Governor Rick Scott today met with world leaders for the 2017 Latin American Summit and announced a major legislative proposal for the upcoming legislative session which will strictly prohibit the State of Florida, including all state agencies, from investing in any company that is doing business with Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro’s oppressive government. Earlier this year, the SBA unanimously approved Governor Scott’s proposed resolution to prohibit the State of Florida from investments connected to the Maduro regime.
Governor Scott said, “In Florida, we have been absolutely clear – the brutal government of Nicolas Maduro must end and the people of Venezuela must be given total freedom and democracy now. Earlier this year, my resolution was passed by the State Board of Administration to make sure that Florida state investments do not support the Maduro regime. Now, we are building on this action. Today, I’m proud to announce that during the upcoming legislative session, I will propose additional measures to continue to advocate for human rights and democracy for the people of Venezuela. My new proposal holds the Maduro regime accountable by making the steps we took this year permanent in Florida law. It also extends this action to all state agencies, prohibiting Florida’s state government from investing in any company doing business with the regime. I also call on all local governments and businesses to do what I’m advocating for at the state level and not do business with those that support the Maduro Regime. Companies can choose to either support the Maduro Regime, or to seek investments from the State of Florida – not both.
“Let me be clear- this proposal is aimed squarely at the Maduro regime – not businesses who provide much needed goods and services to the Venezuelan people. Florida continues to stand with the people of Venezuela and steadfast against any government that oppresses its people and denies freedom and human rights.”
Details on Governor Scott’s proposed legislation will be available in the coming weeks.
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University of North Florida Recognized as National Diversity Champion
The University of North Florida has been recognized among a select group of colleges and universities across the country as a Diversity Champion by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. Diversity Champions exemplify an unyielding commitment to diversity and inclusion throughout their campus communities, across academic programs and at the highest administrative levels.
“The position of UNF as a regional and now national stakeholder for diversity and inclusion speaks volumes regarding leadership attributes that made this possible at all levels of the university,” said Cheryl Gonzalez, chief diversity officer at UNF.
Fifteen colleges and universities nationwide have received the Diversity Champion designation this year. Selected institutions ranked in the top tier of the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award recipients. The HEED Award, which UNF received earlier this month and two other times previously, is presented annually by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine to recognize colleges and universities that are dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive campus environment.
“The University of North Florida is a visionary leader among campus communities striving for diversity and inclusion,” said Lenore Pearlstein, publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity. “As a Diversity Champion school, UNF exceeds everyday expectations, often eclipsing even its own goals, and develops successful strategies that serve as models of excellence for other higher education institutions.”
UNF continues to make great strides to foster its commitment to diversity and inclusion in employment, education and business in a variety of ways. For example, the Commission on Diversity and Inclusion at UNF started a Courageous Conversations speaker series that is free to students, faculty, staff and the community, covering a variety of topics such as racism, relationship violence and intersectionality.
The University also joined the Collaborative to Advance Equity Through Research, a national coalition of institutions committed to supporting/advancing research addressing the lives of women and girls of color.
Additionally, the UNF Division of Student Affairs also established the Department of Diversity Initiatives (DDI) to promote diversity and inclusion on campus. DDI includes the realignment of the Women’s Center, the Intercultural Center for Peace, theInterfaith Center and the Victim Advocacy Program as well as the newly established Student Alliance for Inclusion and Diversity.
INSIGHT Into Diversity is known for its annual Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award, which is the only award recognizing colleges and universities for outstanding diversity and inclusion efforts across campuses. In addition to its online job board, INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine presents timely, thought-provoking news and feature stories on matters of diversity and inclusion across higher education and beyond.
FloridaShines to host Virtual College Week
FloridaShines, Florida’s student hub of innovative educational services, will host Virtual College Week Oct. 24-26. FloridaShines is managed by the Florida Virtual Campus through the UWF Division of Research and Strategic Innovation.
“FloridaShines has everything students and parents need to get ready for college,” said Nashla Dawahre, assistant director of advising and student services. “Our free, three-day event offers a wide variety of short webinars focused on a range of different subjects from college admissions to financial aid to career planning.”
Representatives from the Florida College System, State University System, Florida Department of Education and others topic experts will present during the event.
Virtual College Week is free and open to Florida high school juniors and seniors, parents and counselors. It provides information on preparing for college, including where to go, what degree to earn and how to pay for it without breaking the bank. In addition to the live webinars, FloridaShines will provide online resources prior to the presentations to help prepare students with additional materials, through the FloridaShines website.
Virtual College Week sessions include:
Oct. 24
2 p.m. ET: Counselors Guide to Graduation
4 p.m. ET: Advising for Academic Success
5 p.m. ET: Workforce Programs in the Florida College System
Oct. 25
3 p.m. ET: Admissions into a University
4 p.m. ET: First Things First
5 p.m. ET: Bright Futures Scholarship Qualifications
6 p.m. ET: College Athletics
Oct. 26
3 p.m. ET: The Big Transition
4 p.m. ET: Financial Aid is For You
5 p.m. ET: How to Start Smart and Finish Strong
6 p.m. ET: Survival Guide for Parents
To register or for more information, visit www.virtualcollegeweek.org.
About FloridaShines
FloridaShines exists to empower all of Florida’s 20 million residents to earn a college degree and find a bright career, by providing an array of FREE online tools to help students succeed in school and prepare for careers. FloridaShines works with the state’s 40 colleges and universities and other partners to help students succeed in school and beyond. Plan for their education and to succeed in the world of work. All these services are designed to help students shine.
FloridaShines exists to empower all of Florida’s 20 million residents to earn a college degree and find a bright career, by providing an array of FREE online tools to help students succeed in school and prepare for careers. FloridaShines works with the state’s 40 colleges and universities and other partners to help students succeed in school and beyond. Plan for their education and to succeed in the world of work. All these services are designed to help students shine.
About Florida Virtual Campus
The Florida Virtual Campus (FLVC), a Complete Florida Plus program, is made up of several units which provide statewide innovative educational services for Florida’s K-adult students. Working collaboratively with Florida’s 12 public universities, 28 public colleges, K-12 school districts, and other partners, FLVC provides state-funded services to help students go to college, succeed in school, prepare for career success, and thrive in life after graduation.
The Florida Virtual Campus (FLVC), a Complete Florida Plus program, is made up of several units which provide statewide innovative educational services for Florida’s K-adult students. Working collaboratively with Florida’s 12 public universities, 28 public colleges, K-12 school districts, and other partners, FLVC provides state-funded services to help students go to college, succeed in school, prepare for career success, and thrive in life after graduation.
Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Victims of the Tragedy in Las Vegas
MEMORANDUM
TO: Tom Berger, Director of Real Estate Management and Development
FROM: Governor Rick Scott
DATE: October 2, 2017
RE: Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Victims of the Tragedy in Las Vegas
In honor and remembrance of the victims of the act of violence committed in Las Vegas during the late-night hours of October 1, 2017, I hereby direct the flags of the United States and the State of Florida to be flown at half-staff at all local and state buildings, installations, and grounds throughout the State of Florida. The flags shall be lowered immediately and remain at half-staff until the expiration of the President’s national directive until sunset on Friday, October 6, 2017.
Governor Rick Scott said, “Ann and I are praying for Las Vegas and all the innocent lives senselessly taken in this tragic attack. Our hearts go out to every family impacted by last night’sshooting.”
Please see the Proclamation by President Donald J. Trump directing flags to half-staff.
Attorney General Bondi Issues Subpoenas in Debris-Removal Investigation
Attorney General Pam Bondi today issued investigative subpoenas to three debris-removal companies in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. The subpoenas are being issued pursuant to Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act and are part of an ongoing investigation into allegations that debris removal contractors are either failing to perform at pre-storm contract rates, not performing until negotiating higher rates or are slow to perform under existing contracts.
“Sitting debris is a health and safety hazard and needs to be removed as soon as possible—but instead of doing their jobs and helping Floridians recover, apparently some contractors are delaying the work or requesting higher rates,” said Attorney General Bondi. “These subpoenas seek to answer questions about why many communities are continuing to struggle with the hazards of debris while having to contend with rate hikes.”
The office is reviewing contracts and gathering information relating to delays and potential price increases for debris removal by AshBritt, Inc. Two other companies, Ceres Environmental Services, Inc. and DRC Emergency Services Inc. have also been served with investigative subpoenas based on information that they may have also sought increased rates for debris removal. The subpoenas seek documents showing whether the contractors are indeed providing the services under the contract, the estimated time for completion of debris removal, what rates are being charged, and whether these rates have been increased. Also included in the subpoenas are requests for information relating to subcontractors.
In addition to the subpoenas issued today, the office will continue to review contracts and gather more information from other contractors and local officials.
To view Ashbritt’s subpoena, click here.
Statement from LWVFL and Coalition on Las Vegas Shooting
Once again, Americans awoke this morning to the news of another horrific mass shooting, this time in Las Vegas. At this writing, at least 58 were killed by a lone gunman. In addition, over 500 people were injured. Just a little more than a year after the massacre at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, the mass shooting in Las Vegas is now the deadliest in modern U.S. history.
While we are still learning the facts of what happened, the League of Women Voters of Florida and the Florida Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence mourn the loss of life of so many innocent people in Las Vegas. However, the response of our elected officials with messages of “thoughts and prayers” is insufficient. We do not elect our government officials for thoughts and prayers. We elect them to make law. We cannot continue to allow easy access to assault weapons in our country. We have seen the consequences of such access too many times. We honor the lives lost today with our unwavering commitment to protect all communities from gun violence.
Pamela S. Goodman
President
LWV Florida
Patricia Brigham
Co-Chair
Florida Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence
Andy Pelosi
Co-Chair
Florida Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence
Court Clerks and Comptrollers Provide Support, Hope to Survivors of Domestic Violence
In recognition of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers today reminded all Floridians that local Court Clerks’ and Comptrollers’ offices serve as resources to people both directly and indirectly affected by domestic violence throughout the year.
“According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. In Florida alone, more than 120,000 cases of domestic violence were reported last year,” said Franklin County Clerk and Comptroller Marcia M. Johnson, President of Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers. “We are focused on raising awareness and better educating our communities about how all 67 of our Clerks’ offices are here to assist domestic violence victims this month and year-round.”
Every day, Florida’s Court Clerks and Comptrollers actively work with local sheriffs’ offices and organizations across the state to help survivors achieve justice and safety for them and their families. It is each Clerk’s duty to serve as their advocate and support system. The local Clerks’ offices approach each situation with the seriousness and urgency domestic violence survivors deserve. For the survivor’s protection, Clerks use complete confidentiality and discretion throughout the process, from filing reports to ensuring victims are connected with advocate programs.
For more information on how Florida’s Court Clerks and Comptrollers help with domestic violence issues and additional resources, please visit the Domestic Violence Awareness Month page on flclerks.com. For more information about domestic violence in Florida, visit FCADV.org.
Florida Court Clerks & Comptrollers (FCCC) is a statewide nonprofit member association composed 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 www.flclerks.com.
Attorney General Bondi Kicks Off Human Trafficking Summit
Attorney General Pam Bondi today kicked off Florida’s 2017 Human Trafficking Summit in Orlando. This year’s summit focuses on connecting stakeholders throughout Florida with the shared goal of eradicating human trafficking. Law enforcement, the legal community, service providers, healthcare professionals, educators and other first responders are participating in profession-specific breakout sessions and training opportunities. There will be breakout sessions discussing human trafficking prevention, victim advocacy, law enforcement action and much more.
“Combating human trafficking in Florida has been and will remain one of my top priorities, but the fight requires joint-efforts from partners not just from Florida, but nationwide,” said Attorney General Bondi. “This important summit brings together those dedicated to ending this crime and builds on partnerships striving to make Florida a zero-tolerance state for human trafficking.”
Attorney General Bondi is dedicated to eradicating human trafficking and is a national leader in the field—just this summer, Attorney General Bondi discussed efforts to stop human tracking with international leaders at the Conference of Western Attorneys General Meeting. Additionally, Bondi’s Office of Statewide Prosecution continues to aggressively prosecute multi-judicial circuit human trafficking cases in Florida. Working with state lawmakers, Bondi helped create the Statewide Council on Human Trafficking, which she now chairs. Part of the council’s duty is to hold this annual Human Trafficking Summit.
Today’s summit brings together local, state and other national leaders working to fight all forms of trafficking. Participants will be exploring ways to help survivors and possible policies changes to combat the crime. More than a thousand individuals registered for today’s summit working to achieve this common goal.
At the summit, Attorney General Bondi presented awards to individuals for their efforts to combat human trafficking:
- Misty Laperriere, Survivor Advocate of the Year—Laperriere is the Director of Outreach and Law Enforcement Liaison for Selah Freedom and a survivor of human trafficking. In 2016, Laperriere assisted the Sarasota Police Department in rescuing two women from a local hotel. In addition to her work with victims, Laperriere provides training to several law enforcement agencies in Florida including the Sarasota and Bradenton Police Departments and travels throughout the state helping victims of human trafficking. Additionally, Laperriere implemented Florida’s first prostitution diversion court program called Turn Your Life Around.
- Dr. Heidi Schaeffer, Community Advocate of the Year—As executive board member and coalition communications specialist for the Broward Human Trafficking Coalition, Dr. Schaeffer has spoken to several news organizations about human trafficking and how citizens can help. Dr. Schaeffer trained teachers and students at Palm Beach County schools on human trafficking indicators. She also worked closely with deans, professors and students to help incorporate human trafficking instruction into medical school curriculum and develop a clinical training video and multiple live presentations for Baptist and South Miami Hospitals.
- Lisa Haba, Prosecutor of the Year—Haba is an assistant state attorney in 18th Judicial Circuit Court. Haba works in the office’s sex crimes and child abuse division, prosecuting cases involving human trafficking and crimes against children. Last year, Haba successfully prosecuted the first human trafficking case in Seminole County. Haba also sits on the board of directors of The Lifeboat Project, a human trafficking focused non-profit. Haba is a member of the Seminole County Human Trafficking Task Force and teaches the community, law enforcement officers and deputies about human trafficking.
- Corporal Alan Wilkett, Law Enforcement Official of the Year—Corporal Wilkett led the Pasco County Human Trafficking Task Force on several sweeps and trained more than 2,000 community members through the Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking. Corporal Wilkett actively works with local government offices, local healthcare provider Baycare, the local community and non-profit organizations like Bridging Freedom, where he serves as a board member.
Additionally, the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice awarded Christopher Massey Human Trafficking Advocate of The Year. Massey chairs the Education and Awareness sub-committee for the Freedom 7 Human Trafficking Task Force. Since January 2016, as Chair, Massey trained and educated almost 5,000 individuals about human trafficking.
The Florida Department of Children and Families awarded Investigator Deborah Stout the Department of Children and Families Human Trafficking Investigator of the Year font-family: Arial; font-size: medium;”> for her compassion for a young victim. Instead of discounting the victim due to the victim’s record, Stout tried to fully understand the situation, established trust and developed a relationship with the victim.
For more information about the summit, visit HumanTraffickingSummit.com.
Dennis Baxley Statement on Shooting in Las Vegas
Senator Dennis Baxley this morning released the following statement regarding the shooting in Las Vegas:
“Last night’s shooting in Las Vegas is an unspeakable tragedy. My heart is broken for the victims, their families, and the thousands who witnessed this evil act. They are all in my prayers. As always, the first responders were outstanding, and I’m so grateful for their heroic service.”
CFO Patronis Attends Latin America Summit in Miami
CFO Jimmy Patronis today joined state, local and industry leaders at the Latin America Summit hosted in Miami by Governor Rick Scott. The summit called together leaders from a wide array of professions, including international trade, human rights and economic development, to increase communication, collaboration and growth opportunities between Florida and Latin American countries.
For a full list of speakers and participants, click here.
