develop an appreciation of reading that will stay with them throughout their lifetime.”
The 2017 Summer Literacy Adventure helps keep Florida students excited about reading and literacy. Research shows that children who do not continue reading through the summer can lose a month or more of progress made during the school year. By encouraging their children to read, parents play an important role in ensuring every child reads at or above grade level.
“The Loxahatchee River that runs through Jonathan Dickinson State Park is one of two federally designated Wild and Scenic Rivers in Florida,” said DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein. “I can think of no better setting to learn about the natural beauty of wild Florida.”
Students can fill out their Summer Literacy Adventure Pledge form at 2017 Summer Literacy Adventure.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
