Under the Boardwalk, Down by the Sea…
Angels & Assholes for May 12, 2017
Hey kids!
Wow! It’s been quite a week!
It’s not often that Daytona Beach makes international news, but the tempest surrounding U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos’ commencement address at Bethune-Cookman University brought 15-minutes of fame to the Fun Coast.
I watched the speech live online.
It wasn’t the best graduation speech I’ve ever heard – but it certainly wasn’t the worst – and it hit all the proper notes.
And, in my view, her delivery was entirely sincere.
During her remarks, Mrs. DeVos challenged the students to a life of service, courage and grace, congratulated their significant accomplishments, and even touched on the controversy surrounding her appearance by discussing the importance of listening to diverse points of view.
Her address was marked with angry shouts and taunts – and most of the graduating class appeared to turn their backs in protest – something I found disappointing, especially given the fact her remarks were so unaffectedly laudatory of both the university and the students themselves, despite the chaos and disruption.
Regardless of your opinion on the issue – perhaps you will agree that Dr. Jackson’s invitation, Mrs. DeVos’ genuine effort, and the dissentious reaction of the students – demonstrated extraordinary courage all around, and – I hope – advanced the cause of free speech and the importance of civil protest.
If that sounds like I’m straddling the fence, you’re right. Perhaps it speaks to the fact that First Amendment protections extend to all of us – equally – regardless of your point-of-view on this and other important issues.
That’s the very foundation of a free and open society.
However, in the aftermath, I agree with the assessment of the Daytona Beach News-Journal – the Jackson/Petrock response to the controversy was ham-handed (at best) and didn’t do themselves, the administration, or the students of B-CU any favors.
While the demonstration against Mrs. DeVos was not unanimous among the Class of 2017, it was significant, and to suggest the protest was limited to 20 students is ludicrous.
I hope Mrs. DeVos’ exposure to the heritage and important role of Bethune-Cookman University will inspire her, and serve as the impetus for increased federal funding and other opportunities for this venerable institution that has changed the lives of so many.
At the end of the day, it was a wonderful commencement exercise and a beautiful program – the B-CU Concert Chorale and accompanying soloist, the incomparable Alysha Hinton, were simply angelic.
And that’s a fact we can all agree on.
Now, I hope we can all move forward, secure in the knowledge that – regardless of our political perspective – there really is more that unites us than divides us. (I hope. That old adage appears to be getting more threadbare and tenuous everyday.)
Now, it’s time once again for Uncle Marky to turn a jaundiced eye toward the newsmakers of the day – the winners and losers – who, in my opinion, either contributed to our quality of life or detracted from it in some significant way.
Let’s see who tried to do something for us – or simply tried to “do” us – this week:
Angel South Atlantic Neighborhood Association
Kudos to those intrepid members of the South Atlantic Neighborhood Association who took the message to the masses last weekend to protest the cycle of blight in Daytona’s core beachside.
It is truly heartening to see grassroots organizations like SANA take such a public stand against dilapidation, squatters, slum lords, trash, debris and years of government neglect.
Residents have had enough.
Informational demonstrations and old fashioned curbside protests help bring attention to perhaps the most bewildering issue on the Fun Coast.
Fortunately, the Daytona Beach City Commission has begun the process of strengthening code enforcement efforts – including revisiting stale ordinances and processes that have allowed “zombie” properties to proliferate in neighborhoods throughout the area.
And some notorious offenders are finally being brought to the bar of justice.
On June 12th at 4:00pm, Daytona Beach City Commissioner Aaron Delgado will join Barker’s View on GovStuff Live with Big John on WELE-1380am to discuss on-going efforts to improve code enforcement and address other issues facing the Halifax area.
In my view, the best way to cure stagnation is to agitate and stir things up, and it appears groups like SANA are, “Mad as hell, and they’re not going to take it anymore.”
It’s high time our red-faced elected and appointed officials partner with their constituents to find effective solutions to these difficult problems.
Inaction is no longer the accepted response.
It is time to begin the important process of changing the foul image of Daytona Beach and improve the quality of life for everyone – even if it takes publicly humiliating every elected official in town.
Asshole Volusia County School Board
Once again, district officials have announced the annual shuffle of school principals – across town and across the county.
For reasons I don’t completely understand, (although I assume it is viewed as a means of improving poorly performing schools) the district engages in this perpetual leadership churn every year.
As a result, students and faculty are left feeling unsettled with no sense of continuity or stability.
Why would one build strong connections with school leadership knowing that he or she won’t be around next year?
A principal’s role in modern education is extremely diverse, and it requires passion, creativity and loyalty – and the ability to build quality partnerships. For instance, there are numerous advisory committees, volunteer programs, and other external support functions that require strong relationships with members of the community.
I attended a private parochial school where I had the same headmaster throughout my primary education. As a result, he knew me and my family, and we knew him.
And, we knew his standards and expectations for conduct and success. These benchmarks were unwavering – and strictly enforced.
It wasn’t one way this year, that way the next.
A 2015 study by the School Leaders Network found that, nationally, one quarter of new principals leave their school each year. That number climbs to fifty percent by year three – and retention rates are even worse in difficult-to-lead schools and high poverty areas.
Adding to the local roil is a decision by the district to change its “staffing formula” and eliminate 134 “teaching units” to meet anticipated revenue shortfalls. In my view, this is a time for Volusia County schools to demonstrate stability – not the upheaval that invariably follows a shift in top leadership.
Maybe I’m the asshole. (Hey, now. You don’t have to be so quick to agree. . .)
Perhaps local principals enjoy the constant turnover and lack of institutional roots inherent to these annual hopscotch transfers – but I doubt it.
Angel Volusia Rape Crisis Center
The history of services for victims of sexual violence in Volusia County is abysmal.
In 2014, our Rape Crisis Center – then operated by the Children’s Advocacy Center of Volusia and Flagler – lost its certification amid claims of a “hostile community environment” and staffing shortages.
As usual, the underlying cause was money and gross mismanagement.
The Children’s Advocacy Center was an unadulterated mess. Unfortunately, it was the victims who suffered.
According to the Daytona Beach News-Journal, nurses specially trained in collecting evidence and providing treatment to rape victims responded to 133 incidents in 2016 – that’s 11 per month.
So far, crisis center nurses have handled 54 reports since the beginning of this year.
That’s a problem, folks.
But things are turning around. Under the direction of Stewart-Marchman-Act, with an energetic executive director and improved focus on service delivery, the Rape Crisis Center is actively providing an invaluable service to Volusia County.
I hope you will join me in supporting the efforts of Volusia’s Rape Crisis Center, and their community partners, who are working hard to bring compassionate care to victim’s during a very stressful and vulnerable time.
According to reports, the center has a current need for sports bras and sweatpants for victims. To provide clothing donations or gift cards to stores like Target or Wal-Mart for specific needs, items can be sent or dropped off at the center located at 311 N. Orange St., New Smyrna Beach.
Please help if you can.
Asshole Former Congresswoman/Convicted Felon Corrine Brown
After a tumultuous 25-year career in Congress, former Volusia/Flagler Representative Corrine Brown has been found guilty on multiple charges, to include tax evasion, fraud, and lying on congressional financial disclosure forms related to a bogus charity that served as Ms. Brown’s personal slush fund.
According to evidence presented at her federal trial in Jacksonville, Ms. Brown’s Virginia-based education foundation One Door brought in some $800,000 between 2012 and 2016 – yet paid out just one scholarship for $1,200 to an individual in Florida.
Following the verdict, Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco said in a statement, “Former Congresswoman Corrine Brown violated the public trust, the honor of her position, and the integrity of the American system of government when she abused one of the most powerful positions in the nation for her own personal gain.”
Wow. Sounds eerily familiar to some other Florida politicians I know. . .
Asshole Visit Florida & Governor Rick Scott
In response to a recent exposé in the Naples Daily News outing the expenditure of $2.8 million in taxpayer money for a goofy fishing show, House Speaker Richard Corcoran said, “Every time we look deeper into the spending at VISIT FLORIDA, new waste and abuse is uncovered.”
The 2012 deal also allowed the producer of the show to pocket all of the advertising and sponsorship revenue – to include a $175,000 boat from a sponsor of the show.
That’s a level playing field?
When the State of Florida uses public funds to cover the overhead of producing a television show – it puts the producers of non-subsidized content at a distinct disadvantage in the marketplace.
And, in my view, that is the problem with “public/private partnerships” like Visit Florida and Governor Rick Scott’s other corporate welfare conduit, Enterprise Florida.
We need transparency. We need accountability. We need to get government out of the marketplace.
Not more boondoggles.
It’s time Governor Scott and the leadership of Visit Florida stop the faux-panic and hand-wringing and come to the realization that Floridian’s are sick and tired of funneling their hard-earned tax dollars to private interests.
As the Orlando Sentinel’s Scott Maxwell so aptly put it, “Tourism enterprises are still free to advertise as much as they want. They just have to use their own money … the way virtually every other business in the world already does.”
Hear, hear.
Quote of the Week
“One of the hallmarks of higher education, and of democracy, is the ability to converse with and learn from those with whom we disagree. And while we will undoubtedly disagree at times, I hope we can do so respectfully. Let’s choose to hear each other out.”
–United States Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, speaking at the commencement exercise of Bethune-Cookman University’s Class of 2017
B-CU Controversy: Legacy & Courage
Look, I have a sound 10th grade education – my final two-years of high school are a blur of beer and bad decisions. But I feel like I have a pretty good grasp of the Volusia County School District’s sophomore curriculum circa 1975.
I don’t presume to have the intelligence, insight or intellectual creativity that comes with a college education – and I never enjoyed the stamp of professional competence that a degree naturally, and universally, implies.
During my law enforcement service, I was a Mustang. I came up through the ranks, basically riding on a smile and a shoeshine, and ultimately took command of the agency that hired me as a 22-year old uneducated nitwit.
Truth be told, I often felt inferior to my peers who earned the requisite academic title prior to promotion.
Although I had amassed an impressive portfolio of in-service training and practical experience, because I never felt equal, I often kept my suggestions to myself and rarely engaged in policy matters or other discussions I felt were “above my pay-grade.”
Then, in 1990, I applied for acceptance to the prestigious FBI National Academy at Quantico, Virginia.
At that time, I was a patrol sergeant in a small department – and no one in the history of the agency before me had ever applied. Everyone thought that a small agency like ours could never compete for a spot with “major city” departments.
After all, less than one-half of one-percent of officers around the globe are invited to participate in the world’s premiere law enforcement leadership training program.
Six years later, while serving as a supervisor in the detective division, I received a letter from the FBI’s Jacksonville Field Office requesting a meeting to discuss my potential acceptance to the 187th Session.
I was overjoyed – so full of pride and gratitude! And I think my chief and co-workers were as elated as I was.
It proved, in some small way, that we measured up. All of us.
After an extensive federal background clearance, physical examinations, interviews, and the difficult loss of the 40-pounds required to meet the stringent height/weight standards – on September 29, 1996, I joined the best-of-the-best in Quantico.
During the next three-months, I lived in a cramped dormitory room with a Sheriff’s Captain from Rutherford County, Tennessee. We shared a common bathroom with an agent from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and a police lieutenant from Texas.
Across the hallway was a police chief from a suburb of Chicago, and his roommate, the head of the federal kidnapping task force for the Philippine National Police.
The first friends I made were a weapons trafficking expert from the Republic of Macedonia and an elected sheriff from Minnesota.
During this wonderful experience, I had the opportunity to discuss modern policing issues in an environment that encouraged open and honest discussion.
We studied controversial legal decisions, discussed civil rights legislation and consent decrees, and learned from international students how the rule of law and investigative techniques differ in other cultures and countries.
To avoid the subliminal intimidation that can come with the use of rank and titles in quasi-military organizations, everyone was addressed by their first name – and over beers in the evening a sergeant from a 30-person department in the deep south might learn that his new friend is the head of a major international police counterintelligence agency – or the chief of a department with over 7,000 employees and a $1.5 billion-dollar budget.
We were friends, equals and colleagues – and while we didn’t always agree – we learned from each other – and about each other – and our unique life experiences.
The FBI National Academy was the closest thing to “higher education” I will ever experience. And it gave me confidence, proved my contribution potential, and taught the importance of honest dialog in understanding the views, intellectual perspectives and values of dissimilar people and societies.
While I may not have an advanced degree, I do understand the importance of exposing oneself to diverse social opinions and political positions as a means of rounding out an informed point-of-view.
Perhaps this explains why I felt so disappointed by the backlash to Bethune-Cookman University President Edison Jackson’s important decision to invite U. S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos to speak at the universities spring commencement exercises.
I was under the impression that a college campus was the last bastion of free speech, a place for freedom of thought and the civil debate of competing ideas?
When did that change in this country?
Given the number of speakers who are being “disinvited” or outrighted banned from colleges and universities around the nation, it is increasingly clear that the right to free speech and open expression – and a well-rounded education – only exists for some.
Now, the Florida conference of the NAACP is calling for Dr. Jackson’s removal.
How incredibly sad. And shortsighted.
Imagine an entire generation of our nation’s future leaders who lack the basic skills to successfully resolve interpersonal and situational conflict because college administrators feared that developing those aptitudes might offend the students delicate sense of self-esteem?
I don’t believe that every speaking engagement requires a time for open rebuttal and angry refutation. Sometimes it’s merely an opportunity to simply listen, contemplate the message, then either accept the information into your knowledge base – or dismiss the views out-of-hand.
Your choice – but only if you are given the opportunity.
And sometimes a boring speech is simply something one must endure as a ceremonial formality of accepting your sheepskin.
In my view, B-CU students deserve the opportunity to hear and ponder the thoughts of influential decision-makers, academics, contrarians, politicians, activists and others with diverse views on the issues of the day – even those they don’t necessarily agree with.
Especially when the speaker holds a cabinet-level position in a new administration – and the purse strings for institutions of higher learning, including historically black colleges.
Without listening to competing ideas, how else does one learn the fine art of discussing and settling political and social differences in a civil and constructive way?
How else does one learn to collaborate, research, develop solutions and work shoulder-to-shoulder with others in a diverse professional environment?
I applaud Dr. Jackson’s decision to invite U. S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos as the 2017 spring commencement speaker.
As Dr. Jackson said, “Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, our venerable founder, did all that she could during the nascent stages of this institution to equip her students with the necessary skills to navigate the precarious waters of fundamental disagreement.”
In my view, Dr. Jackson has demonstrated incredible courage in remaining true to Dr. Bethune’s legacy.
On Volusia: Signs and Wonders
Throughout our history, fundamental change in public policy and the evolution of creative social solutions, germinates in grassroots advocacy and the right of citizens to petition their government for redress of grievances.
From the momentous events of the civil rights movement – to relatively insignificant local issues – positive change always begins life as a few pissed-off people joining together in someone’s living room, church social hall or a public space to discuss their collective fury over a social injustice or the town council’s inactivity and neglect of an important issue.
Hell, the very foundation of our nation was born of revolt and revolution.
In 2017, rage is still the motivating factor for significant political change.
Don’t believe me?
Attend your Congressman’s next town hall meeting – or attempt to take-in a political speech on any college campus in the nation – and I think you’ll come around. Angry shouts, provocative taunts and violent “protests” involving mask-wearing vandals are the new norm in America.
Add to that global external forces that want to annihilate us and crush our way of life, and you find we really are living in historically interesting times.
Don’t get me wrong – agitation and challenging the status quo is a good thing, especially in an environment where our elected officials, at all levels of government, are mere handmaidens of a shadowy oligarchy.
Given the current obstreperous nature of dissent in the United States, it is refreshing to see local advocates engaging in positive demonstrations and openly voicing their views on the pressing issues of the day.
For instance, in my view, Florida’s premier beach advocacy group, Sons of the Beach, has demonstrated the leadership, consistency and perseverance necessary to protect and maintain our heritage of beach driving and access for Volusia County residents.
This was never more obvious than last week’s revelation that a bill working its way through the state legislature contained language that could have been disastrous for our tourist-based economy, and our way of life, by weakening customary use doctrines resulting in the potential privatization of our beaches.
To my mind, the fact that this controversial measure passed unanimously in the House tends to expose the depth of special interest influence in Tallahassee. And the strategic silence and inaction by County Manager Jim Dinneen and the Volusia County Council perfectly telegraphs their true intentions on beach access issues.
During the initial confusion, Sons of the Beach provided a clear explanation of the potential problems with the legislation, and offered sound encouragement to stand firm and never quit trying.
In my view, that is the epitome of community advocacy and demonstrates the strength of citizen activism when the forces of power and greed are howling at the door.
In addition, Sons of the Beach have used the court system as it was intended – to provide an impartial arbiter of the facts who can apply the law to civil disagreements, to ensure citizen input in the process – and to hold our government officials accountable.
Unfortunately, over time, our elected officials have legislatively stacked the deck to the point that taxpayers – you know, the ones who pay the bills – have no standing in important issues affecting their lives and livelihoods, especially as it relates to beach policy.
I don’t know about you, but I’m sick and tired of hearing County Attorney Dan Eckert crow about the “ultimate power” of the county council over us impecunious peons in all matters beach-related.
In my view, Dan’s near-constant focus on using the courts to protect the supremacy of a self-serving “system” – over the will of the people – speaks volumes about the Dinneen administrations true loyalties.
Trust me. This vantage point on the maneuverings of county government would not be possible without the incredible efforts of Sons of the Beach.
I was also very impressed by those intrepid members of the South Atlantic Neighborhood Association who took the message to the masses last weekend to protest the cycle of blight in Daytona’s core beachside.
It is truly heartening to see grassroots organizations like SANA take such a proud public stand against dilapidation, squatters, slum lords, trash, debris and years of government neglect.
Residents have had enough. And it’s beginning to show.
These public demonstrations and curbside protests bring the frustrations of residents to the forefront – and put elected officials on notice that their constituents are “Mad as hell, and we’re not going to take it anymore.”
In my view, thoughtful public awareness campaigns like SANA’s are critical to bringing positive and lasting change. In fact, last week the Daytona Beach City Commission – in response to recent newspaper coverage and citizen outcry – began the process of reviewing and strengthening outdated ordinances and bolstering code enforcement procedures – measures that could spark the resurrection of the beachside.
Regular readers of this forum know that I have little, if any, faith in the near-constant drone of our elected and appointed officials telling us all how great we have it here on the Fun Coast. In that theme, on Friday, cheerleaders for Volusia County “economic development” agencies touted their progress during a meeting at Daytona “International” Airport.
We’re told that tourism is on the rise, unemployment is at historic lows, and area new car and truck sales rose to new heights – along with new home starts – and real estate brokers are apparently lighting cigars with hundred-dollar-bills.
We were also led to believe that a report by the Milken Institute lists the “Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach” metro area as the most improved local economy in the United States.
Interesting. (I wonder if anyone from the institute visited the Fun Coast – or just relied on the artificial injection of millions of dollars in “economic incentives” from local governments to private interests as a measurement of progress?)
You remember the Milken Institute, right?
The California-based think tank founded by Michael “The Junk Bond King” Milken – formerly of Drexel Burnham Lambert – who went to federal prison and paid hundreds-of-millions in fines and restitution for securities fraud and financial crimes against investors?
He’s a convicted racketeer whose unchecked greed set the pace for other thieves in the bad old days. Now, he’s reinvented himself – both in business and philanthropy.
Mr. Milken is the reason we still look down our noses at all bankers. Even their family members keep them at arm’s length and know the only truly safe investment is in a shoe box under the bed. . .
I also took notice of Ms. Jane Glover’s excellent Community Voices piece in Sunday’s Daytona Beach News-Journal, calling for increased county oversight and regulation of blighted rental properties in Ormond-by-the-Sea.
Perhaps we are beginning to see a renaissance here on the Fun Coast.
The signs are encouraging, anyway.
Not because those who stand to profit tell us so – but because citizens are beginning to throw off the traces of apathy and political oppression to rail and kick against the blight, dilapidation and corruption that have hampered substantive growth and real economic development for decades.
Just don’t expect government to take this challenge to the status quo quietly.
In my view, the rebirth of our community begins with grassroots organizations forcing the important process of changing the foul image of the Halifax area and improving the quality of life for everyone – even if it takes waving posters on the curb and publicly humiliating every elected official in Volusia County.
So, take a minute to drop a note of encouragement to these resolute citizens and organizations – maybe even provide some financial support to keep them in the fight, if possible – and let them know how much we appreciate their hard work on our behalf.
Thanks for reading. And have a great week, kids.
Photo Credit: The Daytona Beach News-Journal
Angels & Assholes for May 5, 2017
Hey, Kids!
It’s been an interesting week on the Fun Coast!
From the Daytona Beach City Commission having substantive talks on blight reduction and adding sharp arrows to their code enforcement quiver – to the Volusia County Council agreeing to partially fund operating costs for several homeless shelters – it looks a lot like progress.
Now, let’s turn a jaundiced eye toward the newsmakers of the day – the winners and losers – who, in my view, either contributed to our quality of life, or detracted from it, in some significant way during the week that was.
Let’s see who tried to screw us – and who tried to save us:
Angel Town of Ponce Inlet, Florida
In the aftermath of the unspeakable – the small town of Ponce Inlet has pulled together to honor the life of a 9-month old Labrador puppy who was beaten to death by the sub-human piece of excrement, Travis Archer, earlier this month.
The town is in the planning stages for a permanent memorial for “Ponce the Dog” – a bronze monument with a plaque expressing compassion for all animals subjected to abuse.
It is heartening to know that in times of outrage people can come together and constructively work through anger and grief in such a remarkably thoughtful way.
I congratulate my friend, Town Manager Jeaneen Witt, the members of the town council, the police department, and the fine citizens of Ponce Inlet for your extraordinary compassion and care in the face of such appalling cruelty.
Well done.
Angel Mr. L. Gale Lemerand & Ms. Gloria Max
Congratulations to entrepreneur and philanthropist Gale Lemerand as the 2017 recipient of the Humanitarian of the Year Award presented by the State Elks Association.
In addition, Ms. Gloria Max was similarly honored for her work as Executive Director of the Jewish Federation – which provides school supplies and backpacks to underprivileged children. Ms. Max also helps operate the Jerry Doliner Food Bank, which serves some 24,000 people in need annually.
By any measure, Mr. Lemerand is one of the “uber-wealthy” set I’m always railing about, the difference being, he has set about making the world a better place starting right here in the Halifax Area.
I happen to know of several instances where Mr. Lemerand stepped in, anonymously, to provide financial and moral support to several worthy causes – he wasn’t asked to help, he simply saw a need and did what he could.
In my view, our area needs more like Gale Lemerand – successful people with hearts as big as their bank accounts who use their substantial resources and talents for the betterment of our community, and our lives.
Angel Jeep Beach 2017
With little fanfare and, to my knowledge, absolutely zero expenditure of public funds, last weekend the Mid-Florida Jeep Club once again produced one of the largest public events for Jeep enthusiasts in the United States, right here in Volusia County.
In addition to all-things-Jeep, the event provides support for area charities, to include WORC, Volusia/Flagler Boys and Girls Club, Hope Reins, Childhood Cancer Foundation, Second Harvest Food Bank, Halifax Urban Ministries, Project Linus, Pawsabilities – and many more.
A tip of the hat to all the Jeepers and industry vendors who visited the Halifax area to enjoy and promote our heritage of beach driving. Rarely does Volusia County enjoy a special event that stimulates the local economy without a corresponding drain on government services.
I appreciate Mid-Florida Jeep Club’s outstanding support of area charities – and the economic boost their presence provides.
Asshole Ken Lawson, President and CEO – Visit Florida
Last week, the head of Visit Florida – the rightfully doomed money pit which ostensibly exists to promote Florida tourism – cranked up the scary stories, telling anyone and everyone who would listen of the horrors that will befall the state if the legislature fails to throw good money after bad.
Our reptilian Governor, Rick Scott, has made funding this farce – to the tune of $85-million-dollars – a top priority of his administration. So far, sanity has prevailed and the legislature has pared that exorbitant number to a more acceptable – but still over-the-top – $25-million.
Now, Slick Rick is on a whirlwind “Fighting to Squander Florida’s Future” tour of the state to drum up support for Visit Florida, and his premiere corporate welfare project, Enterprise Florida.
Lawson, who claims he is “fighting for his organization” (and his lucrative six-figure salary) claims that merely questioning funding for Visit Florida puts us at a disadvantage to other destinations.
Trust me. As long as we enjoy temperatures in the 90’s in early spring – with hundreds of miles of white sand and internationally famous theme parks to entertain the kids – they will come.
In droves.
Don’t get me wrong. They won’t come here (more than once, anyway) – after all, most families don’t want to vacation in abject squalor – but I’m confident other areas of our state will continue to enjoy brisk tourism – without government assistance.
I honestly don’t think we’re in danger of losing the Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi markets to Dubai – even if they do have a Hard Rock. . .
And we damn sure don’t need another bloated bureaucracy pissing away our hard-earned tax dollars on goofy boondoggles, lame advertising campaigns and ridiculous bonuses for administrators and employees of another one of Rick Scott’s infamous “public/private partnerships.”
Does it ever end?
Asshole Rep. David Santiago (R-Deltona)
As a key member of Volusia County’s delegation to the State House of Representatives, Deltona’s David Santiago continues to disappoint. If it were just his clumsy maneuvering on behalf of his wealthy campaign contributors, that would be one thing.
This week, in addition to his strategic silence on the proposed law which may well limit direct access to areas of our beach – Mr. Santiago joined Volusia representatives Patrick Henry and Paul Renner in voting to eviscerate the long-standing provisions of Florida’s open meetings law.
Only Rep. Tom Leek stood firm in support of our right to know.
Had Santiago and his co-conspirators been successful, your city commissioners – including the ethically challenged members of the County Council – would have been permitted to meet privately in pairs to discuss potential actions, so long as no policy or voting decisions were made.
Yeah, right.
(Anyone else laugh out loud when they read that? Just me? Okay.)
In my view, David Santiago represents all that’s wrong in Tallahassee – and Volusia County.
His willingness to weaken public protections against wheeler-dealer politics fits hand-in-glove with his cowardly kowtowing to every whim and want of the Donor Class. Clearly, Mr. Santiago is skulking his way toward higher office.
I hope Volusia County voters remember who he works for at the ballot box.
Asshole County Manager Jim Dinneen & the Volusia County Council
In the waning days of Florida’s legislative session, Volusia County residents were stunned to learn of a proposed Bill which could potentially limit access to Volusia County beaches.
And, if you believe our elected and appointed officials in county government, they were caught flatfooted as well.
At least that’s what their collective silence would tend to indicate.
Just three days before the vote, County Attorney Dan Eckert finally got off his ass and sent an email to the county council describing the bill as “troubling” – and something that would “restrict county regulation” over the beach.
You remember Dan. He’s the guy who spent last summer suing us with our own money to prevent direct citizen involvement in beach driving and access issues? That guy.
Hell, even the bill’s bewildered sponsor openly questioned why – if Volusia had a problem with the potential consequences of the law – she had to hear about it from a reporter.
Not a phone call? Not an email? Not a shoulder-massage from our highly-paid lobbying firm?
Nothing.
Anyone who believes this strategic muteness and inaction is anything but a way to backdoor the death of beach driving and privatize large sections of the strand is delusional.
Late word from respected sources – such as beach advocate Paul Zimmerman – claim that lobbyists alerted Volusia County officials of the potential ramifications of the bill weeks ago.
The response was utter silence.
Ladies and gentlemen, I may well be the biggest asshole you know – but whether you agree with me or not – this is the depth to which our elected officials will go to shit on the wants and needs of their long-suffering constituents – and they could care less if you or your family ever see a public beach again.
No Trespassing.
As a wise reader pointed out this week, “They (Volusia County) had one thing going for them. The beach. And they found a way to fuck that up too.”
How tragic.
Angel Sheriff Michael Chitwood & VCSO
On Thursday, Sheriff Chitwood commissioned an agency-wide use-of-force review by the Washington D.C. based Police Executive Research Forum – a think tank he has been closely associated with.
The study is expected to cost $92,000.
When a law enforcement agency changes command, a top-to-bottom review of policies, procedures and cultures within the department is an important element of positive change and transparency. I commend the Sheriff for his efforts.
However, I have not always agreed with the suggestions of PERF, whose guidance in the wake of high-profile police shootings has been described by street cops around the nation as “ridiculous.”
I agree.
In 2016, PERF produced a “30 Guiding Principles on Use of Force” paper – which spoke of the importance of “sanctity of life” and “de-escalation” training for law enforcement officers. Both admirable goals.
Unfortunately – the same principles haven’t yet been adopted by the growing coalition of violent criminals who are murdering law enforcement officers at alarming rates.
The fact is, the clear majority of law enforcement officers practice de-escalation and tactical communications techniques every shift – especially when dealing with criminal suspects – and studies show that a very small percentage of face-to-face contacts result in the use of force.
And the sanctity of human life has always been the cornerstone of values-based policing.
To suggest differently is wrong.
In my view, many of PERF’s suggestions appear to be politically correct appeasement – and have little relevance on the mean streets of America in 2017. For instance, I found it interesting that nowhere in its “guiding principles” did PERF place emphasis on officer safety and survival.
The Volusia County Deputies Association is right to be skeptical.
I believe Sheriff Chitwood is a man of his word, and I trust when he says that this study is designed to bring forward the best policies and procedures to protect our deputies and the community.
However, given the expense and on-going criticism by law enforcement officers, I question if PERF is the right choice.
Quote of the Week
“This scares me. From what I understand, it would almost privatize areas of the beach and I’m totally against that. Any time you threaten the rights of citizens to the beach, that’s a problem.”
–County Councilwoman Billie Wheeler as quoted in the Daytona Beach News-Journal, apparently overwrought with faux-panic over proposed legislation that could remove beach driving once and for all. This on the heels of her vote to grant concessions to the languishing Desert Inn/Westin project, which all but assures a traffic-free beach behind the infamous hotel.
I don’t make this shit up, folks!
Happy Cinco de Mayo! Have a great weekend.
Daytona Beach: A Fresh Set of Eyes
The next time you’re out-and-about in the Halifax area, use your imagination.
Yesterday, I needed to run a few errands.
A lovely young couple that have been family friends for many years are tying the knot in a casual ceremony befitting the couples happy, laid-back style this Saturday, so, I thought it appropriate to up-date my tired wardrobe for the occasion with a trip to what remains of the Volusia Mall.
If you and I should ever meet on the street, chances are I’ll be clad in worn khaki cargo shorts, a weathered fishing shirt, with some run-down Sperry Top-Siders on bare feet.
After many years of wearing a uniform to work, I’m not one to give up on a “look” just because it gets monotonous.
A quick trip to “The Mall” earned me a fresh pair of Nantucket red shorts and a great linen shirt, perfect for a spring garden party. I confirmed my color-combination with the friendly 30-something clerk sporting the fashionably shaped beard and well-greased man-bun, who assured me I was on target coordination wise.
Then, I endured the crucible of check-out. . .
Anyone else notice that the simple act of paying for retail items has become akin to taking out a complex second mortgage?
After shoving your credit/debit card in the chip reader, you are forced to make at least five important decisions in quick succession – followed by the physical inputs required to confirm your choice and authorize the purchase – the next-to-last of which is whether you wish a paper or email receipt – or both.
I suspect it’s just another way for retailers to collect marketing information – but it makes the point-of-sale experience an excruciatingly dreadful chore.
And, God-forbid, you have anyone over the age of 55 in line ahead.
Like me, they always seem to approach the small electronic box like they’ve just been asked to program the reentry sequence for a Space X rocket. If you’re lucky, the clerk will show annoyed mercy and reach over the counter to press the correct buttons for you – as you stand there, slack jawed, staring at the box – arms raised in a pugilistic stance – looking for all the world like a victim of early on-set senility.
What became of those wonderfully simplistic days of swiping a debit card – or the futuristic, Epcot-style technologically driven advances we were promised, like “People Movers” – or a friggin’ toaster that doesn’t burn your G-D bagel every morning. Yeah. Like that.
Don’t get me started.
Whenever possible, I like to use the services of locally owned companies – you know, keep a dollar circulating in town – and my dry cleaner of many, many years is Acme Cleaners (conveniently located just behind Krystal at Mason Avenue and US-1) – an enterprise owned by a wonderful family who do their level-best to make sure you are completely satisfied.
As I left the mall, I decided to make my way east on Mason Avenue and drop my new purchase off at Acme on the way home.
Errands. A typical day-to-day life experience we all share.
To make things interesting, I decided to imagine myself as a first-time visitor to the Halifax area and take-in the crosstown drive with a fresh set of eyes. (I do that a lot. I’m like a demented Walter Mitty, always visualizing myself in some weird fantasy. Don’t judge.)
After all, I’m always moaning the blues about the deplorable condition of our long-neglected beachside – so I thought it time to consider aesthetics on the mainland as well.
Try it sometime.
Envision that you’ve dutifully scrimped and saved all year and your family is finally vacationing in the “Daytona Beach Resort Area” portrayed in a slick online ad by Danica Patrick.
After trying in vain to find that beautiful swimming pool Danica was luxuriating by – and having been accosted by homeless panhandlers on the Boardwalk for the umpteenth time, taken in all the attractions Main Street offers tourists, and caught the morning smell of stale urine wafting on the sea breeze near the Band Shell – you have decided to make a day-trip from your beachside hotel to Tanger Outlets or points south – Bass Pro, DIS, etc. – via Mason Avenue (or East ISB, for that matter).
Invariably, the drive will take you past the ubiquitous vacant strip centers, numerous establishments who have opted to simply spray-paint the name and service they provide on the front of the building (after all, who needs sign regulations when a rattle-can gets the point across, eh?), boarded-up chain restaurants, and overgrown lots strewn with trash and debris (for a great example, try the parcel on the southeast corner of White Street and Mason Avenue).
Last weekend, I was speaking with a young friend of mine who grew up in the Halifax area, but recently moved to Seattle to make a life – a classic example of the ‘brain drain’ of young entrepreneurs, professionals and creative-types who have fled Volusia County for better opportunities elsewhere.
She mentioned that after having been away, she took a drive to ‘downtown’ Beach Street and instinctively described the mid-afternoon scene as “closed” – a less-than-inviting feel that stood in stark contrast to the vibrant, “open-for-business” vibe she was used to in her new neighborhood in the urban Northwest.
Frankly, it was depressing.
Especially after years of hearing the near-constant promises of “more, jobs, more investment, more activity” of the CEO Business Alliance and other cheerleaders for the status quo whenever they are looking for the next “tax incentive” or cash giveaway from government.
Look, this isn’t an indictment of the City of Daytona Beach’s Code Enforcement Division.
In my view, this understaffed and under-resourced group are like the proverbial Dutch Boy holding his finger in the leaky dike, attempting to save his imperiled town by standing firm against the elements until the town elders finally take notice and make the necessary repairs.
Trust me. I’ve lived the frustration of being responsible for alleviating code violations in a ‘one-hand tied behind your back’ political environment of “complaint-driven” efforts that can allow visible violations to fester for months and years – far beyond the point where reasonable abatement measures are possible.
It allows animosity to build – on both sides of the issue – and it becomes incredibly difficult for enforcement personnel to play catch-up, because, like time and tides, blight doesn’t wait.
It’s worse when unscrupulous politicians and the upper-echelon of government attempt to use the code enforcement system to punish political foes.
Ultimately, the only ones who win are the slumlords and irresponsible property owners who squeeze maximum profit through lack of maintenance and upkeep.
In my view, the cycle of blight speaks to the importance of an elected body with the strategic vision and strength of character to create an environment favorable to attracting quality business and industry, especially in a tourist-driven economy.
So, get outside of your comfort zone – rather than just stare at the bumper in front of you – and take a careful look at our collective experience with fresh eyes the next time errands take you across town.
(And use your damn turn signal, people!)
Imagine the possibilities – despite the empty bait-and-switch assurances of the powers-that-be who constantly crow about how wonderful we all have it, and then drive home to the sanity and security of their gated communities.
After you take it all in, demand accountability from those we elect and appoint to protect our interests here on the beleaguered Fun Coast.
On Volusia: Reporting Truth – Demanding Transparency
As time passes, it is increasingly evident that my mind is less limber and the more “set in my ways” I become.
There are few wild ups-and-downs now – I’ve risen to my last occasion, responded to my last emergency – no more tense stand-offs or life-altering decisions – and, despite my best efforts, it appears the rocking chair has finally caught up to me.
Life is more predictable now.
When I speak with friends who are still out there, making it happen in business and government, I realize, on the third anniversary of my retirement, how little I have in common with them anymore.
I don’t have much to add to the conversation, beyond commiserating about the common experience of weather, taxes, and the rising cost of life – and I have no relevance in current affairs.
Look, I’m not complaining – I’m the luckiest man in the world – and I never take for granted that I was fortunate to earn a pension that most of my peers will never enjoy.
I worked in a high-stress/high-risk occupation for over three decades.
It doesn’t matter where you serve in law enforcement – big cities or rural expanses – the job remains essentially the same, and the toll it exacts on your mind and body pays difficult dividends later in life – so I don’t feel guilty in the least when my monthly check arrives.
Increasingly, many people I know labor with the thought that they may never be financially capable of full retirement – a disturbing sign of our times that I fear speaks more to the breakdown of what was once called the “American Dream” than their individual success or failure.
I try to salve over their disappointment with a joke that retirement is great – for about six-weeks.
Which is true. More or less.
Most days I read, reflect and write – often from the vantage point of my porch with the lubrication of good whiskey. You can do that when your only responsibility is your own amusement.
The result are these brooding opinions on the news of the day.
I realize my views hold no more weight that anyone else’s, and I determined a long time ago that nothing I write will fundamentally change the way “things are.”
But, as I’ve said before, Barker’s View provides a very important outlet for my delusions and frustrations – and the fact that so many of you take time out of your busy day to read my screeds, and thoughtfully consider the opinions presented, is incredibly humbling – and heartening.
I am in your debt for indulging me.
Regular readers of these essays on life and politics in the Halifax area have, most probably, come to the logical conclusion that I am likely clinically insane – and it’s clear that I long ago abandoned the vanity of caring what “Very Important People” think of me.
In short, I’m pissed. And if you’re reading this – I suspect you are too.
The fact is, those “uber-wealthy” power brokers I crow about – who manipulate Volusia County government like demented children screwing around with a Tinker Toy set – don’t pay my mortgage, they don’t cover my sizable grocery bill – and they don’t control my thoughts.
I am inspired by the number of people who reach out to me with words of encouragement – readers who don’t necessarily agree with everything I write – but who understand the importance of an alternative opinion in a political environment controlled by a few influential insiders who stand to gain from the ‘wheeler-dealer’ exploitation of the democratic process.
Obviously, I’m not a journalist – and I’m often taken to task on social media for the vulgarity of my writing, the liberal use of expletives and invectives, and my often lose grip on the “facts” (if there is such a thing in 2017 Volusia County).
This is purely an opinion blog – no more, no less – and should never be mistaken for fact-based reporting.
However, most people I know understand the significance of money – especially as it relates to their personal finances and our artificial economy – and they are thirsty for information on how their hard-earned tax dollars are spent – and why.
They need truths, and they are beginning to demand transparency.
We must rely on our local press for “hard news” – not goofy opinion bloggers like me – and we trust them to investigate the issues and speak truth to power on matters of regional importance.
Clearly, the Daytona Beach News-Journal is awakening to the fact that their readership is curious about the machinations of their government, and the influence of a small clique of “rich and powerful” string-pullers, which has resulted in the obscene waste of hundreds of millions in redevelopment dollars, giveaways, “incentives,” and the spoils of abject greed – and their relationship to the never-ending cycle of blight and dilapidation in Daytona Beach.
In my view, the News-Journal, through its recent investigative journalism, may well have found a way to remain relevant and regain its significance in our long-suffering community.
I believe the recent series exposing the challenges of our beachside, “Tarnished Jewel” – and Sunday’s very informative piece by Eileen Zaffiro-Kean, “Vacant Vision,” which superbly detailed the astonishing lack of fiscal responsibility in the City’s purchase of property with CRA funds at prices far above appraised value – are invaluable.
As one real estate professional put it, these deals have been “colossally awful,” and they deserve to be exposed for what they are.
Look, I can scream about the complete lack of strategic vision, and rage, ad nauseum, about the unequal playing field and misdirection of tax dollars that has hampered legitimate economic development in Volusia County for years.
And no one in a position to shape change gives a damn.
They just get mad at me – not the shit-storm of inefficiency, mismanagement and corruption I keep pointing out like a bad Lassie episode. Timmy has fallen in the well alright, and if somebody doesn’t do something soon – I’m afraid he, and the rest of us rubes, are doomed to life in a deep, dark hole.
However, when our newspaper of record takes these important issues to task, and reports the facts and figures to an interested circulation that have been kept in the dark, lied to, and subjugated by politicians and appointed officials who repeatedly tell them one thing – then act another way – it lends credence to their latent suspicions and generates interest in finding lasting solutions to the myriad problems here on the Fun Coast.
Like rats running from the light – sunshine truly is the best disinfectant.
In an environment where a cabal of extremely wealthy individuals control most aspects of our lives and livelihoods – the power of an independent local press – staffed by journalists who are free of the yoke of political and financial pressure, with the professional courage to fight suppression and present the unvarnished truth – can finally, and fundamentally, change this bastardized oligarchy and restore promise, confidence and hope to Volusia County.
In fact, I think it is the only thing that can.
Many thanks to Editor Pat Rice and the intrepid writers and staff of the Daytona Beach News-Journal for your recent reportage on the collective challenges we face – and for your courage to confront the status quo in the face of powerful opposition to change.
Keep up the good work.
Angels & Assholes for April 28, 2017
Hey, Kids!
It’s time once again for Uncle Mark to turn a jaundiced eye toward the newsmakers of the day – the winners and losers – who, in my view, either contributed to our quality of life, or detracted from it, in some significant way during the week that was.
Now, let’s see who tried to screw us – and who tried to save us – this week:
Asshole Volusia County School Board
Rather than hold firm to their fiduciary responsibility to the ones who elected them to high office, members of the Volusia County School Board are preparing to rubber-stamp a plan by district bureaucrats to bond some $135-million to fund a laundry list of capital needs.
Why? So they can push projects – quicker.
Somehow, the school district has allowed a backlog of 65 major facilities projects – and 400 maintenance issues – to languish.
I get it – you want to build some new schools and you’ve allowed existing ones to fall into disrepair.
But do we really need years of crippling debt to accomplish that?
In Volusia County government, the idea of fiscal responsibility is abhorred by every facet of the bloated bureaucracy. With an annual budget topping $840-million – along with some $40-million in annual sales tax revenue – you get the idea that our school district simply cannot live within its means.
The option of pay-as-you-go – you know, like you and I do – is out of the question.
Naturally, the district’s senior staff is recommending paralytic debt over common-sense solutions – and the elected body is quick to agree – a scenario which has become Volusia County’s modus operandi.
I wonder who stands to benefit. . .?
Asshole Senate President Joe Negron & the Florida Senate
When House Speaker Richard Corcoran took office, he promised to reign in the Wild West atmosphere in Tallahassee and bring far-reaching ethics reform to the state capitol.
Unfortunately, all hopes for bringing substantive change were squashed this week when the Florida Senate revealed it had “zero interest” in bolstering the states laughable ethics process.
The Florida legislature is comprised of 160 members (120 in the House and 40 in the Senate) who are worked over by a virtual army of some 2000 bloodsucking lobbyists – many of them former legislators.
Mr. Corcoran’s much needed reforms would have changed the current ban on lobbying by House members from two-years to six after they leave – along with common sense efforts, like prohibiting lobbyists from texting elected officials during committee meetings or floor sessions. (Really?)
Nope. Not in Florida. The rules are different here.
Senate President Joe Negron assured Floridian’s this week that the Senate “Is very committed to the highest ethical standards, and we believe that the ethics rules we have in place should be enforced.”
I agree.
But given our dismal history of open graft – and a current administration that will go down as perhaps the most corrupt in the history of the state (and that’s saying something) – would it hurt to reinforce efforts to preserve the integrity of state government and protect the public’s trust in our elected officials?
Again, I wonder who stands to benefit. . .?
Angel Chief Spike Capri and the Daytona Beach Police Department
Bridging the gap between the police and those they serve is a difficult task – even more so in challenged neighborhoods and diverse communities who can feel helplessly caught in the middle of street criminals and aggressive law enforcement efforts.
My hat is off to the Daytona Beach Police Department, under the excellent leadership of Chief Spike Capri, for his outstanding community outreach programs.
In my view, events such as the recent “Paint a Rock with a Cop” program – or the up-coming “Daytona 100” three-mile bicycle ride for children between the ages of 8 and 12, complete with fun festivities at Dickerson Center – demonstrate the department’s commitment to partnering with the community and making all of us part of the solution.
It seems like every week brings a new and innovative program to the table – simple solutions that don’t cost anything but an officers time, dedication and creativity.
As an old crime prevention officer – I’m also glad to see proven community relations tools like “McGruff the Crime Dog” back in the fight.
Positive interaction and communication breaks down barriers – and that pays long-term dividends for every segment of the community.
Congratulations and many thanks to Chief Capri and the officers and staff of the DBPD for their outstanding efforts.
Asshole County Manager Jim Dinneen
Look, I could equally fault the entire Volusia County Council – after all, they’re ultimately responsible – but we all know who runs the ship here on the Fun Coast, and Little Jimmy is their point man.
I recently read in the Daytona Beach News-Journal where we – you and I – paid $1.8 million for a 100-space parking lot immediately adjacent to the horribly failed Desert Inn/Westin project at 880 North Atlantic Avenue.
Way back in 2014, when this turd sandwich was being cobbled together, I specifically recall that the developer – Summit Hospitality Management Group – would be required to provide parking as a requirement and off-set for the removal of cars from the strand behind the hotel.
In a June 2014 article in the News-Journal, Jeffrey Cassady, wrote:
“Dinneen hadn’t yet received a formal proposal from Summit when he spoke to The News-Journal but said company officials had mentioned allowing public parking at lots it owns near the Desert Inn in exchange for the removal of beach parking and driving behind the hotel.”
Now, the News-Journal is reporting that a 2015 deal with the developer only required that they sell space for parking to the county.
So, in keeping with Mr. Dinneen’s horrific negotiating skills – We, The People – paid nearly $2-million dollars for the parcel, and we are led to believe that this represents a “discount” from what Summit paid to acquire it.
The original deal required that the lot provide at least 27 spaces to cover the spots lost by the removal of beach driving – but in keeping with their “bigger is always better” fiscal policy – County officials decided to build more than 100 parking spaces at an additional cost of $774,635.
They think it will be an easier sell when they ultimately reach their goal and remove beach driving everywhere.
Trust me – it won’t.
According to Summit’s Marketing Director, Jim Dinneen, “It puts them in very close proximity to where (cars) will come off the beach once the hotel is complete and open. It made more sense for us to get a larger lot. The bigger lot makes it a lot better.”
(Excuse me. Who, exactly, is responsible for formulating official communications coming from the County’s administration? My God – this is the level of yammering, incoherent public comment we get from a county manager making $340,000+ in annual salary and benefits?)
What happened to demanding concessions from speculative developers for the incredible privilege of shitting on our long heritage of beach driving and destroying the last, best draw for residents and tourists alike?
Hummmm. I wonder who stands to benefit. . .?
Fuck it. We’re just along for the ride.
Asshole “Hotelier” Abbas Abdulhussein & Summit Hospitality
Recently, Mr. Abbas Abdulhussein opined that a car-free beach behind the Desert Inn project was necessary if “we” want to, “attract the right demographic of customer for the level of investment.”
My ass.
According to Abdulhussein, “If you look around the state, other destinations, like Clearwater, all of these destinations have much higher rates than we do,” he said, not needing to point out that none of the other destinations have driving on the beach. “You have to ask yourself: What’s the reasoning for that?”
Well, let’s see. . .
How about the fact that Clearwater Beach doesn’t have the look and feel of a War Zone – with abject blight and dilapidation everywhere you look, a county government that closely resembles a Third World junta, and a population that has become numb to the Turkish Bazar political corruption that fuels the wealth of an elite few?
Look, Abbas – you got what you wanted – so, with all due respect – shut the fuck up.
Frankly, the long-suffering residents of the Halifax Area are sick and tired of being lectured by speculative developers – and billionaires with a chip in the game.
My advice is to stick to what you know best – and hope against hope that Hard Rock corporate smiles favorably on your request to transform that perverted haunted house – a property, like Volusia Avenue and 11th Street, that will be forever known to locals as the “Desert Inn” – into a goofy theme hotel.
Just don’t expect those of us who gave up so much to ensure your success to take it lying down.
Quote of the Week:
“I truly, truly hate to go into debt. But I depend on our finance department. I value their judgment, and they are the ones who will guide us in that respect. They will give us the pros and the cons. We will do what we have to do to make our district successful.”
–Volusia School Board Vice-Chairwoman Linda Cuthbert publicly insulating herself from the political fallout of bonding some $135-million dollars for district capital projects and strapping residents with crushing debt for years to come.
Have a great weekend, folks!
On Volusia: The ‘Vision Thing’
I recently read a report that concluded 1 in 5 adults “aren’t confident” that they possess the skills to boil an egg or change a light bulb.
Last year, I saw an interesting survey that claimed a segment of the population believes the moon is made of green cheese – and members of the Flat Earth Society give credence to the writings of author Samuel Rowbotham, and promote the notion that we live on a flat plane – not a spherical globe.
And, here on the Fun Coast there is a small, but influential, group who are firmly convinced – despite all empirical evidence to the contrary – that removing cars from our beach, and using our areas unique heritage as a bargaining chip with speculative developers, will result in a mythical panacea project that will stimulate our economy and cure years of neglect in our core tourist area.
Look, it’s not a lack of intelligence – I know folks with a Ph.D behind their name who lack the common sense to pour piss out of a boot – and I have seen stratospherically successful automobile dealers, home builders and billionaire insurance brokers who continue to meddle in state and local government affairs – even when the calamitous effects of their lack of strategic vision line the streets of our beachside and main entrance corridors.
In our democratic system of governance, We, The People, elect our neighbors – the butcher, the baker, and the candlestick maker – to represent our best interests, set public policy, and serve as good stewards of our communal tax dollars.
In many locations, a city or county manager is given the authority and responsibility to administrate the day-to-day operations of government – and enact the elected bodies policies and guidance.
When done properly, the council/manager form of government serves to remove political pressure from operations, and ensures a symbiotic relationship with constituents – a system where the governed have a voice in the process – and collective input into the amenities, lifestyle, look and feel of their community.
Although a largely emblematic gesture, in some areas the government’s organizational chart lists “Citizens” at the pinnacle of the hierarchy to remind those we elect to positions of great power who they work for.
Not in Volusia County. Not even symbolically.
Here, we have devolved into a weird oligarchy – a system where power resides in the hands of a small group of extremely wealthy individuals whose control spreads to every aspect of our lives and livelihoods.
Over time, a tainted scheme has emerged that puts incredible weight on the flow of public money to private interests – with a clear return on investment for those elite insiders with a chip in the game.
How did this happen?
These insiders took control of our system of governance the old-fashioned way – they bought it.
During the conversion, most of us took little notice – we stood idle while the powers-that-be infused massive campaign contributions into the election cycle, then used the small-minded politicians they purchased to grant themselves massive tax breaks, incentives, infrastructure improvements, cash infusions and basically used the public coffers as their private piggy bank.
We stayed out of it, because – for the most part – they left us and our basic public amenities alone.
They even threw us a bone occasionally.
Most of us worked the seasonal jobs and filled the occupations available to us in Volusia’s depressed, service-oriented economy – cops, firemen, nurses, hospitality support, retail, etc. – for far less than those same trades paid in South Florida and elsewhere.
And we watched while a few manipulated government to control their own environment and amassed staggering wealth in an area that was not conducive for entrepreneurial success. Hell, even nationally recognized chain restaurants have a life expectancy of about eighteen-months in the Halifax area.
The trade-off was a casual lifestyle where, even when money was tight, you could drive your family down to the sea and spend a fun and inexpensive day cruising and playing in the sand.
After neglecting and destroying the “World’s Most Famous Beach,” arguably one of the most recognizable economic engines in the world, through avaricious stupidity – the net result was some $120 million in redevelopment funds squandered over 30-years and a festering shithole to show for it.
Then they came for our beach.
With rampant blight and dilapidation everywhere you look on the beachside – it is their last bargaining chip.
As increasingly large swaths of the Halifax area crumble into a hell-broth of decrepitude – the elite members of the “Rich and Powerful” continue to gorge at the public trough while ignoring the obvious.
They know if they keep the sheeple hungry, oppressed and paying the bills – they can control us, and repeatedly implement their demonstrably failed vision.
They bank on our collective apathy.
Let’s face it – Atlantic Avenue is littered with the dry bones of developers, management companies, and “investment” consortiums who were vigorously backed by our elected officials and their wealthy overseers as the “Next big thing.”
Then, when these speculators invariably landed on the ash heap of crippling greed and mismanagement, then fled town – our power brokers simply refused to accept the fact that their grand ideas, new “friends” and “business partners” were colossal frauds and failures.
Even though our elected officials and their wealthy handlers continue to square-up and get kicked in the crotch – time, after time, after time – they never seem to grasp the universally accepted truth that insanity is doing the same thing, over-and-over, while expecting a different result.
I don’t get it. Ostensibly brilliant business people who are firmly convinced that a garish theme hotel will fundamentally alter the axis of the earth and shower us bumpkins with prosperity?
And all it costs us – you know, the folks who pay the bills – is direct access to our most precious natural resource. Schlepping our children and beach gear across four-lanes of A-1-A so a few denizens of resort hotels can enjoy the amenity of a private beach?
All so the right people can. . . Oh, fuck it. I sound like a broken record.
Folks, this is the same county government that is strapping our school system with massive debt, throwing millions of our hard-earned tax dollars at ravenous special interests, selling off our publicly owned lands for pennies on the dollar, and purchasing “parking lots” and other parcels for hundreds of thousands over their appraised value.
The same troop of finger-puppets who stay in a constant state of open combat with the very municipalities where the majority of their constituents live.
In my view, this grotesque lack of vision – a bastardized view of economic growth based upon a government perspective molded by the behind-the-scenes maneuvers of those who stand to benefit most – will perpetuate even greater stagnation, squandering of public resources, and the waste of precious time.
At the end of the day, this isn’t about a Hard Rock hotel – it’s about our future economic viability and a lifestyle that brought most of us here in the first place.
If this essay sounds redundant, it is.
But to remain silent is to acquiesce – and I refuse to do that.
I hope you won’t either.
On Volusia: Heartbreak Hotel
A good “economic development” department wears a variety of hats.
Part theater, part huckster, part sales professional – the very reason for their existence is to lure new business and industry to their state, county or municipality, increase the tax base and provide job opportunities for their constituents.
Some even take the form of weird “public/private partnerships” – which normally serve to facilitate the transmission of public funds to private interests.
Unfortunately, how government goes about stimulating it’s strange view of economic growth can be hard to watch.
For instance, Volusia County is quickly moving away from providing quality public and regulatory services to the people. Instead, they increasingly see themselves as “business partners” with speculative developers, private universities, retailers and others who stand and fall based upon their access to the public trough and sympathetic politicians.
In my view, in their quest to create an artificial economy, our ‘movers and shakers’ now wrap anything and everything – from private development, to infrastructure, to open money grabs – in the “economic development” flag.
It’s as though the very designation somehow anoints the project with oil and shields it from public criticism or questions.
Add to that the exclusive clubs – shadowy secret societies, such as the Volusia County CEO Business Alliance – which, in my opinion, provide a clubby atmosphere for the uber-wealthy to stroke each other’s sizable egos, supply cushy jobs for exposed connivers, and serve as an iron buffer between politicians and those pesky rules and regulations, like Florida’s Sunshine Law.
Tally it all up and you get the feeling that perhaps there is something far more self-serving at play.
Look, I’m not talking about the Chamber of Commerce set – they tend to be more like a big goofy puppy – just happy to be here, and they’re happy you’re here too – and most municipal “economic development” directorates are just variations on that same silly theme. They mean no harm – and just want to promote the community in the best light possible.
My focus is on the big money, the motives of the “rich and powerful” as the News-Journal recently described them, who are increasingly telegraphing their true intent and wielding incredible influence over the process.
This sinister undercurrent was never more evident than during last week’s utterly bizarre County Council meeting, wherein our elected officials voted unanimously to amend a 2015 ordinance that placed specific performance standards on Summit Hospitality Management Group – the developer of the miserably failed Desert Inn/Westin project.
Despite what we were told during the developer’s very eloquent presentation, as most of us understood it, if certain specific metrics were not met by May 7, 2017 – to include that a “4 Star” Westin be open for business on that date – then beach driving would remain on the strand behind the hotel.
We get it. Issues conspired to delay the project, you couldn’t hammer out a deal with Westin, and you have decided to launch as a Hard Rock instead. Great.
No big deal – you lost the private beach – now you can go forward with any damn flag you want, in any time frame you want – and everyone hopes you are wildly successful. Go-man-go.
Unfortunately, in Volusia County it’s never that cut-and-dried – and the power brokers aren’t ready to admit that – once again – they hitched their anti-beach driving wagon to another loser.
On April 5th, one day before county manager Jim Dinneen staged his foolish “Grand Reveal” during an off-agenda ambush before the Volusia County Council – both Dinneen and Kelley surreptitiously sat down, shoulder-to-shoulder, with the developer and his attorney to actively promote the project before the Daytona Beach News-Journal’s editorial board.
Before hearing the first shred of testimony, analyzing a statement of need, seeking public input, or confirming that Hard Rock corporate was on-board. . .
Then, the following day, Dinneen and his handmaiden Kelley, orchestrated this weird surprise party during a duly-noticed public meeting – performing their best “this just in” breaking news ruse – and allowed Summit’s Abbas Abdulhussein to unveil the magical metamorphosis from Westin to Hard Rock.
The announcement was met with the wild applause, gyrations, screams and jubilation of our elected officials.
My question is – which master is our elected and appointed representatives serving?
Who, exactly, do Kelley and Dinneen work for?
It damn sure isn’t their long-suffering constituents.
The problem is – unlike those dupes we elected to look after our interests – not all of us yokels are that easily impressed by shiny baubles or rock-n-roll themed heartbreak hotels.
No. Many of us are more interested in preserving our heritage of beach driving and maintaining access to our most precious natural resource – and all-important economic engine – for everyone, not just members of the gilded leisure class or here today, gone tomorrow speculative developers.
As if this cheap scam wasn’t a foregone conclusion – to ensure that their hired hands were crystal clear on how they should vote – several members of The Halifax Area Illuminati, those enlightened deities of the exclusive CEO Business Alliance – were conspicuously present in the gallery.
When their High Panjandrum – the illustrious J. Hyatt Brown – rose in front of his chattel on the dais and told them collectively what their opinion would be – you could almost feel our elected officials symbolically clamoring to touch the hem of his high-dollar business suit and kiss the master’s ring.
And just like that – the developer du jour received all that he demanded and more.
I could almost hear the rotting corpse of Bray & Gillespie Management, LLC enjoying a raspy chuckle from its moldy grave.
Rather than live up to their firm promise to the people that beach driving would remain if clear standards were not met, our elected officials unanimously rolled-over and voted to extend the hotel’s completion date into 2018 – and accepted that the hotel would open as a Hard Rock – even when presented with clear evidence that the developer is nowhere close to a contract with the brand.
My God. When did these people lose the common human emotion of shame?
I hope that you will join me in questioning the motives, and undue influence, of the Volusia CEO Business Alliance – in my view, a mandarinate of extremely wealthy insiders who apparently control the ebb and flow of the Atlantic tides here in the Halifax area.
A mysterious clique led by the unfortunate Dr. D. Kent Sharples.
Yeah, that Dr. D. Kent Sharples.
The same stooge who single-handedly pissed away at least $1.4 million in Daytona State College funds on the steaming turd that was the American Music Festival – then landed a curious make-work gig as “President” of the CEO Alliance – in my view, to keep his mouth shut about the other flim-flam artists and rubes with recognizable names who were just as complicit in the fleecing.
That guy.
Call me old fashioned, but when the people we elect on the promise that they will serve and protect our civic interests transmogrify into cheap lobbyists and sycophantic bootlickers – I get nervous.
And you should to.
I could be wrong, but I thought the only person who works directly for the CEO Business Alliance is Little Jimmy Dinneen? Now, Chairman Ed Kelley, has proven that he is an active pawn in a much bigger game – and he is playing his role as the doddering fool with a slack-jawed expression extremely well.
In my view, Ed Kelley and Jim Dinneen should not have been within a country mile of the meeting with Summit Hospitality and the News-Journal (or anyone else) before hearing the input of their constituents.
I believe it smacks of collusion – and the open corruption of the public hearing process – and best telegraphs that the self-serving whims of the well-connected will trump the actual needs and wants of the people of Volusia County every time.
Photo Credit: Daytona Beach News-Journal
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