Special Olympics Florida today announced that is has received its fourth consecutive 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator.
“This rating demonstrates the organization’s integrity and dedication to stewarding our supporters’ donations in an efficient and responsible manner,” said Sherry Wheelock, president and CEO of Special Olympics Florida. “Each year, we strive to bring the best quality programs to as many athletes as possible with the utmost transparency and accountability. We thank all our sponsors and volunteers for trusting Special Olympics Florida with their support.”
Founded in 2001, Charity Navigator uses objective, data-driven analysis to rate thousands of charity organizations. Charity Navigator examines a charity’s performance in two areas, financial health and accountability/transparency. The 4-star rating is only given to the most fiscally responsible organizations who are evaluated by 24 metrics.
Special Olympics Florida’s sound fiscal management, high standard of governance and ethics, and commitment to transparency have earned it a 4-star rating, the highest rating attainable, for the past four years. Only 11 percent of U.S. charities have achieved a 4-star rating for four consecutive years.
Special Olympics Florida provides year-round sports training, competition, and health services to children and adults with intellectual disabilities, at no cost to the athletes or their caregivers, as a means to achieve physical fitness, self-esteem, socialization skills, and the life skills necessary to be productive, respected, and contributing members of their communities. As an organization with more than 40,000 athletes and 27,000 volunteers that provides more than $2 million in free health services annually, programmatic quality and fiscal responsibility are viewed as the key to expanding access to services across the state. Learn more at www.specialolympicsflorida.org.
Special Olympics Florida’s rating and other information about charitable giving are available free of charge on www.charitynavigator.org.
Statement from Governor Scott on Expected Severe Weather in Florida Panhandle
Governor Rick Scott today released the following statement regarding severe weather expected to impact the Florida Panhandle this week.
Governor Scott said, “With severe weather including heavy rain and flooding expected across the Florida Panhandle this week, families in Northwest Florida should remain alert to local news and weather updates and make sure they have a plan. I have been monitoring the storm system in the Gulf of Mexico and will continue to receive briefings on possible impacts to our state. Tonight, I will be reaching out to emergency management officials in counties across Northwest Florida to ensure they have everything they need in anticipation of this severe weather system. This is a reminder to all Floridians of the dangerous weather our state faces during hurricane season and the importance of getting a plan to keep your family safe. Visit FloridaDisaster.org today to get a plan and be prepared.”
UCF Student Paddles 800 Miles Down Gulf Coast to Raise Money for Environment
A UCF student is making waves as he paddles nearly 800 miles down Florida’s Gulf Coast this summer.
Cole Kolasa, an environmental engineering major, is documenting his summertime adventure in his blog Kayaking for Conservation. Kolasa started a Go Fund Me page in hopes of raising $10,000 to support artificial reefs in his hometown of Hernando County.
The funds raised will be directly donated to Hernando County for the construction of reef balls to aid the county’s shallow reefs and living shorelines. The money will also support the sinking of a 50-foot concrete sailboat to serve as the county’s first “wreck reef” to attract divers to the coast and raise awareness for the region.
“The Gulf Coast is a beautiful area that needs to be preserved. The money raised will help bolster coastal resilience and shoreline stability,” he said during a phone interview as he paddled through the waters near Homosassa, Florida. “I want to spend my summer raising money to help fund research for local restoration projects.”
Kolasa, born and raised in Brooksville, Florida, spent three months planning his solo voyage before embarking on May 8 from Big Lagoon State Park in Pensacola. The 19-year-old is averaging about 22 miles a day — give or take a few miles depending on Mother Nature — in his 18-and-a-half-foot sea kayak built in the 1980s.
“My kayak is meant for a trip like this,” Kolasa said. “I got stuck in three-to-five foot seas offshore, near Destin. The waves submerged my kayak underwater but I was fine.”
Kolasa’s kayak carries all of the essentials: a tent, bug suit and spray, small stove for cooking easy-to-make meals, Marine radio, flashlights, navigational system, emergency signaling devices, as well as water filtration systems and up to 25 liters of water incase there is no resupply nearby. He charges his phone with portable solar panels.
He carries nearly two weeks worth of food at a time such as trail mix and ramen noodles, and meets up with friends or family to restock along the way. After he’s paddled as far as he can for the day, he stops sleep at primitive campsites along nearby islands or beaches, and sometimes at state parks.
Kolasa has made a few friends throughout his solo-excursion. He’s paddled with the Florida Circumnavigation Saltwater Paddling Trail, as well as friends and family who’ve come out to spend the day with him.
“There’s a lot of support for a trip like this,” Kolassa said. “There’s a network of people that have helped and supported me along the way.”
Several sponsors donated supplies to help Kolasa along his journey. Those companies include Sun Bum, a sunscreen manufacturer based in Cocoa Beach, Travel Country Outfitters, who donated nearly $700 worth of outdoor gear, and Wagan Tech, a company which produces high-end outdoor electronic gear.
“This is an exciting trip for me because I’ve spent so much time outdoors hiking different trails, but this is neat because I get to do those types of activities and live simply all to aid in conservation and restoration of our ecosystems,” Kolasa said. “I’ve finally found a way I can tie two of my favorite things together.”
Kolasa plans to end his journey this June somewhere in the Florida Keys between Islamorada and Marathon. You can keep up with his adventures by following his Facebook page.
Statement from Governor Scott on the Death of FHP Sgt. William Trampas Bishop
Governor Rick Scott today released the below statement following the heartbreaking death of Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) Sergeant William Trampas Bishop last night.
Governor Scott said, “We are heartbroken to learn of the death of 30-year veteran FHP Trooper Sergeant William Trampas Bishop while on duty in Alachua County. Ann and I are praying for Sergeant Bishop’s family and loved ones during this very difficult time. Our thoughts are also with the entire Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and Florida Highway Patrol family as they grieve the loss of Sergeant Bishop. Every day, Florida’s law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect and serve Florida families. This terrible loss is a somber reminder of the work our brave law enforcement officers do to keep us safe.”
Florida Department of State Highlights $4.68 Billion Economic Impact of Arts and Culture in Florida
Arts & Economic Prosperity Report shows nonprofit arts
and culture is a significant industry in the state of Florida
Americans for the Arts, a national nonprofit organization for advancing arts in America, released the Arts and Economic Prosperity 5 report, which highlights the significant impact of nonprofit arts and cultural organizations and their audiences in the state of Florida. According to the report, the nonprofit arts and culture industry in Florida generates $4.68 billion in total economic activity, supports 132,366 full-time jobs and delivers $492.3 million in local and state government revenue.
“At the Florida Department of State, we believe that Culture Builds Florida, and this report sends a strong signal that supporting the arts and culture industry helps to build Florida’s economy and strengthen our state’s identity as the best place to live, work and play in the United States,” said Secretary of State Ken Detzner. “Thanks to the support of Governor Rick Scott and the Florida Legislature, the department provides funding, programs and resources, including grants, to help promote and grow Florida’s arts and cultural industry at the local and state level, and we encourage arts and cultural organizations to reach out to us so we can be of service.”
Other highlights of the report include:
- Spending by nonprofit arts and cultural organizations totaled $2.29 billion in Florida during fiscal year 2015. This spending supports jobs, generates household income for families and supports local businesses.
- During 2015, a total of 121,264 volunteers donated a total of 6,522,918 hours to nonprofit arts and cultural organizations in Florida. This represents an estimated value of $153,679,948 in donated time.
- Nonprofit arts and cultural organizations in Florida reported receiving in-kind contributions worth an estimated $71,073,471 in 2015.
- The nonprofit arts and culture industry leverages a significant amount of event-related spending by its audiences. To measure this impact, 35,967 event attendees were surveyed and they reported a total of $2.39 billion in event-related spending, such as eating at a restaurant, shopping in near-by stores or staying in a hotel.
- In Florida, researchers estimate that 84.8 percent of the 70 million nonprofit arts attendees were residents and 15.2 percent were nonresidents. Nonresident attendees spent an average of 93 percent more per person than local attendees, which highlights the importance of attracting cultural tourists to reap significant economic rewards.
The last study of this depth on the economic impact of arts and culture in Florida was completed in 2009. In 2009, arts and culture generated $3.1 billion in economic activity compared to a $4.68 billion economic impact in 2015 – an increase of $1.58 billion in just six years.
The most recent study gathered data from fiscal year 2015 and was conducted by surveying 1,688 nonprofit arts and cultural organizations as well as 35,967 arts and cultural audience members in Florida. The Division of Cultural Affairs gathered data from participating organizations statewide. Funding for the Florida-specific study was provided by Citizens for Florida Arts.
To view the Arts & Economic Prosperity 5: The Economic Impact of Nonprofit Arts and Cultural Organizations and Their Audiences in the State of Florida report, please click here.
About the Division of Cultural Affairs
The Florida Department of State Division of Cultural Affairs is Florida’s legislatively designated state arts agency. The Division promotes the arts and culture as essential to quality of life for all Floridians. To achieve its mission, the Division funds and supports cultural programs that provide artistic excellence, diversity, education, access and economic vitality for Florida’s communities. For more information, visit dos.myflorida.com/cultural.
Vote Solar & Business Groups Commend Governor Rick Scott for Signing onto Solar
SB 90 – Solar Implementing Bill Signed Today
Florida Governor Rick Scott today signed solar energy legislation, Senate Bill 90 (SB 90), to increase clean energy, solar production and job creation for Florida. SB 90 enacts Amendment 4, a ballot measure receiving an overwhelming 73 percent voter support during last August 30 primary election. The Republican-backed bill also received tremendous lawmaker approval and passed unanimously in both the Florida Senate and House.
Below are statements from the bill sponsors, Vote Solar and many statewide associations in response to Governor Scott’s approval of SB 90.
“Governor Scott’s approval comes on the heels of overwhelming support for solar progress over the last year. In August, nearly 3 of every 4 voters embraced the opportunity to move solar forward in the Sunshine State. During the legislative session, every lawmaker, on both sides of the aisle, delivered on that promise,” said Scott Thomasson, Southeast Director for Vote Solar. “Governor Scott’s approval signals that Florida is open for businesses, jobs and private investments. We thank Senator Jeff Brandes and House Leader Ray Rodrigues for working tirelessly on behalf of Floridians to increase energy choices, create local jobs, and promote healthier communities with solar.”
“Governor Scott answered the will of the voters today by signing Senate Bill 90, the sunshine state solar initiative allowing tax exemptions for business to install solar panels as an energy resource. This legislation implemented Amendment 4 from the August 30 primary, which passed by an overwhelming 73 percent vote,” said Senator Jeff Brandes (R, St. Petersburg). “I look forward to continuing our work to diversify Florida’s energy economy, so we can live up to our title as the Sunshine State and lead in renewable energy.”
“I commend Governor Scott for signing Senate Bill 90 and I am proud this legislation will move Florida closer to being a leading state for new solar jobs,” said House Majority Leader Ray Rodrigues (R, Estero). “We were able to pass a balanced bill that will boost solar in Florida while ensuring customers are protected, thanks to constructive input from groups like the Solar Energy Industries Association and Vote Solar, who helped get this important legislation over this finish line.”
“The Florida Chamber of Commerce applauds Governor Scott for leveling the playing field between commercial and residential solar by signing this bill into law,” said Christopher Emmanuel, Director of Infrastructure and Governance Policy at the Florida Chamber of Commerce.
“The Florida Retail Federation commends Governor Rick Scott for answering the will of the voters and signing SB 90 which implements solar Amendment 4,” said R. Scott Shalley, President of the Florida Retail Federation. “This law will help retailers throughout the sunshine state take advantage of needed incentives for solar energy.”
“A victory lap to the finish line on solar energy today. The Governor signed what 2 million voters called for last election cycle in Amendment 4,” said Julio Fuentes, President of the Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “Our members include more than 604,000 Hispanic owned small businesses who support energy diversity and thank the Governor for signing and allowing this implementing bill to become law.”
“Tourism is Florida’s leading industry. Visitors and residents alike, will benefit from the energy savings resulting from the Governor allowing Amendment 4 to be implemented,” said Richard Turner, General Counsel and Vice President of Government Relations for the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. “The hospitality industry is excited to support our lawmakers’ smart policies that promote sustainability and diversify our energy grid.”
All Florida lawmakers worked closely with clean energy and jobs advocates, including Vote Solar, the Solar Energy Industries Association, Advanced Energy Economy, and The Alliance for Solar Choice, to pass legislation that best serves Florida businesses and residents. The final bill has earned praise from a range of business, consumer and environmental organizations, including The Nature Conservancy, Florida Conservation Voters, and Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.
Governor Rick Scott Signs 13 Bills Into Law
Governor Rick Scott today signed the following bills into law:
CS/CS/CS/SB 118 – Criminal History Records – This bill prevents businesses that publish arrest photos from charging a fee to remove them if requested.
CS/SB 90 – Renewable Energy Source Devices – This bill implements the constitutional amendment approved by the voters for a tax exemption on renewable energy devices.
CS/CS/SB 474 – Hospice Care – This bill directs the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the Agency for Health Care Administration to adopt national hospice outcome measures.
CS/SB 494 – Compensation of Victims of Wrongful Incarceration – This bill expands the eligibility requirements of the Victims of Wrongful Incarceration Compensation Act.
CS/CS/SB 724 – Estates – This bill revises provisions relating to the elective share of an estate.
CS/SB 1520 – Termination of a Condominium Association – This bill revises requirements for the termination of a condominium association.
CS/SB 1694 – Support for Parental Victims of Child Domestic Violence – This bill allows the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice to coordinate with organizations to enhance resources available to parents who are victims of domestic violence.
CS/CS/SB 1726 – Industrial Hemp Pilot Projects – This bill authorizes the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to oversee the University of Florida and the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in developing industrial hemp pilot projects.
SB 2504 – Collective Bargaining – This bill resolves collective bargaining issues.
SB 2506 – Clerks of the Court – This bill makes changes to the clerks of court budget process to ensure adequate funding.
SB 2508 – Division of State Group Insurance – This bill allows for an audit of dependent eligibility for the state group insurance program and revises pharmacy benefits.
SB 2510 – Public Records/ Dependent Eligibility Verification Services – This bill creates a public records exemption for information collected when determining a dependent’s eligibility for the state group insurance program.
SB 2514 – Health Care – This bill conforms health care statutes to the funding policies used in the General Appropriations Act.
To view the transmittal letters, click HERE.
FDLE arrests Miami man for child pornography
Agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement today arrested Ignacio Calvo, 89, of 2451 Brickell Ave., Miami for computer pornography and transmitting child pornography.
FDLE special agents, with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations, executed a search warrant at Calvo’s home and seized a laptop belonging to him. Preliminary forensic examinations recovered at least 10 images of suspected child pornography, some involving children as young as 2 to 3 years old.
Calvo was booked into Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. The case will be prosecuted by the Office of the State Attorney, 11th Judicial Circuit.
Click here to visit the Secure Florida website to review tips for keeping your children safe online.
Online Reservations for Florida State Forest Campsites Now Available
Florida has long been recognized as having one of the finest and most diversified state forest systems in the United States, and today Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam and the Florida Forest Service announced that residents and visitors can now reserve campsites at all of Florida’s state forests online. Florida has 37 state forests with more than a million acres of natural Florida to explore.
“Florida’s natural attractions are second to none, and visitors and residents alike can now conveniently plan their trips to one of Florida’s 37 states forests and reserve their campsites online,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam.
Florida’s state forests offer a variety of camping options throughout the state. Developed campsites for tents and RVs have electricity, water, fire rings and picnic tables, along with centralized restrooms with showers. Primitive campsites and group camps offer an assortment of amenities depending on their location, while primitive camp zones provide a backcountry experience in remote settings with no amenities.
With this new online service, residents and visitors can now conveniently search for RV, tent, trailer, horse, boat, primitive or group camping opportunities across the state. Interested individuals simply need to create an account and start planning their next adventure.
The Florida Forest Service manages more than 1 million acres of public forest land while protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire on more than 26 million acres. To learn more about Florida Forest Service programs, visit FloridaForestService.com.
Mallea Praises Trump's Cuba Policy Changes
The HD 116 candidate calls out Daniel Perez for turning a blind eye to Cuban oppression.
Jose Mallea today made the following statement regarding the changes in U.S. policy toward Cuba announced by President Trump:
“President Trump has done the right thing today by beginning to roll back the anti-freedom Obama administration policies toward Cuba. As it has sadly been for decades, Cuba’s government remains a repressive, Communist, military regime.
“It is disappointing that so many Americans, including Daniel Perez, who benefit from the freedoms we enjoy in our beloved country, look the other way when it comes to our neighbors in Cuba. While Cubans continue to struggle economically and many suffer under serious human rights abuses, we must enact policies that will help reform the Castro government, not reward it.
“Any U.S. policy that normalizes Cuban oppression has to go, and I stand with President Trump in this good and important fight.”
