Monday, November 15, 2021- The Recap/On Tap

President Joe Biden Signs Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act into Law – National, Washington, D.C. 

After months of haggling on Capitol Hill, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act headed to the president’s desk after a late night vote on Friday, November 5, and on Monday, November 15, he sealed the deal with his signature and remarks on the South Lawn of The White House.

In a media release, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chair Peter DeFazio (D-OR) issued the following statement:

“Today, President Biden is making history by signing into law the largest investment in America’s infrastructure in a generation. This historic law will help address the climate crisis, create good-paying jobs, and boost American competitiveness by upgrading our roads, bridges, rail, transit, drinking water, and wastewater infrastructure. I’m proud of the role the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee played in setting a high bar for this legislation. I look forward to working with the Biden administration as we began to implement this law and get these much-needed funds out the door as quickly as possible because communities can’t afford to wait.”

Florida Legislature Kicks Off Special Session to Tackle Issues – State, Tallahassee

On November 8, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by legislative leadership to announce the “Keep Florida Free” and “Protect Florida Jobs” agenda for a special session addressing vaccine mandates, jobs, and parental rights.

On Monday, November 15 legislators showed up for work in Tallahassee ready to roll up their sleeves ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

President Simpson, Speaker Sprowls Announce Legislative Agenda in
Partnership with Gov. Ron DeSantis to Keep Florida Free

Bunnell Police Officer Laid To Rest – Local, Flagler 

In a poignant service on Monday, November 15, members of law enforcement from across Flagler County laid to rest one of their own with the passing of Sergeant Dominic Guida. Having served with both the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and the Bunnell Police Department, the impact of his loss has been heavily felt after nearly two decades of dedication and service to the community.

Long Time Coming: Broadband to Western Flagler – Local, Flagler

Katherine Biancaniello has been leading the charge to bring broadband to portions of Flagler County since mid-2020 and on Monday, November 15 the Flagler County Commission brought the county one step closer to making it a reality.

Set to be implemented in three phases, a combination of funding sources will be used to cover the cost of the multi-million dollar infrastructure project.

Flagler County Commission Elects Chair, Vice Chair – Local, Flagler 

Flagler County Commissioner Joe Mullins was elected to serve as the Board of County Commissioners chair by a 3-2 vote, while Flagler County Commissioner Greg Hansen was elected to serve as the board’s vice chair on November 15 during the commission’s business meeting.

 

On Tap This Week: 

Flagler County School Board Set For Contentious Meeting – Local, Flagler

Flagler County is bracing for another contentious school board meeting this week on Tuesday, November 16 as the conversation takes a turn toward censorship, adult content and protocol. The school board meeting is set for 6 p.m. in the Flagler County Government Services Building. View the agenda.

Flagler Tiger Bay Club Set to Host Former Under Secretary of DHS – Local, Flagler

The Flagler Tiger Bay Club will host Hon. Rafael Borras, former under secretary of the U.S. Department of Defense on Wednesday, November 17 at Channel Side, in Palm Coast. Borras currently serves as the CEO of the Homeland Security and Defense Business Council.  Read more here.

Tobacco Free Florida Encourages Quitting During Great American Smokeout – Local, Flagler

With the annual Great American Smokeout taking place November 18, Tobacco Free Florida in Flagler County is using this observance to encourage people to make a plan to quit smoking using the free tools and services available to Floridians.

Tracing its history back more than 40 years, the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout marks a date when smokers are encouraged to use the date to either make a plan or to begin their quit journey. This year, the American Cancer society is highlighting tobacco-related disparities during the Great American Smokeout.

Flagler OARS Lunch & Learn Focuses On Harm Reduction – Local, Flagler 

The November 18 presentation will outline how Law Enforcement, Behavioral Health, and Community Organizations can collaborate to improve services to people who use drugs and bring an end to the Opioid Crisis, infectious disease, and other harm associated with substance use. Noon – 1 p.m. Log into Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4638768638
or view via Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/FlaglerOpenArmsRecoveryServices

Flagler Auditorium Opens 28th Season with Let’s Hang On! – Local, Flagler

Set to open a full season of entertainment the Flagler Auditorium welcomes the Frankie Valli Tribute Show “Let’s Hang On!” Friday, November 19 at 7 p.m. Tickets at www.flaglerauditorium.org.

Flagler County Public Library Celebrates with Festival of Trees – Local, Flagler 

This year’s “Festival of Trees” at the Flagler County Public Library main Palm Coast branch is early this year, because Thanksgiving falls on the last Thursday of the month. The festival begins at 6 p.m. Friday, November 19.

“We feature many trees that are decorated by local non-profit organizations, and we wanted to make sure everyone has ample time to come in and see them,” said Library Director Holly Albanese. “This annual tradition – sponsored by both the Library and the Friends of the Library – is a favorite.”

The overhead lights are dimmed, and the trees lit bright to create a winter wonderland. Jazz singer Linda Cole, who is the niece of legendary Nat King Cole, will provide musical entertainment that promises to be second to none.

Flagler Schools To Host Job Fair This Saturday – Local, Flagler

Job seekers are encouraged to connect with department directors and principals, and learn more about careers at Flagler Schools on Saturday, November 20 from 9 am to noon at the Flagler County Government Services Building.

Applicants will have the opportunity to interview for current openings, and job offers will be made at the event. The Flagler school district currently hiring teachers, paraprofessionals, bus drivers, and support staff.

150 Mile Super Scenic Garage Sale This Saturday – Northeast/Central Florida

The Friends of A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway are set to host the 13th Annual Super Scenic Garage Sale on Saturday, November 20 from 8 am to 2 pm. The event spans four counties, starting in Jacksonville and ending in Ponce Inlet, along SR A1A. Details are available at www.scenica1a.org.