The political story of the week was Gov. Charlie Crist naming Broward homeboy George LeMieux to the open seat in the U.S. Senate. After some initial shock, we recovered our wits. Lisa Rab got this report from Fort Lauderdale City Hall, where Broward big shots lined up to congratulate the county's first U.S. senator, George LeMieux.
For a peek at what goodies LeMieux can give his hometown folks, check out the North Broward Hospital District, where on Crist's behalf LeMieux had a hand in trying to rescue it from scandal. Judging by the state of the district's general counsel department (also see here), he's done a rotten job of it.
As Florida's economy continued to churn, Lisa Rab found an apt metaphor: a sailboat abandoned and ravaged by the Delray Beach surf. That scene may not have conjured much melancholy from Pembroke Pines City Manager Charles Dodge, however. He's making a killing in this economy: nearly $800,000 per year, a sweet health-care package, plus an office and staff, all on the city dime -- and all while the city cuts staff and services to make budget.
Gail Shepherd noticed a pattern among Palm Beach County thieves: green clothing. An indication they're driven by envy? Solidarity with reformers in Iran? Eco-consciousness? Nah, probably just leprechauns. Juice also noted another law enforcement pattern: a disparaging description of a suspect as a prelude to his capture.