Letters to the Editor

There’s a bully on the playground

The American Heart Association is supporting House Bill 525 and Senate Bill 392, which limit liability for schools that open their playgrounds and facilities on a voluntarily basis to community groups and individuals during non-school hours. HB 525 passed the Florida House of Representatives, however the Florida Senate has failed to take any action.

The plaintiffs’ attorneys who are protecting their own interests, not those of Florida’s children or schools, are presently blocking action on this bill in the Senate.

The decreasing physical health of Americans is costing more than $147 billion dollars annually in additional health care costs, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Our politicians talk about maximizing taxpayer dollars – expanding playground use does just that!

The principals responsible for educating our children are also capable of ensuring the school grounds are well maintained. Under the new bill, the school districts’ interests will be protected, and so will our children.

We urge the Senate to act quickly. Consider the health and wellness of our children and the taxpaying parents. Support the kids and the schools, and stand up to the bullies and tell them to get off our playgrounds.

David Markiewicz and Crystal Collins Spencer, The American Heart Association

Kudos to Winter Park

We would like to thank the city of Winter Park for [its] hospitality during our recent visit on May 2 and 3 to judge the city as part of the America in Bloom National Awards Program. America in Bloom focuses on the areas of beautification, heritage preservation, environmental efforts, and community involvement. Winter Park is competing against communities from around the country for awards in these areas. It was apparent the city excelled in all the areas we reviewed. The municipality has excellent planning and execution of its many projects and initiatives. The cultural offerings and community participation result in a high quality of life and places Winter Park in the top-tier of communities in the country. We enjoyed meeting so many enthusiastic and committed individuals during our two-day visit. Special thanks to our tour guides Tim Maslow and Stephen Pategas.

Jack Clasen

Contest Committee Chair

Judge Coordinator

Board of Directors

America in Bloom