| It is with great sadness that Norm Kent, attorney and friend of the popular South Florida radio icon, Neil Rogers, announces his passing, at 9:45 a.m. today, December 24, 2010. Neil, 68, born on November 5, 1942, in New York State, expired from congestive heart failure at the Vitas Hospice in Florida Medical Center in Broward County, Florida. There is a tribute to Neil Rogers published in this week’s South Florida Gay News. http://www.southfloridagaynews.com/editorial/publishers-editorial/2768-neil-rogers-the-gay-activist-who-wasnt.html Announcements for a memorial service for Mr. Rogers will be made on Monday morning. | ||
| www.southfloridagaynews.com |
NEIL ROGERS PASSES AWAY
DANIA BEACH FAVORS BSO FIRE MERGER
The Dania Beach City Commission voted Tuesday night (12/21/10) to move forward with a plan to merge the city’s fire department with the Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue.
In a five-to-nothing vote Commissioners approved a resolution directing the city manager to execute an agreement between the City of Dania Beach and the Broward Sheriff’s Office to provide fire rescue and emergency medical services no later than January 29, 2011.
The Dania Beach Fire Department is comprised of 68 personnel who will all join the BSO at pay levels equal to their city salaries. The annual cost of the agreement will be $9,242,943, representing a full year savings to the city of $871,164. Combined with other expense reductions the city’s savings are projected to exceed $1.9 million.
“This agreement really underscores our commitment to provide improved service through regionalization while effectively reducing duplication,” Sheriff Al Lamberti said.
The Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue was created in October of 2003 when BSO assumed operational and administrative responsibilities for the Broward County Fire Department. BSO FRD consists of over 600 fire rescue professionals encompassing five battalions in 15 locations. Dania Beach will join the cities of Weston, Southwest Ranches, Pembroke Park, West Park, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Cooper City, Lauderdale Lakes, Sea Ranches, Port Everglades, the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and the unincorporated areas which are currently served by BSO’s fire fighters and paramedics.
Message From President Obama on ending DADT
Moments ago, the Senate voted to end "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."
When that bill reaches my desk, I will sign it, and this discriminatory law will be repealed.
Gay and lesbian service members -- brave Americans who enable our freedoms -- will no longer have to hide who they are.
The fight for civil rights, a struggle that continues, will no longer include this one.
This victory belongs to you. Without your commitment, the promise I made as a candidate would have remained just that.
Instead, you helped prove again that no one should underestimate this movement. Every phone call to a senator on the fence, every letter to the editor in a local paper, and every message in a congressional inbox makes it clear to those who would stand in the way of justice: We will not quit.
This victory also belongs to Senator Harry Reid, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and our many allies in Congress who refused to let politics get in the way of what was right.
Like you, they never gave up, and I want them to know how grateful we are for that commitment.
Will you join me in thanking them by adding your name to Organizing for America's letter?
I will make sure these messages are delivered -- you can also add a comment about what the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" means to you.
As Commander in Chief, I fought to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" because it weakens our national security and military readiness. It violates the fundamental American principles of equality and fairness.
But this victory is also personal.
I will never know what it feels like to be discriminated against because of my sexual orientation.
But I know my story would not be possible without the sacrifice and struggle of those who came before me -- many I will never meet, and can never thank.
I know this repeal is a crucial step for civil rights, and that it strengthens our military and national security. I know it is the right thing to do.
But the rightness of our cause does not guarantee success, and today, celebration of this historic step forward is tempered by the defeat of another -- the DREAM Act. I am incredibly disappointed that a minority of senators refused to move forward on this important, commonsense reform that most Americans understand is the right thing for our country. On this issue, our work must continue.
Today, I'm proud that we took these fights on.
Please join me in thanking those in Congress who helped make "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" repeal possible:
http://my.barackobama.com/Repealed
Thank you,
Barack
When that bill reaches my desk, I will sign it, and this discriminatory law will be repealed.
Gay and lesbian service members -- brave Americans who enable our freedoms -- will no longer have to hide who they are.
The fight for civil rights, a struggle that continues, will no longer include this one.
This victory belongs to you. Without your commitment, the promise I made as a candidate would have remained just that.
Instead, you helped prove again that no one should underestimate this movement. Every phone call to a senator on the fence, every letter to the editor in a local paper, and every message in a congressional inbox makes it clear to those who would stand in the way of justice: We will not quit.
This victory also belongs to Senator Harry Reid, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and our many allies in Congress who refused to let politics get in the way of what was right.
Like you, they never gave up, and I want them to know how grateful we are for that commitment.
Will you join me in thanking them by adding your name to Organizing for America's letter?
I will make sure these messages are delivered -- you can also add a comment about what the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" means to you.
As Commander in Chief, I fought to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" because it weakens our national security and military readiness. It violates the fundamental American principles of equality and fairness.
But this victory is also personal.
I will never know what it feels like to be discriminated against because of my sexual orientation.
But I know my story would not be possible without the sacrifice and struggle of those who came before me -- many I will never meet, and can never thank.
I know this repeal is a crucial step for civil rights, and that it strengthens our military and national security. I know it is the right thing to do.
But the rightness of our cause does not guarantee success, and today, celebration of this historic step forward is tempered by the defeat of another -- the DREAM Act. I am incredibly disappointed that a minority of senators refused to move forward on this important, commonsense reform that most Americans understand is the right thing for our country. On this issue, our work must continue.
Today, I'm proud that we took these fights on.
Please join me in thanking those in Congress who helped make "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" repeal possible:
http://my.barackobama.com/Repealed
Thank you,
Barack
STATEMENT OF RON MILLS, PRESIDENT OF DOLPHIN DEMOCRATS, ON THE PASSAGE OF DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL REPEAL
STATEMENT OF RON MILLS, PRESIDENT OF DOLPHIN DEMOCRATS,
ON THE PASSAGE OF DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL REPEAL
Ron Mills, president of the Dolphin Democrats, Florida’s oldest and largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Democratic club, issued the following statement on the passage of legislation to repeal the ban on openly-gay members serving in the military:
“Our nation was founded on the concept of equality for all, and yet equality for gay and lesbian Americans is still a work in progress. Today, with the US Senate’s passage of legislation to repeal Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, those gay and lesbian Americans who wish to serve their country without hiding their true identities are one step closer to equality.
“All 10 of Florida’s congressional Democrats in the House voted to repeal the ban earlier this week, joined by Republicans Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Lincoln Diaz-Balart. We thank them for recognizing that Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell had to go. We also thank Senator Bill Nelson for his vote against the ban.
“The Dolphin Democrats have been out front in fighting for repeal, working with the Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus and National Stonewall Democrats. But this should not be seen as a partisan victory – rather, it is a victory shared by all Americans that underscores our true values.
“There are still many more key pieces of legislation lingering in Washington guaranteeing the LGBT community is ensured equality, but today we will celebrate the repeal of the discriminatory ban on openly gay men and women serving in the military. It’s a wonderful holiday gift for all Americans.”
Ron Mills
President, Dolphin Democrats
Conservationist of the Year
Budweiser is holding an online vote for “Conservationist of the Year”, and one of the four finalists is Conservation Commissioner Ron Bergeron.
As a Florida Wildlife Conservation Commissioner, Ron has fought to bring attention to Florida’s most pressing environmentalist concerns. He is the founder of savetheglades.org and the Bergeron Everglades History and Cultural Museum, which educates the public on the importance of saving our precious Everglades.
We urge you to go to this link and vote for Ron. Budweiser has pledged to donate $50,000 to the winner’s cause of choice, and I want to see that money put to good use here in Florida.
So please, vote now! All votes must be cast by this Friday, December 17th.
Broward County - Cold Weather Advisory Issued for Sunday through Tuesday Morning
The National Weather Service forecasts low temperatures, including wind chill, in the high 30s to mid-40s for Sunday, December 12, through Tuesday morning, December 14, for Broward County. |
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Radio legend Neil Rogers Very Ill
legend Neil Rogers; Tom Jicha reports that Rogers, who suffered a recent stroke and heart attack, is not having open-heart surgery and has been moved into hospice care. Rogers was the veritable voice of South Florida for more than 20 years, and he did it with his own brand of humor and profane (and FCC-defying) dignity. Rogers lives in Plantation Acres, spent summers in Toronto, and as a proponent of weed liked to vacation in Amsterdam. Rogers, especially compared to the Lords Of Loud who dominate the airwaves today, really was a radio god.
Important Message from Sheriff Al Lamberti
We may experience record breaking cold weather during the next few days. I want to make sure you and your family is safe. If you use an electric space heater, keep it at least 3 feet away from anything flammable. Children must be supervised if a space heater is in use. Do not use stoves or ovens to heat your home and NEVER use a BBQ grill inside your home. Stay safe, stay warm!
Sheriff Al Lamberti
Sheriff Al Lamberti
World AIDS Day 2010
On Wednesday, December 1, 2010, World AIDS Day, close to 1,000 people will descend on Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors to remember those we have lost to HIV/AIDS, give hope to those currently living with the disease worldwide, and for a look towards the future.
The "Our Memories Burn Bright" candlelight walk and rally is not a fundraiser, nor is it affiliated with any other events that may take place that same evening.
Beginning three years ago, the "Our Memories Burn Bright" candlelight vigil and rally has steadily increased in size each year with last year having over 950 participants. This year the event is sponsored and underwritten by Broward House, The Pride Factory, Broward Health Department, Walgreens, Geovax Pharmaceuticals and Commcare Pharmacy.
"The response so far this year leads us to believe the event will be even larger than in years past," said Terry DeCarlo, the event's producer and public relations and marketing director for Broward House. "We put out a blanket email this year asking for community partners to join us in presenting the event and the response has been overwhelming with some of the most concerned and most active Fort Lauderdale community organizations, including: The Pride Center, Tuesday's Angels, The SMART Ride, Sunserve, The Pals Project, The MProject, The Pet Project, The AIDS memorial quilt, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Women In Networking, Broward Health Department, Fusion, Minority Development & Empowerment, Children's Diagnostic and Treatment Center, SMen, The Sunshine Cathedral and The Church of the Holy Spirit Song. Supportive businesses, include Bill's Filling Station, Georgie's Alibi, Hotspots Magazine, Latino Boys Magazine, the Rainbow Business Coalition, Mark's List, Mark's Magazine, South Florida Gay News, the Agenda Newspaper, the City of Wilton Manors, the City of Oakland Park, the Broward Sheriff's Office, Sidelines Sports Bar, Chic Optique and Island City Health and Fitness all answered the call. In the past too, we have had problems with so many people showing up to the rally that people could not hear or see what was happening; we have resolved that problem this year by bringing in a large stage donated by the City of Oakland Park and having a professional light and sound system."
Beginning at 7:30 pm the candlelight procession will step off from Hagen Park (2020 Wilton Drive, behind Wilton Manors City Hall) and proceed east on Wilton Drive ending in the parking lot of the Shoppes of Wilton Manors (Georgie's Alibi) where a celebration of life will be held; the event should end at approximately 9:00 pm. For more information on the event or on Broward House, please visit BrowardHouse.org
The "Our Memories Burn Bright" candlelight walk and rally is not a fundraiser, nor is it affiliated with any other events that may take place that same evening.
Source: HotSpots Magazine
The new Facebook Messenging/Email System
Here's the Associated Press Report on the new Facebook Messenging/Email System.
Facebook is betting that one day soon, we'll all be acting like young students -- more texting and instant-messaging, at the expense of e-mail.
Facebook is betting that one day soon, we'll all be acting like young students -- more texting and instant-messaging, at the expense of e-mail.
Facebook unveiled a new messaging system Monday, and while CEO didn't go as far as declaring e-mail dead, he clearly sees the four-decade-old technology being eclipsed by more real-time ways of communicating."We don't think a modern messaging system is going to be e-mail," Zuckerberg said.
Right now, Facebook's Messages section is a lot like an e-mail inbox. The overhauled version, which will be rolled out to users by invitation in coming months, brings in cell phone texts, IM chats and e-mails from non-Facebook accounts.
Right now, Facebook's Messages section is a lot like an e-mail inbox. The overhauled version, which will be rolled out to users by invitation in coming months, brings in cell phone texts, IM chats and e-mails from non-Facebook accounts.
All the messages stack up in one inbox, and they're organized by the person sending them rather than the type of technology they use. For those who want one, Facebook will hand out facebook.com e-mail addresses -- mostly to make it easier to communicate with people who aren't on Facebook.
"If we do a good job, some people will say this is the way that the future will work," Zuckerberg said.
By making e-mail part of its communications hub, Facebook escalates its duel with Internet search leader , which shook up online communications 6½ years ago with its Gmail service. Google has said it will roll out more social networking features to counter Facebook's growing popularity, and within Gmail it already lets people chat, e-mail and make phone calls.
What Facebook has that Gmail and others don't have, however, is people's real identities, plus a map of their real-life relationships and online interactions -- something Facebook likes to refer to as the "social graph."
Facebook will use what it knows of these relationships to build a social inbox that not only filters out spam but messages it deems less important from strangers or overly chatty friends, and impersonal messages such as the phone bill. Those lower-priority messages will be tossed in a separate folder labeled "Other." Users can also tell Facebook to automatically block messages that don't come from friends.
To communicate with a friend, a Facebook user would click on the friend's name rather than hunt for a phone number or an e-mail address. If that friend prefers to get text messages, that's how the message will be seen. If the friend likes e-mail, e-mail it will be.
The messaging system, however, isn't e-mail. It doesn't use subject lines or "Cc" fields.
Facebook says it will store every missive sent between two people for eternity, unless they choose to delete it; the company likens it to this generation's equivalent of a box filled with years of love letters.
Zuckerberg dismissed notions that the Facebook service, code-named "Project Titan," is a "Gmail killer," as portrayed in the media. At the same time, he said he thinks more people will forgo lengthy e-mail conversations in favor of shorter, more immediate chats.
That could lessen the need for people to use communications tools other than Facebook, said Altimeter Group analyst Charlene Li.
"It may not be a Gmail killer, but it could be nibbler," she predicted.
Google CEO welcomed Facebook's expanded role in online communications. "More competition is always good because competition makes the market larger," Schmidt said in a meeting with reporters at the Web 2.0 technology summit. "We are all well served by having everybody online."
Facebook sees its messaging service as a way to deepen its connection with the more than 500 million users of its network. If it can persuade its vast audience to become faithful users of its e-mail service, Facebook conceivably will have more opportunities to sell advertising that caters to their likes and dislikes.
That ambition also could heighten the privacy issues surrounding Facebook as it becomes more deeply ingrained in people's lives and its computers become a treasure trove of personal information.
Privacy, to be sure, has been a thorn in 6-year-old Facebook's side since it was born in Zuckerberg's Harvard dorm room.
Jeff Chester, executive director of the Center for Digital Democracy, a privacy watchdog group, called Facebook's move into e-mail "deeply disturbing." He said that under the guise of giving users a new utility, the company "opens up another door that allows it to closely track how their members communicate."
Privacy concerns aside, Wedbush Morgan analyst Lou Kerner, who follows social media, sees the feature expanding the site's appeal.
"It's going to bring some of the remaining holdouts to the Facebook platform," Kerner said.
"If we do a good job, some people will say this is the way that the future will work," Zuckerberg said.
By making e-mail part of its communications hub, Facebook escalates its duel with Internet search leader , which shook up online communications 6½ years ago with its Gmail service. Google has said it will roll out more social networking features to counter Facebook's growing popularity, and within Gmail it already lets people chat, e-mail and make phone calls.
What Facebook has that Gmail and others don't have, however, is people's real identities, plus a map of their real-life relationships and online interactions -- something Facebook likes to refer to as the "social graph."
Facebook will use what it knows of these relationships to build a social inbox that not only filters out spam but messages it deems less important from strangers or overly chatty friends, and impersonal messages such as the phone bill. Those lower-priority messages will be tossed in a separate folder labeled "Other." Users can also tell Facebook to automatically block messages that don't come from friends.
To communicate with a friend, a Facebook user would click on the friend's name rather than hunt for a phone number or an e-mail address. If that friend prefers to get text messages, that's how the message will be seen. If the friend likes e-mail, e-mail it will be.
The messaging system, however, isn't e-mail. It doesn't use subject lines or "Cc" fields.
Facebook says it will store every missive sent between two people for eternity, unless they choose to delete it; the company likens it to this generation's equivalent of a box filled with years of love letters.
Zuckerberg dismissed notions that the Facebook service, code-named "Project Titan," is a "Gmail killer," as portrayed in the media. At the same time, he said he thinks more people will forgo lengthy e-mail conversations in favor of shorter, more immediate chats.
That could lessen the need for people to use communications tools other than Facebook, said Altimeter Group analyst Charlene Li.
"It may not be a Gmail killer, but it could be nibbler," she predicted.
Google CEO welcomed Facebook's expanded role in online communications. "More competition is always good because competition makes the market larger," Schmidt said in a meeting with reporters at the Web 2.0 technology summit. "We are all well served by having everybody online."
Facebook sees its messaging service as a way to deepen its connection with the more than 500 million users of its network. If it can persuade its vast audience to become faithful users of its e-mail service, Facebook conceivably will have more opportunities to sell advertising that caters to their likes and dislikes.
That ambition also could heighten the privacy issues surrounding Facebook as it becomes more deeply ingrained in people's lives and its computers become a treasure trove of personal information.
Privacy, to be sure, has been a thorn in 6-year-old Facebook's side since it was born in Zuckerberg's Harvard dorm room.
Jeff Chester, executive director of the Center for Digital Democracy, a privacy watchdog group, called Facebook's move into e-mail "deeply disturbing." He said that under the guise of giving users a new utility, the company "opens up another door that allows it to closely track how their members communicate."
Privacy concerns aside, Wedbush Morgan analyst Lou Kerner, who follows social media, sees the feature expanding the site's appeal.
"It's going to bring some of the remaining holdouts to the Facebook platform," Kerner said.
Facebook has scheduled a huge announcement for tomorrow
Facebook has scheduled a huge announcement for tomorrow.
It is expected to announced a new email program that would immediately CRUSH gmail and hotmail with number of users.
PLUS...
If you can read your email while you are on Facebook, it's going to render old fashioned email obsolete.
Now when you add this to the fact that Microsoft and Facebook are working together on search, it leads to just one simple conclusion.
Google is about to get a serious thrashing.
So tomorrow is going to be a huge day.
FL Incoming Teabaggers Cells and emails
Florida Tea Party Freshmen
FL-02 Steve Southerland - (850) 258-9082 - steve@southerlandforcongress.com
FL-05 Richard Nugent - (352) 428-0924 - Richard_Nugent1@msn.com
FL-08 Daniel Webster - (407) 947-5376 - senator_webster@yahoo.com
FL-12 Dennis Ross - (863) 255-1048 - Dross71803@aol.com
FL-22 Allen West - (954) 288-6934 - gowest@allenwestforcongress.com
FL-24 Sandy Adams - (321) 303-9214 - sadams4flhr33@aol.com
FL-25 David Rivera - (786) 258-2222 - Rivera2004@comcast.net
Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz endorses Julie Carson
Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz endorses Wilton Manors Former Commissioner Julie Carson in the race for Wilton Manors Commission.
“I am honored to receive Debbie's endorsement,” Carson said. “Debbie’s commitment to Florida and her personal attention to residents of Wilton Manors are values that I will bring to our Island City community.”
Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz joins Broward PBA and FOP, Equa
lity Florida PAC , Oakland Park Vice Mayor Suzanne Boisvenue , State Rep. Gwyn Clarke-Reed, Broward Property Appraiser Lori Parrish, Broward Mayor Ken Keechl, Coral Springs Commissioner Roy Gold, Broward "Gay Straight Alliance," and the Dolphin Democrats in endorsing Julie Carson. Wilton Manors Mayor Gary Resnick Appointed to the Florida League of Cities “Keys to the Cities Task Force
Elected and Appointed Officials from Pensacola to Key West gathered in Fort Lauderdale to create a working group to offer their expertise to the anticipated transition teams to be appointed by the incoming Governor, Cabinet members, and the new Leadership of the State Senate and House of Representatives; to be seated after the November 2nd election.
Former State Representative and current Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jack Seiler was appointed to chair the “Keys to the Cities Task Force” and Wilton Manors Mayor Gary Resnick was chosen to be a member representing our community.
Mayor Resnick stated; “ I'm honored to be appointed to this task force. The vast majority of Florida residents live within City boundaries and rely on the municipal services to support, protect and grow their businesses, homes and places of recreation. Cities are crucial to Florida’s economy and the Governor’s Office and the Legislative Leadership recognize the need to be partners with cities to ensure the best for Florida’s future."
The Task Force will next meet in Orlando in November.
Broward County Sheriff, Al Lamberti encourages everyone in Broward County to vote
Broward County Sheriff, Al Lamberti encourages everyone in Broward County to vote.
You can vote early at these EARLY VOTE LOCATIONS
If you have a mail in ballot, please, get it in the mail today or bring it with you to a early vote center by Saturday October 30th at 7pm, or bring it with you to the polls on November 2nd
If you have any questions call
Brenda Snipes at
Phone: 954-357-7050 Fax: 954-357-7070 elections@browardsoe.org
|
| Voter Registration Information |
| General Contact 954-357-7050 Mary Hall registration@browardsoe.org |
| Name and Address Change Information |
| General Contact 954-357-7050 Mary Hall registration@browardsoe.org |
| Absentee Ballot Request Information |
| General Contact 954-357-7055 Mary Hall absenteeballot@browardsoe.org |
| Pollworker and VST Election Day Operations Information |
| General Contact 954-459-9911 Pat Nesbit pollworker@browardsoe.org |
| Voter Education Information |
| Gino Herring votereducation@browardsoe.org |
| Candidate Qualifying Information |
| Mary Cooney candidatesupport@browardsoe.org |
| Supervisor of Elections Operations |
| Fred Bellis opsupport@browardsoe.org |
| Technical Support |
| Jorge Nunez |
Tips from BSO for a safe Halloween
Keep your Halloween celebrations hauntingly happy with these safety tips from the Broward Sheriff's Office:
FOR DRIVERS:- Stay alert and don’t exceed the posted speed limit. Be especially cautious in residential neighborhoods.
- Watch for children darting out from between parked cars or hurricane debris piled in swales and at the road's edge. Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
- Remember that children may be dressed in dark clothing; driving slowly and staying alert reduces the risk of an accident.
- Ensure an adult accompanies children as they trick-or-treat.
- Avoid areas where electricity has not been restored. Select neighborhoods where power is evident and streetlights are on.
- Plan and discuss the route children will take, and their return time, and make sure they stick to it.
- Make younger children stay in familiar areas.
- Have children carry flashlights or glo-sticks for easier visibility.
- Ensure children stop only at houses that are well-lit, and teach them NEVER to enter the home of a stranger.
- Insist that treats be brought home for inspection before anything is eaten. Don't let children eat anything that is unwrapped or seems unusual. When in doubt, throw it out.
- Before eating any fruit, wash it and slice it into small pieces.
- Pin a slip of paper to the costumes of younger children listing the child’s name, address and telephone number in the event the child is separated from the group with which they are traveling.
- Turn on your home's exterior lights and remove any objects from your walkway that may be a hazard to trick-or-treaters. Place jack-o-lanterns out-of-reach so children won't burn themselves or their costumes. Tell your neighbors to do the same.
- If possible, send children trick-or-treating before dark.
- Be aware of any suspicious activity. Report any concerns to BSO or your local police agency.
- Only fire-retardant materials should be used for costumes. Use light-colored materials and strips of reflective tape to make children visible.
- Avoid long costumes that may cause the child to trip (falls are the leading cause of injuries on Halloween).
- Use facial makeup instead of masks that can hinder a child’s vision.
- Avoid using simulated knives, guns, or swords. If these props are used, ensure they are soft and flexible to prevent injury.
- Walk, don’t run from house to house. Use streets, sidewalks and driveways to enter and leave houses.
- Walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic if there are no sidewalks.
- Cross the streets at crosswalks or at corners, never in the middle of the street.
- Only accept candy that is wrapped or packaged.
- Wait until you get home to sort, check and eat your treats.
- Never enter the home of a stranger. If a stranger insists you come inside, leave immediately and tell a parent, a police officer or other trusted adult.
- Be smart. Don't play pranks that can hurt other people or property. If you see someone doing something they shouldn't, tell an adult immediately.
Q: Which costume is dangerous?
A: They all are!
1. The pirate is carrying a sharp object that could cause injury to himself or others. He also has one eye covered that reduces his ability to see clearly.
2. The vampire is wearing a long cape that could lead to a fall…and a serious injury. Falls are the leading cause of injuries during trick-or treating.
3. The ghost can’t see well because his head is covered, and the eyeholes in the costume restrict his ability to see left and right.
BSO wants you have a happy Halloween…remember our safety tips!
Broward County Sheriff, Al Lamberti endorses Kelly Skidmore For Senate
There are many issues facing Floridians, but here in Senate District 25, there are a few issues that impact our quality of life directly. I am proud to have worked with two of my Republican colleagues, Rep. Marcelo Llorente and Rep. Curt Kelly, to sponsor legislation that addressed the proliferation of pain clinics in South Florida. We built a huge coalition, working with local organizations, such as, the Broward County United Way Substance Abuse Task Force, the Palm Beach County NOPE Task Force, the Florida Medical Association and both the Palm Beach and Broward County Sheriff's offices to name a few.
"Representative Skidmore has been a great friend of law enforcement. She supported our priority issues and was one of the main sponsors of the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program that will begin to reign in the out-of-control pain clinics in Broward County. She has also been an outspoken advocate of banning texting while driving and protecting our vulnerable homeless population from vicious attacks."
-Broward County Sheriff, Al Lamberti
Not only did Ellyn Bogdanoff vote against all three priorities of Sheriff Lamberti, she lobbied Governor Crist to veto the pain clinic legislation and takes credit for single-handedly killing the ban on texting while driving.
South Florida Deserves Better - Vote Kelly Skidmore for State Senate
How Dems Can Keep Control
By:
Greenberg and Carville
In their Saturday New York Times op-ed "Can Democrats Still Win?" TDS Co-Editor Stanley B. Greenberg and James Carville, Bill Clinton's campaign manager, take on the common political wisdom that says a Republican takeover of congress is a done deal.
The authors, both founders of Democracy Corps, begin with a discussion of the 1998 midterm elections, noting predictions that the Dems were doomed in that election, including Speaker Gingrich's boast that GOP gains could exceed the landslide of 1994. Greenberg and Carville note that their early polling that year affirmed a bad outcome for Dems, but once the impeachment battle got underway, their subsequent polling indicated that voters were indeed ready to move-on, to end impeachment and have congress focus on more substantive issues that affected the daily lives of Americans..
Enough Democratic candidates got the message and began to focus their campaigns on the findings of the Greenberg/Carville polling, while Republicans doubled down on the scandal-mongering in their ads. The result, as the authors write:
Democrats surprised everyone: no net losses in the Senate and a net gain of five seats in the House -- the best showing for the incumbent president's party in a midterm election since 1934. Newt Gingrich resigned.
Greenberg and Carville concede that it's a very tough environment for Dems:
With the 2010 midterm elections just over a week away, Democrats find themselves in a similarly perilous situation. There are fears that Democrats could lose as many as 50 House seats; the Senate could go either way. A survey last week by our polling group, Democracy Corps, had Democrats down five points in the House ballot. Add to this early voting, heavy campaign spending by outside corporate groups, high unemployment and the general feeling that the country is on the wrong track, and it is hard to imagine that Nov. 2 will be a good day for Democrats.
But even in this context there are a couple of factors Dems can leverage:
...In our latest national poll, we found that the Republican Party and the Republicans in Congress are as unpopular as the Democrats -- unusual for a party riding a wave of support. With Republican candidates like Sharron Angle, Joe Miller, Christine O'Donnell, Rand Paul and Carl Paladino dominating the spotlight, Republicans find themselves no more appealing to voters now than they were in 2008.In addition, there are signs that voters are still open to hearing from Democrats. An NPR poll that surveys likely voters in key House districts found this month that a Democratic message focused on the middle class and American jobs won out over a Republican message of deficit reduction and wasteful spending. (Disclosure: Greenberg Quinlan Rosner helped conduct this survey.) True, voters are not particularly moved by Democratic messages about Republican extremism or the policies that produced the recession. But they are open to hearing about how to repair the economy and put Americans back to work. This is surprising, because voters normally tune out the party they want to punish at the polls.
Greenberg and Carville conclude that "...based on our experiences leading up to the last supposed Democratic debacle, candidates may have more control over their destinies than they think." Coming from the team that advised the only Democrat since FDR to win two consecutive Presidential elections -- as well as advocated the strategy that helped Dems hold the line in '98 midterms -- their advice merits serious consideration from Democratic candidates and campaigns.
BROWARD COMMISSIONERS REACH AGREEMENT ON FY 2011 BUDGET
The Broward County Board of County Commissioners has reached an agreement and finalized the Fiscal Year 2011 budget. The property tax millage rate is set at 5.553.
For the majority of Broward County homeowners (65%) that means a reduction in the county portion of the property tax bill of approximately $147. The average homeowner with the Save Our Home Differential (35%) will see an increase in the county portion of their property tax bill of about $40 total for the year. Since 2007 Broward Commissioners have made more than $220 million in budget cuts. For more than a decade the property tax millage rate in Broward County has been reduced or remained the same.
Broward County Commissioner Lois Wexler changed her vote and broke the deadlock that had stalled passage of the FY 2011 budget, but only after building consensus for additional budget cuts that she had brought forward totaling just under $6 million. Commissioners were previously deadlocked with a 4-4 vote that prevented the final passage of a budget.
The reductions included an additional cut of 4% from the Broward County Commission’s budget, bringing the total cuts in the Commission budget to 9.5%. Reductions were also made in funding for hospital district primary health contracts and health department contracts. Children’s services for mental health care contracts were reduced. The additional cuts will also slow work to synchronize traffic signals and to install mast arms to harden traffic lights in the event of adverse weather such as a hurricane. The Broward County Historical Commission will be reorganized for additional savings. Altogether, Commissioners cut more than $85-million dollars from the property tax supported general fund budget.
“The responsible thing to do is to set a millage rate tonight and finalize a budget and that is what we did,” said Commissioner Wexler. “I proposed additional budget cuts that I thought would further reduce the millage rate, but not deeply harm all county agencies and services. We all have to share the pain.”
“It took compromise in order for the majority of Commissioners to reach an agreement as to how far we were willing to cut Broward County services and jobs. We have to realize that there are quality of life issues here,” said Commissioner Kristin Jacobs. “These cuts minimize the overall adverse impact on taxpayers and county services. The vast majority of homeowners will see a decrease in their county property taxes. Next year we know we face even more economic challenges.”
Commissioners Lois Wexler, Kristin Jacobs, Ilene Lieberman, Albert C. Jones and Vice-Mayor Sue Gunzburger voted in favor of the finalized budget, which increased the property millage rate by approximately 3% from the year before. Mayor Ken Keechl voted against an increase in property taxes along with Commissioner John Rodstrom. Commissioner Stacy Ritter was not present, but had consistently voted against a millage rate increase throughout the budget process. The Broward County Charter mandates that at least five Commissioners must agree on a finalized budget.
One outstanding issue that remains an additional $3.5 million dollars to finance salary increases for some Broward County Sheriff’s deputies that a majority of Commissioners previously approved. (Mayor Ken Keechl and Commissioner John Rodstrom voted against those increases.) Broward County Administrator Bertha Henry agreed to work out those outstanding budget issues with the Broward Sheriff’s Department.
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Mayor Gary Resnick Endorsed By Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz
Wilton Manors Mayor Gary Resnick is pleased to announce that he has received the endorsement and support of Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz for his re-election. Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz stated: "Mayor Resnick has been a strong, effective advocate for Wilton Manors and is most equipped to represent the City's residents on federal issues and to obtain federal grants. I have worked personally with Gary for years to obtain federal grants for the new City Hall, road improvements, public safety, and most recently and importantly to increase police resources to fight crime." Mayor Resnick stated that he has made increasing resources to fight crime a top priority. "Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz has been working with me for months to obtain $218,000 in Homeland Security funds to increase the City's police resources to fight crime," stated Mayor Resnick.Mayor Gary Resnick is honored and humbled to represent the residents of Wilton Manors and to have the support of our members of Congress for his re-election. Gary asks for YOUR support and vote for his re-election.
Gary, has also Been endorsed by Congressman Alcee Hastings, State Senator Chris Smith, Equality Florida PAC, and recomended by the Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus and endorsed by The Dolphin Democrats.
Former Commissioner Jule Carson received endorsements from PBA & FOP
Former Commissioner Jule Carson received the endorsement of the Broward County Police Benevolent Association and Lodge 47 of the Fraternal Order of Police. Carson Said " I am so honored to have the support of these groups including the Men and Women of the Wilton Manors Police Department" The Wilton Manors election is on November 2nd , 2010.
PBA and FOP Joins, Equality Florida , Oakland Park Vice Mayor Suzzanne Boisvenue , State Rep. Gwyn Clarke-Reed, Broward Property Appraiser Lori Parrish, Broward County Mayor Ken Keechl, Coral Springs Commissioner Roy Gold and Broward "Gay Straight Alliance" in endorsing Julie Carson.
For more information visit: http://JulieCarson.net
Give a Damn
This month, as part of Cyndi Lauper's "Give A Damn" campaign, socially-conscious personalities Lily Tomlin, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Mae Whitman and Judith Light speak out against teenagers who commit suicide.
In September, there were four gay teen suicides as a result of school bullying:
Tyler ClementiFriends of the Rutgers University freshman who leaped to his death after his roommate allegedly secretly filmed him during a "sexual encounter" in his dorm room and posted it live on the Internet are mourning the loss of Tyler Clementi who they say was an outstanding violinist with a big heart.
Clementi posted a goodbye message on his Facebook page just moments before jumping off the George Washington Bridge last week, an act that left friends such as Christina Guentert in shock and heartbroken.
"I am just devastated that this happened, especially to such an amazing person," Guentert wrote to ABC News in an e-mail. "Tyler was a remarkable person in many ways; he was always kind, generous, sweet, and loyal."
"He always had a smile on his face, and would joke around with me during class even on bad days," wrote Guentert, who went to school with Clementi for seven years in Ridgewood, N.J. "Tyler came off as innocent and sweet; the kind of person that you could rely on and go to for anything."
- Seth Walsh, the Bakersfield, CA 13-year-old who hanged himself from a tree in his back yard after years of being bullied, died Tuesday afternoon after nine days on life support. Police investigators interviewed some of the young people who taunted Seth the day he hanged himself. “Several of the kids that we talked to broke down into tears,” Police Chief Jeff Kermode said. “They had never expected an outcome such as this.”
- Asher Brown, 13, an eighth-grader killed himself last week. He shot himself in the head after enduring what his mother and stepfather say was constant harassment from four other students at Hamilton Middle School in the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District in Houston Texas. Brown, his family said, was “bullied to death” — picked on for his small size, his religion and because he did not wear designer clothes and shoes. Kids also accused him of being gay, some of them performing mock gay acts on him in his physical education class, his mother and stepfather said.
- Billy (William) Lucas, 15, a student at Greensburg Community High School in Greensburg, IN, was found dead in a barn at his grandmother’s home Thursday evening — he had hanged himself. Friends say that he had been tormented for years. “He was threatened to get beat up every day,” friend and classmate Nick Hughes said. “Sometimes in classes, kids would act like they were going to punch him and stuff and push him. Some people at school called him names,” Hughes said, saying most of those names questioned Lucas’ sexual orientation.
This insanity must stop and all school districts must commit to making school safe for GLBT students.
Gay Bishop Eddie Long
In a mid-1990's sermon revealed on The Michelangelo Signorile Show, Long advocated the death penalty for gay people.
A 2007 Southern Poverty Law Center report described , Bishop Eddie Long, stands 
Is it not obvious that the gayest thing one can do is be an anti-gay zealot?
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