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Tommy Gregory Posts Strong Fundraising Numbers

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The House District 73 candidate has raised more than
$140,000 since entering the race less than two months ago

The Tommy Gregory Campaign today announced that he has raised almost $141,000 since entering the race for House District 73. The total amount of $140,925 includes $55,925 in his campaign account, with another $85,000 raised for his political committee.

“The momentum our campaign is generating is exciting,” said Gregory. “I’m so grateful for the friends and community members that share our vision for growing our economy and protecting our constitutional rights, and I plan to keep working hard to get that message out.”

Gregory, a Sarasota attorney, entered the race in March. He is a Florida native and 20-year U.S. Air Force veteran. The District 73 seat is currently held by Joe Gruters, who is running for the Florida Senate.

Paid by Tommy Gregory, Republican, for State Representative

138th basic recruit class graduates from FHP Training Academy

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Florida Highway Patrol welcomes 71 new Troopers to the road

The 138th basic recruit class of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) today graduated from the FHP Training Academy. These 71 Troopers join the more than 1,900 Troopers who patrol Florida’s roads each day to provide safety and security to residents and visitors. Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis delivered the keynote address to FHP’s newest Troopers.

CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said, “Law enforcement professionals are the fabric of our community and play an integral part in Florida’s future. It was an honor to be with the newest class of FHP professionals today and I will continue to do everything possible to support this community.”

Members of the 138th basic recruit class went through 28 weeks of intense physical and classroom training covering topics including defensive tactics, law, vehicle operations, firearms and first aid. While at the FHP Training Academy, recruits also participated in several community service activities, including blood drives and volunteering to help those living with developmental disabilities.

“These Florida Highway Patrol Troopers have made a heroic commitment to serve the state of Florida,” said DHSMV Executive Director Terry L. Rhodes. “In the face of challenges and uncertain times, they have made the selfless decision to always answer the call to help those in need, and I am extremely proud to welcome the 138th Recruit Class.”

“It is a privilege to welcome our newest recruit class to the ranks of trooper,” said Colonel Gene S. Spaulding, Director of the Florida Highway Patrol. “These men and women will carry on the Patrol’s dedication of Courtesy, Service and Protection for the residents and visitors of Florida.”

Upon reporting to their duty stations, the new Troopers will be placed with a certified Field Training Officer (FTO). Troopers will work in tandem with their FTO for 10 to 14 weeks prior to being released to solo duty.

The FHP is currently recruiting. Those looking for an exciting career in law enforcement have endless possibilities within the ranks of the Patrol.  From Pensacola to the Florida Keys, FHP allows you to make a career where you call home. Opportunities and openings are statewide.  FHP is now hiring for the 141st basic recruit class starting October 2018. To learn more about Florida’s finest, visit BeATrooper.com or contact FHP’s Recruitment Office at 850-617-2307.

20th Anniversary of Good Friday/Belfast Agreement Discussed at UT Roundtable

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The 20th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement/Belfast Agreement will be the topic of a roundtable discussion at The University of Tampa on Wednesday, May 23, at 4 p.m. in the Sword & Shield Room in the Martinez Athletics Center on campus.

The discussion is free and open to the public.

The roundtable discussion will be moderated by Liv Coleman, UT associate professor of political science. Roundtable participants will include: Richard Cushnie, deputy director of the Northern Ireland Bureau; Catherine Shannon, professor emerita of history at Westfield State University; Shane Stephens, consul general of Ireland in Atlanta; Aidan Hunt, son of John Hume; and Danny Kennedy, former minister of the Ulster Unionist Party.

Light refreshments will be served after the discussion.

The roundtable discussion is sponsored by the University of Tampa Office of International Programs, the Northern Ireland Bureau North America, the Consulate General of Ireland and the British Consulate-General Miami.

Following this event, a screening of the feature documentary In the Name of Peace: John Hume in America will take place at the Tampa Theater at 7 p.m.

Setting The Record Straight: Tampa Bay Times Continues Unbalanced Attacks

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The Tampa Bay Times today continued its attacks on Governor Rick Scott and completely ignored the state’s major accomplishments over the past month. The Times also neglected to provide a balanced narrative by including statements from the Governor’s Office on various issues – statements which have been shared with the Times on multiple occasions. We take this opportunity set the record straight.

Tampa Bay Times: “It raises a question: Lately under Scott, how well is Florida working?” 

FACTS: We’re glad they asked. Over the past month, much like he has every day during his past seven years as Governor, Governor Scott has been hard at work for Florida families. The following are links to just some of the great things Governor Scott has accomplished recently. We encourage the Times to take a moment to be reminded of these big wins for Florida families. In addition to these accomplishments, Governor Scott also recently announced that he will be visiting Israel this month to attend the grand opening of the new U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem.

Gov. Scott: Department of State to Hire Additional Cybersecurity Specialists

Gov. Scott to Secretary of State Pompeo: Focus on Latin America

Gov. Scott to Travel to Puerto Rico Next Week

Gov. Scott: Florida Businesses Created More Than One and a Half Million Jobs Since December 2010

GOV. SCOTT: LOW TAX OPPORTUNITY ZONES IN EVERY COUNTY WILL KEEP FLORIDA’S BOOMING ECONOMY GROWING

GOV. SCOTT: AGREEMENT WITH SEMINOLE TRIBE ENSURES CONTINUED INVESTMENTS FOR FLORIDA FAMILIES 

Gov. Scott: State Funding Accelerates Critical Repairs to the Herbert Hoover Dike 

Gov. Scott: Greenway Health Expands Tampa Headquarters Adding More than 100 Jobs 

Gov. Scott: United Technologies Creates 480 Jobs in Palm Beach County, Opens New UTC Center for Intelligent Buildings 

Gov. Scott: Florida Students Lead the Nation in Reading and Mathematics 

Additionally, the Times mentioned several issues in its most recent story without including comment from the Governor’s Office – even though our office has provided comment on several occasions. This unbalanced approach is unfortunate and warrants a reminder on these topics:

ON MENTAL HEALTH BACKGROUND SCREENINGS…

“During the 2018 Legislative Session, and following the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Governor Scott fought tirelessly to develop a comprehensive plan of action so this never happens again. The Governor’s major action plan, which led to the passage of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act (SB 7026) addressed three critical issues: making our schools safer, giving law enforcement the tools they need to keep guns out of the hands of the mentally ill and those seeking to harm themselves or others, and providing key funding for mental health services in Florida’s communities.

“The Clerks of Court in Florida are locally elected and Governor Scott expects them to prioritize their resources to resolve this issue as required by state law. FDLE will continue to identify additional grants and resources to provide even more assistance to the clerks as the Department works to keep Floridians safe.” – McKinley Lewis, Governor Scott’s Press Office

ON DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE PERSONNEL MOVES…

“The Governor’s Office has absolutely no involvement in the hiring, or firing, of these individuals. The Department of Revenue makes personnel decisions for their agency. It’s no surprise that a state agency would seek to hire highly qualified individuals with experience in state policy and state budget development and experience working with the Florida Legislature.” – McKinley Lewis, Governor Scott’s Press Office 

ON FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS FUNDING…

“Over the past three years, more than $124 million has been invested in the Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) to provide pay increases to recruit and retain correctional officers, improve facilities and fleet, better serve inmates with medical and mental health needs and expand reentry programming. This year, in his Securing Florida’s Future recommended budget, Governor Scott sought to build on these investments with a nearly $169 million increase in funding for FDC.

“The annual budget the Florida Legislature passed this year was lower than the Governor’s recommended budget which has resulted in these temporary funding shortfalls. Governor Scott is confident that Secretary Jones will work with her stakeholders, and members of the legislature, to ensure that this issue is temporary, resolved quickly and handled appropriately. Safety and security remain the Department’s top priority.” – McKinley Lewis, Governor Scott’s Press Office

Additionally, the Governor’s Office confirmed to the Times that Lieutenant Governor Carlos Lopez-Cantera personally advocated for this issue to the legislature in meetings with members. He also visited the Senate Chamber.

FROM AHCA ON MEDICAID RETROACTIVE ELIGIBILITY…

“Florida continues to focus on quickly enrolling Florida’s most vulnerable people including children, frail elders, those with disabilities and pregnant women. By enrolling individuals quickly, you ensure better-coordinated fully integrated care, as well as access to preventative services.

“It is categorically false to assert that this change impacts the care of children, seniors or vulnerable Floridians. Claims that patient care and services will be jeopardized are false. Florida’s Medicaid program is operating at the highest level of quality care in its history.”– Mallory McManus, AHCA Communications Director

Mayor Yioset De La Cruz Endorses Diaz

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The longtime mayor of Hialeah Gardens is the latest local
leader to support Manny Diaz’s run for the Florida Senate

The Manny Diaz Campaign today announced the endorsement of Hialeah Gardens Mayor Yioset De La Cruz. Diaz has represented District 103 in the Florida House of Representatives since 2012 and is seeking the District 36 seat in the state senate. De La Cruz’s endorsement comes on the heels of Hialeah Mayor Carlos Hernandez’s earlier this week.

“Manny Diaz has distinguished himself as an effective leader,” said De La Cruz. “During his time in the House, he has represented our community well and has been a tireless advocate for education reform and increased opportunity for all Floridians. I am proud to endorse his candidacy for Florida Senate, and I look forward to continuing to work with him.”

A native of Cuba, De La Cruz came to Miami in 1983 and moved to Hialeah Gardens the following year. In 2000, he was elected Mayor of Hialeah Gardens, becoming one of the youngest mayors in the state. He is currently the youngest mayor in Miami-Dade County. De La Cruz is very active with the Florida League of Cities, serving as Chairman of its Intergovernmental Legislative Policy Committee.

“I’m grateful to have the support of a dedicated public servant like Mayor De La Cruz,”’ said Diaz. “For many years, he has devoted himself to working hard to make Hialeah Gardens a better place, and I’m honored to have him and so many other local leaders supporting me.”

ON THE WEB: VoteMannyDiazJr.com

Paid by Manny Diaz Jr., Republican, for State Senator

Office of Insurance Regulation staff member deploying to Puerto Rico to provide assistance

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Florida Insurance Commissioner David Altmaier announced today that staff from the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) will travel to Puerto Rico to assist those impacted by Hurricane Maria. In partnership with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), an OIR team member will deploy on May 12, 2018 to assist families and individuals with claims and other insurance issues.

Governor Scott said, “Since Hurricane Maria, Florida has provided steadfast support to our neighbors in Puerto Rico and I am proud to continue this aid by sharing an insurance expert from Florida to provide claims assistance to homeowners and business owners as they work to rebuild their lives. I am proud of the work Florida has done to help families from Puerto Rico and we will continue to do all we can to make sure they have the resources needed to get back on their feet.”

CFO Jimmy Patronis said, “Access to insurance help and resources is critical for consumers and businesses in Puerto Rico impacted by Hurricane Maria. As we gear up for the 2018 Hurricane Season, it’s important that we do all we can to provide resources to the people of Puerto Rico to help recover and now prepare ahead of June 1. My office’s bi-lingual insurance experts stand ready to assist with any consumer concerns.”

Florida Insurance Commissioner David Altmaier said, “OIR’s mission is to protect insurance consumers and cultivate a stable insurance marketplace in Florida, and we’ve worked closely with Governor Scott, CFO Patronis, Commissioner Putnam, and Attorney General Bondi to carry out this mission before, during, and after storms. I am proud that our team will now have the opportunity to extend our efforts by providing direct assistance in Puerto Rico.”

Julie McPeak, Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance Commissioner and National Association of Insurance Commissioners President, said, “Having OIR staff available to assist with policyholders with claims processing will be an invaluable service, and the NAIC is thrilled to partner with Governor Scott and Commissioner Altmaier on this initiative.”

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners will provide financial support for travel costs associated with the initiative.

Miami woman claims top prize in new FLORIDA 20X THE CASH Scratch-Off game

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The Florida Lottery announces that Shelia McClendon, 59, of Miami, claimed a $1 million top prize in the FLORIDA 20X THE CASH Scratch-Off game at Florida Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee. She chose to receive her winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $770,000.00.

McClendon purchased her winning ticket from Ives Dairy Marathon, located at 19760 Northwest 2nd Avenue in Miami. The retailer will receive a $2,000 bonus commission for selling the winning Scratch-Off ticket.

The new $5 game, FLORIDA 20X THE CASH, launched on January 15, and features 14 top prizes of $1 million, and more than $110 million in cash prizes. The game’s overall odds of winning are one-in-4.22.

Scratch-Offs are an important part of the Lottery’s portfolio of games, generating more than $784 million for the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF) in FY 2016-17, and comprising approximately 68 percent of ticket sales.

PSC Customer Service Hearings Set for K W Resort Utilities

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The Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) invites customers of K W Resort Utilities Corp (KWRU) to participate in customer service hearings on the utility’s petition for a rate increase. The hearings, scheduled on May 15 and May 16 in Key West, allow customers to provide public comment on KWRU’s rate request.

Customer input will be taken into consideration when the Commission considers the utility’s request. KWRU filed a petition for a rate increase with the PSC on November 21, 2017. The utility provides wastewater service to approximately 1,865 customers in Monroe County.

Customer service hearings are scheduled for the following times and locations:

Tuesday, May 15, 2018
6:00 p.m.
DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Key Resort
Tortuga Ballroom
3990 S. Roosevelt Blvd.
Key West, Florida

and

Wednesday, May 16, 2018
9:30 A.M.
DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Key Resort
Tortuga Ballroom
3990 S. Roosevelt Blvd.
Key West, Florida

Neil Combee Campaign Proud to Announce First of Many Polk County Endorsements

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Florida State House Representatives Ben Albritton, Mike LaRosa, and Josie Tomkow, Frm. State Representative John Wood, along with the Mayors of Auburndale and Polk City, Tim Pospichal and Joe LaCascia, have announced their support of Neil Combee for Florida Congressional District 15.

“Neil Combee has been a friend of mine for years. He and I share a common bond, agriculture. Neil is a natural born leader. I’ve never seen him back away from a fight to protect conservative principles and our Constitution. I’m proud to endorse Neil Combee for U.S. Congress,” Representative Ben Albritton stated.

Representative Josie Tomkow said, “I’ve known Neil and the Combee family my whole life, and there is no one who will fight harder for our area than him. He is fair, honest and humble. He means what he says, and his word is as good as gold. He is the only one in this race who will work to continue making America great again.”

“I’m proud to put my name behind Neil Combee for Congress because Neil has always worked hard to put forward good, conservative, common sense policy to make life better for all Floridians,” Representative Mike LaRosa said.

Fmr. Representative John Wood stated, “If you love your liberty, you will love Neil Combee in Congress. No one will fight to protect our rights and conservative values than Neil Combee.”

“I’m backing Neil because he will never forget who he is or where he comes from. Washington won’t change him, he will change Washington,” Polk City Mayor Joe LaCascia said.

Auburndale mayor Tim Pospichal said, “Main Street America needs Neil Combee. There is no one else I trust to keep this economy prosperous. Lets send Neil to Congress.”

“These folks wake up everyday trying to make life better for their neighbors. That’s what service is about. It’s truly humbling to have earned their trust and support,” Neil Combee responded. “The campaign is picking up momentum. Together we won’t let the liberals destroy our great Country.”

Paid for by Friends of Neil Combee

Closure of Carlton Palms Imminent

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The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) today filed for a receivership of Carlton Palms to ensure a safe transition of all residents. APD is selecting a company to take over operations of the facility after Bellwether Behavioral Health notified APD that it will cease operations in Florida on May 31, 2018. APD’s action to revoke Carlton Palms license is ongoing. Bellwether also notified the agency that it intends to close its two six-bed group homes in Central Florida.

APD Director Barbara Palmer said, “We continue to work diligently to ensure the safe transition of residents from Carlton Palms while holding Bellwether Behavioral Health accountable. Today’s action is a major milestone in our efforts to shut down the facility that has proven it does not have the best interest of our clients in mind. I am very excited to see these residents transition into smaller group homes in their local communities. Keeping our APD customers safe and healthy is the top priority of the agency, and moving them into smaller homelike settings lends itself to a happier and healthier environment.”

APD has taken multiple actions to hold Bellwether Behavioral Health accountable, including an agreed moratorium on new residents, extensive video monitoring in all homes, an outside monitoring and transition team, along with other administrative sanctions and a prior $10,000 fine.

Residents will continue to be safely transitioned to other community settings over the next few months. Parents or guardians are being encouraged to make their selection of a new residential option for their loved one. The goal is to give parents or guardians choices in their local communities while ensuring that the new homes can meet the unique needs of these clients.APD is working with community providers to develop additional group homes for individuals with intensive behavioral needs. These specialized services will help APD customers live in their home communities near families or guardians.

To date, 58 people have transitioned into new community group homes. Guardian Healthcare has been contracted to provide daily health and safety oversight during this transition period.

APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn, and work in their communities.  The agency annually serves more than 50,000 Floridians with severe forms of autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, Phelan-McDermid syndrome, and Prader-Willi syndrome. For more information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, visit APDcares.org or call toll-free 1‑866‑APD‑CARES (1‑866‑273‑2273).