Scratch-Off games. The four new games range in price from $1 to $10, and feature more than $332 million in cash prizes and more than 30 million winning tickets! All Lottery retailers are expected to have these new tickets in stock and available for purchase within 72 hours.
The $10 game, $5,000 A WEEK FOR LIFE, offers the largest top prize available on a $10 Scratch-Off ticket, and features more than $148 million in cash prizes! The game’s overall odds of winning are one-in-3.35.
The $5 game, $2,500 A WEEK FOR LIFE, offers more than $103 million in cash prizes and over 7.5 million winning tickets! The game’s overall odds of winning are one-in-3.95.
The $2 game, $1,000 A WEEK FOR LIFE, has more than 10 million winning tickets, including eight top prizes of $1,000 a week for life! The game’s overall odds of winning are one-in-4.43.
The $1 game, $500 A WEEK FOR LIFE, offers more than $19 million in total cash prizes and over six million winning tickets! The game’s overall odds of winning are one-in-4.97.
Three drawings will be held between July 26 and September 6, 2017, for non-winning WEEK FOR LIFE tickets entered into the Cash Supply Second Chance Promotion. In each of the three drawings, one player will win $25,000, three players will win $10,000, three players will win $5,000, and 30 players will win $1,000. Players can also earn up to 15 extra entries each week by entering a special social media promo code that will be posted to the Florida Lottery’s official Facebook page each week during the second chance promotion. For more information about these games and the second chance promotion, visit www.flalottery.com.
Scratch-Off games are an important part of the Lottery’s portfolio of games, comprising approximately 65 percent of ticket sales and generating more than $734 million for the Educational Enhancement Trust Fund (EETF) in fiscal year 2015-16.
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DCF Reminds Families to Stay Safe While Celebrating Independence Day
The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) reminds parents and caregivers to take extra precautions to keep their children safe during the busy holiday weekend. Independence Day is an important time to reflect on the nation’s history and celebrate our freedom; but it is also important to take some simple steps to ensure your family’s safety.
Whether on the playground or at a campground, make sure your family stays safe as you celebrate Independence Day,” DCF Secretary Mike Carroll said. “As Florida’s summer heat draws many of us to water on the weekends and holidays, remember that drowning remains a leading cause of death for children in our communities and can be prevented by adult supervision.”
Here are a few family safety tips to keep in mind:
- Use good judgment when going boating. Make sure every passenger uses flotation devices and children are always secured by an adult while on a vessel.
- There should always be an unimpaired adult actively watching children playing around or swimming in pools. When a child falls into a pool or a swimmer begins struggling, every second counts in preventing a drowning.
- Be sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying and always follow all safety instructions. When lighting fireworks, including sparklers, always have water handy, such as a hose or bucket.
- Use your grill well away from your home and deck, and out from under branches or overhangs.
- If you attend a large event, plan ahead by determining a safe place to meet in case your family gets separated.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to follow these simple precautions to have a safe holiday.
Jimmy Patronis Brings Business Expertise to Department of Financial Services
Today in Tallahassee, Jimmy Patronis was officially sworn in as Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, replacing Jeff Atwater who is leaving state government to pursue a career in higher education. As a former member of the Florida House of Representatives and a successful business owner, Patronis brings to the Department a unique expertise of the Florida economy as well as private sector perspective on many of the Department’s key issues, such as financial accountability, protecting employees from the harmful effects of on-the-job injuries, contract management and the importance of providing consumer services aimed at improving the quality of life of all Floridians.
“Florida is without a doubt the best place to live, work and raise a family,” said Chief Patronis. “I am honored to serve my fellow Floridians in this capacity, and I look forward to continuing the legacy of CFO Jeff Atwater in creating the same opportunities and success that my family has seen for all Floridians.”
The Chief Financial Officer oversees the Department of Financial Services, serves as Florida’s State Fire Marshal and as a member of the Florida Cabinet.
The Department of Financial Services manages the state’s accounting and auditing functions, monitors the investment of state funds and manages Florida’s risk management program. The Department also serves as the clearinghouse for insurance information, licensing insurance agents and addressing consumer complaints involving insurance companies. Law enforcement units aggressively fight insurance and public assistance fraud and ensure that employers adequately provide workers’ compensation insurance for employees.
Jimmy Patronis was born and raised in the Florida Panhandle. The Patronis Family owns and operates Captain Anderson’s, a Panama City restaurant currently celebrating its 50th anniversary. He served in the Florida House from 2006 to 2014, and has earned degrees from Gulf State College and Florida State University.
FWC urges Fourth of July boaters to be careful, use beacons and enjoy Florida’s waterways
During the Fourth of July holiday, many people take to the water to celebrate Independence Day. The warm, sunny days of summer combined with viewing fireworks puts many more boats and people on the water in close proximity to one another.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) urges boaters to use caution while boating on this busy holiday. Many boating accidents are caused by inattentiveness or improper lookout.
“Boat operators have a personal responsibility to make sure their passengers are safe and they are not creating a hazard for other boaters,” said Capt. Gary Klein, Florida’s boating law administrator. “We all expect to have a good time when we celebrate the Fourth of July. No one expects anything to go wrong, but that can all change in an instant if someone is not paying attention or is operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”
During this weekend, boaters can expect to see an enhanced law enforcement presence and increased messaging about safe boating practices.
Beginning July 1, Floridians have another great reason to purchase and register an emergency locator beacon. Gov. Rick Scott and the Florida Legislature have instituted discounted vessel registration fees for anyone who owns a recreational vessel equipped with an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon or a Personal Locator Beacon.
“For many boaters an EPRIB or PLB can make a big difference if an emergency occurs,” said Klein. “These devices send a signal via satellite to search-and-rescue agencies so rescuers can more quickly locate the boaters in need.”
More information on EPIRBs is available at MyFWC.com/Boating by clicking on “Safety and Education.”
More information on the new discounted vessel registration law can be found at the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles’ website.
DCF Partners with Barry University to Host a Two-Week Life and Job Skills Training for Former Foster Youth
The Department of Children and Families’ (DCF) Fostering Success Program, in collaboration with the Barry University School of Social Work in Miami, recently held a commencement ceremony marking the completion of two-week professional life skills and employment readiness program for the young adults participating in the program.
Twelve former foster youth participated in an immersive developmental and professional job skills training opportunity to help better prepare them for the workforce. Participants were housed on campus, paired with a mentor, and participated in training which focused on personal and professional development, public speaking, cultural diversity, and technology in the workplace.
“We are thankful for the partnership with Barry University to provide an additional opportunity for our youth to develop their professional skills,” said DCF Secretary Mike Carroll. “This is the future of Florida’s workforce; it is imperative that we continue to support skills training for young adults in Florida’s child welfare system. We look forward to following their journeys and watching them grow in and outside of the workplace.”
The program operates jointly between DCF, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Youth (ages 18 and up) participating in the program have the opportunity to gain professional work experience in a supportive environment by obtaining employment in a paid entry-level position in a participating state agency.
“We appreciate Representative Albritton and the Florida Legislature for giving us the opportunity to help pilot this program,” said FDACS Director of Administration Joey Hicks. “This program not only provides an environment for growth and learning for the young adults in the program, but it equally benefits our employees who participate as mentors. With the added support of DCF and FWC, we’re already seeing increased opportunity for these young adults in personal and professional skill development.”
The program’s goal is to help emancipated foster youth develop the habits, attitudes, and skills they need to get and keep a job, become self-sufficient and economically stable, and reach personal success. The program also offers its participants developmental skills training, mentoring services, and any needed additional support, such as transportation, housing, and food assistance.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to welcome seven bright young people to the FWC from the Fostering Success Program,” said FWC Executive Director Nick Wiley. “This program provides multiple benefits. We’re able to provide participants with high-quality on-the-job training that prepares them for a future career. And it allows us the opportunity to immerse them in our conservation mission. Not only does this support the FWC’s efforts to create the next generation that cares about conservation, it may also lead participants to consider a career path at the FWC.”
The Fostering Success program was established in 2014 to help reduce and prevent the unnecessary struggles experienced when aging out of the foster care system by providing life and job skills education, job placement services, and collaborative efforts to strengthen and expand community partnerships.
“It is such a blessing to our young people emerging out of foster care to have opportunities to build careers in our state agencies, with Barry University equipping them,” said Representative Albritton. “When we started the program, I only dreamed and hoped that this simple idea would yield so much good. Simply put, I’m deeply blessed to be part of Fostering Success team! THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT!”
The Fostering Success Program is currently only operated within the city of Tallahassee and administered by DCF, FDACS, and FWC.
Gulf County Resident Jason Shoaf Appointed to Triumph Gulf Coast Board of Directors
Port St. Joe Native Joins Board Tasked with Economic Recovery, Diversification, and Enhancement of Counties Disproportionately Affected by the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill
Florida Senate President Joe Negron (R-Stuart) today appointed Jason Shoaf of Port St. Joe to the Board of Directors of Triumph Gulf Coast, Inc. Mr. Shoaf serves as the Vice President of St. Joe Natural Gas Company.
“Jason Shoaf is a lifelong resident of the Florida Panhandle with deep roots in Gulf County. He has a passion for the community and is committed to seeing the full economic recovery of Northwest Florida,” said President Negron. “His business background and record of service to his community make him an excellent addition to the already prestigious board of directors.”
“For the better part of the last decade, our communities have been feeling the impacts of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. The legislation we passed earlier this year affirms our longstanding commitment to keep these critical funds in Northwest Florida,” said Senator Bill Montford (D-Tallahassee), who represents Gulf County in the Florida Senate. “Jason Shoaf is a family man and community leader who will be a great advocate for, not only Gulf County, but our entire region.”
Earlier this year, the Florida Legislature unanimously passed and Governor Scott signed into law House Bill 7077, which amended the Gulf Coast Economic Corridor Act to ensure funds received in the settlement of the state’s economic damage claims caused by the 2010 Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill remain in Northwest Florida’s eight disproportionately affected counties.
The eight disproportionally affected counties receive 75 percent of all economic damage settlement funds received by the state. House Bill 7077 immediately appropriates the initial settlement payment to Triumph Gulf Coast, Inc., and releases subsequent settlement payments directly to Triumph Gulf Coast, Inc., no later than 30 days after they are received by the state. As required by the new law, the initial settlement payment of $300 million has been dispersed to Triumph Gulf Coast.
Former House Speaker Allan Bense chairs the board. He is joined on the board by Stan Connally Jr., Pam Dana, Stephen Riggs IV, and Bob Bonezzi. The President of the Senate, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Governor, Attorney General, and Chief Financial Officer, each appointed one board member.
House Bill 7077 requires the addition of two new appointees to the current five-member board, expanding the board to seven members. The President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives must each appoint an additional member from the private sector in one of the four least populous disproportionately affected counties ensure that two such counties are represented on the board.
Background:
In 2013, the Legislature created Triumph Gulf Coast, Inc., to ensure economic damage settlement funds coming to the state would both benefit the eight disproportionately affected counties and be properly accounted for. The Triumph Gulf Coast Board is tasked to make awards to programs and projects that meet the priorities for economic recovery, diversification, and enhancement of the disproportionately affected counties. The corporation is required to abide by the state’s public record laws and public meeting notice requirements.
The eight Florida counties disproportionately affected by the Deepwater Horizon Spill include: Bay, Escambia, Franklin, Gulf, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton, and Wakulla Counties.
ICYMI: Trumbull Congratulates Patronis on CFO Appointment
In case you missed it, State Representative Jay Trumbull released the following statement today following the swearing-in of Jimmy Patronis as Florida’s Chief Financial Officer:
“I want to congratulate my friend, Jimmy Patronis, on his first official day as Florida’s Chief Financial Officer. With his business background and his experience in public service, he’s a great choice for the job. Having him in the Florida Cabinet is a huge win for Bay County and all of Florida, and I look forward to working with him.”
About Jay Trumbull for State Representative
Born and raised in Panama City, Florida, Jay Trumbull Jr. graduated from Bay High School and then from Auburn University with a degree in Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship. The Trumbull family has been in the bottled water and water conditioning business for over 4 generations and owns 6 Culligan dealerships in Panama City; Ft. Walton; Dothan, Alabama; Mobile, Alabama; Tifton, Georgia; and Americus, Georgia. Jay started out driving a truck for the first 2 years and then later became a part of the dealer management team. Jay is active in local business community organizations, including the Bay County Chamber of Commerce and the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce. Jay married his high school sweetheart, Brittany Fishel. They are members of the First United Methodist Church of Panama City and are both active in the community.
ON THE WEB: www.jaytrumbull.com
Paid by Jay Trumbull, Republican, for State Representative
Donalds Congratulates Renner
State Representative Byron Donalds today made the following statement following the election of State Representative Paul Renner as leader of the Republican freshman class:
“I want to congratulate my friend and colleague Paul Renner on his election as our 2016 Republican class leader. I am confident he will do an outstanding job in the role, and I look forward to working with him. I was honored to be a candidate, and I also congratulate Jamie Grant and Erin Grall on the fine races they ran. Now that this election is behind us, let’s look forward to working together to put conservative policies in place that will create jobs and a brighter future for all Floridians.”
About Byron Donalds for State Representative
Byron Donalds works in finance, insurance, and banking in Southwest Florida. Over the past five years, he has been a featured speaker on national and statewide policy and politics and is a regular guest on Daybreak with Drew Steele on 92.5 Fox News FM, The Bob Harden Show, and The Joe Whitehead Show on 98.9 WGUF. Donalds was appointed by Gov. Rick Scott to the Board of Trustees for Florida Southwestern State College, formerly Edison State College. He serves as a founding board member for a public charter school in Naples, an Advisory Board member for the Salvation Army of Collier County, and a youth leader at Living Word Family Church. In 2012, he carried Collier County in the Republican primary to succeed Connie Mack as U.S. Representative. Donalds graduated from Florida State University. He lives in Naples with his wife, Erika, and his three sons.
ON THE WEB: www.ByronDonalds.com
Paid by Byron Donalds, Republican, for State Representative
Beware of Credit Card Skimmers at the Pump This Holiday Weekend
Ahead of projected record-breaking travel this Independence Day, Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam is providing simple tips to help Floridians and visitors avoid credit card skimmers at the gas pump. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has found and removed 276 credit card skimmers from gas pumps so far this year.
“Identity theft is the last thing Floridians and visitors want to deal with while traveling,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam. “An educated consumer is the best defense, and I encourage travelers to follow these simple tips to avoid skimmers this holiday weekend.”
Travelers can take the following steps to avoid skimmers at gas stations:
- Pay in cash inside the store to ensure credit card information stays safe.
- Check to make sure the gas pump dispenser cabinet is closed and has not been tampered with.
- Use a gas pump closer to the front of the store. Thieves often place skimmers at the gas pumps farther away from the store.
- Use a credit card instead of a debit card. Credit cards have better fraud protection, and the money is not deducted immediately from an account.
- If using a debit card at the pump, choose to run it as a credit card instead of putting a PIN number in. That way, the PIN number is safe.
- Monitor bank accounts regularly to spot any unauthorized charges.
- Consumers who suspect their credit card number has been compromised should report it immediately to authorities and their credit card company.
Commissioner Putnam worked with the Florida Legislature last year to change Florida law to better protect consumers from identity theft at gas station pumps by:
- Requiring self-service fuel dispensers to use certain security measures to prevent theft of consumer financial information;
- Increasing enforcement authority against those who possess or traffic fraudulent credit cards;
- Reclassifying the crime of unlawful conveyance of fuel, which increases the maximum sentence; and
- Increasing the offense level of the crime, which affects sentencing guidelines.
Consumers who suspect that a gas pump has been tampered with should contact the gas station manager, local law enforcement or the department’s consumer protection and information hotline at 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) or, for Spanish speakers, 1-800-FL-AYUDA (352-9832).
The department regularly inspects gas stations and analyzes samples of petroleum products to ensure consumers are being offered quality products at a fair measure. For more information, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.
Industry Alert: Check Cashing Compliance
The Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) reminds all check cashers to be fully aware of and adhere to the requirements of Chapter 560, Florida Statutes.
Check cashers are reminded to comply with all reporting and record-keeping requirements and to ensure strict adherence to their anti-money laundering programs. Chapter 560, Florida Statutes, requires businesses operating as check cashers to develop, implement and maintain an effective anti-money laundering policy and to report suspicious activity to the OFR. Florida law also requires check cashers to maintain all books, records and other information necessary for determining compliance, as well as file all reports timely, and include information as specified in administrative rule.
In addition, when cashing checks in excess of $1,000 or cashing corporate checks, a check casher has additional compliance responsibilities, including entering information into Florida’s check cashing database. Compliance with these requirements is essential to preventing check cashers from becoming a conduit for criminal activity. We encourage check cashers to review and fully understand compliance requirements. The OFR supports check cashers who comply with the law and provide important services to Floridians. The OFR routinely examines all check cashers to ensure they are complying with Chapter 560, Florida Statutes.
- Become a licensed check casher
- View Chapter 560, Florida Statutes related to money services businesses
- View Rule 69V-560, Florida Administrative Code related to money transmitters
For more information, please contact the OFR’s Customer Service Help Line at (850) 487-9687.
