We Honor Their Sacrifice – Commissioner Andy Solis

/0 Comments/in , /by

Military Appreciation Month

Throughout the month of May, our nation is given opportunity to pause and to remember the sacrifices necessary to maintain the liberty and justice we can sometimes take for granted. Loyalty Day, VE Day, Military Spouse Appreciation Day, Armed Forces Day, and Memorial Day all come together in National Military Appreciation Month.

In this very important month we honor, remember and recognize all military personnel — those men and women who have served throughout our history, all who now serve in uniform and their families, and especially those Americans who have given their lives in defense of our freedoms we all enjoy today. America stands as a beacon of hope to people around the world because of their valor.

On behalf of the Collier County Veterans Council, I invite you to join me at their Memorial Day Celebration on the 31st; see additional details below. I hope to see you there.
If *you* now feel inspired to service, your County has many opportunities for you to play a part in keeping our community the wonderful place we know and love. Scroll down for more information on all the current openings on advisory committees and boards and authorities. Collier is a very citizen-driven county — we’d love to have you be a part!
Also this month we are testing a new survey function — be sure to cast your vote!

Finally, I will be without my trusty Aide, Angela, next week, as she takes care of some family business out of state. As always, feel free to email or leave us a voicemail, but please know it might take a bit longer to hear back from us. Thanks in advance for your patience. And enjoy the holiday weekend!

It’s almost that time of the year again. Hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through November 30.

The last three years have seen four hurricanes make landfall in Florida and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting an “above-normal” 2021 Atlantic hurricane season, with 13-20 named storms expected.

Because of the unexpected nature of these storms, all Floridians are encouraged to be prepared, and have at least seven days’ worth of supplies on hand. And this weekend you can buy some of those supplies at a reduced cost.

Once again, the state is offering Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday, from May 28 – June 6. The 10-day tax holiday allows Floridians to prepare for hurricane season while not having to pay sales tax on essential disaster preparedness items.

Examples of tax-free items include flashlights and lanterns costing $40 or less, radios costing $50 or less, tarps costing $100 or less, coolers costing $60 or less, batteries costing $50 or less, and generators costing $1,000 or less.

Not sure what you should have on hand? The Florida Department of Emergency Management has a disaster checklist HERE, as well as other resources so you can feel ready to brave the storm.

Have more questions? This FAQ might help!

My office got feedback from some of you that, with the frenzy of the pandemic and the vaccine rollout, I was showing up in your in-box too frequently. So we backed off a bit on the emails. Help us test a new survey function below by voting for how often you’d like to receive newsletters from me:

How often should I send out my email newsletters?

Once a Week
Twice a Month
Once a Month
Every Other Month

What’s Your Neighborhood?

While I sent out fewer emails to the whole list, I have still been working directly with individual neighborhoods on issues specific to their community and its residents, for instance with Palm River regarding road design and sidewalks, or Pelican Isle Yacht Club and the conditions at Wiggins Pass. If you didn’t hear from me, it might be because I don’t know where you live.

Please consider using the link below to update your profile. To keep us cyber-safe, you will get emailed a link to update, so it will take a minute, but it is worth it. Knowing what community you live in can help me get you better information, more relevant to you and your life here in Collier. Especially during fire and hurricane seasons, it can really make a difference. (By the way, it doesn’t matter at all whether you live in District 2 or not; all are welcome! Location info is helpful whenever there’s an unexpected road closure or utility issue, or any kind of emergency.)

Update My Profile

The Collier County Board of County Commissioners is seeking applications for positions on several advisory committees. To serve, you must be a resident and registered voter in Collier County. Read more to learn if there’s a perfect spot for you or someone you know:

The Black Affairs Advisory Board has multiple opportunities for 4-year terms. In your monthly meetings, you would work to identify and evaluate problems unique to the Black Community, review and recommend ways to ensure open communication between minorities and Collier County Government, and provide periodic reports to the Board of County Commissioners.

The Board of Building Adjustments and Appeals has two 4-year terms available, and three seats expiring in August. Consider applying to this five-member board If you are knowledgeable in the Collier County Codes and in one of the following professions: a licensed plumbing or mechanical contractor, a Class “A” general contractor, a state-certified fire protective equipment contractor or fire fighter with a rank of Lieutenant or higher, a licensed electrical contractor, or a state licensed architect or structural engineer. You would meet as needed to hear appeals on rejections or refusals by the Building Code Compliance Director to approve construction methods or materials. This is a quasi-judicial board. (What does that mean? While most of our citizen committees exist to offer advice and recommendations to the County Commissioners for their action, quasi-judicial boards have the power to take independent action or impose fines or penalties, etc.)

Members of the Contractors Licensing Board also serve for 3 years, meeting monthly to determine the qualifications of applicants for the various categories of the Contractors’ Certificates of Competency, and holding hearings to determine if a certificate of competency should be revoked. This is one of those quasi-judicial boards, and it has one vacancy now and three seats expiring in June to be filled by licensed building professionals — either an architect; an engineer; or a general, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, roofing, residential building, or commercial building contractor.

Two of the five positions on the Industrial Development Authority expire in June; members are appointed for a 4-year term. This authority meets as needed and has has the power to sell industrial revenue bonds. Money generated from the bonds is used to construct industrial plants, equipment and other facilities which would then be leased or sold to private industry.

To apply for an advisory committee vacancy, submit an application online or call 239-252-8400 for more information.

District 3 Newsletter – Commissioner Burt Saunders

/0 Comments/in , /by

Welcome to District 3
On May 25, at our regularly scheduled commission meeting, the County Commission voted to enter into a long-term lease with Club Corp for the development of a 12-hole golf course and family entertainment and dining facility at the old Golden Gate golf course.

County residents will be entitled to a 40 percent reduction on all greens fees and will have equal access to all tee times. This will provide truly affordable golf to our county residents.

The County Commission purchased the existing Golden Gate Golf course and has endeavored to re-establish public golf on a course to be redesigned for the benefit of all Collier County golfing enthusiasts looking for a great course at an affordable price. This is the culmination of decades of efforts to bring affordable golf to Collier County as part of the County’s park and recreation program.

Collier County will own and control the course. Club Corp will develop a family entertainment and dining venue as part of the golf course development and will pay concession fees equal to 3 percent of gross revenues from all operations to the County.

Thank you for helping to make Collier County a great place to live, work and play.

Did a friend send you this newsletter? Click here to subscribe now!
Collier County FY 21/22 Budget
Important Dates to Remember

June 24, 2021 Budget Workshop, 9:00 am, BCC Chambers (Televised)
July 13, 2021 Adoption of Tentative Maximum FY 2022 Millage Rates (Televised)
September 9, 2021 Public Hearing Date, 5:05 pm, BCC Chambers (Televised)
September 23, 2021 Public Hearing Date, 5:05 pm, BCC Chambers (Televised)

Board of County Commission Meetings
Second and fourth Tuesdays of each month – The meetings begin at 9:00 a.m. and are broadcast live with closed captioning on Collier Television channel 97/98 and via live streaming at www.colliercountyfl.gov/ctv.

Individuals who would wish to participate in person must complete and submit a speaker form prior to the beginning of the discussion about the item. Individuals who would like to participate remotely must complete and submit the online speaker registration form prior to the beginning of the discussion about the item. The agenda will be available on the County website at http://colliercountyfl.iqm2.com/Citizens/default.aspx.
Logan Blvd. Extension Truck Use Update
On May 25, at the regularly scheduled commission meeting, the County Commission approved a Resolution prohibiting the operation of large trucks and commercial vehicles with a rated load-carrying capacity in excess of five (5) tons from through movement on Logan Blvd. extension between Immokalee Road and the Lee County line. Signs have been posted and will be immediately enforced.
FDOT Southwest Connect I-75 South Corridor Master Plan

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), District One, is hosting a Virtual Public Outreach Meeting for the Southwest Connect™ Interstate 75 (I-75) South Corridor Master Plan from south of SR 951 (Collier Boulevard) to north of SR 78 (Bayshore Road) in Collier and Lee counties, Florida. This workshop will be held online and is available on the project website, www.SWFLInterstates.com/South-Corridor-VPM.

The meeting materials will be available for viewing for 10 days, from June 8 – 18, 2021. In addition, FDOT is hosting a LIVE Question and Answer Event ONLINE from 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 8, 2021. Please visit the project website listed above to register for the virtual Q&A event. If you would like to call into the question and answer session, please dial +1 (562) 247-8422 and enter access code 937-518-510. Attendees that use the call-in option will be able to listen only and will not be able to type in questions during the meeting.

I-75 Southwest Connect™ (South Corridor) is a capacity, safety and operational improvement project on I-75 in Collier and Lee Counties. This project is in the Planning and Feasibility Phase. FDOT will analyze the interstate system’s existing transportation challenges. The findings of the analysis, as well as recommendations to enhance safety and mobility, are documented in a Master Plan. The planned improvements identified in the Master Plan may include widening, managed lanes, modifying interchanges, and/or evaluating new interchanges. The Master Plan will also include public outreach, such as this, which will serve as input in the identification and prioritization of projects to move forward into the Project Development Process. This long-range approach provides a regional perspective to identify the areas where future demand is predicted. This Master Plan will serve as a guide to allow FDOT to focus future efforts and funding toward the most critical areas first.

If you or anyone you know does not have internet access and would like copies of this information, or if you have further questions about the project, please contact the I-75 Project Manager, Ms. Nicole Harris, P.E., at (863) 519-2335 or via e-mail at nicole.harris@dot.state.fl.us. You may also visit the project website at: https://www.swflinterstates.com/i75-south-corridor.

Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Board Meeting – 9 am Friday, June 11, 2021
The Collier Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Board will meet at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, June 11, 2021. This will be a Hybrid Remote meeting and it will be held in the Board of County Commissioners Chambers, third floor, Collier County Government Center, 3299 Tamiami Trail E., Naples, Florida. Some members may be appearing remotely, with staff present in person. One week prior to the meeting, the MPO agenda will be posted on the MPO’s website at colliermpo.org. To access the agenda, go to the calendar and select the meeting date.

Individuals who would like to participate in person must complete and submit a speaker form prior to the beginning of the discussion about the item. Individuals who would like to participate remotely must complete and submit the online speaker registration form prior to the beginning of the discussion about the item. Individuals who would like to participate remotely, should register at MPO Board Meeting Registration.

One or more members of the Collier County Board of County Commissioners, Naples City Council, Marco Island City Council, Everglades City Council and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) may be present and may participate at the meeting. The subject matter of this meeting may be an item for discussion and action at a future meeting of those boards, councils or agencies.

The Board of County Commissioners has authorized a burn ban in Collier County effective immediately.

Per Collier County Ordinance 2009-23, as Amended, the County Manager may recommend an immediate ban of outdoor burning and outdoor ignition sources during extreme drought conditions. The ban prohibits open burning, which is any outdoor fire or open combustion of material that produces visible emissions, of trash and yard waste, which includes vegetative matter resulting from landscaping and yard maintenance operations.

The decision came after a meeting between the Collier County Bureau of Emergency Services, Florida Forest Service, Collier County Fire Chiefs’ Association and the Collier County Sheriff’s Office. The group jointly identified a need to have a burning ban become effective immediately after certain environmental conditions were met, including lack of rainfall in May.

The ban includes all unincorporated Collier County, but exempts all commercial agricultural burning, lawful controlled industrial or commercial environments that are part of the manufacturing or some type of assembly process, and those burning activities regulated by the Florida Forest Service. This ban presently has no impact on the retail sales of fireworks, although the discharge of fireworks, sparklers and incendiary devices is prohibited.

In addition, outdoor grills, stoves, cookers and smokers may be used in the preparation of food if the cooking fire is controlled and attended to. All outdoor cooking areas shall be free of burnable materials within an area having a circumference of three feet beyond the nearest edge of the cooking fire.

Violation of the order, if it is found to cause irreparable or irreversible damage, can be up to $15,000. The ban will remain in effect until further notice. For more information, call 311 or (239) 252-8999.
Collier County Assistance Program

CCAP is a financial assistance program available to Collier County residents and small business owners affected by COVID-19. Applications are now being accepted through the fall or until funds are depleted. The program benefits households (individuals and families), households with senior members (60 years or older), landlords, small businesses, and temporary quarantine situations.

Household Assistance
Full-time Collier County residents behind on mortgage, rent or utility payments due to the economic challenges presented by COVID-19 may qualify for assistance. Past due payments must have accumulated as the result of COVID-19 and must be documented. Please see the frequently asked questions (FAQ) page for details about eligibility and documentation requirements.

Aid is available for past due bills going back (arrearage) to March 13, 2020. Applicants must have been current on their rent, mortgage and utility accounts as of March 13, 2020. Arrearage is available up to a one time maximum of $10,000 payment for rent, mortgage and utility relief. However, applicants will also be screened for benefits through the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program, which does not have a cap on funds and only assists with rent payments through fall 2021. Doing this will allow the county to help more residents. If applicants do not qualify for aid through the CCAP, they may qualify through the ERA and vice versa.

Business Assistance
Small businesses, nonprofits and agricultural operations may qualify for assistance with past due water and electric bills and repayment of the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL). Your business(es) must be in Collier County, have a business tax license, hold a Sunbiz registration (when applicable), and employ 100 or less full-time equivalent (FTE) staff. Applicants should select small business during the application process.

Business owners that own more than one business, with each business having its own employer identification number (EIN), and meets all other eligibility requirements, may apply for assistance for each business. An application must be submitted for each business. For past due water and electric bill assistance, the utility accounts must be in the name of each business. Each qualified application may receive a one-time grant of up to $25,000 toward EIDL repayment and utility assistance. Since this is a grant and not a loan, it does not need to be paid back.

Contact Information
The Assistance Center is located at 13245 Tamiami Trail East, Suite 102, in Naples. To schedule an in-person appointment, please call (239) 450-2114 or email CCAPinfo@colliercountyfl.gov.

When Emergencies Happen in Collier County, We Can’t Alert You if We Can’t Reach You
Collier County encourages all residents to sign up for Alert Collier, the County’s new mass notification system. When you sign up with Alert Collier you can enter up to five addresses within the County boundaries that you would like to receive emergency alerts about. Enter your home, work, relative, school or any other address that’s important to you.

Should an alert be issued for that location, you will receive a notification.
You can sign up with your cell phone to receive calls and/or text messages, your email address(es), home phone, business phone and hearing impaired device. Collier County encourages you to also download the Everbridge Public Safety app (free in the iOS, Android and Windows app stores), this app will allow you to see all public notifications issued across the State and Country by other Everbridge users. Live in Lee county but work in another County? No problem you can receive their emergency alerts just by having the app installed.

So, create a contact on your phone for Alert Collier: the caller ID our alerts will come from is 239-252-8000, and the short code our texts will come from is 89361 and 87844. Save Alert Collier as a contact today!

SIGN UP HERE

H O T L I N E
866-779-6121
The best sources for clear information on the pandemic are our state health department or the CDC. The Florida hotline above is staffed 24/7.

Vaccine Report
(updated daily)

Florida Department of Health

Florida COVID-19 Dashboard
(updated daily at mid-day; contains county-specific data)

Centers for Disease Control COVID-19 site

World Health Organization
Copyright © 2021 Collier County Commission District 3, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:
Collier County Commission District 3
3299 Tamiami Trl E Ste 303
Naples, FL 34112-5746

RPOF Newsletter – Chairman Joe Gruters

/0 Comments/in /by

Chairman’s Message

Fighting back against Big Tech

The legal guardrails are now officially installed around Big Tech in a major step toward ensuring that Floridians of any worldview have well-protected speech rights on social media. Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 7072, which will hold Big Tech accountable by driving transparency and safeguarding Floridians’ ability to access and participate in online platforms.

“This session, we took action to ensure that ‘We the People’ — real Floridians across the Sunshine State — are guaranteed protection against the Silicon Valley elites,” Governor DeSantis said. “Many in our state have experienced censorship and other tyrannical behavior firsthand in Cuba and Venezuela. If Big Tech censors enforce rules inconsistently, to discriminate in favor of the dominant Silicon Valley ideology, they will now be held accountable.”

The major points of the new buttressing that include:

All Floridians treated unfairly by Big Tech platforms will have the right to sue companies that violate this law — and win monetary damages. This reform safeguards the rights of every Floridian by requiring social media companies to be transparent about their content moderation practices and give users proper notice of changes to those policies, which prevents Big Tech bureaucrats from “moving the goalposts” to silence viewpoints they don’t like.
The Attorney General of Florida can bring legal action against technology companies that violate this law, under Florida’s Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act. If social media platforms are found to have violated antitrust law, they will be restricted from contracting with any public entity. That “antitrust violator” blacklist imposes real consequences for Big Tech oligopolies’ bottom line.
Big Tech is prohibited from de-platforming Floridian political candidates. The Florida Election Commission will impose fines of $250,000 per day on any social media company that de-platforms any candidate for statewide office, and $25,000 per day for de-platforming candidates for non-statewide offices. Any Floridian can block any candidate they don’t want to hear from, but is not for Big Tech to decide.
You can read the full text of Senate Bill 7072 here: https://www.myfloridahouse.gov/Sections/Documents/loaddoc.aspx?FileName=_s7072er.DOCX&DocumentType=Bill&BillNumber=7072&Session=2021

Big Tech made clear the need for this law over and over. But the brash activists in Silicon Valley took down a Youtube video of Governor DeSantis’ March roundtable with premier national doctors and epidemiologists from Harvard and Stanford — right in the middle of the session debating this bill. The pretend white-coat censors simply will not allow dissenting opinions to stand and see themselves as all powerful. So Florida acted.

Strong Republican leadership across the board stood in defence of all Floridians’ free speech.

“I’m pleased to see Florida setting the example by doing everything in our power to stop the abuses that are possible when big tech goes unchecked. People have a right to express opposing views,” said Senate President Wilton Simpson.

“Social media platforms have morphed into the town square,” said Speaker Chris Sprowls. “If our democracy is going to survive, we must stand up to these technological oligarchs and hold them accountable.”

Read more here: https://flgov.com/2021/05/24/governor-ron-desantis-signs-bill-to-stop-the-censorship-of-floridians-by-big-tech/

Legislation

Teachers, school principals and superintendents in Baker County, Sarasota County and Okaloosa County joined Governor DeSantis for his announcement of $765 million in funding to support Florida’s teachers. These investments include $550 million to continue elevating minimum teacher salaries, as well as $215 million to provide all of Florida’s eligible public school principals and teachers with $1,000 disaster relief payments.

The Florida Legislature and Governor DeSantis worked hard to continue funding support for Florida’s teachers through the Florida Leads budget. Over the past year, minimum pay for Florida’s teachers increased by an average of $6,000 — from $40,000 to $46,000. Overall, 68 of Florida’s 74 school districts (92 percent) now have a starting salary of $40,000 or higher.

“While most other states locked down their schools, Florida followed the science and opened our schools for in-person instruction, five days a week,” Governor DeSantis said. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of our teachers and school leaders Florida succeeded where so many other states failed. I can’t thank them enough for their hard work and dedication during this school year and these bonuses are a small way to say thank you on behalf of our state.”

Read more: https://flgov.com/2021/05/26/governor-ron-desantis-announces-more-than-765-million-in-record-funding-for-teachers/

Florida Update

Florida’s economy continues to surge forward under strong, principled, conservative leadership, leading America out of the pandemic response-induced downturn.

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity announced Florida now has recorded 12 consecutive months of job growth, gaining 18,800 private sector jobs in the month of April. From April 2020 to April 2021, Florida has gained a total of 795,800 private sector jobs. Florida’s unemployment rate of 4.8 percent remains well below the national average of 6.1 percent, even as its labor force in April 2021 increased by 73,000 over the month, reaching its highest point since the beginning of the pandemic. So more than 70,000 people entered the labor force looking for jobs in April and virtually all of them found jobs.

“Through Governor DeSantis’ leadership, our state has remained open for business, leading to an unemployment rate consistently below the national average,” said Dane Eagle, Secretary of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. “Our state now has a jobs surplus, and businesses are in need of Floridians to continue bolstering our great workforce.”

Read more here: https://floridajobs.org/news-center/DEO-Press/2021/05/21/florida-department-of-economic-opportunity-announces-twelve-consecutive-months-of-job-growth-gaining-nearly-19-000-private-sector-jobs-in-april

––––

The Republican Party of Florida has launched FloridaDems.com to defeat attempts to give Nancy Pelosi more puppets in service to a Socialist agenda for America.

RPOF’s Executive Director Helen Aguirre-Ferre issued the following statement:

“It really doesn’t matter which one of Nancy Pelosi’s Puppets Florida Democrats nominate, because each and every one will put America and Florida last as they ram through Pelosi’s dangerous socialist agenda.

“We have seen this firsthand — from being weak on China or failing to address the crisis at the border to siding with the radical left to weaken law enforcement, these Democrats will never put Floridians first.

“While Pelosi’s Puppets raise money from Woke Corporations, Big Tech and Wall Street, Florida Republicans and U.S. Senator Marco Rubio will continue to fight for Florida families by advancing common sense conservative policies.

“Senator Marco Rubio has been a champion for Florida and has been laser focused on policies that continue to improve the lives of all Floridians. The Republican Party of Florida is proud to support Senator Rubio who has shown true leadership fighting against misguided policies offered by the left.”

Visit the website here: FloridaDems.com.

More Media Myths Knocked Down

The Miami Herald published a report this week that misrepresented the Public Health Accreditation Board evaluation of the Florida Department of Health collection, analysis, and reporting of the state’s COVID-19 data.

Several reporters and commentators shared the article on social media. In doing so, they spread disinformation by twisting the facts to discredit the hard work of thousands of public servants keeping Floridians safe, healthy, and informed throughout the pandemic.

MEDIA MYTH: The Miami Herald report misled the public by falsely implying that DOH is in danger of losing its accreditation.

THE FACTS: The Herald interviewed Eric Toner, a scholar in Maryland who is not even listed as a representative of PHAB. Toner could not comment on DOH specifically since he has no direct knowledge of the situation, but he made a general statement: “If an accredited health department is told by an accreditation board that they need to do something better…the next step would be probation or losing accreditation.”

However, no official representative of PHAB gave any indication that DOH was ever in any danger of losing accreditation. In fact, PHAB president Paul Kuehnert praised the department’s COVID-19 surveillance and reporting: “Based on what we have seen with Florida, the professionals at the Department of Health are doing a really excellent job.”

These are Kuehnert’s own words, quoted in the very same Miami Herald article, but not until the 19th paragraph. The Miami Herald’s decision to “bury the lede” in this story is irresponsible at best and negligent at worst.

MEDIA MYTH: PHAB criticized DOH for “failing to maintain accurate records regarding COVID-19 infection rates in schools,” issued incomplete data, and neglected Miami-Dade and Broward schools. (Mary Ellen Klas, Miami Herald)

THE FACTS: In response to a complaint from a political activist in Broward County, PHAB conducted an exhaustive six-month investigation of DOH and found “nothing concerning about the department’s data collection or analysis.” This is a direct quote from the Miami Herald article, once again buried under paragraphs of innuendo and speculation.

Klas’ comment is a glaring example of public health disinformation given undue credibility by association with a mainstream media outlet. Klas quoted the complaint, but misattributed the quote, falsely framing it as an excerpt from the accreditation board’s evaluation of DOH. When Klas was informed of her mistake, she refused to issue a correction, instead publishing more social media commentary to push the same false narrative.

Read many more myth knockdowns: https://flgov.com/2021/05/25/public-health-accreditation-board-florida-department-of-health-doing-a-really-excellent-job-with-covid-19-data-collection-analysis/

ICYMI

Congressman Byron Donalds did a terrific job defending election integrity and conservative values in a fairly hostile interview in the New York Times. We are blessed to have a lot of strong Republicans who know who to forcefully defend the principles that made America great.

Read it here: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/22/us/politics/byron-donalds-trump.html

Social Media Highlights

REMEMBER: @FloridaGOP and retweet and share. The Republican message must be spread around the state and you are integral to making that happen.

PAID FOR BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTY OF FLORIDA. NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE’S COMMITTEE. WWW.FLORIDA.GOP

RPOF LAUNCHES FLORIDADEMS.COM

/0 Comments/in /by

RPOF LAUNCHES FLORIDADEMS.COM
Pelosi’s Puppets Fight to Advance Socialist Agenda

Today, the Republican Party of Florida (RPOF) launched FloridaDems.com highlighting how the Florida Democrats running for the U.S. Senate are dangerous liberals who would be nothing more than a rubber stamp for Nancy Pelosi’s socialist agenda.

RPOF’s Executive Director Helen Aguirre-Ferre issued the following statement:

Tallahassee, FL –“It really doesn’t matter which one of Nancy Pelosi’s Puppets Florida Democrats nominate, because each and every one will put America and Florida last as they ram through Pelosi’s dangerous socialist agenda.

“We have seen this firsthand — from being weak on China or failing to address the crisis at the border to siding with the radical left to weaken law enforcement, these Democrats will never put Floridians first.

“While Pelosi’s Puppets raise money from Woke Corporations, Big Tech and Wall Street, Florida Republicans and U.S. Senator Marco Rubio will continue to fight for Florida families by advancing common sense conservative policies.

“Senator Marco Rubio has been a champion for Florida and has been laser focused on policies that continue to improve the lives of all Floridians. The Republican Party of Florida is proud to support Senator Rubio who has shown true leadership fighting against misguided policies offered by the left.”

Visit Website

PAID FOR BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTY OF FLORIDA. NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE’S COMMITTEE. WWW.FLORIDA.GOP

The Melo Minute – May 21. 2021

/0 Comments/in /by

May 21st, 2021 – Deal or No Deal Edition
Special Session on Gambling and Gaming
This week the Legislature held a Special Session to ratify the new gaming compact negotiated between Governor Ron DeSantis and the Seminole Indian Tribe. The Legislature contemplated and approved bills relating to fantasy sports betting, mobile gambling, and more.

This new compact on gaming with the Seminole Indian Tribe is guaranteed to result in $500 million a year in tax revenue for the State of Florida over the next five years and is estimated to bring in an additional $20 billion over the next 30 years.

Since the Governor brokered the deal with the Seminole Indian Tribe he is likely to sign the bills into law soon!

COVID-19 Information

This week the CDC updated their recommendations on the use of masks. The recommendation that fully vaccinated individuals should wear masks has been dropped. Businesses may still implement their own rules.

According to FDOH’s May 17th vaccination report, Collier County had 201,030 (about 62%) of eligible individuals receive at least one dose of the vaccine. Hendry County has had 11,995 (about 40%). The State as a whole has vaccinated over half of those who are eligible.

What We’re Reading

Growing The Ag Workforce, A Classroom At A Time

SPW Staff

Florida Legislature Approves Seminole Compact by Historic Margins

Governor’s Staff

The Song of the Week!

If you have a suggestion for the next Song of the Week, let us know!
This week’s song is Kenny Rogers’s “The Gambler.” I bet you can guess why! This legislative Session has certainly raised the stakes by working out how to best serve the interests of Floridians with this gambling deal. We were certainly hit with a rough hand, but we went all in and made out with a sweet pot for all parties involved.

Fun Fact: This famous song was actually a cover. The song was written by Don Schlitz. It is about his relationship with his father — a non-gambler — and the life lessons he learned from him.

Thanking Our First Responders

Happy EMS Week! May God bless all of our first responders who put their lives on the line to save ours. Thank you for your service!

Follow my social media to know the latest happenings in our District!

Q&A’s

I have a great team here in HD80. We are always ready to help out!

If you have a question you would like for my team and I to address within The Melo Minute feel free to send an email to:
HDIST080@myfloridahouse.gov

If you’re new to The Melo Minute and would like to subscribe, click here!

Representative Lauren Melo
Florida House District 80

Press release – Byron Donald

/0 Comments/in /by

Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Pat Toomey (R-Penn) Introduce Senate Companion of Rep. Donalds’ COVID-19 Vaccine IP Protection Bill

WASHINGTON – Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Pat Toomey (R-Penn.) introduced a Senate companion of Rep. Byron Donalds’ COVID vaccine IP protection bill in the United States Senate. The Preventing Foreign Attempts to Erode Healthcare Innovation Act would prevent the Biden administration from relinquishing intellectual property (IP) protections on COVID-19 vaccines, a move that would hand over our IP to malign actors like the Chinese Communist Party and undermine American innovation.

“It deeply concerns me to hear of the Biden Administration’s plan to forgo IP protections on COVID-19 vaccines. This plan is a direct infringement upon American ingenuity and innovation and hands over our nation’s intellectual prowess for the world’s taking,” said Rep. Byron Donalds. “This Administration has made it a point to put America last, and this is just another glaring example of this sad reality. I appreciate my Senate colleagues Sen. Tim Scott and Sen. Pat Toomey, for championing my bill in the United States Senate and joining my efforts to prevent the Biden Administration from senselessly giving away America’s intellectual property to countries like China.”

The Senate companion bill was introduced yesterday by Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Pat Toomey (R-Penn.)

“The United States has already pledged more money than any other country toward global vaccine efforts,” said Senator Tim Scott. “President Biden’s willingness to cave to the World Trade Organization instead of guarding one of our most valuable assets from getting into the hands of bad actors is concerning. The president needs to draw a clear line in dealing with Beijing, and releasing our data ensures that China will benefit off the hard work and innovation of American workers, and will also ensure our next vaccine takes longer to develop.”

“The Biden Administration should protect the intellectual property of American companies, especially those that produced COVID vaccines in record time,” said Senator Toomey. “Instead, the administration is advocating foreign countries expropriate these precious American assets. Our bill would limit the administration from pursuing this misguided policy, ensuring American companies can continue their vaccine distribution efforts without fear of losing their intellectual property.”

Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Richard Burr (R-N.C.) are also cosponsors of the Preventing Foreign Attempts to Erode Healthcare Innovation Act.

Background:
The bill bars the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) from supporting the waiver of certain World Trade Organization (WTO) intellectual property protections for COVID-19 vaccines, as the Biden Administration announced it would.
The bill accomplishes this by “prohibiting the authorization of appropriations to USTR for supporting a measure at the WTO waiving certain intellectual property rights.”
###

Office Locations

WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE
523 Cannon HOB
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-2536
NAPLES DISTRICT OFFICE
3299 Tamiami Trail East
Suite 105
Naples, FL 34112
LEE COUNTY OFFICE
1039 SE 9th Ave
Suite 308
Cape Coral, FL 33990

Legislative Update – May 21, 2021 – Kathleen C. Passidomo

/0 Comments/in /by

This week, Senators and Representatives met in Tallahassee for a special session on gaming. On May 19, 2021, the Florida Legislature approved the 2021 Gambling Compact proposed by Governor DeSantis and the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The newly approved 30-year gaming Compact restores the state’s relationship with the Tribe, preserves and offers new opportunities for Florida’s legacy pari-mutuel industry, and provides substantial new revenues for the State of Florida.
Today, the Governor signed HB 7061 into law, cutting $196.3 million in taxes for Floridians and establishing three tax-free holidays this summer. The first opportunity to shop tax-free begins May 28. During the Preparedness Tax-Free Holiday, Florida residents can save when they stock up on items to prepare for hurricane season, which begins June 1.

Gaming Compact Agreement Reached Between Florida Legislature This Week
This week, Florida lawmakers met to discuss and debate the 2021 Gaming Compact and related legislation.
As a sovereign nation, the Seminole Tribe has the right to offer gambling on its properties. Through a previously established agreement, the Tribe shared revenue with the state of Florida to support education, law enforcement and infrastructure, among other investments. However, since the agreement expired in 2015, the state has not benefited from this revenue.
The 2021 Gaming Compact was negotiated by Governor Ron DeSantis and the Seminole Tribe of Florida and the State of Florida. The historic 30-year Compact restores Florida’s relationship with the Seminole Tribe, offers new opportunities for Florida’s legacy pari-mutuel industry, and provides substantial new revenues for our state. Importantly, it preserves Florida’s reputation as a family-friendly and safe world-class destination.
The goal of our legislation was to balance the requirements of federal Indian gaming law and Florida’s complex pari-mutuel regulatory structure, while also strengthening and enforcing restrictions against illegal and compulsive gambling. Responsible regulation is central to gaming, and as with other industries, such regulation should reflect current needs and current gaming violations and activities.
That is why we created an independent Gaming Control Commission to safeguard the public from illegal gaming activity and uphold the integrity of the industry.
The Compact also includes several provisions to help prevent compulsive gambling abuse, such as requiring the Seminole Tribe to make a substantial annual contribution ($250,000) per operational gaming facility to the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling.
Additionally, all advertising and marketing at tribal gaming facilities and all online betting sites must contain a responsible gaming message and a toll-free helpline number for gamblers.
The 2021 Compact will generate a minimum of $2.5 billion in new revenue for the state over the next five years and an estimated $6 billion through 2030.
On Tuesday, the Senate voted in favor to ratify the agreement. On Wednesday, the House voted to approve the measure.

Governor Signs Tax Relief Package to Help Floridians Find Cost Savings
On Friday, May 21, Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 7061 which offers a variety of tax credits and holidays for Floridians to save on costs as many begin to rebuild beyond the pandemic. The approved tax package is expected to create $196.3 million in relief for Floridians.
This includes three tax holidays for Floridians. Two of which have historically played a major role in annual cost savings: Hurricane Disaster Preparedness Tax Holiday and the Back-to-School Tax Holiday.
The Florida Legislature expanded the dates and item eligibility to help Floridians take advantage of tax-free supplies needed to secure your homes from hurricanes and prepare our students for the new school year.
The Hurricane Disaster Preparedness Holiday runs from Friday, May 28 through June 6. The Back-to-School Tax Holiday begins July 31 until August 9.
In addition, Floridians can benefit from a new tax holiday: “2021 Freedom Week.” This holiday will allow Floridians to purchase eligible event tickets, outdoor gear and beach or boating items tax-free from July 1 through July 7.
The goal is to encourage Floridians to take advantage of the recreational and entertainment opportunities here in the Sunshine State and help support local economies and businesses.

Hurricane Season Is Rapidly Approaching, Are You Prepared?
Though the Atlantic Hurricane Season officially begins on June 1, forecasters have already spotted tropical storms forming as early as mid-May.
Visit FloridaDisaster.org to help your family and/or business establish a plan to remain safe in the event of a disaster.
Utilize this checklist to help keep you organized and plan your shopping list for the upcoming Disaster Preparedness Tax Holiday.
Stay informed and view the latest updates on hurricane forecasts here.

Save On Hurricane Supplies Starting May 28 During the Disaster Preparedness Tax Holiday
The tax relief package (HB 7061) Governor DeSantis signed into law this month includes the continuation of the annual Disaster Preparedness Tax Holiday. This year, the Florida Legislature expanded the tax-free savings to 10 days, which starts on Friday, May 28, and lasts until June 6.
Eligible items include:
· Portable self-powered light source selling for $40 or less;
· Certain portable radios selling for $50 or less;
· Tarps selling for $100 or less;
· Ground anchor systems or tie-down kits selling for $100 or less;
· A gas or diesel fuel tank selling for $50 or less;
· Packages of certain battery types, selling for $50 or less;
· A nonelectric food storage cooler selling for $60 or less;
· Portable generators for use in a power outage selling for $1,000 or less;
· Reusable ice selling for $20 or less; and
· Portable power banks selling for $60 or less.
Don’t wait, get prepared today!

Memorial Day Weekend Festivities in Southwest Florida
There are a variety of Memorial Day activities your family can safely participate in this year. Enjoy time at the beach, grill out in the backyard, attend a summer event or just keep it local this long weekend.
Many of Southwest Florida’s local restaurants and shops are offering opportunities for friends and family to gather for the holiday. You may find some local resources below.
· Beach Locations & Information
· Events
· Local Shopping & Sales

Fun Florida Activities for Your Family This Summer
As families and parents prepare for school to end next month, don’t let the education end outside of the classroom!
There are a variety of activities in Southwest Florida that can help your children exercise their minds and bodies.
View the links for summer activity ideas in your region:
· Collier County
· Hendry County
· Lee County

As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office any time that I can be of assistance.
Sincerely,

Kathleen C. Passidomo
Senate Rules Chair
State Senator, District 28

Weekly Wrap-Up with Congressman Byron Donalds May 17, 2021

/0 Comments/in /by

Weekly Wrap-Up with

Congressman Byron Donalds

May 17, 2021

This past week, the House Republican Conference voted on new leadership, entrusting Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) to lead our party in working towards taking back the majority in 2022 as our Conference Chair. The Republican Party welcomes healthy debate and differing opinions, but when serving in a leadership position, it is imperative to have a leader committed to prioritizing the party’s future and not petty political infighting that distracts from talking about the issues impacting the people. So, now that we have voted for a new voice in leadership, I am ready to get back to the critical issues that our country is facing: getting Americans back to work, re-opening our schools, and strengthening our economy, and securing our border.

Americans on the East Coast suffered from a gas shortage this past week due to Russian hackers looking to dismantle our economy. While the Colonial Pipeline is currently back up and running, Americans are still feeling the financial burden at the pump. This incident is further proof that we as a nation need to strengthen our energy and fuel independence. We must not allow our adversaries to threaten and hold hostage American energy independence. The hacking and shutdown of the Colonial Pipeline is further proof of how vital the Keystone Pipeline is to the Western United States. Thousands of jobs, energy independence, and affordable access to gasoline for millions of Americans- it’s time to reverse this policy and resume construction of the Keystone XL pipeline.

Despite spending this past week in The Swamp, my staff and I engaged in multiple community events in Southwest Florida. We proudly held our first Tele-Town Hall, which provided our office a way to communicate with thousands of residents at once. We look forward to hosting more in the future as a medium to offer Congressional updates, answer your questions, and learn ways we can work to better the Southwest Florida community.

Please continue reading to learn more about important legislation in Congress, upcoming events in #FL19, and ways in which I’m working to advocate for conservative policies in D.C.!

Legislative Updates

This past week, I spoke on the House Floor, along with several of my House Republican colleagues, on the evils and dangers of cancel culture and the impact it has on our society. Click below to watch my speech:

Rep. Byron Donalds: “We must be free to speak at all times.”

In recognition of National Police Week, I’m proud to join my colleagues Representative Michael Guest (R- MS) and Representative Julia Letlow (R-LA) in Co-Sponsoring legislation that rightfully honors our nation’s fallen police officers. We must reaffirm our support to the LEO community in remembering & honoring the heroes in blue who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Read the legislation in its entirety below:

H.R. 386 – Expressing Support for Recognizing “National Police Week”

Last week, the House Committee on Oversight & Reform held a hearing detailing the tragic events that occurred on January 6th in the U.S. Capitol. As a member appointed to serve the House Committee on Oversight & Reform, I had the opportunity to ask questions to the testifying witnesses. Former United States Secretary of Defense under President Trump Christoper Miller answered my question regarding President Trump’s support of sending the National Guard to Washington D.C., prior to January 6th. Watch the exchange below:

Miller Says Trump Wanted Troops to Protect Supporters on Jan. 6th

In the 21st century, we must teach and learn from our history and swear never to repeat it, but we cannot use our past to divide us, which Critical Race Theory will undoubtedly do.

I am proud to stand with my House Republican Colleagues in supporting Representative Burgess Owens (R-UT) in this critical legislation.

National Police Week

I was proud to sign the Police Pledge, put forth by Heritage Action for America. By signing the Police Pledge, I am re-affirming my commitment and support to our nation’s police officers and will stand in opposition to any legislation or measure that intends to ‘Defund the Police’.

In recognition of National Police Week, I had the privilege of honoring our law enforcement heroes on the House Floor.

Every day police officers kiss their families goodbye to protect & serve their communities. God bless them for their sacrifice. Watch my full speech below:

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) held a memorial service at the National Police Officer Memorial site in Washington, D.C., to honor all of the LEO’s we have tragically lost.

Last year, there were 362 total deaths in the line of duty, and this year our nation has lost 124 police deaths. Each death is a tragic reminder of the selfless courage embodied by every man and woman who serves in law enforcement.

May we never forget those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

In the Media

I had the opportunity to join Laura Ingraham on her Fox News show, ‘The Ingraham Angle’ last week. In a panel alongside House Minority Whip Steve Scalise (R-LA), we discussed the newest CDC guidelines regarding mask mandates, Liz Cheney, and the continued failures of the Biden Administration. Click the link below for the full interview:

Rep. Donalds: “[americans] Don’t Want These Liberal Crazy Policies”

ICYMI: I joined Elizabeth MacDonalds on her Fox News show, ‘The Evening Edit’ to discuss the gas shortage that occurred last week on the East Coast and why President Biden needs to re-affirm and embrace our energy infrastructure and independence. Click below to watch the full interview:

FL Congressman Byron Donalds Joins The Evening Edit

I joined the Chris Salcedo Show on Newsmax last week to discuss the ignorance and intolerance I have faced from the American Left. Watch below:

Rep.Byron Donalds: on Intolerance

I was happy to sit down with Jimmy Failla for his radio show “Fox Across America” to discuss the future of the Republican Party, the impact of President Trump post-presidency, the dangers of critical race theory being taught in our schools, and so much more. Click below to listen!

Rep. Byron Donalds Joins Fox Across America with Jimmy Failla

Community Engagement

As a reminder to the veterans within Southwest Florida, on May 24th I am hosting a Veterans Town Hall. This event serves as an opportunity for veterans to receive a Congressional update, learn about available federal resources, and for my office to learn how we can best serve and assist the veteran community. For event details, click on the link to my website below:

Rep. Donalds Hosts Veteran Town Hall

This past week, I had the honor of hosting my first Military Service Academy Day. Held virtually this year, Academy Day serves as an opportunity for interested service academy candidates and parents alike to learn about the application process. I’m grateful to those on the Selection Committee, who have volunteered their time, knowledge, and expertise to ensure Southwest Florida sends the most qualified candidates to our nation’s military service academies.

Serving the hardworking men and women of Florida’s 19th Congressional District is my distinct honor and privilege. It’s time Washington works for our community’s values, and every day I will always strive to ensure your government is working for you.

Sincerely,

Byron Donalds Signature

Byron Donalds
Member of Congress