Central Florida 100: King’s legacy, the shutdown and Florida’s economy | Commentary

Our panel of 100 influential leaders discusses the most important issues affecting you.

Gary Cain, president, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida

Last week: In these politically divisive times, it’s easy to be discouraged about the state of mankind. But on this eve of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, I choose to be encouraged by the long-overdue pardoning of the Groveland Four, and to celebrate the racial progress that we’ve made in the last 75 years. In our Lake County Clubs, we have a membership that is 30 percent African-American, 40 percent Caucasian and 16 percent Hispanic. The children nestle in side by side for snack and story time, high-five and hug each other on the playing fields — all of which would have been unthinkable when our organization was founded in 1944. Let us be heartened that we are marching, slowly, slowly, but surely, toward King’s dream of a day when a child is judged not by the color of his skin but by the content of his character.

Rudolph C. Cleare, executive vice president, The Negro Spiritual Scholarship Foundation

Last week: The 19th-century Danish theologian Soren Kierkegaard sought to re-introduce Christians to the radical power of a faith that could serve real people in a real world. One hundred years later, Martin Luther King Jr. took up, and was greatly influenced by, the writings of Kierkegaard. The Interfaith Council of Central Florida held a vigil service recently to retell the story of how Dr. King prodded America to face up to the sin of racism and overcome her legacy of slavery, segregation, and discrimination. We were reminded that night not to fall into the error of wishing only to admire Dr. King, but to follow and work to resemble him instead.

Lee Constantine, commissioner, Seminole County

Looking ahead: We Floridians have come from all over seeking a better quality of life. Most of us have little knowledge of the fabric of Florida’s history and culture. Many have never explored the diversity that makes our state unique. Although Disney and other attractions are exciting, nothing beats the natural splendor of Silver Springs, Siesta Key or a Key West sunset. Florida is a peninsula floating on an underground river. We are more susceptible to the changes in nature than probably any other place on Earth. Floridians, get to know your state. A good beginning would be to watch PBS’ special “American Experience: The Swamp,” available on the PBS website.

Earl Crittenden Jr., chair, OnePulse Foundation

Last week: The phenomenal success of Broadway’s “Hamilton” can be measured in many ways. The obvious are its monetary track record and artistic achievements. Its full houses have ignited a younger generation’s interest in theatre, and it delights audiences in ways novel even to theatre aficionados. But Hamilton’s biggest coup is the interest it has generated in Americans going back and revisiting the important early history of our country. Community groups have gathered before history professors in order to learn more about Alexander Hamilton before the production arrives in Orlando. This is the very powerful magic of the arts and why it’s important to keep them well-funded.

Tom Dyer, attorney, founder of Watermark

Last week: Stephanie Murphy just began her second term representing Orange and Seminole counties in the U.S. House of Representatives. In just two years she’s become the leading voice for a group of solution-minded young House members willing to reach across the aisle to advance workable legislation. Last week Murphy appeared on the PBS news magazine Amanpour & Co. to outline her priorities, including health care and affordable housing. Murphy co-chairs the Blue Dog PAC, a coalition of centrist Democrats focused on fiscal responsibility and national security. She’s also vice-chair of the Future Forum PAC, designed to involve millenials in shaping laws.

Glenton Gilzean Jr., president/CEO, Central Florida Urban League

Last week: The CFUL is mourning the loss of Charlie Ings, Orlando’s first black detective and the first black police officer to be paired with a white partner. After joining the Orlando Police Department in 1965, Ings quickly became a beloved and respected member of the police force, building long-lasting relationships with both colleagues and within the community. His commitment to the people of Orlando and to his job will never be forgotten.

Looking ahead: With Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, we should all take a moment to reflect on his legacy and the sacrifices he made to ensure that his dream became a reality. Along with our reflection, we should also take action. Since 1994, Monday has been designated as a day of service: an opportunity to provide a helping hand in the community, support a friend in need or simply perform an action that will better those around us. As King said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Through our service, good deeds and loving thy neighbor, we echo King’s words and make our corner of the world just a bit brighter.

Francisco Gonzalez, philanthropy director, National Review Institute

Last week: With all the talk of “toxic masculinity,” I couldn’t help but think of what kind of men our society thinks we should be raising. And then I remembered that just last week one such man was celebrated for his engagement: Tim Tebow. Gator fans will celebrate him for other reasons, but here is a guy who exudes all the positive qualities of what it should mean to be masculine – and not just for his health and strength. He is a responsible adult who respects women and has now finally found his perfect match. Let’s champion the masculinity of Tim Tebow.

Looking ahead: This week, we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday. Last April, I was able to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his death while in Memphis with several friends, including fellow CF100 columnist Glen Gilzean. Upon my return, I read through Dr. King’s book, “Strength to Love,” a compilation of 15 of his sermons that was a reminder to me that before he was a civil rights leader, Dr. King was a Christian pastor. His faith led him to be the leader this country needed. May we all dive deeper into our souls to find the love our country still needs.

Jeff Hayward, president and CEO, Heart of Florida United Way

Last week: Last week, thousands of federal employees missed their first paychecks of 2019. Just as significant, during the shutdown, janitors, security guards, and other federal contractors will not receive back-pay. Based on the 2017 ALICE Report (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), more than 40 percent of American adults don’t have enough savings to cover a $400 emergency. Furloughed federal employees and government contractors in need of social services and individuals with questions about available public benefits can dial 2-1-1, text their zip code to 898-211 or chat live with a specialist by visiting www.HFUW.org/GetHelp to get help.

David Kay, rabbi, Congregation Ohev Shalom

Last week: Our new governor has pledged to address the burgeoning problem of toxic algae blooms plaguing our state. I wish him and the legislature the will and courage to make it happen. Meanwhile, controversy is blooming over another kind of toxic thing: toxic masculinity. A shaving supplies company reinterpreted it’s famous “the best a man can get” marketing line, and somehow it became polarizing. Just like with algae, there’s nothing inherently wrong with masculinity. It’s when it — or anything else — goes toxic that there’s a problem. “Algae will be algae” isn’t a sensible or constructive response to toxic blooms. “Boys will be boys” isn’t a sensible or constructive response to toxic expression of maleness.

Looking ahead: For the last several years, I’ve had the profound honor of coordinating an interfaith/multicultural celebration of the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., coordinated by the Orlando Mayor’s MLK Commission and the Interfaith Council of Central Florida. The key moment for me each year is seeing faith and worldview leaders of all sorts standing together, bringing a teaching from their tradition and connecting them to the words of Dr. King. It’s uplifting and inspiring, a true feel-good moment. The real question, though, is not how we remember and honor the life and message of Dr. King this weekend — it’s what we choose to do on Tuesday. And Wednesday. And beyond.

Belinda Ortiz Kirkegard, Kissimmee economic development director

Last week: In most counties, there is often infighting between local governments. That’s not the case in Osceola. In fact, leaders from the four Osceola governments met with its State Legislative Delegation this week to discuss the communities’ legislative priorities. This event, spearheaded by the Kissimmee/Osceola Chamber, is a testament to the extraordinary working relationships between our governments. Working together to prepare an agenda which promotes objectives that build up our community! Now that’s good government!

J. Matthew Knight, physician, founder of Knight Dermatology

Last week: Channeling Back to the Future’s Marty McFly, Nike just revealed their $350 Adapt BB self-lacing shoe. Since this is 2019 not 1989, the shoes are smartphone-connected — allowing users to change snugness depending on activity level. You know, like laces, but way cooler. Although the footwear need to be recharged every few days, Nike promises that athletes and weekend-warriors will be able to upgrade their sneakers with new features over time. No doubt, Nike will make buckets of money on their celebrity-endorsed novelty but get ready for this excuse the next time the Magic play poorly: “Coach, someone hacked my feet!”

Looking ahead: There’s something going around social media called the “10 Year Challenge,” where Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter users post pictures of themselves now and 10 years ago. It’s wholesomely narcissistic. Recently, though, a high-profile tech writer mused that the Challenge could actually represent a clandestine data mining operation, meant to perfect facial recognition algorithms. Facebook vehemently denied this improbable claim, but on the heels of the Cambridge Analytica scandal and others, this theory should at least give us a reason to reflect and ponder before posting: who else, besides our friends and acquaintances, stands to benefit from the personal information we share online?

Shelley W. Lauten, CEO, Central Florida Commission on Homelessness

Last week: I know I’m sounding like a broken record, but — our approach to housing IS broken! We need local governments to think creatively about allowing a mix of smaller, less expensive housing — like tiny homes or backyard dwelling units; we need developers willing to find a way to build these homes for people who make less than $35,000 a year; and we need state Legislators to use the Sadowski Fund to do what it was established to do — fund the building of more affordable housing. We will never be a prosperous region if we don’t address our ever-expanding housing crisis.

Looking ahead: I often hear people grouse that our elected officials are in a “Tallahassee bubble” — that they don’t get out and hear what “real people think.” So I’m amazed that we’re spending any time at all debating whether our key government leaders need safe, reliable forms of transportation to move around the state — including having state-owned and operated airplanes to traverse this huge state of ours. To put the size of our state in context, you could fit Switzerland, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxemburg all within the boundaries of the state…and still have room! We should support efficient and cost-effective modes of safe and reliable transportation for use by our key elected officials.

David Leavitt, former Seminole County Libertarian Party chairman, CEO of Refresh Computers

Last week: When we need a new school taxpayers pay for it. When we no longer need the school, then taxpayers buy it again? This crazy scenario is playing out in Seminole County with the Rosenwald School. It seems that the Seminole County Commissioners decided that Seminole County taxpayers will buy the closed school to sell it again “for redevelopment.” Why can’t the school board simply sell the property directly to the highest bidder and leave Seminole County taxpayers out of it? Warning: Seminole County taxpayers could be on the hook for a deal this smelly if all does not go well with the resale.

Ricky Ly, engineer, food writer

Last week: As the federal government shutdown approaches four weeks, the real and dire consequences of this policy are starting to show here in Central Florida. This week, the Orlando International Airport started a donation drive to help workers and their families affected by the shutdown. Also, Second Harvest Food Bank reported an increase of 60 percent over last week of people reaching out to them in need of food assistance. According to a recent United Way report, almost half of Central Florida’s families classify as working poor, meaning many in our community are just one paycheck away from poverty and hunger. If your family needs help, contact Second Harvest Food Bank at www.feedhopenow.org/need and if you want to help or donate, please visit www.feedhopenow.org/shutdownrelief.

Looking ahead: Jaleo, the restaurant by famed chef Jose Andres is set to open soon in Disney Springs, featuring tapas and other Spanish influenced cuisine and joining many celebrity chefs including Morimoto, Rick Bayless, and others in elevating the dining scene here in Central Florida. This week, chef Andres and his nonprofit World Central Kitchen has set up a pop-up kitchen in Washington, D.C., to help feed workers and their families affected by the shutdown. After providing millions of hot meals to people struck by disaster across the world, it is no wonder he has been nominated for the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize. Chefs like Jose Andres and many in our own community use food as a way to nourish not only our body, but also our mind and spirit.

Ted Maines, owner/president,Ted Maines Interiors

Last week: Karen Pence, the nation’s Second Lady, has accepted a position teaching art at Immanuel Christian School in Virginia. In and of itself, that sounds like a wonderful idea. Unfortunately, the school pointedly bans LGBTQ students and teachers. There is no denying that discrimination exists in our country under the guise of religion. Our elected leaders and their immediate families should be sensitive to the issue of discrimination, and should especially avoid discrimination against any of our nation’s children. Another pledge Ms. Pence took by taking this job is to “live a personal life of moral purity”. Let’s see how that plays out.

Anna McPherson, past president, Junior League of Greater Orlando

Last week: This week a 16-year-old boy from Marion County was rescued from an animal-feces covered trailer where he spent the past year as a sex slave lured by someone he met on the online gaming app Discord. Utilizing various communications technology that parents may not even be aware of, traffickers can groom their victims for months using empty promises of a better life to deceive their victims, exploit their insecurities and ultimately lure them away from their families. Luckily, aggressive police work put a stop to this trafficking ring with seven arrests. See something suspicious? Report it to the National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-373-7888.

Khalid Muneer, broker/owner Jupiter Properties Central Florida

Last week: The governor’s removal of Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel should be a reminder of our need to have a well-trained resource officer at each school and the need to put financial resources into this important area of security to give the best protection money can buy to our children. It was reported that Orange County is still approximately 21 officers short of meeting the state law. Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and Chair of the Orange County School Board Teresa Jacobs should be working with Sheriff John Mina on a solution as a priority policy issue.

Looking ahead: Next week it should be clear how hard the shutdown is hitting the government employees. With 52 percent of the population not having $500 in their bank account to meet a financial emergency in the home, to be without a paycheck for four weeks is beyond my comprehension. Let’s hope this insanity ends soon for the hard working folks of this country

Muhammad Musri, president, Islamic Society of Central Florida

Last week: With the longest partial government shutdown in U.S. history, the political game in Washington is taking its toll on federal employees in Florida. About 1,900, or 95 percent, of NASA employees at the Kennedy Space Center are unable to work. Many federal prison workers, TSA screeners, and air-traffic controllers at airports are working without pay, and therefore some won’t be able to pay for mortgages, car loans, and children’s higher education. Already nearly 1,000 federal workers applied for state unemployment benefits, and if the shutdown continues 120,000 veterans in Florida might lose their food stamps. The government shutdown must end now!

Looking ahead: Representative Kim Daniels, a Jacksonville Democrat, introduced a new bill in the Florida Legislature that would require Florida public high schools to offer religion classes as electives following in the footsteps of Texas, Oklahoma, and Kentucky. The proposed classes will focus on Bible study of the New and Old Testaments. While high schools should be permitted to offer courses on comparative religions, they should not be promoting one faith over another. Some in the Christian majority may see this as part of their students’ religious freedom, but what about the religious freedom of all the other faiths and none-faith students?

Pamela Nabors, president/CEO, CareerSource Central Florida

Last week: The Orlando Magic were on something of a win streak (dare I say it!). Granted, it was only a few games, but that’s how all streaks start – stringing win after win after win. Recent victories include felling the Boston Celtics and the Houston Rockets – both playoff teams. Despite having a somewhat dismal past record, it looks like we are still in the hunt for a playoff spot. Great attributes of Central Florida sports fans are that we are both loyal and hopeful! I think the key word moving forward is … teamwork (it has been known to make the dream work!).

Looking ahead: “Oh let us turn our thoughts today to Martin Luther King.” This is one of my favorite James Taylor songs, and it always floats into my head in early January. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, observed this Monday, became a national holiday in the early 1980s. The day honors the incredible work of civil rights activist, Baptist minister, husband, father, and social leader Rev. King, whose words and actions paved the way toward social, political, religious, and financial equality for all Americans. Like any great leader, his work and mission have outlived him. “We are bound together, all men and women…” by his legacy.

Cole NeSmith, executive director, Creative City Project

Last week: The state of Florida has an image problem. It’s the easy target of comedians and humorists. It’s known the world over for its “Florida-man” meme. The antidote of this negative perception is consistent and deep investment in arts and culture. Long-term economic development is in direct relationship to the artistic and cultural offerings of a place. Austin is the destination for loads of tech-industry leaders leaving San Francisco. Art, music, and film festivals like SXSW and Austin City Limits are the primary drivers of making Austin a destination for innovators. Even on a local level, we know that property values rise when artists make a neighborhood a great place to live and visit. On Tuesday, several hundred arts leaders gathered with State Representatives Anna Eskamani and Carlos Guillermo Smith to discuss “The Future of Arts and Culture in Florida.”

Looking ahead: The question is what will happen next? Will Florida legislators invest in the long-term health and viability of our state? Funding for arts and culture has gone from $43 million in 2014 to just $2 million this year. But there is a direct relationship between economic development and arts and culture. A creative and talented workforce demands a place with vibrant arts and culture. These workers are the foundation for the emergence of startups, corporate relocations, and the retention of company headquarters. Florida’s future success is directly tied to our investment in arts and culture today. Will our legislators make the right choice to reinstate funding for vetted arts and culture organizations?

Kathleen Oropeza, co-founder, FundEducationNow.org

Last week: Since 2001, Florida politicians have worked hard to expand the Corporate Tax Credit voucher which diverts tax dollars to pay for private and religious school tuition. The voucherization of Florida public schools chugged along nicely until 2006 when Governor Jeb Bush lost the Bush v. Holmes case declaring his most extreme vision, universal vouchers, unconstitutional. The money for these vouchers came from the Florida K-12 public school budget and could be used for religious schooling, in direct opposition to the separation of church and state. This week Senate President Bill Galvano told a Sarasota business audience that the legislature might be bolder since the newly appointed conservative state Supreme Court might support expanding “education savings accounts,” which is another name for universal vouchers.

Beverly Paulk, founding member, Central Florida Foundation and The Orlando Philharmonic

Last week: Last week delivered some wonderful and varied achievements by women. Nine women graduated in one class of Orange County firefighters/EMTs, the most ever in one class. During a recent football playoff game, my husband watched the action and I watched Sara Thomas, the first female referee in a playoff game. Visit Florida, the state’s heavily-funded tourism corporation, announced its first female CEO, Dana Young, an attorney and former legislator. Savannah Boan at Gatorland was showcased as she handled huge alligators, having fun while educating a large group. One day this won’t be news, but for now it feels good.

Matthew Peddie, host, WMFE’s “Intersection”

Last week: Gov. Ron DeSantis is considering dropping legal action upholding a ban on smokeable medical marijuana. The governor says he’ll give the legislature a chance to get it right, two years after Florida voters approved a constitutional amendment expanding access to medical marijuana. DeSantis indicated that other changes may be coming to how the state treats medical marijuana, including vertical integration, which means companies with a license have to grow, distribute and sell it. The changes could make a big difference both to patients and businesses. And, says Florida’s new agriculture commissioner Nikki Fried, it’s a revenue opportunity for the state.

Looking ahead: The partial government shutdown is having an impact on federal employees – including NASA workers on the space coast. Most of the 2,000 Kennedy Space Center employees have been furloughed, and as space policy analyst Laura Forczyk tells 90.7 News, it’s likely to have a long term impact on the workforce and the science that NASA supports. “Some people are considering leaving their federal employee jobs in order to be able to pay their bills,” says Forczyk. Meanwhile projects like the James Webb Space telescope have been put on hold by the shutdown.

Joseph F. Pennisi, founding executive director, Florida Policy Institute

Last week: To the dismay of many Floridians interested in access to care and better health outcomes, Gov. DeSantis has appointed Mary Mayhew as the state’s new Medicaid director. Those familiar with her tenure in a similar role in Maine, where she gained the nickname “Mary Mayhem,” credit her with decimating that state’s program. Maine went from 8th to 23rd in national health rankings and the state’s infant mortality rate rose under her leadership. More disturbing are recent reports, including federal audits, citing gross mismanagement, record shredding and failure to investigate sexual assaults and deaths of those under her care. Surely Florida deserves better.

Looking ahead: Hopefully the coming weeks will see action on U.S. Senate Bill 21, the Pay Our Coast Guard Act. The legislation would ensure that 4,879 active duty Coast Guard members in Florida receive their salaries during government shutdowns. Sens. Marco Rubio and Rick Scott are co-sponsors of the act. A similar resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives has bipartisan support from Florida’s delegation. In announcing support for the measure, Sen. Scott wrote, “the men and women of our Coast Guard shouldn’t be punished for the dysfunction of Washington.” True that. But, Senator, how about the other 800,000 federal employees and our economy?

Larry Pino, attorney and entrepreneur

Last week: When a business makes what is otherwise a business decision with political consequences, such as shuttering a plant losing money, politicians might care, but it is after all about business. On the other hand, when a business makes a business decision based on politics, such as Airbnb’s decision to remove listings in the occupied West Bank because settlements there are “at the core” of the Israeli-Palestinian dispute, they invite political repercussions. Gov. Ron DeSantis, outspoken in his support of Israel, did just that, announcing two state sanctions, but even more importantly, signaling to the rest of the country that Airbnb’s policy, political in nature, should not be tolerated.

Stephanie Porta, executive director, Organize Florida

Last week: History has proven that when it’s time to protect and support the people of Puerto Rico, a colony of the United States of America, U.S. leaders continue to put corporate greed before the interest of the people. If Judge Taylor Swain accepts the illegally issued COFINA Bonds, working-class Boricuas on the island, who already are in a chokehold due to austerity measures, will surely suffocate; while vulture hedge funds and investors reel in big fat checks on the backs of our brothers and sisters on the island. Let’s end this abuse now.

Looking ahead: More than 50 years after the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was gunned down on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tenn., people of color are still fighting to realize his dream. They still face staggering levels of systemic social and economic inequality, rampant state-sanctioned violence and discrimination. As the Trump administration continues attempts to roll back any advancements in civil rights, on Martin Luther King Day, we all must vow to keep the dream alive.

Joanie Schirm, GEC founding president; World Cup Orlando 1994 Committee chairman

Last week: Often when business people run for election, they say they’ll run government like a private business. Well, it hasn’t been going well lately for that concept if you are a federal employee working without compensation during the shutdown in Florida for the IRS, Customs and Border Protection, Environmental Protection Agency, Federal Communications Commission and more. While rejecting arguments from labor unions that unpaid work violates labor laws and the Constitution, a federal judge said: “the judiciary is not and cannot be another source of leverage” in resolving political “squabbles.”If a private company refused to pay workers, would a federal judge say it’s OK? Let’s elect people who understand government’s role.

Looking ahead: Suicides on the Skyway Bridge in Tampa may soon hit a 15-year-high. Luckily one man’s life was saved by a skilled Florida Highway Patrol trooper who talked the man out of jumping by sharing their commonalities about family and children. As the Florida Legislature prepares to address Florida‘s budget, isn’t it time we dramatically raise the funding for mental health programs well above the bottom of all the states where Florida consistently sits year after year? As the recommended remedies to stop school shootings include beefed-up mental health programs, let’s stop ignoring the need to improve Florida’s mental health for the young and old.

Ed Schons, president, Florida High Tech Corridor Council

Last week: While there may be concerns about the global economy as the U.S. tries to negotiate with China and the British try to figure out how to exit the European Union, we are fortunate that the outlook for Orlando’s economy in 2019 is encouraging. UCF Institute for Economic Competitiveness director Sean Snaith told the Sentinel last week that “2019 is about momentum” that will carry us through the year with consistently strong growth – “some of the strongest in the state.” Economists like Snaith predict growth in construction, professional services, finance, manufacturing and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields.

Rick Singh, property appraiser, Orange County

Last week: Heartfelt congratulations to Aquatica Orlando! SeaWorld’s water park has been named a certified autism center, along with Sesame Place. These locations cater specifically to the needs of visiting families who may have a member who deals with a cognitive disorder. In addition to ensuring that their employees are trained in autism sensitivity and awareness, both Aquatica Orlando and Sesame Place provide guests with attraction information to make better choices about their plans. There are even quiet rooms with adjustable lighting for visitors to take a break. What a wonderful inclusivity statement – and a welcoming message to these guests with special needs.

Looking ahead: Early estimates indicate that Florida will again this year lead the nation in ACA signups, with 1.78 million Floridians making up about 20 percent of 8.4 million signups nationwide. And that Florida number will grow as residents of the northwest areas hardest hit by Hurricane Michael were granted additional time to complete their applications. The response by Florida’s citizens to sign up for ACA indicates that they value health insurance, and that health insurance through an employer is not feasible or available. In our region, premiums can be a challenge to add to a budget built on income from a service wage sector job, or even multiple part-time jobs. I hope our new Tallahassee leadership will take these issues into consideration when addressing healthcare in Florida.

Michael Slaymaker, professional fundraising executive

Last week: For a charity to solicit federal employees they need to complete a Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) application. Until 2017 it was free to nonprofits. Now the Office of Personnel Management is charging local charities $625 per charity per CFC. There are approximately 2,904 charities listed in last year’s directory. If the Central Florida CFC needs $1.8 million to conduct the campaign (Brevard would collect a separate $1.8 million), we all need to apply to work for the CFC. Doesn’t matter whether or not the TSA agents or postal employees give or not, the CFC still charges. Ick.

Kannan Srinivasan, president, Asian American Chamber of Commerce

Last week: Florida saw close to 200 venture capital deals last year. Florida has not seen more than 200 venture capital deals in one year since the dot-com bubble nearly 20 years ago. Last year Inc. magazine ranked Orlando No. 9 overall for the 50 best places in America to start a business. Plus, the City Beautiful was No. 1 in job creation and second in population growth. The city also is host to business pitch competitions with venture capitalists in attendance, various meetups from National Entrepreneur Center, Orlando Tech Association, Orlando Tech & Beers, Black Orlando Tech and Chambers of Commerce.

David D. Swanson, senior pastor, First Presbyterian Church of Orlando

Last week: This past week, the Orlando Magic did something we’ve rarely seen in the past few years: they had back to back wins over top NBA teams! The Magic have been an integral part of our community since their inception, providing significant charitable dollars to numerous causes while pumping life into our downtown economy. You want those you love to succeed, so here’s to their continued victories — on the court and off!

Looking ahead: As we remember the legacy of Martin Luther King this week, I am hopeful for the growing work of Orlando Together. Formed 18 months ago, their goal is to “undermine racial divisions wherever they are found” and they accomplish that by fostering relationships in our local community. They help groups examine the racial history of our city, how we have arrived here, and what can be done to move against current structures that foster division. Let’s keep working for that dream!

John Thedford, entrepreneur, founder of SMART Financial

Last week: This week approximately 800,000 government workers and contractors felt the impact of not receiving a paycheck. News reports focused on the financial distress of those not receiving pay, but what the media didn’t report is that nearly 25 percent of Americans do not have any emergency savings. It’s not always the low wage earners who have no emergency funds. One in four of the highest earners either have no emergency funds or only enough to cover a few months of expenses. 30 percent of baby boomers aged 54 to 63 have little or no emergency funds. Let’s hope this standoff between Donald Trump and Nancy Pelosi ends soon.

Daryl Tol, president/CEO, AdventHealth’s Central Florida Division

Last week: This past week, we were pleased to join the City of Orlando, Orlando Health, Dr. Phillips Charities and the Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation to celebrate the renovation of a new facility and a major expansion of services at Grace Medical Home, which provides charitable care for Central Florida’s uninsured. Along with construction costs, the partners’ gifts will fund mental health, spiritual care, pediatrics and dental programs. I’d like to thank the partners who joined us in supporting Grace Medical Home — and the many members of our community who generously donated — for helping Grace fulfill its mission of providing care to those who might otherwise go without.