Looking ahead

Andrew Duffell, president, Research Park at Florida Atlantic University

Looking forward, the loss of Capt. (USN, Ret.) John McCain will be felt across American politics as political civility goes by the wayside. Sen. McCain brought a sense of optimism and positivity to all his endeavors in the public square and we would all do well to emulate him in our policy debates. If we all sought to do right by the United States at every turn, and to respect each other as individuals and fellow citizens, I think we would honor the late patriot’s legacy and make him proud. This grateful immigrant citizen bids him a fond farewell.

Ghenete Wright Muir, attorney. Realtor. LGBTQ advocate

It’s not over! Everyone who voted last week needs to vote again in November. If you’re eligible, you should vote and encourage others to vote as well. You can vote by mail, vote early and of course you can vote on Election Day, Nov. 6. For details, visit the Broward County Supervisor of Elections website, browardsoe.org. Jackie Powell and Stefanie Camille Moon both won their judicial primaries with less than 50 percent of the votes, which means they will have a runoff election with their respective opponents. Democrat Andrew Gillum—our historic primary winner—needs all of our votes to bring it home.

Sheldon Harr, founding rabbi emeritus, Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El

When I was raised “up north,” Labor Day marked the end of summer and the beginning of school. In Florida, Labor Day seems to mark a renewed possibility of hurricanes and the continuation of a hot and humid summer. No changing leaves. No chilly evenings. However, a time to pause and pay homage to America’s laborers — jobs and professions, large and small, that make up the amalgam of the American work force — the best in the world! To those of you who labor with honesty and integrity: thank you for your contribution to America’s society.

Frank Ortis, mayor, Pembroke Pines

While Labor Day has come to mark a three-day, end-of-summer weekend, it’s supposed to be the day we honor American workers and their contributions to our country’s strength and prosperity. But has the significance of this day been lost? The day no longer honors all workers. Retail sales keep workers in stores, vacation plans keep workers at airlines and airports, and hospitals, restaurants, police, fire and a myriad of other workers actually work that day. It’s different from 1894 when Labor Day began. However, when you’re out and about, remember the workers around you are a value also.

Pastor D.H. Dawkins Sr., Praise Tabernacle International

As school is back in session, it can be frustrating for our educators to keep up with the peripheral duties that invade their focus. It’s to the point where teaching is the thing teachers get to do the least. Instead, the focus is on data, scores & integrating the latest technology. There’s a list of many other things as well. This year I hope teachers will speak up.

Nan Rich, member, Broward County Commission

Congratulations to the 64 percent of Broward voters who passed the School Board referendum. The funding, $93 million for each of four years, will provide an increase in salaries for teachers and school related staff, additional school resource officers, and more guidance counselors and mental health programs and resources for students. The District’s millage rate is one of the lowest of all major Florida school districts. These dollars will enable BCPS continue their commitment to educational excellence for our students, securing our schools, and recruiting and retaining high quality teachers.

Archbishop Thomas Wenski, Archdiocese of Miami

We are addicted to “outrage.” The internet and cable news support a whole industry devoted to “outrage” — which could be defined as talk designed to provoke emotional responses — anger, fear, moral indignation among others. It is sustained by overgeneralization, sensationalism, inaccurate information and “ad hominem” attacks. This is not to diminish or deny the grievous wrongs like sexual exploitation of minors or women that have shaken our societal institutions. But do bloggers who use outrage as click bait or cable news talking heads to grow audiences (and advertising revenue) get us closer to finding healing and justice for the aggrieved?

Jennifer O’Flannery Anderson, VP/ community relations, Nova Southeastern

Aside from the election results and the passing of Sen. John McCain, the actual death toll in Puerto Rico from Hurricane Maria hit home to me. As we approach the one-year anniversary of Irma and Maria, it was heartbreaking to learn so many lives were lost and initial estimates were so far off. It is a powerful and painful reminder of the significant infrastructure needed in place long before a storm approaches. We also must be sure our own personal storm preparation is complete and that we look out for others around us.