Capital Soup

Florida News Straight From the Source

You are here: Home / Archives for Featured

Featured

Commissioner Adam Putnam’s Statement on USDA’s Disaster Aid Implementation

Posted on

Following U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue’s announcement today that the USDA will begin implementing disaster payments of up to $2.36 billion in response to 2017 hurricanes and wildfires, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam issued the following statement:

“Florida agriculture took a direct hit from Hurricane Irma and has long-awaited this much-needed disaster relief. I thank Secretary Perdue for moving forward with the process to make disaster payments. We look forward to continuing to work with the USDA to ensure that this program is implemented quickly and in the best way possible to help Florida’s producers recover from the devastating hurricane.”

Twelve Florida College System Students Earn National Scholarships

Posted on

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and Coca-Cola reward students’ hard work

During an awards ceremony today in Tampa, Florida, College System Chancellor Madeline Pumariega honored the 134 students who were named to the Florida College System All-Florida Academic Team. Twelve of these students also earned national scholarships ranging in value from $1,000 to $5,000 for demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence, intellectual rigor and community service.

Education Commissioner Pam Stewart said, “The Florida College System is recognized as a national model for its outstanding institutions, so it is no surprise that 134 of our colleges’ students were selected as recipients of these distinguished scholarships and awards. I am pleased to congratulate these students and thank Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and Coca-Cola for investing in our students’ continued education.”

Chancellor Madeline Pumariega said, “As Chancellor of the Florida College System, it is my privilege to commend these students on the dedication they have shown to their studies and for the contributions they have made to their communities. These are just a few examples of the many truly remarkable students in the Florida College System.”

Below are two Florida college students who are being recognized with national scholarships.

All-USA Community College Academic Team: Luis Flores Mesias, Hillsborough Community College
Luis Flores Mesias has the unique distinction of being selected as both a member of the 2018 All-USA Academic Team and the 2018 Coca-Cola New Century Transfer Pathway Scholar for Florida, a result of having the highest All-USA Academic Team application score in the State of Florida. As a member of the All-USA Academic Team he is one of only 20 others in the United States. He is one of only 100 students recognized across the United States as a Coca-Cola New Century Transfer Pathway Scholar.

A native of Guatemala, Luis has excelled since arriving at Hillsborough Community College, serving as an honors ambassador, member of Phi Beta Lambda, Phi Theta Kappa and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. In addition to his academic accomplishments, Luis has had the honor of serving as the first student trustee in the history of Hillsborough Community College. The District Board of Trustees, administration and staff have been greatly impressed by his informed advocacy for his fellow students during the academic year.  After completing his course work at Hillsborough Community College, Luis hopes to continue his studies in Electrical Engineering at a university. Luis Mesias earned a $5,000 scholarship as a member of the All-USA Community College Academic team and $2,000 as Florida’s Coca-Cola New Century Scholar

Coca-Cola New Century Workforce Scholar Team: Shanta Bacchus, Valencia College 
The New Century Workforce Pathway Scholarship recognizes the achievements of workforce-ready students and provides scholarships to complete their associate degrees, obtain the necessary certifications and purchase the tools or other trade-specific items needed to enter the workforce. Fifty students from across the nation will be recognized. Shanta Bacchus is currently pursuing an Associate in Science in Office Administration from Valencia College and will receive a $1,250 scholarship from Phi Theta Kappa.

Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team
The Coca-Cola Community Academic Team is selected annually by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation to recognize outstanding leadership, service to the community and academic excellence. Gold scholars are awarded with a $1,500 scholarship, silver scholars receive a $1,250 scholarship and bronze scholars receive a $1,000 scholarship.

  • Gold Scholars
    • Michaylla Boring, Eastern Florida State College
    • Jennifer Smalley, Northwest Florida State College
  • Silver Scholars
    • Ann Brown, Chipola College
    • Michidael Ceard, Miami Dade College
    • Medjyna Moreau, Broward College
  • Bronze Scholars
    • Summer Chrzescian, Florida SouthWestern State College
    • Estefany Rivas Ortiz, Hillsborough Community College
    • Monique Ruiz, Miami Dade College
    • Erika Weaver-Coleman, South Florida State College
    • Felipe Zwanzger, Miami Dade College

To view the All-Florida Academic Team members, visit All-Florida.

For more information about the Florida College System, visit floridacollegesystem.org.

For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit fldoe.org.

FDLE announces charges in Madison kidnapping case

Posted on

Agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, along with the Madison Police Department, the FBI and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office announced charges against Jason Lenard Hayling, 44, in connection with the 2016 kidnapping of 7-year-old Bryan Williamson. The child was kidnapped from Gibson Trailer Park on April 17, 2016 between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. and dropped off in Jacksonville between 5:00 and 7:00 a.m. on April 18, 2016.

Hayling was arrested out of state in February 2018 for an unrelated Jacksonville capital sexual battery case. FDLE agents obtained a search warrant for his DNA after noticing similarities between the Madison kidnapper and Hayling.

“After nearly two years, it gives me relief to tell you that we know who the kidnapper is and that this dangerous predator is no longer a threat to our community,” said FDLE Special Agent in Charge Mark Perez. “Observant investigators with unwavering dedication along with DNA helped solve this case.”

“Madison Police Department officers and investigators worked tirelessly on this case,” said Madison Police Chief Reggie Alexander. “I appreciate the hard work of investigators who were determined to find this child predator.”

“This case reflects the relentless efforts of the FBI and our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to identify those who prey on our children,” said Special Agent James VanPelt of the FBI’s Jacksonville Division. “I am hopeful that the people of Madison County, Jacksonville and everywhere in between can breathe a little easier tonight knowing that Jason Lenard Hayling is no longer an unknown threat to our communities.”

“As the Sheriff of Madison County, I am always impressed with the depth and perseverance of all our local and state officers as they continue to pursue these predators and protect our communities,” said Madison County Sheriff Ben Stewart. “This case is an example of a job well done.”

Hayling remains in the Duval County Jail at the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Pre-Trial Detention Facility and has been charged for the Madison kidnapping.

Following the 2016 abduction, investigators and analysts from FDLE, Madison PD, FBI and Madison County SO viewed hundreds of hours of video from homes and businesses, processed dozens of citizen calls from a tip line and distributed flyers throughout Florida and southern Georgia in working to solve this case.

If you have any information regarding this case or Jason Lenard Hayling, please contact FDLE at (800) 226-5630.

Gov. Rick Scott to Attend Florida National Guard Deployment Ceremony

Posted on

MEDIA ADVISORY

Today, April 6th, Governor Rick Scott will attend the Florida National Guard deployment ceremony for the 260th Military Intelligence Battalion in Miami.

WHAT: Florida National Guard Deployment Ceremony

WHEN: 1:00 PM

WHERE: Florida National Guard Robert A. Ballard Armory
700 NW 28th Street
Miami, FL 33127

Investigators to provide update on Madison kidnapping case

Posted on

MEDIA ADVISORY

FDLE Tallahassee Special Agent in Charge Mark Perez will provide an update on the investigation into the 2016 abduction of a 7-year-old boy from Madison, Florida.

When: Friday, April 6, 2018

Time: 11 a.m.

Where: Madison County Emergency Management Building

Address: 1083 SW Harvey Greene Drive, Madison, Florida

Who: FDLE Special Agent in Charge Mark Perez, Madison Police Chief Reggie Alexander,
FBI Special Agent James VanPelt and Madison County Sheriff Ben Stewart.

What: Investigators will provide an update on the investigation of the abduction and recovery of
Bryan Williamson from Gibson Trailer Park on April 17, 2016.

Gov. Scott Announces $763 Million Investment in Transportation Project Benefitting First Coast Families

Posted on

Governor Rick Scott today announced $763 million in funding for the Phase 3 of the First Coast Expressway project through the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) Work Program. This investment includes funding for the replacement of the Shands Bridge and extension of the First Coast Expressway to I-95 in St. Johns County and is the final phase of the $1.9 billion project. Last month, Governor Scott signed the Securing Florida’s Future budget which invests a record $10.1 billion in transportation infrastructure to keep up with Florida’s continued growth and booming economy. Since Governor Scott took office in 2011, investments in transportation have increased by $3.3 billion.

Governor Scott said, “By continuing to invest record amounts of funding in transportation in Florida, we are giving our job creators and families the infrastructure they need to grow and succeed. Today’s announcement will help bolster the job creation we are achieving across the state.”

The first phase of the expressway, from I-10 to Blanding Boulevard, is already under construction. Construction on the second phase, from Blanding Boulevard to the St. Johns River in Clay County, is set to begin early next year. When complete, the First Coast Expressway will cover 46 miles of limited-access roadway, extending from Interstate 10 to Interstate 95, offering motorists and commercial vehicles an alternative that bypasses downtown Jacksonville.

FDOT Secretary Mike Dew said, “Governor Scott recognizes that strategic investments in infrastructure drive strong economic growth, and projects like this one support continued prosperity and high quality of life for families and businesses in Northeast Florida and across our state. The Florida Department of Transportation is committed to enhancing safety, easing congestion and improving mobility for all of our citizens. Once complete, this bridge replacement and new roadway will connect communities and provide new and existing businesses with the infrastructure they need to thrive.”

S.R. 44 Detour at Stone Street in DeLand

Posted on

Drivers on State Road (S.R.) 44/New York Avenue in DeLand can expect detours this weekend at the S.R. 44 intersection with Stone Street west of Woodland Boulevard to accommodate concrete slab replacement. The intersection closure is scheduled to be in place from Friday, April 6, to Monday, April 9.

During the detour, drivers on westbound S.R. 44 will be directed around the work area using Orange Avenue, Rich Avenue and High Street. Eastbound S.R. 44 traffic will be directed to use High Street, Howry Avenue and Orange Avenue as a detour. Access to businesses and residences will be maintained.

The detours are part of a Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) project to repair and replace areas of concrete along S.R. 44 between Boundary Avenue and Hill Avenue.

Please note construction schedules may change due to weather or other circumstances. Electronic message boards will be used to alert motorists to lane closures and detours, and updates will be available on the FDOT’s Central Florida website CFLRoads.com.

Media inquiries should be directed to the FDOT Communications Office at 386-943-5479 or [email protected].

FDOT advises drivers to slow down and use extra caution in construction zones.

CFO Jimmy Patronis Meets with Southeast Florida First Responders to Highlight Signing of Bill to Expand PTSD Benefits

Posted on

CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis today was joined by the bill sponsors for Senate Bill 376, Senator Lauren Book and Representative Matt Willhite, and members of the fire service and law enforcement communities from across Southeast Florida and Palm Beach County to highlight the signing of SB 376, expanding mental health benefits for first responders. Gov. Rick Scott signed the bill last week in Tampa surrounded by hundreds of first responders from across the state.

Gov. Scott: $1.6 million for job growth in Florida’s rural communities

Posted on

Governor Rick Scott announced $1.6 million in funding opportunities for Florida’s rural communities will be made available through the Competitive Florida Partnership and Community Planning Technical Assistance grants. These grant programs are administered by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) and provide funding and support to assist local governments in economic development strategies, addressing critical local planning issues and promoting innovative planning solutions to challenges identified by local governments.

Governor Scott said, “Since taking office in 2011, I have fought every day to make Florida the very best state in the nation for businesses to succeed so Floridians can get great jobs and provide for their families. Florida’s rural communities play a critical role in the continued growth and advancement of our booming economy and I am proud today to announce $1.6 million for rural communities to enhance local economic development. Because of our focus on job creation, since 2010, every county in Florida has had a drop in unemployment and thanks to lower taxes and less burdensome regulations, Florida business have created nearly 1.5 million new jobs. I look forward to seeing our rural communities put these dollars to work to get great jobs wins that provide big returns for Florida families.”

DEO Executive Director Cissy Proctor said, “DEO is committed to helping promote Florida’s diverse economy and build vibrant rural and urban communities. These grants are a great opportunity to help rural communities reach their economic development goals and assist them in capitalizing on the unique assets each community has to offer.”

Additional details on the Competitive Florida Partnership and the Community Planning Technical Assistance grants proposal processes and requirements are available HERE and HERE. Grant proposals are being accepted now and must be received by DEO by Monday, May 7, 2018, by 5:00 p.m. Projects seeking grant funding must be completed by May 31, 2019.

Attorney General Bondi Kicks Off 2018 Law Enforcement Torch Run

Posted on

Attorney General Pam Bondi today kicked off the 2018 Law Enforcement Torch Run, benefiting Special Olympics Florida. Hundreds of font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;”> law enforcement officers and supporters joined Attorney General Bondi and Special Olympics CEO and President Sherry Wheelock at the kickoff event. Local, state and federal law enforcement officers, corrections officers and support staff will carry the Flame of Hope 1,500 miles throughout Florida to bring awareness to Special Olympics. This year, Special Olympics is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

“Special Olympics Florida is a remarkable organization that provides amazing athletes the opportunity to showcase inspiring strength and skill for the world to see,” said Attorney General Bondi. “I want to thank our law enforcement community and all those involved in the Torch Run for supporting these dedicated athletes.”

Eight thousand members of the law enforcement and corrections community will carry the torch in a relay to the opening ceremonies at the Annual Florida State Summer Games. This year’s games take place May 18-19, 2018 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Lake Buena Vista. More than font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;”> 46,000 athletes participate in Special Olympics activities throughout Florida. Today, 156 runners from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and more than 50 runners from the Office of the Attorney General participated in today’s kick off.  

For a schedule of the Law Enforcement Torch Run routes by county, click here.

The Special Olympics is a global movement that serves more than four million athletes in 169 countries. The organization empowers athletes to improve physical fitness, build confidence and find new friendships, all while having fun and learning life-lessons.

For more information about Special Olympics Florida and how to get involved, visit SpecialOlympicsFlorida.org.