|
Governor Ron DeSantis announced the approval of a major disaster declaration for Hurricane Sally from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The declaration can be found here.
The Governor also held an evidence-based discussion of COVID-19 with Dr. Jayanta Bhattacharya, M.D./Ph.D., Stanford Medical School; Dr. Martin Kulldorff, Ph.D., Harvard Medical School; and Dr. Michael Levitt, Ph.D., Nobel Laureate, Stanford Medical School, to discuss what we’ve learned about COVID-19, the efficacy of non-pharmaceutical interventions, evidence-based approaches to K-12 schools & colleges/universities, the role of PCR testing in combatting the epidemic, and strategies to protect those most vulnerable to COVID-19. Watch the virtual roundtable here.
Yesterday, September 23rd, Governor Ron DeSantis activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge loan program to support small businesses impacted by Hurricane Sally. The application period opened today and runs through November 14, 2020, or until the available funds are expended. To learn more about this program, see here.
Earlier this week, Governor Ron DeSantis announced bold legislation to stop violent assemblies and protect law enforcement. The proposed legislation, the “Combatting Violence, Disorder and Looting and Law Enforcement Protection Act,” creates new criminal offenses and increases penalties for those who target law enforcement and participate in violent or disorderly assemblies. See the proposed legislation here.
| |
Florida Politics
Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday announced five judicial appointments to various courts across the state.
The appointments include Joshua Hawkes to the Second Circuit Court, Jennifer Swenson to the Tenth Circuit Court, Gilberto Perez to the Twentieth Circuit Court, Stefanie Morris to the Leon County Court, and Barry Dickson to the Escambia County Court....
WTSP
FLORIDA, USA — As areas impacted by Hurricane Sally work to rebuild, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is working to help small businesses in the storm's path.
Wednesday he activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan program, which provides short-term, zero-interest loans to small businesses that experienced physical damage or economic injury during Hurricane Sally....
| |
COVID-19 by the Numbers | COVID-19 Fatalities
| |
|
ICUs and Hospital Beds by the Numbers | as of 9/24/2020
| |
22.51%
% of ICU Beds Available Statewide
| |
35.09% % of Pediatric ICU Beds Available Statewide
| |
24.26% % of Available Hospital Beds Statewide
| |
Download or share any of these social media graphics below for your personal, business, or agency use.
| |
Agency for Health Care Administration
| |
Families Being Reunited with Loved Ones in Long-Term Care Facilities Despite Pandemic Alexa Lorenzo, WFTV
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. — Through glass windows and doors, there’s no way to hug and no way to hold hands. But families had to make it work for months.
That is how loved ones were visiting their friends and families at long term care facilities.
But Friday, Grand Villa at Altamonte Springs had several reunions between family members. "You are able to hug, one staff member said. “Get up and give your boy a hug!” Ron spent time with his mom one-on-one at the assisted living facility, and he can finally take care of her again. In some circumstances, the tables are turned and it’s a mother waiting to see her son...
| |
Agency for Persons with Disabilities
| |
Boca Raton Couple Finally Embrace Son After 188 Days Apart WPTV
Imagine spending six months away from a loved one who lives just a few miles away. It happened to a Boca Raton family because of the coronavirus pandemic.
A March 15 emergency order to protect against the COVID-19 pandemic prevented Jaclyn Merens and her husband, Steven Rubenstein, from visiting their son, Daniel Rubenstein, at his Boca Raton group home.
"It's been a really long time," Merens said. "I just can't wait to get my arms around him."
"It's upsetting both for not seeing him and seeing Jackie go through the loss of being with him," Steven Rubenstein added.
Daniel has autism and has seen his parents only twice since March at doctor's appointments...
| |
Department of Business and Professional Regulation
| |
How to Investigate Contractors Before Hiring Them WINK News Now is the time to know how to investigate before you even consider hiring a contractor. It’s easy, only takes a few minutes and could save you tons of cash and heartache.
First and foremost, not all home jobs are created equal. Some might only require a person to have a local license, others a state license. You can find out which by calling your county building department.
One example: Hurricane shutter work can be a local license; whereas, a roofer needs a state contracting license.
Next, make sure the business is registered on Sunbiz.org, and ask for proof that they’re insured. But don’t stop there. Call the insurance company to make sure it’s active.
To look up local lawsuits or small claims court, go to the county clerk of court website and search both the business name and its owner.
Last but not least, there are three places you should check for complaints, the Better Business Bureau, your county code enforcement or building department and the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation...
| |
Department of Children and Families
| |
Building Partnerships to Provide Better Outcomes for Florida’s Children and Families
DCF is very proud of the Local Review Team (LRT) process that Central Region community development administrators (CDAs) have established. They work hard to build and maintain partnerships across our continuum of care and ensure the process is inclusive and representative of the systems our youth are also often involved in, including the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), the Agency for Personas with Disabilities (APD), and others. The CDAs have spent a significant amount of time educating community providers and the school system on the LRT process. The collaboration has proven that when everyone comes to the table to coordinate services and engagement, there are better outcomes for Florida’s children and their families.
The success of a Circuit 10 family served through the LRT is a perfect example. The family included a 16-year-old who was diagnosed with autism, non-verbal, and was experiencing violent outbursts. This young man’s history of trauma was extensive, and his caregivers were also diagnosed with developmental delays. The family was residing in temporary housing when the Circuit 10 Children Protection Team and Heartland For Children, the community-based care lead agency in the area, stepped in to provide wraparound support. They worked to ensure the family had housing and their basic needs were being met, while the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) searched for placements for the family. The family was provided food and toiletries and a para-professional was enlisted to assist with the young man’s hygiene. Family friends even helped by picking up and dropping off laundry, and a schedule was arranged for checking in on and visiting the family to ensure stability during this transitional period.
In the end, the entire family was placed with the same APD group home provider, in two homes within 5 minutes of each other. They are doing well and visit each other frequently, allowing the family to stay connected while receiving the individual support and care they need to be safe, happy, and successful in the community.
| |
'Amazing': Florida Education Commissioner Touts Reopening of Schools WOFL
ORLANDO, Fla. - Should the way Florida reopened schools serve as a model for the rest of the country? The state's Education Commissioner thinks so.
Education Commissioner Richard Cochran made the comments on Wednesday during a state Board of Education meeting. He explained that the state's schools have yielded "a little over 2,000 per thousand people of exposure. It's an amazing stat. The school districts are doing an amazing job."
He added that of the roughly 18,000 students and faculty who have been asked to quarantine, "we're below 50 of those cases have been traced to the school itself. Which is a worldwide stat that you're not seeing."
More than half of Florida students are learning in-person....
Education Boss Says More Florida Kids are Back in the Classroom After COVID WJNO
ST. PETERSBURG -- The state Board of Education heard an update on COVID-19 in schools from Commissioner Richard Corcoran Wednesday.
Corcoran told board members that since school started, the percentage of students learning in person has increased by eight percent to well over 60 percent statewide. He says that number has grown by eight percentage points since school started.
"Maybe parents held their kids back, but when they see we're doing great cleaning, great protocols, great safety measures," they changed their minds, Corcoran said. "We expect that number to be higher by October."
Corcoran said actions by the "union bosses" at the Florida Education Association defied logic... as he told the board they urged the courts to keep in place an emergency order on school reopenings they had previously sought to strike down. "I hope the (appeals court) makes the union pay (lawyers fees to the state), " Corcoran said...
| |
Department of Environmental Protection
| |
DEP Office of Air Monitoring Successfully Completes Virtual Training
The Office of Air Monitoring (OAM) successfully conducted training on their new Air Monitoring Validation Program (AirMVP) system virtually on Sept. 10, and went live on Sept. 13. The training introduced the new system to staff around the state, highlighting innovative features and enhancements and demonstrating performance and capabilities. The AirMVP will help optimize the Division’s ambient air monitoring network by evaluating particulate matter changes, establishing a continuous audit process to increase data yield and evaluating system configuration changes. There were about 40 attendees from DEP, local programs, and contracted staff. DEP applauds this team’s continued commitment to staff development and process improvement during the challenges presented by COVID-19.
| |
Department of Economic Opportunity
| |
Gov. DeSantis Activates Emergency Loan Program for Small Businesses Damaged by Hurricane Sally Tampa Bay 10
FLORIDA, USA — As areas impacted by Hurricane Sally work to rebuild, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is working to help small businesses in the storm's path.
Wednesday he activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan program, which provides short-term, zero-interest loans to small businesses that experienced physical damage or economic injury during Hurricane Sally.
Applications can be filed starting Wednesday through Nov. 14, or until the $5 million allocated runs out.
“The intense wind, rain and flooding from Hurricane Sally has led to extensive damage in Northwest Florida,” DeSantis said. “We are working diligently to help these communities recover and I encourage affected small business owners to apply for the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan to assist them with necessary funding to rebuild.”
The goal of the loans is to help bridge the gap between the time damage is incurred and when long-term funding is secured.
"We want to do all we can to help the families, businesses, and communities affected by Hurricane Sally recover quickly and be resilient for the future,” said Dane Eagle, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. “Hurricane Sally has brought destructive coastal area flooding to Northwest Florida, and DEO will continue to work with these businesses and communities during the recovery process...."
| |
Department of Elder Affairs
| |
Governor DeSantis Proclaims September 21-25 as Falls Prevention Awareness Week
Recently, Governor Ron DeSantis issued a proclamation recognizing September 21-25, 2020 as Falls Prevention Awareness Week. Falls prevention programs can help older adults remain healthy and safe. Now more than ever, it is crucial to foster meaningful connections between seniors, their doctors, and their families. DOEA is encouraging everyone to spread the message that falling is not a part of growing older by sharing resources for Falls Prevention Awareness Week.
| |
Tallahassee, Fla. — World Alzheimer's Month is the international campaign run by Alzheimer's Disease International every September. It increases awareness about the disease and reduces the stigma and lack of information surrounding dementia.
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia. It destroys brain cells and nerves, disrupting the transmitters which carry messages in the brain, particularly those responsible for storing memories.
"It is absolutely vital that Floridians have access to both early diagnosis and support for Alzheimer's,” said Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez. "As the number of Floridians with dementia continues to grow, raising awareness of this disease helps ensure that they receive the care and access to resources they and their families need to continue living their healthiest lives.”
"Studies show that Alzheimer's disease affects more than 500,000 Floridians over the age of 65,” said State Surgeon General Dr. Scott Rivkees. "It's important to raise awareness regarding this disease as clinicians and researchers look to improve prevention measures, methods of diagnosis and treatment options and, ultimately, find a cure...."
| |
Department of The Lottery
| |
Tallahassee Woman Wins $1 million Scratch-Off Prize to Build Her Dream Home Capital Soup The Florida Lottery announces that Sandra Kassees, 53, of Tallahassee, claimed a $1 million prize from the $5,000,000 LUCK Scratch-Off game at Florida Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee. She chose to receive her winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $760,000.00.
Kassees said she plans to use her winnings to move to an area with a little more space. “After living in our house for 20 years, my husband and I are excited to finally begin building our dream home,” she shared.
Kassees purchased her winning ticket from Sunstop located at 2496 Highway 231 in Cottondale. The retailer will receive a $2,000 bonus commission for selling the winning Scratch-Off ticket....
| |
Department of Management Services
| |
Secretary Satter: Increasing Value and Reducing Costs Through New State-Term Contract for Rental Vehicles
DMS’ Division of State Purchasing has completed negotiations on a new State-Term Contract for rental vehicles with Avis Budget Group, Inc. that will become effective on Wednesday, September 30, 2020. The DMS team negotiated better pricing, retained leisure rates for state employees, and included other favorable terms for the state. Additional information is available here.
| |
Department of Transportation
| |
Florida DOT Advocates Rail Safety Initiatives TransportationToday The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has joined transportation departments across the nation in recognizing Rail Safety Week while also reminding residents to be safe on or near crossings daily.
While Sept. 21-27 serves as Rail Safety Week, Florida officials said the state is continually initiating endeavors to bolster rail safety.
“Safety is at the core of everything we do here at the department,” Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Kevin J. Thibault said. “In December, we set out to create a new standard for rail safety in the state with Operation STRIDE. In just 10 months, FDOT has made significant progress in the implementation of this initiative, which will have a substantial impact on increasing rail safety awareness and preventing tragedies on or near rail crossings statewide....”
U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao Announces $320.6 Million for Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Transportation.gov
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has selected 50 projects in 29 states to receive competitive grant funding under the Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program. The projects selected include a wide variety of railroad investments that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of freight and intercity passenger service. “This $320.6 million federal investment will upgrade U.S. rail infrastructure and enhance rail safety in communities across America,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao...
| |
Florida Small Business Wins SBA’s 2020 Exporter of the Year Award U.S. Small Business Administration WASHINGTON – Genesis Water Technologies, Inc. (GWT) has been named 2020 Small Business Exporter of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Maitland, Florida-based company will be recognized during SBA’s National Small Business Week, an annual event honoring the accomplishments and contributions of the best small businesses in the nation. This year’s National Small Business Week activities will include numerous educational panels providing retooling and innovative practices for entrepreneurs as our nation’s small businesses look to pivot and recover toward a stronger economy. Genesis Water Technologies, Inc. owner and Technical Director Nick Nicholas, along with other national winners and finalist for the National Small Business Person of the Year, will be honored in a virtual event that will be held on September 22-24. “Genesis Water Technologies, Inc. has a tremendous impact in providing access to safe drinking water around the world. They are a great example of how a small business can flourish by entering global markets. We are proud that the SBA was able to assist them as they grew into an international company,” said SBA’s Office of International Trade Associate Administrator Loretta Greene...
| |
Florida Department of Corrections
| |
FDC Takes Major Step to Improve Staffing and Create Safer Prisons Seventeen Facilities to New Shift Pattern
With the support of Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature during the last legislative session, FDC successfully transitioned seventeen state correctional institutions to 8.5-hour shifts September 18. Following the recommendations of national experts and FDC data, this new staffing pattern will improve safety conditions for both staff and inmates, promote a positive work-life balance for correctional officers, reduce staff attrition and lower vacancy rates. The extra half hour will allow for a shift briefing and improve communication and continuity of operations.
| |
Florida Department of Law Enforcement
| |
Three Arrested in Coupon Fraud Following FDLE Investigation FDLE
Following an FDLE investigation, three suspects have been arrested and charged with operating a fraudulent coupon scam resulting in the theft of more than $30,000 at drug stores throughout Central and South Florida. DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation.
One suspect, Ramona Foster, produced fraudulent digital and paper coupons that Kenya Morris and Thelma Flint used to purchase gift cards and other items at little to no cost to them. After the purchases, Morris and Flint provided half of the stolen gift cards to Foster as payment for creating the fraudulent coupons. Morris and Flint would then sell the items they purchased on social media for cash. FDLE’s Sebring Field Office began investigating after being contacted by Walgreens Loss Prevention. Morris and Flint targeted drug stores in DeSoto, Charlotte, Lee, Broward, Brevard and Volusia counties. Kenya Nakia Morris, 25, of 6323 Oleander Terrace, Rivera Beach, Florida, was arrested September 10 on charges of grand theft $20,000 or more, but less than $100,000, and conspiracy to commit grand theft $20,000 or more, but less than $100,000, and unlawful use of a two-way communications device. Morris was booked into the Palm Beach County Detention Center. Thelma Inez Flint, 26, of 3708 Wedge Wood Plaza, Riviera Beach, Florida, was arrested September 10 on charges of grand theft $20,000 or more, but less than $100,000, and conspiracy to commit grand theft $20,000 or more, but less than $100,000, and unlawful use of a two-way communications device. Flint was booked into the Palm Beach County Detention Center. Ramona Foster, 45, of 15265 North Pecan Avenue, Gardendale, Texas, was arrested September 18 on charges of grand theft $20,000 or more, but less than $100,000, and conspiracy to commit grand theft $20,000 or more, but less than $100,000, and unlawful use of a two-way communications device. Foster was booked into Ector County Jail in Texas. This case is being prosecuted by Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution in Fort Myers.
| |
Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs
| |
Florida Honors Gold Star Family Members
Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a proclamation commemorating Sept. 27, 2020 as Gold Star Family Day in Florida. Florida owes a lasting debt of gratitude to those who gave their lives in service to our nation.
The Honor and Remember Flag is flown on Gold Star Family Day in Florida to embody the respect and gratitude we have for our fallen heroes and Gold Star Families.
| |
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
| |
Find Recreational Opportunities at Florida’s Wildlife Management Areas
FWC's wildlife management areas (WMAs) have been a treasured piece of Florida's legacy since their establishment in 1941. Today, Florida has one of the largest WMA systems in the country at 6 million acres. FWC is the lead manager or landowner on 1.46 million acres and works in partnership with other governmental or private landowners on another 4.54 million acres.
This statewide network of remote and scenic lands is managed for conservation and recreation. Healthy habitats and abundant wildlife populations are the result of dedicated professionals – wildlife biologists, land managers, partners and volunteers – who work hard to ensure wildlife have the conditions needed to thrive. These public areas offer a wide range of social distancing-friendly recreation including wildlife watching, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, paddling and hunting. Hunting opportunities range from quota/limited hunts, special opportunity hunts, and public hunting areas that don’t require a permit.
To help people search for hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and shooting range facilities on our WMA system, the FWC recently launched a new online tool. Use WMA Finder to locate an outdoor opportunity near you!
| |
United Launches Innovative Online Map Search TravelPulse
United Airlines has launched a new way for travelers to see all their flight options in one place.
The airline now has Map Search, where customers can easily see, compare and shop for flights based on destination, budget and departure city on an interactive map. Travelers can also see nearby locations such as national parks, skiing and cultural destinations.
United Airlines is the first airline to introduce a tool like this feature, which is powered by Google Flight Search Technology.
"We've reinvented the way people search for flights and introduced something new for our customers that is simpler, provides better results and is easy to use," said Linda Jojo, Executive Vice President for Technology and Chief Digital Officer. "Leveraging the power of Google's Flight Search technology, we are able to provide an all-in-one solution that streamlines the search process and allows our customers to more easily find the flights that work best for them..."
| |
Volunteer Florida Announces Volunteer Leadership Convening
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Yesterday, Volunteer Florida CEO Clay Ingram announced that the agency would be hosting its first-ever volunteer leadership convening. The Volunteer Leadership Virtual Convening: Volunteer Engagement for Changing Communities will be hosted virtually October 27-29, 2020. This no-cost event will cover a broad range of topics that will engage nonprofits, governmental entities and leaders from across the state.
“I am so pleased to join CEO Ingram in announcing the Volunteer Leadership Virtual Convening, October 27-29,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “This no-cost event will bring together volunteer leaders from across the state to discuss the importance of service in our communities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you, Volunteer Florida for continuing to pave the way for service in the Sunshine State.”
“At Volunteer Florida, we are always looking for ways to engage Floridians in service,” said CEO Ingram. “Last year, we launched Volunteer Connect with the goal of connecting individuals with nonprofit organizations and governmental entities. This year, we look forward to bringing these groups together to discuss the important topics surrounding volunteerism as our communities grow and change. We look forward to our first-ever volunteer leadership convening and encourage all Floridians to register.” Click here to keep reading: https://www.volunteerflorida.org/volunteer-florida-announces-volunteer-leadership-convening/
| |
Department of Juvenile Justice
| |
Division of Emergency Management
| |
Florida Department of Citrus
| |
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
| |
Florida Housing Finance Corporation
| |
|
|
|
|