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Media Advisory from the Florida Legislative Black Caucus

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Senator Perry Thurston, Chairman of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus will hold a press conference tomorrow morning to discuss State Attorney Aramis Ayala’s Death Penalty Decision and the subsequent action of Governor Rick Scott’s interference with her prosecutorial independence. Senator Thurston will be joined by, all Senators and Representatives of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus.
The Press event will be held at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 23, 2017, on the Plaza Level of the Capitol.

Florida Department of Education Mourns the Loss of Dr. Brian Dassler

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The education community lost one of its brightest stars with the passing yesterday of Deputy Chancellor of Educator Quality Dr. Brian Dassler. Please see below for the remarks Commissioner Stewart made today during the State Board of Education meeting:
Yesterday was one of the saddest days of both my professional career and my life. I am heartbroken over the loss of our dear friend and colleague, Dr. Brian Dassler. He joined the Florida Department of Education in 2013 and brought with him an unrivaled passion for students, educators and the field of education as a whole.
It is only fitting that he was scheduled to be recognized during this meeting for having volunteered 50 hours as mentor between July 1st and December 31st 2016. For Brian, it wasn’t enough that he spent countless hours encouraging students and providing professional development to educators in his official capacity. In his free time, he also mentored a student at Godby High School here in Tallahassee.
Brian was one of a kind. He was always the first to highlight the positive in any situation, and through his inherent goodness and relentless drive, he inspired others to go the extra mile and believe they too could make a difference.
For evidence of that fact, look no further than the position Brian held before becoming Deputy Chancellor – founding principal of a charter high school in New Orleans and the chief academic officer of the arts conservatory for the state of Louisiana. He went to New Orleans Post-Katrina – at a time when lifelong residents weren’t even sure they would ever return.
That was Brian.
He fiercely believed in the city and its people, and more than anything, he could not turn his back on a group of students and educators who had already been dealt one of the worst hands our nation has ever witnessed.
It comes as no surprise that the school and its students succeeded. And, in typical Brian fashion, he maintained the relationships he had built during that time and he returned regularly to celebrate in the achievements of his former students and colleagues who had seamlessly become friends.
Brian was always destined for greatness. Even in his first job, as a high school English teacher in Broward County, his impact was significant. He was one of the founding teachers of the Urban Teacher Academy Program and he was recognized as the county’s teacher of the year.
I believe he was able to achieve so much in his short 38 years because he never lost his desire to learn. Brian earned bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees from the University of Florida where he has twice been named an outstanding young alumnus.
We are truly heartbroken. His loss will be deeply felt throughout the nation, and he will never be forgotten.

Florida Inventors Hall of Fame Names UCF Researcher

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A University of Central Florida engineer who is recognized worldwide as a leader in power electronics and whose work led to the creation of the first compact single-solar photovoltaic panel has been named as a 2017 inductee to the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame.
Issa Batarseh, a professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and director of the Florida Solar Energy Center’s Energy System Integration Division, was selected because of the depth of his research and his propensity for transferring the knowledge to the market through his two successful startup companies.
“Dr. Batarseh’s work is reflective of UCF’s emphasis on collaboration to bring discoveries and inventions from the lab to the marketplace,” said Elizabeth Klonoff, vice president for research and dean of the College of Graduate Studies. “There is no higher honor than having your peers recognize your contributions to making significant change in the world. We join Dr. Batarseh’s peers in applauding his exemplary work.”
Eight inductees from across the state were named Wednesday and will be honored at the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame’s fourth annual induction ceremony and gala Sept. 8 at the Hilton Tampa Downtown.
“This recognition is only possible because of the excellent research and development done by my students over the years” Batarseh said. “I owe my success to the success of my research team and the support we continue to receive from the Office of Research and Commercialization at UCF.”
Nominees, who must have at least one U.S. patent and a connection to Florida, were nominated through an open nomination process and elected by a selection committee comprising distinguished leaders in research and innovation throughout Florida.
Batarseh, who has been at UCF since 1991, holds 28 U.S. patents for technologies focused on the development of advanced systems for solar energy conversion to improve cost, power density, efficiency and performance.
He is the co-founder of Petra Solar (now Petra Systems), formed in 2006 by licensing Batarseh’s technology to distribute and control solar power from panels and feed it directly into the grid. Shortly after formation, the company received $14 million in venture capital funding for product development and global market expansion. The company established its research and development activities in the Central Florida Research Park and hired UCF graduates, many trained by Batarseh. In 2011, Petra System raised an additional $40 million in venture funding. One of the company’s successes was supplying New Jersey with more than 200,000 utility pole-mounted solar units.
Batarseh and his students also co-founded the Advanced Power Electronic Corporation, also located in the Central Florida Research Park. The company, which completed the UCF Business Incubation Program, is still run by UCF’s graduates. The company specializes in solar energy conversion and integration technologies and is a leading designer of solar chargers for military applications.
Because Batarseh is recognized as a leader in the industry, a publisher is working with him to develop an all-interactive, electrical engineering e-book that will be used to train the next generation of students.
Batarseh is the third UCF researcher to be named to the hall of fame. Shin-Tson Wu, a professor of optics, was inducted into the inaugural class in 2014, and M.J. Soileau, professor emeritus of optics, was named last year.
“The accomplishments of this year’s inductees have been recognized by national and international organizations with many other honors and awards,” said Paul R. Sanberg, chair of the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame advisory board, senior vice president for research, innovation and economic development at the University of South Florida, and a 2015 inductee. “We are honored to be inducting them into the hall of fame.”
The Florida Inventors Hall of Fame was recognized by the Florida Senate in 2014 with a resolution sponsored by Sen. Jeff Brandes that commended the hall “for its commitment to honoring inventors and celebrating innovation, discovery and excellence.” The hall of fame is at the University of South Florida in Tampa and supported, in part, by the Florida High Tech Corridor Council.
More information is at www.FloridaInvents.org  or contact [email protected].
The Florida Inventors Hall of Fame recognizes and commends Florida inventors whose achievements have advanced the quality of life for Floridians, the state and the nation. Founded in 2013 and housed in the University of South Florida Research Park in Tampa, the hall was recognized by Florida Senate Resolution 1756 in April 2014. The hall of fame encourages individuals of all ages and backgrounds to strive toward the betterment of Florida and society through continuous, groundbreaking innovation, and by commending the incredible scientific work being accomplished in the state, to further the growth of Florida’s innovation sector. FloridaInvents.org

Florida House Votes to Kill Florida Defense Alliance

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Governor Rick Scott today criticized the Florida House’s vote to eliminate the Florida Defense Alliance, which is included in HB 7005 that eliminates Enterprise Florida, during the Fighting for Florida Jobs Roundtable in Seminole. The Florida Defense Alliance, which is part of Enterprise Florida, is a crucial partner to the Florida Defense Support Task Force, which protects and strengthens Florida’s military installations ahead of any potential Department of Defense realignment or closure actions. The Florida Defense Alliance also advocate for both active and retired Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, National Guard, reserves, and family members that rely on these installations. Florida’s military installations contribute more than $79.8 billion in economic impact, and the defense industry supports more than 774,000 jobs in Florida.

Governor Scott said, “[The Florida House] didn’t just vote to get rid of Enterprise Florida and make it very difficult for VISIT FLORIDA to operate, they did other things. We have 20 military bases and three unified commands in this state. It’s a big part of our economy- in different parts of our state, it’s very big. They said they want to get rid of the [Florida Defense Alliance.] That’s what helps keeps our military bases here. Every so often, as you know, they have BRAC [Base Realignment and Closure], where they review whether they’re going to keep military bases. So we, every year, try to figure out how we can help our bases solve all of their problems. We make sure they don’t have encroachment issues, make sure their kids can get in the right schools, all of these things. The [Florida Defense Alliance] helps do that. They voted to eliminate it. And there are other programs that help jobs. It doesn’t make sense.” 

Statement from Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce re: House Bill 81

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Statement by Julio Fuentes, President/CEO,
Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Following the passage of House Bill 81 in the Commerce Committee 

“The Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce applauds the passage of House Bill 81 today in the Commerce Committee. Representatives demonstrated their support for this pro-business, common sense bill and we are pleased the legislation will be heard on the House floor this session. With the companion bill, SB 106, being voted on by the full Senate tomorrow, Florida is one step closer to joining 30 other states in providing all retailers with a level playing field and the tools to compete in today’s modern society. As advocates for our state’s hardworking Hispanic business owners, we are proud to stand with the Floridians for Fair Business Practices coalition and encourage legislators to fully repeal the antiquated Alcohol Separation Law.”
Floridians for Fair Business Practices is a coalition of retailers and business groups whose purpose is to identify rules and regulations, which prohibit the growth and expansion of Florida businesses. For additional information, please visit www.FairBizinFlorida.com.
 

Hundreds Gather in Tallahassee to Urge Ban on Fracking, Support Solar Energy, and Protect Clean Water

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Environmental, social justice, labor, business groups, and legislators show wide support
for permanent fracking ban, renewable energy production, and water protection

Hundreds of Floridians gathered together in the state capitol today to urge elected officials to pass a fracking ban, commit to increasing renewable energy sources, and protect our waterways.
The diverse group, including elected officials, members of ReThink Energy Florida, Food & Water Watch, Sierra Club, Environment Florida, Floridians Against Fracking, Physicians for Social Responsibility, Organize Florida, Florida Conservation Voters, and others cited over 900 health studies for why fracking has no place in the Sunshine State.
“Banning fracking in Florida is one of the best things we can do to protect our treasured waterways, public health, and economy,” said State Senator Jack Latvala (R-Clearwater). “I stand with the 90 cities and counties in Florida that have passed ordinances or resolutions calling on us, the State Legislature, to pass this important legislation.”
Nationwide opposition to hydraulic fracturing has escalated dramatically over the past year as public awareness of its impacts grows.
“The time has finally come to end this dangerous practice,” said State Senator Gary Farmer (D-Ft. Lauderdale). “This bill represents the now bipartisan recognition that Florida’s unique geological makeup leaves our water supply particularly vulnerable and must be protected.”
The gathering follows introduction of a bicameral, bipartisan fracking ban bill in the Florida Legislature with widespread support. Senator Dana Young (R-Tampa), present at the event, introduced the bill into the Senate. Representative Mike Miller (R-Orlando) introduced the House ban bill on the same day. Both ban bills have received overwhelming bipartisan support, garnering dozens of cosponsors from around the state.
Students from Cornerstone Learning Community in Tallahassee attended in support of the legislation as well.
“We, as the future generation, understand how important it is to protect our water, animals, and environment from the dangers of fracking,” said Claire Encinosa, a 5th grader speaking on behalf of her class at the Cornerstone Learning Community.“Fracking will not just pollute our world but also make us sick, cause birth defects, and even cancer. We want the Florida Legislature to ban fracking for the future.”
Advocates also called for strong, common-sense implementation of Amendment 4, the pro-solar initiative 73% of voters passed last August, which makes it easier for businesses to implement solar energy.
“With the overwhelming support of Amendment 4, the doors are wide open for solar power in the Sunshine State,” said Clifford Mitchem, Independent Energy Adviser for CREW, a member-owned solar cooperative. “It’s now up to our legislators to help us walk through the door.”
After this year’s toxic algae outbreaks, just as many are calling for the preservation and protection of our precious water resources.
“Business as usual will drain our aquifers and poison what’s left,” said Burt Eno, president of Rainbow River Conservation. “We must balance our water permits with monitoring to ensure users don’t take too much water, and we need to better manage fertilizer, industrial, and stormwater runoff to avoid polluting our waters.”
Following the rally, constituents will meet with their elected officials in support of SB 442/HB 451 “Advanced Well Stimulation Treatment,” SB 90/HB 1411 “Renewable Energy Source Devices,” and SB 1700 “Water Management;” and in opposition to HB 17/1158/751/1378 “Home Rule Preemption,” and SB 1238/HB 1043 “Utility Investments in Gas Reserves.” One additional bill, HB 1351 “Renewable Energy Source Devices,” requires amending because it contains language outside of what Floridians voted on in 2016.
“Floridians continue to call on their elected officials to pass legislation banning fracking, promoting renewable energy, and protecting our vital clean water supplies,” said Kim Ross, president of ReThink Energy Florida. “From the Keys, to Tampa, Jacksonville, and Gainesville — hundreds of Floridians are here to inspire our leaders to reclaim Florida’s future, environment, and health.”
Environment Florida is a statewide, citizen-based environmental advocacy organization working for a cleaner, greener, healthier future. 
Floridians Against Fracking is a coalition of over 55 environmental, health and social justice groups supporting a ban on fracking in Florida.

Florida Man Arrested for Setting Car on Fire to Collect Insurance Payout

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Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater today announced the recent arrest of Orange County resident Michael Abrams on charges of arson, insurance fraud and grand theft after he was accused of devising a plan to have his 2016 Toyota Camry stolen and destroyed so that he could collect an insurance payout.
“More often than not, acts of arson are committed in order to collect insurance payouts or to cover up a larger crime,” said CFO Jeff Atwater. “To concoct the plan that he did is an elaborate act of fraud—one that undoubtedly drives up the cost of insurance for every Floridian. I’m proud of our investigative team for getting to the truth and putting this man behind bars where he belongs.”
In early December 2016, Orange County Fire Rescue (OCFR) responded to a fire scene involving a vehicle that had reportedly been stolen in the state of New York. When OCFR requested the assistance of the Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office to determine the cause and origin of the fire, investigators began to unravel Abrams’ story.
During interviews with investigators, Abrams admitted to paying an unknown male $300 to take and destroy his car. After reporting it stolen, Abrams filed an insurance claim totaling $10,000. The plan to destroy the car by setting it on fire; however, was interrupted when the fire department was called to the scene of the crime.
Upon confessing to an active role in the burning of his car and the filing of an unlawful insurance claim, Michael Abrams was arrested and charged with several felonies. Abrams was booked into the Orange County Jail, bail was set at $50,000, and he faces 20 years in prison if convicted.
Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jeff Atwater, a statewide elected official, oversees the Department of Financial Services, serves as Florida’s State Fire Marshal, and is a member of the Florida Cabinet. CFO Atwater’s priorities include fighting financial fraud, abuse and waste in government; reducing government spending and regulatory burdens that chase away businesses; and providing transparency and accountability in spending.

Keep a lookout for manatees in motion this spring

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In balmy spring weather, both manatees and boaters are cruising through Florida’s waterways.
For manatees, it is a seasonal ritual when they abandon winter retreats and head north along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts and through inland waters. For boaters, it is a critical time to be on the lookout for manatees to avoid colliding with these large, slow-moving aquatic mammals.
From April 1 through Nov. 15, seasonal manatee zones require boaters to slow down in certain areas to prevent manatees from being struck by motorboats or personal watercraft.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) law enforcement officers will be on patrol in state waters to remind boaters of the seasonal manatee speed zones and take enforcement actions when necessary.
Because manatees are difficult to detect when underwater, operators of boats, including personal watercraft, need to take basic steps to avoid causing injury to manatees:

  • Wear polarized sunglasses to help spot manatees.
  • Look for large circles on the water, also known as manatee footprints, indicating the presence of a manatee below.
  • Look for a snout sticking up out of the water.
  • Follow posted manatee zones while boating.

FWC biologists, managers and law enforcement staff work closely with partners to evaluate current data and identify necessary actions to protect this iconic animal. Florida has invested over $2 million annually for manatee conservation, and the FWC will work toward continued success for manatees in our state.
Manatee zones and maps are available at MyFWC.com/Manatee, where you can select “Protection Zones” for links to county maps.
The FWC also asks anyone who sees an injured, distressed, sick or dead manatee to call the agency’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) or dial #FWC or *FWC on a cellphone.
You can watch manatees without disturbing them by following “Guidelines for protecting native wildlife – Florida Manatees,” a brochure with tips for canoers, kayakers, paddle boarders, snorkelers and scuba divers. It’s available at MyFWC.com/Manatee, click on “Boat, PWC, & Paddle-sport Operators” and then on “Paddle-sport Operators.” Also on MyFWC.com/Manatee is “Where are Florida’s Manatees?” with information about where to go to see manatees in the wild or in captivity.
Support the FWC’s manatee research, rescue and management efforts by purchasing a “Save the Manatee” Florida license plate at BuyaPlate.com, or by donating $5 to receive an FWC manatee decal by going to MyFWC.com/Manatee and clicking on “Decals.”

Governor Scott to Lead Trade and Development Mission to Argentina Next Month

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Governor Rick Scott will lead a delegation of many small and mid-sized businesses on an export trade mission to Buenos Aires, Argentina from April 23-27, 2017. The mission is coordinated by the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires with support from key business organizations and government entities in Argentina.
Governor Scott said, “Florida is the gateway to Latin America and with more than 60,000 exporting businesses, Enterprise Florida provides the platform for growing Florida companies to take their products to expanding markets worldwide. We look forward to expanding our trade relationship with Argentina and growing Florida’s business presence in Latin America.”
Argentina is the 21st largest economy in the world and the 3rd largest in Latin America. The country is Florida’s fourth-largest export destination with an estimated $3.3 billion worth of exports last year.
“This mission will increase opportunities for the small businesses traveling with us,” said Manny Mencia, Senior Vice President of International Trade & Development for Enterprise Florida. “Since the election of President Mauricio Macri, Argentina has rebuilt its relationship with the U.S. The Argentina market will offer excellent opportunities for Florida companies in the years to come, and this mission will allow them to connect with new partners and clients looking to purchase U.S. products and services.”
Florida companies seeking to participate can still register and access all mission networking events, airport transfers in country when traveling on official mission flights, and ground transportation to mission events.
The deadline for Delegate registration is April 1st.
To register, please contact Jorge Riano at [email protected].
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.