To pay tribute to its active-duty and veteran students who are recipients of the Purple Heart medal and who made great sacrifices to ensure U.S. citizens’ freedoms, Jacksonville University is dedicating two parking spots on campus in collaboration with the local Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 524.
The ceremony takes place at 1:30 p.m. Monday, April 3, on the campus at 2800 University Blvd. N. and will include remarks from JU representatives, local Purple Heart chapter veterans and Purple Heart student veterans.
JU student Sean Karpf, who spent 17 months in recovery after an IED explosion in Afghanistan resulted in a left below-the-knee amputation and a traumatic brain injury, will make remarks. Karpf, who received his Purple Heart in 2013, is a frequent speaker and former member of the U.S. Army’s Warrior Games Team.
One of the dedicated JU parking spots is in front of the Council building across from Historic Swisher Gymnasium, and a special Purple Heart parking sign will be placed there for Monday’s event. The other sign will be placed in the parking lot in front of the Gooding building near the front of campus. The signs are being donated by the local Purple Heart chapter.
There are an estimated 1.8 million Purple Heart recipients nationwide. More than 10 JU students are medal recipients.
Featured
UNF Hosts ‘Walk in a Woman’s Shoes’ and ‘Take Back the Night’ March/Candlelight Vigil
The University of North Florida’s Women’s Center will host a day of annual events in solidarity of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. These events aim to unite the community to take a stand against interpersonal violence/abuse and to honor and remember those who have survived as well as those who lost their lives.
The “Walk in a Woman’s Shoes” event will take place 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 5, on the UNF Green, in front of the Fine Arts Center, Building 45. An awareness fair will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Osprey Plaza in front of the Student Union, Building 58. The “Take Back the Night” march will begin 7:30 p.m. at Osprey Crossings Courtyard (Buildings Q-S) and move to Osprey Plaza.
“These events initiates a conversation about a topic that often goes undiscussed,” said Brandi Winfrey, Women’s Center coordinator. “We want the community to become comfortable discussing sexual assault and interpersonal violence.”
The “Walk in a Woman’s Shoes” event will focus on figuratively walking in the shoes of a sexual assault survivor. Various exhibits will be setup, including a “Sole Survivors’” tent, which will display men, women and children’s shoes with sexual assault facts for each population. Additionally, there will be a “Clothesline Project” to decorate shirts that serve as a physical representation to honor or remember those who have been affected by sexual violence. Teal ribbons, T-shirts and light snacks will be provided.
Members of the University community will lead the “Take Back the Night” march, representing the solidarity of women and men who aren’t afraid to stand up and speak out against violence. The candlelight vigil as well as survivor speak-out will conclude the event in Osprey Plaza by honoring victims and survivors of intimate partner violence.
“Take Back the Night” events have been held by colleges and communities around the globe for more than 40 years and provide an opportunity for women to break the silence of abuse and victimization, bringing people together to stand in unity against interpersonal violence in their communities.
These events are free and open to the public. For more information, contact the UNF Women’s Center at (904) 620-2528 or at [email protected].
UNF, a nationally ranked university located on an environmentally beautiful campus, offers students who are dedicated to enriching the lives of others the opportunity to build their own futures through a well-rounded education.
Florida College Students Named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team
Twenty-Nine Central Florida College Students
Named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team
The Florida Department of Education today announced that 29 Central Florida college students from the Florida College System have been named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team. Statewide, 127 students are being honored for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service to their communities.
“I am pleased to congratulate each of these students on receiving this tremendous honor and to thank them for the dedication they have shown to their schools and communities,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “Florida College System institutions do an excellent job providing students with educational opportunities that lead to life-long success, and this accomplishment highlights that hard work.”
Earning a spot on the All-Florida Academic Team affords students additional scholarship opportunities at Florida universities. Additionally, these students are considered for scholarships sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, ranging in value from $1,000 – $5,000, which students can use to continue their education anywhere in the nation.
“I’m excited to congratulate this group of outstanding scholars who have excelled in their studies and earned a place on the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team,” said Division of Florida Colleges Chancellor Madeline Pumariega. “This is a prestigious honor, and I look forward to recognizing all of these students at the awards ceremony.”
Listed below are the students enrolled in Central Florida colleges who are being recognized as members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team.
- College of Central Florida
- Danielle Bryan
- Madeline Ginn
- Katlyn McNeal
- Jennifer Rivera
- Daytona State College
- Ryan Kirby
- Teresa Lattimore
- Gilarys Garcia Milan
- Eastern Florida State College
- Zhenee Brown
- Laura Carroll
- Jonathan Howell
- Victoria Kitt
- Jessica Larios
- Ana Perez
- Noelle Villanueva
- Leah Walker
- Lake-Sumter State College
- Neyzha Borrero
- Emily Crown
- Jing Lin
- Kaitlin Soos
- Seminole State College of Florida
- Stevanna Ames
- Nicholas Moy
- Timothy Pearce
- Madison Wildey
- Valencia College
- Miguel Cid Espaillat
- Misty Dawson
- Krista Hall
- Yasmeen Labead
- Michael Onuchovsky
- Maria Berrios Pizarro
Chancellor Pumariega will recognize the members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team at an awards ceremony on April 7, 2017 in Tallahassee. To view full listing of student team members, click here.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Six North Florida College Students Named
to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team
The Florida Department of Education today announced that six North Florida college students from the Florida College System have been named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team. Statewide, 127 students are being honored for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service to their communities.
“I am pleased to congratulate each of these students on receiving this tremendous honor and to thank them for the dedication they have shown to their schools and communities,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “Florida College System institutions do an excellent job providing students with educational opportunities that lead to life-long success, and this accomplishment highlights that hard work.”
Earning a spot on the All-Florida Academic Team affords students additional scholarship opportunities at Florida universities. Additionally, these students are considered for scholarships sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, ranging in value from $1,000 – $5,000, which students can use to continue their education anywhere in the nation.
“I’m excited to congratulate this group of outstanding scholars who have excelled in their studies and earned a place on the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team,” said Division of Florida Colleges Chancellor Madeline Pumariega. “This is a prestigious honor, and I look forward to recognizing all of these students at the awards ceremony.”
Listed below are the students enrolled in North Florida colleges who are being recognized as members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team.
- Florida Gateway College
- Tracy Robinson
- Florida State College at Jacksonville
- Crystal Owens
- Alexander Perales
- Keiser University
- Melissa Esposito
- Santa Fe College
- Francisco Marchi De Azevedo Lourenco
- Jessica Trochez
Chancellor Pumariega will recognize the members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team at an awards ceremony on April 7, 2017 in Tallahassee. To view full listing of student team members, click here.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Sixteen Palm Beach Area College Students
Named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team
The Florida Department of Education today announced that 16 Palm Beach area college students from the Florida College System have been named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team. Statewide, 127 students are being honored for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service to their communities.
“I am pleased to congratulate each of these students on receiving this tremendous honor and to thank them for the dedication they have shown to their schools and communities,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “Florida College System institutions do an excellent job providing students with educational opportunities that lead to life-long success, and this accomplishment highlights that hard work.”
Earning a spot on the All-Florida Academic Team affords students additional scholarship opportunities at Florida universities. Additionally, these students are considered for scholarships sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, ranging in value from $1,000 – $5,000, which students can use to continue their education anywhere in the nation.
“I’m excited to congratulate this group of outstanding scholars who have excelled in their studies and earned a place on the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team,” said Division of Florida Colleges Chancellor Madeline Pumariega. “This is a prestigious honor, and I look forward to recognizing all of these students at the awards ceremony.”
Listed below are the students enrolled in Palm Beach area colleges who are being recognized as members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team.
- Indian River State College
- Hannah Artille
- Jaci Atkinson
- Edwin Bustamante
- Caleb Bockoras
- Lishelen Herrera
- Ashley Lardizzone
- Yajaira Lopez
- Shauni Rivero
- John Starkis
- Lisa Trinidad
- Palm Beach State College
- Joshua Ciorciari
- Crystal Edwards
- Christy Laflamme
- Rina Raad
- Rafael Bernardo Velazquez
- Rosalyn Velez
Chancellor Pumariega will recognize the members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team at an awards ceremony on April 7, 2017 in Tallahassee. To view full listing of student team members, click here.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Sixteen Panhandle College Students Named
to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team
The Florida Department of Education today announced that 16 Panhandle college students from the Florida College System have been named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team. Statewide, 127 students are being honored for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service to their communities.
“I am pleased to congratulate each of these students on receiving this tremendous honor and to thank them for the dedication they have shown to their schools and communities,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “Florida College System institutions do an excellent job providing students with educational opportunities that lead to life-long success, and this accomplishment highlights that hard work.”
Earning a spot on the All-Florida Academic Team affords students additional scholarship opportunities at Florida universities. Additionally, these students are considered for scholarships sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, ranging in value from $1,000 – $5,000, which students can use to continue their education anywhere in the nation.
“I’m excited to congratulate this group of outstanding scholars who have excelled in their studies and earned a place on the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team,” said Division of Florida Colleges Chancellor Madeline Pumariega. “This is a prestigious honor, and I look forward to recognizing all of these students at the awards ceremony.”
Listed below are the students enrolled in Panhandle colleges who are being recognized as members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team.
- Gulf Coast State College
- David Holmes
- Alleah Johnson
- Northwest Florida State College
- Macayla Abercrombie
- Ashley Archer
- Harrison Blount
- Bradley Cochrane
- Joanna Lara
- Morgan Masek
- Paul Swanson
- Emily Summers
- Cameron Wakeland
- Pensacola State College
- Shaina Busby
- Katherine Casperson
- Kristina Jacques
- James Rutger
- Teri Vandenberg
Chancellor Pumariega will recognize the members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team at an awards ceremony on April 7, 2017 in Tallahassee. To view full listing of student team members, click here.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Twenty-Seven South Florida College Students
Named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team
The Florida Department of Education today announced that 27 South Florida college students from the Florida College System have been named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team. Statewide, 127 students are being honored for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service to their communities.
“I am pleased to congratulate each of these students on receiving this tremendous honor and to thank them for the dedication they have shown to their schools and communities,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “Florida College System institutions do an excellent job providing students with educational opportunities that lead to life-long success, and this accomplishment highlights that hard work.”
Earning a spot on the All-Florida Academic Team affords students additional scholarship opportunities at Florida universities. Additionally, these students are considered for scholarships sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, ranging in value from $1,000 – $5,000, which students can use to continue their education anywhere in the nation.
“I’m excited to congratulate this group of outstanding scholars who have excelled in their studies and earned a place on the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team,” said Division of Florida Colleges Chancellor Madeline Pumariega. “This is a prestigious honor, and I look forward to recognizing all of these students at the awards ceremony.”
Listed below are the students enrolled in South Florida colleges who are being recognized as members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team.
- ASA College
- Juan Mosquera
- Broward College
- Quratulain Amin
- Sana Amin
- Chiara Cava
- Michele Khadir
- Jose Lopez
- Mario Petrov
- Giveth Rocha
- Robert Sekuloski
- Florida Keys Community College
- Mariah Medina
- Greigh Olson
- Miami Dade College
- Vanessa Aleman
- Anabella Arria
- Rachel Diaz
- Alina Garcia
- Alexa Jauregui
- Joseph Martinez
- Scott Medina-Jiron
- Jenifer Rodriguez
- Melanie Rodriguez
- Sahar Shafique
- Lunide Sylne
- Emina St Gerard
- South Florida State College
- Margaret Dunn
- Kelsey Pena
- Abigail Wiggins
- Summer Xiong
Chancellor Pumariega will recognize the members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team at an awards ceremony on April 7, 2017 in Tallahassee. To view full listing of student team members, click here.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Eight Southwest Florida College Students
Named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team
The Florida Department of Education today announced that eight Southwest Florida college students from the Florida College System have been named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team. Statewide, 127 students are being honored for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service to their communities.
“I am pleased to congratulate each of these students on receiving this tremendous honor and to thank them for the dedication they have shown to their schools and communities,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “Florida College System institutions do an excellent job providing students with educational opportunities that lead to life-long success, and this accomplishment highlights that hard work.”
Earning a spot on the All-Florida Academic Team affords students additional scholarship opportunities at Florida universities. Additionally, these students are considered for scholarships sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, ranging in value from $1,000 – $5,000, which students can use to continue their education anywhere in the nation.
“I’m excited to congratulate this group of outstanding scholars who have excelled in their studies and earned a place on the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team,” said Division of Florida Colleges Chancellor Madeline Pumariega. “This is a prestigious honor, and I look forward to recognizing all of these students at the awards ceremony.”
Listed below are the students enrolled in Southwest Florida colleges who are being recognized as members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team.
- Florida SouthWestern State College
- Veronica Aguilera
- Lindsay Brubaker
- Claudie Heriveaux
- Cierra Homic
- State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota
- Juliana Arias
- Gina Panik
- Matthew Press
- Maria Quezada
Chancellor Pumariega will recognize the members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team at an awards ceremony on April 7, 2017 in Tallahassee. To view full listing of student team members, click here.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Nineteen Tampa Bay Area College Students
Named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team
The Florida Department of Education today announced that 19 Tampa Bay area college students from the Florida College System have been named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team. Statewide, 127 students are being honored for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service to their communities.
“I am pleased to congratulate each of these students on receiving this tremendous honor and to thank them for the dedication they have shown to their schools and communities,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “Florida College System institutions do an excellent job providing students with educational opportunities that lead to life-long success, and this accomplishment highlights that hard work.”
Earning a spot on the All-Florida Academic Team affords students additional scholarship opportunities at Florida universities. Additionally, these students are considered for scholarships sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, ranging in value from $1,000 – $5,000, which students can use to continue their education anywhere in the nation.
“I’m excited to congratulate this group of outstanding scholars who have excelled in their studies and earned a place on the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team,” said Division of Florida Colleges Chancellor Madeline Pumariega. “This is a prestigious honor, and I look forward to recognizing all of these students at the awards ceremony.”
Listed below are the students enrolled in Tampa Bay area colleges who are being recognized as members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team.
- Hillsborough Community College
- Abdoulaye Ba
- Melissa De La Cruz
- Nicole Liberato
- Imane Malih
- Emily Otten
- Abigayle Renk
- Allen Rogers
- Lance Wood
- Polk State College
- Ariel Ellis
- Lauren Marie Mayo
- Oliver Tejada
- Pasco-Hernando State College
- Kelly Gordie
- Diana Castro Jaramillo
- St. Petersburg College
- Anthony Allen
- Rachel Cruz
- Stephen-Lee Delong
- Natalie Moyer
- Clayton Olinger
- Madison Veeneman
Chancellor Pumariega will recognize the members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team at an awards ceremony on April 7, 2017 in Tallahassee. To view full listing of student team members, click here.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Six Big Bend College Students Named
to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team
The Florida Department of Education today announced that six Big Bend college students from the Florida College System have been named to the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team. Statewide, 127 students are being honored for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership and service to their communities.
“I am pleased to congratulate each of these students on receiving this tremendous honor and to thank them for the dedication they have shown to their schools and communities,” said Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart. “Florida College System institutions do an excellent job providing students with educational opportunities that lead to life-long success, and this accomplishment highlights that hard work.”
Earning a spot on the All-Florida Academic Team affords students additional scholarship opportunities at Florida universities. Additionally, these students are considered for scholarships sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, ranging in value from $1,000 – $5,000, which students can use to continue their education anywhere in the nation.
“I’m excited to congratulate this group of outstanding scholars who have excelled in their studies and earned a place on the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team,” said Division of Florida Colleges Chancellor Madeline Pumariega. “This is a prestigious honor, and I look forward to recognizing all of these students at the awards ceremony.”
Listed below are the students enrolled in Big Bend colleges who are being recognized as members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team.
- Chipola College
- Jayde Smelcer
- Elizabeth Varnum
- North Florida Community College
- Jessica Carter
- Claire Jolicoeur
- Tallahassee Community College
- Sandra Artecona
- Kelxy Butler
Chancellor Pumariega will recognize the members of the 2017 All-Florida Academic Team at an awards ceremony on April 7, 2017 in Tallahassee. To view full listing of student team members, click here.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Gov. Rick Scott Appointments for Friday, March 31, 2017
Governor Scott Appoints Andrea Watt McHugh
to the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court
Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Andrea Watt McHugh to the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court.
McHugh, 38, of Sarasota, has served as an Assistant State Attorney in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit since 2005, and was previously an attorney with Lobeck and Hanson, P.A. She received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa and a law degree from Florida State College of Law. McHugh fills the vacancy created by the resignation of Judge Andrew D. Owens, Jr.
Governor Scott Appoints Ana Maria Garcia
to the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit Court
Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Ana Maria Garcia to the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit Court.
Garcia, 39, of Marianna, is currently the Jackson County Chief Assistant State Attorney for the Fourteenth Judicial Circuit. Previously, she was in private practice with Carlton Fields, P.A., and with Moye, O’Brien, Pickert, and Dillon, LLP. She received a bachelor’s and law degree from the University of Florida. Garcia fills the vacancy created by the resignation of Judge William Wright.
Governor Scott Appoints Judge Susanne Wilson
Bullard to the Eighth Judicial Circuit Court
Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Judge Susanne Wilson Bullard to the Eighth Judicial Circuit Court.
Bullard, 52, of Gainesville, has served as a County Judge for Alachua County since 2014, and previously served as an Assistant State Attorney for the Eighth Judicial Circuit. She received a bachelor’s and law degree from the University of Florida. Bullard fills the vacancy created by the resignation of Judge Robert E. Roundtree, Jr.
Governor Scott Appoints Judge Tanya Davis
Wilson to the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court
Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Judge Tanya Davis Wilson to the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court.
Wilson, 48, of Ocoee, has served as a County Judge for Orange County since 2014. Previously, she served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida from 2004 to 2014. Prior to that, she served as an Assistant Federal Public Defender and as an Assistant Public Defender for the Ninth Judicial Circuit. She received her bachelor and law degrees from the University of Florida. Wilson fills the vacancy created by the death of Judge Scott D. Polodna.
Governor Scott Appoints Anne-Leigh Gaylord
Moe to the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court
Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Anne-Leigh Gaylord Moe to the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court.
Moe, 38, of Tampa, is currently a shareholder with Bush Ross, P.A., and previously served as a federal law clerk for Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington, United States District Judge for the Middle District of Florida. She received a bachelor’s degree from Furman University and a law degree from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University. Moe fills the vacancy created by the resignation of Judge Herbert J. Baumann.
Governor Scott Appoints Jared E. Smith to the Hillsborough County Court
Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Jared E. Smith to the Hillsborough County Court.
Smith, 41, of Lutz, is currently a shareholder with Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell, P.A., and previously served as a JAG Officer with the United States Air Force. He received a bachelor’s degree from Fort Hays State University and a law degree from Washburn University School of Law. Smith fills the vacancy created by the resignation of Judge Walter Heinrich.
Governor Rick Scott Appoints One to Florida Housing Finance Corporation
Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Martha Lanahan to the Florida Housing Finance Corporation.
Lanahan, 52, of Tampa, is the executive vice president of Regions Bank. She succeeds Brian Katz and is appointed for a term beginning March 31, 2017, and ending November 13, 2020.
This appointment is subject to Senate confirmation.
Governor Rick Scott Appoints Virginia Sanchez to the Governing
Board of the Suwannee River Water Management District
Governor Rick Scott today announced the reappointment of Virginia Sanchez to the Governing Board of the Suwannee River Water Management District.
Sanchez, 54, of Old Town, is a co-owner of Sanchez Farms, LLC. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and her master’s degree from Florida A&M University. Sanchez is reappointed for a term beginning March 31, 2017, and ending March 1, 2021.
The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Governor Rick Scott Appoints J.C. Stoutamire to the
Apalachee Regional Planning Council, Region Two
Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of J.C. Stoutamire to the Apalachee Regional Planning Council, Region Two.
Stoutamire, 81, of Hosford, is a former papermaker for St. Joe Paper Co. Additionally, he served on the Liberty County Board of County Commissioners for eight years. Stoutamire fills a vacant seat and is appointed for a term beginning March 31, 2017, and ending October 1, 2018.
The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Governor Rick Scott Appoints Two to the Governing Board
of the St. Johns River Water Management District
Governor Rick Scott today announced one appointment and one reappointment to the Governing Board of the St. Johns River Water Management District.
Susan Dolan, 51, of Longwood, is the director of community affairs for Waste Pro of Florida, Inc. She succeeds Maryam Ghyabi and is appointed for a term beginning March 31, 2017, and ending March 1, 2021.
Douglas Burnett, 72, of St. Augustine, is the president of Doug Burnett and Associates, LLC. He is reappointed for a term beginning March 31, 2017, and ending March 1, 2021.
The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
Governor Rick Scott Appoints Kristin Incrocci
to the Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority
Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Kristin Incrocci to the Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority.
Incrocci, 51, of Sarasota, is the owner and pilot of SRQ Aviation. She received her bachelor’s degree from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach. Incrocci fills a vacant seat and is appointed for a term beginning March 31, 2017, and ending November 17, 2018.
Governor Rick Scott Appoints Luke Buzard to Early
Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County, Inc.
Governor Rick Scott today announced the reappointment of Luke Buzard to the Early Learning Coalition Hillsborough County, Inc.
Buzard, 37, of Wesley Chapel, is the pipeline safety director at TECO Energy. He previously served as chair of both the Accounting Circle at University of South Florida and the West Central Region for Connect Florida. Buzard received his bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida and is reappointed for a term beginning March 31, 2017, and ending April 30, 2020.
Governor Rick Scott Appoints Amy Gowder
to the Florida Defense Support Task Force
Governor Rick Scott today announced the appointment of Amy Gowder to the Florida Defense Support Task Force.
Gowder, 41, of Orlando, is the aerospace and defense executive for Lockheed Martin. She received her bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University and her master’s degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Gowder fills a vacant seat and is appointed for a term beginning March 31, 2017, and ending July 1, 2019.
As Work Zone Safety Awareness Week Begins, FDOT Asks, ‘What Drives You?’
During National Work Zone Safety Awareness Week from April 3-7, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) wants to steer discussions about safety toward a simple question all motorists should ask.
That question is “What Drives You?”
The answer may remind those behind the wheel to drive more safely and to examine whether they have been doing enough to stay alert and keep within posted speed limits while passing through a construction work zone.
“Think about what drives you every day – your family, career, life experiences,” said Steve Martin P.E., FDOT District Five Secretary. “We need drivers to do everything they can to stay safe on our roads so they can enjoy the things that matter to them.”
FDOT is investing $175.6 million in various safety initiatives during the 2017-18 fiscal year. Moreover, it’s not just about protecting highway workers. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports that 99 percent of work zone crashes injure drivers and their passengers without involving road crews.
Drivers can reduce their chances of being involved in a work zone crash by maintaining proper speed, avoiding tailgating, paying attention, and minimizing distractions. “Everyone on the road shares a responsibility – workers, drivers and passengers – to ensure everyone can go home safely at the end of the day,” Martin said.
FDOT is participating in several safety awareness events this week to highlight work zone safety in Central Florida. The schedule includes:
Monday, April 3 – A media event in Maitland in the I-4 Ultimate construction zone next to live traffic will highlight the ongoing importance of work zone safety. Those participating include FDOT District Five Secretary Steve Martin, FDOT Public Information Manager Steve Olson and FHP Trooper Steven Montiero. Also taking part will be SGL Constructors, including Maintenance of Traffic Manager David Feise and Area Construction Manager Jack Leider, both with the I-4 Ultimate Project.
Tuesday, April 4 – Media is invited to attend a short presentation and activity given to children at Volusia Pines Elementary School in Volusia County. Kids will learn how important safety is in the work zone and tell us what drives them. This activity shows that even children, passengers on the road, are motivated by special things in their lives.
Wednesday, April 5 – National Go Orange for Safety Day. Everyone is encouraged to wear orange colors to show their commitment to staying safe on the roadways. Share photos and stories with the hashtag #WhatDrivesYou and #OrangeForSafety. In honor of the occasion, several Central Florida landmarks will be lit up at night in orange lights. Among the familiar sights expected to go orange for the evening are the Lake Eola fountain, the Amway Center spire, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, the Lynx Central Station building, and Aloft Orlando Downtown.
Thursday, April 6 – Seminole County Sheriff’s Office will perform an enforcement operation in the work zone of the FDOT project on US 17/92 from Shepard Road to Lake Mary Boulevard. Other work zone enforcement operations will be happening around the Central Florida region.
Media alerts will be sent out the day before each event that will highlight what, when and where each event will be. Media is invited to participate in all scheduled events.
FDOT manages nearly 44,000 lane miles of roadway in the Sunshine State, including 8,378 in Central Florida. FDOT’s current five-year work program includes more than 6,800 construction and maintenance projects statewide.
Nightly eastbound I-4 rolling roadblocks from Kirkman Rd. to SR-408 scheduled for March 31-April 2
Rolling roadblocks on eastbound Interstate 4 (I-4) from Kirkman Road (State Road 435) to State Road 408 (S.R. 408) are scheduled as soon as 12 a.m. until 6 a.m. for three consecutive nights beginning on Friday, March 31.
The eastbound I-4 exit ramp to South Street and eastbound S.R. 408 ramp to eastbound I-4 will be closed each night in conjunction with the rolling roadblocks to accommodate construction. The South Street exit will be closed as soon as 10 p.m. until 7 a.m. and the S.R. 408 ramp will be closed as soon as 12 a.m. until 6 a.m. Detour routes for both of these ramp closures are available online to download or view at: http://fdot.tips/EBI4rolling.
The eastbound I-4 rolling roadblocks will begin near Kirkman Road and end at S.R. 408. Multiple rolling roadblocks are scheduled to occur each night. Each rolling roadblock will create a 30-minute window for crews to place girders over eastbound I-4 to widen the S.R. 408 overpass.
Eastbound I-4 entrance ramps between the Kirkman Road and S.R. 408 interchanges will be temporarily blocked. As the rolling roadblock passes each interchange, law enforcement officers will reopen its entrance ramp. In total, nine eastbound I-4 entrance ramps will be temporarily closed during the rolling roadblocks. View or download an online map of the temporary on-ramp closures at: http://fdot.tips/EBI4rolling.
Modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving through the work zone.
For real-time traffic information on I-4, including up-to-date progress on rolling roadblocks, stay tuned to the Florida Department of Transportation’s 511 Traveler Information System. Visit FL511.com for interactive roadway maps showing traffic congestion and crashes, travel times and traffic camera views.
The I-4 Ultimate project is rebuilding 21 miles of Interstate 4 (I-4) from west of Kirkman Road in Orange County to east of State Road 434 in Seminole County, adding two new dynamic tolled Express Lanes in each direction, replacing more than 140 bridges, reconfiguring 15 major interchanges and reconstructing the entire roadway.
Toby Overdorf Launches Campaign for Florida House
Overdorf, a Republican, will run in District 83 on a conservative
platform of lower taxes and fewer government regulations.
Toby Overdorf announced his candidacy for the Florida House of Representatives today. Overdorf, a longtime Treasure Coast resident and business owner, is running on a platform of pro-growth economic policies that promote job creation, greater economic prosperity, and the completion of necessary environmental restoration projects. He is seeking the District 83 seat in the Florida House.
“With the right policies in place, I have no doubt that Florida’s best days are ahead of us,” said Overdorf. “For too many years, I’ve seen firsthand how too much regulation and excessive taxation strangle our free enterprise system. We’ve got to unleash entrepreneurs and small business owners to innovate and pursue expansion that will put more people to work.”
Overdorf founded Crossroads Environmental Consultants in 2002 and served as its president until 2016. In that role, he expanded the business to become a nationally recognized company certified by the U.S Government to perform throughout the United States and the northern Caribbean. Currently, he is the Environmental Division President of EDC, Inc., a full-service local land development firm that he has expanded from seven to 28 employees.
He has been very active in the community, providing leadership to several local organizations, including serving as President of the Palm City Chamber of Commerce. He also served on the Board of Directors of Leadership Florida, as a Torrey Pines Molecular Institute Trustee, and the St. Lucie County Economic Development Council.
“Experience has taught me how important it is for us to have a strong conservative voice in Tallahassee,” said Overdorf. “I look forward to working hard to make sure government serves the people and not the other way around. The fact that I am a small business owner and science-educated gives me the ability to be a unique voice for my constituents.”
District 83 has been represented since 2010 by Gayle Harrell, who faces term limits in 2018. It includes parts of Martin and St. Lucie Counties.
Paid by Toby Overdorf, Republican, for State Representative
Florida Couple Arrested in Drug Diversion Scheme
Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement today announced the arrest of a Naples couple in connection with a drug diversion scheme fueled by Medicaid fraud. According to the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and FDLE investigation, Francisco Calderon, 53, and his wife Zulima Calderon, 51, trafficked more than $3.9 million of contraband prescription drugs between 2005 and 2013.
“This massive scheme to sell millions of dollars’ worth of contraband prescription drugs and exploit our Medicaid program has been shut down thanks to the great work of my Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, my Office of Statewide Prosecution and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement,” said Attorney General Bondi.
“Medicaid fraud cases are complex and time consuming and I appreciate the hard work of the investigators on this case,” said FDLE Commissioner Rick Swearingen. “The Calderon’s not only stole money from taxpayers, they are also responsible for tens of thousands of illegal prescription drugs flooding the streets in the Southeastern United States.”
The Calderons did not have a license to engage in wholesaling pharmaceuticals and allegedly used their Florida-based corporation, All Technician Specialty, Inc. to launder money from the sales of contraband pharmaceuticals to a previously charged co-defendant Jorge Castillo. In 2013, authorities arrested Castillo for involvement in the scheme and Castillo is now serving 25 years in prison. For more information on Castillo’s sentencing, click here.
According to the investigation, the couple used illegal profits to purchase homes in Naples and Miramar for hundreds of thousands of dollars each. At the time of the arrests, Attorney General Bondi’s Office seized the Miramar property pursuant to Florida’s civil racketeering laws.
Francisco and Zulima Calderon each face one count of trafficking in contraband prescription drugs, Medicaid fraud, organized scheme to defraud and money laundering, all first-degree felonies. Each count is punishable up to 30 years in prison. Attorney General Bondi’s Office of Statewide Prosecution is prosecuting the case.
The Calderons are the 37th and 38th persons charged or convicted since 2010 by the Attorney General’s task force targeting Medicaid-related drug diversion. Since 2010, the task force has seized close to $10 million in cash and property and more than $7 million of contraband pharmaceuticals off the streets. Additionally, task force investigators assisted law enforcement efforts in similar cases in New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Tennessee and Puerto Rico. The combined amount of fraud perpetrated by these individuals in Florida is estimated to be more than $250 million.
The Florida Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigates and prosecutes providers that intentionally defraud the state’s Medicaid program through fraudulent billing practices. Medicaid fraud essentially steals from Florida’s taxpayers. From Jan. 2011 to the present, Attorney General Bondi’s MFCU has obtained more than $689 million in settlements and judgments. Additionally, the MFCU investigates allegations of patient abuse, neglect, and exploitation in facilities receiving payments under the Medicaid program.
Huckabee Headlines Annual Legislative Prayer Breakfast
In addition to Huckabee’s keynote address, former Senator Pat
Neal receives the 2017 Defender of Faith and Freedom Award.
On Wednesday, representatives from all three branches of state government attended the annual Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition Legislative Prayer Breakfast in Tallahassee. Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee delivered a powerful keynote address to the crowd of almost 300 on the importance of people of faith engaging in politics and culture. This year’s event was co-hosted by Concerned Women for America of Florida.
Huckabee, now a resident of Walton County, thanked the leaders in attendance, including Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam, House Speaker Richard Corcoran, and Supreme Court Justices Ricky Polston and Alan Lawson, for their willingness to serve, acknowledging to laughter from the crowd that his current role of political commentator is much easier and pays better than the hard work of actually governing.
“If our culture is going to be preserved, kept from decay and rotting, we can’t look to the people in Hollywood, to the people in New York, and we sure can’t look to the people in Washington,” said Huckabee. “We’ve got to look to the people in our churches.”
“I believe in government and politics and legislation, I really do,” said Huckabee. “But I still believe the greatest power is not the power of elected office, but the power the Father gives us through the Son and invites us to access every single day.”
Putnam, the 2016 recipient of the Defender of Faith and Freedom Award, presented this year’s award to former Senator Pat Neal, the owner of Neal Communities in Sarasota.
“Pat Neal is a man of deep and abiding faith,” said Putnam. “He continues to give back, not only to our community but to our state. His faith and his works are to be emulated and admired by us all.”
Other speakers included Corcoran, who talked about the importance of integrity in public life, regardless of personal consequences. National Faith and Freedom Coalition Executive Director Tim Head urged attendees to contact Senator Bill Nelson to encourage him to support the confirmation of Judge Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court. Senators Daphne Campbell and Keith Perry read scripture from the Old and New Testaments.
“Governor Huckabee’s message on the need for people of faith to engage in politics rather than retreat from our culture was spot on,” said Jim Kallinger, Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition President. “His charge for us to be ‘salt’ and ‘light’ as Jesus taught is one we should all take to heart as we work for public policies that will promote the common good and protect the most vulnerable in our society.”
In addition to Putnam, Corcoran, Polston, Lawson, Campbell, and Perry, other elected officials in attendance were:
- State Senator Dennis Baxley
- State Representative Byron Donalds
- State Representative Jay Fant
- State Senator Denise Grimsley
- State Representative Gayle Harrell
- State Representative Stan McClain
- Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil
- State Representative George Moraitis
- State Representative Mel Ponder
- State Representative Cyndi Stevenson
About Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition
The Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition is committed to educating, equipping, and mobilizing people of faith and like-minded individuals to be effective citizens. Together, the Coalition influences public policy and enacts legislation that strengthens families, promotes time-honored values, protects the dignity of life and marriage, lowers the tax burden on small business and families, and requires government to tighten its belt and live within its means.
ON THE WEB: www.ffcflorida.com
Sponsored and Paid for by the Florida Faith and Freedom Coalition
HIGHLIGHTS: Board of Governors Meeting, March 29-30
From data on student mental health to the Board of Governors’ first-ever
Annual Report for Online Education, the Board this week took up a number
of important initiatives during its meeting at Florida A&M University.
The Board of Governors this week pushed forward on several initiatives to ensure accountability and progress for the State University System and to make sure students are getting the resources they need to be successful.
Those include approval of the Board’s Annual Accountability Report, which showed that universities demonstrated year-over-year improvement on six of the eight performance funding metrics that are shared by all universities. The Board’s new metric on cost to the student showed that the average cost of earning a bachelor’s degree is less than $15,000 after financial aid is taken into account. Additionally, the report shows that 34 degree programs were eliminated during the 2015-16 academic year.
“The Annual Accountability Report is a critical part of the Board’s nationally recognized accountability system, and it plays a huge role in keeping us on track to meet our goals,” said Tom Kuntz, Board of Governors Chair. “Best of all, if you look at our remarkable improvement each year, it’s clear that our approach is working.”
The Board also approved its first-ever Annual Report for Online Education, which documents the System’s progress toward the goals set out in the 2025 Strategic Plan for Online Education and identifies opportunities for improvements. Florida continues to be a leader in online education, ranking second in the nation in the number of students enrolled in distance learning courses. Sixty-one percent of State University System students took at least one distance learning course in 2015-16.
“Florida is one of the first and only states to implement a Strategic Plan for Online Education, which guides the growth of online education in the System and makes sure that our 12 institutions have high-quality and cost-efficient instruction and services,” said Ned Lautenbach, Board of Governors Vice Chair and Chair of the Innovation and Online Committee. “Our Annual Report shows that we are moving in the right direction to meet our goals.”
The Board also heard new data on student mental health, which included a steep increase in year-over-year demand for services. As an example, the number of crisis visits more than doubled from 4,200 to 9,100 between 2014-15 and 2015-16, and the number of Baker Act hospitalizations grew from 300 to 440.
“Many of our students are dealing with serious and complex mental health issues, and we need to make sure that those who need counseling are able to access it quickly and without barriers,” said Norm Tripp, Chair of the Academic and Student Affairs Committee. “In some cases, counseling could make the difference in whether these students are able to graduate and go on to live healthy, productive lives.”
The meeting also included a Think Florida: A Higher Degree for Business panel, including Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Director Cissy Proctor, Florida Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Mark Wilson, and Florida Council of 100 President and CEO Bob Ward. The panel was moderated by Chancellor Marshall Criser III and included questions from Board members.
“The business community is a critical partner for our universities, which is why we have ramped up our efforts to make sure we’re listening to employer needs,” Chancellor Criser said. “All three of our panelists came with great ideas and advice for our universities and students.”
Additional meeting highlights include:
- The State University System launched of the Safer, Smarter, Stronger campaign, designed to promote the State University System priorities on student mental health and security, university research, and performance funding.
- The Task Force on University Research discussed the Research and Innovation Metrics Dashboard, designed to document the System’s progress toward its research goals. Additionally, the Board heard a presentation on the immediate and long-term impact of university research on the economic and social vitality of Florida.
- The Board confirmed the appointment of Michael Martin as president of Florida Gulf Coast University, contingent on a revised employment agreement.
- The Board confirmed the reappointment of University of South Florida President Judy Genshaft.
- The Board appointed Dean Colson to Florida International University’s Board of Trustees. Mr. Colson previously served as chair of the Board of Governors and chair of the University of Miami Board of Trustees.
- The Board approved the University of Central Florida Lake Nona Medical Center, a joint-venture between UCF’s College of Medicine and Hospital Corporation of America. No state funds will used for construction of what is proposed as an initial 100 bed hospital.
For more information, consult the meeting’s official minutes at http://www.flbog.edu/. The Board’s next meeting is scheduled for June 19-21 at the University of South Florida in Tampa.
Facts about the State University System of Florida and the Board of Governors
The State University System of Florida is a constitutional body led by the 17-member Board of Governors. The system has 12 universities and more than 338,000 students, making it the second-largest public university System in the nation. Responsibilities include defining the distinctive mission of each institution and managing the System’s coordination and operation. The Board appoints a Chancellor who serves as the System’s chief executive. For more, visit www.flbog.edu, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, or download the Board of Governors’ app.
