THE TOP STORIES LAST WEEK
Celebrating Demings
Dick Batchelor,
As children growing up in Orlando, we always looked forward to the annual Christmas parade, mostly to see Santa Claus, the Jones High School Marching Band and Sheriff Dave Starr. To a young kid, Starr seemed larger than life because he wore a western-style outfit complimented by elaborate cowboy boots and a six-gun while riding a horse. After Sheriff Starr retired in 1972, we came to learn that he was a member of the Ku Klux Klan. In 1998, the first African-American police chief of Orlando was sworn in. In 2008, the first African-American sheriff was elected. And this week, this very same man, Jerry Demings, a graduate of Jones High School, was sworn in as the first African-American mayor of Orange County. The kids now can celebrate the Jones High School Marching Band, Santa Claus and Mayor Jerry Demings. This should make us all very proud.
Mass-transit plans
Tom Dyer,
It may be wonky, but the outlines for an expanded masstransit system are taking shape. Last week, Brightline received state permission to negotiate with the Central Florida Expressway Authority for land along I-4 to add passenger rail service from Orlando to Tampa. The 80-mph trains would connect with Brightline’s planned Orlando to Miami route at Orlando International Airport. Importantly, the route to Tampa would include stops at SunRail’s MeadowWoods station and at State Road 417 near Disney. With accommodations, millions of fly-in travelers could reach their final destination by rail. And SunRail passengers would be connected to the airport.
State football in Orlando
Glenton Gilzean Jr.,
While all residents of Orange County would love to be cheering on at least one local team at this weekend’s high-school football state championships in Orlando, as proud Central Floridians, we humbly welcome the teams and their families from around the state to our community. In the midst of all the excitement of victory or heartbreak in defeat, I hope that every athlete walks away with their heads held high. As a team, you represented your school and community with pride. As athletes, you excelled and every one of you contributed to your team’s success. It might not be immediately evident, but high-school athletics build character and teach youth valuable lessons that will serve them well for years to come.
Judd and Polk County crime
David Leavitt,
No victim. No crime. Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, in his relentless pursuit of busting people for “moral crimes,” seems to be confused about what a victimless crime is. The Polk County Sheriff ’s office was at it again last week, smearing the good names of people whose only “crime” was having private sex with a consenting adult. Sheriff Judd blurs the “offenses” by throwing in ghastly terms such as “human trafficking’” as if that real crime has anything to do with the dozens of adults arrested for simply exchanging money for services. If the Sheriff ’s department concentrated on real crimes with victims, such as human trafficking and juvenile sexual predators, then they would be doing the community a real service.
Biking looks bright
Anna McPherson,
Oranges and limes are covering our streets; not the fruit — the bikes. The approval of a new ordinance in October permits “dockless bikes” for a one-year pilot period. It also states that bikes can’t be parked in places that block traffic, pedestrians or handicap-accessible ramps. With the ordinance’s approval, Lime Bikes has moved into the area and together with the “Juice” bikes in their signature orange color, Orlando has quite the brightly colored two-wheeled transportation. We’re in a great place for two-wheelers to take off — with decently comfortable outdoor weather (save for August) and flat terrain, it’s not impossible to bike everywhere, just keep an eye out for the motorists.
Historic home moves
Brendan O’Connor,
A historic home was hauled a couple of blocks through Lake Eola Heights to make way for a new condo development. The idea was to preserve the building while still freeing up the space for something new. It’s interesting to note that while the home was preserved, the corner is no longer considered part of the historic district.
Local agencies need our contributions now for helping their clients, not Dec. 23. Bikes, toys, baby supplies, sports equipment, clothes, nonperishable food, gift cards, and so on given by Dec. 17 will get to the children and adults carefully identified most in need. Hope CommUnity has a 15th deadline for its fabulous children’s Toy Store for 500 families. Harbor House and all domestic-violence shelters have specific needs for each family plus general needs. Also Seniors First, Orlando Union Rescue Mission, homeless agencies, schools, and food pantries should be topping our shopping lists this week. See websites for details.
SpaceX benefits area
Larry Pino,
With the launch of its 19th rocket this year, SpaceX has officially become the market leader in deployment of reusable yet powerful rockets. Monday’s launch of a Falcon 9 rocket, for example, carried a cluster of five dozen small satellites, the largest number ever stacked on a U.S. booster. That was followed by Wednesday’s launch, its 20th, which successfully sent NASA cargo to the ISS, although the booster rocket was required to be retrieved after crash-landing in the ocean. The bottom line is that the rapidly accelerating launch tempo highlights the massive economic benefit this privatesector company will contribute to both our region and our state in the coming years.
Honoring 41st president
John Thedford,
Our 41st president was laid to rest. A patriot, war veteran, Yale graduate, humanitarian, vice president and two-term president, George H.W. Bush was truly a servant of the people. A man of great character, his accomplishments were many both nationally and internationally. He brought a dedication to traditional American values and wanted to make the United States “a kinder and gentler nation”. President Bush had ambition, a competitive nature, the courage to make difficult decisions, and he possessed practical wisdom. He was a natural-born leader. As a native Texan, I want to thank the Yankee transplant who served our country well. Rest in peace, Mr. President.
Van Gundy helps community
Craig Ustler,
I’m not sure how most retired or out-of-work NBA head coaches spend their time, but Central Florida is certainly fortunate to be the home of Stan Van Gundy and we benefit from his commitment to our community. I enjoy listening to Van Gundy’s weekly “The World According to Stan” segments on Mike Bianchi’s sports radio show. The commentary is thoughtful and honest, often extending well beyond sports. Van Gundy actively supports a variety of civic and charitable causes, including the Boys & Girls Club. He is known as a well-versed political advocate on a variety of issues. At Stetson University, Van Gundy is teaching a sports business and leadership class as an adjunct professor. I always thought Van Gundy did a good job as the head coach of the Orlando Magic and appreciated his candor. I’m glad he has come back to our community and proven to be an involved and impactful citizen. Thanks, Coach.
Keep Central Florida safe
Carol Wick,
New information has emerged about potential dangers to tourists in Jamaica and Costa Rica. For some time, we have seen stories that have filled social media about dangers at resorts in Mexico. In Central Florida, tourists are important to our economy. This week, John Mina was sworn in as the new sheriff and our former sheriff, Jerry Demings, became Orange County mayor. With leaders who have, as their background, public safety, it’s time to address sexual assault and a strategy to hold the predators who prey on women and tourists so that Central Florida does not lose its reputation as a safe, family friendly destination.