Looking ahead to this week

Kathy Koch, president, Ambit Advertising and Public Relations

Technology can bring out the worst in humanity. Cyber crime (hackers), computer viruses (programmers), identity theft (Medicare just redesigned cards without Social Security numbers to protect seniors from criminals targeting their benefits.) Facebook announced advertisers can no longer target anti-Semites by directing messages to people who expressed interest in “Jew hater.” (Why is the category “Jew hater” even available?) It’s startling to think how many individuals spend hours trying to “break in” to systems resulting in harm to millions. We’re working to create processes to protect ourselves. The bigger question is: How can we create a mindset of human kindness?

Ina Lee, president Travelhost Elite of Greater Fort Lauderdale

Tourism was certainly impacted by Irma and the non-stop dire images that were broadcast around the world. Our Convention & Visitors Bureau has a plan to get positive messages out to our key markets both domestically and internationally. However, we need the help of our community to let family and friends know we are open for business; the sun is shining; our beaches are beautiful and this is a great time to visit. Please remember that tourism is the driver of our economy and thus is everyone’s business.

Tom Shea, president, Right Management

With dozens of cities competing for Amazon’s second headquarters, the online giant’s location search seems a bit like a beauty contest — with high economic stakes. News that Fort Lauderdale and Miami will strive to be in the running for the headvide quarters’ projected 50,000 jobs is to South Florida’s credit. It should be fascinating to watch cities nationwide vie for the opportunity.

Sandra BernardBastien, chief communications officer, Children’s Services Council of Broward County

You may not realize it, but many of your colleagues and co-workers are Caribbean-born and/ or still have family there. Be gentle and kind to them in the coming weeks, since they are heartbroken and worried about the destruction Hurricanes Irma, Jose and Maria have wrought in the region. Please reach out and ask their advice before you decide to donate to a “hurricane relief fund,” since not all international agencies are as efficient there, as they are here.

Marty Kiar, Broward County property appraiser

As a result of the devastating effects of Hurricane Irma, Gov. Scott issued a directive to the Office of Insurance Regulation stating that property insurance companies must “freeze any and all efforts to increase rates on policyholders for 90 days.” Even with this clear directive, the Sun Sentinel reported that the Office of Insurance Regulation can still approve rate-hike proposals filed before this directive was issued and could take effect within the 90 days. Allowing for rate increases during a time when residents are attempting to get their lives back in order is unfair and insensitive.

Ghenete Wright Muir, attorney, realtor, LGBTQ advocate

We will be consumed with the stories of those hurt by hurricanes and earthquakes. America and other countries that frequently frolic in these now devastated destinations need to pro- funds and volunteers to ensure a swift recovery. The LGBTQ community will continue to have their eyes on the lawsuits filed against the president for banning transgender troops. With all the trauma and tragedy, we still need to take the time to take care of ourselves: go to the beach, the art show, meditate, spend time with loved ones — find your calm in the chaos.

Mike Ryan, mayor, Sunrise

Long before Irma, cities took steps to have debris removal companies contracted and pre-positioned in case a storm hit. Cities negotiated prices and did everything correctly to best ensure FEMA reimbursement for the millions of dollars spent for debris removal. Cities expected to clean up immediately. But Hurricane Harvey and the broad impact of Irma, changed the game. Debris removal companies aren’t sending the trucks they promised. They are refusing to remove debris because they have gotten better pricing elsewhere. FEMA says cities can pay more but may not get reimbursed. We need state and federal action now.

Chuck Shaw, chairman, Palm Beach County School Board

While the state and nation watched Mother Nature battle us, for a few weeks our story will be the inept Congress — full of pettiness, ego, incompetence and selfishness. I would hope for the story to be one where they actually did something without bickering and blaming each other. We have real issues that need statesmen to be our moral leaders and work on behalf of all of us. I often think there is a bubble over Washington that lets in no air and nothing goes out. Puncture the bubble and get to work.