Watchdog Report Vol.18 No 35 February 25, 2018 – EST: 05.05.00 – I go when you cannot – Celebrating almost 18 years of weekly publishing

Pino

www.cbs.com/all-access/play/v6Dnph3631bSN0lQ1lUhyYOOGTY_1R4N/?intcid=CIA50c5bed

 

 

The Miami Dade Beacon Council Feb.28 is holding a panel from 8;00 a.m. to 10 a.m. of media CEOs and to discuss how the industry is changing in todays digital world and results in two dimensional reporting and for more or tickets goto:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mh-ceo-roundtable-a-conversation-on-media-tickets-43000512691

 

>>> Parkland High School massacre stirs the soul of Florida, after 17 students and teachers’ dead will AR -15’s assault rifles finally get banned, one of most popular guns in nation?

 

The horrific mas shooting at a Parkland High School has spread a sad cloud over all of Florida has once again asked why people with mental issues can buy a AR-15 one of the most popular rifles in the nation and while he clearly has some mental issues. The press emphasizing, he was aged out of foster care made it seem any one in foster care must have mental issues and mental health is a national problem and some 44,965   children try to commit suicide and another 15-17 percent of kids try again.

 

Further, the massive movement of mobilized students is starting to change the debate and an increase in age to 21 is being debated and limiting the size of magazines and you can see this intensity of the youth when they speak at the Miami commission for example and the movement is very visceral to these young stud

 

>>> There is also a March for OUR Lives Parkland on Mar.24 at Pines Trail Park, 10555 Trails End, Parkland FL. 33076 at 9: A.M.

 

>>>Past WDR: Proper U.S. Census count for 2020 critical, costs us millions in federal funding and maybe an extra congressional seat, will status question skew the count, happened in 2002 national count because of fear after child Elian extracted by federal government

 

The idea of having a question on your immigration status in the upcoming 2020 U.S. Census will be highly detrimental to South Florida. I have been covering this national census since 2000 when we were clobbered in the undercount since that Census came during the Elian Gonzalez saga that split the community and had many residents frightened of people doing the count even though it is done by the Department of Commerce and not a law enforcement agency. Further, since many residents would not open the door counters had to do “curb counting,” where seeing a pink bicycle would suggest a little girl and back then someone not being counted resulted in losing some $300 million in federal funding being denied per year and perhaps a congressional seat.

 

Further the community had to fight to get this undercount corrected and did create a new congressional seat after the adjustments but that may not be possible in the future.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/social-issues/white-house-proposal-to-ask-immigration-status-in-census-could-have-chilling-effect-experts-say/2017/02/01/1fc51b8e-e8af-11e6-bf6f-301b6b443624_story.html?utm_term=.daf4a990a031

 

>>> Further Broward County has already set a commission census Workshop. Since they want to get ahead of the curve and understand the importance of the once a decade count.

 

What about the Broward County attorney Joni Coffey?

 

Long time Miami-Dade County Assistant County attorney Joni Coffey who later became the Broward Attorney has left the office, and she has joined the Akerman law firm. I ran into the highly accomplished attorney in the lobby of the Miami Commission Thursday.

 

Further, years ago when Broward hired her. I wrote the women does everything by the book and she was always very supportive and polite to me at public meetings back in 2000. She is being replaced by a Columbia University Law School graduate Andrew J. Meyers and he grew up in North Miami Beach. She is married to former U.S. Atty. Kendall Coffey, who brought a drug kingpin case that resulted in the nation’s most corrupt jury and had the drug dealers buying the jury foreman a new house and the two only recently were finally brought to justice after one of them lived inconspicuously in central Florida.

 

>>>>Judge Ortiz, doesn’t remember free suite and VIP tickets to Bongos night club, when does this end net worth $1,336 million in 2016, lists “N/A,” when it comes to gifts on state disclosure form

 

The arrest of the building director on Miami Beach for taking gifts and free hotels and resorts. The one thing that jumped out was he was married to Circuit Court Judge Maria D. Ortiz and the Nova University law grad was also a City of Miami attorney and was elected to the bench in 2004 and is up again in 20019, and I tried to review her form 6 financial disclosure but it’s not online (but I did get her 2016 forms but she has not filed her 2017 forms due in June. For I wanted to see if she listed some of this as gifts as required but I doubt it. This problem starts with the first comped meal and once that line is crossed it just goes on and just escalates.

Judge Maria D. Ortiz

 

https://www.local10.com/news/florida/miami-beach/former-miami-beach-official-arrested-on-corruption-charges-1

 

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/miami-beach/article198607234.html

 

What have we learned about her finances?

 

The Watchdog Report requested her 2016 financial and gift disclosures and while the wife went with her husband to many hotels and resorts that were comped state’s the state attorney. Yet on her gift disclosure notarized form she lists “N/A,” which is odd, and the judge lists her net worth at $1.336 million through Dec.31, 2016 and her home is valued at $700,000. She owns $13,300 in guns states her financial disclosure form and she owes J.P. Morgan Chase $787,846 and her salary as a judge was $138,019 and she is the second judge whose husband was busted, and that judge did not remember signing corporate documents. She tells authorities that she was unaware that the hotel stays were free and included at one resort a suite and a VIP ticket to the Bongo Night club at an international resort. Judges don’t get much scrutiny overall but when you see this type of activity it must be called out.

 

>>> ‘Is I don’t remember,’ all one has to say to state to avoid prosecution, it worked for Judge Sarah Zabel, husband charged in $150,000 investment scheme, she unaware, home almost in foreclosure

 

In Miami-Dade to avoid being charged all one must apparently say is ‘I don’t remember [or recall if I signed papers at a bank where a clerk remembers the Circuit Court Judge Sarah Zabel, [where is the bank video?]’. Further her husband was charged with a $150,000 fraud charge after he used the proceeds for personal items and keeping a house from going into foreclosure and the jurist says she knew nothing about the deal and failed to even acknowledge if it was her signature on incorporation documents. For more go to:

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article184872028.html

 

Further, new Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber has been pushing for a IG and this will add impetus but the problem of free meals and other favors is not new and as so many say “what’s the issue everyone is doing it,” and that attitude really flourished after Hurricane Andrew when many residents padded their insurance damage and the federal government wrote off billions of dollars and some of that money kept Miami from going under until later and because Andrew came as the administration was changing the FEMA director back then. He told the WDR once at County hall they “wrote it off,” and few were ever prosecuted for fraud and that planted the seed that what is the issue and decades ago past Miami Commissioners used to eat a many places for free and this is insidious, since when it comes to ethics and honesty ‘you can’t be a little bit pregnant.” the saying goes. Further, if convicted the man loses his pension and other benefits and public servants should remember that fact. For working in public service is not a right but a privilege and that attitude fosters this corrosive behavior of the public trust and must be rooted out whenever it rears its ugly head. Further, so many public servants say what people do on their own time is their own business, but it does reflect on the institution an over the years I have seen many bad behavior examples. And for more on the scandal go to:www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/miami-beach/article198607234.html and here is another take: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/miami-beach/article198607234.html

 

And now there is Lt. Colonel retired Anthony Colmenares stealing $300,000 in donations for veterans, was on county’s military affairs committee along with Pepe Diaz and Lt. Col. Donald Slesnick, II, tony was major face of local veteran’s issues      

 

The FDLE arrest of Antonio Colomenares sent shock waves through the veteran’s community after he was accused of selling $300,000 in donated goods for veterans and he was the veteran affairs consultant in the Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado administration and the WDR has known him for years and was shocked someone like this would defraud a veterans’ charity. Further someone in the comments section questioned how he was wearing his dress uniform and his tie pin but it is another Miami Moment and a sad one foe all those veterans’ who needed the supplies later sold off including MRIs and the man hobnobbed with fellow Marine Jose Pepe Diaz and was on the veterans Affairs committee chaired by Diaz. For more go to

https://www.local10.com/news/crime/u-s-marine-known-as-miami-s-veterans-advocate-arrested-for-grand-theft

 

Troubled Miami Police get new Chief Jorge Colina, wants community policing

 

Jorge Colina is the new Miami Police Chief and the family man wants to do community policing but will have challenges in the sometimes-politicized office over the decades and he is I the first appointment for new Miami manager Emillio Gonzalez, but the department has been an embarrassment with the contamination of the property room under a I 95 overpasses. And the unaccounted-for hand guns gone from the facility and some of the evidence was contaminated and it remains to be seen how he handles Javier Ortiz, who had a restraining order but was promoted to captain and the past chief said it was because of “civil service,” he said a few weeks ago after I asked about the promotion and has been the subject of a few blogs.

 

>>> Knight Foundation injects $2.5 million to fact check news

 

The John S. and James L. Knight foundation has committed $2.5 million to organizations fighting fake news and the idea of fake news. I believe started when Dan Rather of CBS ran a story on George Bush II that turned out to be wrong and after that mistake broke a republican candidate when I was interviewing him said “are you going to Rather me?” I joked back you want me to FOX you instead and that blunder on Rather’s part started the ball rolling and then Brian Williams (who still has a snarky attitude) added to the fire when he embellished his military coverage and saying he had been under fire which was not true.

https://knightfoundation.org/press/releases/knight-foundation-announces-major-trust-media-and-democracy-initiative-to-build-a-stronger-future-for-journalism

https://knightfoundation.org/press/releases/knight-foundation-announces-major-trust-media-and-democracy-initiative-to-build-a-stronger-future-for-journalism

 

>>> Connect Miami is a new program trying to get residents to engage with their neighbors and friends to broaden community interaction something that at times may be difficult to do. And for more go to www.connectmiami.org And Many of the events are free.in the future.

 

STATE OF FLORIDA

 

>>> Gov. Rick Scott is calling in FDLE to investigate what happened with the Broward Sheriff’s Office where some BSO officers at the school hesitated and did not try to stop the shooter with a AR-15 assault rifle

 

>> Press release: Governor Rick Scott spoke to Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Commissioner Rick Swearingen today and asked FDLE to immediately investigate the law enforcement response to the shooting in Parkland. FDLE has confirmed that they will immediately begin their process. All questions regarding FDLE’s process should be referred to FDLE’s Communications Office at Info@FDLE.state.fl.us.

 

 

Gov. Scot changes tone now asking for $500 million in mental health funding a school safety

 

>>> Florida Prepaid has open enrollment, largest in nation with over 1 million parents enrolled ensuring a college education

 

The “Stanley G. Tate Florida Prepaid College,” program is having its open enrollment and it is the largest such program in the nation and was championed by Tate along with congresswoman Ileana Ros Lehtinen, then a Florida senator along with her husband also a Sen. Dexter Lehtinen in the legislature and it is a major success and families have a host of options on how to save for their children’s higher education. And in many ways, is a real bargain and for more go: http://www.myfloridaprepaid.com/

 

>>> The Children’s Trust of Miami-Dade Annual Report is out and to see what the organization has done over the years go to; https://www.thechildrenstrust.org/ and is seen when children have to repeat a grade and results in a large community bubble and County Commissioner Dennis Moss noted when he was in school there was a “Truancy officer,” and they would pick you up take you to school and also “call your mama,” said Moss but that oversite is hard since a parent may be taking care of multiple kids and not able to ensure her children are in school and the lack of literacy was brought home when the County’s Police Department Director Juan J. Perez told a committee when he was in school he spoke no English and was held back an d he said he learned to read ‘real fast after that,” wake up call. And at a county commission meeting the issue of literacy and the lack of it among certain parts of the community had Jean Monestime wondering how he can do more in his own community to foster literacy and the Children’s trust has a host of reading programs throughout the county including in the summer free books being sent to eligible students.

 

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY

 

>>> New County Youth Commission sworn-in, in past “school violence and bullying have been top concerns,” youth speakers more adamant, after Stoneman Douglas massacre

 

A new Miami-Dade County Youth Commission was sworn in at County Hall Wednesday and the 14-member council created under the leadership of Commissioner Barbara Jordan and in the past the council’s type priority was the issue of bullying and violence in the schools. However, since the Parkland High shooting young people are becoming much more vocal not only at the county but also at the city of Miami.

 

U.S. Rep. Fredericka Wilson, D-Miami told the students to “fight,” for your issues at the school board the county or your “local Council,” and the youth seemed very energized.

Further Mayor Carlos Gimenez said county “government is mysterious,” for many people and he said being on the council could change that attitude.

 

Schools Supt. Alberto Carvalho echoed some of those sentiments also at the ceremony the educator said, “these children are tomorrow’s future.” They are the “student leaders and citizen advocates,” and they should spread the message of “peace and respect.” For our hearts beat alike,” he observed on Wednesday at the County Commission meeting. For more on the youth commission go to: http://miamidade.gov/wps/portal/Main/home/!ut/p/c5/dc7LcoIwGAXgZ_EBmPwQAmyTQrkIoo2CsnFCrJRyCRZKHZ–dLr2nOU5iw8VaGkv5roSU6160aIjKqzzi77GkEZukpkHB8I4IEFkJQCpjSJUVK0ql2cenBRxFa086l53jTdwTY_vPmGMrVNXPBiB7zEamiLxaZ1oOucP3GdJk5Ps9qbVBnFv3TAZY1b-XF7xGfjXftvd5bUjtLLbyutDKSe9nJlzcVJmSRFS-bGdUziJcYXyP_ki9Wlg2vFCMzIAY0P4Dg4cQ4j_d3gSCmgTqO4dDU0JnyZd_QKaQNpl/dl3/d3/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/

 

Future, the mayor also spoke at the Miami-Dade County Public Schools board meeting on the efforts to tamp down gun violence. He noted the indicators to take the wrong path ae known “as early as 3 years,” he told the school board and both entities are working closer together than ever before and includes the State Attorney’s Office a federal resources and money and better protocols are being put together. To break the spiral of failing students and poor academic performance, with attendance being a major red flag for these students trying to break the pipeline to jail many students get caught up in.

 

High Technology body scanners are coming to the Miami-Dade department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and these are needed to catch all the “contraband,’ including opioids that have killed some inmates and over the years phones were found in “body cavities,” said the director. However originally the department was going to buy seven of the machines costing $122,000.” But that was changed to three since state law does not allow these machines to be used on visitors and only inmates and the law may need to be changed since jails are a “microcosm of the nation.” And with the opioid epidemic is just another form of contraband.

 

The Miami-Dade County Adrianne Arsht executive director John Richards after a decade in the role is retiring and the man was brought in by then trust chair Ricky Arriola After the twin hall center got off to a rocky start and included its first CEO Michael Hardy telling the county commissioners when asked why the electric bill was so high versus the budgeted number and Hardy said they did “the calculation based on square footage versus cubic.” Commissioner Dennis Moss was incredulous with that response and Hardy was later terminated and Arriola got the director of the Kennedy Center to come to Miami and he put the arts center on firm ground and included a $30 million donation from Arsht to bolster the finances and hundreds of thousands have gone to shows with many for children free since its 2006 opening. To see what is going on go to:

www.arshtcenter.org/Tickets/Buy-Tickets-Now/?utm_source=mail2&utm_campaign=mar2018calendar&cmp=1&utm_medium=email#videoModal Further, the Watchdog Report will miss Richard’s and he did a yeoman’s job and the twin halls have become a major landmark around the world.

 

What about the Independent Review Panel (IRP)?

 

The IRP was dissolved in the Great Recession and it kept many county employees from being fired back then. However, in a major discussion on a sponsored ordinance by Commissioner Barbara Jordan and the commission decided not to not approve a new Independent Review Panel citing the $23 million spent on human resources and $1 million for the human rights department and commissioners felt there were a host of places to file a complaint already including the ethics commission, and the county IG to name a few commissioners considered and if the panel was approved the past Executive Director Eduardo Diaz or his equivalent was slated at $226,000. in salary said budget staffers.

 

What about the BBC Chairman’s Policy Council meeting Thursday?

 

Jim Murley the head of the sea level rise division at the county gave commissioners an update on how the county is working with the 34 municipalities and he has hired an employee to be the liaison with the municipalities some of which have their own water and sewer systems and may have different size pipes (noted Commissioner Bruno Barreiro). He also suggested that Miami-Dade do something that the “Keys,” have done and consider requiring homes to be “built on stilts,” given the low terrain and would be cheaper than trying to raise a highway. Something if done should be only for major “arterial roads,” heading north he suggested at the policy council meeting last week. And Barreiro is a GOP candidate running for congress.

 

It has come to the WDR attention that Miami 21 the new zoning code does not consider sea level rise and risk management is being factored in on the cost of many bonds and could skyrocket as the bond company’s asses any risk. Further, Miami’s Jane gilbert has been contacted by the county’s new outreach officer hired by Murley

 

>>> The master plan for a new civil courthouse was debated at a county committee meeting and, and after 31 years of study, still little progress

 

At the Chairman’s Policy Council last week there was an extensive discussion on how to fund the county’s SMART transportation plan, a new civil courthouse, and commissioners know when it comes to creating a one cent sales tax for transportation and maybe bumping up the gas tax to 2 cents something done in Broward and Palm Beach County.

 

However, transportation maven Dennis Moss said in south Dade any tax increase was dead on arrival and he would “personally, “not support, the increased tax because of the lack of projects completed after voters were assured expansion of public transit options and the funding fell far short of the needed revenue. Moss noted people have paid into the fund but they “did not get what they wanted.”

 

Back in 1999 the county commission put on the ballot a full one cent sales tax suggested by Commissioner Bruno Barreiro which was needed to fund the promises put to voters back then. However, back around 2008 the decision was to “unify,” the revenues and shifted to maintenance and further 34 municipalities get a slice of the half cent revenue and why you have free trolleys in several municipalities and a maintenance of effort requirement by the municipality.

 

However, despite it being a late August vote and a major rain event it went down two to one and only in 2002 did voters finally approve the half cent sales tax based on the public being told more promises and the county is trying to put another too [in the funding mix] l in the tool box,” said Moss and “try to make good on something we promised,” closed Moss. However, endless studies have slowed the progress and Moss believes the past “momentum,” is cooling and he wants to rev it back-up. The CITT trust has a new CEO Javier Betancourt and we need to look at other funding support, said Charles D. Scurr then just the half cent sales tax and it is not growing as fast as expenses rise and the dilemma is how to fund public transportation.

 

What about the crime statistics?

 

Juan Perez the director of the Miami-Dade County Police Department gave an impassioned speech in front of commissioners on the fact that the department no longer has “the jump out boys,’ a nickname given to officers and not an official name and Perez said if that was what commissioners wanted. They have the wrong chief he said because he believes community policing is the only realistic way to go to reduce the murders in south Florida and end the no snitch culture hampering criminals being caught.

 

What did the OIG find back in 2009?

 

Back in 1999 the newly created office of the Miami-Dade County inspector general did an investigation of 30,000 water meters and found some two thirds or 15,000 meters were bypassed, and it was a cottage industry back then and farmers in Homestead were using county water for fields using fire hydrants for the long lines and the report concluded some $30 million was being lost in county revenue through leaks and this systematic bypassing of water meters and is a cottage industry in South Florida. I bring this up because the county has raised the price of water and if you have any leak it will involve serious money and will hit renters hard in the coming years.

 

>>> Further, last year’s annual report is out and it is a fascinating read and the office has saved millions since its creation 20-year ago and to read the report go to:   http://www.miamidadeig.org/ANNUALREPORTS2.htm

 

The Patricia and Phillip Frost Science Museum is having record crowds and a new exhibit called river monsters is on display and for more go to

https://www.frostscience.org/exhibition/monster-fish/

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/business/article190087984.html

 

>>>the Frost Museum also received a significant grant.

 

http://www.frostscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/PHILLIP-AND-PATRICIA-FROST-MUSEUM-OF-SCIENCE-SELECTED-AS-GRANT-RECEPIENT-FROM-RESILIENT-COMMUNITIES-PROGRAM-4-1.pdf

 

And the extra attendance is a good sign that the facility will not bleed the county in operation costs and needed an emergency bailout when funding ran out suddenly and the WDR has been keeping an eye on this after it received $165 million in GOB bond funding passed in 2004. However, I have been sending emails to two county departments and have yet to get final cost of the new community treasure. And us why I am having doubts about Michael Spring and his comments on the Coconut Grove Playhouse.

 

Additionally, I would like to take the opportunity to address an item I see below in the watchdog report titled, “What about the Coconut Grove Playhouse?” Our Department in managing this project on behalf of the County and we have been diligent to put all materials on our website with updates on the project. http://miamidadearts.org/coconut-grove-playhouse-updates

Indeed, the selection of Arquitectonica for the A/E services was a competitive selection process that complied with all County regulations. You can find information on that solicitation here: http://www.miamidade.gov/govaction/matter.asp?matter=150530&file=true&yearFolder=Y2015 ,wrote Lisa D’Andrea-Thompson, LEED AP a staffer in Spring’s office.

 

>> New continuum of care center coming for homeless with mental issues, JHS involved one stop center

 

The Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust along with Jackson Health System is opening a one stop public facility for homeless who qualify for a new diversion program with a mental illness and includes many veterans on the streets and is an old facility previously used by the state, but it will offer a continuum of care and was briefly discussed at the trust board meeting Friday. The whole community has been seeking ways to resolve the mental health issues of the homeless now drawing in people with opioid addiction and a drop of fentanyl can kill and many times is cut with cheap yellow Mexican heroin that appeared years past and is causing thousands of overdoses and the city of Miami spent $150,000 in procuring the miracle drug Narcan that can revive a overdosed person almost immediately and these people cut across all ethnic lines and the issue was discussed Sunday on “This Week in South Florida,” and to see the show go to https://www.local10.com/this-week-in-south-florida/this-week-in-south-florida-oct-29

 

>>> And here is a broader explanation on the new facility Health System – Public Health Trust.

 

“Progress is being made to create a first of its kind mental health diversion and treatment facility which will centralize, coordinate, and provide a seamless continuum of care for individuals, including homeless individuals, who are frequent and high cost users of taxpayer funded services in the criminal justice and acute care treatment systems. South Florida Behavioral Health Network, Inc., DCF’s Managing Entity for administering state substance abuse and mental health funding in Miami-Dade County, will lead the renovation of a former state forensic hospital in Miami which will bring together community-based treatment and social services providers under one roof.

 

The project will include an integrated crisis stabilization unit and addiction receiving facility, various levels of residential treatment, day treatment and day activities programs, intensive case management, peer support and mentoring services, outpatient behavioral health and primary care treatment services, and vocational rehabilitation/supportive employment services. All services will be designed to address the complex and co-occurring needs of the target population, including mental health, substance abuse, physical health, histories of physical and emotional trauma, and risk factors for future criminal justice involvement.

 

The facility will also include space for the courts and for social service agencies such housing providers, legal services, and immigration services that will address the comprehensive needs of individuals served.  By housing a full array of services and supports in one location, it is anticipated that many of the barriers and obstacles to navigating traditional community mental health, substance abuse, and social services will be removed; and individuals who are currently recycling through the justice system, crisis units, hospitals, and other deep end services will be more likely to engage in ongoing and sustainable treatment and recovery services. The Mental Health Diversion Facility is championed by Judge Steven Leifman, who chairs the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust’s Finance & Audit Committee.  The project has been developed with input from the Department of Children and Families and the Agency for Health Care Administration, which will be responsible for designating and licensing service providers at the facility.  The Miami-Dade County Legislative Delegation spearheaded efforts to occupy the building based on a 99-year lease at $1/year.  The facility is funded, in large part, with county General Obligation Bond funds, with additional funding provided by the Jackson Health and The Public Health Trust.

 

During January 2018, Greater Miami’s hotel market ranked among the top five in the Top 25 Hotel Markets in the U.S. as reported by Smith Travel Research. January 2018 Rev PAR (revenue per available hotel room) in Greater Miami and The Beaches increased by +14.3% versus the previous year.  ADR also increased by +7.8% during January 2018.  Hotel room occupancy reached 81.3%, an increase of +6.0% over the previous year.  Hotel rooms sold increased by +6.0% and hotel room inventory decreased by -0.1%. Greater Miami and The Beaches continues to be impacted by global economies, the Miami Beach Convention Center expansion and renovation, and other factors including alternative accommodations.

January 2018 Miami #3 – Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) January 2018 January 2017 % Change vs. 2017 $189.01 $165.31 +14.3%   Miami #3 – Average Daily Room Rate (ADR) January 2018 January 2017 % Change vs. 2017 $232.42 $215.63 +7.8%   Miami #2– Occupancy       January 2018 January 2017 % Change vs. 2017 81.3% 76.7% +6.0%   Rooms Sold January 2018 January 2017 % Change vs. 2017 1,381,863 1,304,143 +6.0%   Rooms Supply January 2018 January 2017 % Change vs. 2017 54,816 54,873 -0.1%

 

What about the Homeless Trust’s Rent Connect program with landlords?

 

The trust has a new program where people with rental housing can register their rental with the county and for more on the program go to: http://www.homelesstrust.org/rentconnect.asp

 

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

 

>>> The School Board Wednesday chose senior administrator Ms. Iraida Mendez-Cartaya, C.P.A. as the interim Chief Auditor

 

The Miami-Dade Counties Public Schools board on Wednesday voted long time school employee Iraida Menendez- Cataya as the interim Chief Auditor an office which is the communities firewall and its effectiveness the audit committee

 

“Yes, the Board voted yesterday and Iraida Mendez Cartaya Was selected as the Interim Chief Auditor. We will now conduct a national search for the position of permanent Chief Auditor, “wrote Board Chair Perla Tabares Hantman staff in response to an email I sent last week.

 

>>> Two Chief Auditor finalists are Trevor Williams and Menendez -Cartaya, both C.P.A.” s

 

Two names re being suggested as the new Chief Auditor and one is Trevor Williams, C.PA. and the other is Iraida Menendez- Cartaya, C.P.A. and is an inter-governmental liaison and she has worked with Deloitte and has a master’s degree from UM. And both candidates gave a clear and passionate reason they should be selected and after doing a search one of them in the future is expected to become the new Chief Auditor of the nation’s third largest public schools district

 

What about the comprehensive annual financial Report (CAFR)?

 

The CAFR for the nation’s fourth largest public schools district was a “clean document,” with no exceptions and years ago this was not always the case and to read the document go to:

http://mca.dadeschools.net/AuditCommittee/AC_December_5_2017/Agenda.pdf

 

PUBLIC HEALTH TRUST

 

>>> PHT board set to pay CEO & President Migoya, $370,000, minimum of four ranges, public health system now drawing paying customers, but still under great financial stress,

 

PHT Comp. minutes COMPENSATION AND EVALUATION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES – May 30, 2017

 

1. Compensation and Evaluation Committee Meeting Call to Order the Compensation and Evaluation Committee meeting was officially called to order by Joe Arriola, Chairman at 9:09 a.m.

(a) Previous committee meeting minutes (June 18, 2015) Motion to approve the previous committee meeting minutes

Joe Arriola, Chairman

Mojdeh L. Khaghan moved approval; seconded by Irene Lipof and     carried without dissent.   2. Employment Renewal Agreement of the President and Chief Executive Officer, Jackson Health System

Julie A. Staub, Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer presented a summary of the proposed Agreement between the Public Health Trust of Miami-Dade County and Carlos A. Migoya, President and Chief Executive Officer (President and CEO) of the Public Health Trust (Trust). The Agreement includes four (4) Exhibits (Performance Bonus, Executive Benefits, Quality Performance Indicators Fiscal Year 2017 and Strategic Priorities/Goals). There were no changes to Exhibit 1, some minor changes in Exhibit 2 having to do with the dollar amounts to the lessor value, Exhibit 3 was changed to reflect year 2017 goals, and Exhibit 4 showed updates to the strategic priorities for years 2017 through 2020. The Agreement is for a two-year term beginning June 18, 2017 through June 17, 2019, with no substantive changes. For purposes of review and discussion the proposed Agreement was distributed at the meeting.

Following the summary presentation of the proposed Agreement the Committee engaged in discussion.

Commissioner Levine-Cava requested clarification regarding the differences between the Agreement two years ago and the proposed Agreement.

Ms. Staub stated that the proposed Agreement Exhibits 2, 3 and 4 noted the changes. Ms. Staub pointed out that Exhibit 2 shows that the line item for the President and CEO to be able to cash out paid leave was removed.

For the record Commissioner Levine-Cava questioned the number of comparisons that were done similar in size and complexity to the Trust.

Ms. Staub reminded everyone that two years ago the Trust participated in a compensation analysis that was done by Integrated Healthcare Strategies. The compensation analysis was completed using peer groups of health systems comparable to the Trust (a national group, an academic group, a Florida State group, and a public healthcare organization group) and based on the outcome of the compensation analysis the President and CEO salary was increased to be at the minimum of the range. Prior to the 2015 Agreement the President and CEO was well below the minimum of a President and CEO pay against all four of these groups. The proposed Agreement remains at $730,000.00 which is at the minimum of the range for a President and CEO across the average of all four of these groups. The comparison analysis showed that the President and CEO is at the 50th percentile on the benefits. Ms. Staub pointed out that the original Agreement terms was developed in 2011, and the 2015 Agreement terms was created to bring the President and CEO to the base salary from $590,000.00 to $730,000.00.

Commissioner Levine-Cava thanked Ms. Staub and the management staff for the briefing prior to the meeting and familiarizing her with changes to the proposed Agreement.

Page 3 of 3

Previous minutes: COMPENSATION AND EVALUATION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES – May 30, 2017

2. Employment Renewal Agreement of the President and Chief Executive Officer, Jackson Health System cont.… Ms. Khaghan stated that following a PHT Board of Trustees Special Meeting which was held about two weeks ago for considering for approval the performance evaluation of the President and CEO, a news article was written by Darryl Chang, Staff Writer and published in The Miami Herald that seemed to imply she stated, “Mr. Migoya will not get a raise.” Ms. Khaghan stated for the record that she did not say anything like that. Ms. Khaghan further stated for the record that her comment was “this is going to the Compensation Committee, but my guess is that Carlos will remain under paid in comparison to his peers.”   Ms. Khaghan expressed her personal appreciation for Mr. Migoya who continues to perform above and beyond within the base salary range.

With regards to Mr. Migoya’s performance Mr. Zarco stated that not only because of Mr. Migoya’s professional background but his ability to engage with other people, act as a leader, the way he carries himself publicly and relates to all facets of business makes him a unique individual. Mr. Zarco stated that under the leadership of Mr. Migoya JHS is moving in the right direction and he is confident that Mr. Migoya will navigate the institution through tougher times it may encounter.

Mr. Arriola stated that when searching for a President and CEO there was not a single person that was interviewed would consider the position for an annual salary under $1 million. Mr. Arriola reminded everyone that the Trust is very fortunate to have a leader like Mr. Migoya who has the trust of the community.

Ms. Lipof stated that the physical appearance of the patient floors has improved, the morale of the employees who care for the patients and employees at all levels have improved which is a true testament to the positive changes that have been made under the leadership of Mr. Migoya.

Following the discussion Mr. Arriola recognized Don S. Steigman, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer who is admired for the hard work that he does and who is considered to the be the legs and engine of the institution.

With regards to the 2017 Legislative Session Mr. Arriola expressed thanks to Representative Bryan Avila for a job well done on behalf of Jackson Health System.

 

3. Resolution Recommended to Be Accepted (a) Resolution approving the execution of an Agreement between the Public Health Trust of Miami-Dade County and Carlos A. Migoya to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer for a term of two (2) years, with two (2), two-year options to renew, for an annual base salary of Seven Hundred and Thirty Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($730,000.00), providing the potential for a performance bonus and providing executive benefits. Sponsored by Joe Arriola, Chairman, Public Health Trust Board of Trustees. Motion to accept the resolution with a favorable recommendation to the Strategy and Growth Committee

Joe Arriola, Chairman: Mojdeh L. Khaghan moved approval; seconded by Irene Lipof and carried       without dissent.

4. Adjournment     Joe Arriola, Chairman at 9:24 a.m.

Meeting Minutes Prepared by   Ivenette Cobb-Black Executive Assistant Public Health Trust Board of Trustees.

2. Annual Performance Evaluation of the President and Chief Executive Officer

 

https://www.jhsmiami.org/WebApps/publicDocs/docLib/PHT_BOT_Meetings_Current/PHT_BOT_OneDayCommittee/2018-02-27%20-%20PHT%20BOT%20ONE-DAY%20COMMITTEE%20MEETINGS%20AGENDAS.pdf

 

What about Ryder Trauma?

 

Florida Legislators need to reaffirm the importance of the Ryder Trauma Center and keep funding for the medical center. Alone of the finest in the world and is the only Class I ER in South Florida and should be nurtured by law makers.

 

>>> Trust continues to have clean audits, challenges continue ahead, closed the year with $30 million budget surplus, 50 days cash on hand, new rehabilitation Center property prepped Friday

 

The PHT trustees meeting was short and sweet Wednesday with the health trust having a “clean,” KPMG audit for last year and the auditing firm has been the trust’s auditor for 7 years but having no audit exemptions is a big deal and back in 2004 under previous management the trust took a $84 million chargeback on past audits going back to the late 1990s.

 

What about the new rehabilitation Center?

 

Migoya said Friday dignitaries were going to start the demolition of buildings on land that will be used for the new rehabilitation facilities long awaited and needed at JHS and is being founded from the $830 million obligation bond passed overwhelmingly by voters after the trust righted itself with help of the unions and currently there are some 1,200 full time workers an there is currently “50 days of cash,” on hand and at one point years ago it was only some 9 to 15 days and put the health trust in jeopardy but Migoya and his team has turned that fiscal situation through efficiencies in the rear mirror.

 

>>> New report on how JHS spending $830 million bond monies, going well

 

Here is the most recent update on the $830 million GOB passed by County wide voters to update the ageing facilities at Jackson Health System and the projects are going very well and includes minority vender participation similar the public schools oversight system and this public money is key to the communities’ health since there is a big push toward prevention and wellness has FIU physicians doing primary and family medicine and is a real boon in keeping healthcare costs down. To read the report go:

file:///C:/Users/DAN%20RICKER/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/8UMCRP67/Mayor-BCC-PHT%20-%20CAC%20Quarterly%20Report%20-%20July%20to%20September%202017.pdf

 

CITY OF MIAMI

 

>>> Commission balks at rubber stamping board for Bayfront Park trust, at large members all Carollo’s choice

 

Commissioner Joe Carollo when it comes to the Bay Front Park Trust, he chairs a watchdog board. He wants to be able to pick all the at Large members on the relatively small board which he says is the “commission’s tradition,” but Commissioner Ken Russell balked at that and he wanted to see resumes” to see Carollo’s appointments.

 

And back in 2000. This trust caught my attention and was then chaired by long serving Commissioner J.L. Plummer and the executive director Ira Katz was later arrested. However, Carollo shot back that he doesn’t remember of needing resumes with past candidates and suggested maybe the “CRA,” chairs not appoint their own board members if an exception can’t be made.

 

Carollo also during a budget update warned given some of the city’s possible liabilities and a potential $120 million settlement with the police and fire unions could send the city in a fiscal spiral and frugality should be the watchword.

 

What about good governance at Bayfront Park Trust?

 

The WDR ears perked up when I heard this about the trust board members and was surprised. Carollo was so serious about having essentially a rubber stamp board. Since he is such a stickler on other matters, but this trust and the MESA board are a Miami back door entity to do projects on the waterfront. That rarely come to fruition such as the Flagstone project. Further his brother Frank had been pushing for a over $1 million German playground set that was a no bid contract and caused discussion among many the board members. Russell also suggested FIU professor Nathan Kurland be on the board the man has been on it for some time and readers will see if Carollo changes his mind.

 

Carollo

Russell

 

What about the Miami Children’s Museum (MCM)?

 

Carollo also went after the MCM director because the not for-profit was seeking some city land about a half acre for a new Autism wing and is offering to also make a park in the land left and would be maintained by MCM saving the city money. Editor’s note: Carollo said his wife had an autistic boy and one Miami Charter school once they heard the “A” word never called his wife back, he told his peers on the dais, and he thought that was deeply wrong he said. Without naming the school. He also reminded commissioners when he left there was $100 million in reserves back in 2001 when Mayor Manny Diaz was elected and blew through a lot of this reserve with the Marlins stadium and the Global Agreement with the county being the final strain on the Miami budget.

 

What about the Forever Miami bond Oversight Board?

 

However, Carollo wanted with MCM to see three property appraisals part of legislation known as “the Carollo Amendment,” that sates any projects on waterfront land must get voter approval and was passed by voters back in 1984. The city’s finances were very aggressive saying. Miami is dependent on real estate and when things are good the city “spends money like a drunken sailor,” and rarely socks anyway in a “rainy day” fund.

 

Carollo wants former Mayor Diaz to tell commission what he thinks of Marlins stadium now, calls it worst deal ever, “total sellout of Miami residents,” says Carollo

 

Dereck Jetter the new owner of the Miami Marlins spoke to the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce Luncheon on his plans for the new team he acquired. “Every player is playing for his job,” he told the crowd and they are going to build a new team from the ground up. He further noted that he is “listening to fans’ and believes some of the new perks given for season holders will help bring fans back.

 

What did Miami Commissioner Joe Carollo say Thursday about the stadium deal?

 

He requested for past Mayor Manny Diaz who crafted the deal while meeting with county officials at the old Grand Bay Hotel in the Grove, getting room service, smoking some cigars and hashed out the financing with then county manager George burgess and recalled Mayor Carlos Alvarez and the county’s budget office also had concerns with the financing package that through the life of the 30-year bond will come out. To some $1.6 billion. and the terms are set in stone and the deal is generally described as tax payers getting “hosed,” is the phrase heard often. Carollo wants Diaz to come to the commission “to explain what he thinks of the deal now.

 

Lotus Village gets a $50,000 Drake donation

 

The Lotus House village since Feb.2, 2018 has 265 women and children at the facility and will eventually hold 500 women and children in the future and the shelter provides much need services for women and their children. And for more go to

http://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/article198995194.html

http://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/article198995194.html and for more go to

https://lotushouse.org/

 

Any update on termed out commissioner Sarnoff?

 

Sarnoff who has been plying the halls of dinner Key and was highlighted in an ad his law firm Shutts& Bowen ran on the back-page of the Miami Herald’s business Monday section touting 11 attorneys many who I know, and I tried to check what items he might be working on and I contacted Miami Clerk Todd Hannon and asked if Sarnoff had registered to lobby with the city and. He responded in an email: “Marc Sarnoff is not a registered lobbyist with the City of Miami, wrote Clerk Hannon. Last week so he maybe is just giving political advice. Sarnoff went to the county’s state of the county address given by a, Mayor Carlos Gimenez with Carollo and the two re friends after Sarnoff helped his campaign raise some serious money and it remains to be seen if this friendship gives the attorney lobbies an edge in the city’s procurement process.

 

>>> Some leaders leave office with grace, others Sarnoff can’t live without the limelight, walking the halls and commissioner’s offices during commission breaks, even had a book done of his achievements something rarely done

 

Some elected leaders leave office with grace, while others still crave the adulation and former Miami Dost. 2 Commissioner Marc Sarnoff at the last commission meeting was shuttling between Commissioners Manolo Reyes and Joe Carollo’s offices and the man in a Miami Herald opinion column last week reminded readers that the issue of affordable housing in the Village West in Coconut Grove and the man who pushed his wife into running for his past office since he was termed out. Further, using public money he christened a book on his accomplishments while in office.

 

What was shocking at a commission meeting?

 

A Over town woman Karen Cartwright gave a blunt assessment of what it is like to live in Overtown calling it a “warzone,” with residents being threatened with AR-15 type of firearms and children are getting used to seeing “dead bodies,” on the streets and Miami Commission Chair Keon Hardeman who represents the area called what is going on “domestic terrorism,” that all the government employees see every day and Hardeman said around the nation Overtown is “known as where someone can get the best drugs,” he said. Yet the area also receives released inmates from county jails and since there is a UM state legislation allowing a “needle exchange program,” the commissioner wondered why the not -for-profit van doing the program resides in Overtown and wondered why this area is so neglected and has “residents in fear.” The exchange was more a pleading for the city to do something about it. He said he was tired of Overtown being treated like a “freak show,” said the chair. Editor’s

 

http://abcnews.go.com/US/story?id=94153&page=1http://abcnews.go.com/US/story?id=94153&page=1 And here is more on Elian

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eli%C3%A1n_Gonz%C3%A1lez_affair

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article124820224.html

 

However, Miami at one point in the 1990s went through ten managers ( and later two managers went to jail) and the city since then has had to defend two bond offerings after the SEC found irregularities and Alphonso and his CFO Chris Rose also a budget guru, will be very helpful if the city’s voters approve a $250 million to $400 million GOB and requires fiscal transparency if the city is to not run afoul of the SEC again, And the Watchdog Report believes they have a gem in the manager and the city is on solid fiscal ground. But Miami has a history of appointing political managers and not based on their skill set and taxpayers should realize after the Great Recession the administration under Regalado has bounced back partially because of the rising tax base given the development of Brickell

 

 

EDITORIALS

 

>>> The Florida Legislature should keep its hands off the 20 counties that have Home Rule Charter local government is better with local leaders but yes not perfect, at least we arrest our own

 

Thank you, Florida Legislature, for requiring at local meetings the public has “a right to be heard and at the county commission and at local municipal meetings law makers are hearing a host of matters many times with the bark on and usually deal with a local community dilemma that might be heard without this new opportunity to be heard.

However, the legislature is wrong to dilute the powers of Home Rule Counties and try to put a state overlay of laws that don’t represent the diversity of the state’s communities and since there are 20 Home Rule Counties local government is always better for residents and voters should let their legislators know they should keep their hands off parenting local government since counties already get beat up in the capital and since Miami-Dade is the state’s largest county with 2.5 million residents and a donor community by some 34 percent of the state’s budget, said the Florida CFO years ago. The state lawmakers should keep that in mind and let local government decide their own legislation regarding issues that affect the local communities.

 

>>> Mayor Suarez needs to lead by example, and be careful who he hob nods with, city needs to tighten-up

 

New Miami Mayor Francis Suarez has a unique chance to change the permissive culture of the city where practically no Miami employee wears their city ID or carries cards. Further, city leaders have to tighten up with whom they associate with and if someone is a convicted felon one might want to steer clear because the mayor sets the tone of the administration and after the last few years things were very loose and who you knew versus your competency, was many times over rode and Miami residents deserve better and every city employee represents all and should never forget that you are a public figure and a public servant something many employees seem to forget.

 

>>> Politicians don’t realize voter’s frustration is they are such hypocrites, many times in their own actions

 

Politicians are always asking for our trust but it is the hypocrisy of their actions that has gone on for years that makes voters jaded and even if voters pass something they then renege on any promises made and the Pet Trust is one such example and for many local politicians who are high maintenance they forget they work for the people and voters should not have to say thank you for running for office which periodically raises its ugly head and that it is a privilege that just sometimes is based on someone getting their resume punched and the idea of political dynasties in the coming 2017 election is not the way to elect our local representatives and the public can only hope that their true colors will not be seen during their time being a public servant. Further, with municipal elections coming. Since you did not run yourself will you at least vote Nov. 7 and make your community a better place with quality elected leaders or have a small minority chose your leaders. It is up to you.

 

>>> The Watchdog Report is soon Celebrating 18 years of weekly reliable publishing since May 5^th 2000 and when I started back then I never thought I would be doing this so this is a national story in all the national Tribune papers: http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2003-01-20/news/0301190045_1_ricker-miami-watchdog. And while I have taken a licking over the years including some medical issues I have kept at the job thanks to my supporters who I thank so very much over the many years. And the community’s public institutions are better when it comes to them knowing what the other is doing. And Why I have tried to be an information electrolyte for these giant institution’s leaders and things and here is a national story done on why I started to watch government back in 2000 http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2003-01-20/news/0301190045_1_ricker-miami-watchdog and to all the people along the way that have helped me I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

 

LETTERS

 

>>> Lotus Village provides vital services for Miami women and children

 

Here is some information about the Lotus Village. In Lotus Village, we seek to create a prototype for the future, in which shelter and services for those in need are fully integrated with the urban fabric of the neighborhood we call home. In addition to offering increased capacity with efficient design and land utilization, Lotus Village will include a holistic neighborhood health clinic and children’s day care and wellness center, serving Lotus House and our community.

 

The shelter facilities in Lotus Village, to be operated by Lotus House, are being designed to accommodate high special needs individuals and families, including programs for youth, elders and the medically needy, a safe haven for those with severe trauma histories, pregnant women and infants, and families of all shapes and sizes. The children’s wellness center will offer child therapy services, nurturing parenting classes, a day care and playground. Food service and dining facilities will include training programs for life skills and job readiness, in addition to meal preparation, dining and a wide range of social activities. A neighborhood health clinic will offer a complement of basic and preventive health care, maternal and pediatric care, eye and dental care, behavioral health and wellness, and a wide range of health and wellness programming for the shelter and our Overtown neighborhood. Deeply integrated in the fabric of our neighborhood, Lotus Village will provide critical linkages to a network of service providers and resources in the larger community, empowering those we shelter and serve to build the foundation for enriched, happier and healthier lives.

You can learn more at: http://lotusendowment.org/about-lotus-village/

>>> The Watchdog Report publisher would like to thank the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation www.knightfoundation.org for funding by the Knight Foundation with technical support from the Knight Center www.knightfoundation.org   to maintain my webpage. The Watchdog Report webpage is free, has no pops-up and is just the news in a mainstream reporting manner.

 

>>>> The Watchdog Report publisher for 16 years now, has reported back weekly on how your billions of public dollars in local government are being spent. And how to help support me providing this information is at the end of the WDR. And I hope you will consider supporting keeping an independent news service out in our community, where what is going on with all our government entities is of critical benefit for both the public institutions but voters as well l. Thank You.

 

And to my Supporters I pledge to keep ‘going when you cannot.’ And we have about $9 billion in GOB funds being spent through a variety of public institutions and that is no small number and in the past I have broken the story on Cuban refugees coming in droves and also the Oriental fruit fly quarantine and its huge economic impact to name just a few of the more recent stories in past WDR’s.And I also keep watch for the all-important tourism industry and with the Zika Virus people are starting to understand how vital these tourists are for a host of amenities like culture and the arts, Jackson health System and transportation dollars all entities that benefit from tourism sales tax dollars.

 

>>> And while the Watchdog Report has reached16 years of using my own money to survive in the costlier Miami community. And while I have cut expenses I need my readers help. In this fast changing world and with Pay Pal now you can easily use a credit card to contribute and I hope you will consider helping keeping someone out in the field. And I have not wanted to be a lobbyist but rather a lobbyist for everyone and is why I use the tag line ‘I go when you cannot’. But things were made worse after spending 18 days in the hospital with a badly infected finger. And is why I am behind sending my traditional thank you letter to any supporters contributing and hop to catch up in the near future. And I thank these people from the bottom of my heart for the past financial help.

 

>>> I just ask any reader, once a year who thinks this community resource is valuable to contribute via my Pay Pal account for the fiscal issues sometimes keeps me from going to a meeting sometimes, and the stress also affects my health and only with my readers support can “I go when you cannot,” thank you and hope you will help so the WDR can celebrate 17 years on May 5^th.

 

>>> And to support the WDR go to my Pay Pal account at https://paypal.me/WatchdogReport

>>>And you can now easily support the Watchdog Report by going to my new PayPal Button account, you know you want to do it at https://paypal.me/WatchdogReport for as media resources contract residents still need to know that someone is also watching out for their interests. Because government watched is a better governing experience for voters and their local quality of life?

 

However, it is no easy task to do the WDR weekly. And years ago the county Ethics Commission did a report that suggested over the past decade some $50 million had been spent fighting waste fraud abuse and public corruption and having the press at public meetings (some very obscure) changes the tone of the meeting (and is why you don’t speed past a state trooper, if you’re smart) Further, I have tried to be an information electrolyte available to all free between these large public institutions when I first started back in 1997. And many public meetings back then were not being recorded except by me and that is no longer the case.

 

For an accurate public record is key and diminishes future legal action. For you either have an accurate public record or you don’t. And I hope you will consider helping me in this effort to keep the community informed and saving taxpayer monies in the process. And I thank my supporters over the last 17 years. And to read a national story and profile of the WDR publisher in the early years and background back in 2003 go to: http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2003-01-20/news/0301190341_1_ricker-school-board-president-miami-s-first-cuban-american        

Publisher’s Statement on the mission of the Watchdog Report and the special people and organizations that make it possible:  Government Subscribers/Corporate Subscribers/Sustaining Sponsors/Supporting Sponsors

 

***** LIFETIME FOUNDING MEMBERS & Initial sponsors since 2000

 

Mr. ANGEL ESPINOSA – (Deceased) owner COCONUT GROVE DRY CLEANER’S

HUGH CULVERHOUSE, Jr (The first contributor)

FLORIDA POWER & LIGHT www.fpl.com .

THE MIAMI HERALD www.miamiherald.com (2000-2008)

ARTHUR HERTZ

WILLIAM HUGGETT, Seamen Attorney (Deceased)

ALFRED NOVAK

LINDA E. RICKER (Deceased)

JOHN S. and JAMES L. KNIGHT FOUNDATION www.knightfoundation.org

THE HONORABLE STANLEY G. TATE

 

>>> Watchdog Report supporters – $2,000 a year

 

BADIA SPICES www.badiaspices.com

RONALD HALL

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY www.miamidade.gov

UNITED WAY OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY www.unitedwaymiamidade.org

 

>>> Watchdog Report supporters – $1,000 to $5,000 a year

 

EIDSON, COLSON & HICKS www.eadisoncolsonon.com

BADIA SPICES www.badiaspices.com

BERKOWITZ POLLACK BRANT Advisors and Accountants www.bpbcpa.com

JEFFREY L. BERKOWITZ TRUST

BERKOW RADELL FERNANDEZ & LARKIN www.brzoinglaw.com

RON BOOK

LINDA MURPHY: Gave a new laptop in Oct. 2001 to keep me going.

WILLIAM PALMER www.shutts.com

Rbb PUBLIC RELATIONS www.rbbcommmunications.com

ROYAL MEDIA PARTNERS www.royalmp.com

SHUBIN & BASS www.shubinbass.com

WILLIAMSOM AUTOMOTIVE GROUP http://williamsonautomotivegroup.com/

 

>>> Public, Educational & Social institutions – subscribers at $1,000 or less

 

CITY OF MIAMI www.miamigov.com.

CITY OF CORAL GABLES www.coralgables.com

CITY OF MIAMI BEACH www.miamibeachfl.gov

CHAPMAN PARTNERSHIP FOR HOMELESS www.chapmanpartnership.org

FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY www.fiu.edu

THE STATE OF FLORIDA www.myflorida.gov

GREATER MIAMI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.miamichamber.com

GREATER MIAMI CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU www.miamiandbeaches.com

HEALTH FOUNDATION OF SOUTH FLORIDA www.hfsf.org

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY COMMISSION www.miamidade.gov

MIAMI-DADE COMMISSION OFFICE OF THE CHAIR www.miamidade.gov

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY ETHICS & PUBLIC TRUST COMMISSION

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY HOMELESS TRUST: www.miamidade.gov/homeless/

MIAMI-DADE COLLEGE www.mdc.edu

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY INSPECTOR GENERAL www.miamidade.gov/ig

MIAMI-DADE PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD www.dadeschools.net

MIAMI-DADE PUBLIC SCHOOLS SUPT. http://superintendent.dadeschools.net/

MIAMI DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY www.miamidda.com

PUBLIC HEALTH TRUST & JACKSON HEALTH SYSTEM www.jhsmiami.org

THE BEACON COUNCIL www.beaconcouncil.com

THE CHILDREN’S TRUST www.thechildrenstrust.org

THE GOOD GOVERNMENT INITIATIVE http://goodgov.net/

THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY LEAGUE OF CITIES www.mdclc.org

THE MIAMI FOUNDATION www.miamifoundation.org

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA http://www.firstgov.gov/

UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI www.miami.edu

 

>>> Public, Educational & Social institutions – subscribers at $1,000 or less

CITY OF MIAMI www.miamigov.com.

CITY OF CORAL GABLES www.coralgables.com

CITY OF MIAMI BEACH www.miamibeachfl.gov

CHAPMAN PARTNERSHIP FOR HOMELESS www.chapmanpartnership.org

FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY www.fiu.edu

THE STATE OF FLORIDA www.myflorida.gov

GREATER MIAMI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.miamichamber.com

GREATER MIAMI CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU www.miamiandbeaches.com

HEALTH FOUNDATION OF SOUTH FLORIDA www.hfsf.org

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY COMMISSION www.miamidade.gov

MIAMI-DADE COMMISSION OFFICE OF THE CHAIR www.miamidade.gov

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY HOMELESS TRUST: www.miamidade.gov/homeless/

MIAMI-DADE COLLEGE www.mdc.edu

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY COMMISSION ON ETHICS and PUBLIC TRUST www.ethics.miamidade.gov  

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY INSPECTOR GENERAL www.miamidade.gov/ig

MIAMI-DADE PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD www.dadeschools.net

MIAMI-DADE PUBLIC SCHOOLS SUPT. http://superintendent.dadeschools.net/

MIAMI DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY www.miamidda.com

PUBLIC HEALTH TRUST & JACKSON HEALTH SYSTEM www.jhsmiami.org

THE BEACON COUNCIL www.beaconcouncil.com

THE CHILDREN’S TRUST www.thechildrenstrust.org

THE GOOD GOVERNMENT INITIATIVE http://goodgov.net/

THE MIAMI-DADE COUNTY LEAGUE OF CITIES www.mdclc.org

THE MIAMI FOUNDATION www.miamifoundation.org

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA http://www.firstgov.gov/

UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI www.miami.edu

 

>>> Publisher’s Statement on the mission of the Watchdog Report and the special people and organizations that make it possible:  Government Subscribers/Corporate Subscribers/Sustaining Sponsors/Supporting Sponsors the Watchdog Report covers a few of the meetings attended weekly. It remains my belief that an informed public will make better decisions. Therefore, I go to meetings, make the presence of an informed citizen known, and bring the information to you.   The Watchdog Report is in the fourth year of publication and it has been an honor to be able to send this information to you. It is sent to readers in Miami-Dade, Florida, the U.S. and the world. The Watchdog Report is sent to thousands free and while readers have been prodded to subscribe the results have been mixed. Over 250 reports and Extras have been sent since May 5, 2000 and over one million words have been written on our community’s governments and events.  The report is an original work based on information gathered at public meetings, interviews and from documents in the public domain. I welcome letters via e-mail. Letters may be edited for length or clarity and must refer to material published in the Watchdog Report.  Please see address and contact information. Please send any additions and corrections by e-mail, fax or snail mail. All corrections will be published in the next Watchdog Report. If you or your organization would like to publish the contents of this newsletter, please contact me. Please send your request to watchdogreport1@earthlink.net

 

Daniel A. Ricker

Publisher & Editor

Watchdog Report

Est. 05.05.00

Copyright © of original material, 2017, Daniel A. Ricker

 

>>> The Miami Herald and Orlando Sentinel & Sun-Sentinel articles on the Watchdog Report publisher over the years.

 

Published on September 9, 1999, Page 1EA, Miami Herald, the (FL)

CITIZEN ADVOCATE’ KEEPS TABS ON POLITICIANS

 

Published on January 3, 2000, Page 1B, Miami Herald, the (FL)

MIAMI-DADE WATCHDOG WILL BE MISSED

 

Published on January 20, 2003, Page 1E, Orlando Sentinel, PAPERWORK TIGER, Miami’s citizen watchdog piles up government files in his quest to keep the “little people” informed. http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2003-01-20/news/0301190045_1_ricker-miami-watchdog

 

>>>Watchdog Report publisher named ‘Best Citizen’ 2003 by the Miami New Times

 

The publisher would like to thank the weekly alternative paper Miami New Times for bestowing their 2003 Best of Miami, ‘Best Citizen’ award to me and I am honored.  Thank you. To read the full story go to http://www.miaminewtimes.com/best-of/2003/people-and-places/best-citizen-6399517

 

>>> General subscriber’s names will not be published in the Report. To subscribe to the Watchdog Report please use the form below as a subscription invoice. ********************

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