South Florida 100 Forum July 17

Anthony Abbate, Florida Atlantic University, Associate Provost, Broward

Last week: As our leaders are caught up in a blame-game and finger pointing, the fact remains that the “guacamole-thick” algae bloom on Florida’s beaches is inexcusable. What ever happened to the proposed land purchase for storing water with funding overwhelmingly approved (by 75%) of Florida voters – known as Amendment 1 – in 2014? The damage has only begun to take its toll, not only on our tourism industry, but to human health and the health of the region’s wildlife. Sadly such a gap between public mandate and legislative action only contributes to the unfortunate perception of bad faith.

Looking ahead: The sensational arrival on July 4th of the Juno spacecraft into planet Jupiter’s orbit is truly remarkable and in the weeks ahead we will begin to see images streaming from that mysterious and distant planet. It took the NASA vehicle five years traveling at 150,000 mph to reach its destination. That alone might cause us to reflect on the scales of time and distance in our solar system as scientists uncover new knowledge. It elicits pride in American ingenuity, our capacity to get things done. and our ability to progress toward greater understanding and discovery of new knowledge.

Mitchell W. Berger, founder and co-chair, Berger Singerman

Last week: I am a member of the Democratic platform committee and had some involvement in the energy and environment plank. I have watched my party evolve from an “all of the above energy policy” party to a party whose position is one of energy and infrastructure being supportive of new technology jobs and environmental and climate policy. Wind ,solar , and when necessary and safe and regulated-natural gas, has replaced coal, gasoline , nuclear and unregulated fracking as the policy of our party. This is a remarkable transformation from the past . It is now up to us to embrace the future.

Looking ahead: Its the Republican Convention. Who will be nominated? Who will be nominated for Vice President? Will the Republican Party unite behind the ticket ?

Claudette Bruck, commissioner, Coral Springs

Last week: Stop, stop, stop! Don’t we know that when he said “Love one another as I have loved you” he meant LOVE ONE ANOTHER. How in the world do we expect to ever have peace in faraway places if we cannot create peace in our own homes and communities. Of course every life matters, why would anyone think otherwise. If each of us makes a conscious decision to love the person we are facing, in a healthy and respectful way, things will begin to change. And, by the way, our Police and all first responders must be protected and respected.

Looking ahead: How are we going to protect our first responders and keep peace on the streets at the same time?

Walter G. “Skip” Campbell, Jr., mayor, Coral Springs; former member, Florida Senate

Last week: Wouldn’t it be great if we had a time machine to go back in history to change things or just have a good old redo. It seems the presidential race of 2016 would be a great event to redo. Maybe the Jeb Bush I knew would re-emerge, with the charismatic personality, to talk about policy. Maybe Joe Biden would be in the hunt for the most important position in the United States. Now all we have is a candidate who is concerned about only him and a candidate who wants to make history. Scientists get working on that machine.

Daniel Cane, President and CEO, Modernizing Medicine

Last week: The most poignant story of the week is growing racial divide and ever increasing tension with law enforcement. Clearly, there’s a rift in the fabric of our country that needs to be addressed. Other countries are now giving travel advisories and telling their citizens to be careful when traveling to the United States. Diversity helped build this country into something great. It’s in moments like these where we are given an opportunity to reflect, change, and then heal as a nation.

Looking ahead: From a health IT perspective, a recent study indicated that poor EHR design and limited usability were caused in part by communication gaps between EHR vendors and providers – in this case pediatricians. These results aren’t surprising. Each specialty has a unique workflow and required medical knowledge. One size doesn’t fit all, and doctors and their practice administrators don’t have the time – or quite honestly most of the knowledge- required to build EHR systems for their practices. That’s the vendor’s job. Whether it’s pediatricians, dermatologists, orthopedic surgeons or any other medical specialty, it behooves them to purchase software that was built specifically for their specialty by physicians in their specialty.

Kathleen Cannon, president, United Way of Broward County

Last week: I know I am not alone as I attempt to come to grips with the current state of our country. As a nation, we need to attack the root cause of the violence, racism, inequality, cultural and political divides and too often leaders and institutions that divide us. Now, more than ever, we must live united. United in love and united in respect. “Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding a deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only love can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

Joy Cooper, mayor, Hallandale Beach

Last week: It has been over 40 years since the Clean Water Act was adopted. For over 40 years, agricultural uses have been exempt from these rules. They are using best practices but are not required too. As Co-Chair of the US Conference of Mayors Water I can share our state is not the only state having these issues. We all need to work with EPA on affordable water, waste water and storm water treatment processes in partnership with our federal government. There should not be any industry that gets a pass. Cheap food production should not trump clean water

Looking ahead: After looking at recent polls in the close race for the white house I found it interesting that Trumps leads are in the male, white, no college, and over 60 categories compared to Clinton’s lead with women, college graduates, African American, Latino’s, under 30, and those making under $45,000. Clinton leads NE and West. Trumps ties in the Midwest and leads in the south. This decision is for our great country. We have come a long way from the 19th and 20th centuries. I pray all the changes we have worked for are not lost because people do not vote!

Dan Daley, Vice Mayor, Coral Springs

Last week: This week cities and towns across the United States joined together in hopes of spreading peace and unity in the wake of what happened in Minneapolis, Baton Rouge, and Dallas. Those events are absolutely tragic, and would divide any great nation, but we must stand firm in our belief that through peace, love, and unity, we can overcome some of our darkest hours. Whether it was a peace march with Snoop-Dogg and the LAPD in Los Angeles, or a silent Peace Walk for Unity in Coral Springs, now is the time to come together and love your neighbor and fellow man.

Pastor D.H. Dawkins Sr., Praise Tabernacle International

Last week: Changing gun laws won’t help to fix the misuse of authority by many law enforcers as seen by the recent unecessary deaths caused by police officers. If they represent the law, how can gun laws affect change when the law is carrying the gun? How about bringing back the tasers?

Michael De Lucca, president, Broward Regional Health Planning Council, Inc.

Last week: Last week, we bid farewell to Dwayne Wade, one of the greatest Miami Heat players. After 13 seasons with the Heat and 12-time All-Star, he is joining the Chicago Bulls in his hometown. Wade has the utmost respect and admiration for Heat president, Pat Riley, who drafted him from Marquette in 2003 and coached him through 2006 for Wade’s first of three Championship titles with the Heat. Wade says he will “always be a Heat”. Dwayne Wade will be missed in South Florida and we wish him well. Thanks for the memories!

Looking ahead: Here comes the sun! Apply sunscreen, seek the shade and avoid tanning beds. Many skin cancers are caused by excess exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or other sources. Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common cancer in the nation. Warning: The incidence of melanoma skin cancer has steadily increased in Florida over the past decade. Make sure to stay hydrated as well!

Dr. Michael Dennis, chairman, Florida Atlantic University Schmidt College of Medicine

Last week: One in five teenagers in America is grossly obese. Many more are significantly overweight. This epidemic has dangerous consequences for their health as they mature – especially for heart failure in early middle age. A Swedish study from the Sahlgrenska Academy in Gothenburg released this week followed the life patterns of 1.6 million citizens and found that a high body mass index (height times weight) increased the risk of heart disease by ten times normal. Add in the expected incidence of Type 2 diabetes in that population and you have an enormous hazard. Families, educational facilities, and community organizations need to address this issue through better diet and exercise.

Looking ahead: For the Clintons, James Comey is a good man to have around. As current FBI Director he provided a review of Hillary’s emails as extremely careless and prone to enemy hacking but suggested no prosecution despite dissent from legal minds in both parties. As Deputy Special Counsel in the Whitewater investigation he recommended no punishment for Arkansas Governor Clinton who pushed through illegal loans for a Clinton business partner. Comey condoned President Clinton’s shocking pardon of billionaire Marc Rich who traded illegally with America’s enemies despite knowing he suspiciously gave $450,000 to the Clinton library. Oversight is meant to imply honest evaluation – not ignoring malfeasance.

Ted Deutch, member, U.S. House of Representatives

Last week: This week, I sat with Jerry Wright’s family one month after he was shot and killed at Pulse nightclub. They have spent the past month crying, questioning, and disbelieving. Over those same four weeks, House leadership repeatedly blocked gun violence legislation supported by over 80 percent of Americans, including gun owners. Shockingly, the Speaker scheduled a hearing on anti-LGBT legislation on the anniversary of the worst attack on the LGBT community in decades. The Wrights know that they have lost Jerry forever, but they are working to make our communities safer for other American families. Congress must join them.

Looking ahead: Thousands of families in Brazil are trying to meet the needs of babies born with microcephaly caused by Zika virus. These children will experience challenges related to incomplete brain development throughout their lives. What will we tell American parents when they are facing the same challenges? That we did all we could? That we followed recommendations from scientists and infectious disease experts? That we are prepared to fund the health care and supportive services needed to help these children? Congress should not break until we have acted to prevent the spread of Zika.

Andrew Duffell, president, Research Park at Florida Atlantic University

Last week: If you haven’t heard about Brexit – look it up because it is sizing up to be one of the biggest events in economic terms in many years. The United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union, confounding conventional wisdom and sowing uncertainty into financial and other markets. Over the long term the British economy will be strong and grow but in the short and medium term a lot of changes will be coming that will keep markets jittery.

Looking ahead: Florida’s economy is on track to exceed $1 trillion in 2018, growing faster than the rest of the country over the next few years. This is good news coupled with the fact that income is growing faster here than other places in the U.S. To make sure we sustain this growth, we must have a solid and constantly improving education system; a life science executive told me this week he would never have moved to Florida if it weren’t for educational assets like the Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach.

Bernie Fernandez Jr., M.D., CEO, Baptist Health Medical Group

Last week: Medical science recently took an important step in treating the leading cause of death in the U.S. Each year, nearly 370,000 Americans die from coronary artery disease. In early July, the FDA approved a stent designed to gradually dissolve in the body, similar to absorbable sutures. The implant addresses safety concerns with metal stents used to treat clogged arteries. Long-term safety results aren’t expected until 2020, but the device is already being used in Europe and Asia. And with more than a dozen medical device manufacturers working on dissolving stent technologies, the U.S. won’t be far behind.

Howard Finkelstein, chief public defender, Broward County

Last week: The Broward Sheriff’s Office announced last week that it will stop conducting DNA testing after a recent finding by its accrediting board that the lab was using outdated and scientifically unreliable protocols. Jurys give tremendous weight to DNA evidence and have wrongfully convicted people based on the crime lab’s mistakes. So far, the state has not reacted to the suspension of DNA testing or the accrediting board’s report. The State Attorney must review all convictions obtained using faulty DNA evidence and ask the courts to overturn those convictions. Unless the state takes immediate action, we cannot trust our criminal justice system.

Sean Guerin, CEO, Fort Lauderdale Strikers

Last week: The deepening racial fault line on police behavior continues to be the story. While two recent police shootings were tragic and painful to watch we must look at the facts and not the inflammatory rhetoric of those who wish to see chaos and anarchy in the streets. Black and white leaders need to address the problem not demonize the “Thin Blue Line” that allows our society to exist. There were 2,100 shootings in Chicago last year and only nine involving the police is but one example of where the real problem is festering. We face a long, hot summer if these false narratives promoted by race haters and baiters are given traction.

Looking ahead: All eyes will be on Cleveland this week for the GOP Convention. With Trump’s VP selection and possible key cabinet positions, there will be much fodder in the coming weeks after this upcoming convention. With the Donald’s numbers leap frogging Hillary in our very own State of Florida, his performance at the convention could keep him competitive and propel his momentum into the remaining four months of his campaign. Unfortunately, the big stories emanating from Cleveland may revolve around protests and further violence surrounding the Quicken Loans Arena.

Rabbi Sheldon Harr, Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El

Last week: This past Tuesday there was a memorable memorial service in Dallas, paying tribute to the five police officers who were mowed down by a deranged assailant. Of course the five vacant chairs, each adorned by an American flag and the officer’s hat were poignant reminders of that tragedy. Importantly, however, was the final rendition of the Battle Hymn of the Republic, when President and Mrs. Obama, President and Mrs. Bush, Vice-President and Dr. Biden, along with the Dallas Police Chief Brown and other important community leaders held hands together and prayerfully participated in the concluding hymn, in spite of their political and philosophical differences. Only in America can we come together in moments of challenge as did those the other day, united as “…one country, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

Looking ahead: It is indisputable that the six pointed star is closely associated with and stands as a representation of Judaism, very much so as the cross represents Christianity. To use the “Jewish Star” in a tweet presentation by the Trump campaign, playing to a horrible stereotype, ought to be unacceptable. And then, for the Trump campaign to make claims of its innocence, when this very anti-Clinton tweet was taken from a white supremacist and anti-Semitic website strains credulity. Trump’s campaign is not only an embarrassment; it is dangerous and contrary to the common wealth of the values of the United States.

Susan Haynie, mayor, Boca Raton

Last week: The Summer Olympics begin on August 5 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Olympic men’s soccer teams from Argentina and Colombia will train and play a practice match at Florida Atlantic University’s Stadium. Also, a Canadian synchronized swimming duo will be practicing at Boca Raton Community High School’s pool. Boca Raton is fortunate to have world-class athletic facilities in our community that has attracted Olympic athletes on their way to compete for the gold.

Looking ahead: The name Boca Raton has become synonymous with golf. But people are not talking about playing golf, they are talking about saving golf courses as a way to preserve open space in our community. In the coming future, the City will be addressing this issue in regards to the City’s western Boca Raton Municipal Golf Course and the in-City Ocean Breeze Golf Course. The future of these courses will undoubtedly be the talk of the town in the weeks ahead.

Hava Leipzig Holzhauer, regional director, Florida Anti-Defamation League

Last week: The Palm Beach Supervisor of Elections office bowed to pressure from residents who refused to vote in a polling station located at a mosque. Some blame the Supervisor’s office for acquiescing to anti-Muslim fears, some blame those who complained, some blame polling stations being located in houses of worship in the first place. Though all raise concerns, the most serious issue is the knee-jerk reaction of many in our community to avoid the mosque at all costs. Let’s be the change we want to see in the world and start building bridges of interfaith understanding in our own backyard.

Scott J. Israel, sheriff, Broward County

Last week: I applaud President Obama and officials in Dallas for their exemplary leadership during this moment of national distress. The heinous killings in Louisiana, Minnesota and Dallas have heightened tensions throughout the country and shaken us all to the core. Make no mistake; these incidents are an assault on each and every one of us. As we mourn all those lost in the senseless violence, I pray these tragedies serve as a somber reminder we all share the same goals for justice and peace. I am certain we can rise up against hate and distrust and unite as neighbors and friends.

Kristin Jacobs, member, Florida House of Representatives

Last week: I am numbed by last week’s events – the deaths of Alton Sterling, Philando Castile, and five Dallas police officers have made this a somber week for our country. The nation has the right to be outraged at the mistreatment of citizens at the hands of a few who swore to protect us, but indiscriminate violence towards law enforcement is not the answer. It is more than possible to be pro-equal rights while not being anti-police. Without standing together, we will never see the reform and equality we so desperately need.

Marty Kiar, commissioner, Broward County

Last week: 700,000 tires were dumped off the coast of Fort Lauderdale in the 1970’s in a failed attempt at creating an artificial reef. Those tires have plagued the marine life and surrounding coral. Broward Government and interested stakeholders have been removing the tires. The Sun-Sentinel reported that divers have removed about 130,000 tires; another 30,000 will be removed by the fall; and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has budgeted $1.8 million for future tire removal. The removed tires are burned to produce electricity. Tire cleanup and the restoration of the ocean floor’s ecosystem must continue to be a priority.

Keith Koenig, president, City Furniture

Last week: Sports Authority started in Lauderdale Lakes, grew to be a nationwide retailer, and recently filed for bankruptcy. Did Amazon and the internet hurt them? Most probably. What does that mean for our economy? Sports Authority collected Florida sales taxes that paid for education and state services. Many internet companies pay no sales tax. Is that fair? Or smart? Here is the real kicker: Florida is the only state in the US to charge retailers sales tax on their rent. Florida retailers get double whammy on sales taxes versus internet sellers.

Chip LaMarca, member, Broward County Commission

Last week: This week we lost a true giant in our community. Chuck Black came to Fort Lauderdale after his service in the Navy. He worked in our marine industry before opening “Image 360” with his wife Lynn. They became the graphics business serving many local businesses. Chuck was very active in the Chamber of Commerce and the Riverwalk Trust. However, his legacy is clear and he will be remembered for working tirelessly to convince the U.S. Navy to name a future ship the “USS Fort Lauderdale”. He did it this year! Chuck was a friend and great community partner. Fair winds and following seas Chuck.

Looking ahead: A soda tax? Are you kidding me? The far-reaching City of Philadelphia has gone too far this time. They have put a tax of 1.5 cents per ounce on sodas and diet drinks. This “soda tax” is just another way for the government to reach into your pocket without justification. The first of its kind, this tax is expected to raise more than $90 million a year for education and parks. I have a suggestion for the “City of Brotherly Love”. Instead of playing virtual sports on the game console, show your city some love and go play outside, enjoy your parks or trace the steps of Benjamin Franklin, who would be appalled at this ridiculous abuse of taxation.

Ina Lee, president Travelhost Elite of Greater Fort Lauderdale

Last week: The community mourns the sudden passing of Chuck Black who was instrumental in getting the U.S. Navy to name a ship the USS Fort Lauderdale. He was involved in Fleet Week, was appointed to the city’s Marine Advisory Board and very active in the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber. He was the epitome of a servant leader, a true gentleman and made an indelible mark on our community.

Looking ahead: Luxury is beginning to dominate the tourism sector as multi-million dollar upgrades are being invested in properties including the Diplomat Resort & Spa, the W Fort Lauderdale, Marriott Harbor Beach Resort and B Ocean. $700 million in new hotel development includes the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, the Gale Boutique Hotel & Residences, the Four Seasons Hotel & Private Residences, and Hollywood’s Hyde Resort and Melia Costa. New marketing initiatives are being developed to reach the affluent traveler to fill these rooms.

Clarence V. McKee, president, McKee Communications

Last week: A Quinnipiac University poll found that 74% of Florida voters felt that prejudice against minority groups “is a big problem” in the United States—85% of nonwhites, 68% of whites,74% of white women, 64% of white men, 88% of Democrats and 63% of Republicans. So what? Who cares? With such majorities one would think things might change. Not quite. The poll also showed that 51% felt that government “had gone too far to assist minorities.” So nothing will change. Don’t look for more minority officials, managers, professionals, consultants, vendors and advisors at local business.

Andy Mitchell, CEO, Fairwinds Group

Last week: The tragic events unfolding across the country have caused great pain and a pause for reflection. Growing up, my family taught me to have compassion, tolerance, and respect for others. These unifying qualities are attributes of a great community. Divisiveness and extreme hatred breeds contempt, which tears the fabric that holds us all together. A better solution is education, understanding, and appreciation of differing views without the need for violence or malicious behavior. It’s apparent after the devastating tragedy on 9/11 and more recent Dallas events, that when we’re unified, we’re stronger and it brings out the best in all of us.

Frank Ortis, mayor, Pembroke Pines

Last week: We’ve been witnessing many tragedies lately, senseless shootings, terrorist attacks, hatred towards others and political nonsense. So I understand why I am seeing hundreds of people of all ages walking around our city and others, trying to catch virtual Pokémon on their cell phones. This game, Pokémon Go, is getting people’s minds off of the seriousness of today’s issues, and encouraging them to go outside and just walk. I can’t blame them. Sometimes a virtual world looks a little nicer than what we’re dealing with today. I may just go out and try my hand at the “Pokémon Gym” myself.

Looking ahead: While it would have been more beneficial to have increased funding with the bill, at least The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) is heading to the White House. I get it. A bitter floor battle would serve no one, especially since the opioid epidemic in our country is out of control and growing. However, with over two million people reportedly abusing or dependent on prescription opioids, authorizing only $181 million for state drug abuse and treatment program grants isn’t enough. The fight against opioid addiction is critical. We need more funding, and to do more in prescription drug monitoring.

Dr. Eduardo J. Padrón, president, Miami Dade College

Last week: As our country and the world continue to face difficult moments of unrest and instability, I encourage our students, faculty and staff to unite more than ever to promote peace, good will and understanding in our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, families and communities affected by recent tragedies. As Democracy’s College, we promote an environment of inclusion and respect, and will continue to be a place of unity and hope.

Looking ahead: Registration for the fall semester which starts in August is ongoing at all our great public colleges and universities. At MDC, with new programs in data analytics, animation, fashion design, coding and many others, we have the recipe for life and career success. A post-secondary credential is a must in today’s 21st century global knowledge economy. More than 85% of all new jobs being created today require a college degree. Don’t miss out on the true passport to the middle class and prosperity, a quality, affordable, and innovative college education.

Greg Ross, mayor, Cooper City; president, Broward League of Cities

Last week: Law enforcement is one of the most vital resources provided by our cities. We are fortunate that these individuals, who themselves are parents, spouses, children and siblings, stand ready to serve, put their lives on the line every day, and if necessary, make the ultimate sacrifice. The dangerous circumstances our police encounter, when balancing the needs of our communities and residents, are rapidly increasing. We must continue to provide them with the necessary training and support that allows them to do their job in today’s environment of unprecedented challenges.

Mike Ryan, mayor, Sunrise

Last week: Law enforcement faces a dilemma when dealing with those in need of crisis mental health treatment who also own firearms. The Court of Appeals reiterated even if a person is involuntarily committed for mental health treatment, because the Florida legislature has prevented doing otherwise, law enforcement must return their firearms. Some will celebrate this decision. Others, particularly families and law enforcement, will question the wisdom of this public policy. Now, police brace for the day when they leave or return a firearm, followed by a call to a suicide or shooting, followed by a lawsuit against the police department.

Looking ahead: Municipalities are on the front line of educational success or failure in schools. Family Central and the City of Sunrise this past year collaborated to build a municipal-based early learning initiative intended to establish early learning quality standards for childcare centers and begin preparing parents for their own educational journey with their children. Sunrise childcare centers received professional mentoring and on-site coaching to maximize teachers’ skills, improve parent engagement, provide enriching learning experiences and standards for children, and training for parents to become advocates on behalf of their children. Together, we can change the world one child at a time.

Mike Satz, Broward State Attorney

Last week: Human trafficking is a reprehensible crime that law enforcement continues to fight. Recently, a West Park man was sentenced to 45 years in prison after a jury found him guilty of two counts of human trafficking. The defendant held himself up to be a music rapper and producer but was actually peddling sex and drugs. We all need to be vigilant so we can protect fragile victims of this terrible crime. If you suspect someone is a victim of human trafficking, call your local law enforcement agency or the State Attorney’s Office.

John “Jack” P. Seiler, mayor, Fort Lauderdale

Last week: The City Commission unanimously passed a resolution proposing no increase to our current millage rate of 4.1193 for FY 2017. This marks the 10th consecutive year we have held the line on property taxes. Our proposed budget addresses numerous neighbor priorities including: expanding parks and recreation; renourishing our beach; improving traffic flow; upgrading streets and sidewalks; enhancing public safety and emergency management; strengthening water and sewer infrastructure; creating safer, more walkable and bikeable streets; combating flooding and sea level rise; advancing sustainability; and investing in technology to streamline plan review and permitting. For details about the proposed budget and upcoming public hearings, please visit www.fortlauderdale.gov/budget.

Looking ahead: Attention teenagers! Please join us on Friday, July 22 as the Fort Lauderdale Black Police Officers Association presents the 2016 Teen Summit from 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. at Stranahan High School (1800 SW 5th Place). The Teen Summit is designed to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and our youth through interactive workshops focusing on life skills, leadership and character development, social media training, and preventive strategies against gang violence and substance abuse. The event also features a 3-on-3 basketball tournament and live entertainment. Don’t miss this awesome opportunity to engage and bond with Fort Lauderdale Police Officers. For details, please visit www.fortlauderdale.gov.

Cindy Arenberg Seltzer, president, Children’s Services Council of Broward County

Last week: Like so many of my friends and colleagues, I’m concerned about the crossroads we are facing as a nation. Will we succumb to the abyss of hatred and division or will we transcend into our best selves? At the CSC, we are determined to fulfill our mission to help children grow into healthy, productive adults supported by a nurturing family and community; thus, we are sponsoring training to promote racial equity and combat institutional racism, supporting efforts to promote economic self-sufficiency, and creating opportunities for bridge-building between police and our youth. Let’s make sure our best selves show up for our children.

Tom Shea, president, Right Management

Last week: If you’re skeptical about augmented reality’s potential to engage millions of users and create serious revenues, the U.S. debut of Pokémon Go should change your view. As the new mobile game sends Nintendo stock soaring, nostalgia-fueled Millennial and Gen Z players are walking around parks and landmarks, searching for virtual Pokémon characters on their smartphones. Augmented reality is a business trend to watch, with Magic Leap already making Broward an emerging hot spot for the industry.

Looking ahead: Gen Xers are in a squeeze as the workforce’s new sandwich generation. Research shows that the number of high-earning workers in their mid-30s to early 50s has been declining since 2008. Generation X is caught in the middle, as Boomer executives delay retirement and legions of tech-savvy Millennials and soon Gen Z’s enter the workforce. Florida’s industries need Gen Xers’ skills and perspectives. Moving them up the ladder with leadership training makes sense now, and it’s essential for our economic future.

Howard Simon, executive director, ACLU of Florida

Last week: Our nation has been shaken by the actions of a madman who ambushed and killed five Dallas police officers who were protecting protesters exercising their right to be heard. But this senseless tragedy cannot derail the needed national conversation about how communities of color are policed and the need for policing to be about safety and accountability. The tragic killings in Baton Rouge and Minneapolis – and the killing of Corey Jones in Palm Beach Gardens – raise critical questions about racism and policing. We must end this violence and remain committed to rebuilding trust between police and the communities they serve.

Looking ahead: The Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections’ decision to end the use of the Islamic Center of Boca Raton as a polling location and move it a few miles away to a city library was regrettable. Since churches and synagogues are used as polling locations, the decision looks like it is simply caving in to religious bigotry. The justification that some people “felt uncomfortable voting at the Islamic Center” and there may be threats “to impede voting” and “maybe even…a bomb threat” may send the terrible message that threats of violence can change public policies. Will this decision be reversed?

Eleanor Sobel, member, Florida Senate

Last week: Newborns are being assigned to different healthcare plans than their mothers and sick children are switched to plans that force them to travel for primary care. This is no way to treat Florida’s children. In a survey by Georgetown University, Florida pediatricians say children covered by Medicaid face more obstacles to receiving care than they did before the state switched them to private healthcare plans. “Florida has some decent protections in the managed-care contracts, but they’re clearly not being enforced,” said Joan Alker, director of Georgetown’s Center for Children and Families. This is hard to fathom and totally unacceptable.

Looking ahead: Recently, prominent author, historian, and moralist Elie Wiesel passed away. His call to action rings truer than ever: “We must take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.” Elie Wiesel was right, “we must interfere.” Let us take the side of the innocent victims of Orlando, Newtown, San Bernardino and the countless other mass shootings. 92% of Americans support expanded background checks, while 86% believe those on terror watch and no fly lists should be prohibited from buying guns. Let’s put an end to Florida’s well-earned reputation as the “Gunshine State.”

Katy Sorenson, president, Good Government Initiative, University of Miami

Last week: Fifty-three years after the Civil Rights Act, we still grapple with racism, exacerbated by the “leadership” of a presidential candidate. Black men are still assumed to be guilty unless proven otherwise. Video features on cell phones have exposed abuse by cops. And liberal gun laws put us all at risk of being gunned down. It’s the long, hot summer of 2016. Seven innocent men were killed last week – two African-American civilians and five white police officers who were trying to protect demonstrators. There has to be a path to reconciliation and empathy. We’re all responsible to find it.

Looking ahead: High bacteria and blue green algae are fouling our beautiful state. The east coast of Florida’s beaches and waterways are clogged and smeared with gunk from the runoff of Lake Okeechobee, which has been the sewage dump for Big Sugar, Big Citrus and cattle farmers – all big donors to feckless politicians. Our governor, the shameless Rick Scott, is once again blaming the feds, but who has gutted the Department of Environmental Regulation and put his cronies in charge of the Water Management Districts? Who has gleefully done the bidding of the polluters? That guy can’t leave office soon enough.

Robert Weinroth, Deputy Mayor, Boca Raton

Last week: The recent dust-up created by Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections Susan Bucher’s decision to relocate a polling station out of a Boca Raton mosque to a nearby public library is very unfortunate. With anemic voter turnout already projected for the upcoming August primary election, anything that might further depress turnout is detrimental to the election process. The venue for polling stations should be in neutral locations, wherever practical. Be it a church, synagogue or mosque, the use of these facilities should be avoided to remove the potential for prospective voters feeling uncomfortable as they seek to exercise their franchise.

Looking ahead: Merrick Garland, the US Appeals Judge nominated to the Supreme Court by President Obama, continues to await commencement of confirmation hearings by the US Senate. His nomination will likely be taken up after the November election if Secretary Hillary Clinton is elected president or if Democrats take control of the US Senate in January. Since Justice Antonin Scalia’s death in February, the remaining eight members of the Court have taken great pains to stay out of the political tempest surrounding his successor while allowing only a few of the cases under review to be affirmed by an equally divided Court.