Watchdog Report Vol. 10 No. 20 October 11, 2009
WATCHDOG REPORT
Miami-Dade, Florida
Vol. 10 No. 20 October 11, 2009
Daniel A. Ricker, Publisher & Editor
Est. 05.05.00 I go when you cannot & A community education resource & news service —
Celebrating My Tenth Anniversary since May 5th, www.watchdogreport.net & Former, Miami Herald independent news columnist
CONTENTS
Argus Report: In surprise move, President Obama is tapped for Nobel Peace Prize & South Fl. gets ready for NFL Pro and Super Bowls, 150,000 fans expected
Florida: Former Miami Mayor Ferre throws his hat in U.S. Sen. race, faces off against U.S. Rep. Meek & Sen. Diaz de la Portilla tapped as chair of energy committee, had $286,000 net worth in 2008
Miami-Dade County: County commission punts again, no employee pay cut costing $4 million per pay period, clock ticking on having balanced budget
Broward County: Will all the corruption arrests spur county voters to demand strong ethics legislation, maybe an IG?
Pinellas County: Gov. Crist appoints Thomas H. Minkoff of Gulfport to the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court.
Hillsborough County: Gov. Crist today appointed Richard A. Weis of Lithia to the Hillsborough County Court. A United States Air Force veteran and member of the United States Army Reserve since 1991, Lt. Colonel Weis is currently deployed to Afghanistan.
Monroe County: Two keys residents plead guilty to conspiracy to illegally harvest spiny lobsters
Miami-Dade Public Schools: Students should be educated about 2010 Census, could be point of information spear with family and friends
Public Health Trust: Its official, PHT board approves $3.1 million AOA with FIU medical school for Jackson North
City of Miami: Clock is ticking on mayor race, how low will Regalado and Sanchez go in attack ads?
City of Miami Beach: Proposed new ethics legislation discussion set for Oct. 14; time certain at 10:30 a.m., should be lively, outspoken debate
City of Coral Gables: Gables mayor and other mayors from around the state talk about civility in life and politics
Community Events: The Media panel at University of Miami, Pulitzer Prize and Miami Herald editorial columnist Pitts key speaker
Editorials: Community depends on two public education jewels, M-D College and FIU, major assimilation engine for our diverse community —- PAST WDR: JAN. 2006: Watchdog Report income from county in 2005 surges to $2,650, up from $2,000 but five papers that did not exist got $20,000 in the past
Sponsors – Publisher’s mission statement & Subscription information is at the bottom of this issue
>>> Just because you do not take an interest in politics does not mean politics will not take an interest in you. –Pericles (430 B.C.)
>>> If you wish to be deleted, just e-mail me with that message and you are free to e-mail this on to friends.
>>> The Watchdog Report publisher would like to thank the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation www.knightfoundation.org for funding the University of Miami’s Knight Center of International Media http://knight.miami.edu within the University’s School of Communication www.miami.edu assistance to rebuild my web site www.watchdogreport.net that is now on line again, since the previous one was shut down in July 2008. Past reports will continue to go on line in the future, potentially as far back as May 2000. This institutional support is a major break through for me, and I am deeply appreciative of the help these two substantial international institutions have given me at a time the site was an unbudgeted expense and to keep the Watchdog Report a community education resource, while also being a decade old news service.
>>> There will be no Watchdog Report next week, for I have to raise money and that is no easy task in today’s financial environment and I have lost some sponsors for a variety of reasons. Further, I have just completed 19-weeks in a row of reports and that is no easy task. If you believe it is important to have someone out there keeping their eye on your almost $ 15 billion in public institutions. Please do what you can to support my efforts to help keep the public informed.
ARGUS REPORT – Heard, Seen on the Street
>>> In surprise move, President Obama gets tapped for Nobel Peace Prize & South Fl. gets ready for NFL Pro and Super Bowls, 150,000 fans expected
President Barack Obama got a “surprise” Friday after it was announced that the newly minted president was being given the Nobel Peace Prize. The Nobel Committee, said he had changed how the world thinks of America and ‘hope for a better future,’ states www.miamiherald.com but many people are shaking their heads given the short time the president had been in office and the decision to select Obama just 11 days after he was sworn into office. The president at a sudden news conference Friday expressed his own low key surprise saying ‘I am both surprised and humbled by the decision’ and he suggested it was not for what he had accomplished in the months in office, ‘but rather as an affirmation of American leadership on behalf of aspirations held by people in all nation’s.’
Some Republicans at first carped about what the president had accomplished since taking office but many others in the party changed their tack saying it was a great honor for the country, though for many people, it was to soon into his new administration.
>>> Pro Bowl & Super Bowl coming next year, 150,000 fans expected to descend on South Florida
South Florida is preparing for a double barrel sports affair with the upcoming NFL 2010 Pro Bowl and Super Bowl XLIV being held Jan.31 and Feb. 7 respectively and over 150,000 fans are expected to attend these premier sports events that will be a real shot in the arm for the ailing tourist industry so vital to south Florida. This is the first time the NFL has held the Pro Bowl outside of Hawaii and it is a experiment to see if the two together works out. Miami will have hosted the Super Bowl 10 times after this one, but NFL official Frank Supovitz, the Senior Vice President of Events, told attendees of The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon attendees Wednesday that without major changes at Land Shark stadium it may be the last. Supovitz cited the rain downpour that occurred the last time the event was here and he noted. The Dallas Cowboy’s new stadium is enclosed and state of the art and there is of course New Orleans. The event over the years has highlighted Miami and helped create the area internationally around the globe. >>> The South Florida Super Bowl Committee needs citizens as ambassadors to help during the two events and for more information go to www.southfloridasuperbowl.com or volunteer@southfloridasuperbowl.com
>>> U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Miami told a transportation and infrastructure committee at the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce luncheon Friday that the state legislature not funding Tri Rail that runs from Miami-Dade to the north gives federal legislators an excuse to not fund other needed transportation infrastructure in South Florida. He said some members of the Florida Congressional delegation even went to Tallahassee to try to persuade state lawmakers, which is very unusual, but it was to no avail and the Tri Rail did not get state funding in the current budget year, and while running, it is at a reduced schedule. Diaz-Balart also said he favored certain types of public and private partnerships for some transportation and infrastructure projects. He also noted when it came to federal transportation trusts, the savings from higher gas millage from more efficient vehicles and hybrids, while great for the environment, is reducing the funds going into these trust’s by way of the federal gas tax.
>>> Mario Diaz-Balart Press release: October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and I want to take a moment to share with you some of the work I have been involved with and supportive of in Congress relating to this devastating epidemic. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in America and at some point touches every American. Until we find a cure, this ruthless disease will continue to impact millions of Americans, so it is imperative that we fund cancer research. It is also important to increase awareness of breast cancer, especially for those like minorities, low-income and young Americans, who might not regularly receive screenings.
My good friend and a cancer survivor herself, Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Broward, recently introduced legislation of which I am an original cosponsor and passionate supporter of, the Breast Cancer Education and Awareness Requires Learning Young Act of 2009. This legislation would increase educational outreach to young people who are often not aware of the potential risks of breast cancer and do not receive the proper screening. Though awareness is always vital, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a great time to encourage outreach, prevention and examination. I am committed to working with my colleagues in Congress and with leaders in the community including survivors and medical professionals to fund cancer research and look forward to the day when we find a cure.
>>> Falling Public Support for Healthcare Reform can be Turned Around –New poll by UT Health Science Center at Houston/Zogby: “The public leads the way.”
Press release: HOUSTON (Oct. 7, 2009)—Survey results published this week in the journal Health Affairs show that while only 27 percent of adults currently support the U.S. Senate Finance Committee’s proposed healthcare legislation, an amended bill could gain the majority’s favor. The poll was created and commissioned by S. Ward Casscells, M.D., vice president of external affairs and public policy and the John Edward Tyson Distinguished Professor in Cardiology at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. “I feel that the slumping support for healthcare reform can be turned around and that Americans do indeed care about this healthcare debate,” said Casscells, who was also a former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health under Presidents Bush and Obama. “Based on our survey results, any combination of several two-amendment changes to the current legislation would yield plurality or majority support, suggesting broad support may yet be achieved.”
The survey reported that while a majority of adults—almost 60 percent—oppose the proposed bill, and another 14 percent remain undecided, Americans say they would be likely to support a healthcare bill that includes a combination of certain amendments. “According to the data, if the draft legislation were to include amendments calling for malpractice reform, the elimination of an individual mandate and the addition of a public option, our survey shows that support strengthens—increasing from a mere 27 percent to 57 percent,” Casscells said. Zogby International conducted the online survey of 2,232 adults Sept. 28-30 and presented respondents with a detailed outline of a proposed healthcare bill and amendments based on draft legislation being debated in the U.S. Senate Finance Committee. The survey found that legislation including both malpractice reform and a public option yielded majority support, with 55 percent of respondents supporting it and only 41 percent opposing it. The elimination of the individual mandate combined with inclusion of a public option would garner support by 51 percent of respondents, and legislation that includes malpractice reform and the elimination of the individual mandate would fall just shy of a majority with 49 percent support.
John Zogby, president and CEO of Zogby International, said, “Again the public leads the way. They are neither left nor right on health care, simply practical. Politicians take note.” Casscells added, “It’s clear from the survey that people would like to have a say. They want choices, and providing those options increases support for healthcare reform. We hope that this academic survey will be useful as Congress continues its deliberations on this hotly debated issue.” “This latest polling by Zogby and Casscells is an important contribution to our understanding of this critical debate,” said Larry R. Kaiser, M.D., president of the UT Health Science Center at Houston. “It is obvious that Americans care about health care reform and are passionate about getting it done right. The insights from this poll could be used as guidance in choosing the best path.” Roberta B. Ness, M.D., MPH, dean of The University of Texas School of Public Health, said, “Tort reform has helped Texas health costs but to prevent disease and treat our uninsured we need the health reforms Congress is poised to enact, including incentives for individual wellness and public health. Dr. Casscells’ data collection efforts are leading the way in understanding public opinion in support of these important measures.”
Pete Nicholas, chairman of the board of Boston Scientific Corporation, also weighed in on the survey results. “These findings reinforce the fact that the American public favors sensible health care reform. As a leading medical device company, we support reform efforts as long as the specifics put patients first, promote innovation and control costs,” Nicholas said. “We support the delivery and payment-system reforms aimed at achieving efficiencies and improvements in patient care, such as comparative effectiveness research, value-based purchasing and policies that preserve patient and physician choice. The poll’s results in favor of malpractice reform are particularly important, as the cascading implications of defensive medicine pose a serious threat to the health care system: billions of dollars in unnecessary costs, which get passed on to patients in the form of higher insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.” The online survey carries a margin of error of +/- 2.1 percentage points. The survey results are available at the journal Health Affairs and an op-ed by Casscells and Zogby published this week on the Huffington Post Web site can be found at http://www.huffingtonpost.com/john-zogby/decision-day-for-democrat_b_311567.html. Please click the link below to view the news release on our new website: http://www.zogby.com/news/ReadNews.cfm?ID=1753
>>> Thanks to my supporters, the Watchdog Report, celebrated its Tenth Anniversary on May 5th.
Over the past ten years there have been so many stories and here are just a miniscule few that have been in the past 410 Watchdog Report’s that each has had almost three dozen stories or announcements per week, and that does not include around 100 Watchdog Report EXTRAS over this time. Back in September 2000, then county manager Merrett Stierheim gave the Watchdog Report the gift of a lifetime when I wrote he would be retiring by Feb 1 and he responded with a official county memo to the mayor and commissioners titled Rumor Control blasting my assertion that later became true. Other stories broken were that Miami Police Chief John Timoney was joining Miami in Jan. 2003 and that there was a man in Italy claiming to be a Miami vice Mayor and being wined and dined by Italian officials even though the city does not have such an office. Over the years I have covered almost every significant story regarding Jackson Memorial Hospital, the school board and county and sent a EXTRA from the PAC construction committee in the summer of 2003 noting the arts centers would be 20-months delayed and needed immediately over $60 million in new funding that ultimately came in at $472.9 million.
In addition, I have covered the Miami-Dade ethics commission and the Office of the Inspector General since there inception and over the years have done dozens of stories on people busted by both agencies since then. For me it is difficult to reflect sometimes on past stories because there have been so many and generally once I have done it I move on to the many other news stories that develop every day and spring up like weeds every week. I have tried to be the news contrarian, and if there is major media at an event, I will move on unless I have something significant to add, and given the size of our public institutions, something is always going on somewhere else. We may just not be aware of it.
>>> See what was said about the Watchdog Report in the Miami New Times 2003 — Best of Miami — BEST CITIZEN — Daniel Ricker –
Three years ago, we said Ricker was our Best Gadfly. Given his dedication and perseverance, this new honor, Best Citizen, is well deserved. Ricker goes to 2500 mind-melting meetings annually, from the Public Health Trust’s purchasing subcommittee to the Efficiency and Competition Commission to the Alliance for Human Services’ nominating council to the school board’s audit committee. Sometimes he’s the only public observer. Object: to be the Public Citizen for all those out there who can’t attend, and to connect and serve as an information bridge among the special-interest-dominated Miami-Dade governmental institutions that seem so problematic and indifferent to the democratic process.
This month his e-mail newsletter, The Watchdog Report, celebrates its fourth anniversary. In a former life Ricker made a handsome living as an international salesman of heart pacemakers. As the hard-working publisher of Watchdog Report, though, he’s struggling financially — this despite the fact that his weekly compendium of meeting summaries, analysis, interviews, and commentary has become essential reading for anyone involved in public affairs. What his written work may lack in polish, it more than makes up for in comprehensiveness. So raise a toast to the man whose official slogan says it all: “A community education resource — I go when you cannot!”
| >>>PAST WDR: July 2005: What and why there is a Watchdog Report |
| The Watchdog Report is a community education resource and news service that is published every Sunday night covering international, national, state and south Florida politics and the governance of your public institutions. Extras are published during the week of major news events, and that news is many times broken minutes after it occurred. The information is presented in a just the facts way with all most all of the stories having some form of support documentation. The intent is through the inter-net to educate the general public about what their public institutions are doing on an almost real time basis, acting as an information nervous system for South Florida.
The Watchdog Report publisher is also a news service and featured news columnist with The Miami Herald, and one of the stories published every week appears Monday in that Knight-Ridder news paper in the State & Metro section, with a photo. Readers include over one hundred different journalists and news organization throughout the world, giving the Watchdog Report a greater impact, since many times a major paper or television station will do a follow up story of an item first reported here. It is for this reason I tell people, if you do, something wrong and I write about it, wait 24 hours and see what happens. Generally, some other media source will have contacted the person or institution by then. How does the Watchdog Report put together so many different stories every week? Many readers have asked over the years how I am able to assemble so many different stories in a course of a week, since I work alone. I can do it because I have been watching the community full time for almost eight years now and I continually fill in the blanks after watching and talking to people about who and what makes our public institutions run. Further, I have the help of readers who act as mini-watchdogs and let me know when something is heating up or there is a problem and they suggest maybe I should swing bye. I also utilize video and audio tapes of public meetings allowing for the very small level of news corrections, or I have attended the meeting myself. Readers, the many people I talk to daily and my own efforts give the report its immediacy where governmental decisions are made sometimes minutes before a Watchdog Report EXTRA goes out detailing the decisions, all through the magic of the inter-net. In the late 1990’s Bill Gates, of Microsoft fame wrote a book called ‘Business at the Speed of Thought’ and it had his thesis about the need in business for immediate information, and its integration through complex business entities forcing inter-corporate communication, now available with the inter-net that made me think of applying that technology to our public institutions. Here in Miami-Dade we are not the size of Microsoft, but we do have over $12 billion in public institutions and that is not an inconsequential number. These different public institutions lumber along and exist within one another but are not up to speed about what they each are doing. That is why I do the Watchdog Report for these public institutions need to be informed, watched, challenged and pushed sometimes if they are not to become dysfunctional with one another and wasteful of our community’s public dollars. It is for this reason that I took the motto, ‘I go when you cannot.’ >>> What is ironic is how little resources are involved to put out the Watchdog Report The Watchdog Report has a new format, and the stories will be web based but it has been ironic how little in the way of equipment resources has been necessary over the last five years to publish this information. I put the report out with a standard PC or my laptop; there is no staff, no pollution associated with the product and it is virtually instantaneous in getting news into the public domain. I mention this because the technological advantage of the internet is so great that an average citizen, who persevered by watching your government relentlessly, over time was able to gain readers respect and financial support in colorful south Florida and to me that has been amazing. To my readers I think you for being interested in your government and hope you find the new Watchdog Report look more exciting and informative than ever. Thank you. |
FLORIDA
>>> Former Miami mayor Ferre throws his hat in U.S. Sen. race, faces off against U.S. Rep. Meek & Sen. Diaz de la Portilla tapped as chair of energy committee, had $286,000 net worth in 2008
Maurice Ferre, a former state legislator, three term Miami mayor and Miami-Dade County commissioner has thrown his hat in the ring for the 2010 U.S. Senate seat, now held by U.S. Sen. George LeMieux, R-Fl. Ferre, 74, is from Puerto Rico and believes he will be able to run a competitive campaign in the primary where he is facing U. S. Rep. Kendrick Meek, D-Miami, (net worth $62,000 in 2002), whose campaign has been on cruise control until now, and former North Miami Mayor Kevin Burns and U.S. Rep. Corrine Brown, D- Jacksonville round out the possible Democratic field. The Watchdog Report first broke the story that Ferre was considering running weeks ago, and when I called him back then. The first question I asked was about his age and ability to campaign on a statewide basis, which is essentially a candidate endurance test. Ferre, a dapper dresser, former Princeton University visiting Don, was a major proponent of a strong mayor form of government at the county and he recently had an editorial in www.miamiherald.com concerning the need for Florida to have an experienced Senator in Washington, D.C., a jab at LeMieux who was appointed to the office as a caretaker by Republican Gov. Charlie Crist (net worth $466,000). Ferre suggests that Meek’s support is weak around the state and Ferre will appeal to voters in the I-5 corridor and would be a more formidable candidate than the four term-congressmen. Meek however is having success in raising money for his campaign and he is drawing contributions around the nation and it remains to be seen if Ferre can raise enough money to become a serious threat to Meek’s attempt to be the party’s champion in the primary. Further, Ferre has run for Miami-Dade County mayor twice, and Miami and he has lost all three races and some question why he would subject himself to this grueling political challenge and all the scrutiny that comes with such a high profile race.
The governor is also running for the office in 2010, his fundraising has been brisk, and Crist is reporting $2.4 million in the past quarter adding to the $4.3 million already raised for his war chest. Crist is facing former House Speaker Marco Rubio, R-Miami, (net worth $8,351) and the young legislator is no slouch on the campaign trail and he has raised almost $1 million in the past quarter and he is gaining support from conservative Republicans that question Crist’s credentials after the governor embraced President Barack Obama federal stimulus plan, which helped fill gaps in the state’s budget this year. Rubio is slowly gaining traction, when the popular wisdom was he did not have a chance against the popular Crist but the party primary is a closed affair, that is expected to have moderate voter turnout, and that smaller voter pool could benefit Rubio.
>>> What about new senate committee assignments?
Beth Reinhard, the political columnist for www.miamiherald.com did a great story Saturday on state Sen. Jeff Atwater, R- North Palm Beach, (net worth $1.66 million) choice for new committee assignments that deal with ethics and elections and another chair appointment to an energy committee. Atwater, the Senate President for the ethics assignment picked newly elected state Sen. John Thrasher, R- Jacksonville, a former state legislator and lobbyist that ran afoul twice concerning ethics violations in the past. In the case of the energy committee, Atwater tapped state Sen. Alex Diaz de la Portilla, R-Miami, (Net worth $286,000) to chair the important body that is considering whether to open up off shore oil drilling to petroleum companies. In the case of Diaz de la Portilla, his wife is a lobbyist for the oil and gas industry and he essentially told the paper her affiliation would have no effect on what legislation was brought before the committee or how he might vote.
What do we know about Diaz de la Portilla’s finances?
The termed out senator in 2010 has a net worth of $286,850 through Dec. 2008 and he lists $100,000 in household goods. His home in Miami is valued at $450,000 and another in the state capital is worth $795,000. There is $4,800 in a Schwab account, an IRA has $2,150, there is $2,100 in a credit union, a checking account has $3,000 and there is $1,200 with MFF. The senator’s liabilities are $28,400 owed to Lexis, the law firm Sale & Kuehne is owed $5,000 (for legal services when the senator was charged with over $300,000 in elections violation fines that he beat back down) and mortgages are owed $386,000 and $632,000. His income for the year was $31,254 in his official capacity and another $70,000 came in from W Strategies Group, Inc.
>>> Gov. Crist press release: RE: Death Warrant in the Case of Paul Beasley Johnson
Governor Charlie Crist today sent the attached transmittal letter to Warden Steven Singer regarding the carrying out of the sentence in the case of Paul Beasley Johnson. Pursuant to Section 922.052, Florida Statutes, Governor Crist has designated the week beginning at 12:00 noon on Friday, October 30, 2009, through 12:00 noon on Friday, November 6, 2009, for the execution. In accordance with Section 922.11, Florida Statutes, Florida State Prison Warden Bryant has set the execution for Paul Beasley Johnson on Wednesday, November 4, 2009, at 6:00 p.m. Please find attached the transmittal letter, death warrant and final judgment and sentence from the Eighth Judicial Circuit.
>>> Press release: Governor Charlie Crist today announced the following reappointments and appointments: FLORIDA ENDOWMENT FOUNDATION FOR VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION
Richard Cole, 66, of The Villages, retired, reappointed for a term beginning October 9, 2009, and ending September 30, 2012.
Jason Havens, 35, of Destin, tax lawyer with Havens & Miller Law Firm, reappointed for a term beginning October 9, 2009, and ending September 30, 2012.
Bridget Pallango, 59, of Miami, senior vice president of Goodwill Industries of South Florida, reappointed for a term beginning October 9, 2009, and ending September 30, 2012.
Bob Butterworth, 67, of Fort Lauderdale, attorney with Atkinson Diner Stone Mankuta Law Firm, succeeding Sheila Buchbinder, appointed for a term beginning October 9, 2009, and ending September 30, 2012.
James Harding Jr., 43, of Tallahassee, external affairs manager with Agency for Persons with Disabilities, succeeding James Saunders, appointed for a term beginning October 9, 2009, and ending September 30, 2011.
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY
>>> County commission punts again, no employee pay cut costing $4 million per pay period, clock ticking on having balanced budget
After almost two days of commission meetings last week, the county commission made little progress in finishing up their $7.4 billion budget process that should have concluded Oct. 1 but has dragged on since the body is grappling with pay reductions for three unions, how to fund a variety of cut departments and community based organizations, the arts, looking for money and other ways to fund many of their pet projects. County Mayor Carlos Alvarez ($1.66 million net worth) had suggested a five percent cut for all employees, among the funding reductions and ultimately the layoff of “over 600 notices went out,” the mayor said last week. However, the new budget clock kicked off Oct. 1 and the lack of salary reductions is costing $4 million per pay period and only further digs the county into a financial hole. The Watchdog Report has never seen such indecision, given the body is obligated to have a balanced budget in place by October, and if this drags on, will the state get involved when it comes to its largest county not being able to craft a real balanced budget.
Further, after another Thursday commission meeting discussing the CBOs and their funding, the commission, Chaired by Dennis Moss ($477,000 net worth) who has his hands full with the other 12 commissioners, again punted, and they will discuss these organizations funding on Tuesday at a continued Special Commission meeting that begins at 9:30 a.m. in the commission chambers. It is televised and can be watched on line at www.miamidade.gov
>>> IRP appears to have lived for another year
The Independent Review Panel (IRP) appears to have gotten the $450,000 in funding and commissioners voted 11 to 1 to instruct the administration to fund the panel. The only no vote was Commissioner Javier Souto. The organization created after Arthur McDuffie was beaten by police, who were later charged and tried but an all white jury in Tampa acquitted the offending cops and riots, gunfire and major chaos and carnage erupted here in Miami after the verdict in 1981. The panel was created back then and since then it has evolved and hears resident’s complaints and most of these challenges by residents heard before the panel, involve the county’s police force officers in some way.
>>> Press release: Since 2005, pet adoptions have increased 266%, from 3,000 per year to a record breaking 8,330 animals. In addition, 50 Rescue Partners have broken their own record and saved 3,889 more pets. More animals than ever before in the history of the Department have been saved despite the difficult economic times. “As we celebrate this amazing achievement, we also face the challenge of in increasing number of animals abandoned at the shelter,” said Dr. Sara Pizano, Director of Animal Services. “This year, we received 37,149 dogs and cats. Pet owners need to understand that spaying and neutering our pets is the only way to decrease shelter intake and stop the senseless euthanasia of healthy animals,” added Dr. Pizano. Saving the lives of over 37,000 pets a year is a community effort and Animal Services urges the community to do the right thing: Spay/neuter your pets. Microchip and identify your pets. Adopt a shelter pet. Pet overpopulation is something we can control, but we need the community to make a difference. Be part of the solution, not part of the problem. >>> Miami-Dade Animal Services is responsible for enforcing Chapter V, as well as Florida Statutes 828, which deals primarily with animal cruelty issues. Unlike private shelters that have limitations on the number of pets they accept, Animal Services accepts all dogs and cats. Each year, the shelter impounds more than 37,000 pets. The goal at Animal Services is to reunite lost pets with their families or find life-long homes for as many animals as possible. Related links: www.miamidade.gov/animals or call 311.
>>> Press release: During the 2008-2009 fiscal year, The Beacon Council, Miami-Dade County’s official economic development organization, completed 30 new and expanding projects, representing a combined $111.9 million in new capital investment and 1,859 new jobs in Miami-Dade County. The announcement was made at The Beacon Council’s 2009 Annual Meeting & Lifestyle Auction held in Miami, Florida on October 7, 2009. The Beacon Council completed 30 company projects of which 15 opened new locations in Miami-Dade and 15 expanded locally. The new offices hail from parent companies based in Spain, France, Canada, Belgium, Venezuela and the United States. For names and company descriptions please see the attached Completed Projects List. Together with Miami-Dade County’s Mayor and Board of County Commissioners, The Beacon Council helps businesses meet their location and expansion needs by offering a variety of free and confidential services to companies interested in Miami-Dade County as a business destination.
“Our job creation attainment numbers this year exceed all expectations, the best numbers we have seen in 5 years. This is an encouraging sign that Miami-Dade County might be stabilizing and gives us hope that an economic recovery is close,” stated Frank R. Nero, President & CEO of The Beacon Council. “Without a doubt, our core mission is as critical now as it was 25 years ago when The Beacon Council was founded.” During the 2008-2009 fiscal year, The Beacon Council intensified outreach efforts to local businesses through its Local Business Local Jobs (LBLJ) program; Beacon Council representatives visited 158 area businesses that employ over 21,700 workers. In addition, 15 Local Business Local Jobs projects were completed, creating 1306 new jobs and retaining 187 existing jobs. The 15 projects resulted in $62 million in new capital investment. During the 2009-2010 fiscal year, The Beacon Council will be focusing on expanding the LBLJ Visitation Outreach. A LBLJ Committee has been created to focus on expanding the reach of staff and Beacon Council members for the outreach effort. Alexandra Villoch, Chair of The Beacon Council stated, “This is what the Beacon Council is all about, retaining or creating the jobs which help a family support themselves, jobs that allow people to support their local merchants, jobs that fortify industry and thus help attract more jobs. Continuing to attract new businesses to Miami-Dade, and helping to grow and retain the businesses we already have is an essential key to our future success as a community.” >>> For 25 years, The Beacon Council has been charged with bringing new, job generating investments to the community and assisting existing companies in their efforts to expand. As a result, The Beacon Council has completed more than 777 new location and expansion projects. These projects resulted in the creation of over 79,100 direct and indirect jobs and $2.79 billion in new capital investment to our community. >>> About The Beacon Council >>> The Beacon Council, Miami-Dade County’s official economic development partnership, is a not-for-profit, public-private organization that focuses on job creation and economic growth by coordinating community-wide programs; promoting minority business and urban economic revitalization; providing assistance to local businesses in their expansion efforts; and marketing Greater Miami throughout the world. For more information visit www.beaconcouncil.com.
BROWARD COUNTY
>>> Will all the corruption arrests spur county voters to demand strong ethics legislation, maybe an IG?
Federal prosecutor’s activities in Broward continue after the arrest of two elected leaders, one on the Broward Commission and School Board and a former city commissioner getting popped offers hope that the state’s second largest county could get an ethics commission, or better yet, an inspector general. An issue is coming to county voters where an ethics investigation could be done under the commission attorney’s direction. The Attorney would pick an outside person to do the investigation but that is far short of what Miami-Dade has in place. Given the events in Broward that are expected to continue when it comes to public corruption arrests, and this corruption bloodbath should push county voters to rise up and demand an end of the cronyism, friends of friends and all the other political games that go on with some of the elected leaders. Further, Broward has 31 municipalities and any ethics legislation must include these entities in the oversight mission because these local cities rarely get the scrutiny they deserve and while outrage continues to grow. It remains to be seen if voters will rise up and demand behavior that is more ethical and having their elected leaders not being on the take.
>>> Davie MAN CONVICTED OF BULK CASH SMUGGLING, FAILURE TO REPORT TRANSPORTED MONETARY INSTRUMENTS AND FALSE STATEMENTS
Jeffrey H. Sloman, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Anthony V. Mangione, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Office of Investigations, Harold Woodward, Director of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Miami Field Office, and Al Lamberti, Sheriff, Broward County Sheriff’s Office, announced that a federal jury in West Palm Beach found defendant Juan Antonio Moya-Rodriguez, 31, formerly of Davie, FL, guilty, following a two day trial. More specifically, defendant Moya-Rodriguez was found guilty of bulk cash smuggling, in violation of Title 31, U.S.C. §5332(a), failure to report transported monetary instruments, in violation of Title 31, U.S.C. §5316(a)(1)(B), and making false statements to a federal agency, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. §1001. Sentencing has been scheduled for December 14, 2009, before the U.S. District Judge Donald M. Middlebrooks in West Palm Beach, FL. Moya-Rodriguez faces a statutory maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment on each count, to be followed by a term of up to three years of supervised as to each count.
According to evidence presented at trial, on July 26, 2009, ICE special agents arrested Juan Antonio Moya-Rodriguez, a lawful permanent resident of the United States, after he was found with approximately $123,548 in undeclared U.S. currency by Customs and Border Protection officers at the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport. Rodriguez was traveling on Spirit Airlines from Panama City, Panama, to the U.S. and had the U.S. currency taped to the inside of three pairs of jeans hidden at the bottom of his suit case. Rodriguez initially told Customs and Border Protection officers that he only had $7,500 in his possession. However, upon being confronted with the money recovered in the jeans, Rodriguez admitted to law enforcement that he possessed approximately $127,000. >>> Mr. Sloman commended the investigative efforts of ICE’s Office of Investigations, Customs and Border Protection, and the Broward County Sheriff’s Office Money Laundering Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lothrop Morris and Jennifer C. Millien. A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
PINELLAS COUNTY
>>> Gov. Crist appoints Thomas H. Minkoff of Gulfport to the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court.
“Tommy’s two decades of experience practicing law make him prepared to take the bench,” Governor Crist said. “I am confident his expertise, breadth of knowledge and intellect will help him serve the Sixth Circuit with fairness and integrity.” Minkoff, 59, practiced privately with Deeb & Durkin P.A. since 2007 and was the general counsel for Complex Properties Corporation since 1990. During the same period, he was also legal counsel for the Republican Party of Pinellas County from 2005 to 2007, general counsel for GEMM Development from 1999 to 2001, for Regional Capital Management Corporation from 1996 to 2001, for Royal Palm Community Development Corporation from 1992 to 1998, for MFR from 1987 to 1994, for Gulf Coast Home Health Services from 1977 to 1993 and regional counsel for Kimberly Quality Care from 1987 to 1993. Previously, he also represented Medex Home Health Services from 1975 to 1977. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers College in New Jersey and a law degree from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. Minkoff will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of Judge Robert J. Morris to the Second District Court of Appeal.
>>> Press release: TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today recognized Ramon Carrion of Safety Harbor as this week’s Point of Light in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.
“Ramon has been a beacon of compassion and legal guidance for the Hispanic community in Pinellas County,” said Governor Crist. “The time he has devoted to reaching out and helping his Hispanic neighbors speaks to his humane and generous nature.” During the past ten years, Ramon has been an active volunteer at the Hispanic Outreach Center, a community resource dedicated to supporting, educating and providing access to services for Hispanic residents. As an attorney, he volunteers his time at the Hispanic clinic for residents, offering legal advice and counseling to those with questions including wage rights, immigration status, child custody, domestic violence, and real estate and housing. Ramon has been instrumental in teaching Hispanic residents how to effectively navigate the legal system. In addition to giving legal assistance, he also educates and counsels center staff about ethnic legal issues, as well as donates needed equipment to the facility. >>>AAA Auto Club South is the supporting sponsor of the Governor’s Points of Light Award. This program recognizes Florida residents who demonstrate exemplary service to the community. Award recipients are announced weekly. A panel of judges comprised of leaders in the areas of volunteerism and service evaluate all nominations and make recommendations to the Governor. The Volunteer Florida Foundation manages the program. For more information, or to submit a nomination, go to www.VolunteerFloridaFoundation.org.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
>>> Press release: Gov. Crist today appointed Richard A. Weis of Lithia to the Hillsborough County Court. A United States Air Force veteran and member of the United States Army Reserve since 1991, Lt. Colonel Weis is currently deployed to Afghanistan.
“I am honored to appoint such a decorated member of our nation’s military to serve on the county bench,” Governor Crist said. “Richard’s thorough attention to detail and calm demeanor under pressure will be of great benefit to the people of Hillsborough County.” Weis, 49, has been a general magistrate for the 13th Judicial Circuit since 2005. Previously, he served as senior appellate attorney for the Florida Department of Transportation from 2000 to 2005. During the same period, he served as a military magistrate for the United States Army from 2002 to 2004 and as Office-in-Charge for the Hunter Army Airfield Legal Center in Savannah, Georgia, from 2002 to 2003. From 1997 to 2000, he was the Command Judge Advocate for the 2nd Medical Brigade in San Pablo, California. Weis began his law career in private practice, first, as an associate attorney with Muga and Real from 1987 to 1988 and the Law Office of S. Gonzalez from 1988 to 1989, and then as a sole practitioner from 1990 to 1997. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Tampa and his law degree from Stetson University College of Law. Weis will fill the vacancy created by the elevation of Judge Elizabeth Rice to the 13th Judicial Circuit.
MONROE COUNTY
>>> TWO KEYS RESIDENTS PLEAD GUILTY TO CONSPIRACY TO ILLEGAL LY HARVEST SPINY LOBSTERS
Jeffrey H. Sloman, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Hal Robbins, Special Agent in Charge, NOAA Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement, Southeast Division, Eddie McKissick, Resident Agent in Charge, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS), and Sean Morton, Superintendent of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS), announced that John Buckheim, 23, and Nick Demauro, 23, of Baypoint in the Florida Keys, pled guilty yesterday in federal District Court in Key West to conspiring to illegally harvest spiny lobsters from artificial habitat placed in the FKNMS and various federal wildlife refuges. Their convictions arose from an on-going anti-poaching investigation, called Operation Frost Bite. Buckheim and Demauro entered their guilty pleas before U.S. District Court Judge James Lawrence King, who indicated sentencing would occur in approximately 70 days in Key West. The defendants each face maximum statutory sentences of up to five years in prison, to be followed by a term of supervised release and fines. Plea agreements executed by the defendants also required their immediate surrender of the navigation equipment and location data for all the artificial habitat sites. Their pleas will also result in the forfeiture of a vehicle and a vessel, or cash equivalent, used by the defendants to facilitate the criminal conduct.
According to the Indictment, a Joint Factual statement filed with the Court at the time of the plea, and other court records, the two defendants were involved in the illegal harvest of more than 8,500 pounds of spiny lobster over six months, beginning in the early summer of 2008. FKNMS regulations implemented in 1977, at Title 15, CFR §922.163(a)(3), prohibit any alterations of, or construction on the seabed of the Sanctuary. Constructing, placing, or abandoning any structure, material, or other matter on the seabed is prohibited as part of the effort to preserve the marine environment. As part of their plea, defendants admitted constructing, placing and using approximately 450 of the artificial structures, and that defendant Buckheim sunk a vessel in October 2008 as part of their effort to place artificial habitat in the FKNMS. Florida Administrative Code, Section 68B-24.006, which in part addresses gear that may be employed in harvesting lobster, and “Prohibited Devices,” states “ No person shall harvest any spiny lobster from artificial habitat.” The regulation defines artificial habitat as “any material placed in the waters of the state that is reasonably suited to providing cover and habitat for spiny lobster. Such material may be constructed of, but is not limited to, wood, metal, fiberglass, concrete, or plastic, or any combination thereof, and may be fabricated for this specific purpose or for some other purpose….” Other regulations in Chapter 68B prohibit any person from commercially harvesting, attempting to harvest, or having in their possession, regardless of where taken, any spiny lobster during the closed season. The sanctioned commercial season runs from August 6 through March 31 of the following year. An exception exists for the annual lobster sport mini-season.
According to Court records, the defendants made more than 32 trips to illegally harvest lobster by diving on artificial habitat. The defendants received payments made by check to Buckheim of over $45,000 from a Key West fish house for the illegally harvested spiny lobster. The illegal lobster, including a substantial amount of frozen lobster tails harvested in advance of the legal season, had a retail value exceeding $155,000. In order to reduce the risk that their activities would be detected, the defendants displayed a commercial dive placard on Buckheim’s vessel during the legitimate dive season although they were not entitled to use the commercial dive endorsement under Florida law. The defendants acquired the placard and accompanying licenses by paying $4,000 to another individual who legitimately held the licenses and endorsements required under Florida law. However, a materially false “lease” agreement was filed with State authorities claiming that Buckheim’s vessel was leased to the license-holder and concealed the fact that the vessel was never leased and out and was intended to be employed by the defendants in the illegal scheme. During the course of the investigation, federal agents utilizing Global Positioning System (GPS) trackers reconstructed harvesting trips conducted by the defendants. Federal agents, assisted by Metro-Dade Police Department Underwater Recovery Unit, sampled locations of interest on the tracklines and had a 100% correlation between the defendants’ dive sites and the location of artificial habitat. Additionally, the divers verified and documented the absence of any natural lobster habitat in the vicinity of the illegal structures. >>>The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) is a 2,800 square nautical mile area that surrounds the entire archipelago of the Florida Keys and includes the productive waters of Florida Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Atlantic Ocean. The FKNMS encompasses coastal and oceanic waters, and the submerged lands thereunder, surrounding the Florida Keys, and extending westward to include the Tortugas islands, but excluding Dry Tortugas National Park. >>> Mr. Sloman commended the coordinated investigative efforts of the NOAA Office for Law Enforcement, the FWS, Office of Law Enforcement, and the technical assistance of the crew of the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission vessel Peter Gladding, a United States Coast Guard Dolphin helicopter aircrew, the FWS Southeast Regional Dive Team, and the Miami-Dade Police Department Underwater Recovery Unit for their assistance in this matter. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Watts-FitzGerald. A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
MIAMI-DADE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
>>> Students should be educated about 2010 Census, could be point of information spear with family and friends
The school board is holding its committee meetings Monday, there is a board meeting on Wednesday, and will you be there, because I will not. The board meeting can be watched on line at http://www.dadeschools.net/ for the nation’s fourth largest public schools distinct that has about 335,000 students and a almost $5 billion budget. The district peaked a few years ago with about 365,000 pupils but that number has shrunk, with people moving out of the county and the creation of over 80 Charter Schools. Superintendent Alberto Carvalho was able to balance the district’s current budget with federal stimulus funding but he also warns in just over a year from now. The system will fall off a financial cliff that includes massive school capital debt that needs to be serviced.
Because of Miami-Dade’s population demographics, the public schools are not only a educational enterprise but a social assimilation machine into America society, and some courses are taught in over a dozen languages to give one a sense of the melting pot we are dealing with, and how these young people grow and learn will profoundly affect, how South Florida develops in the future.
What about the 2010 Census?
Last week the Watchdog Report wrote about the importance of the mandated U.S. Census every decade and public school students must be the point of the spear in getting in front of their parents telling them how important it is to be counted. For each person undercounted costs the community $3,000 a year for the next decade and the associated political clout. Further, the Census for the students is a great way to get involved in real life civics and the district must use this special resource. For an educated student being able to discuss the confidential Census administered by the Commerce Department with their parents and relatives is far more effective than a television ad. And a successful count is not only good for everyone in Miami-Dade, but the school district benefits as well and the district needs all the help it can get.
>>> MORE THAN 2,000 M-DCPS STUDENTS RECOGNIZED WITH ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) SCHOLAR AWARDS
Press release: The College Board recently distinguished Miami-Dade senior high schools and students for academic excellence and student achievement. Forty-six Miami-Dade senior high schools and 2,259 students received Advanced Placement (AP) Scholar Awards for demonstrating college-level achievement through AP courses and exams. There are five categories of AP Scholar Awards, including AP Scholar, AP Scholar with Honor, AP Scholar with Distinction, AP State Scholar, and National AP Scholar. AP Scholar Award recipients receive a certificate and their achievement is acknowledged on AP Score Reports sent to colleges. The students not only gain recognition from colleges, but also win the admiration of their peers, families, and community.
Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) AP achievement highlights include: The total number of senior high schools receiving AP Scholar Awards increased by 15% from 40 in 2007-2008 to 46 in 2008-2009. The total number of students receiving AP Scholar Awards increased by 8% from 2,091 in 2007-2008 to 2,259 in 2008-2009. The number of students recognized as AP Scholars increased by 12% from 1,187 in 2007-2008 to 1,333 in 2008-2009. The number of students recognized as AP Scholars with Honor increased by 13% from 348 in 2007-2008 to 394 in 2008-2009.
AP courses prepare students for college success and helps offset college costs. Participation and success in AP courses also helps students qualify for college scholarships. The College Board is a not-for-profit membership association whose mission is to connect students to college success and opportunity. The College Board’s AP program offers more than 30 courses and exams and provides students with the opportunity to take college-level courses and earn college credit or placement, while still in high school.
>>> Press release: Superintendent of Schools Alberto M. Carvalho hosted a reception last night with Daniel Bottero, founding artist of the Superintendent’s Artist in Residence Program. The reception recognized past contributors to The Foundation for New Education Initiatives, Inc., a supporting organization of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, and welcomed future supporters. Daniel Bottero, founder of the Bottero Art Initiative, is a talented painter whose works are displayed around the world. Bottero graduated from the National School of Fine Arts in Buenos Aires. He earned his Master’s Degree at the Academia Italiana di Belle Arti in Lucca, Italy. From 1986 to 1990, Bottero resided and worked in Paris. Since 1990 he has lived and worked in New York. He currently has galleries in Wynwood and Buenos Aires.
Bottero will teach monthly classes and students will assist him in designing and painting a mural at Miami Edison Senior High School. In addition to his classes, he will visit other schools to promote the arts. The Superintendent’s Artist in Residence program brings professional artists, including musicians, writers, composers, as well as visual and performing artists, into the classroom to introduce students to the arts and culture.
PUBLIC HEALTH TRUST
>>> Its official, PHT board approves $3.1 million AOA with FIU medical school for Jackson North
The board is taking a road trip this Tuesday to Jackson North Medical Center acquired a few years ago for around $33 million and the acquisition expanded the health systems reach in north Miami-Dade. The all day long health trust committee meetings are going to be held at the hospital and it will be an opportunity to really check out the hospital. The facility was gotten for a steal a few years ago after the private company that owned it, were busted by the feds, and this facility and another in Broward changed hands on the same day and the sale was part of a company settlement with federal officials. Jackson North as a health facility was in good shape and will be where the new FIU medical students get some of their clinical medical training that emphasizes primary care medicine.
>>> The PHT board at the September board meeting approved a $3.1 million Annual Operating Agreement with Florida International University’s College of Medicine for physician services at Jackson North Medical Center and officially begins the affiliation between the two public institutions.
CITY OF MIAMI
>>> Clock is ticking on mayor race, how low will Regalado and Sanchez go in attack ads
At Thursday’s commission meeting, one thing is clear, there will be little in the way of new legislation until after the Nov. 3 election, as both mayoral candidates Commissioners Tomas Regalado and Joe Sanchez battle for voters in the run-up to the election from the televised commission dais. The morning was spent discussing a number of ideas and issues but the upcoming election hangs over the dais like a cloud, and in the case of the mayor’s race. Only one candidate will be left after the Election Day since only the two men are running versus the other three commission races that have a large field of candidates and a runoff is expected.
What about Mayor Diaz?
Mayor Manuel Diaz has taken a low-key posture during this election, he did not attend a debate I attended recently, and it is unknown as the days tick down if he will stump for Sanchez in a big way. Regalado has been a frequent critic of the mayor over the past eight years and is considered the anti-Diaz by his supporters, though Regalado says no is not against development. However, as the days go by and Nov. 3 approaches voters will get to see how these two men plan to run their campaign on the airwaves, and how low may these different races go in a community that is known for past viscous political campaign attack ads.
>>> Press release: Candidates for mayor and three city commission seats in Miami will tell voters how they would make their government more honest, transparent and accountable at an Ethics Forum, 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 in Room 2106 at the Wolfson Campus of Miami-Dade College, 245 NE 4th St. in downtown Miami. The Forum is co-sponsored by the Miami-Dade Commission on Ethics and Public Trust and Miami-Dade College. It was rescheduled from September 29th because of the special budget hearing called by the Miami City Commission. Rather than focusing on issues common to other debates, questions posed during the Ethics Forum will cover potential conflicts of interest, the role of lobbyists or other special interests in government, accountability in procurement, public campaign financing, ethical leadership and how to improve citizens’ confidence in their local leaders. Annie Betancourt, a former Florida State Representative and a current Director of the League of Women Voters of Florida, will moderate the Forum. The event is free and voters (along with Miami-Dade students) are encouraged to attend. >>> The Ethics Commission was created in 1996 as an independent agency with advisory and quasi-judicial powers. It is composed of five members, serving staggered terms of four years each. Through a program of education and outreach, the Commission seeks to empower the community and bolster public trust.
>>> Miami 21 will be presented to the City Commission on second reading as part of the agenda of a regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday, October 22, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at Miami City Hall, located at 3500 Pan American Drive. All those interested in participating are encouraged to attend. WHAT: Miami 21 Second Reading WHEN: Thursday, October 22, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. WHERE: Miami City Hall Chambers, 3500 Pan American Drive –For any questions, please call the Miami 21 hotline at (305) 416-2121 or visit the Miami 21 website at www.miami21.org
>>> Press release: TWO SOUTH FLORIDA RESIDENTS PLEAD GUILTY TO TAX PREPARATION CONSPIRACY
Jeffrey H. Sloman, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and Daniel W. Auer, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, announced that defendant Allen K. Smith, of Miami, pled guilty today to conspiring to defraud the United States for the purpose of impeding the Internal Revenue Service, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. Smith’s co-defendant, Mark Thomas, of Miami, pled guilty to the same charge on September 18, 2009. At sentencing, they each face a maximum statutory term of imprisonment of up to five years. Sentencing has been scheduled for January 8, 2010 in Miami, FL, before U.S. District Court Judge Ursula Ungaro. As part of their plea agreements, each defendant agreed to pay $380,057.00 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. According to court documents, from approximately 2001 to 2005, Smith and Thomas conspired to defraud the U.S. by preparing fraudulent tax returns that contained fictitious or inflated deductions, often for medical expenses. The individuals for whom Smith and/or Thomas prepared false returns had legitimate Forms W-2, 1099, 1098 or other documents evidencing income and legitimate deductions. On virtually every return Smith and/or Thomas prepared, the taxpayer claimed a refund that was exactly equal to the withheld amount. Smith and Thomas often represented to their clients that the clients could receive refunds equal to the amount of taxes withheld. >>> Mr. Sloman commended the investigative efforts of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rosa Rodriguez-Mera. A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
>>> The following e-mail was sent to Mayor Manny Diaz using his e-mail address on his extensive city web-page on Sept. 13, 2008 at 9:38 a.m. and to date there has been no answer from the mayor.>>> “Mayor Diaz, I wanted to ask you in the chamber today but not in front of Chair Joe Sanchez. My question is where did the extra $400,000 in the 2007 disclosure form come from? I will run what ever you respond unedited but I would appreciate closing this issue, as I am sure you do. Sorry but I have to ask. Best to all. Dan” >>>> The Watchdog Report through Dec.7 has yet to get a response or catch-up with Miami Mayor Manuel Diaz on where he got the extra $400,000 in cash listed in his 2007 financial disclosure forms. To see what CBS 4 reporter David Sutta’s take on this issue and the other city leaders financial disclosures go to cbs4.com Blogs . >>> Readers should stay tuned and catch the meeting on the city’s cable station channel 77. >>> Stream Channel 77, for all City of Miami meetings, (Commission, Village Council meetings, Waterfront, Zoning, PAB, Code, etc. hearings) http://videos.miamigov.com/
CITY OF MIAMI BEACH
>>> Proposed new ethics legislation discussion set for Oct. 14; time certain at 10:30 a.m., should be lively debate
If first you don’t succeed, try, try, and try again when it comes to new ethics legislation being suggested by different commissioners. The multiple ethics items will now be discussed on Oct. 14 and it is time certain at 10:30 a.m. during the commission meeting. The commission already has some of the strongest ethics legislation in the nation, and with the mayoral and some commission seats up for election on Nov. 3, everything has a political overtone. This year’s elections have really heated up and candidates our out in the city trying to make their case to municipal voters that they should be the chosen ones. However, since some incumbents are up for reelection this will be the forum where they showcase their ethics credentials when it comes to such legislation, the impact of lobbyists to exert influence on the dais, and municipal residents will be in for a great debate and show on the dais.
>>> What about the mayor and commission races? >>> Clerk’s office: NOVEMBER 3, 2009 GENERAL ELECTION — The following individual(s) have submitted Form DS-DE 9 (Appointment of Campaign Treasurer and Designation of Campaign Depository for Candidates) Mayor (Mayor Bower’s Seat) Matti Herrera Bower, Raphael Herman, Joshua Larose; Group I (Commissioner Libbin’s Seat), Jerry Libbin, Oduardo Segui; Group II (Commissioner Gross’ Seat), Roger Abramson, Jorge Exposito, Maria Mayer, Sherry Roberts; Group III (Commissioner Diaz’s Seat), Alex Fernandez, Michael Gongora, Gabrielle Redfern, Luis Salom, and Martin Shapiro –*denotes latest change >>> Editor’s note: David Smiley in www.miamiherald.com did a great profile on the candidates Saturday.
>>> The 4th Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival At North Shore Park! >>>Press release: The North Shore Park and Youth Center (501 72nd Street) will host its 4th annual “Hispanic Heritage Festival” on Friday, October 16, 2009 from 6 – 9 pm. The event will focus on the celebration, achievements and contributions of Hispanics from past to present. In addition to the educational experience, children, adults and seniors from the Miami Beach community will be able to enjoy a variety of activities. Children from the City of Miami Beach’s after school programs from North Shore Park, Scott Rakow Youth Center, Flamingo and Muss Park will present a variety of dance performances to music sung by popular Hispanic artists and groups. In addition to the entertainment, there will be a variety of authentic Latin dishes to enjoy along with the Latin music! For more information on the “Hispanic Heritage Festival” please contact the North Shore Park and Youth Center at 305-861-3616. Look for future events and other Miami Beach Parks and Recreation programming in your Recreation Review, call our offices at 305-673-7730 or visit our new and improved website at www.miamibeachparks.com.
CITY OF CORAL GABLES
>>>Gables mayor and other mayors from around the state talk about civility in life and politics
>>> City’s web newsletter: Building Citizenship In The Community >> The City of Coral Gables is participating in a initiative developed by the Florida League of Cities. A recent roundtable organized by the Office of the Mayor gathered a group of community leaders to discuss civics and civility under the theme of “Building Citizenship in the Community: Back to Basics.” The mayors from the Village of the Palmetto Bay and the Village of Pinecrest, the Vice Mayor of Wellington, private and public schools representatives, as well as executives from the University of Miami, Dade Medical College, Coral Gables Community Foundation, Kiwanis International, and Coral Gables Museum were among the participants. In light of recent tragedies at local schools and national headlines about uncivil conduct in sports and music, the absence of civility is becoming more apparent each day. The group discussed the need to educate students on the essential integration of civility in our society and about the inner workings of municipal governments and the fundamentals of city services. For more information on the program, contact the Office of the Mayor at 305-460-5220.
>>> Take The Pledge To Living Green >>> The City of Coral Gables takes great pride in conservation and eco-friendly efforts, and now it’s time to prove it. The City of Coral Gables has accepted the South Florida Living Green Fair’s Mayors Challenge and needs your help to show that we’re among the greenest communities in South Florida. By taking a few minutes to review easy and helpful tips for preserving our precious water resources, you will receive a free family pass for five to the South Florida Living Green Fair. Once you complete the short pledge, you will receive a code to print your free tickets. This event takes place November 14–15 at John U. Lloyd Beach State Park. Let’s work together to conserve clean water in the City of Coral Gables. Take the Challenge to help us earn bragging rights as South Florida’s most eco-minded community, by clicking here.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
>>> Press release: MIAMI-DADE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND ZONING HOSTS A PUBLIC WORKSHOP AS PART OF AN ANALYSIS AND ASSESSMENT OF THE URBAN DEVELOPMENT BOUNDARY AND RELATED POLICIES
As one of the recipients of the 2008 Technical Assistance Program through the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the County is provided with technical assistance through a panel of experts (EPA Study Team) to conduct a policy analysis of the County’s Urban Development Boundary (UDB). The objective of this analysis is to provide an independent evaluation and assessment of the County’s UDB policies and practices. The EPA Study team will visit Miami-Dade County on October 14-16, 2009. As part of the assessment the Study Team will conduct a public workshop on Oct 15, 2009 between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm at 101 W. Flagler Street (Miami-Dade County Main Library) to gather comments from the public and all other interested parties. On October 16th 2009 the EPA Study Team will be discussing and presenting their work to date at the Board of County Commissioner Chambers located at 111 NW 1st Street, 2nd Floor, Miami, FL 33128. WHO: Miami-Dade County Department of Planning and Zoning, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) WHAT: Workshop Conducting an Analysis and Assessment of the Urban Development Boundary and Related Policies. WHEN: Thursday, October 15, 2009 between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm, WHERE: Miami-Dade County Main Library, 101 West Flagler Street, Auditorium, Miami, FL 33130 —For questions about the information contained in this advisory please contact Subrata Basu, Miami Dade County Department of Planning and Zoning at (305) 375-2557. >>> It is the policy of Miami-Dade County to comply with all of the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please call the Department of Planning and Zoning ADA Coordinator at 305-375-1244 at least five days in advance if requesting a sign language interpreter, assistive listening devices or materials in accessible format.
>>> 4th ANNUAL BINGO NIGHT — Team Mission Not Impossible presents Bingo Night to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. The event will be held on Saturday, October 24th at Midtown Realty International, Inc. at 11550 SW 72nd Street. A $20.00 donation will be collected at the door, which includes one bingo card and all games. An advance ticket includes one beer or wine. There will be a cash bar, complimentary desserts and coffee, and lots of prizes. Please call 305-790-7696 to RSVP and/or for Advance Ticket Purchases.
>>> Press release: ETHICS AND THE MEDIA — “Principled Journalism and Government Relations in a New Era”
A one-day conference for South Florida journalists, government officials and public relations professionals sponsored by the Miami-Dade Commission on Ethics, the School of Communication at the University of Miami and the South Florida Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists >> FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2009 – 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., School of Communication, University of Miami, 5100 Brunson Drive, Coral Gables, Florida >> Keynote Speaker: Syndicated Columnist Leonard Pitts, Jr., Other conference presenters include: The Hon. Lynda Bell, Miguel Diaz de la Portilla, Esq., Helen Aguirre Ferre, Howard Finklestein, Esq., Dwight Lauderdale, Michael Lewis, The Hon. Harvey Ruvin, Chief John Timoney — Workshop Topics include: Media, Law and Public Access; The Revolving Door between Government and Media Government Information: Presentation and Perception, The Appearance of Impropriety >>> The $20 registration fee includes breakfast, lunch and a panel discussion on Political Smears and Media Manipulation >>> For more information contact the Miami-Dade Commission on Ethics at 305-350-0631 or ethics@miamidade.gov .
EDITORIALS
>>> Community depends on two public educational jewels, M-D College and FIU, major assimilation engine for our diverse community
Continued education after high school is South Florida’s greatest challenge, and the role of the public higher education institutions here in our community, cannot be over emphasized. For the rest of the world is moving at a technologically breakneck pace, and it is up to these young Americans to answer the technological call. I listen to community leader’s talk about the need for further education constantly across a wide range of subjects, from medicine, science, engineering, IT, law, and a host of other skills and professions, and here in Miami-Dade. The two public higher education jewels are Miami-Dade College and Florida International University and these institutions must be helped to fulfill that education charge that is no easy goal. For we live in a diverse ethnic community, speak over a dozen different languages, and have residents from around the world trying to meld into America and their only hope along with residents is pulling themselves up by their education bootstraps. I know the College has around 160,000 students in all its different schools and I believe FIU has about 35,000 students enrolled and these numbers, while massive in size, shows how eager young people are to further their education, if they are given the chance.
Education also plays a vital civic function because many of our new residents are not familiar with the laws, morals and values of our country and depending on where they have come from, the concept of democracy and the nation being a republic could be a vary nuanced and misunderstood concept, particularly if they have come from a country run by a dictator or despot. You see how this assimilation process evolves over the years when new U.S. Citizens are sworn in, the look in their eyes and the pride they feel is almost palpable, and education plays a key role in that process and must be nurtured. If we are to be the community that competes on a global basis with huge nations like China and India, where once you deal with any political polemics as China did in the 1980s, and then focused on the rebuilding of the Middle Kingdom’s economy. These two ancient countries and cultures all value the role of family, education, and making money and the United States has never had to deal with these two nations on the world trade and technological scene until more recently. But both countries are here to stay and we must through our own population’s education be capable of having a technological lead that is not only vital to our local community but the nation as a whole. If we are not to be surpassed in the coming decades, and that education gap cannot happen if we are to ensure our nation not being eclipsed by these rapidly developing nations. >>> For more information about the two public institutions go to http://www.mdc.edu/main/ and http://www.fiu.edu/
>>> PAST WDR: Jan. 2006: Watchdog Report income from county in 2005 surges to $2,650, up from $2,000 but five papers that did not exist got $20,000 in the past
Miami-Dade County, along with state and federal authorities have spent over $50 million fighting public corruption over the last five-years. Further, the county over the years has given $20,000 to five local periodical newspapers that did not exist states a 2003 county audit but when it comes to the Watchdog Report. My income in 2005 surged to $2,650.00 less $50.00 for a three-page public records request, which I paid to the county. In 2004, that county contribution number was $2,000. I mention this because I am at the county almost everyday covering different meetings and I find it ironic how often commissioners and the administration complain about press coverage and many times, I am it. Further, the majority of county commissioners read the Watchdog Report, many times on Sunday night and they actually refer to the fact that I was at a meeting during commission meetings or reported on something.
Seijas recently verbally took my head off because I referred to the third floor commission conference room in the county governmental center as “obscure.” She said it was easy to get to, was right next to the escalator, and using the term made it seem like she was trying to elude the public. Seijas has the distinction of being the first elected leader to contribute $500 to the Watchdog Report in Oct. 2000 but she changed her mind after I wrote an editorial critical of her friend Commissioner Barbara Carey-Shuler and had her internet and computers taken out of her office.
I bring this up because everyone wants the truth and what I have tried to do is give coverage of these issues and quote people directly off a tape many times and if I make an error. I have tried to quickly correct any error over the last seven years but it has been surprising how little community financial support I have gotten to the point it is now a community embarrassment to the rest of the nation that has watched the Watchdog Report evolve over the years. I hope all these people that want the truth in the news will consider supporting my efforts as the report’s seventh anniversary comes closer. I still have rent and food to pay for and frankly the lack of support of my endeavors shows while many may talk the talk of the need for clean and informed government – You are not being sincere and are a personal disappointment to me, as well not saving millions in public dollars through being more informed about all aspects of your other public institutions.
>>> Publisher’s Statement on the mission of the Watchdog Report and the special people and organizations that make it possible: Government Subscribers/Corporate Subscribers/Sustaining Sponsors/Supporting Sponsors
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The Watchdog Report covers a few of the meetings attended weekly. It remains my belief that an informed public will make better decisions. Therefore, I go to meetings, make the presence of an informed citizen known, and bring the information to you. The Watchdog Report is in the fourth year of publication and it has been an honor to be able to send this information to you. It is sent to readers in Miami-Dade, Florida, the U.S. and the world. The Watchdog Report is sent to thousands free and while readers have been prodded to subscribe the results have been mixed. Over 250 reports and Extra’s have been sent since May 5, 2000 and over one million words have been written on our community’s governments and events. The report is an original work based on information gathered at public meetings, interviews and from documents in the public domain.
LETTER POLICY
I welcome letters via e-mail, fax, or snail mail. Letters may be edited for length or clarity and must refer to material published in the Watchdog Report. Please see address and contact information. Please send any additions and corrections by e-mail, fax or snail mail. All corrections will be published in the next Watchdog Report. If you or your organization would like to publish the contents of this newsletter, please contact me. Please send your request to watchdogreport1@earthlink.net
Daniel A. Ricker
Publisher & Editor
Watchdog Report
Est. 05.05.00
Copyright © of original material, 2009, Daniel A. Ricker
>>> Watchdog Report is expanding as a new service and this content is now available to other news media, no longer exclusive to The Miami Herald
The Watchdog Report is no longer exclusively with The Miami Herald, and excluding the one story a week that is printed in the paper on Monday in the Metro & State section by me. The rest of the 20 or so news stories weekly sent out Sunday in the Watchdog Report are now available to television stations web pages, and all the newspapers and other media in South Florida if the publishers have an interest to run part or all of the stories. Further, in 2000, I used to have some paper’s running the report in the Spanish press, that option is available again, and publishers should contact me. The news content will not be free, but you can pick and chose the stories of interest, edit them if necessary but you must still keep the general story intact. If you are a news outlet and would like to learn more about, the Watchdog Report and this offer contact me at watchdogreport1@earthlink.net for further information.
>>> Here is what past newspapers have written about the Watchdog Report publisher including a survey and regional study done by the U. North Carolina at Chapel Hill on the media in the southeast United States.
>>> The Miami Herald and Orlando Sentinel & Sun-Sentinel articles on the Watchdog Report publisher over the years.
Published on September 9, 1999, Page 1EA, Miami Herald, The (FL)
CITIZEN ADVOCATE’ KEEPS TABS ON POLITICIANS
Published on January 3, 2000, Page 1B, Miami Herald, The (FL)
MIAMI-DADE WATCHDOG WILL BE MISSED
Published on January 20, 2003, Page 1E, Orlando Sentinel, PAPERWORK TIGER, Miami’s citizen watchdog piles up government files in his quest to keep the “little people” informed.
>>>Watchdog Report publisher named ‘Best Citizen’ 2003 by the Miami New Times —The publisher would like to thank the weekly alternative paper Miami New Times for bestowing their 2003 Best of Miami, ‘Best Citizen’ award to me and I am honored. Thank you. To read the full story go to http://www.miaminewtimes.com/issues/2003-05-15/citylife2.html/1/index.html
From the spring of 2003: U. North Carolina, Chapel Hill: Southeast U.S. Media Report lists Watchdog Report publisher as leading Florida commentator >>> Selected excerpts from the report on Florida’s media sources
Those who do read the newspaper in Florida have a bevy of options for state government and political coverage. The dominant newspapers in the state are Knight-Ridder’s The Miami Herald (Acquired by The McClatchy Company in 2006) and the Poynter Institute’s St. Petersburg Times. Both papers endorsed Gore in 2000 but split on the 2002 gubernatorial race, with the Herald endorsing Republican incumbent Jeb Bush and the Times backing Democratic challenger Bill McBride.
Daniel Ricker of The Miami Herald also writes an influential column as well as an email newsletter called the Watchdog Report that goes out to more than 100,000 subscribers. FEBRUARY 2004 – Florida: Columnists in Abundance —ERIC GAUTSCHI, graduate student, School of Journalism & Mass Communication, UNC-Chapel Hill – D) LEADING COMMENTATORS – Resource Commentator Organization Type Web site –Steve Bousquet St. Petersburg Times Column www.sptimes.com/columns/bousquet.shtml -“First Friday” WPBT TV (Miami) TV Show www.channel2.org/firstfriday/issues.html –Lucy Morgan St. Petersburg Times Column www.sptimes.com/columns/morgan.shtml –Daniel Ricker Miami Herald/Watchdog Report Newsletter –www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/news/columnists/dan_ricker/ >>> Readers who would like to read the complete University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill Southeast United States Media Report go to view the complete report or download all the data used in this study. >>> Watchdog Report Editor’s note to the NCU/CH study: The subscriber number referenced is incorrect and applies to readership. The Southern Media Landscape (PDF) Daniel Ricker. Miami Herald/Watchdog Report Newsletter. www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald … circulation, 134,269. Dan Hoover leads the. publication’s ..www.unc.edu/~davismt/SouthNow.pdf – 574k – View as html
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