Honor with Action Coalition seeks community support on school safety

The Alyssa’s Legacy Youth in Schools Safety Alert Act, commonly called the “ALYSSA Act,” is legislation on school safety created in memory of 14-year-old Alyssa Alhadeff, one of 17 victims who perished during a mass shooting at Parkland’s Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018. The quiet city has now been added to a growing list of other memorable mass shooting sites that include Columbine, Sandy Hook, Blacksburg, Pittsburgh, Tucson, Aurora, Las Vegas, San Bernardino, Orlando, and El Paso.

Mass shootings, homicides, suicides, and accidental shootings accounted for 43,542 gun-related deaths in 2020, but gun sales remain at an all-time high. Every day, nearly 119 people die from gun violence in this country, according to Heather Chapman, a co-founder of the grassroots organization Honor with Action Coalition. The coalition was started when a group of Moms Demand Action volunteers branched off to start their own organization. “As Moms volunteers, we were limited to the legislation we could pursue, so we started Honor with Action and now have the dual focus of school safety and gun violence prevention,” said Chapman.

The group works with local organizations and also connects with leaders from larger ones to provide opportunities and resources. The coalition also connects volunteers with local and national groups and shares educational opportunities, updates, calls to action, training, and events.

The ALYSSA Act is a two-part legislative initiative that involves the installation of silent alarm systems in elementary and secondary schools and funding for school resource officers. The panic alert system can notify emergency services, staff, and students, and it provides two-way communications about specific information in a life-threatening emergency.

“Seconds save lives, and the ALYSSA Act does just that,” said Angela Weber, Honor with Action Coalition co-founder.

Alyssa’s Law was designated HB23/SB70 and passed in the 2020 legislative session. It was sponsored by Rep. Michael Gottlieb, Rep. Dan Daley, and Sen. Lauren Book. This bill is only for the state of Florida and requires mobile panic alert systems in public and charter schools. Beginning with the 2021-22 school year, school staff are required to activate the mobile panic alert system (Alyssa’s Alert) in the event of an emergency. Alyssa’s Law was signed into law in February 2019, and similar legislation is being debated in New York, Nebraska, and Arizona.

The Honor with Action Coalition was formed less than a year ago, yet it’s made excellent progress. State-level priorities for the coalition include a notification of a “threats in schools” bill, HB951/SB1284, proposed by Rep. Daley and Sen. Shevrin Jones, which provides requirements for reporting specified threats and incidents in schools. Another piece of legislature, HB7035 by Rep. Christine Hunschofsky and Rep. Chip LaMarca, is moving through the legislative session. Additional bills include SB836/HB455 by Sen. Jones and Rep. Omari Hardy to establish an urban core crime and violence task force, while HB167/SB428 sponsored by Rep. Hunschofsky and Sen. Tina Polsky focuses on safe gun storage. On the federal level, the coalition is working to help pass the ALYSSA Act for school safety alerts, Ethan’s Law for safe firearm storage, and HR8/HR1466 requiring background checks on all gun sales and a ban on assault weapons.

Chapman had a poignant message to lawmakers: “Our country has seen staggering numbers in death tolls due to a pandemic, yet I would like to remind Congress that we have an epidemic that is uniquely American — gun violence. After the attack on the Capitol in January, I would hope lawmakers now understand the fear our children face in schools across the country,” she said. “The problems of school safety and gun violence can be significantly reduced if they would pass federal legislation to turn the corner on the intolerable numbers of dead, injured, and traumatized citizens.”

U.S. Rep. Joshua Gottheimer of New Jersey will reintroduce the ALYSSA Act to a new Congress, with the co-sponsorship of Rep. Fred Upton, Rep. Elise Stefanik, and Rep. Carlos Jimenez. According to Chapman, New Jersey elected to install a hard-wired alert system but Florida decided that a mobile phone app alert system was more practical and cost-effective.

“The app is a good solution because if a student is in between classes, on a playground, or on a soccer field, he or she has access to both receiving and sending information,” said Chapman. “School districts have the option of choosing the system that works best for them and how it will be utilized.”

Formed less than a year ago, the Honor with Action Coalition has made excellent progress. Its steering committee meets regularly, and a campaign of public education and information on contacting representatives is ready to launch, but it remains on hold until the bill is formally reintroduced. “It takes a while for the process to unfold; we’re being patient but we are moving forward,” Weber emphasized. “We’ve made corrections to the text of the bill and know the committees it will be sent to. When it’s officially filed, we’ll be ready to go.”

The local coalition continues to seek the support of lawmakers in Washington, D.C., but communicating is difficult because many legislators work remotely. Where it was once possible to speak with a legislative aide or legislative director, messages are now forwarded to a voice mailbox. “This political limbo stalls the process, but it doesn’t stall our efforts,” Weber said. “Locally, the pandemic has limited the number of events we attend, but our Facebook page is updated frequently, making it easy for people to engage in our efforts and provide opportunities for calls to action.”

The Honor with Action Coalition has united with local and national groups to promote gun safety and school safety bills at both the state and federal levels. “The goal is a focus on legislative policies that promote safe firearm ownership, school safety, and support for victims of gun violence,” said Weber.

Follow the Honor with Action Coalition on Facebook and sign up for updates and calls to action at honorwithaction.com.

March 1, 2021February 22, 2021

CORAL SPRINGS COMMISSION

Exactly one year ago our lives were dramatically changed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was in March 2020 that we saw our first COVID-19 case confirmed in Florida and declared a State of Emergency for the City of Coral Springs. We quickly shifted our focus to the health, safety, and welfare of the community – especially our most vulnerable citizens. One year later our attention remains on the virus, but our efforts have shifted to the mass distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine.

We are proud to have opened a vaccine distribution site at the Coral Square Mall and implemented a mobile distribution plan to include senior living communities, homebound seniors, and underserved communities. To date we have administered about 31,000 doses. Appointments for COVID- 19 vaccination sites for seniors ages 65 and older, and frontline healthcare workers, are scheduled through the State of Florida website myvaccine.fl.gov or by calling (866) 201-6313, for TTY use (844) 252-2003.

March is Women’s History Month, and in the City of Coral Springs we are excited to celebrate women for their outstanding contributions to our city through the newly launched ‘Her Story’ campaign. We encourage residents and local businesses to nominate inspirational women who are making an impact and influencing others in our city by visiting www.coralsprings.org/herstory.

Looking for a way to serve your community and keep Coral Springs clean? Join us on March 6 for the 44th Annual Broward County Waterway Clean Up. Register online to participate, www.waterwaycleanup.org.

On March 10, the City of Coral Springs will host its third Open Play Chess Session at the Coral Springs Gymnasium from 6 to 8 p.m. Pre-registration is required for participants and spectators. For more information, please visit www.coralsprings.org/events.

We are excited to announce the launch of our city’s newly designed website. The city recognizes coralsprings.org as the digital front door to the services we provide our citizens and businesses. This digital transformation makes it convenient to access City Hall virtually 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

In addition to the newly designed website, we are proud to announce the launch of our official social media accounts! To better serve our community, we are using social media accounts as an added outlet for city business conversations and engagement with residents.

You can follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook! Mayor Scott Brook @CSCommissioner1, Vice Mayor Joshua Simmons @CSCommissioner4, Commissioner Shawn Cerra @CSCommissioner2, Commissioner Nancy Metayer @CSCommissioner3, and Commissioner Joy Carter @CSCommissioner5.

There is a change to our Commission Meeting schedule in March. The meetings will take place on Wednesday, March 3 and Monday, March 15 at 6:30 p.m. You can view our public meetings and provide public comment, visit coralsprings.org/agendas for details.

January 29, 2021January 20, 2021

Commissioner Michael Udine (3rd District, Broward County)

Broward County is on the move. Investing in the future, creating sustainable job growth, and working with leading stakeholders to create a strong economy will provide opportunity for all. In the past two months, several new companies have announced they will be moving their headquarters here to Broward County. I am excited to work in partnership with the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance to attract even more this year and will work tirelessly through all platforms to make sure everyone knows that Broward County is the place to be!

As Vice-Mayor of Broward County one of my top priorities is to encourage investment in the South Florida region by attracting top level tech and financial companies to call our community home. In collaboration with the Mayors of the City of Miami and Fort Lauderdale, I have been meeting with local officials to see how we can work together to bring investment, and good quality jobs, to our community. Creating a tech corridor with a solid foundation, led by our hometown universities like FAU and NSU, will create strong job growth for years to come.

In January I made a site visit to Port Everglades to see firsthand the dock expansion, and the brand-new gantry cranes that will service the supersized Panamax cargo vessels once the projects are complete. These new cranes, which I saw up close and in person (not for those afraid of heights), will increase our port’s economic potential. In addition, the port is working with Florida Department of Environmental Protection to protect and expand the mangrove habitats on site. This will help keep our water and wildlife healthy for future generations. I was honored to meet several District 3 residents who operate these cranes on a daily basis and learn everything that goes into doing their job for Broward County.

Over the past two months, the brand-new Motorola public safety radio system has come online in Broward County. This replacement was necessary to protect Broward County residents in the event of an emergency. From new towers, to new radios, and interoperability with neighboring counties like Palm Beach, we are focused on providing the fastest service when every second counts. I would like to thank the whole team of Broward County Emergency Management, and all stakeholders, for their steadfast support in getting this done.

It is difficult to find the words when I reflect on the three years that have gone by since the tragedy at MSD on February 14th. Our community has been forever changed by that fateful day. We miss those we have lost, continue to heal with those who are hurting, and fight for changes that will make schools safer and prioritize mental health. To all members of our community: the anniversary of this day will never get easier, but we will get through it together.

My staff and I have made staying connected with the residents of District 3 a top priority. We have been available by phone, answering questions by email, and getting out the most up-to-date and accurate information available. I can be reached as always at MUdine@ Broward.org or at my office at (954) 357-7003.

Follow me on social media @CommissionerMichaelUdine on Facebook and @MichaelUdine on Twitter or Instagram to receive important updates and see what is happening in our community. I look forward to connecting with you.

January 1, 2021December 28, 2020

Commissioner Michael Udine (3rd District, Broward County)

WELCOME 2021! Here we go, and we are off and running! We are all excited to welcome the new year and all its possibilities. From the rollout of a vaccine, to getting back to business, and eventually getting our lives back to some normalcy in 2021. Personally, I am looking forward to seeing more friends and neighbors in District 3 whenever it becomes possible. We have come through the challenges of 2020, and we are now ready to roll as Broward moves into the future.

Titans of the investment world are taking the opportunity to make the jump to South Florida. Goldman Sachs, Black Rock, and others have started making significant investments by moving departments or even potential headquarters to our neck of the woods. These moves are long term positives for Broward that will bring a variety of jobs and investments to our community. Companies, if you are listening, why wouldn’t you want to be in Broward? The sun, surf, and life with less taxing await your arrival!

Broward County is nearing completion on the switch over to the new P25 radio system that will serve our residents and visitors. The towers and radio systems, backed by Motorola, provide additional capacity, and improve our communication ability during a crisis. Feedback from first responders utilizing the system has been overwhelmingly positive. I have been a strong advocate for this critical public safety system and have worked with all stakeholders to make it a reality.

I have been in discussion with the Broward County Cultural Divisionto push for more financial support to eligible artists and non-profit organizations in District 3.

Recently, the Division has restructured its grant programs to create a more accessible, transparent, and equitable process. Grant programs support individual artists and organizations throughout Broward County. If you or your organization is interested in participating, please visit Broward. org/arts for more information, or call my office at 954-357-7003. Deadlines are approaching soon!

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is January 18th. This past year has seen many events that have made us question whether our country has made any progress towards his dream. I believe that while we have made significant changes, we still have a long way to go. We need to listen more carefully to each other and put ourselves in our neighbor’s shoes. While we honor Dr. King on January 18th, we must take the principles that he advocated for, and have them be our north star every day.

As always, I can be reached at MUdine@Broward.org or my office at (954) 357 7003.

January 1, 2021January 6, 2021

Congressman Ted Deutch (D-FL, 22nd District)

Dear Friends!

As we begin the new year and the 117th Congress, I am excited to continue working on behalf of Florida’s 22nd congressional district.

Last year, we were presented with many new challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken so much from Floridians and continues to disrupt our lives. Our communities need urgent assistance to help get them back on their feet. In Congress, I will continue to support legislation that will facilitate recovery efforts throughout South Florida.

With the COVID-19 vaccine distribution beginning across the nation, many of us are hopeful that we can return to a sense of normalcy soon. However, until the vaccine is made accessible to everyone, it is important to continue to follow CDC guidelines to ensure your safety. For recent updates on the virus, please visit CDC.gov.

One in twenty seniors in the U.S. is a target of fraud schemes, costing them at least $36.5 billion per year. Yet, the National Adult Protective Services Association has found that only 1 in 44 seniors actually report that they are victims of a fraud scheme. Recently the House passed my bill, the Seniors Fraud Prevention Act, that would help protect seniors and their families from becoming the victims of fraudulent schemes designed to steal their assets. I was proud to work with Rep. Buchanan, Rep. Peter Welch, Senator Klobuchar, and Senator Collins to introduce this legislation that would create an office within the Federal Trade Commission charged with tracking scams, educating and alerting seniors to new scams, and establishing a more effective complaint system to ensure reports of fraud are quickly addressed by the appropriate law enforcement agency.

Please continue to practice social distancing and wear a mask when in public. Stay safe and have a happy new year!

January 1, 2021December 29, 2020

MSD victim’s dad counseled by President-elect Biden

Two dates are at the center of Fred Guttenberg’s recently released Find the Helpers — Sept. 11, 2001 and Feb. 14, 2018.

The small but affecting book recounts the lives and heart-rending deaths of Guttenberg’s brother, Michael, a first-responder at Ground Zero who as a result later died of pancreatic cancer, and his daughter, Jaime, a 14-year-old student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School who was among the 17 slain in the mass shooting in Parkland, Fla.

But for Guttenberg, another date promises hope: Jan. 20, 2021 — Inauguration Day, when Joe Biden will be sworn in as the 46th President of the United States.

Biden’s election and the transition away from four years of the presidency of Donald Trump promise more than wishful thinking for Guttenberg. The 54 year-old Broward man has spoken often with Biden, who is notable among the “helpers” at the heart of Guttenberg’s book.

“For me, the Vice President has been a helper,” Guttenberg writes in the book, released in September by Mango Publishing. “He has given me the advice that I needed to go forward from the worst moment in my life, often speaking to me about mission and purpose. That advice has formed my life and my advocacy since.”

In the aftermath of the MSD shooting, Guttenberg and his wife, Jennifer, started the nonprofit Orange Ribbons for Jaime to advocate for gun safety. Guttenberg has been ubiquitous and vocal in his activism.

He has testified in U.S. Senate hearings and been invited to speak at the Democratic National Convention this past summer as well as speaking his piece at nationally televised town halls, marches and vigils, occasionally clashing publicly with Washington political figures, like Florida’s Republican senator Marco Rubio, who back de- regulating gun ownership.

Invited to attend Trump’s last State of the Union address this past February, Guttenberg was escorted out of the House chamber after standing shouting at the president, who had taken time to express his support for continued liberalized Second Amendment rights.

Biden “has an understanding of what Americans go through,” Guttenberg said in a recent interview.

Biden’s plan to address gun violence is detailed and, as Guttenberg notes, backed by a majority of Americans. Among the proposals are repealing a law that protects gun manufacturers from legal liability, banning the sale of assault rifles and high-capacity magazines paired with nationwide buy-backs, closing loopholes in background checks before gun purchases, and allowing states to implement “red flag” laws.

Biden also wants to enact legislation to support survivors of gun violence and their communities.

“He plans to treat gun violence like the public health emergency it is,” Guttenberg said. “His commitment is real.”

Guttenberg says in Find the Helpers that his life’s goal is “to break the gun lobby,” and to help elect lawmakers who support gun safety and defeat those who don’t. How his aims will dovetail with Biden’s plans, Guttenberg doesn’t yet know, but his voice is hopeful and resounding with the inspiration that suffuses his book.

“I can’t say what my role will be, but I intend to have a role,” he said.

Find the Helpers: What 9/11 and Parkland Taught Me About Recovery, Purpose, and Hope

by Fred Guttenberg

Forward by Bradley Whitford

Mango Publishing, Sept. 22, 2020

Hardcover, 198 pages (18,000 copies currently in print)

Available at Amazon (hardcover and Kindle), Target.com, Barnes & Noble
and Indiebound.org.

List price: $19.95

Notable reviews by U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell, former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, Alyssa Milano, Debra Messing, former Congressman David Jolly, and Glenn Kirschner, legal analyst and former U.S. Army prosecutor.

Find the Helpers was named among the Best Political Books of 2020 by MarieClaire.com and has been noted in newspapers across the country, including the Virginian-Pilot, Twin Cities Pioneer-Press and Columbus Dispatch, in addition to the South Florida Sun Sentinel and Miami Herald.

‘Jaime’s Law’ to be re-introduced to Florida legislature

Florida Phoenix

Legislation has been filed for next year’s session of the Florida Legislature that would close a loophole that can allow people barred from owning firearms because of criminal histories to nevertheless purchase ammunition without a background check.

The proposal (HB 25) is similar to a bill that failed during last year’s session. It’s called “Jaime’s Law,” after Jaime Guttenberg, aged 14, one of the 17 people killed in the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland.

“As a graduate of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High, nothing is more important to me than preventing another tragedy like what our community experienced from ever happening again,” bill sponsor Dan Daley, a Democrat from Coral Springs, said in written statement.

“Jaime’s Law is a huge step in the right direction towards ensuring that weapons and ammunition stay out of dangerous hands. It’s also common sense and does not restrict the rights of legal gun owners,” he said.

Bartenders are required to card people who order beers, he noted. “Why isn’t a vendor required by law to ensure that someone seeking to purchase ammunition is legally allowed to do so?”

Daley filed similar legislation last year, as did Sen. Lauren Book, also a Broward Democrat, but it failed.

Existing law requires licensed gun dealers to run background checks on buyers and to refuse purchasers who have felony convictions, histories of domestic violence, or mental illness. But the law doesn’t apply to ammo sales.

Daley’s bill would require that purchase records for law-abiding people remain confidential. It cites an existing ban on any gun registration lists. The Legislature when passing that ban declared such a list “an instrument that can be used as a means to profile innocent citizens and to harass and abuse American citizens based solely on their choice to own firearms and exercise their Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms as guaranteed under the United States Constitution.”

Following the Parkland shootings, the 2018 Legislature voted to let
some school personnel carry guns on campus and the next year to allow teachers to carry under some circumstances.

Gun reform advocate Fred Guttenberg, Jaime’s father, has endorsed the proposal.

“With approximately 400 million weapons already on the streets, we must make it harder for those who intend to kill to do so,” he said.

“Prohibited purchasers of weapons are also prohibited from buying ammunition, but there is no mechanism in place to keep that ammunition out of their hands. We must close this ammunition loophole and this bill is a step in the right direction to do it. Jaime’s Law will help save lives immediately.”

Visit www.floridaphoenix.com for more news on state politics.

December 9, 2020December 2, 2020

State Representative D-96 Christine Hunschofsky

It is an honor to serve you as your District 96 State Representative and I look forward to working with you. November was a busy election season and I would like to congratulate all the winners of the elections. I look forward to working with the City Commissions and residents in District 96, which include Coconut Creek, Parkland, a majority of Margate, and the north and east areas of Coral Springs.

Since the election, we have been very busy setting up the district office, which is located at Coconut Creek City Hall at 4800 Copans Road, Coconut Creek, FL 33063. We have a wonderful team including Beth Lerner, who is our Legislative Aide, and Lisa Librizzi, who is our District Aide. Beth has many years of experience working in the State Legislature and brings a wealth of knowledge to the position. Lisa comes from a corporate background and has a wealth of experience in systems organization and customer service. You can contact our team at 954-956-5600. Additionally, there is more information about the Florida House of Representatives, the office, and the district on the website www.myfloridahouse.gov.

In November, we worked on getting the office and staff set up, and I attended the new member orientations and organization session. In December, we will be given our committee assignments for the 2020-2022 Legislative Session and in January our first committee weeks begin. Throughout the process, we will be providing updates and information on what we are doing in the district. If you would like to receive these updates directly, please email lisa.librizzi@ myfloridahouse.gov.

As 2020 comes to a close, we have much to reflect upon. Each year comes with its challenges, and 2020 was definitely no exception. In the midst of a pandemic, we are also facing serious economic and health challenges. May we continue to focus on shared goals and work together toward common solutions to get us through these unprecedented times.

I would like to extend my best wishes to you and your family for a wonderful holiday season and great start to 2021. While many of the family celebrations may be different this year due to COVID, I hope you will all have the opportunity to spend quality time with your family whether in person or virtually. As always, please feel free to reach out to our office with any questions you may have. You can also find me providing updates on Facebook at @RepHunschofsky and Twitter at @chunschofsky. Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season and all the best for 2021!

December 2, 2020December 1, 2020

New Mayor Richard Walker thanks voters

I am humbled and honored to have been elected Mayor of Parkland. Congratulations to all of our city’s elected officials – Simeon Brier District 1, Jordan Isrow District 2, Ken Cutler District 3, and Bob Mayersohn District 4.

Thank you to all of the candidates who campaigned for a seat. It was a wonderful process as we had 10 candidates in total who offered fresh ideas and showed a tremendous passion for our City.

Local elections are sometimes overlooked for the larger races at the county, state, or national level. Local elections directly impact our everyday lives and it’s important to be engaged in the process.

Local officials directly impact our safety, property taxes, infrastructure, business, community services, and amenities. Sometimes we lose sight of the importance of our municipal elected officials, but it’s important to be knowledgeable and ask questions during the election process.

As residents, we have the unique opportunity to have direct and frequent dialogue with our local elected officials. It’s important to use those opportunities positively to become knowledgeable and off er insight.

At no other level can there be this direct impact on our everyday lives and this is why your involvement in the process is so important. There are many ways to get involved in the City of Parkland. We offer many Advisory Board positions for you to join.

You can look on the city website for more information by going to https://www.cityofparkland.org/.

I want to also take this opportunity to thank Stacy Kagan for her years of positive community service to the City of Parkland. And finally, congratulate Christine Hunschofsky on her election to the State Representative Seat 96.

We have been immensely blessed to have had Christine’s dedication, perseverance, and compassion to our great city and all of our residents. I am committed to holding this same level of standard and am grateful to Christine for setting the bar so high.

I am always available to chat and I look forward to your thoughts and insight.

My door is always open and I can be reached at Rwalker@cityofparkland.org.

Here are the elected officials: unofficial as of printing Coral Springs City

Commissioner winners:
• Nancy Metayer, Seat 3 • Joy Carter, Seat 5

Broward State attorney:
Harold F. Pryor

Sheriff:
Gregory Tony

December 2, 2020December 1, 2020

Commissioner Michael Udine (3rd District, Broward County)

2020! The good, the bad, and the ugly. Reflecting on this turbulent year, our community has shown grace and resiliency while navigating many challenges. From a pandemic to an economic crisis to an election, this has been a year like no other. I want to thank everyone in our community for helping us move forward. You are truly what makes Broward County strong, and why I am proud to call Northwest Broward home.

In November, I had the honor of being elected Vice-Mayor of Broward County by the County Commission. I am humbled to represent the residents of Broward County and District 3. In the coming year I look forward to working with all of Broward’s 31 municipalities as well as our state and federal partners. We must meet all challenges head-on through innovation, advocacy, and working together as Broward County creates opportunities for all residents. I thank you for your support and look forward to continuing to serve our great community.

Congratulations to all who have been elected or ran for public office in November. No matter if you won or lost your election you are an integral part of our democracy, and it is commendable that you sought to serve your community. I look forward to working with all our newly elected municipal, state, and federal officials as we continue working towards a bright future for Broward County.

Broward County has announced opportunities for local businesses and non profits to receive CARES Act grants through the Office of Economic and Small Business Development. This program invests in the bedrock of our local economy by providing grants through an application process. In addition, local businesses should take the initiative to get certified as it provides opportunities to work with Broward County directly on the many projects at entities like the airport, seaport, and other agencies. Check out all the great opportunities at broward.org/EconDev, and let Broward County invest in your future today.

Recently, the Broward County Sea Turtle Conservation Program wrapped up another successful nesting season. Over 2,800 nests were found on Broward County’s beaches from March to October! The conservation program has teams that work around the clock monitoring and documenting the sea turtle nests, including a “Lighting Crew” that makes sure coastal properties are using turtle-friendly lighting. Additionally, throughout the pandemic, the crews hosted free virtual hatchling releases so the public could witness the magic as well. Thank you to the dedicated crews, community partners, and volunteers that help with this important work!

This holiday season, there are many special events happening in Broward and District 3 cities. Families can also check out the annual holiday light display at Tradewinds Park! There are countless service opportunities available throughout our community as well. You can donate toys, time, food, or funds to charities like Family Central, Feeding South Florida, and Toys for Tots that distribute to families in need. Together, we can make sure that the light shines bright for all this holiday season.

Finally, the Udine family and I wish you and yours a happy holiday season and a healthy and prosperous New Year. My staff and I have made staying connected with the residents of District 3 a top priority. We have been available by phone, answering questions by email, and getting out the most up to date and accurate information available. As always, I can be reached at MUdine@Broward. org or my office at (954) 357-7003. Follow me on social media @CommissionerMichaelUdine on Facebook and @MichaelUdine on Twitter or Instagram to receive important updates and see what is happening in our community. I look forward to connecting with you.

November 1, 2020October 22, 2020

Commissioner Michael Udine (3rd District, Broward County)

As we march into November and the upcoming holiday season, our cities are getting creative. Now is a great time to check out events like drive-in movie nights, a hike at one of our parks on a nature trail, or a local farmers market. These activities allow us to be safe while enjoying life, and we should all take advantage of opportunities to relax, even if it is just for an hour or two.

November 3rd is a big day for our community and country. As your County Commissioner, I serve as a member of the Broward County Canvassing Board. The Canvassing Board’s mission is to oversee a transparent, safe, and unbiased election to make sure everyone’s vote is counted. Through investing in the Supervisor of Elections Office, Broward County is committed to ensuring that your vote is counted whether you vote by mail, early, or on Election Day! Thank you to everyone who has played a role, from the volunteers, poll workers, and Supervisor of Elections staff. Your contributions make sure democracy is alive and well.

In October, Broward County partnered with the Florida Panthers to expand the Kauffman Entrepreneurship Development Program. The 10-week program offered by Broward County has graduated almost 100 entrepreneurs and provides workshops for the public. Participants are mentored on the real world aspects of starting a business, the tools needed to succeed, and how to access capital to grow. This expanded partnership with the Panthers will provide additional financial resources to the program so more residents can pursue their dreams and keep Broward businesses growing.

The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport will be holding its triennial airport safety training drill in November. The drill is mandated by the FAA to test the airport’s emergency preparedness and response. In this exercise, airport volunteers will act out scenarios as passengers, airport personnel, and security. This will allow the emergency operations staff to understand how we can improve security. This drill will happen after the airport winds down for the evening and will not affect operations. Thank you to all the airport personnel and staff for giving your time to protect the traveling public!

Last month Broward County funded a program match for Swim Central. Drowning is one of the leading causes of death of children in the nation. Swim Central is vital to prevent this from happening by allowing kids to work with instructors on the fundamentals of swimming and water safety. For more information on how to sign up or participate, please visit Broward.org/parks or call 954-357-7946.

On November 11th, we will observe Veterans Day. Cities across District 3 will be hosting ceremonies that honor our Veterans’ courage, sacrifice, and heroism. Our hometown heroes continue to serve long after leaving active duty service in a variety of missions that support causes throughout our community. Thank you for your service.

I can be reached as always at MUdine@Broward.org or (954) 357-7003. Follow me on social media @CommissionerMichaelUdine on Facebook and @MichaelUdine on Twitter or Instagram to receive important updates and see what is happening in our community. I look forward to connecting with you.

October 2, 2020September 24, 2020

Commissioner Michael Udine (3rd District, Broward County)

The month of October means elections have begun throughout Broward County. The Broward County Supervisor of Elections Office is working diligently to ensure safe, efficient, and transparent elections.

Remember that if you plan to vote by mail, request your ballot as soon as possible and return it via mail prior to election day, or at a designated drop box location. Additionally, these are the key dates to remember:

Deadline to register to vote is October 5
Early Voting will take place October 19 through November 1
Election Day is November 3

Be sure to check https://Browardsoe.org or call (954) 357-7050 for more information on registering to vote, polling locations, or to find an early voting site near you!

Students are back in school and we are working towards everyone returning to campus safely. No matter what the case, we must make sure that all precautions are taken. Throughout all this, our teachers, administrators, and parents have been the backbone of the process and will continue to be on the frontline. Making necessary adjustments has not been easy for anyone, especially our kids, and everyone is going the extra mile to make sure students are put in the best possible position to learn. We all cannot wait to get our children back with their friends and teachers at school so they can enjoy being kids in a safe learning environment.

In addition, Broward County Libraries continue to be open virtually throughout this time as a resource to kids and adults alike. When you visit https://Broward.org/library, all you need is a library card to access resources such as eBooks, movies, online classes, and more, just like you would at your local library. Be on the lookout for special virtual events that the library will be hosting during October. The Broward Library is truly a gateway to the world and will open new possibilities for learning.

Broward County recently agreed to work with the Army Corps of Engineers for additional beach re-nourishment. The federal government through the Army Corps will fund the project completely at no cost to Broward County taxpayers! This will augment the current program that protects our county’s treasured beaches. With the Corps bringing in sand to return certain beach zones to pre-Hurricane Irma levels, we will not only save the county money now, but also later. Maintaining our beaches will ensure that they remain pristine for residents and visitors to enjoy, and combats the environmental impacts from beach erosion.

Finally, Halloween festivities will look a bit different this year. Traditional trick-or-treating and big parties may not be possible; however, we should not miss this opportunity to have a little fun. So put on your favorite costume, carve a jack-o-lantern, and get creative with the decorations while we stay safe and healthy.

My staff and I have made staying connected with the residents of District 3 a top priority. We are available by phone and email while we work on getting out the most up to date and accurate information. As always, I can be reached at MUdine@Broward.org or my office at (954) 357-7003. Follow me on social media @CommissionerMichaelUdine on Facebook and @MichaelUdine on Twitter or Instagram to receive important updates and see what is happening in our community. I look forward to connecting with you.

September 29, 2020September 18, 2020

Parkland Mayor Candidates Q&A 2020

To further assist our readers in making educated decisions when voting in November, we have sent a list of questions to each candidate running for the Mayor of Parkland, FL.

Stacy Kagan

1. What is your full name and what position are you running for?

Stacy Joi Kagan, Mayor of Parkland

2. Where are you originally from?

Originally from Queens, NY, and moved back and forth from Kendall, FL, to Queens, NY.

-Why did you choose to move to this city/county/school district/state district? How long have you been here?

I have wanted to live in Parkland from the first time I drove into the community. We have lived in Parkland for over 16 years and our daughter Brittani is a graduate of MSD. We are residents of Heron Bay, The Greens. Parkland was just what we wanted for our family with beautiful communities, A-rated schools–a quiet gem in Broward County. I have also worked in the Parkland area for about 25.

My childhood was difficult, and I wanted a community for my family that I dreamed of. My personal unwavering commitment to give back comes from my past and my goal was for all children to have the opportunity and a role model to know things can and will change. It takes drive, commitment, and passion. I started working at age 12 after my father passed away unexpectedly of a heart attack. Faced with financial difficulties, and not always having a place to live, it made me strong. Overcoming these challenges is what allowed me to develop the strength, tenacity, and compassion that I have today for people of all ages.

3. Why are you running for this position?

I have been serving Parkland as Commissioner for three terms, just short of 8 years and I am incredibly proud that my community has kept me in my seat. I was voted by my peers to be Vice Mayor two years in a row. I’m actually taking a bit of a leap of faith in giving up my Commission seat in order to run for Mayor. This is how passionate I am about my work to serve Parkland residents. There’s so much good that I want to continue to do in this role.

Being on the Commission for almost 8 years tells me that the residents are happy with my service to the people of Parkland. I work and serve the residents. I do not work for the city, I work for the people. During my term, I am proud of my voting record.

I look at the future of Parkland from many different views and I take this position extremely seriously, as it is the Mayor and Commission’s role to create the vision, and the City Manager and staff to implement it. Having strong relationships with the community and related services, Broward County Schools, an understanding of how to work with others, and find solutions to exceed the needs of the people is what I have done and will continue to do as Mayor.

I have always been a working Mom and raised my family here for a reason and I am proud of my daughter who also has served in her heart. One of my proudest moments as a parent was my daughter returning home to Parkland to help the students just days after the tragic shooting. Brittani brought light to our community during our darkest times, the tragic shooting at MSD. Her
high school was such a big part of her life and continues to be. Her compassion and strength for the families, kids, and teachers reached so many.

Owning multiple businesses, dealing with budgets, managing people, consulting, crisis management, working with children, being a former preschool teacher, owning a music school, and working with many diverse and unique people have given me the tools I need to protect, and guide, Parkland’s future in the best possible direction. I will enhance community involvement and engagement. I will lead with compassion, teamwork, and an open line of
communication with the residents.

-Have you run in the past?

Yes, I am currently a Commissioner in Parkland District 1 since 2013 and Vice Mayor for 2 years in a row, voted on by the Commission.

4. If elected, what is your first point of action? Why?

There are so many things to get started on and everything is fluid as things change in our city, county, state, county, and globally. I will continue to focus on safety and protecting public health, optimizing Parkland’s city budget (working on that now). We are prepared for a potential active 2020 hurricane season while safeguarding Parkland’s unique character and exceptional quality of life. Restarting our business community here in Parkland and helping Parkland business owners that work outside of our community is important. We need to work together and my many years of networking, building relationships, being a mentor and a business owner will help our community to strive.

I will continue with all that is Parkland and use my experience to expand on what is needed, make certain that my new Commissioners have a strong understanding of the new role and commitment. Having worked with Mayors Hunchofsky and Udine, I offer a great deal of knowledge and experience to our relatively new Commission.

It will be a seamless transition as we have an outstanding Mayor and I will meet with Mayor Hunschofsky, the City Manager, and City attorney to immediately continue what we started and then get to work on with the new Commission and bring new ideas forward.

Creating new boards, community involvement, and open discussions, office hours for residents to meet with me and encourage our new Commission to do the same. May be virtual or in-person or at a park. Those that know me to understand how I communicate. Listening is key and then when you have all of the information you need run with it, boots on the ground! We are all one vote and that is why Resident and Commission communication is key for the future of Parkland. I am here for the good times and the bad times and the unexpected.

5. What mission do you feel most passionate about? Why?

Bringing our community together. There seems to be an invisible line between the east and west side of town. We are “One Parkland’ and we should be working together not dividing. When I meet with the people of Parkland there are so many things they all want and have in common. There are times when the path we choose may be different, however, the end goal seems the same.

Help our community and businesses rebound from the effects of Covid-19 and work together safely with physical distance while being social. Healing and growing together.
Keeping our children and adults safe in the fields, in our parks, and in our community.
Keeping city services, programs, and our schools top-rated.
Protecting our property values.
Protecting the character and the hometown’s special vibe of Parkland.
Working with the families and community for a permanent memorial to help the healing process from the MSD tragedy. We will always remember and honor.

6. Where do you feel our city needs improvement? Why?

There is always room for improvement in whatever you do. Personally, I strive every day to improve and I believe the city staff does as well. If I had to pick one area, I would say communication and community involvement. We have so many active residents that truly care about Parkland and its future and have new and different ideas. We need to have more opportunities for them to be heard. It is also important for all areas of Parkland to see another’s point of view and understand that when the Commission votes, we need to look at all the moving parts. The decisions we make are not easy and often there are people that are extremely upset. Although I would like to be able to agree with everyone’s point of view, that is not possible and there are times that things go the way I would like and others they do not. That is democracy! I believe in working towards solving an issue, problem, or concern and listening to come up with the best possible outcome.

There will be many issues before us. I have every confidence that when we work together as a community—from parks to roads, to development, fiscal planning, safety, business development, schools, long-term strategic planning, community spirit, and well being—so much good can be done. This has been my strategy and promises from my first day in office as Commissioner. I am
extremely satisfied to watch new residents choosing Parkland as their home and everything our Commission has archived to keep our community beautiful.

7. Where do you feel our city stands above the rest? Why?

Parkland is an exquisite gem. It is a place that is our home, community, and offers a lifestyle for all from small children to the young at heart. Parkland has top-notch communities, beautiful parks that offer unique amenities, an award-winning library, dog park, P-Rec Center, houses of worship, bike paths, located next to a magnificent part of nature, the Everglades. In the middle of my term, we had several issues relating to school overcrowding, which Broward County Public Schools governs. The Mayor at the time, Michael Udine, and our Commission fought for Parkland children to stay in schools located in Parkland. This is not common. We worked diligently with the school board when they wanted to bus children out of Parkland. We added additional classroom space at Riverglades, Pine Trails, and Heron Heights working with Broward County Public Schools, city staff, and developers. We offer free SAT and ACT tutoring for MSD students at our Library and I worked with MSD students involved in the National Honor Society to develop a tutoring program that is student to student. The people of Parkland make our city stand above the rest!

8. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process in our town?

Communication is crucial now more than ever. I am not waiting until day one, I have already started my plan and with every opportunity, I talk with the residents about how they feel and get their input on why Parkland, what they like and dislike, and what they would like to see going forward. It is so important to recognize that it is our home and everyone has a voice in moving the community forward. I have also shared my vision with our City Manager about creating more volunteer opportunities and focus groups. This is key to knowing the true pulse of the city. It is my goal to listen to the people of Parkland and share that with the commission and encourage them to do the same. We need to be sensitive to what is going on in the world, our community, and make certain no resident is left behind. Our population is changing and we
need to address the needs of all of Parkland and want to create opportunities for our children to our seniors. I believe we all want the same thing and together sharing ideas and vision will lead us in the best possible direction for the future of our already outstanding place to live and work.

9. If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.) how would you evaluate whether that project was worth implementing?

I will always meet with anyone that involves Parkland. That is part of what I do now and what I will continue to do. There are many steps in any form of development and processes that municipalities have to follow regardless of what type of proposal or development and needs in our community. As elected officials either Mayor or Commissioner, we are policymakers and the staff runs with the details. It also depends on many complex issues and how they can be resolved. This is actually a very complex question with many steps prior to anything moving forward. Always starting with a discussion and meeting is step one.

10. What neighborhood do you live in?

I live in The Greens of Heron Bay with my husband Richard of 35 years and our dog Ziggy and cat Tiggy.

-Why?

This is an interesting story… When we moved to Parkland we only had two weeks to find a home and move. Our house in Weston sold quickly and we had to be out in less than a month. We were not even considering Heron Bay, and it is crazy to even think about it. Every home we bid on we lost to buyers who offered more money. The market was crazy and my family had very specific things we wanted. My husband wanted a big yard, pool with a lake and trees, and my daughter wanted a bedroom with a walk-in closet, bathroom, and room for a couch. All I wanted was to pick up my house in Weston and move it to Parkland. When my Realtor called about our house, my husband did not even want to look at it. He was done looking, so Britt and I went to look at the house we now call home. It was close to meeting our needs and we needed a place to live. The view was spectacular on the golf course, the bedrooms were big,
and it was empty and needed a family. We all compromised and it became our home. We put in a pool two years later and it turned out to be the perfect place for the Kagan Family!

11. Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?

Now is a very unusual time and the way I do things now is very different than would be without a pandemic. Meeting and talking with the people of Parkland in our communities and at our events, supporting all of the residents of our community in any way possible, which has been an extremely new experience with COVID. I do much more facetime, zoom, and physically distance talks and walks so I can connect with our community.

I love everything in Parkland and I do have a few personal favorite things. I love driving down Holmberg and Trails end with the top down on my car. I love driving by Hendricks Farm and Parkland Golf and smelling the peppers, it’s like being in the country. Taking walks all over town with Richard, my husband, and Ziggy, our puppy is wonderful and I get to meet and talk with neighbors that are out safely as well as the dog park and walking with friends physically distancing around town and in our parks. Spending time at Carmella’s and meeting friends and neighbors while physically distancing and getting fresh air and grabbing take out from our incredible restaurants.

I would be remiss if I did not share how much our community activities mean to me, not for me for our families of Parkland. When I see smiling faces at the Drive-in Movie, on the fields, events like Snowfest, (my personal favorite), Egg Hunt, Farmers Market, the school events, Parkland Dash, all of our incredible charity events, activities at our P-rec, visiting with residents at their clubhouses, an MSD football game, a drama production at MSD, a baseball game, watching the band play, our homecoming parade, police and fire meet and greets, reading to the kids at the library, and watching a Parkland sunset at the Levee or even my own backyard. I can go on and on….

Parkland is a special place for all ages and there is so much to do even now! I was so pleased when my plan for the drive-in movie was approved. I really wanted to get creative with the Commission and city staff and find a way to bring everyone together safely. I look forward to more of that as Mayor.

To learn more or get involved in my campaign: visit StacyKaganforParkland.com or email StacyKaganforMayor@gmail.com, or call 954-288-5261.

Best to all,

Stacy

Rich Walker

1. What is your full name?

Richard Walker

2. Where are you originally from?

I am originally from New Jersey

-Why did you choose to move to Coral Springs/Parkland?

I chose Parkland because of the schools and the community.

-How long have you been here?

I have lived in Parkland for 7 years.

3. Why are you running for this position?

I am running for Mayor because I bring a unique perspective to the dais. My wife and I have 5 children ranging from ages 6-16 at each level of the school system. We are an active family in schools, Parks and Recreation, and throughout the community. I am engaged and I am always accessible for our residents. My business background gives me the knowledge and know-how to identify problems and always look for a solution.

– Have you run in the past?

I am currently a Commissioner in District 2

4. If elected, what is your first point of action?

Obviously to continue to ensure our residents are safe is #1, but I want to make sure our businesses have the support they need from us as a City to be
successful.

-Why?

During this COVID time, our businesses have had a difficult time. Our businesses are great partners for our City. They sponsor events and sports leagues. They also give our residents additional opportunities to see one another around town.

5. What mission do you feel most passionate about?

I believe our Parks are very important. Parkland is a family-based community and we have to be forward-thinking as we continue to grow our infrastructure.

-Why?

To have a successful and wonderful City we need to make sure we are meeting the needs and level of service our residents deserve. Proper planning is essential. Having my business background is exactly how I think. I am results-oriented and forward-thinking. The decisions you make today can impact tomorrow in both good and bad ways, so it’s imperative to not be impulsive in that decision making.

6. Where do you feel our city needs improvement?

Our City is behind in terms of our infrastructure. We have grown so much over the last 5 years and we are playing a bit of catch up to this growth.

– Why?

The government is not overly fast and nimble, so it’s so important to make quick and decisive decisions. We cannot keep up with the level of service our residents need if we are making reactionary decisions. We need to be proactive. My engagement daily within the community gives me this insight. I am with you at the Parks, Schools, Community Events, and businesses daily.

7. Where do you feel our city stands above the rest?

Our community is resilient. We have been through so much and every time we get back up and move forward stronger than ever.

-Why?

We are a close-knit community, so we are always there for one another. We have so many opportunities during the year to see each other whether it’s the Farmer’s market, Eats and Beats, or any of our other wonderful events.

8. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process in our town?

Communication and engagement are vital to the success of any entity. I have always made a point to engage with our residents whether it’s at the schools, parks, community events, or our local businesses. I am always open and available, and I will continue that throughout my service.

9. If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.) how would you evaluate whether that project was worth implementing?

I would listen to their plan regardless of my initial thought. It’s so important to listen to everyone with an open mind. I will always listen and try to find the value in any discussion or idea. This is how you grow as a person and this is how we can grow as a community.

10. What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?

I live in Parkland Isles. I love our community. I have been to so many other wonderful communities in Parkland and they all have their own unique feel. It’s wonderful. My favorite thing to do is ride my bike throughout our City. I will ride my bike several times a week and it’s great to be able to ride around town and see the differences within each community. This is one of the things that makes Parkland so special.

Rich