Peter Schorsch
Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics.
By Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel McAuliffe, Jim Rosica, and Drew Wilson.
First and foremost — Let me wish each reader a very happy Thanksgiving. All of us who work to produce Sunburn are enormously grateful for your readership.
Michelle and I are as ever grateful for … Ella Joyce Schorsch, Thanksgiving 2018.
Programming note — Sunburn will be off Thursday and Friday to celebrate the holiday with our families. We’ll see you bright and early next Monday.
— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —
—@MarcoRubio: Congratulations to @RepJoseOliva on being elected Speaker of the Florida House. I know he will lead that chamber admirably & do great things for Florida.
—@JebBush: Congratulations to @BillGalvano and @RepJoseOliva as they take the reins of the Florida Legislature. Together with @RonDeSantisFL, they will ensure Florida remains the best place in the world to raise a family, grow a business and pursue dreams. Our state is in great hands!
—@Fineout: @RonDeSantisFL is considering 3 people for Education Commissioner. He was interviewing Commissioner Pam Stewart today. 2 other finalists? Former State Sen. President Don Gaetz & former State Rep. Michael Bileca
—@SamanthaJGross: New attorney general-elect @voteashleymoody and commissioner-elect @nikkifried are here. Fun fact: The two have been friends since their days at @UF, and even practiced law together post-graduation.
—@Daniel_Sweeney: Today, @BillGalvano calls for Senate to move forward in unity. Yesterday @RepJoseOliva warned against compromising and ending “up in an ideological mush in the center.” The difference between the Florida House and the Florida Senate, in a nutshell.
—@Fineout: .@bruceritchie asks @BillGalvano is there is a chance that FL Leg will revisit contentious beach access law that caused a stir in Walton County. Answer — “No.”
—@GrayRohrer: Most fascinating convo on the FL House floor right now is probably @mattgaetz talking to @CarlosGSmith @AnnaForFlorida and @ida_v_e
—@TroyKinsey: With @RepJoseOliva’s ascendance to the speakership, much Tallahassee lobbying activity is sure to shift from @GovClubTally to @fumacigarsocial, where ‘The Cuban Kennedy’ has a cigar locker.
—@MitchEPerry: Among the guests in the Senate Chamber in Tallahassee this morning hanging with Joe Gruters is Sarasota-area Rep @VernBuchanan
—@JimRosicaFL: .@Book4Senate files “Truth in Government Act” to require those who speak before legislative committees to first give “oath or affirmation” to tell the truth.
—@BSFarrington: So I just read @adamputnam‘s Thanksgiving safety tips. He left out “Don’t talk politics with your drunk uncle while he’s holding a carving knife.”
—@MDixon55: Does a Governor’s Club membership come with being lazy? Park your cars not in the middle of the street
— DAYS UNTIL —
Thanksgiving — 1; Black Friday — 2; Florida Chamber Insurance Summit — 7; Hanukkah begins — 11; Partial government shutdown — 16; 2019 Session Interim Committee Meetings begin — 24; 116th Congress convenes — 43; Florida’s gubernatorial inauguration — 48; ‘Hamilton’ comes to the Straz Center — 83; 2019 Legislative Session starts — 104; Tampa Bay mayoral election — 104; ‘Captain Marvel’ release — 108; Iowa Caucuses — 439; 2020 General Election — 713.
— THANKFUL —
Sunburn readers share what they’re thankful for:
Gov. Rick Scott: “This year, I am thankful to spend Thanksgiving with my beautiful wife, Ann, and our family – including our incredible grandsons. Over the past eight years, being Governor has been the best job in the world. I am thankful for the opportunity to serve Floridians and look forward to continuing to work each day on behalf of our state in Washington. I am also thankful that Peter voted for me. This election has shown that, in Florida, every vote matters. Happy Thanksgiving!”
Governor-elect Ron DeSantis: “I’m incredibly grateful for my amazing wife, Casey, our daughter Madison and the newest addition to our family, our seven-month-old, Mason. This will be our first Thanksgiving as a family of four.”
Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam: “I am thankful for family, Faith and the freedom of this Nation, made possible by the sacrifice of so many. I’m thankful for the bounty of this Land, the beauty of our state and the boundless opportunities for her people. I am grateful to have been allowed to serve my neighbors and eternally thankful for the prayers I’ve received along the journey. I’m reminded of what a foreign visitor asked of our Congressional Prayer Group, years ago: “What is it that Americans feel the need to pray for, when you have so much?”
Attorney General Pam Bondi: “I am completely filled with gratitude for the love of my family, friends, and the incredible people I’ve been blessed to work with the last eight years.”
Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis: “I’m grateful for Katie, my boys, my entire family, and every first responder and military service member who have come together to help the Panhandle recover. The past month has been challenging but in the face of challenges, incredible kindness and humanity shine through. I’ve seen that first hand. I’m incredibly thankful to have the chance to serve our state for four more years.”
Agriculture Commissioner-elect Nikki Fried: “I’m grateful for the encouragement I received from family, friends, and supporters along the way in our campaign, and for all of the work and sacrifices from the volunteers who helped make this possible. It’s a reminder of the stakes of this election and the great responsibility of public service. I’m thankful for the people of Florida who have placed their trust in me and given me this opportunity to serve and better our state, and I’m appreciative of some much-needed downtime to be with my family.”
Speaker Jose Oliva: “I have much to be thankful for. I’m thankful for my family, especially my wife and children who enrich my life, give it purpose, and remind me that America has a bright future ahead of her. I am also deeply grateful and deeply thankful for the men and women who currently serve in the Armed Forces or have served In the cause of freedom. I’m thankful for my colleagues who honored me with their trust and faith as Speaker of the Florida House. And I am thankful for those who came before me, Both politically and personally. We can see the promised land of peace and prosperity only because we stand on the shoulders of giants. As we give thanks this week may we also resolve to be worthy of the sacrifices borne by those who came before us And forever be thankful to live in the greatest country on the face of the earth.”
President Bill Galvano: “This year I’m spending Thanksgiving in Tallahassee with my family, and I am particularly thankful for their love and support. I’m thankful also for my extended family and friends who took time away from their busy schedules to be here in Tallahassee yesterday, and for my fellow Senators and the special relationship we share. Wherever your holiday plans may take you, my family and I pray that you find peace and comfort in fond memories and familiar traditions. Happy Thanksgiving!”
State Sen. Ben Albritton: “Faith, Family, Food!!!”
Allison Aubuchon: “I am thankful for the health my family and I have experienced this year, and the presence of my little brother at our Thanksgiving table, before he starts his Florida Trail journey — he recently completed the entire Pacific Crest Trail and will be regaling us with stories.”
Dave Aronberg: “I am thankful for family, friends, and the recent state and federal response to the opioid crisis that will save lives in 2019.”
Katie Ballard: “I’m grateful that Baby Olivia waited to make her arrival until after Election Day.”
Slater Bayliss: “Hmmmm … when you stop and think about it this is a tough question …..because foundational Gratitude is the George Washington of all virtues … the only the greatest of all virtues but the parent of all others … not sure I have a traditional answer — I am a bit of a contrarian when it comes to gratitude … my answer may not fit into what you are doing Peter but — but it would be … I subscribe to the notion that it is not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, that is the true measure of thanksgiving.”
State Sen. Aaron Bean: “We are truly fortunate to live in this amazing state and country, and this Thanksgiving I hope we will all remember our many blessings. From my family to yours, we wish you a very happy Thanksgiving. Thank you for the honor to represent you in the Florida Senate. Let’s go get ’em!”
Brady Benford, Ballard Partners: “This past year has flown by. I’m thankful first and foremost for my children. Audrey and Colton. Watching them grow into the people they are becoming has been amazing. They’re best friends (at least currently) and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Taylor Biehl: “Above all, becoming a father has been my most meaningful blessing and gift of 2018 — marriage will change you, but becoming a father will change you forever. I’m most grateful for my wife, Mackenzie and daughter, Harper, but I’m also grateful for my brother, Jordan, his wife, Sarah and my nephew, Robert; my boss and mentor, Jeff Sharkey; my parents, Carl and Christine; and my parents-in-law, Josh and Leslie. My wife’s sisters, Alexa and Carly, definitely deserve an honorable mention, too. Love you, all.”
James Blair: “I’m thankful for good health for my family and me. For a successful campaign season filled with victories that are good for Floridians and had the side benefit of proving many doubters wrong. And for the chance to spend some downtime with my wife.”
Matt Blair: “This Thanksgiving, I’m especially thankful for my wife and children, for our families, our friends and our extended family at Corcoran & Johnston. I’m thankful for our clients, many of whom are our closest friends, and who entrust us with their most challenging issues, and for our country, where our children’s futures are limited only by the size of their dreams.”
Carol Bowen, ABC of Florida: “Having the opportunity to try and step into veteran lobbyist Rick Watson for Associated Builders and Contractors of Florida. We have the best members and our industry continues to be critical to Florida’s future. I’m grateful I get to be a part of that effort. Oh, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with the GR Trifecta if greatness — Robert Stuart, Chris Carmody and Chris Dawson. Just don’t let it go to their heads.”
Wilbur Brewton: “My two daughters: Wendy (Charlotte, NC), husband Brian; the 3 granddaughters Elizabeth, Brooke, and Sydney; and Kelly, (Tallahassee), husband Ken; with grandson Ryan are bringing their Family to our home in Tallahassee for Thanksgiving — Cheryl and I am thrilled!!”
Mayor Bob Buckhorn: “Family, friends, and a city that has given me the opportunity to serve them.”
Robin Baker Burr: “That we vote by secret ballot so that my fellow Pasco County voters can’t tell I’m turning their county purple. (Trying to at least.)”
Bill Carlson: “Thankful for family. After a busy day of work and politics, there’s nothing like spending time with the kids.”
Reggie Cardozo: “I’m grateful for my family and loved ones. This year I give thanks for my gorgeous fiancé, two beautiful little girls, an amazing family, and the most wonderful friends.”
Chris Carmody: “That the recount is over? But seriously, my wife Lauren and our two kids Patrick and Anna. Looking forward to play time this turkey day without the phone blowing up with emails about the latest legal filings.”
Joyce Carta: “All of the animal-loving, humane motivated voters who brought a VICTORY for Florida’s greyhounds with the passage of Amendment 13. Thank you, everyone!”
Joe Clements: “I’m grateful for the declining ROI on TV ads.”
Rachel Cone: “My family. My team. And one heck of a ride these last eight years in Tallahassee. Looking forward to many more.”
Michael Corcoran: “My faith, family, friends and work. And, this year more than ever, good health.”
Gus Corbella: “This Thanksgiving, I am grateful for the good health and happiness of my family and of those friends whom we love like family. I am also thankful that we get to pause for a few days of food, fun and football, all while living in the greatest state in the Union. It’s never boring in Florida. Happy Thanksgiving.”
Steve Crisafulli: “I am thankful this Thanksgiving for my amazing family, caring friends and to live in a country that is protected each and every day by those that are willing to lay it all on the line to defend our freedoms.”
U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist: “So grateful to God and my wonderful family. And of course to the people of Pinellas County for their wonderful support!”
Husein Cumber: “I’m thankful first for my loving wife and kids, but also an aunt who made it her life mission to move her eight siblings (one of them being my dad) to America knowing this was the one country where success was inevitable.”
Bill Day: “Thankful to my wife Susan for all her loving support and thankful to Peter Schorsch and Ron Sachs for making Florida my home.”
Mark Delegal: “I am thankful for my wife, my three daughters, my mom, my granny, and that I live in the greatest county in the history of the world.”
State Rep. Ben Diamond: “We are so grateful for our children – Frankie (6), and our twin girls, Vera and Adele (7 months old) – and especially thankful the girls are beginning to sleep through the night!”
Carol Dover: “After traveling the Panhandle this past month since Hurricane Michael, I am grateful for all the first responders, volunteers, insurance company teams, etc. who have given of themselves to help us begin to restore one of the most beautiful parts of our state. Oh, did I also mention that I am grateful this election is over!!!! Thank you, Peter, for all you do to keep us informed and educated.”
Charlie Dudley: “I am most thankful for my family and living in the greatest nation on earth. I am thankful for my Floridian Partners family and our wonderful clients who feed; house; educate; entertain and inform; transport; insure; provide health care and other day to day services to Floridians.”
Marc Dunbar: “It goes without saying my wife of 26 years and my incredible family, but I have to give a big “Thanks” to the people who I worked with who did an amazing job holding down the fort while I was on the job in the Bahamas. And how about Jenn Ungru and her husband, Greg. Not a bad election cycle (DeSantis and Marsy’s law)?!? Thankful that they are part of our team!”
Katie Edwards: “Very thankful I made the right decision at the right time in my life to spend more time at home with my husband, Brad. Can’t wait to see what we will be thankful for next Thanksgiving.”
Mike Ertel: “Gratitude is easy to share when you are surrounded and supported by the best in their field. My gratitude to the members of America’s Finest Elections Team is a year-long enterprise eclipsed only by my gratitude to my family for their on-going support and love.”
State Rep. Anna Eskamani: “I am grateful for the people of House District 47 for trusting me to serve them in the Florida House, for my twin sister who keeps me grounded, and for my Mom who left us too soon in life but inspires me each day to be a happy warrior.”
Alia Faraj-Johnson: “I am thankful for my beautiful daughter who keeps me grounded and reminds me that there is nothing more important than family and for my husband Rob Johnson who is not only supportive, but he keeps us laughing. I am also thankful for my really good friends and particularly my work family.”
Mark Ferrulo: “I give thanks to the team I work with in Florida’s Thunderdome of politics and policy-making. It’s not easy being the underdog, under-resourced, and in recent elections — a collector of more silver linings than gold victories. Regardless, my colleagues at Progress Florida: Ray Seaman, Damien Filer, Amy Weintraub, Jon Bleyer, and Tory Brown, remain undaunted, unjaded, and unwilling to accept the status quo in the state and country we love. They fight the good fight every day, and I’m thankful.”
State Rep. Randy Fine: “I’m grateful that the election is over and I can make up for lost time with my family before we get ready to do the people’s business next year!”
State Rep. Jason Fischer: “I’m thankful for the men and women in uniform who are away from their families this Thanksgiving to ensure that all of us can be with ours.”
Chris Flack: “I’m thankful for my wife and kids, all my family and friends – and that I get to live in Florida. Have you seen how cold it is in other places????”
Max Flugrath: “I’m thankful to have been part of this election cycle, an experience I’ll never forget and friendships that will last for years to come. I’m even more thankful to be out of recount purgatory and emerge with a win for a great candidate—and now get to spend time with family and loved ones that I’ve missed over the past 8 months.”
Florida Chamber:
Reginald Garcia: “Our health and safety, and that our five ‘kids’ are educated young professionals and all doing well. After the Yoga Studio murders in Tallahassee, we are reminded professional success is great but the health and safety of our family, friends and neighbors are most important.”
Adam Giery: “Grateful for our team and their families that support our work to meaningfully engage with Florida’s education system.”
Bruce Glasserman: “I’m grateful for the Governor-Designate Carlos Lopez-Cantera administration. I hope the LG has a lot of fun with the idea of becoming the Sunshine State’s 46th chief executive, even for as such a short time as five days is. All in all, though, it’s a great, well-deserved way for the LG to honorably cap off his political career.”
Gwen Graham: “I am thankful that all three of my kids are flying into the Miami Airport today to spend Thanksgiving with Deedle and Doodle and me. I am beyond blessed by the love of family and thankful for any opportunity to be together.”
Mike Griffin: “For the first time, I am most grateful this Thanksgiving to have the greatest title I’ll ever have in my life – being called Dad to our son Maverick.”
Jeff Hartley: “I’m thankful for a wonderful and healthy family. A wife and daughter who are both gorgeous inside and out! Friends and amazing colleagues who I have the privilege to work with day in and out. Truly blessed to be part of this community.”
Robert Hawken: “Grateful to have the life that my Higher Power has provided, one day at a time.”
Brad Herold: “Ellen and I are thankful for our first Thanksgiving with our son James and that we live in a state that will continue to thrive under Republican leadership.”
Brecht Heuchan: “Things I am most grateful for are the things I most often take for granted. A loving family, kids who inspire and add so much joy to life, a God who loves me despite many faults. Health, company and clients who support. The lovingkindness of both friends and strangers in times of need.”
Buz Heuchan, 7 Rivers Sky Cam: “I’m grateful that no matter what happens in Tallahassee or D.C., our God is still in charge.”
Beth Houghton: “I’m grateful to live in a country where so many are generous to others in need. I’m privileged to see this generosity every day.”
Chris Hudson, Americans for Prosperity-Florida: “I’ve been blessed with an amazing wife, my daughter, and soon to be newborn. I’m thankful for the dedicated patriots I get to work with. And, I’m Thankful for Tallahassee (who continues to underestimate us).”
Nick Iarossi: “This Thanksgiving I’m most thankful for my family, especially my wife and daughters, who are all healthy and happy. I am also thankful to work with such a great, hard-working team of people at Capital City Consulting. Finally, I’m thankful this difficult election cycle is over and we have a group of great state elected officials led by our Governor-Elect that are prepared to put the election behind us and continue to make Florida the greatest state in the Union.”
Lila Jaber: “We take for granted our thoughtful government transition process — change of administration peacefully with order and process. Today, I am thankful for peace and order as we approach new political times. #Florida”
David Johnson: “I am so thankful for the love of Christina, as we all know I’m most fortunate to have convinced her to marry me. Also, Wi-Fi on airplanes.”
Eric Johnson: “This Thanksgiving, I am grateful for the most successful and rewarding campaign I ever ran — the two-year effort to adopt my son 14 years ago from China.”
Jon Johnson: “Having made another trip to Uganda, Africa this year, I most grateful that God has placed my family and me in this country and at this time in history. Having no power and no water is a temporal event for us, in many countries it’s a way of life. Thankful for these things and never want to take them for granted.”
Laura Jolly: “This Thanksgiving I have a grateful heart for our growing family and for the wonderful community we get to call home here in Florida.”
Mark Kaplan: “I am thankful for four happy and healthy kids (and now a son-in-law, too) who are turning out to be wonderful adults, a beautiful wife who is my friend and partner in all we do, and the opportunity to return to our alma mater in Gainesville at an incredibly exciting time. Go Gators!”
Jonathan Kilman: “I am grateful first for my family and their stable presence in my life, for the incredible friendships I have been gifted and for the courage they gave me to strike out and build Converge Government Affairs with my partners. It’s been a year of tremendous growth, personally and professionally.”
Ron LaFace: “I’m grateful for spending Thanksgiving with loved ones and thinking of family members who have passed on but are not forgotten. I am also grateful for wonderful friends who I enjoy life with and make our firm what it is today.”
Mark Landreth: “I am thankful for a God who loves us despite the fact He knows what is truly in our hearts and minds …”
Jackie Lee: “I’m thankful for my family, friends and the many opportunities for the future in Florida. I’m also thankful for karaoke microphones, the haven of Winter and the Mouse.”
Jack Levine: “I’m grateful to be grandfather to healthy, sweet and inquisitive Julianne … and to have the honor to advocate for children, elders and all of us in between.”
Darrick McGhee: “I am simply grateful that another Thanksgiving has come and my family is doing well. Doesn’t get better than that for me.”
Frank Mayernick: “I am thankful for so many things in my life, but at the center of it all is my family. I am thankful for being the luckiest guy on the planet having a beautiful, rockstar wife and having two young daughters that light up my world. Happy Thanksgiving!”
Tracy Mayernick: “I am thankful for the dear loyal friends around me, an incredibly helpful and supportive family who enables us to work and travel to fulfill the needs the job demands but most of all I am thankful for the most amazing husband, business partner and father a woman could wish for and my two beautiful and talented daughters who are so full of personality they put a smile on my face every single day.”
Kristen McDonald: “This Thanksgiving, after the devastation of Hurricane Michael, I’m especially grateful for the health and well-being of each and every one of my family members and friends who rode out the storm in my hometown of Panama City. And of course, for all the first responders, linemen, elected officials, businesses, and volunteers who went above and beyond in the days and weeks following the storm to help the community in its time of greatest need. But I’d be remiss if I didn’t also give a special shout-out to Mike Grissom, who dropped everything after the storm to be there for my parents and me and take care of any and everything that needed to be done.”
Kim McDougald: “I am very grateful for my family, for the time I had on earth with my mom and dad, and the power of having a quality education they instilled in their children. I am very blessed and thankful to have had the opportunity to serve Floridian’s with a servant’s heart for almost three decades. It is ‘oh Florida’ but oh how I love this state.”
Seth McKeel: “I’m thankful for God’s Grace, for Kim McKeel, for a family who loves me and for our incredible team at SSG who kill it each day navigating this awesome, but most complicated state in our union.”
Kathy Mears: “My heart is full of gratefulness for family and friends. Losing my mom this month could have crushed my soul. Instead, the outpouring of love and kindness was breath-taking, strengthening, and beautiful. This Thanksgiving is not a time to reflect on loss, but rather a celebration of all the gifts of today, and tomorrow, and the next day…”
Tim Meenan, attorney: “I am thankful to know we live in a country where everybody has a shot at achieving whatever they want in life, and I am thankful that there are good people working to make sure everyone knows that. #kidfromtrailerpark.”
James Miller, Florida Retail Federation: “I’m thankful for being cancer-free! I’m thankful for the greater love and appreciation I have for my family and friends after what I went through last year. And I am thankful just to be alive and given a second chance at enjoying life.”
Christian Minor: “I’m thankful for friends, family and my health. More importantly, I’m thankful to represent an Association of providers serving our at-risk youth. Youth that often times don’t have family to sit down around a table with at Thanksgiving. It’s is these individuals that embody service, and it is these people that deserve thanks for investing their time in changing the lives of those kids that will be Florida’s future.
Vivian Myrtetus: “Twenty years ago, the day after Thanksgiving I walked down the aisle and started down an amazing journey. This Thanksgiving, I am grateful for my husband Paul and for his patience and understanding & for accepting my career and life as a nomad — living out of a suitcase! I’m blessed my kids still call me MOM, even though I’m only home a couple of nights a week! This Thanksgiving, I am especially grateful for family and friends that support me … it takes a village!”
Ed Narain: “I’m grateful for a loving family and the great circle of friends that make up our village. We are blessed beyond measure. Happy Thanksgiving!”
State Rep. Wengay Newton: “I’m thankful for my Wifey, my family and all the blessings that God has bestowed upon me.”
Meredith O’Rourke: “I’m grateful for God’s guiding hand over me and my family always, the unconditional love from my wonderful husband, John, the close relationship I have with my daughter, Lexi-Langley, and my son, Liam’s remission. God is good, all the time.”
The Personal Insurance Federation of Florida … is especially grateful for Florida’s financial first responders, Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis and the Office of Insurance Regulation. They not only warned consumers in the path of Hurricane Michael about AOB abuse, but also kept their focus on the people of Northwest Florida following the storm.
Kathleen Peters: “I am grateful for my family. I am also grateful for the confidence the citizens have in me to serve the people of Pinellas County.
Ben Pollara: “I am grateful that Democrats will have Nikki Fried in Tallahassee as a bulwark against total Republican dominance in the Sunshine State.”
Melissa Ramba: “For my family, good health, new opportunities and that I am a good enough cook to host 13 family members.”
Emmett Reed: “I am most thankful for the blessing of my wife and children. My wife is my best friend and our children are growing into incredibly kind, talented and intelligent adults. Family gatherings are filled with laughter, debate and more laughter. I cherish every moment that I have with them. I am also thankful for my team at FHCA. When I started as their executive director 10 years ago, my sincere hope was to put together a team that wanted to help care in nursing homes improve. That team now consists of a seasoned, highly ethical lobby team, a communications director that is the best in the business and a quality unit that has nearly 100-years practical experience running high-quality care centers. For the past 10 years, I have been excited to go to work every day. For that, for my team and for my FHCA members, I am thankful.”
Bill Rubin: “I am most grateful to for my wife, Lys, and daughter, Michelle. I am also so very grateful for my family at The Rubin Group. God has blessed me with a wonderful life.”
Ron Sachs: “No matter what problems, challenges or setbacks weigh any of us down, all of us have something-to-many things for which to be grateful: Family, friends who are family of choice, love in our lives, a job, colleagues whom we respect and adore, nature, signs of a true power greater than ourselves in every day, and life itself. And we are blessed to live in a state and nation that remain great in many ways. No one and nothing can take us too far off the path of goodness that is the heart of the country’s and our families’ values.”
Rob Schenck: “I am simply thankful for my family. I am blessed to have two awesome kids and a wonderful wife who puts up with all the craziness.”
Mike Scudiero: “I’m thankful that even the ESPN crew had to come to grips with what many of us already knew: UCF is clearly the best football program in our state.”
Patrick Slevin: “I’m thankful to be born and living in the greatest country in the history of humankind. I’m thankful to God for continuously blessing the United States of America. I’m thankful to those who died defending our flag and our way of life. Because of the above, I can take a special day with family and friends to share in gratitude the most meaningful holiday on the calendar. Happy Thanksgiving.
Brad Swanson: “I have so much to be thankful for … I’m thankful for my faith, my healthy and smart kids Emma, Olivia and Gage, my family, my friends and for being a Floridian! … oh, and very thankful for the new season of Narcos … Sinaloa in the house!!!”
State Rep. Jackie Toledo: “I am grateful for God’s guidance and protection. I am grateful for my incredible kids, family and friends. I am grateful for the memories that our fur baby, Blue gave us. Although she has gone too soon, she will be in our hearts forever. I am grateful for the constituents of district 60 that have trusted me to represent them and voice their values in Tallahassee.”
Cory Tilley: “More and more grateful each year for the simple and basic things in life. Family, friends, and the important priorities that become very very clear with time, experience and wisdom through the years. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Chris Turner: “I’m thankful for family by blood and family by friendship. As always, I’m thankful for God for continuing to guide me forward.”
Steve Vancore: “I am grateful for good friends in this business, an incredible business partner, staff who are smarter than I am and to have found someone at this stage in my life to share it all with. Plus, the bonus of three amazing young men who are my sons.”
Screven Watson: “This Thanksgiving I am so very Thankful for my loving and supportive wife and daughter. I am also thankful for the numerous and very meaningful friendships that I have developed throughout my 25 years in the process. Lastly, I am thankful my Florida State Seminoles finally #DidSomething vs. BC last week. Go Noles!”
Alan Williams: “This Thanksgiving I am thankful for the many blessings that GOD has bestowed upon me. I am thankful for all of the men and women in this state & country that put their lives on the line every day for our safety. I’m thankful for the teachers that educate our children every day. And most of all I’m thankful for my family, my work family at Meenan Law Firm & my true friends. This year I lost my father to pancreatic cancer and it has taught me the significance and importance of living each day to its fullest because he did just that, thanks Dad, I love you to the heavens & back!”
Joe York: “I’m grateful for my family, friends their health my health. Grateful for opportunities, grateful for our freedom, the soldiers and first responders who serve us all. I’m also grateful for the problems and challenges I have faced but never in the moment but definitely in reflection. It’s life and I am so grateful for it.”
Skylar Zander: “I’m incredibly thankful for my smoking hot wife and beautiful baby girl Emma. I’m also thankful for an amazing team that has worked incredibly hard to break barriers for so many Floridians.”
— THANKSGIVING READS —
“Why Thanksgiving still wins, in one paragraph” via Michael Schaffer of The New Republic — “It’s a holiday to be proud of: Humble without being morose, generous without being opulent, old without being irrelevant, intimate but also all about community. At a time of income inequality, the feast that is its central organizing event is made of ingredients that are democratic. In an era of suspicion, it celebrates immigrants. During a period of polarization, it’s something we all agree on. It can be religious if you want, but it doesn’t have to be: Thank the Almighty, thank your friends, thank your lucky stars — it’s all good.”
“The effect of partisanship and political advertising on close family ties” via M. Keith Chen of UCLA and Ryne Rohla of WSU — Research on growing American political polarization and antipathy primarily studies public institutions and political processes, ignoring private effects, including strained family ties. Using anonymized smartphone-location data and precinct-level voting, we show that Thanksgiving dinners attended by residents from opposing-party precincts were 30 to 50 minutes shorter than same-party dinners. This decline from a mean of 257 minutes survives extensive spatial and demographic controls. Reductions in the duration of Thanksgiving dinner in 2016 tripled for travelers from media markets with heavy political advertising — an effect not observed in 2015 — implying a relationship to election-related behavior. Effects appear asymmetric: Although fewer Democratic-precinct residents traveled in 2016 than in 2015, Republican-precinct residents shortened their Thanksgiving dinners by more minutes in response to political differences. Nationwide, 34 million hours of cross-partisan Thanksgiving dinner discourse were lost in 2016 owing to partisan effects.
“Thanksgiving traffic reaching pre-Great Recession levels” via Scott Powers of Florida Politics — Make room on those highways. There will be 48.7 million of you traveling 50 miles or more to go home for Thanksgiving this week, an increase of 1 million travelers compared to last year. That’s according to the latest projections from AAA as the Thanksgiving holiday weekend rolls. This year will see the most Thanksgiving travelers since 2007, pre-Great Recession. “If you are one of the 43.5 million people on the road, we urge you to be patient in traffic and limit distractions while behind the wheel,” AAA President Joseph Richardson Jr., stated in a news release. The vast majority of Americans traveling for Thanksgiving are doing so by car. Of the 2.5 million Floridians traveling for Thanksgiving, 2.3 million will be in cars, the agency is reporting.
— CORNUCOPIA —
“Here’s what your part of America eats on Thanksgiving” via Walt Hickey of FiveThirtyEight.com — When you get past the poultry and check out the side dishes, the regional distinctions really come out. Going deeper, the Southeast is the definitive home of canned cranberry sauce; respondents from the region are 50 percent more likely to pick that over the homemade variety. The Southeast prefers their carbs in the form of mac and cheese — 35 percent of respondents in that region include the dish on their Thanksgiving menu versus 20 percent of the country overall. What about dessert? Every region enjoys pumpkin pie. But beyond that, there are three Americas: The America that disproportionately has apple pie (New England and the Middle Atlantic), the America that has pecan pie and sweet potato pie (the assorted South), and the America that consumes cherry pie (the Midwest and West).
“Cost of Thanksgiving Day meal drops for third straight year” via Florida Politics — That’s according to an informal survey of traditional Thanksgiving Day staples by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF). This year’s meal costs $48.90 for a family of 10, on average. The priciest item is, of course, the turkey. A 16-pound bird will cost about $21.71, a drop of 3 percent since last year and the cheapest it has been since 2014. For the overall meal, prices haven’t been this low in eight years. So aside from the main course, what else constitutes a “meal,” according to the AFBF? In addition to the turkey, their list includes cranberries, peas, pumpkin pie with whipped cream, rolls with butter, stuffing, sweet potatoes, a veggie tray, and coffee and milk.
“Five myths about turkey” via Tamar Haspel of The Washington Post — 1. Ben Franklin almost made the turkey the national bird. In a 1784 satirical letter to his daughter, he maligned the eagle’s “bad moral character.” The turkey is a “more respectable bird, and withal a true original native of America,” Franklin wrote. 2. Stuffing turkey is a recipe for food poisoning. Yes, it’s important to take precautions when cooking poultry, but you can safely stuff a turkey — generations of Americans wouldn’t have risked dying for the sake of a more flavorful side dish. 3. Basting is better. Not so fast, says Meathead Goldwyn, the force behind AmazingRibs.com and the author of “Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling.” The problem is that basting prolongs cooking times. “Think of it like sweat after a long workout,” Goldwyn told me via email, “it cools you off.” And basting may moisten the bird, “but not a lot,” says Goldwyn. 4. Thanksgiving turkey makes you sleepy. Tryptophan doesn’t necessarily induce sleep, and it’s doubtful that turkey’s the culprit for your post-Thanksgiving-dinner nap. 5. Turkey was Thanksgiving’s first entree. Kathleen Wall, a culinarian at Plimouth Plantation, a history museum that re-creates the original Plymouth colony, told Smithsonian, “Wildfowl was there … venison was there,” water birds like goose or duck were likely candidates, and passenger pigeons were plentiful game at the time. But turkey probably wasn’t the featured dish.
“The rise and fall of turkey brining” via Kim Severson of The New York Times — Like the length of a trouser leg, turkey fashion shifts. Interviews with the big players in food media over the past few weeks suggest that the wet, salty turkey has lost its appeal among many of the people who once did the most to promote it. “I’m so over it,” said Alex Guarnaschelli, the New York chef and television personality. Never mind that her turkey-brining recipe — thick with honey, molasses and soy — is still prominently displayed on the Food Network website. “I’m not afraid to admit evolution has occurred with my cooking, and I’ll go on record as someone who has a great brine recipe,” she said. “But right now I am in a no-brining phase.” Why the change of heart on brining? “It’s enormous. It’s wonky. It’s ambitious,” she said. “And I don’t always love the texture.”
“Florida’s unique turkey species gobbles on” via David Flesher of the Orlando Sentinel … An elusive variety of the giant bird will be gobbling, clucking and flying at surprisingly high speed through South Florida’s fields and forests … Osceola turkey, also called the Florida wild turkey … a subspecies unique to the state’s peninsula. Smaller and darker than its Northern cousins, the Osceola can be found at the southeastern end of Everglades National Park, at the far western edge of Broward County, in the forests of northwestern Palm Beach County and throughout the peninsula up to about Jacksonville. The state’s native turkey has turned into an unlikely tourist draw, attracting hunters seeking to complete their “grand slam” of all five North American turkey subspecies. At the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area in northern Palm Beach County, hunters killed 103 turkeys in the last three seasons … Their speed would surprise anyone who thinks of turkeys as waddling blobs of meat and feathers. A wild turkey can run up to 25 miles per hour and briefly achieve a flying speed of 55 miles per hour, according to the National Wild Turkey Federation.
“If you want to be historically accurate this holiday, serve alligator” via the Jacksonville Historical Society — Fifty-six years before the Pilgrims celebrated their feast, Spanish explorer Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles arrived on the coast of Florida. He came ashore September 8, 1565, naming the land on which he stepped “St. Augustine” in honor of the saint on whose feast day, Aug. 28, the land was sighted. Members of the Timucua tribe, which had occupied the site for more than 4,000 years, greeted Menéndez and his group of some 800 Catholic colonists peacefully. Colonial records indicate that on the date they came ashore, and in gratitude for their safe arrival, the Spanish celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving, the very first Catholic mass on American soil. According to the memoirs of Father Francisco Lopez de Mendoza Grajales, who celebrated the mass, once “the feast day [was] observed … after mass, ‘the Adelantado [Menendez] had the Indians fed and dined himself.”
“FSU researchers talk turkey: Native Americans raised classic holiday bird long before first Thanksgiving” via Kathleen Haughney of Florida State University — Native Americans as early as 1200 — 1400 A.D. were managing and raising turkeys. This is the first time scientists have suggested that early Native Americans in the southeastern United States potentially domesticated turkeys. Researchers knew that turkeys had been a part of Native American life long before the first Thanksgiving in 1621. Their feathers were used on arrows, in headdresses and clothing. The meat was used for food. Their bones were used for tools including scratchers used in ritual ceremonies. There are even representations of turkeys in artifacts from the time. But this new research indicates turkeys were more than just a casual part of life for Native Americans of that era. For one, the groupings researchers worked on had more male turkeys than a typical flock. In a typical flock of turkeys, there are usually more females … But in the flock they examined, they found more remains of males. That would only happen if it were designed that way.
Adam Putnam gives annual Thanksgiving safety tips — Agriculture Commissioner Putnam and the Florida Forest Service offer their yearly safety advice for the holidays: Avoid burning yard debris on dry, windy days. Never leave a fire or outdoor heat source unattended. Set up turkey fryers and grills at least 10 feet away from the home and away from overhanging branches and natural areas. Clear an area around the heat source free of leaves, branches and other flammable debris or materials. Have an appropriate fire suppression tool on hand (for turkey fryers, keep a multipurpose, dry powder fire extinguisher ready in the event that the oil ignites). Never dump used charcoal briquettes into dry grass or debris; douse coals with water and dispose of them in a metal container or bare mineral soil.
“Hillsborough man’s early Thanksgiving treat: Half a million dollars” via Florida Politics — That’s a lot of turkey. The Florida Lottery this week announced that a Brandon man won the $500,000 top prize in the EXTRA PLAY Scratch-Off game. Lennox Wilson, 51, claimed his prize last Friday at Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee. He bought the winning ticket from a 7-Eleven on Fishhawk Boulevard in Lithia.
— GAVEL SWITCH —
State Rep. Jose Oliva and Sen. Bill Galvano took the reins of their respective chambers during yesterday’s “Organization Session.”
The ceremony marked a return to normalcy for those following Florida politics. The election, for which results also were certified Tuesday, is behind us. The 2019 Legislative Session, complete with a fresh slate of lawmakers and a new Governor, is on the horizon.
Both Galvano and Oliva hinted at the tone to come in March. Galvano said he wants to stem “incivility” and work toward “candor and transparency.” Oliva, heralded as an ideologue by his colleagues, asked members to “let our debate lean on the strength of our argument rather than the volume of our voice.”
‘20/20 vision’: Galvano’s remarks were forward looking at times. “Recent estimates indicate over the next six years, our state will gain over 850 people a day, effectively adding a population equal to a city slightly larger than Orlando every year,” the Bradenton Republican said. “We must be ready.”
Free market flex: Oliva, of Miami Lakes, doubled down on his party’s fundamental beliefs in his speech to the chamber. On issues perennially in the fore of state lawmaking, including health care and education, he offered only free market-focused comments.
Mark your calendars: Legislative committees will meet the weeks of Dec. 11, Jan. 7 and 22, and Feb. 4, 11, and 18. The 2019 Legislative Session begins on Tuesday, March 5, 2019.
“Pledging to be ‘facilitator,’ Bill Galvano becomes Senate President” via Jim Rosica of Florida Politics — As expected — and scripted, the Florida Senate unanimously elected Galvano as President of the GOP-controlled chamber for 2019 and 2020 Legislative Sessions. The move came at a constitutionally-mandated “organization session” on Tuesday, after the 2018 general elections. Outgoing President and Stuart Republican Joe Negron passed the gavel, and 10 new members also took seats at the ceremony. Galvano, a Bradenton Republican, didn’t lay out a detailed policy agenda for the next two years, but rather told his 39 colleagues: “We will write the agenda together.” In brief remarks, Galvano said he intends to be a “facilitator,” to empower individual senators.
“Jose Oliva urges civility, reducing regulations” via Jim Turner of the News Service of Florida — Miami Lakes Republican Oliva called for civility among lawmakers as he vowed to continue his party’s push for limited government after being formally elected to serve as House speaker for the next two years. “I stand before you as a Hispanic speaker of the Florida House,” Oliva told reporters. “I know what our party represents, and during my entire time in the Florida House, I have not abided by the type of partisanship that sets one person against the other because of what jersey they are wearing. I decide if I’m with someone based on their ideas and ideology.” Speaking to lawmakers, Oliva briefly outlined goals for the House that include continuing to open school choice for parents, protecting natural resources such as water and wildlife and reducing state and local regulations, which he said will help raise wages and lower housing costs.
“Civility called for at swearing-in ceremony, but challenges, conflict loom for Legislature” via Gray Rohrer of the Orlando Sentinel — Florida legislative leaders called for civility and cooperation as the new Legislature was officially sworn in, eager to put the divisive election and recount season behind them. But there were also signs that the major parties, the House, the Senate and the incoming Ron DeSantis administration could be poised to clash with each other next year when they get down to the reality of governing. “It has been a long election cycle, vigorously fought, and the voters have spoken,” said Senate President Galvano. “But now it is time to move forward united in the purpose of serving, to the absolute best of our ability, the people of Florida.”
— STATEWIDE —
“Galvano signals workers’ comp could be on table” via Christine Sexton of the News Service of Florida — Galvano said the laws need to be looked at because of two state Supreme Court rulings, including one that eliminated caps on fees charged by attorneys who represent injured workers. He said there is a chance the rulings could result in rate hikes in the future. “I don’t want to be in a situation where they spike and then we are running to fix it at that point,” Galvano told reporters. “I’d rather look at the system and make any changes that are necessary while we have the luxury of not having high rates.” Galvano, who formally took over as Senate President, would not say whether he would be willing to offer proposals that would affect employers and employees, saying that is “not a decision that has been made.”
“Gun safety advocates claim victory with Nikki Fried win” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Some of Florida’s biggest gun control advocates saw in Fried’s Agriculture Commissioner race a victory. “This is a victory for those of us who believe we can do more for gun safety,” wrote Fred Guttenberg, whose daughter Jaime died in the Parkland high school mass shooting in February. Fried emerged victorious in Florida’s closest and most drawn out statewide election, besting Republican Matt Caldwell by 6,753 votes, about 0.08 percent of more than 8 million votes cast. She was in Tallahassee on Tuesday, attending both legislative chambers’ Organization Sessions.
Leading lawmakers seek appeal conservation lands ruling — Leading Republican lawmakers said they want to appeal a June court ruling requiring more state money be spent acquiring land. The case related to a 2014 constitutional amendment approved by Florida voters that diverts 33 percent of net revenues from the existing excise tax on documents toward land acquisition and conservation efforts. … Circuit Court Judge Charles Dodson ruled that proceeds, expected to hit $20 billion over the amendments 20-year shelf life, must be spent on acquiring, managing or improving land. … The ruling was celebrated by environmental groups, saying it vindicated the will of the voters, 75 percent of whom backed Amendment 1 four years ago. … “That’s the judge’s interpretation of what the will of the people was with regards to that amendment,” President Galvano said Tuesday. “That’s why it’s on appeal right now. The appellate court may have a different interpretation.” … Also piping in was incoming House Budget Chief Travis Cummings, an Orange Park Republican, who said he thought “the judicial system has to be mindful of overstepping the legislative boundaries. We’re here to make laws and interpret them.”
“Senator targets multi-subject constitutional amendments” via News Service of Florida — A Republican senator Tuesday proposed a single-subject requirement for constitutional amendments placed on the ballot in the future by the Florida Constitution Revision Commission. Sen. Rob Bradley filed the proposal (SJR 74) for consideration during the 2019 legislative session, which starts in March. It comes after widespread criticism of Constitution Revision Commission decisions this year that “bundled” seemingly unrelated issues into single ballot proposals. As an example, one ballot proposal that was approved by voters Nov. 6 combined a ban on offshore oil drilling with a ban on vaping or use of electronic cigarettes in workplaces.
“Jason Fischer, Randy Fine prepare for 2020 re-election bids” via the News Service of Florida — Fischer, a Jacksonville Republican, opened a campaign account to run again in Duval County’s House District 16. Fischer captured 58.5 percent of the vote in the Nov. 6 election as he defeated Democrat Ken Organes. Fine, a Palm Bay Republican, opened an account to run again in Brevard County’s House District 53. Fine on Nov. 6 won 55.1 percent of the vote in defeating Democrat Phil Moore.
“Navarre newspaper sues outgoing Santa Rosa commissioner” via Tom McLaughlin of the NWF Daily News — Sandi Kemp, the publisher and owner of the Navarre Press newspaper, has made good on her threat to file a defamation lawsuit against outgoing Santa Rosa County Commissioner Rob Williamson. The lawsuit claims mailers Williamson sent out during his ultimately unsuccessful campaign for re-election subjected Kemp and the newspaper “to public hatred, distrust, ridicule and contempt.” Williamson’s actions, the suit claims, “tend(ed) to harm (Kemp and the paper’s) reputation in the estimation of the community, deterring, third persons from associating or dealing with them.” The lawsuit claims false statements made by Williamson in his mailers constitute defamation “because they harm (Kemp and the paper) in the business trade and profession by striking at (their) professional competence, capacity, fitness, skills and character necessary to (their) carrying out the business and purposes of the Navarre Press.”
“Hillsborough man’s early Thanksgiving treat: A half-million dollars” via Florida Politics — The Florida Lottery this week announced that a Brandon man won the $500,000 top prize in the EXTRA PLAY Scratch-Off game. Lennox Wilson, 51, claimed his prize at Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee. He bought the winning ticket from a 7-Eleven on Fishhawk Boulevard in Lithia. “The $5 game, EXTRA PLAY, offers more than $58 million in cash prizes, including eight top prizes of $500,000,” the Lottery’s news release said. “The game’s overall odds of winning are one-in-3.99.” Wilson “declined the opportunity to take a photo,” the Lottery said.
— HELPING OF HONESTY —
PolitiFact is out with a Thanksgiving truth table setter, expected to add a healthy dose of reason to Thursday’s feast.
“The conversation may start out innocently enough, but there will be hints of what’s to come after the turkey’s been carved,” writes Kyra Haas for PolitiFact.
Contrary to what your relatives might think, Democrats aren’t funding the migrant caravan and Florida’s elections aren’t rigged.
Here are some more highlights.
Socialism and stuffing: Don’t let your relatives claim that Democrats in Florida are socialists. “Save the red scare for an undercooked turkey,” writes Haas. “We rated individual attacks and sweeping versions of these socialism claims False and Pants on Fire.”
Fake news feast: “Secondhand social media news is likely, at a minimum, to omit nuance, and just as likely to be completely inaccurate,” Haas writes. Fact checks of suspicious stories can be found here.
Savory sanctuaries: There aren’t any so-called “sanctuary cities” in the Sunshine State. “[Donald] Trump said people were rioting in California over sanctuary cities,” writes Haas. “Pants on Fire.”
— D.C. MATTERS —
“’He’s evolving’: Once a sunny conservative, Marco Rubio goes all-in on Trumpism” via Sean Sullivan of The Washington Post — Like many Republicans, the second-term Florida Senator has sounded more and more like President Trump since the 2016 election — striking a notably darker and foreboding tone while adopting some of Trump’s slash-and-burn political tactics and controversial positions. Since the Nov. 6 midterm elections, Rubio has stood on the front lines of the partisan war here in Florida over his state’s recount, storming social media with criticism of Democrats and seizing on incomplete information to raise doubts about the intentions of elections officials. He also penned a Wall Street Journal op-ed declaring that “Trump Is Right About Nationalism,” embracing a term fraught with racial and historical baggage, though he argued it is not about ethnicity. “I do think he’s evolving,” said Brian Ballard, a Rubio associate and Republican donor in Florida. “I have noticed his tweets are much more in-your-face.”
“Americans for Prosperity-Florida lets voters know what it’s thankful for this year” via Florida Politics — Americans for Prosperity announced a volley of direct mailers, digital ads and phone banking to spread the word on what the organization is thankful for this Thanksgiving. Four issues got the spotlight in the newly announced ad buys: Reigning in federal spending, supporting a fix for the Dreamers, criminal justice reform and opposition to the Donald Trump Administration’s tariffs. “Pumpkins grow on vines. Potatoes grown in the ground. Turkeys grow on farms. But thankfully, Matt Gaetz knows money doesn’t grow on trees,” one of the mailers reads. “The federal government gobbled up over $4 trillion last year for the first time ever,” the reverse side says. “Representative Matt Gaetz voted against this out-of-control spending.” The mailer then encourages constituents to give the second term Congressman a call to “thank him for standing up for our families and communities.”
— A THANKSGIVING POEM —
By Kevin Sweeny
Over the river, around the I-4 construction and through Rock Spring Run woods,
First hand out the pies and then to Aunt Sarah’s house we go;
The Google map knows the way
To skip the political fray
Through the rain and quieting of the legislative show.
—
Over the river along I-10 and through the Aucilla woods,
Oh, how the Capital does glow!
Thanks to my team and the loyal friends we chose
And Wellesley’s kiss on the nose
Give thanks to those we work with- tell them- they might not know.
—
Over the river, flying down 95 and through the Matanzas woods,
I’m thankful for Babes, N+P, Dp, the G’s, 1.3%, KIE and the leadership play.
Hear the end of the recounts ring
“Ting-a-ling-ding,”
Hurrah for Thanksgiving Day!
—
Over the river, ripping along Alligator Alley and Big Cypress woods,
Give thanks for what you have and a send a prayer for those in Michael’s way.
Give thanks for family and friends we have found,
And for last-minute amendments inbound,
For this is Thanksgiving Day.
—
Over the river, stuck on 275 and through Terra Ceia woods,
For just one day may our political differences abate.
Stop! Now! Give thanks for all those you know
Donations, bills, Reps, Senators, paywalls and blogs come and go
Our time here’s short — give thanks now- you simply can’t wait.
—
Over the river sneaking along US 1 and through the Glades woods —
Put down the Twitter, ‘insta and ‘book today to remember why!
I’m thankful I can run!
Is this damn poem done?
I’ll be running for pumpkin pie!
— MOVEMENTS —
“Lobby-up: Boys & Girls Clubs dump Jack Cory, jump to Ramba Consulting” via Florida Politics — The Florida Alliance of the Boys & Girls Clubs have had Cory‘s Public Affairs Consultants on retainer for more than a decade … Newly filed lobbying registrations show David Ramba, Allison Carvajal and Cameron Yarbrough of Ramba Consulting Group picked up the Florida Alliance contract last week. Public Affairs Consultants still lists the Boys & Girls Clubs as an active client, but sources familiar with Florida Alliance’s plans say the group told Cory’s firm they were getting the ax a few months ago. The third-quarter contract is a step down from what Public Affairs Consultants reported for the prior quarter when the Boys & Girls Clubs paid between $10,000 and $20,000 for legislative lobbying and were marked down for up to $10,000 more in fees on the executive side. Records show the Florida Alliance of the Boys & Girls Clubs also are represented by Margaret Timmins and Lisa Henning of Timmins Consulting.
Q3 earnings:
“The Fiorentino Group snags $615K in third-quarter fees” via Florida Politics — The six-man team reported nearly five dozen legislative clients, including a duo that paid an estimated $25,000 apiece for the quarter: Flagler Hospital and Loop’s Nursery and Greenhouses. The Jax-based firm marked another nine legislative clients down in the $10,000 to $20,000 range with the remainder of the firm’s legislative lobbying contracts netting them an estimated $5,000 a pop. Principals hitting the five-figure mark: The City of Jacksonville, Crowley Maritime, Five STAR Veterans Center, Florida Court Clerks and Comptrollers, HDR Engineering, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority, Jacksonville University, the PGA Tour and UF Health Jacksonville. Florida Hospital again tied for the top spot in the legislative report, but it split the title with BHK Capital rather than Loop’s. Both clients chipped in $25,000 for exec branch work.
“Q3 nets Floridian Partners $925K in lobbying pay” via Florida Politics — The firm’s legislative compensation report included 61 principals that combined to pay the firm up to $790,000. Lobbyists report their earnings from each client in ranges covering $10,000 increments. Using the median of the top and bottom ends of those ranges would put Floridian Partner’s legislative lobbying haul at $585,000. Sitting alone atop the legislative report was Magellan Complete Care, which paid an estimated $45,000 in fees during the three-month stretch. Following the Maryland-based health care company were three clients chipping in an estimated $35,000 each: Florida Internet & Television, Knox Nursery and the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Correctional Health Partners was the firm’s top executive client for the quarter, showing up in the $30,000 to $40,000 range. The No. 2 position was a tie between the National Council on Compensation Insurance and the St. Joe Company, each of which paid $25,000 for executive branch lobbying.
“Third quarter brings Johnson & Blanton $1M-plus in lobbying pay” via Florida Politics — Team JB reeled in $725,000 of that cash from its legislative clients, with another $410,000 flowing into their coffers thanks to work before the Governor and Cabinet. Topping their income report for House and Senate advocacy were Florida Hospital and the Florida Hospital Association. Both paid an estimated $35,000 apiece in Q3, followed by a trio in the $20,000 to $30,000 range, 31 contracts coming in at $15,000 and nearly two-dozen more principals paying $5,000 a pop. Florida Hospital paid the same amount for executive branch work as they did legislative, making the Orlando-based outfit JB’s top client for the quarter with between $60,000 and $80,000 in total pay. FHA slipped to the $25,000 report on the other side of the ball but easily took the No. 2 spot with an estimated $60,000 in pay during the reporting period. A large chunk of the lobby shop’s scratch came from the health care and pharmaceutical industries.
— ALOE —
“Flying for turkey? Know your rights before you board” via Janelle Irwin Taylor of Florida Politics — The U.S. Department of Transportation is making sure travelers know what to expect this holiday season as well as what their rights are: Federal rules do not guarantee passengers compensation for flight delays or cancellations. That includes vouchers for things like cab rides, hotel stays or meals. Some airlines do offer those amenities to passengers if unpredictable circumstances force delays or flight cancellations. Airlines are required to notify passengers either on their website or through a telephone automation system of flight status changes that occur within one week of scheduled travel and they must do so within 30-minutes of finding out. For passengers whose flights have been delayed or canceled, airlines can often transfer a passenger’s ticket to another flight. But the DOT warns passengers that doing so can sometimes incur additional costs or fee increases.
“The 32 rules of Thanksgiving touch football” via Florida Politics — A Nerf ball is OK but you should own a leather football … It’s two-hand touch. One-hand touch is for lazy people who buy turkey sandwiches out of vending machines. … Two completions are a first down. Not as simple as it sounds — just ask the 2012 Jacksonville Jaguars. … The ground is probably going to be squishy with cold mud, and someone in your family is going to fall down face-first and ruin his or her Thanksgiving outfit. This is not cause for alarm. This is the highlight of the game … It’s OK to play with kids but don’t baby them. Just because your 7-year-old niece is playing quarterback doesn’t mean you can’t intercept her screen pass and run it back for a touchdown. She’s got to learn sometime not to throw into triple coverage.
“Is Cyber Monday still a thing? Retail expert says its ‘uniqueness’ is disappearing” via the Syracuse University News — According to the National Retail Federation, more than 160 million people are expected to shop over the five-day Thanksgiving weekend, with 71 percent of those consumers planning to shop in-store and with online retailers on Black Friday. Ray Wimer is an assistant professor of retail practice at Syracuse University’s Martin J. Whitman School of Management. With so many Black Friday shoppers opting to catch deals online, Professor Wimer says Cyber Monday is no longer unique: “Black Friday is really no longer a one-day shopping extravaganza, it really signals a kickoff to a four-day promotional period that concludes on Cyber Monday. Significantly early reports of buyer intent show that 33 percent of U.S. shoppers will mostly or only shop Black Friday online, taking away from some of the Cyber Monday uniqueness … 54 percent of U.S. shoppers say they are more likely to shop online during Black Friday with the biggest reasons being convenience and simplicity. Again, this would detract from the Cyber Monday event.”
Happy birthday — Celebrating today is the incomparable Rick Wilson. And since Sunburn is off the rest of the week, let us send early birthday wishes to Bettina Inclan-Agen, Brady Benford, Ed Briggs, Derek Cooper, Jennifer Krell Davis, Rep. Jason Fischer, former Rep. Rich Glorioso, former Rep. Adam Hasner, Andrew Ketchel, Jeff Johnston, Chris Spencer‘s better half, Gina, our friend Gary Springer, Todd Thomson, my fellow Disney aficionado Screven Watson, and Julia Gill Woodward.
