John “Jack” P. Seiler, former mayor, Fort Lauderdale
Last week: With the protests in Cuba, there is a growing sense of optimism that Cuba may finally be on a course to democracy after 60 years of communist dictatorship. Generations of Cubans, both at home and abroad, have suffered at the hands of the Castro family and their insiders for too long, but now there is a national awakening and an understanding that the Castro brothers’ firm grip may be slipping. With support from the U.S. government, the Catholic Church, Cuban-Americans and all Americans who believe in freedom, liberty, justice and prosperity, there is momentum for real change in Cuba.
Looking ahead: With the college football season right around the corner, the Orange Bowl Committee kicks off its media tour next week by going on the road to the ACC, SEC, Big 10, Big 12, PAC 12, Notre Dame and the Group of Five conferences. After successfully hosting the Capital One Orange Bowl and the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, we will be hosting the College Football Playoff National Semifinal at the spectacular Hard Rock Stadium on Dec. 31, 2021. As we return to the new normal in our post pandemic world, it will be wonderful to see full stadiums across the country this fall!