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Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office Urges Floridians to Celebrate Safely this Fourth of July

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Ahead of Tuesday’s Independence Day celebrations, the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office urges Floridians to celebrate safely when using fireworks and sparklers. According the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission reports more than 11,000 fireworks-related emergency room visits in the U.S. during 2016.
To help Florida families stay safe this season, they are encouraged to keep the following tips in mind:
Contact local officials. Verify if your local community has imposed a burn ban due to drought conditions.
Use only approved products. Many dangerous and illegal fireworks, rockets and explosive devices are readily available for purchase. By Florida law, these are unlawful for private fireworks displays and are significantly more likely to cause fires.

  • Do not sign a waiver in order to purchase illegal fireworks. Signing a waiver will not clear a consumer of responsibility if caught illegally using fireworks.
  • Only purchase products from licensed vendors.

Control your environment. Fireworks should be used only on sand, concrete or another non-flammable surface, away from brush, trash or other objects that could catch fire.

  • Never give fireworks (including sparklers) to young children, as they can reach temperatures between 1,300 and 1,800 degrees, which is at least 200 degrees hotter than a standard butane lighter.
  • Keep pets indoors and away from all fireworks.
  • Light only one item at a time and never attempt to re-light.

Be prepared. Have a fire extinguisher or a hose and a bucket of water readily available.
Attend a public fireworks show. Be safe, not sorry. Many local governments make significant investments to put on professional fireworks shows. Consider attending one in your area instead of lighting your own.
For a complete list of Florida-approved fireworks Florida families can enjoy, click here.

Florida consumer sentiment rebounds upward in June

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Consumer sentiment among Floridians rose 2.1 points in June to 96.4, changing course after two months of decline.
Among the five components that make up the index, four increased and one decreased.
Survey respondents’ perceptions of their personal financial situation now compared with a year ago showed the greatest increase, up 6.4 points from 85.5 to 91.9. “Importantly, all Floridians share these perceptions, independent of their age, gender or income,” said Hector H. Sandoval, director of the Economic Analysis Program at UF’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research.
Opinions as to whether now is a good time to buy a big-ticket household item such as an appliance increased 1.7 points to 102, although readings vary across demographic groups. “In particular, positive perceptions are seen among women, those under age 60 and those with an annual income of $50,000 and over, while they are negative among men, seniors and those with income under $50,000,” Sandoval said.
Expectations of personal finances a year from now rose 3.5 points to 104.8. “Overall, Floridians appear to be more optimistic. Most of the increase is due to the positive perceptions of consumers’ current and future personal finance situation,” Sandoval said.
Views on the future of the U.S. economy were mixed: Expectations of U.S. economic conditions over the upcoming year dropped 1.8 points to 91.8; however, anticipation of U.S. economic conditions over the next five years ticked up eight-tenths of a point from 90.8 to 91.6.
The labor market in Florida has continued to strengthen, adding jobs on a monthly basis. Since the beginning of 2017, the unemployment rate has declined steadily. The Florida unemployment rate in May was 4.3 percent, down two-tenths of a percentage point from April. As of May, the number of jobs added statewide over the last year came to 228,000, a 2.7 percent increase that outpaces the nation’s job growth rate of 1.6 percent.
The positive outlook of Floridians may also be fueled by cheaper prices at the gas pump, the lowest in over a decade going into the Fourth of July travel season. Having a few extra dollars left over after each fill-up may contribute to feelings of financial well-being.
Nationwide, economic activity has increased and inflation has declined on a 12-month basis. As a result, last month the Federal Reserve decided to raise the federal funds target range to between 1 percent and 1.25 percent.
“This change will eventually be transmitted to other interest rates, including car loans, credit cards and mortgages,” Sandoval said. “The evolution of consumer perceptions as to whether it is a good time to buy a big household item in the following months will be an important indicator in assessing how the increased interest rates affect consumption.”
Conducted June 1-28, the UF study reflects the responses of 479 individuals who were reached on cellphones, representing a demographic cross section of Florida.
The index used by UF researchers is benchmarked to 1966, which means a value of 100 represents the same level of confidence for that year. The lowest index possible is a 2, the highest is 150.
Details of this month’s survey can be found at http://www.bebr.ufl.edu/csi-data.

The Florida Lottery is giving players four new ways to win for life

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Scratch-Off games. The four new games range in price from $1 to $10, and feature more than $332 million in cash prizes and more than 30 million winning tickets! All Lottery retailers are expected to have these new tickets in stock and available for purchase within 72 hours.
The $10 game, $5,000 A WEEK FOR LIFE, offers the largest top prize available on a $10 Scratch-Off ticket, and features more than $148 million in cash prizes! The game’s overall odds of winning are one-in-3.35.
The $5 game, $2,500 A WEEK FOR LIFE, offers more than $103 million in cash prizes and over 7.5 million winning tickets! The game’s overall odds of winning are one-in-3.95.
The $2 game, $1,000 A WEEK FOR LIFE, has more than 10 million winning tickets, including eight top prizes of $1,000 a week for life! The game’s overall odds of winning are one-in-4.43.
The $1 game, $500 A WEEK FOR LIFE, offers more than $19 million in total cash prizes and over six million winning tickets! The game’s overall odds of winning are one-in-4.97.
Three drawings will be held between July 26 and September 6, 2017, for non-winning WEEK FOR LIFE tickets entered into the Cash Supply Second Chance Promotion. In each of the three drawings, one player will win $25,000, three players will win $10,000, three players will win $5,000, and 30 players will win $1,000. Players can also earn up to 15 extra entries each week by entering a special social media promo code that will be posted to the Florida Lottery’s official Facebook page each week during the second chance promotion. For more information about these games and the second chance promotion, visit www.flalottery.com.
Scratch-Off games are an important part of the Lottery’s portfolio of games, comprising approximately 65 percent of ticket sales and generating more than $734 million for the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF) in fiscal year 2015-16.

DCF Reminds Families to Stay Safe While Celebrating Independence Day

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The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) reminds parents and caregivers to take extra precautions to keep their children safe during the busy holiday weekend. Independence Day is an important time to reflect on the nation’s history and celebrate our freedom; but it is also important to take some simple steps to ensure your family’s safety.
Whether　on the playground or at a campground, make sure your family stays safe as you celebrate Independence Day,” DCF Secretary Mike Carroll said. “As Florida’s summer heat draws many of us to water on the weekends and holidays, remember that drowning remains a leading cause of death for children in our communities and can be prevented by adult supervision.”
Here are a few family safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Use good judgment when going boating. Make sure every passenger uses flotation devices and children are always secured by an adult while on a vessel.
  • There should always be an unimpaired adult actively watching children playing around or swimming in pools. When a child falls into a pool or a swimmer begins struggling, every second counts in preventing a drowning.
  • Be sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying and always follow all safety instructions. When lighting fireworks, including sparklers, always have water handy, such as a hose or bucket.
  • Use your grill well away from your home and deck, and out from under branches or overhangs.
  • If you attend a large event, plan ahead by determining a safe place to meet in case your family gets separated.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to follow these simple precautions to have a safe holiday.

Jimmy Patronis Brings Business Expertise to Department of Financial Services

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Today in Tallahassee, Jimmy Patronis was officially sworn in as Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, replacing Jeff Atwater who is leaving state government to pursue a career in higher education. As a former member of the Florida House of Representatives and a successful business owner, Patronis brings to the Department a unique expertise of the Florida economy as well as private sector perspective on many of the Department’s key issues, such as financial accountability, protecting employees from the harmful effects of on-the-job injuries, contract management and the importance of providing consumer services aimed at improving the quality of life of all Floridians.
“Florida is without a doubt the best place to live, work and raise a family,” said Chief Patronis. “I am honored to serve my fellow Floridians in this capacity, and I look forward to continuing the legacy of CFO Jeff Atwater in creating the same opportunities and success that my family has seen for all Floridians.”
The Chief Financial Officer oversees the Department of Financial Services, serves as Florida’s State Fire Marshal and as a member of the Florida Cabinet.
The Department of Financial Services manages the state’s accounting and auditing functions, monitors the investment of state funds and manages Florida’s risk management program. The Department also serves as the clearinghouse for insurance information, licensing insurance agents and addressing consumer complaints involving insurance companies. Law enforcement units aggressively fight insurance and public assistance fraud and ensure that employers adequately provide workers’ compensation insurance for employees.
Jimmy Patronis was born and raised in the Florida Panhandle. The Patronis Family owns and operates Captain Anderson’s, a Panama City restaurant currently celebrating its 50th anniversary. He served in the Florida House from 2006 to 2014, and has earned degrees from Gulf State College and Florida State University.

FWC urges Fourth of July boaters to be careful, use beacons and enjoy Florida’s waterways

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During the Fourth of July holiday, many people take to the water to celebrate Independence Day. The warm, sunny days of summer combined with viewing fireworks puts many more boats and people on the water in close proximity to one another.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) urges boaters to use caution while boating on this busy holiday. Many boating accidents are caused by inattentiveness or improper lookout.
“Boat operators have a personal responsibility to make sure their passengers are safe and they are not creating a hazard for other boaters,” said Capt. Gary Klein, Florida’s boating law administrator. “We all expect to have a good time when we celebrate the Fourth of July. No one expects anything to go wrong, but that can all change in an instant if someone is not paying attention or is operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”
During this weekend, boaters can expect to see an enhanced law enforcement presence and increased messaging about safe boating practices.
Beginning July 1, Floridians have another great reason to purchase and register an emergency locator beacon. Gov. Rick Scott and the Florida Legislature have instituted discounted vessel registration fees for anyone who owns a recreational vessel equipped with an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon or a Personal Locator Beacon.
“For many boaters an EPRIB or PLB can make a big difference if an emergency occurs,” said Klein. “These devices send a signal via satellite to search-and-rescue agencies so rescuers can more quickly locate the boaters in need.”
More information on EPIRBs is available at MyFWC.com/Boating by clicking on “Safety and Education.”
More information on the new discounted vessel registration law can be found at the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles’ website.

DCF Partners with Barry University to Host a Two-Week Life and Job Skills Training for Former Foster Youth

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The Department of Children and Families’ (DCF) Fostering Success Program, in collaboration with the Barry University School of Social Work in Miami, recently held a commencement ceremony marking the completion of two-week professional life skills and employment readiness program for the young adults participating in the program.
Twelve former foster youth participated in an immersive developmental and professional job skills training opportunity to help better prepare them for the workforce. Participants were housed on campus, paired with a mentor, and participated in training which focused on personal and professional development, public speaking, cultural diversity, and technology in the workplace.
“We are thankful for the partnership with Barry University to provide an additional opportunity for our youth to develop their professional skills,” said DCF Secretary Mike Carroll. “This is the future of Florida’s workforce; it is imperative that we continue to support skills training for young adults in Florida’s child welfare system. We look forward to following their journeys and watching them grow in and outside of the workplace.”
The program operates jointly between DCF, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Youth (ages 18 and up) participating in the program have the opportunity to gain professional work experience in a supportive environment by obtaining employment in a paid entry-level position in a participating state agency.
“We appreciate Representative Albritton and the Florida Legislature for giving us the opportunity to help pilot this program,” said FDACS Director of Administration Joey Hicks. “This program not only provides an environment for growth and learning for the young adults in the program, but it equally benefits our employees who participate as mentors.  With the added support of DCF and FWC, we’re already seeing increased opportunity for these young adults in personal and professional skill development.”
The program’s goal is to help emancipated foster youth develop the habits, attitudes, and skills they need to get and keep a job, become self-sufficient and economically stable, and reach personal success. The program also offers its participants developmental skills training, mentoring services, and any needed additional support, such as transportation, housing, and food assistance.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to welcome seven bright young people to the FWC from the Fostering Success Program,” said FWC Executive Director Nick Wiley. “This program provides multiple benefits. We’re able to provide participants with high-quality on-the-job training that prepares them for a future career. And it allows us the opportunity to immerse them in our conservation mission. Not only does this support the FWC’s efforts to create the next generation that cares about conservation, it may also lead participants to consider a career path at the FWC.”
The Fostering Success program was established in 2014 to help reduce and prevent the unnecessary struggles experienced when aging out of the foster care system by providing life and job skills education, job placement services, and collaborative efforts to strengthen and expand community partnerships.
“It is such a blessing to our young people emerging out of foster care to have opportunities to build careers in our state agencies, with Barry University equipping them,” said Representative Albritton. “When we started the program, I only dreamed and hoped that this simple idea would yield so much good.  Simply put, I’m deeply blessed to be part of Fostering Success team!  THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT!” 
The Fostering Success Program is currently only operated within the city of Tallahassee and administered by DCF, FDACS, and FWC.

Gulf County Resident Jason Shoaf Appointed to Triumph Gulf Coast Board of Directors

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Port St. Joe Native Joins Board Tasked with Economic Recovery, Diversification, and Enhancement of Counties Disproportionately Affected by the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

Florida Senate President Joe Negron (R-Stuart) today appointed Jason Shoaf of Port St. Joe to the Board of Directors of Triumph Gulf Coast, Inc. Mr. Shoaf serves as the Vice President of St. Joe Natural Gas Company.
“Jason Shoaf is a lifelong resident of the Florida Panhandle with deep roots in Gulf County. He has a passion for the community and is committed to seeing the full economic recovery of Northwest Florida,” said President Negron. “His business background and record of service to his community make him an excellent addition to the already prestigious board of directors.”
“For the better part of the last decade, our communities have been feeling the impacts of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. The legislation we passed earlier this year affirms our longstanding commitment to keep these critical funds in Northwest Florida,” said Senator Bill Montford (D-Tallahassee), who represents Gulf County in the Florida Senate. “Jason Shoaf is a family man and community leader who will be a great advocate for, not only Gulf County, but our entire region.”
Earlier this year, the Florida Legislature unanimously passed and Governor Scott signed into law House Bill 7077, which amended the Gulf Coast Economic Corridor Act to ensure funds received in the settlement of the state’s economic damage claims caused by the 2010 Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill remain in Northwest Florida’s eight disproportionately affected counties.
The eight disproportionally affected counties receive 75 percent of all economic damage settlement funds received by the state. House Bill 7077 immediately appropriates the initial settlement payment to Triumph Gulf Coast, Inc., and releases subsequent settlement payments directly to Triumph Gulf Coast, Inc., no later than 30 days after they are received by the state. As required by the new law, the initial settlement payment of $300 million has been dispersed to Triumph Gulf Coast.
Former House Speaker Allan Bense chairs the board. He is joined on the board by Stan Connally Jr., Pam Dana, Stephen Riggs IV, and Bob Bonezzi.  The President of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Governor, Attorney General, and Chief Financial Officer, each appointed one board member.
House Bill 7077 requires the addition of two new appointees to the current five-member board, expanding the board to seven members. The President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives must each appoint an additional member from the private sector in one of the four least populous disproportionately affected counties ensure that two such counties are represented on the board.
Background:
In 2013, the Legislature created Triumph Gulf Coast, Inc., to ensure economic damage settlement funds coming to the state would both benefit the eight disproportionately affected counties and be properly accounted for. The Triumph Gulf Coast Board is tasked to make awards to programs and projects that meet the priorities for economic recovery, diversification, and enhancement of the disproportionately affected counties. The corporation is required to abide by the state’s public record laws and public meeting notice requirements.
The eight Florida counties disproportionately affected by the Deepwater Horizon Spill include: Bay, Escambia, Franklin, Gulf, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton, and Wakulla Counties.

ICYMI: Trumbull Congratulates Patronis on CFO Appointment

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 In case you missed it, State Representative Jay Trumbull released the following statement today following the swearing-in of Jimmy Patronis as Florida’s Chief Financial Officer:
“I want to congratulate my friend, Jimmy Patronis, on his first official day as Florida’s Chief Financial Officer. With his business background and his experience in public service, he’s a great choice for the job. Having him in the Florida Cabinet is a huge win for Bay County and all of Florida, and I look forward to working with him.”
About Jay Trumbull for State Representative
Born and raised in Panama City, Florida, Jay Trumbull Jr. graduated from Bay High School and then from Auburn University with a degree in Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship. The Trumbull family has been in the bottled water and water conditioning business for over 4 generations and owns 6 Culligan dealerships in Panama City; Ft. Walton; Dothan, Alabama; Mobile, Alabama; Tifton, Georgia; and Americus, Georgia. Jay started out driving a truck for the first 2 years and then later became a part of the dealer management team. Jay is active in local business community organizations, including the Bay County Chamber of Commerce and the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce. Jay married his high school sweetheart, Brittany Fishel. They are members of the First United Methodist Church of Panama City and are both active in the community.
ON THE WEB:  www.jaytrumbull.com

Paid by Jay Trumbull, Republican, for State Representative

Donalds Congratulates Renner

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State Representative Byron Donalds today made the following statement following the election of State Representative Paul Renner as leader of the Republican freshman class:
“I want to congratulate my friend and colleague Paul Renner on his election as our 2016 Republican class leader. I am confident he will do an outstanding job in the role, and I look forward to working with him. I was honored to be a candidate, and I also congratulate Jamie Grant and Erin Grall on the fine races they ran. Now that this election is behind us, let’s look forward to working together to put conservative policies in place that will create jobs and a brighter future for all Floridians.”
About Byron Donalds for State Representative
Byron Donalds works in finance, insurance, and banking in Southwest Florida. Over the past five years, he has been a featured speaker on national and statewide policy and politics and is a regular guest on Daybreak with Drew Steele on 92.5 Fox News FM, The Bob Harden Show, and The Joe Whitehead Show on 98.9 WGUF. Donalds was appointed by Gov. Rick Scott to the Board of Trustees for Florida Southwestern State College, formerly Edison State College. He serves as a founding board member for a public charter school in Naples, an Advisory Board member for the Salvation Army of Collier County, and a youth leader at Living Word Family Church. In 2012, he carried Collier County in the Republican primary to succeed Connie Mack as U.S. Representative. Donalds graduated from Florida State University. He lives in Naples with his wife, Erika, and his three sons.
ON THE WEB:  www.ByronDonalds.com

Paid by Byron Donalds, Republican, for State Representative