For seasonal or career opportunity, the American Red Cross-certified lifeguarding course at Daytona State College provides training to develop rescue skills and learn First Aid, CPR and AED. Participants will learn how to prevent accidents through knowledge of lifeguarding, proper use of equipment and understanding responsibilities.
The course begins on Thursday, March 23, at 5 p.m. with a required pre-test consisting of a 300-yard continuous swim, a timed swim of 20 yards followed by a surface dive to recover a 10-pound brick and return to start point, and two minutes of treading water.
Successful participants will then begin the class with two hours of instruction from 7 to 9 p.m. The course continues on Friday, March 24, from 6 to 9 p.m.; Saturday, March 25, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and concludes on Sunday, March 26, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Course fee is $150 (plus $35 American Red Cross Certification fee) and requires a $50 non-refundable deposit due by March 20.
The American Red Cross-certified lifeguarding course consists of classroom and pool time, and will be held on the college’s Daytona Beach Campus, Lemerand Center, Aquatic Center, located at 1200 W. International Speedway Blvd.
To register or for more information, call the DSC Aquatic Center, (386) 506-4386.
Featured
It’s Time to Get the Lead out of School Drinking Water, Says Environment Florida
Citing growing evidence of pervasive lead contamination in schools’ drinking water, Environment Florida today launched a new Get the Lead Out campaign calling for swift action to ensure lead-free water in Florida’s schools. An analysis by Environment Florida Research & Policy Center gave Florida a grade of F for failing to prevent children’s drinking water from becoming laced with lead at school.
“Schools should be safe places for our kids to learn and play, but Florida is failing to protect our kids from lead in drinking water,” said Jennifer Rubiello, Environment Florida State Director. “Kids’ developing brains are especially susceptible to highly toxic lead so it’s time to get the lead out.”
As more Florida schools test their water, they are finding lead. FAMU Assistant Professor of Environmental Health Don Axelrad and FSU Professor Vincent Salters tested 24 schools in Leon and Wakulla counties and found levels of lead that exceed what the America Academy of Pediatrics deems as safe.
“Lead is a potent neurotoxin, affecting the way our kids learn, grow, and behave,” said Dr. Ron Saff, Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine at the Florida State University College of Medicine. “There is no safe level of lead for children.”
Yet a new report by Environment Florida Research & Policy Center shows that such confirmed cases of lead-laced water are likely just the tip of the iceberg. For example, the report cites new data from Massachusetts, where half of more than 40,000 tests conducted last year showed some level of lead in water from taps at school.
All too often, schools (and homes) have pipes, plumbing and/or fixtures that leach lead into drinking water. In some cases, old service lines – the pipes that brings water from the mains in the street into buildings – are made entirely of lead.
Unfortunately, current state law requires nothing to prevent children’s drinking water from becoming laced with lead at school. In Environment Florida’s comparison of 16 states, these shortcomings gave Florida a grade of F.
“Florida is in the Stone Age when it comes to protecting kids from lead in school drinking water,” said Dr. Saff. “We need to be removing lead-bearing plumbing parts from our schools. When youngsters go to class, their IQ should be expanded. Tragically, when they drink lead laced water found in school taps and water fountains, it shaves off IQ points.”
“I’m disappointed to find that Florida’s efforts are an F at the back of the class for protecting children from lead at school,” said Nicole Crumbsy, whose children attend school in Hillsborough County. “I don’t want to worry about my children drinking water with lead. Our kids deserve better. It’s time to get the lead out.”
The report identifies key solutions to ensuring clean drinking water in schools including removing lead service lines, requiring filters certified to remove lead at every tap used for drinking and cooking, and allowing no more than 1 part per billion of lead in water at school, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Parents in other states are demanding action too. Environment Florida’s counterparts are working with doctors, parents and community leaders in seven other states to advance policies that Get the Lead Out of schools and daycares.
City Officials Talk Tax Reform, Flood Insurance and Infrastructure Funding with Florida’s Congressional Delegation
Florida League of Cities Federal Action Strike
Team (FAST) Members Bring Local Issues to D.C.
Florida’s 412 municipalities have to deal with a wide range of issues in their communities, many of which are governed and financed by federal legislation and programs. With a new Congress in Washington that includes several freshman members from Florida, municipal officials have a unique opportunity to build relationships with members of the state’s Congressional Delegation and discuss issues of importance for cities and citizens.
With tax reform, infrastructure funding and flood insurance high on the list of pressing issues for Floridians, the Florida League of Cities Federal Action Strike Team (FAST) recently visited members of Florida’s Congressional Delegation in Washington, D.C., to remind them about what’s most important to their constituents back home.
Twenty-eight Florida municipal officials representing all regions of the state participated in the 2017 FAST Fly-in. On this bi-annual advocacy trip, the FAST team met with 20 members of Florida’s Congressional Delegation and staff, including Senators Bill Nelson and Marco Rubio. Before attending meetings with Florida’s senators and members of Congress, the group visited the National League of Cities (NLC) offices for a federal briefing from the NLC Federal Relations Team.
“Our Florida League of Cities Federal Action Strike Team had yet another successful trip to Washington,” said FAST Chair and Longwood Mayor Joe Durso. “League members should be proud of the leadership that FAST members showed as we continued to advocate for tax reform policies that are not harmful to cities, a fair playing field for our local businesses, commonsense flood insurance reform and reliable infrastructure funding.”
FAST team members were prepared to discuss statewide issues with real-world examples of how their hometowns are affected and may be affected in the future. This year’s federal agenda focused on preserving the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds, improving the FEMA Public Assistance Program, and maintaining support for an equitable federal flood insurance program.
“One of the best things about the FAST team is the many different cities its members represent. From small to large, rural to urban and everything in between, these municipal officials demonstrate the wide range of challenges that a state as geographically and economically diverse as Florida faces,” said FLC Legislative Director Scott Dudley. “Each participant brought a unique perspective to our meetings, which helped our members of Congress get a better understanding of how the issues we discussed really impact Florida’s cities.”
The FAST committee was created in support of the League’s strategic plan objective to strengthen its federal relations. The primary purpose of the committee is to establish proactive and reactive communications with the Florida Congressional Delegation in support of federal municipal policy. The committee takes its policy positions and direction from the League’s resolutions and the National League of Cities policy priorities, as well as from the League’s officers and board.
FAST members meet throughout the year, at the two FLC conferences in Florida and two delegation visits to Washington, D.C., each year.
Founded in 1922, the Florida League of Cities is the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments. Its goals are to promote local self-government and serve the needs of Florida’s cities. Florida’s cities are formed by their citizens and governed by their citizens. The League is founded on the belief that local self-government is the keystone of American democracy. For more information, visit www.floridaleagueofcities.com.
Governor Rick Scott and First Lady Ann Scott Announce 2017 Black History Month Student and Teacher Contest Winners
Governor Rick Scott and First Lady Ann Scott today announced the 2017 Black History Month student contest winners and Excellence in Education award recipients. This year’s theme was “A Recognition of the Role of African-Americans in Shaping Florida Today,” and the winners were honored during the annual Black History Month reception at the Florida Governor’s Mansion.
Governor Scott said, “Ann and I look forward to celebrating Black History Month every year and recognizing the countless individuals who have made a tremendous impact on our great state. I am honored to recognize this year’s student winners on their accomplishments and thank the educators for their commitment to Florida’s students.”
First Lady Ann Scott said, “Black History Month is a time to celebrate the unique and diverse culture that we value so much in Florida. I was very impressed with this year’s contest entries. When I visit schools across our beautiful state, I am excited to see the students’ enthusiasm about learning and encourage them to celebrate the accomplishments of African-Americans who have made an impact on their lives.”
The 2017 Black History Month featured artist is Eluster Richardson. Eluster’s artwork has won numerous awards and has been exhibited in a variety of settings, including the Museum of Florida History, Lemoyne Art Foundation, Florida State Museum of Art, Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art and the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C. Eluster began painting as a child in the third grade and currently maintains a studio in Tallahassee.
Governor Scott and First Lady Ann Scott honored three outstanding educators with the Excellence in Education Award. These individuals were nominated by students and peers, and each received $1,500 from Volunteer Florida.
Excellence in Education award recipients are:
- Kimberly Rostick, Corbett Preparatory School of IDS, Tampa, Hillsborough County
- Michael Burton, Workman Middle School, Pensacola, Escambia County
- Makeda Brome, Lincoln Park Academy, Fort Pierce, St. Lucie County
The following student essay contest winners – one elementary, one middle, and one high school student – earned a four-year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation.
Student essay contest winners are:
- Isabel Alvarez, Aventura City of Excellence Public Charter School, Aventura, Miami-Dade County (4th-5th grade)
- Destiny Stewart, Deer Lake Middle School, Tallahassee, Leon County (6th-8th grade)
- Nathalie Sieh, Clearwater Central Catholic School, Clearwater, Pinellas County (9th-12th grade)
The following student art contest winners each received $250.
Student art contest winners are:
- Hailey Kate Soto, Columbia Elementary School, Orlando, Orange County (Kindergarten-1st grade)
- Christian Dunnon, Glade View Elementary School, Belle Glade, Palm Beach County (2nd-3rd grade)
Volunteer Florida also recognized Champion of Service Wesley L. Harris, Founding Pastor of the Lord’s House International Ministries in Clermont, Florida.
The Black History Month reception and awards are supported by Volunteer Florida, Florida Prepaid College Foundation, and more.
For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.
Governor Rick Scott to Announce Tourism Numbers
Tomorrow, February 16th, Governor Rick Scott will announce Florida tourism numbers for 2016 at the Brevard Zoo.
WHAT: Tourism Numbers Announcement
WHEN: 10:00 AM
WHERE: Brevard Zoo
8225 N Wickham Road
Melbourne, FL 32940
Detour planned for C.R. 470 at I-75 in Sumterville
County Road (C.R.) 470 underneath the Interstate 75 (I-75) overpass bridge will be closed for two nights. From 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 15 and Thursday, Feb. 16, a detour will be in effect. The route will be as follows:
- Northbound I-75 traffic headed to westbound C.R. 470 will be directed to exit at State Road (S.R.) 44 (Exit 329) and access C.R. 470 via I-75 south. Northbound I-75 traffic traveling to eastbound C.R. 470 will not be impacted.
- Southbound I-75 traffic headed to eastbound C.R. 470 will be directed to exit at S.R. 48 (Exit 314) and access C.R. 470 via I-75 north. Southbound I-75 traffic traveling to westbound C.R. 470 will not be impacted.
- Eastbound C.R. 470 traffic headed to I-75 north will be directed to travel I-75 south to S.R. 48 (Exit 314), and re-enter the interstate using the northbound entrance ramp. Eastbound C.R. 470 traffic continuing on C.R. 470 will follow the same detour and exit northbound I-75 at C.R. 470. Eastbound C.R. 470 traffic traveling to southbound I-75 will not be impacted.
- Westbound C.R. 470 traffic headed to I-75 south will be directed to travel I-75 north to S.R. 44 (Exit 329), and re-enter the interstate using the southbound entrance ramp. Westbound C.R. 470 traffic continuing on C.R. 470 will follow the same detour and exit southbound I-75 at C.R. 470. Westbound C.R. 470 traffic traveling to northbound I-75 will not be impacted.
- Northbound C.R. 475 traffic headed to westbound C.R. 470 will be directed to travel north on I-75 to S.R. 44 (Exit 329), re-enter the interstate using the southbound entrance ramp, and exit at C.R. 470, bypassing the road closure. Southbound C.R. 475 traffic and northbound C.R. 475 traffic traveling to eastbound C.R. 470 will not be impacted.
In addition to closing a portion of C.R. 470, the southbound off ramp at Exit 321 will be closed for a duration of 10 to 15 minutes on both Wednesday and Thursday nights. The closure is required for the contractor, D.A.B. Constructors Inc., to set beams for the new C.R. 470 bridge. The work is part of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) I-75 widening project from C.R. 470 to just south of Florida’s Turnpike.
Please note that this schedule may change due to weather or other unexpected conditions. Project updates will be posted to FDOT’s Central Florida website, www.cflroads.com.
For media-related questions, please contact the Public Information Office at 386-943-5473 or [email protected].
To ensure your safety and the safety of others, please exercise extra caution when driving through construction work zones.
A very happy Valentine's Day for $500,000 GOLD RUSH DOUBLER top prize winner from DeLand
The Florida Lottery announces that Eric Wachter, 58, of DeLand, claimed a top prize in the $500,000 GOLD RUSH DOUBLER Scratch-Off game at Florida Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee. He purchased his winning ticket from Ray’s Sunoco, located at 701 East New York Avenue in DeLand.
The new $5 Scratch-Off game, $500,000 GOLD RUSH DOUBLER, launched in January, and features more than $182.8 million in prizes, including 44 top prizes of $500,000. The game’s overall odds of winning are one-in-3.98.
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.
LWV Florida Welcomes Kelly Quintero as Legislative Liaison
The League of Women Voters of Florida announces Kelly Quintero as their registered lobbyist for the 2017 legislative session. Pamela Goodman, President said, “Kelly brings a fresh voice and excellent communication skills to our LWV Florida strong advocacy team. I am pleased to have her in Tallahassee amplifying the voices of our thousands of members throughout the state.”
Kelly Quintero is a native Floridian and is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a degree in Political Science. Upon graduation, she accepted a position at the Orange County Tax Collector’s office, most recently serving as the Deputy Communications Director. While there, she spearheaded bilingual media relations, digital media and community relations. Quintero served as the Central Florida Political Director during the 2016 Presidential campaign coordinating activities throughout 11 Central Florida counties. She has also volunteered her time in leadership capacities in both political and social issues. Kelly resides in Orlando, Florida with her fiancé.
The League of Women Voters of Florida, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. For more information, please visit the League’s website at: www.TheFloridaVoter.org.
Gov. Rick Scott to Host Fighting for Florida Jobs Roundtable in St. Cloud
Tomorrow, February 16th, Governor Rick Scott will host a Fighting for Florida Jobs Roundtable with business owners, economic development leaders, tourism leaders, and community members to discuss the local economic impact of VISIT FLORIDA and Enterprise Florida.
WHAT: Fighting for Florida Jobs Roundtable
WHEN: 2:30 PM
WHERE: The Catfish Place
2324 13th St.
St. Cloud, FL 34769
Record number of students to compete in statewide archery tournament Feb. 25 in Bartow
More than a thousand students are registered to compete in the 2017 Florida National Archery in the Schools Program State Tournament, a record number of participants for this increasingly popular event. The statewide archery tournament, hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), will be held Feb. 25 in Bartow. Admission is free for spectators.
The National Archery in the Schools Program is a cooperative effort between the FWC and the Florida Department of Education that teaches international style target archery in fourth-12th grade physical education classes. More than 470 Florida schools offer NASP, which covers archery history, safety, technique, equipment, mental concentration and self-improvement.
“Archery is a very inclusive activity for students. Boys and girls from a wide range of ages, skill levels and physical abilities can participate and succeed,” said Steve Robbins, coordinator for the statewide tournament. “Archery provides some obvious benefits such as helping to build muscle endurance, flexibility, hand-eye coordination, and grip and body strength. It also teaches discipline, respect and self-control.”
The 10th annual Florida NASP State Tournament will be conducted in two formats: a live tournament that will take place Feb. 25 at Carver Recreation Center, 520 Idlewood Ave. S., Bartow, and a virtual tournament for schools whose students cannot travel. The virtual tournament allows students to shoot for a score at their own school and enter the results in a digital database that compares virtual and live tournament scores.
Winners will be announced in three divisions: elementary, middle and high school. Trophies will be awarded to the top three schools in each division and the top boy and girl shooter in each division. In addition, a top overall male and female shooter will be recognized and presented with a Genesis bow. Every student participating in the live and virtual tournament will receive a T-shirt and a certificate.
In addition to the competition, there will be activities for competitors and spectators attending this free event, including an outdoor aerial archery game. For competing student shooters who wish to participate, there is an additional 3-D archery range competition with prizes, including bows provided by Bear Archery.
For more information about NASP, visit MyFWC.com/NASP.
