Looking ahead to this week

Katy Sorenson, president, Good Government Initiative, University of Miami

Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez was wrong to so quickly capitulate to Trump’s executive order to honor immigration detentions from federal authorities or lose federal funding. Not so fast. San Francisco is taking the lead to sue to challenge Trump, and more will certainly follow. The mayor needs to explain to his former golfing buddy — now our president — that selling out our immigrants, who provide much of our community’s labor and taxes, is unacceptable. And if he doesn’t get that, join San Francisco in its lawsuit.

Barbara M. Sharief, mayor, Broward County

It’s been one month since five people lost their lives and six others were shot by a gunman who had murder on his mind when he arrived in Fort Lauderdale. We must remember the victims, their families, friends and loved ones. We join them in the struggle of moving forward as we return to the new “normal.” I would like to see gun transport and carrying laws changed, a review of security options, enhanced communication technology and a laser focus on identifying people who pose a threat to our communities. We must return to solid ground.

Marlon A. Hill, partner, Hamilton, Miller & Birthisel

With all the noise in our current media environment from recent presidential executive actions, it is critical that we verify messages received online, in social media or via text messages to separate fact vs. fiction. These viral messages at times cause tremendous stress and anxiety within our communities. We are each responsible as citizens to ensure that we are not only following the development of the law, but also making the extra effort to inform ourselves. You should not rely solely on the voices of spokespersons or pundits in cable news for your only source of informa- tion. Whether it is a fact or an alternative version of a fact, take some time to research before forwarding into the universe.

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

So we know that Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on Feb 2. — that means six more weeks of winter. For us that is extra great news. Wonderful weather in the best place in the United States.

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

There has been a chill in the South Florida air, and it has little to do with the weather. In fact, there is a chill, and perhaps even a deep freeze, in cities and states throughout our country. When the press is told to shut up and listen; when an entire people who are residents of an entire country are declared persona non grata; when International Holocaust Day is observed and the Jewish people, against whom the Holocaust was primarily directed, aren’t even mentioned; when friends and family members are hesitant to discuss with each other matters of national concern; then indeed there is a chill in the air. As the Tweeter-In-General might say: “How sad!” Yes, indeed, how very sad.

Linda B. Carter, president, Community Foundation of Broward

It’s that time of year and they seem to be everywhere — Girl Scouts selling cookies. Don’t deny yourself those tasty treats. Girl Scouting develops leadership and life skills in young girls that will last a lifetime. The Girl Scout law includes concepts we all hold dear such as being courageous, caring, and responsible to make the world a better place. Having been a Brownie and Girl Scout for many years, it made an impact on me. It’s worth the extra calories to help create our future leadership. There is a box of Thin Mints with your name on it somewhere.

Ted Deutch, member, U.S. House of Representatives

I will return to Washington with a renewed focus on the pervasive hunger problem in America, an issue that over 43 million Americans struggle with every day. Here in Florida, over three million residents have limited or unreliable access to quality, nutritious food and over 3.2 million rely on SNAP benefits to put food on the table. South Florida recently hosted a traveling exhibit hosted by MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger that shows the scope of hunger in our country and what we can all do to take action to end hunger.

Mary Riedel, president, Women in Distress of Broward County

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Dating abuse is pervasive yet preventable. It is estimated that 1.5 million high school students nationwide will suffer physical abuse at hands of a a partner. Our teens here in South Florida are among those affected, putting them at higher risk for more violence, substance abuse and other health issues. There are ways to learn and help. Go to womenindistress.org.

Frank Ortis, mayor, Pembroke Pines

More than 16 million people reportedly will call in sick tomorrow, the day after Super Bowl Sunday, costing our country approximately $1 billion in lost productivity. So, there are now petitions going around asking for the day to be a national holiday called “Smunday.” A large food company has even launched a campaign to push the idea. I’m all for Super Bowl parties and love watching the game, the half time show and commercials, but I’m not for creating another holiday. City hall will be open and I will be at work on Monday. Pull yourselves together, people.