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RoadWatch Advisory: Verano Drive in Haines City closed for roadwork

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Thursday, March 16, and Tuesday through Thursday, March 21 – 23, 2017

POLK COUNTY
SR 17 at SR 544/CR 544 in Haines City: Construction project: Crews working on intersection improvements at SR 17 (South 10th Street) and SR 544/CR 544 will close Verano Drive at CR 544, Thursday, March 16, and Tuesday, March 21 through Thursday, March 23, 2017. The closures will occur during the day from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. while crews build the widening area on CR 544. Workers will reopen the road nightly.
Verano Drive extends between CR 544 and Alta Vista Drive just west of the Haines City post office. Residents and businesses on Verano Drive should travel north to Alta Vista Drive and west to SR 17 (South 10th Street) to access SR 544/CR 544.  Motorists leaving the post office must use the main entrance/exit on CR 544.

Huckabee to Keynote Legislative Prayer Breakfast

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FFFC Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition

The Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition, in conjunction with Concerned Women for America of Florida, is set to host its annual event that brings lawmakers, faith leaders, and engaged citizens together during the legislative session.

The Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition, along with Concerned Women for America of Florida, announced today that Mike Huckabee will be the keynote speaker at its annual Legislative Prayer Breakfast to be held in Tallahassee on Wednesday, March 29. Now a Florida resident, Huckabee was governor of Arkansas from 1996 to 2007. Following his 2008 campaign for president, Huckabee hosted a top-rated weekend show on the Fox News Channel for six and a half years as well as a nationally syndicated radio show carried by over 700 stations.
“Governor Huckabee has always been an outspoken advocate for the values of life, liberty, and limited government, and we are thrilled that he will be joining us for this year’s breakfast,” said Jim Kallinger, Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition President. “His experience as a governor, presidential candidate, and successful media personality gives him a deep well of insight, and we look forward to hearing his unique perspective on the issues facing our state and nation today.”
“The principles that Governor Huckabee has fought for throughout his career line up perfectly with our group’s objectives,” said Terri Johannessen, State Director of Concerned Women for America of Florida “We are so happy to be part of this unique opportunity to gather with like-minded people of faith to pray for our state and nation as well as to hear from a respected leader like Governor Huckabee.”
During his tenure as governor, Huckabee left a legacy of tax cuts, new jobs, improved transportation and education systems, and an innovative healthcare initiative that focused on prevention. Time Magazine honored him as one of the best governors in America and Governing Magazine named him one of its “Public Officials of the Year” in 2005. Huckabee is also the bestselling author of 12 books.
This will be the fifth annual breakfast the Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition has hosted during the legislative session. The event draws a crowd of elected officials, pastors, and engaged citizens. In addition to Huckabee’s keynote address, the breakfast will also feature remarks from members of the Florida Legislature.
It will be held Wednesday, March 29, from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center in Tallahassee. Doors will open at 7:00 a.m. Tickets may be purchased at www.FloridaFaithandFreedom.com or by calling (850) 222-8156.

About Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition
The Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition is committed to educating, equipping, and mobilizing people of faith and like-minded individuals to be effective citizens. Together, the Coalition influences public policy and enacts legislation that strengthens families, promotes time-honored values, protects the dignity of life and marriage, lowers the tax burden on small business and families, and requires government to tighten its belt and live within its means.
ON THE WEB:  www.ffcflorida.com

Sponsored and Paid for by the Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition

Senate Passes Legislation to Protect Right to Self-Defense

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The Florida Senate today passed Senate Bill 128, Self-defense Immunity, by Senator Rob Bradley (R-Fleming Island). The bill protects the right of self-defense for all Floridians by correcting a misinterpretation of the “Stand Your Ground” law in the 2015 Bretherick vs. State Florida Supreme Court decision.
“For the second year in a row, the Senate passed legislation to clarify this critical constitutional issue. Under our Constitution, Floridians accused of crimes, no matter how serious, are presumed innocent until proven guilty. This legislation affirms that constitutional right, clarifying that the state of Florida has the burden of proof at each stage of every proceeding to prove your guilt beyond and to the exclusion of every reasonable doubt,” said Senate President Joe Negron (R-Stuart).
Senate Bill 128 clarifies that the government, not the accused, has the burden of proof in a “Stand Your Ground” immunity hearing. In a 5-2 decision, the Florida Supreme Court ruled otherwise.
“A defendant always has the presumption of innocence and the state always has a burden of proof,” said Senator Bradley. “This fundamental premise is guaranteed in our Constitution and understood intuitively by all Floridians. Fidelity to the Constitution is our most important responsibility as legislators, and I am pleased to see this legislation earn the support of my Senate colleagues today.”
SB 128 changes the burden of proof and who must bear it during pretrial hearings to evaluate a defendant’s claim of immunity based on a justifiable use of force. Current law provides a defendant a right of immunity from criminal prosecution and civil action if he or she is justified in using force. Although the procedures to claim immunity are not specified by statute, the Florida Supreme Court has determined that defendants must prove by a preponderance of the evidence the entitlement to the immunity at a pretrial hearing. The bill places the burden of proof on the state and requires the state to overcome the immunity claim by offering evidence meeting the standard of beyond a reasonable doubt.
Senator Bradley sponsored the same legislation, Senate Bill 344 (2016) last session, and it passed the Florida Senate. The bill died in committee in the Florida House.

Gov. Scott Announces Cosentino to Relocate Americas Headquarters from Texas to Florida

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Governor Rick Scott today announced Cosentino, a global leader in natural stone, quartz, and recycled surfacing, is relocating its Americas Headquarters from Sugarland, Texas to Coral Gables. The relocation will create 85 new jobs and invest more than $1 million in the local community. Cosentino currently employs 60 Floridians across three distribution locations in Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and Lauderhill. The company also plans to open a design center in the Miami Design District.
Governor Scott said, “I am proud to announce that Cosentino will be relocating their Americas Headquarters from Texas to Florida and creating 85 new jobs for our families. This announcement would not be possible without the help of Enterprise Florida and shows the incredibly important role EFI has in out-competing other states like Texas to bring new job opportunities to our state. I am excited to welcome Cosentino to Florida and look forward to their future success.”
Cosentino Group, a family-owned company from Spain, is a worldwide producer and distributer of high-value innovative surfaces for architecture and design. The company currently employs more than 3,700 people worldwide, including 1,200 in the U.S. The new Americas Headquarters will house a management office with finance and sales personnel.
CEO Eduardo Cosentino said, “Miami’s location offers key strategic advantages to continue targeting the Americas. The entrepreneurial and innovative workforce in Miami better positions us to provide new products and designs that are both sustainable and advanced. Our partners at Enterprise Florida and the Miami-Dade Beacon Council helped make this move a reality, and we could not have found a better place to do business.”
This project was made possible through the close partnerships between Enterprise Florida, the Miami-Dade Beacon Council, the City of Coral Gables, CareerSource Florida and local colleges and universities.
Mike Grissom, interim President and CEO of Enterprise Florida, Inc., said, “Cosentino is a great company and I am excited to see them bring their Americas headquarters to Miami as well as the 85 jobs that will now be right here in Florida. Our state is an amazing place to live, work and raise a family, and companies like Cosentino recognize this. I am happy to welcome them to Florida and look forward to their continued success.”
Cissy Proctor, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, said, “I am proud that after growing its distribution business in Florida, Cosentino has recognized the value in moving its Americas Headquarters to the Sunshine State. Miami’s unmatched global resources and talented workforce are working to attract companies like Cosentino to our state every day.”
Jaret L. Davis, chair of the Miami-Dade Beacon Council, said, “Cosentino is exactly the type of company whose business aligns with Miami-Dade’s focus on innovation. The family-owned company has stayed at the top of its game by developing innovative products that provide significant utility and sustainability without sacrificing design. We’re pleased to welcome them to Miami-Dade and excited about the impact of 85 additional high-wage jobs.”
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.
The Miami-Dade Beacon Council is the county’s official economic development partnership. The not-for-profit public-private organization focuses on job creation and economic growth. Since 1985, the organization has assisted more than 1,000 businesses that have created nearly 67,000 direct jobs and added more than $4.3 billion in new capital investments. It accomplishes this by marketing Miami-Dade as a world-class business location, growing local companies and shaping the local economy’s future. For more information, visit www.beaconcouncil.com
About the Cosentino Group
The Cosentino Group is a global, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for architecture and design. As a leading company, Cosentino imagines and anticipates together with its customers and partners design solutions that offer value and inspiration to people’ lives. This goal is made possible by pioneering brands that are leaders in their respective segments such as Silestone®, Dekton® and Sensa by Cosentino®. Technologically advanced surfaces, which allow the creation of unique designs for the home and public spaces. The group bases its development on international expansion, an innovative research and development program, respect for the environment and sustainability, and its ongoing corporate commitment to society and the local communities where it operates, education, equality and health & safety. The Cosentino Group currently distributes its products and brands in more than 80 countries, from its headquarters in Almeria (Spain). Currently Cosentino is present in 32 countries, with its own assets in 29 of them. The group has seven factories (six in Almería, Spain, and one in Brazil), one intelligent logistic platform in Spain, and more than 120 commercial and business units throughout the world. More than 90% of Cosentino Group’s financial turnover comes from international markets.

Stetson University Hosts Immigration Forum

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The recent presidential campaign and election shined a spotlight on immigration concerns in the United States, and has heightened awareness and stirred emotions surrounding legal and illegal immigration issues. Stetson University will hold an open forum discussion with attorney Arturo R. Rios on recent changes in immigration actions and law including the expansion of enforcement capabilities. This forum is free and open to the public.
WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 1-2 p.m.
WHERE: Marshall & Vera Lea Rinker Welcome Center, 529 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand, Florida, 32723.
WHO: Arturo R. Rios, Esq., holds a Master of Laws in trial advocacy from Temple University, and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Stetson University College of Law, where he was a member of both the Trial Team and Moot Court. Rios is an adjunct professor at Stetson, where he teaches immigration litigation and advocacy, and is a member of Stetson University College of Law Board of Overseers.
Rios has served on the Board of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (CFC) for the past several years, is the Chapter’s Ambassador to the American Immigration Council, and is the Regional Vice-Chair for the AILA-CFC Tampa Region.
Rios’ private legal practice, based in St. Petersburg, Florida, is solely focused on Deportation Defense and Immigration Litigation including Immigration Court cases throughout the U.S., appeals to Board of Immigration Appeals, representing employers under ICE investigation for I-9 compliance and related issues, immigration cases in Federal district & appellate courts, motions to reopen and/or waivers, and post-conviction relief in criminal courts for immigration-related cases.

Mast Joins Colleagues To Work Toward Solutions To Address Climate Change

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Mast Joins 16 Colleagues To Introduce Resolution Acknowledging
Climate Change, Calling For Economically-Viable Solutions

U.S. Congressman Brian Mast, a member of the bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus, today joined Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21) and Congressman Carlos Curbelo (FL-26) in introducing a resolution that calls for using American innovation to improve environmental stewardship.
The resolution introduced today calls on the House of Representatives to commit to working on economically-viable solutions that address the risks of climate change, calling on “American ingenuity, innovation, and exceptionalism, “ and citing the “conservative principle to protect, conserve, and be good stewards of our environment.”
“As Secretary of Defense James Mattis has said, climate change is a challenge that requires a whole-of-government response.  If we’re going to make progress to protect our environment, it’s critical that people on both sides of the aisle speak out about the serious impact that climate change will have on our environment and our economy,” Rep. Mast said.  “Treasure Coast residents know all too well about the crippling impact on both the quality-of-life and economy when environmental disaster strikes.  We must act now to find economically-viable solutions to address the risk of climate change.”
The lawmakers were joined by fourteen other Members of Congress: Reps. Mark Amodei (NV-02), Don Bacon (NE-02), Barbara Comstock (VA-10), Ryan Costello (PA-6), John Faso (NY-19), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-08), John Katko (NY-24), Mia Love (UT-04), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (FL-27), Frank LoBiondo (NJ-02), Pat Meehan (PA-07), Tom Reed (NY-23), David Reichert (WA-08), and Mark Sanford (SC-01).
“I am pleased to introduce this resolution with so many of my Republican colleagues and I thank them for their support on this effort,” Rep. Stefanik said. “Clean energy innovation is key to addressing the serious issue of climate change. This resolution brings together the priority of addressing the risks of climate change with the importance of protecting and creating American jobs. Innovation and clean energy are key to solving both. New York’s 21st district is the proud home of the Adirondacks and we understand that protecting our environment plays an important role in promoting economic growth and opportunity.”
The resolution calls for better environmental stewardship through “economically viable, and broadly supported private and public solutions to study and address the causes and effects of measured changes to our global and regional climates.”
“With forty percent of Florida’s population at risk from sea-level rise, my state is on the front lines of climate change,” Rep. Curbelo said. “South Florida residents are already beginning to feel the effects of climate change in their daily lives – from chronic flooding to coral bleaching to threats to our freshwater supply in the Everglades.  We cannot ignore these challenges and every Member of Congress has a responsibility to our constituents and future generations to support market-based solutions, investments, and innovations that could alleviate the effects of climate change and make our nation more resilient. Our goal with this resolution is to shift the debate from whether climate change is real toward the tangible efforts to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate its effects.”
The text of the resolution can be found here.
What They’re Saying: 
Mark Reynolds, Executive Director, Citizens’ Climate Lobby
“The risks of climate change are far too great to get bogged down in partisan politics. With this resolution, these 17 Republicans are saying that business-as-usual is unacceptable when it comes to preserving a livable world for future generations. Hopefully, their leadership will help us turn the page and move forward on solutions to this critical problem.” 
Diane Randall, Executive Secretary, Friends Committee on National Legislation (The Quaker lobby in the public interest)
“The leadership demonstrated by the 17 co-sponsors of this Republican climate resolution is such a hopeful step forward. This resolution shows that our moral obligation to address climate change and protect vulnerable communities transcends partisanship, and that there truly is political will to address this issue from both political parties in Congress. Now, more than ever, we pray that Congress will quickly pivot the dialogue towards meaningful climate solutions.” 
David Jenkins, President, Conservatives for Responsible Stewardship
“The significance of this Republican climate resolution cannot be overstated. Real conservatives don’t deny reality, they face it. They don’t avoid problems, they tackle them head on. The resolution’s 17 initial cosponsors are stepping up on an issue that grows more urgent every day, and showing the prudent, fact-based—and yes, conservative—leadership our nation needs. We are grateful for this important first step.” 
Dan Misleh, Executive Director, Catholic Climate Covenant
“The Catholic Climate Covenant applauds the moral courage of the 17 Republican legislators who have introduced this resolution. The Catholic Church recognizes the threat that climate change poses to our common home and to human life and dignity – especially of the poor and vulnerable, and of those in future generations. We are heartened that Congress is responding to Pope Francis’s call in his address to Congress and in Laudato Si to “enter into dialogue with all people about our common home” (Laudato Si’, no. 3). We encourage House members take the next step of joining the bipartisan House Climate Solutions Caucus.”  
The Niskanen Center
“The sponsors of the Republican Climate Resolution understand that there is nothing conservative about ignoring the enormous risks of climate change. As conservatives, we believe the government exists to protect property rights and lives. It is clear that climate change will put both at risk for our kids and future generations. It is also clear that we have the means to significantly reduce those risks and leave a prosperous and clean future for posterity. The Niskanen Center applauds these Republicans who are looking to take positive steps forward finding practical and market-based solutions for climate change.”  
Ken Kimmell, President, Union of Concerned Scientists
“I’m heartened to see Republican House members introduce a resolution committing Congress to address climate change and base its policy decisions on science and quantifiable facts. While the resolution doesn’t explicitly make the link to fossil fuel emissions, it shows that these Republican lawmakers are not in a state of denial about this key issue. The U.S. is seeing more extreme weather due to climate change, including flooding, droughts and wildfires, which cost taxpayers billions of dollars in damages. There’s strength in numbers, and I hope that this sizable group of responsible leaders will have an impact on votes in Congress.”
Francesco “Frank” Femia and Caitlin Werrell, Co-Founders and Presidents, The Center for Climate and Security
“This resolution demonstrates that the security risks of climate change are a reality that partisanship cannot continue to obscure. The Department of Defense and intelligence community have recognized this issue across both Republican and Democratic Administrations, and it’s heartening to see Republican policy-makers from all parts of the country acting on that.” 
Mindy Lubber, President, Ceres (A nonprofit mobilizing business and investor leadership for a sustainable global economy)
“Today’s announcement sends a loud and clear message that addressing climate change need not be a partisan issue. We applaud all lawmakers – no matter their party affiliation – who recognize the urgency of tackling climate change and the enormous economic opportunities of accelerating clean energy in all parts of the United States. The cosponsors of this resolution have shown bold leadership, and we look forward to working with them to craft bipartisan climate solutions that Americans want and expect from Washington.” 
Lynn Scarlett, Managing Director of Public Policy, The Nature Conservancy
“As a science-driven organization, The Nature Conservancy strongly supports actions to address climate change. We appreciate the leadership of Reps. Stefanik, Curbelo, and Costello and their fellow members of Congress in recognizing the consequences of a changing climate and calling for solutions to this challenge.”
The Rev. Mitch Hescox, President/CEO, The Evangelical Environmental Network (EEN)
“We are proud of the courageous leadership of Rep. Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Rep. Carlos Curbelo (FL-26), Rep. Ryan Costello (PA-6), and the 14 other Republican co-sponsors of this House Resolution affirming that climate change is a serious problem that must be addressed in order for us to be “good stewards of our environment …”.  We heartily concur and stand ready to support efforts to do so”. 
Heather Reams, Managing Director, Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions
“Addressing climate change through clean energy solutions is smart policy and smart politics. Time and again, CRES polling shows that voters overwhelming support lawmakers who prioritize clean energy to advance the economy, create good paying jobs, promote energy independence, and protect the environment.”
Admiral Frank “Skip” Bowman, U.S. Navy (ret), Member of the Advisory Board, The Center for Climate and Security, Former Director of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program
“I support this Republican Climate Resolution.  Putting aside arguments of cause and effect, there are measured and measurable data and global events that must be considered and accounted for in our defense planning.” 
Rear Admiral David W. Titley, U.S. Navy (ret), Member of the Advisory Board, The Center for Climate and Security, Former Oceanographer of the Navy
“I’m very excited to see the Republican Climate Change Resolution introduced to the Congress.  Our nation’s long-term security is critically dependent on moving away from fossil-based fuels to lessen the worst risks of climate change.  This change will not happen without support and leadership from the Congress, in partnership with the Administration. The Republican Climate Change Resolution is a good first step towards a serious bi-partisan policy discussion.”
Commander David “Deke” Slayton, U.S. Navy (ret), Member of the Advisory Board, The Center for Climate and Security
“The Republican Climate Resolution ably and well serves as an imperative and call for action for our Nation. The resolution captures the issues of an observable, changing climate and the dynamic events we see unfolding in the worlds oceans today. These critical events demand U.S. Congressional and national executive leadership, now. “
Sherri Goodman, Member of the Advisory Board, The Center for Climate and Security, Former Deputy Undersecretary of Defense
“The Republican Climate Resolution, whose signers represent a broad cross-section of America affected by climate change, from our coasts to rural agricultural areas, soundly recognizes that climate change is a “threat multiplier” that will adversely affect our national security interests as well as all Americans, where we live and work.  The leaders of this effort should be commended for recognizing that we need both to study and address changes in our global and regional climates, and build more resilient communities for America’s future.”
Vice Admiral Lee Gunn, U.S. Navy (ret)
“I am enthusiastically adding my support for this Republican Climate Resolution (Ms. Stefanik, et al., ‘Expressing the commitment of the House of Representatives to conservative environmental stewardship.’). The resolution acknowledges, among other things, the enormous national security importance of stewardship of the environment for America. Our armed services depend on predictable conditions at home for training, maintenance, drills and exercises, and bases, all components of building ready military forces. Also, the demands worldwide on not only our military but our economic, diplomatic and political power, demands on all elements of our national power, will inevitably be greater if the environment becomes less predictable. The Republican Climate Resolution supports not only traditional American values, but the practical imperative of maintaining our security at home and abroad.”
Colonel Lawrence Wilkerson, U.S. Army (ret), former chief of staff to Secretary of State Colin Powell, Visiting Professor of Government and Public Policy, the College of William and Mary
The Republican Climate Change Resolution being introduced in the Congress–the Gibson Resolution under new leadership–symbolizes my political party’s recognition of climate change’s impact on national security, an impact already being felt from the shipyards at Hampton Roads to the Ship Channel in Houston, Texas.  Congresswoman Elise Stefanik and her 16 Republican co-sponsors are to be congratulated for their herculean efforts to bring my political party to a firm recognition of these risks.” 

Gov. Rick Scott to Host Fighting for Florida Jobs Roundtable in Sarasota

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Tomorrow, March 16, Governor Rick Scott will host a Fighting for Florida Jobs Roundtable with business owners, economic development leaders, tourism leaders, and community members to discuss the local economic impact of VISIT FLORIDA and Enterprise Florida.
WHAT: Fighting for Florida Jobs Roundtable
WHEN: 9:30 AM
WHERE: PropLogix
1651 Whitfield Avenue, Suite 101
Sarasota, FL 34232

Statement from Florida Society of Ophthalmology on passage of HB 1037 out of the Health Quality Subcommittee

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Dr. Adam Katz, President of the Florida Society of Ophthalmology today released the following statement after HB 1037 passed out of the Health Quality Subcommittee.
“I am disheartened the Health Quality Subcommittee has decided to support this dangerous piece of legislation. The bill language, created without the consultation of a single Ophthalmologist, allows Optometrists to bypass medical school and begin performing surgery after a brief period of instruction. The first patient an Optometrists performs surgery on will be their first experience with a live patient. This puts the health and wellbeing of all Floridians in jeopardy and drastically lowers the standard of care our patients deserve. If an Optometrist wants to perform surgery, their first stop should be medical school, not the Legislature.”

Dash Through the Past Closes out Archaeology Month

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Run/Walk Scavenger Hunt event in Port St. Joe during Archaeology Month Celebration

The Florida Public Archaeology Network will host Dash through the Past, a run/walk scavenger hunt race in Port St. Joe in celebration of Florida Archaeology Month, on March 25th from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. All ages are welcome; participants under 16 must have a parent or adult guardian participate. A donation of $10.00 includes a reusable aluminum water bottle!
This race along Port St. Joe’s walking trails offers individuals or teams of two a chance to compete over a two-mile course for great prizes from local sponsors! Registration starts at 9:00 a.m. at the Constitution Convention Museum State Park located at 200 Allen Memorial Way, Port St. Joe. The hunt and race begins at 10:00 a.m. There is no set route or order in which challenges must be completed. Prizes will be awarded based on both a team’s completion time and number of correct answers.
About Florida Archaeology Month
Florida Archaeology Month is coordinated by the Florida Anthropological Society, and supported by the Department of State, Division of Historical Resources. Additional sponsors for 2017 include the Florida Archaeological Council, Florida Public Archaeology Network, state and local museums, historical commissions, libraries, and public and private school systems. The 2017 poster is available through the local Florida Anthropological Society Chapters, and can also be acquired at your local Florida Public Archaeology Network center.
About the Florida Public Archaeology Network
The Florida Public Archaeology Network is dedicated to the protection of cultural resources, both on land and underwater, and to involving the public in the study of their past. Regional centers around Florida serve as clearinghouses for information, institutions for learning and training and headquarters for public participation in archaeology.
3.15.2017 DashStJoe2017_flyer

DEP awards $21.5 million to Brevard County for continued restoration of Indian River Lagoon

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Legislative appropriation helps fund muck dredging project

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection recently awarded Brevard County an additional $21.5 million legislative appropriation grant for Phase II of the Brevard County Muck Dredging project. This latest funding builds on the previous $20 million awarded in the past two years for muck removal in the Indian River Lagoon, for a total investment of $41.5 million to date.    

Muck build-up is a result of nutrient pollution, sediment, grass clippings, leaves and other organic matter entering the Indian River Lagoon over time and accumulating at the bottom. As muck decomposes, it consumes oxygen needed by fish and it releases nutrients that feed algal blooms. Muck sediments also negatively impact navigation and can damage seagrass beds.

“Eliminating current sources of muck is a crucial step toward improving water quality and the overall health of the Lagoon,” said DEP Interim Secretary Ryan Matthews. “Brevard County continues to demonstrate its commitment to protect and restore the Indian River Lagoon and we look forward to continued collaboration to protect this important resource.”

This newest phase of the project will remove approximately 400,000 additional cubic yards of muck sediments from the south Sykes Creek and Grand Canal sites within the Indian River Lagoon, the Banana River Lagoon and associated tributaries.

“We are grateful to DEP for this additional funding to help restore the Indian River Lagoon,” said Virginia Barker, Brevard County Natural Resources Management Department director. “The continuation of muck removal projects is important to the overall health, productivity, aesthetic appeal and economic value of the Lagoon, and saving the Lagoon is a top priority for the people who live, work and play here.” 

Previous funding includes $20 million for the ongoing Phase I of the Brevard County Muck Dredging project, which when completed will remove approximately 350,000 cubic yards of muck from the north Cocoa Beach, Mims boat ramp and Turkey Creek sites within the Indian River Lagoon, the Banana River Lagoon and associated tributaries. Additionally, $800,000 was awarded to identify sources of muck in the Indian River Lagoon and remove aquatic vegetation from the Lagoon watershed.

Together, both phases of the muck dredging project are estimated to remove a total of approximately 1,400 tons of nitrogen and 300 tons of phosphorous contained within Indian River Lagoon muck sediments.

The Indian River Lagoon Research Institute at Florida Institute of Technology (FIT), has been awarded $1.5 million to assist in monitoring project effectiveness, as well as conduct research on the chemical, physical and biological effects of muck removal within the Indian River Lagoon system.

“FIT is proud to be a research partner in this project,” said Professor Emeritus Dr. John Windsor at Florida Institute of Technology Department of Ocean Engineering and Science. “It was very foresighted of the legislature, DEP and Brevard County to assess the benefits of environmental muck dredging in coastal waters and support the research necessary to optimize Indian River Lagoon restoration from muck removal. It is also important for our students to experience how one state, one school or one person can change the world and help save a national treasure like the Indian River Lagoon, and be prepared to continue the ongoing restoration and maintenance plan.”

The department is working aggressively to improve water quality in the Indian River Lagoon by identifying and funding additional wastewater and stormwater projects to reduce the amount of nutrients going into the Lagoon, as well as dredging projects to remove muck from the bottom of the Lagoon. 

Governor Rick Scott’s “Fighting for Florida’s Families” budget proposes funding for a 50/50 state matching grant program with local communities, including those along Indian River Lagoon, to provide funding to encourage residents to move from septic tanks to sewer systems in order to curb pollution that is currently entering impacted water bodies. Additionally, this proposal will support local communities to help build wastewater systems to meet the increased demand for wastewater services.

About DEP’s Division of Water Restoration Assistance
The Division of Water Restoration Assistance is responsible for providing loans and grants for projects that improve the quality and quantity of the state’s water resources and provide a significant benefit to the environment and local communities. Projects in several program areas are funded that improve stormwater quality, reduce pollutants entering surface water and groundwater, protect springs, collect and treat wastewater, produce and distribute drinking water, nourish beaches and reclaim mined land.  For more information, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/water/waterprojectfunding/.