THE TOP STORIES LAST WEEK
Dick Batchelor,
The Central Florida Urban League hosted a community conversation on race and religious prejudice joined by the Holocaust Resource Center, The Islamic Society, African-American Christian Clergy, the NAACP and the African-American Chamber of Commerce in hosting hundreds of people for a conversation asking — “Where do we go from here?” The panel included Pulitzer Prize winner Gilbert King, as well as many representatives from the faith community, the judiciary and Orlando Sentinel columnist Shannon Green. The occasion was not simply to start a conversation, but to define specifically what can be done. This conversation must continue.
Lee Constantine,
In 2003, Gov. Jeb Bush established the Wekiva Commission tasked with building the beltway while protecting the river. That commission’s efforts have been lauded as an example of how, working together, successful outcomes are achieved. Now, the Legislature seems intent on building three expressways in the heartland of the state. These toll roads would consume vast agricultural and rural lands, much of which is critical for conservation. Without careful planning, horrific sprawl would occur while spending scarce dollars which could be used for schools, etc. If approved, the legislature must use the Wekiva example, i.e. limited access, protection of resources and a task force with representatives from all affected interests.
Tom Dyer,
Anyone who’s been to a local karaoke bar can attest that Central Florida is knee-deep in talent. Three standouts have made it to the final rounds on “The Voice” and “American Idol.” Seventeen-year-old Alyssa Raghu starred in a production of “In The Heights” at Lake Nona High School. She is one of 10 finalists on Idol. And over on The Voice, Mari, 20, and Selkii, 31, just made it through the Cross Battles. Selkii is an Orlando-based cruise ship entertainer, and Mari is a hairdresser who sings at The Lord’s House church in Clermont. Go girls!
Rogue Gallart,
When watching TV, do you ever think: Why, in “Game of Thrones,” don’t these people just get along and stop fighting? Or why in “Westworld” the humans and Westworld’s hosts can coexist? Well, “Sesame Street” and HBO are running a crossover campaign to “Respect one another” which includes such memorable characters as Cookie Monster and Elmo. The videos are part of Sesame Workshop’s “Respect Brings Us Together” campaign, which includes videos with nods to “Westworld” and “Game of Thrones.” In times like these, we can certainly take a page from Elmo and Cookie Monster. Joel C. Hunter,
The headline “After Paris fire, donations soar to help 3 black churches in La.” was inspiring! To link the burning of the building known for its grandeur and nobility with the burning of three rural houses of worship in Louisiana, known for their service in the midst of prejudice and disregard, is the best of faith. Both the highly regarded and the humbly respected stand equal in God’s sight and should be connected in our hearts. In a country and a community where racism still damages people, these donations remind us we still have more than prayer for hope.
J. Matthew Knight,
Israeli scientists reported that they “3D-printed” a heart using a patient’s own stem cells. The researchers extracted fat from a patient, reprogrammed the tissue to become cardiac cells, and grew the material into a rabbit-sized heart replete with blood vessels and ventricles. This breakthrough means that, in a not-too-distant future, doctors may be able to patch or replace failing organs with personalized tissue created at the press of a button — without need for transplant lists or powerful anti-rejection medications. While this technology is not ready for operating rooms yet, the implications for human longevity are astounding.
Cole NeSmith,
A huge round of applause to Robert Hill, artistic director of the Orlando Ballet. Arts and community leaders, artists and supporters of the Ballet gathered to celebrate Hill’s 10th anniversary at the organization. Hill has led the ballet creatively over the last decade. And, in many ways, he has served a larger role in keeping the organization moving forward. In the last two years, a stronger organizational structure has been cultivated to support Hill’s artistry thanks to the efforts of the Ledden family. With new executive director Shane Jewell in place, Hill’s artistry will surely thrive, taking the Orlando Ballet to new heights.
Craig Ustler,
The trimming and removal of several older palm trees along Edgewater Drive calls attention to the need for urban design improvements to one of the city’s best “main streets.” College Park is a great example of an urban mixed-use district with healthy small businesses, a diversity of housing options and an engaged group of stakeholders. The city has noted that there is a plan being developed by MetroPlan Orlando to upgrade Edgewater Drive into a “complete street” with a focus on walkability, landscaping and other enhancements of the public space. Such improvements are needed and would make Edgewater Drive a great street serving as a valuable community asset and the backbone of this beloved neighborhood. The sooner these plans are implemented, the better.