The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will meet Feb. 8-9 at the Plantation on Crystal River, 9301 W. Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, Florida 34429.
The meeting both days starts at 8:30 a.m. Both sessions are open to the public and the public will be provided opportunities to speak.
For the full Feb. 8-9 agenda and links to background reports, go to MyFWC.com/Commission and select “Commission Meetings.”
Those unable to attend can follow live coverage at Twitter.com/MyFWC (Twitter handle: @MyFWC) and join in the conversation using the #FWC2017 hashtag. Check the Florida Channel for possible live video coverage at TheFloridaChannel.org.
The FWC welcomes public input at all of our Commission meetings. To accommodate as much input as possible from those attending the upcoming meeting, the Chairman reserves the right to designate the amount of time given to each speaker, including time donation to other speakers.
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State Senator Daphne Campbell objects to Mayor Gimenez siding with President Trump's Muslim ban
State Senator Daphne Campbell on Wednesday strongly criticized Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Giménez’s decision to abandon its “sanctuary city” policy, and called on him to join her in standing with immigrants and their families against Donald Trump’s anti-Muslim executive order.
“The United States is a country composed of immigrants. They are woven into the very fabric of our society,” said Senator Campbell, who was born in Haiti and immigrated to the United States in 1981. “We must not forget our roots. All Americans were immigrants at some point in our lineage. Miami has a proud history of extending a hand of welcome to the persecuted, the poor, the victims of natural disasters and those made by man. We cannot afford to turn our backs on what makes this city and this nation an international beacon of hope.”
Last week, Miami-Dade County became our nation’s first jurisdiction to abandon its so-called “sanctuary city” policy in response to a highly controversial executive order issued by President Trump. In a surprise move, Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Giménez abruptly ordered county officials to comply with all “detainer requests” from the Department of Homeland Security, which ask local law enforcement to jail suspects without warrant until they can be picked up by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials.
Thousands of Miami-Dade residents were immediately impacted by Mayor Gimenez’s announcement. In fact, Senator Campbell’s office has received many calls from the families of potentially affected constituents pleading for assistance and answers. “This is no way for the City of Miami to treat the most vulnerable among us. We must do better,” said Senator Campbell.
Protests erupted at Miami International Airport and throughout the nation against Trump’s refugee ban. “I stand with Boston Mayor Marty Walsh, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, Boulder Mayor Suzanne Jones, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee, San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo, Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf, Seattle Mayor Ed Murray, Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser, Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh, and the thousands of others speaking out for immigrant rights!” said Senator Campbell.
“I strongly urge Mayor Giménez to remember his own history, and join me in doing the same and to retract his memo for the betterment of the constituency that put him in office.”
ICYMI: ABC Action News: Gov. Scott unveils $83.5 billion budget
“Gov. Scott Unveils $83.5 Billion Budget”
WFTS-TB (ABC Action News) – Tampa Bay, FL
January 31, 2017
To view the clip, click HERE.
Seminole State College nursing graduates ranked first in Central Florida
Graduates of Seminole State College of Florida’s Nursing Program have another reason to celebrate. They are ranked first in Central Florida with a 99.4 percent pass rate on their licensure exams.
The Board of Nursing just released the results of the annual 2016 National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rates for Florida and Seminole State College earned the top spot among other Central Florida programs including the University of Central Florida, Keiser University, Adventist University of Health Sciences, Valencia College, and Lake-Sumter State College.
NCLEX is the state-required exam that determines whether graduates are prepared for entry-level nursing practice. Seminole State College’s 99.4 percent pass rates were remarkably higher than the 2016 state average of 72.68 percent, and the national average of 84.56 percent.
“The 2016 NCLEX pass rates for our nursing graduates are some of the highest in the state,’ says Dr. Cheryl Cicotti, associate dean for nursing. “These results speak to the hard work and dedication of the students and the nursing faculty/staff, and, highlight the efforts of the entire college toward promoting student success.”
To meet the tremendous demand for nurses, Seminole State has expanded its nursing enrollment by more than 300 percent over the past decade. In fact, the Job Placement Rate (2014 FETPIP data) of Seminole State’s nursing graduates is at a monumental 98 percent.
Just recently, Seminole State’s Nursing Program was ranked the No. 10 Best Nursing Program in Florida by RegisteredNursing.org.
Nursing programs were assessed on several factors which represent how well a program supports students towards licensure and beyond. This included analyzing past and present NCLEX-RN “pass-rates” – weighted by year. For more information about the methodology visit the RegisteredNursing.org website.
As part of their studies and training, Seminole State College nursing students are equipped with state-of-the-art healthcare labs and high-tech patient simulators. This includes the “Victoria” birthing simulator that creates lifelike labor and delivery providing students with hands-on experience for birth scenarios.
The College’s Nursing Program, part of the Ann Wiggins Moore Center for Nursing and Healthcare Professionals, is based at the Altamonte Springs Campus. To learn more, visit the nursing website.
NASA mission is one step closer to launching into space
A NASA instrument that will study the upper atmosphere and the impact of space weather on Earth is a step closer on its journey into space.
The Global-scale Observations of the Limb and Disk (GOLD) mission, led by University of Central Florida (UCF) scientist Richard Eastes, is scheduled to launch in late 2017 from Florida. Earlier this month the instrument, built by the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) at the University of Colorado in Boulder, Colo., was shipped to Airbus Defence and Space in Toulouse, France, for integration on the SES-14 communications satellite, on which it will be launched into space.
“I am excited to see GOLD take the next critical step in its journey toward providing scientists around the world with an unprecedented view of the Earth’s upper atmosphere, which will advance research for understanding space weather,” said Eastes, who is based at the Florida Space Institute at UCF.
Space weather can adversely affect technology and human activity in space, from disrupting communications systems to exposing astronauts to serious health risks.
“Space weather affects the satellites that we depend on for things like GPS and satellite TV; it affects the satellites themselves, as well as the signals they transmit,” Eastes said. “What we learn from GOLD’s images will help us understand how space weather changes during geomagnetic storms and how to avoid the problems that they cause.”
Joyce King is the mission manager for GOLD at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md.
“GOLD is one of several missions that is managed by the Explorers Program for NASA’s Heliophysics Division,” King said. “As NASA explores farther and farther from home, sending astronauts and spacecraft to distant places, we need better situational awareness about the space we’re traveling through. NASA studies the space environment around the sun, around planets, far into the solar system — and around Earth. GOLD focuses on the part near Earth.”
LASP, which has a seventy-year long history of providing instruments for NASA missions, built the GOLD instrument in collaboration with UCF. While weather satellites view clouds from geostationary orbit (an altitude of approximately 22,370 miles), GOLD will view a higher region of Earth’s upper atmosphere known as the thermosphere. This is a region (extending from approximately 55 to 500 miles altitude) where most satellites fly and through which the signals from all satellites pass.
Bill McClintock is a planetary scientist at LASP and GOLD deputy principal investigator.
“Today, NASA studies the thermosphere using spacecraft that give scientists intermittent views of the thermosphere. From those spacecraft it takes a day or more to build a global-scale image,” said McClintock. “The communication satellite carrying GOLD will be in geostationary orbit, meaning it will be fixed at one location above the Earth’s surface. This orbit enables GOLD to view nearly an entire hemisphere all the time. If a geomagnetic storm dumps energy into the thermosphere, we can watch the global-scale response on timescales of hours, rather than days. It’s a whole new way of looking at the dynamic behavior of the thermosphere.”
GOLD is a pathfinder for NASA’s use of commercial spacecraft for science missions. UCF and LASP partnered with SES Government Solutions (SES GS), based in Reston, Va., to provide GOLD with its ride into geostationary orbit on the SES-14 satellite that is owned and operated by SES, the parent company of SES GS.
Todd Gossett is the SES GS project manager for hosting GOLD on the SES-14 satellite.
“SES is honored to be a contributing member of the GOLD team. NASA’s concept to have missions such as GOLD hosted on commercially owned and operated satellites is a definite win, for not only the American taxpayer, but also for the science community,” Gossett said.
Rory Barrett is an engineer at LASP and the project manager for GOLD.
“We have assembled a world-class team to execute the GOLD mission. LASP has built and delivered one of its best performing science instruments, ever,” said Barrett. “Our strong partnership with SES GS and Airbus will enable a low-cost GOLD mission.”
Other members of the GOLD team include scientists from the National Center for Atmospheric Research, the University of California at Berkeley, Computational Physics Inc., and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Gov. Scott announces grant funding for Zika Virus research and vaccine development
Governor Rick Scott announced today 34 grant awards for Zika virus research following his authorization of $25 million in state funds for Zika research and vaccine development last fall. Grant funding will be used to help expedite the development of a vaccine to prevent Zika infection, understand and mitigate long-term impacts of Zika virus on children and adults and develop innovative, cost-effective Zika testing methods.
Governor Scott said, “I am proud to announce the recipients of these important research grants today. While we are currently in winter months when Zika is not as prevalent, we must remain vigilant and continue to do everything we can to help protect pregnant women and their developing babies. I look forward to seeing the innovation and progress of Florida’s world-class research institutions as we continue to work together in the fight against Zika and to find a vaccine.”
State Surgeon General and Secretary Dr. Celeste Philip said, “While we are currently experiencing a seasonal reprieve from the Zika virus, we cannot relax our efforts. I am grateful for Governor Scott’s leadership that enables us to provide researchers in Florida funds to expand the body of knowledge related to Zika, particularly in the areas of prevention and effects on infants and children.”
The Florida Department of Health (DOH) oversaw the grant process, which was awarded through a competitive process based on recommendations by the Biomedical Research Advisory Council. Researchers at any university or research institute in Florida were eligible to apply.
The following organizations received grant funding awards:
Florida Atlantic University – $199,280
Florida International University – $2,183,004
Florida State University – $2,169,675
Moffitt Cancer Center – $199,280
Nova Southeastern University – $198,886
The Scripps Research Institute – $199,280
University of Central Florida – $1,297,817
University of Florida – $2,922,999
University of Miami – $13,170,784
University of South Florida – $2,458,995
For a full breakdown on projects and grant funding, please click HERE.
Albritton congratulates Senator Denise Grimsley
State Representative Ben Albritton released the following statement following today’s announcement by State Senator Denise Grimsley that she is running for Florida Commissioner of Agriculture:
“Senator Denise Grimsley is a friend of mine and has been a great public servant for many years. Becasue of her background, she understands the issues and challenges that we face on a daily basis here in Florida’s heartland. I congratulate her on her decision to run for Commissioner of Agriculture.”
Florida Chief Justice Jorge Labarga holds media availability before Commission on Access to Civil Justice meeting
Who: Florida Chief Justice Jorge Labarga, former president of The Florida Bar and Commission Executive Chair Greg Coleman, immediate past president of The Florida Bar Foundation Donny MacKenzie, and The Florida Bar Foundation Executive Director and CEO Bruce Blackwell
What: Media Availability to discuss the work of the Florida Commission on Access to Civil Justice
When: 10 a.m., Friday, February 3
Where: Hotel Duval Horizon Room, 415 N. Monroe St., Tallahassee
Florida Chief Justice Jorge Labarga will lead a media availability to discuss the continuing work of the standing Commission on Access to Civil Justice ahead of its first meeting in 2017.
The commission works to address the barriers that impede access to civil justice faced by hundreds of thousands of Floridians. Many low- and moderate-income people face the prospect of civil cases related to such things as veterans’ benefits, foreclosures, child custody, debt collection, and other vital matters without a lawyer. A 2015 Justice Gap Analysis found only a quarter of parties in non-family civil cases are represented by lawyers.
The people of Florida have limited access to do-it-yourself legal forms and guides, pro bono representation and formalized legal aid services. These are commendable, but inadequate. The Access to Civil Justice Commission has initiated a pilot program and undertaken other efforts to help determine the best way forward to expand basic access to the civil justice system. Chief Justice Labarga will address reporters on their vital role in providing information about both the problem and solutions. In addition, representatives of The Florida Bar Foundation will share information about a study showing the economic impact of the pro bono work Florida’s lawyers provide.
Please note: The full Commission on Access to Civil Justice meeting is scheduled for 1-4:30 p.m. in the same location. It is open to the public.
Senator Jeff Brandes files bill to implement Amendment 2
Proposal eliminates cap on licenses and expands access to Florida patients
Senator Jeff Brandes (R-St. Petersburg) today filed Senate Bill 614, Medical Marijuana, to implement Amendment 2 passed by 71% of Florida voters on the 2016 General Election ballot. If adopted, the legislation will repeal Florida’s existing marijuana laws and replace them entirely with a broader set of regulations designed to encourage more participation from medical marijuana providers.
“The overwhelming support of Amendment 2 was a strong mandate that Floridians demand fundamental change to the way we regulate medical marijuana,” stated Senator Brandes. “The laws on the books today promote a state-sanctioned cartel system that limits competition, inhibits access, and results in higher prices for patients. This legislation outright repeals Florida’s defective law.”
“Florida should focus on what is best for patients,” Senator Brandes continued. “The state today artificially limits the number of marijuana providers, promoting regional monopolies and standing in the way of the physician-patient relationship. This legislation removes those barriers, and will provide expanded access to Floridians who could benefit from the use of these products.”
The legislation eliminates existing statutory caps on Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs), and establishes 4 new types of function licenses for MMTCs: cultivation, processing, transportation, and retail. The bill does not require MMTCs to be vertically integrated. Under the new regulatory approach, a MMTC is free to possess any function license or a combination of multiple function licenses. Retail licenses are permitted on a population basis of 1 license per 25,000 residents in every county, and local governments may prohibit any retail facility in their jurisdiction. A MMTC with a transportation license may deliver marijuana to qualifying patients, guaranteeing access to those who reside within jurisdictions where retail facilities are banned. Senator Brandes was the first Republican legislator to endorse Amendment 2, and he proposed legislation in 2015 and 2016 to reform Florida’s medical marijuana laws.
For more information on SB 614 please visit http://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2017/0614.
Best of the best UNF alums recognized during annual awards ceremony
The University of North Florida Alumni Association announces the recipients of its alumni awards, honoring several notable graduates for exemplary service and contributions to the University during its annual Alumni Recognition Dinner and Awards Ceremony, 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, at the Student Union Ballroom, Building 58W, Room 3703, on campus.
“UNF alumni, over 80,000 strong, continue to achieve greatness in their professions and in contributions to their communities,” said Maxine Cooper, president of the UNF Alumni Association board. “This year’s award recipients continue that example, representing outstanding distinction and success, while being excellent ambassadors of the University.”
Honorees include Rep. Travis Cummings, Florida House District 18; Andrew Rush, Made in Space CEO/president; Shannon Italia, adjunct instructor and director of the Career Management Center in the UNF Coggin College of Business; and Dwight Cooper III, Professional Placement Resources Talent Management Group CEO/co-founder.
Cummings, a Fleming Island resident, is the recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award, the highest award given to a UNF graduate by the Alumni Association. This award recognizes alumni who have made a significant contribution to their profession, community and/or society, having consistently maintained the pursuit of excellence as a representative and graduate of the University.
“I am honored and humbled to receive this award. My MBA from UNF has greatly benefited me throughout my career,” said Cummings. “As a lifelong resident of Northeast Florida, I am very aware of the contributions this University makes to our community.”
Cummings’ district mainly includes Clay County residents. He serves on the Clay County Delegation and is a member of the Appropriations Committee, Rules and Policy Committee and chair of the Health and Human Services Committee. He previously served a four-year term as the Clay County commissioner for District 3 and two years as County Commission chairman as well as Orange Park mayor and councilman from 2002-08.
Cummings is very involved in the community, including serving as chairman of both the Clay County Charter Review Commission and the Clay County YMCAs. He also serves as president of both the Jacksonville KA Alumni Chapter and Jacksonville Bulldog Club. Additionally, Cummings served on several boards, including the North Florida Transportation Planning Organization, the Jacksonville Association of Health Underwriters, the Borland-Groover Foundation, the Boys and Girls Club of North Florida and the Orange Park Medical Center.
Rush, a Saint Johns resident, is the recipient of the Young Alumni Achievement Award, presented for outstanding professional achievement, contributions to the community and exemplary service to the University. His company, Made In Space, is innovating additive manufacturing, like 3-D printing, to work in zero gravity and space environments. Rush is also a patent lawyer and worked for three years as a partner at PCT Law Group. During his time at UNF, he was actively engaged in the Department of Physics, worked closely with his mentor Dr. Lev Gasparov, professor of physics, and was an inspiring role model for students and volunteer.
Italia, a Lakewood resident, is the recipient of the Alumni Service Award, presented to alumni who have demonstrated continuous outstanding volunteer service to the University and/or meritorious public service. In addition to her contributions to Coggin, she has been on the Advisory Board of Rethreaded since March 2014 and is the current chair. She also served on the Advisory Board of the Jacksonville Women’s Business Center from 2011-16. Italia is the founder and advisor to the UNF Women in Business Society, an organization that was created to develop female leaders. In August 2013, she was recognized as a Woman of Influence by the Jacksonville Business Journal.
Cooper, a Ponte Vedra Beach resident, is the recipient of the Honorary Alumni Award, given to friends and supporters for exemplary service to the University. For 10 consecutive years, his company, Professional Placement Resources, placed among the Top 25 Best Small Companies to Work For in America by the Great Place to Work Institute, receiving the No. 1 spot in 2013. Cooper was assistant coach of the men’s basketball team for five seasons in the early 90s and then continued as a basketball color analyst for the University. He’s the former chair of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and a long-time advocate for the Brooks College of Health, where he serves as the immediate past chair of the Dean’s Leadership Council. The MS Society 2017 Dinner of Champions will honor Cooper, joining a list of Jacksonville’s finest leaders, including Hugh Greene of Baptist Medical Center and UNF President John Delaney.
Tickets to the Alumni Recognition Dinner and Awards Ceremony are $35 each and are available online. The last day to purchase tickets is Friday, Feb. 3. The UNF Alumni Association’s purpose is to foster, maintain and support a mutually beneficial relationship between alumni and the University.
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.
