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Attorney General Bondi Announces the 2017 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year

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Attorney General Pam Bondi today named Orlando Police Department Lieutenant Scott Smith as the 2017 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. Attorney General Bondi recognized Lieutenant Smith and seven other officers from across the state for their dedication and courage protecting Floridians.
“I am eternally grateful for these nominees and all our brave law enforcement officers who risk their lives daily to keep us safe,” said Attorney General Bondi. “We cannot thank these officers enough for the sacrifices they and their families make daily to protect our communities.”

On June 12, 2016, Lieutenant Scott Smith was one of the Watch Commanders during the Pulse nightclub attack in Orlando. This incident would become the second deadliest mass shooting in our country’s history. Smith organized and led a team into the nightclub. Smith shot at the suspect inside the building, allowing responding officers to rescue patrons and employees still inside the club.

Smith played a critical role during the law enforcement response to the Pulse nightclub attack. Smith commanded the initial tactical response as a first responder. Smith led officers into the building, confronting the active shooter with return fire, limiting the shooter’s access to further victims. SWAT team members, including Smith, returned fire, killing the suspect. During a dangerous situation, Smith displayed commendable acts of valor and heroism.

A selection committee appointed by Attorney General Bondi considered the distinguished group of nominees from state agencies and organizations.

The following law enforcement officers are the additional nominees:

  • Detective Jeff Batz, Florida Department of Financial Services;
  • Officer Schiefer S. Buckles, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Office of Agriculture Law Enforcement;
  • Special Agent Don Cannon, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Miami Regional Operations Center;
  • Detective Wolfgang Daniel, Fort Myers Police Department, Special Investigations Group;
  • Deputy Justin Ferrari, Volusia County Sheriff’s Office;
  • Detective Sandra Marquez, City of Aventura Police Department; and
  • Corporal Julio Torres, Florida Highway Patrol.

For more information on the nominees’ accomplishments, click here.

Combee for Congress Proud to Announce More Polk County Endorsements

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Former State Senator and Former Florida State House Representative J.D. Alexander, Former State Attorney Jerry Hill, Former Polk County Commissioner and Former Mayor of Auburndale Jack Myers, Former Polk County Commissioner Jerry Carter, Former Lakeland City Commissioner Don Gifford, and Former Polk County Commissioner and member of the Southwest Florida Water Management District Paul Senft, have announced their support of Neil Combee for Florida’s 15th Congressional District.

“I have known Neil Combee for many years now, and there is no one else who’s as passionate about serving others, agriculture, small business owners, or preserving our constitutional rights. He will always stand up for what’s right in Washington, and won’t forget those of us back here at home. I’m proud to endorse Neil for Congress,” Fmr. State Senator J.D. Alexander said.

Fmr. State Attorney Jerry Hill says, “We need someone in Congress who respects that we are a nation of laws. Neil Combee knows this, and he will work in Washington to make sure that we secure our borders, stand up for our constitution, and keep our nation a nation of law and order.”

“I served with Neil on the Polk County Commission, and I am proud to support him for Congress. His conservative values and common sense, policy-focused mind makes him the best choice in this race,” Fmr. Polk County Commissioner and former mayor of Auburndale Jack Myers said.

Fmr. Polk County Commissioner Jerry Carter said, “There aren’t many people out there today that are like Neil. His integrity, grit, spirit, and passion alone will make him a great congressman, however the most outstanding trait of Neil Combee is his heart for service. I’ve known Neil for 40 years now, and Washington needs more people like Neil, and I am proud to support Neil for Congress.”

“I’m proud to stand by Neil Combee for Congress. He has done a great job in the past of championing free market principles, gun rights, and job creation. I have no doubt that Neil will be highly effective as our congressman,” Fmr. Lakeland City Commissioner Don Gifford stated.

Fmr. Polk County Commissioner and member of the Southwest Florida Water Management District Paul Senft says, “One of Florida’s most precious resources is our water and environment. Neil Combee understands this, and will fight to protect Florida’s resources, the Everglades, and those who need these resources to make a living—our farmers.”

“I am blown away from the support that this campaign is getting, and I am honored that these folks think so highly of me that they would put their name behind this run for Congress. I am excited to have them on Team Combee,” Neil Combee responded.

These endorsements join the growing list of endorsements by State Rep. Ben Albritton, State Rep. Mike LaRosa, State Rep. Josie Tomkow, Fmr. State Rep. John Wood, Mayor Tim Pospichal of Auburndale, and Mayor Joe LaCascia of Polk City. There will be many more to come.

Paid for by Friends of Neil Combee

Mast Joining Veterans Affairs Committee

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U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) announced today in a Facebook Live video that he will join the Veterans Affairs Committee.  Rep. Mast, a 12-year Army veteran, has emerged as a leading advocate for veterans during his short time in Congress.  He will also continue to serve on the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

The announcement can be watched HERE.

Rep. Mast Quote: “I’m really excited to have the opportunity to serve our veterans on the Veterans Affairs Committee.  Our first-of-its-kind office in the West Palm Beach VA has resulted in more than 100 new cases that we’re taking a look at to help veterans in our community, and being on this committee will give me an even better platform to advocate for my fellow veterans.” 

Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Phil Roe Quote: “I am thrilled to welcome Representative Mast to the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Brian is already a tireless advocate for veterans, and – as a veteran himself – is keenly aware of the challenges our nation’s heroes face. Representative Mast will be an excellent addition to the committee, and I look forward to working with him to reform VA.”

BACKGROUND 

Prior to his election to Congress, Rep. Mast followed in his father’s footsteps by serving in the U.S. Army for more than 12 years, earning medals including The Bronze Star Medal, The Army Commendation Medal for Valor, The Purple Heart Medal, and The Defense Meritorious Service Medal. While deployed in Afghanistan, he worked as a bomb disposal expert under the elite Joint Special Operations Command. The last improvised explosive device that he found resulted in catastrophic injuries, which included the loss of both of his legs. 

In Congress, Rep. Mast has emerged as a leader on veterans issues.  He opened the first-ever Congressional office inside a VA facility in January.  Through this office, veterans from around the area have improved access for assistance with any VA-related issues.  The office is located in room 1A-366 of the West Palm Beach VA. 

Since the opening of the VA office in January, many other Members of Congress have asked Rep. Mast about the process to open his office so that they can replicate the service for veterans at their local VA facilities.  Unfortunately, opening the office took more than a year of navigating bureaucratic red tape.  That’s why he introduced the Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act to cut down on this bureaucracy by requiring the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs to permit a Member of Congress to use a facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs for the purpose of meeting with constituents of the Member.  Rep. Mast testified before the VA committee on this bill earlier today.

Rep. Mast also introduced and got signed into law The Department of Veterans Affairs Expiring Authorities Act.  This bipartisan bill extended a number of expiring authorities impacting veterans’ benefits, health care, and homeless programs, including nursing home care, support services for caregivers, transportation, child care assistance, adaptive sports programs and housing and home loan services.

Clerks Respond to Governor Scott’s $1M Federal Funding Request

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Dedicated to Florida’s Public Safety

Clerk leadership provided the following statements in response to Governor Scott’s $1M federal funding request on Monday.

Franklin County Clerk and Comptroller & Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers president, Marcia M. Johnson:

“We appreciate Governor Scott’s acknowledgment and support. Like him, the safety of our state’s citizens and visitors is of paramount importance. Unfortunately, funding shortages at the state level have led to this request and we are counting on federal dollars to shore up our resources before a tragedy occurs.”

Pinellas County Clerk and Comptroller & Clerks of Court Operation Corporation chair, Ken Burke:

 “Florida’s Clerks of Court are laser-focused on finding a solution to this issue. Like many of the core services we provide, this is one of the critical functions our offices are struggling to fund. Recognizing its importance, we are taking immediate action to be part of the overall solution. We look forward to partnering with the legislature to develop a permanent and sustainable funding model addressing all necessary Clerk functions, including this one.”

Background

Florida’s Clerks and Comptrollers have long been committed to satisfying the statutorily-mandated reporting requirements for gun ownership and work with justice partners statewide to strengthen reporting systems and practices.

In 2006, Florida’s Clerks were tasked with the eligibility reporting responsibility regarding gun purchases. When the law was further strengthened in 2013, Florida’s Clerks worked with FDLE to identify best practices when entering records into the Mental Competency Database (MECOM). In June 2014, FDLE acknowledged Florida Clerks’ challenges in meeting database entry requirements. Following a state Auditor General’s report on FDLE in 2016, Clerks worked with the agency to develop an improvement plan which was published in an April 2017 Inspector General’s six-month follow-up report which stated no further action was needed.

Despite a budget reduction of more than $60 million over the last five years, Florida’s Clerks of Court strive to provide critical services in every county amid serious budget constraints.

The Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers (FCCC) is a statewide, non-profit member association comprised of the Florida Clerks of the Circuit Court and Comptrollers. FCCC provides local government support services, technical assistance and accreditation opportunities for all members of the association. For more information visit flclerks.com.

Senator Bean & Representative Daniels Present $250,000 in State Funding to Johnson Family YMCA

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On behalf of the State of Florida, State Senator Aaron Bean (R-Fernandina Beach) and State Representative Kimberly Daniels (D-Jacksonville) yesterday presented a $250,000 check to Eric K. Mann, president and CEO of YMCA of Florida’s First Coast, the YMCA’s Metropolitan Board of Directors and the YMCA’s Senior Leadership Team. During the 2018 Legislative Session, Senator Bean and Representative Daniels advocated together to help secure the $250,000 in state funding for teen programming at the James Weldon Johnson Family YMCA in Northwest Jacksonville.

“The YMCA is consistently a leader in advocating for Florida’s youth by providing programs that positively impact their lives and give them the opportunities needed to succeed,” said Senator Bean. “This funding will allow the YMCA to increase programming for at-risk adolescents in the most underserved areas of Jacksonville, which will truly change lives and benefit our entire community.”

“It was an honor working with Senator Bean on the Johnson Family YMCA appropriation,” said Representative Daniels. “This facility is strategically placed between Cleveland Arms and Washington Heights, which are high crime housing areas. The youth in these neighborhoods will benefit from the program expansion, and I am excited about what is ahead for our community.”

This state funding will allow the Johnson Family YMCA to launch new programming and grow programmatic opportunities for teens and pre-teens in Jacksonville’s most disadvantaged areas. The YMCA’s goal is to provide these at-risk youth with a safe space and constructive programming after school and during the summer. The Johnson YMCA will also use the funding to provide life skills training, job and career preparation, health education and summer employment opportunities for teens. These new programs will serve approximately 120 additional youth in the Jacksonville community.

“The new Teen and Pre-Teen Centers at the Johnson Family YMCA are an investment in our youth,” said Mann. “We are grateful that our state leaders understand the importance this funding will have in helping the Y ensure that every child has the opportunity to envision and pursue the best possible future.”

Senator Bean represents Senate District 4, which includes parts of Nassau and Duval Counties. He can be contacted in Tallahassee at (850) 487-5004 or in his District Office at (904) 757-5039.

Commissioner Adam Putnam to Participate in Manatee Fraternal Order of Police Memorial Service

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MEDIA ADVISORY

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam will participate in the Manatee Fraternal Order of Police’s Memorial Service on Thursday, May 17.

Event: Manatee Fraternal Order of Police Memorial Service

Date: Thursday, May 17, 2018

Time: 9 a.m.

Location: First Baptist Church of Bradenton
1306 Manatee Avenue West
Bradenton, Fla. 34205

PSC Assists Leon County Seniors During Older Americans Month

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During May’s Older Americans Month, the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) is visiting the Lake Jackson Community Center in Tallahassee on Thursday, May 17.

PSC representatives will distribute and discuss water and energy conservation information, assist eligible seniors in applying for the Lifeline Assistance telephone/broadband discount program, and offer protection against scams targeting utility customers.

The Leon County event is scheduled for the following time and location:

Thursday, May 17, 2018
10:30 a.m.
Lake Jackson Community Center
3840 North Monroe, Suite 301
Tallahassee, Florida 

About Older Americans Month
Since 1963, communities and agencies across the state and nation have joined in the annual Older American Month commemoration. The tradition shows the state’s commitment to celebrating the contributions and achievements of older Florida residents. For more information visit hoam.acl.gov.

Mast testifies before VA Committee on legislation encouraging congressional offices at VA facilities

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U.S. Congressman Brian Mast (FL-18) today testified before the Veterans Affairs Committee to advocate for passage of the Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act.  His bipartisan legislation will streamline the opening of Congressional offices inside Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities across the nation.  The introduction of the bill followed Rep. Mast’s opening of the first-ever Congressional office inside a VA this past January.

BACKGROUND 

Rep. Mast opened the first-ever Congressional office inside a VA facility in January.  Through this office, veterans from around the area have improved access for assistance with any VA-related issues.  The office is located in room 1A-366 of the West Palm Beach VA. 

Since the opening of the VA office in January, many other Members of Congress have asked Rep. Mast about the process to open his office so that they can replicate the service for veterans at their local VA facilities.  Unfortunately, opening the office took more than a year of navigating bureaucratic red tape.

The Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act would cut down on this bureaucracy by requiring the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs to permit a Member of Congress to use a facility of the Department of Veterans Affairs for the purpose of meeting with constituents of the Member.  Moreover, the bill requires the Department of Veterans Affairs to develop regulations regarding the use of VA office space by Members of Congress, mandating that the space be made available during normal business hours and in a location that is easily accessible to the Member’s constituents.

Public Hearing for State Road 60 from County Road 630 in Polk County

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Public Hearing for State Road 60 from County Road 630 in Polk
County to east of the Kissimmee River Bridge in Osceola County

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), District One, is holding a public hearing for the State Road (SR) 60 Project Development and Environment (PD&E) study from County Road (CR) 630 in Polk County to east of the Kissimmee River Bridge in Osceola County. All members of the public are invited to attend.

The hearing will be held on Thursday, May 24, 2018 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Westgate River Ranch, Main Hall at 3200 River Ranch Boulevard, River Ranch, FL 33867.

There will be an open house at 5 p.m. during which staff will be available to discuss the project and answer questions, followed by a formal hearing presentation at 6 p.m., after which participants may provide their verbal comments to all present. People attending the hearing can review project displays and speak one-on-one with project team members about the proposed project improvements. Written statements or exhibits submitted at the hearing, emailed, or mailed and postmarked by Monday, June 4, 2018 will become part of the official hearing transcript.

FDOT selected a recommended widening alternative that will construct two new travel lanes separated from the existing travel lanes by a 40-foot-wide grassed median. The median will improve safety by creating a buffer between eastbound and westbound traffic. The proposed improvements will require FDOT to acquire right-of-way, or property, for road widening and stormwater management areas. Existing access to properties along SR 60 will change due to the addition of a median, a result of widening the road. The no-build alternative, where no improvements other than routine maintenance are made to SR 60 through 2040, will remain viable throughout the remainder of this study. Project staff will display plans and answer questions about the proposed widening alternative for SR 60.  Project information and graphics showing the project’s location and proposed improvements will be available for public viewing from May 2, 2018 to June 11, 2018 at two locations. One is the Lake Wales Public Library, 290 Cypress Garden Lane, Lake Wales, Florida. Please call the library at (863) 678-4004 for hours of operation. The other location is the FDOT District One Headquarters, 801 North Broadway Avenue, Bartow, Florida. Please contact FDOT project manager, Patrick Bateman, E.I., by phone at (863) 519-2792 or by email at [email protected] to make an appointment to review the materials. You can find additional information on the project website.

FDOT solicits public participation without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status. The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried out by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) pursuant to 23 U.S.C. §327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated December 14, 2016, and executed by the Federal Highway Administration and FDOT. Persons who require special accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or people who require translation services (free of charge) should contact FDOT project manager Patrick Bateman, E.I., at (863) 519-2792 or [email protected] at least seven (7) days prior to the meeting.