Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation recognized for philanthropic work
The Fort Lauderdale/Broward Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals announced the outstanding organizations and individuals who will be honored at the 2011 National Philanthropy Luncheon, an event honoring area philanthropists. The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation was awarded Outstanding Foundation during National Philanthropy Day, part of AFP’s worldwide celebration of philanthropy during the month of November. Over the past 23 years, the Fort Lauderdale/Broward chapter has honored more than 100 individuals and organizations for their significant philanthropic contributions to the local community.
Michelle Obama will be in Davie
Michelle Obama will be in Davie on Oct. 27, following a day of campaign fundraising in Jacksonville and Tampa, for a dinner and reception to help the president’s re-election. The event will be at the Signature Grand and tickets start at $500. This will be her first visit to Broward County.
Smoking ban lifted for Florida prison employees
This month, prison officials lifted a smoking ban in Florida prisons. Now, prison officers, employees and visitors can smoke outside of plain view of inmates. The decision was made by Correction Secretary Ken Tucker after resistance from the union representing correctional officers. The ban had been placed by former prison chief Ed Bus, who was replaced with Tucker by Gov. Rick Scott in August.
State law to drug test for welfare applicants temporarily blocked
On Oct. 24, a federal judge issued a temporary injunction, blocking a state law, which requires welfare applicants to pass drug tests before receiving funds. Judge Mary Scriven ruled that the law could infringe on applicants’ Fourth Amendment right, which prohibits illegal search and seizure. The law was signed into measure by Gov. Rick Scott on May 31 and testing began in mid-July. Nearly 1,600 applicants have refused the test since the law was enacted.
Libya declared liberated
On Oct. 23, following the death of Muammar Gaddafi, Libya’s interim leaders declared the nation’s freedom. Elections will follow in the coming months to elect a congress that will create a constitution for the new Libyan government.
Jurors’ names revealed from the Casey Anthony trial
On Oct. 25, the jurors’ names from the Casey Anthony trial were released to the public. None of the jurors, all Pinella’s county residents, were obligated to discuss the case with the media. The juror rendered a controversial not-guilty verdict of Anthony, who was accused of killing her 2-year-old daughter Caylee.
