The top stories last week

Dean Trantalis, mayor, Fort Lauderdale

Our community suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Skip Campbell. As a State Senator and as Mayor of Coral Springs, Skip Campbell embodied the ideals, principles, and spirit of public service. His distinguished leadership, compelling vision, and meaningful contributions to shaping the growth, development, and direction of South Florida and our State were beyond reproach, while his willingness to respectfully reach across the aisle was a hallmark of his effectiveness as a lawmaker and statesman. On behalf of the City of Fort Lauderdale, we offer our sincere condolences to the Campbell family during this difficult time.

Lauren Book, Florida state senator

After his time as Senator, Skip Campbell could have sailed off into a very comfortable retirement. But he didn’t. Instead, Skip Campbell chose to serve the city he loved. He returned home and was elected as Coral Springs’ mayor where he served with distinction. How amazing that a man of his wealth and stature never forgot his roots or lost the desire to serve his community. You were one of a kind, Senator Campbell, and I am so honored to have known you. Those of us in public service have so much to learn from you. I already miss you.

John “Jack” P. Seiler, former mayor, Fort Lauderdale

Coral Springs, Broward County, and the State of Florida lost a true legend with the sudden passing of Senator Skip Campbell. Skip had an incredible career in public service as a highly respected and distinquished State Senator and then Mayor of Coral Springs. Skip had an amazing career as a prominent trial lawyer successfully representing the interests of thousands of individuals and families. Most importantly, Skip spent his life selflessly giving back to people and causes, always helping others while building community, passionately seeking fairness and justice for all, admirably leading by example, and simply being a genuinely good guy.

Michael Ryan, mayor, Sunrise

The passing of my friend, political colleague and law partner, Mayor Skip Campbell. He valued his faith, family, public service, roots, friends and fighting for those against whom the odds seemed stacked. Fiercely passionate about justice, he was a giant in the legal community. He served in the Florida Senate when reaching across the aisle was valued, not a derogatory label. He had a gifted intellect, a quick wit and legendary talent for telling stories. Many valued him as a mentor and teacher. He inspired and supported my journey in the law and community service. His legacy will live on.

Ron Klein, former member, U.S. House of Representatives

On 10⁄20/18, Judge Edward Rodgers passed away at 91. He was truly a great leader, a voice for those in need, a great friend of the Urban League of Palm Beach County (ULPBC) and a role model for many. Judge Rodgers began in the early 70’s advocating and establishing the need for an Urban League affiliate in Palm Beach County. He was honored with the ULPBC Lifetime Achievement Award in 2002. He was a trailblazer on many fronts but will be remembered as the first black prosecutor and Judge in Palm Beach County. A true servant leader, Rest in Peace, job well done!

Chip LaMarca, member, Broward County Commission

This week I participated in my last commission meeting as a Broward County Commissioner. It has been my privilege and the honor of my lifetime to be the voice for the residents of District 4 and Broward County. Over the past eight years as a member of the County Commission we achieved several great victories for Broward County families, businesses and visitors. By working together these victories have shaped our community and have assisted in making Broward County the best place to live, work, play, visit and raise a family. Thank you for the privilege of serving you.

Ina Lee, owner, Travelhost Elite of Greater Fort Lauderdale

It is unconscionable that President Trump blamed the media for the anger in our country that resulted in explosive devices being mailed to political leaders and other people who have been critical of him. This same week, a man groped a woman on a plane, excusing his behavior by the example of Trump. Ugly rhetoric and downright lies from our president are stoking the flames of hatred and discord. Why will those closest to him and the majority of Republican elected officials not take action?

Michael A. Barnett, chairman, Republican Party of Palm Beach County

Republicans should be encouraged by the vote tallies reported from the Florida Division of Elections. GOP enthusiasm is high; 41,000 more Republican vote-by-mail ballots have been cast compared to Democrat ballots. In past midterm elections, we Republicans defeated ourselves by staying home. But now Republicans are turning out the vote because we now have leaders in Congress, emboldened by the President’s courage, challenging left-wing extremism, defending the President’s agenda, confirming Kavanaugh, and championing conservative principles. This high GOP energy we’re seeing bodes well for Ron DeSantis and Rick Scott. Blue wave, meet the Red Tsunami.