WASHINGTON – The Republican National Committee announced a new web video today on President Obama’s, Harry Reid’s, and Nancy Pelosi’s liberal government-run agenda, which has caused major Democrat leaders to decide not to seek reelection in 2010. The web video, entitled “Running Scared,” can be viewed here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvzcxy3nK-I.
“For close to a year, President Obama, Harry Reid, and Nancy Pelosi have been hatching their government-run experiments from the closed-door power monopoly of Capitol Hill with absolutely no regard for the concerns of the American public. Using the economic crisis as a means to their liberal ends, they started with their failed $787 billion stimulus package, moved on to their job killing ‘cap and trade’ scheme, and are now working hard to finish their government takeover of our health care system. But this unprecedented power grab is not only hurting President Obama’s and Congressional Democrat’s approval ratings – it’s also causing major Democrat leaders to decide not run for office in 2010. Instead of facing the very voters they have been ignoring for the last year and defending the policies they have supported from day one, they would rather tuck their tails and run. All conservative and independent minded Americans should see these announcements as a clear rallying call and that the possibility for major Republican victories across all levels of government is growing larger with every passing day.” – RNC Chairman Michael Steele
“RUNNING SCARED” SCRIPT
Time: 00:54
Voice: “Big Government.”
Chyron: BIG GOVERNMENT!
Voice: “Starring Barack Obama,”
Chyron: STARRING BARACK OBAMA!
Voice: “Nancy Pelosi,”
Chyron: STARRING NANCY PELOSI!
Voice: “and Harry Reid.”
Chyron: AND HARRY REID!
Voice: “They’re planning tax hikes,”
Chyron: TAX HIKES
Voice: “spending trillions,”
Chyron: SPENDING TRILLIONS!
Voice: “and have hatched a government takeover of healthcare.”
Chyron: GOVERNMENT TAKEOVER OF HEALTH CARE
Voice: “They’re impervious to the wishes of the public.”
Chyron: IMPERVIOUS TO THE WISHES OF THE PUBLIC!
Voice: “Their powers grow from backroom deals.”
Chyron: THEIR POWERS GROW FROM BACKROOM DEALS!
Voice: “But their policies are like kryptonite for the economy.”
Chyron: KRYPTONITE FOR THE ECONOMY!
Voice: “Constituents are running scared.”
Voice: “And now, Democrats are too”
Chyron: NOW DEMOCRATS ARE TOO!
Chris Matthews: “The Democrats are on the run, literally, not running, running away”
Chyron: GOV. RITTER RETIRED
Chyron: SEN. DODD RETIRED
Chyron: SEN. DORGAN RETIRED
Voice: “The thrill up the leg is gone,”
Chyron: THE THRILL UP THE LEG IS GONE
Voice: “But spine chilling big government”
Chyron: SPINE CHILLING BIG GOVERNMENT
Voice: “From Obama, Pelosi and Reid is taking over.”
Chyron: IS TAKING OVER!
Voice: “Take action to stop it. Go to GOP.com.”
Chyron: TAKE ACTION AT: GOP.COM
Onscreen Disclaimer: PAID FOR BY THE REPUBLICAN NATIONAL COMMITTEE. NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE’S COMMITTEE. WWW.GOP.COM
###
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Statements and Information Regarding RPOF Chairman Jim Greer
Tallahassee–Republican Party of Florida Chairman Jim Greer today announced that he will step down as Chairman effective February 20, 2010. Documents pertaining to Chairman Greer’s announcement are below. Additional information regarding an election for his replacement will be released when available. The RPOF Annual Meeting scheduled for this Saturday, January, 9, 2010 at the Rosen Plaza Hotel in Orlando will proceed as scheduled. Information on attaining press credentials for this event will be sent in a subsequent media advisory.
Statement by Governor Charlie Crist Regarding Chairman Jim Greer
“I would like to commend my friend Chairman Jim Greer for his selfless dedication to the Republican Party of Florida over the last three years. Under Chairman Greer’s leadership we maintained a strong majority in Florida’s Congressional Delegation and overwhelming majorities in the State House and Senate.
“Jim has long been a loyal servant to the Republican cause, and I appreciate the many sacrifices the Chairman, his wife Lisa, and their four children have made to ensure our Party’s continued success in the Sunshine State. Chairman Greer has and always will have my unwavering support.
“I call on Florida Republicans to unite behind our common values of less government and more personal freedom and sincerely hope that we can move forward together to ensure statewide Republican victories in 2010.”
Joint Statement by Senator Haridopolos and Representative Cannon Regarding Chairman Jim Greer
“We commend Chairman Greer for his years of service to the Republican Party of Florida and thank him for the tremendous leadership and notable contributions, particularly in the areas of minority and youth outreach, voter registration and technology.
“From day one, Chairman Greer worked diligently to ensure the Republican campaigns and candidates, counties parties, and other local and statewide Republican organizations had not only the resources, but also the skills necessary to ensure victory. The victories Republicans saw at the local and state levels in 2008 and 2009 are truly a testament to his leadership.
As Chairman, Jim understands not only the importance of this critical election this year, but also the need to adequately prepare the State Party and diverse grassroots communities for the fight ahead, and we believe his legacy will be reflected in many victories yet to come.
It has never been more important that Republicans focus on the task at hand by uniting in support of our common goals. For the first time since Reconstruction, we are facing open races in a United States Senate seat, the Governor’s Mansion, all of our Cabinet seats, half of the Florida Senate, and the entire House of Representatives.
As the 2010 Election Cycle rapidly approaches, we encourage all Florida Republicans to unite together to ensure that Republicans carry the day in 2010.”
Chairman Greer’s Letter of Resignation
January 5, 2010
The Honorable Charlie Crist
Governor of Florida
The Capitol PL-05
400 North Monroe Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399
Dear Governor Crist, Members of the RPOF State Executive Committee and Fellow Republicans,
This month marks the conclusion of my third year as Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, and less than one year since my re-election in January 2009, with over 77 percent of the vote. Since becoming Chairman, I have been honored to work with you to make our Party stronger, and I sincerely appreciate the tremendous effort you have put forth in serving the Republican Party of Florida.
During my Chairmanship, I have worked tirelessly to develop new and innovative fundraising programs, enhanced grassroots resources, increased minority voter outreach and worked to enhance the Republican Party of Florida’s status as an influential partner in state and national politics, this while sacrificing time with my family, including four young children. I made this sacrifice in my personal life because I believe in our Party, and in the principles we as Republicans hold dear.
As Chairman, I came from outside of the RPOF structure, but worked hard to hit the ground running by putting into practice some of the principles that I found successful in the private sector. We worked to make the organization more professional by putting into place a set of standards, which hold every staff member and all organizations chartered through the RPOF accountable for conduct, productivity and results.
During my Chairmanship, the RPOF worked to build a diverse party that includes Republicans from across the state without consideration of ethnic or cultural barriers. We took steps to restructure the Party and built a vast organization based on county leadership and a strong base of grassroots volunteers, and provided local leadership with needed resources. Understanding the long-time voter registration deficit facing Florida Republicans, during my Chairmanship the RPOF allocated an unprecedented number of resources and staff to voter registration and worked with county leadership to explore new avenues to successfully change the tide in voter registration. This effort included developing a comprehensive program aimed at encouraging young Floridians, African Americans and Hispanics to consider joining the Republican Party. The results have caused a growing number of young people to join our party.
Early in my Chairmanship, I advocated for a January Presidential Preference Primary election, which brought the Republican Presidential candidates to Florida for three nationally-televised, primetime debates, hosted by RPOF, and successfully lobbied for the seating of Florida’s full delegation at the Republican National Convention. We worked with Republican clubs and organizations across Florida to get out the vote in 2008, and as a result, not a single Republican member of the Florida House or Senate was defeated and Republicans maintained a majority in Florida’s Congressional Delegation. For this fact, I will always be proud of our efforts.
After the 2008 Election, I was privileged to be one of the first leaders to endorse our new Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele. I had the honor of serving as a member of the Steele Transition Team, along with recently being elected to serve as Chairman of the RNC Rules Committee, all in order to ensure Florida Republicans maintain a prominent role in the Republican National Committee.
However, despite the great progress our Party has seen over the last three years, a small but vocal group within our Party has made it a point to destroy this progress and negatively impact our opportunity for victory in 2010. There has been, as you may be aware, an effort by this group to seek my removal for reasons that hold no justification. The facts and accuracy relating to this issue have become lost and irrelevant to these disruptive efforts and despite my own efforts, in addition to the efforts of others, to correct the record with the facts and truthfulness, these divisive individuals and their efforts continue without any concern for our Party’s future.
While I am honored by your unwavering support and the support of Republican members of the Florida Legislature, many members of the State Executive Committee, and many RPOF donors, I have determined that this internal discord has many origins and political agendas, but the one common result is a detrimental effect on the Republican Party. Since 2007, I have made a point to put the best interest of the Party before my own, even when criticisms were misdirected and invalid, and I will do so again now. While some are more interested in tearing and shredding the fabric of the Republican Party to pieces, I will not be a participant in this destructive behavior. Therefore, I am putting the future of our Party first and shall step down as Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida effective February, 20, 2010.
Serving as Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida has been the privilege of a lifetime. My wife Lisa and I have had the opportunity to develop many long-lasting friendships. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Lisa and my family for their love and unwavering support, during my Chairmanship.
I would also like to thank the talented and dedicated RPOF staff for their hard work, dedication and loyalty to our Party.
As I prepare to leave this post with Republicans maintaining a United State Senate seat, the Governor’s Mansion, three of four Cabinet posts, and strong majorities in the Florida House, Senate and Congressional Delegation, I look forward to continuing to work to elect Republicans to office, and now call upon all Republicans throughout Florida to put our differences aside, end our Party’s internal conflict and disagreements, and focus on electing Republicans in 2010.
Warmest Regards,
James A. Greer
Chairman
Statement by Governor Charlie Crist Regarding Chairman Jim Greer
“I would like to commend my friend Chairman Jim Greer for his selfless dedication to the Republican Party of Florida over the last three years. Under Chairman Greer’s leadership we maintained a strong majority in Florida’s Congressional Delegation and overwhelming majorities in the State House and Senate.
“Jim has long been a loyal servant to the Republican cause, and I appreciate the many sacrifices the Chairman, his wife Lisa, and their four children have made to ensure our Party’s continued success in the Sunshine State. Chairman Greer has and always will have my unwavering support.
“I call on Florida Republicans to unite behind our common values of less government and more personal freedom and sincerely hope that we can move forward together to ensure statewide Republican victories in 2010.”
Joint Statement by Senator Haridopolos and Representative Cannon Regarding Chairman Jim Greer
“We commend Chairman Greer for his years of service to the Republican Party of Florida and thank him for the tremendous leadership and notable contributions, particularly in the areas of minority and youth outreach, voter registration and technology.
“From day one, Chairman Greer worked diligently to ensure the Republican campaigns and candidates, counties parties, and other local and statewide Republican organizations had not only the resources, but also the skills necessary to ensure victory. The victories Republicans saw at the local and state levels in 2008 and 2009 are truly a testament to his leadership.
As Chairman, Jim understands not only the importance of this critical election this year, but also the need to adequately prepare the State Party and diverse grassroots communities for the fight ahead, and we believe his legacy will be reflected in many victories yet to come.
It has never been more important that Republicans focus on the task at hand by uniting in support of our common goals. For the first time since Reconstruction, we are facing open races in a United States Senate seat, the Governor’s Mansion, all of our Cabinet seats, half of the Florida Senate, and the entire House of Representatives.
As the 2010 Election Cycle rapidly approaches, we encourage all Florida Republicans to unite together to ensure that Republicans carry the day in 2010.”
Chairman Greer’s Letter of Resignation
January 5, 2010
The Honorable Charlie Crist
Governor of Florida
The Capitol PL-05
400 North Monroe Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399
Dear Governor Crist, Members of the RPOF State Executive Committee and Fellow Republicans,
This month marks the conclusion of my third year as Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, and less than one year since my re-election in January 2009, with over 77 percent of the vote. Since becoming Chairman, I have been honored to work with you to make our Party stronger, and I sincerely appreciate the tremendous effort you have put forth in serving the Republican Party of Florida.
During my Chairmanship, I have worked tirelessly to develop new and innovative fundraising programs, enhanced grassroots resources, increased minority voter outreach and worked to enhance the Republican Party of Florida’s status as an influential partner in state and national politics, this while sacrificing time with my family, including four young children. I made this sacrifice in my personal life because I believe in our Party, and in the principles we as Republicans hold dear.
As Chairman, I came from outside of the RPOF structure, but worked hard to hit the ground running by putting into practice some of the principles that I found successful in the private sector. We worked to make the organization more professional by putting into place a set of standards, which hold every staff member and all organizations chartered through the RPOF accountable for conduct, productivity and results.
During my Chairmanship, the RPOF worked to build a diverse party that includes Republicans from across the state without consideration of ethnic or cultural barriers. We took steps to restructure the Party and built a vast organization based on county leadership and a strong base of grassroots volunteers, and provided local leadership with needed resources. Understanding the long-time voter registration deficit facing Florida Republicans, during my Chairmanship the RPOF allocated an unprecedented number of resources and staff to voter registration and worked with county leadership to explore new avenues to successfully change the tide in voter registration. This effort included developing a comprehensive program aimed at encouraging young Floridians, African Americans and Hispanics to consider joining the Republican Party. The results have caused a growing number of young people to join our party.
Early in my Chairmanship, I advocated for a January Presidential Preference Primary election, which brought the Republican Presidential candidates to Florida for three nationally-televised, primetime debates, hosted by RPOF, and successfully lobbied for the seating of Florida’s full delegation at the Republican National Convention. We worked with Republican clubs and organizations across Florida to get out the vote in 2008, and as a result, not a single Republican member of the Florida House or Senate was defeated and Republicans maintained a majority in Florida’s Congressional Delegation. For this fact, I will always be proud of our efforts.
After the 2008 Election, I was privileged to be one of the first leaders to endorse our new Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele. I had the honor of serving as a member of the Steele Transition Team, along with recently being elected to serve as Chairman of the RNC Rules Committee, all in order to ensure Florida Republicans maintain a prominent role in the Republican National Committee.
However, despite the great progress our Party has seen over the last three years, a small but vocal group within our Party has made it a point to destroy this progress and negatively impact our opportunity for victory in 2010. There has been, as you may be aware, an effort by this group to seek my removal for reasons that hold no justification. The facts and accuracy relating to this issue have become lost and irrelevant to these disruptive efforts and despite my own efforts, in addition to the efforts of others, to correct the record with the facts and truthfulness, these divisive individuals and their efforts continue without any concern for our Party’s future.
While I am honored by your unwavering support and the support of Republican members of the Florida Legislature, many members of the State Executive Committee, and many RPOF donors, I have determined that this internal discord has many origins and political agendas, but the one common result is a detrimental effect on the Republican Party. Since 2007, I have made a point to put the best interest of the Party before my own, even when criticisms were misdirected and invalid, and I will do so again now. While some are more interested in tearing and shredding the fabric of the Republican Party to pieces, I will not be a participant in this destructive behavior. Therefore, I am putting the future of our Party first and shall step down as Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida effective February, 20, 2010.
Serving as Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida has been the privilege of a lifetime. My wife Lisa and I have had the opportunity to develop many long-lasting friendships. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Lisa and my family for their love and unwavering support, during my Chairmanship.
I would also like to thank the talented and dedicated RPOF staff for their hard work, dedication and loyalty to our Party.
As I prepare to leave this post with Republicans maintaining a United State Senate seat, the Governor’s Mansion, three of four Cabinet posts, and strong majorities in the Florida House, Senate and Congressional Delegation, I look forward to continuing to work to elect Republicans to office, and now call upon all Republicans throughout Florida to put our differences aside, end our Party’s internal conflict and disagreements, and focus on electing Republicans in 2010.
Warmest Regards,
James A. Greer
Chairman
Monday, January 4, 2010
RPOF to Report Over $4.5 Million in Fourth Quarter Contributions
Tallahassee–Republican Party of Florida Chairman Jim Greer is pleased to announce that the RPOF raised more than $4.5 million in contributions during the months of October, November and December of 2009.
“Republicans across Florida should be encouraged by the tremendous generosity of our donors during the final months of 2010,” said Chairman Greer. “I am extremely grateful to donors throughout our state who have continued to support our Party in the midst of tough economic times. Their ongoing commitment to ensuring that we elect Republicans in 2010 demonstrates that Floridians are rejecting the Democrats’ tax-and-spend solutions, getting fed up with President Obama’s plan for a trillion dollar government-run health care experiment, and ready to work hard to elect Republicans as we move forward in this critical election year.”
The RPOF’s campaign finance report will be filed with the Florida Division of Elections on Monday, January 11, 2010.
“Republicans across Florida should be encouraged by the tremendous generosity of our donors during the final months of 2010,” said Chairman Greer. “I am extremely grateful to donors throughout our state who have continued to support our Party in the midst of tough economic times. Their ongoing commitment to ensuring that we elect Republicans in 2010 demonstrates that Floridians are rejecting the Democrats’ tax-and-spend solutions, getting fed up with President Obama’s plan for a trillion dollar government-run health care experiment, and ready to work hard to elect Republicans as we move forward in this critical election year.”
The RPOF’s campaign finance report will be filed with the Florida Division of Elections on Monday, January 11, 2010.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
RNC RELEASES NEW WEB VIDEO “LISTEN TO ME”
The Republican National Committee announced a new web video today on the Democrats’ failure to listen to the American public’s concerns over health care reform.
“As President Obama, Harry Reid, and their liberal allies negotiate their government-run health care experiment behind the closed doors of the Capitol building, a majority of Americans from across the country are making it known that they oppose the Democrats’ liberal plans and favor a common-sense incremental approach to health care reform. Unfortunately, it is becoming clear that the president and Harry Reid simply aren’t interested in what Americans want. I encourage President Obama and Congressional Democrats to stop working in secret, start listening, and join with Republicans on health care reform that the American people actually want and deserve.” – RNC Chairman Michael Steele
Governor Crist Signs Bill Expanding Passenger Rail, Creating Jobs
TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist today signed House Bill 1B, historic legislation passed during the recent special session. The bill establishes a comprehensive framework for Florida’s current and future passenger rail system, which today includes SunRail, Tri-Rail and plans for high speed rail. The Governor congratulated Senate President Jeff Atwater and House Speaker Larry Cretul, along with the entire Florida Legislature, for recognizing the importance of the jobs and economic development that will result from passenger rail throughout the Sunshine State.
“Future generations of Floridians will look on this day as a bold step toward modernizing how residents and visitors will travel in our state,” Governor Crist said. “Individuals and businesses from North Florida to South Florida will benefit from the economic and job opportunities that will arise along each of the rail corridors. Together, we move the Sunshine State into a new era of collaboration and innovation.”
Governor Crist signed the bill in Tallahassee alongside Mark Wilson, president and CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, and Agency for Workforce Innovation Director Cynthia R. Lorenzo. Also joining Governor Crist for the bill signing ceremony were Bobby Jernigan, executive director of the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged, and Sally Benjamin of the Florida Council of the Blind.
Later today, Governor Crist will highlight the job-creation and economic-development opportunities of the legislation during visits to Tampa, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, three communities that will directly benefit from the passenger rail projects. The Governor will congratulate Senator Mike Fasano, Representative Kevin Ambler, former Senator Daniel Webster and Senator Jeremy Ring for their work to enhance passenger rail transportation in the Sunshine State. Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp will attend the bill signing ceremonies in Tampa and Orlando.
"As elected leaders we have a responsibility to create an environment in which Florida's families, communities, and businesses can be successful," said Florida Senate President Jeff Atwater. "Today, Florida is embracing the opportunity to lead the nation in developing a comprehensive transportation system, thereby ensuring our competitive edge in the 21st Century global economy. A comprehensive transportation system, creating opportunities and avenues to connect employers and employees, is integral to building a stronger future for Florida."
The primary components of House Bill 1B include the following:
• SunRail – The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is working with the federal government and Central Florida officials to develop and operate SunRail, a commuter rail transit project that will run along a 61-mile stretch of existing rail freight tracks in Orange, Seminole, Volusia and Osceola counties. The legislation authorizes FDOT to complete the purchase of the Central Florida Rail Corridor once the Federal Transit Administration has established a full-funding grant agreement.
• Tri-Rail – The legislation also provides additional funding for Tri-Rail, which currently operates 50 trains daily from Palm Beach County to Miami-Dade County. The operator of the passenger line, South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA), announced in April 2009 that it was in danger of significant service reductions without additional resources.
• Florida Statewide Rail Commission and Florida Rail Enterprise – The legislation creates the Florida Statewide Rail Commission to advise the FDOT and the Legislature on the development and operation of Florida’s passenger rail systems. In addition, it creates the Florida Rail Enterprise within FDOT to oversee all state-owned passenger rail systems. The legislation addresses liability risks associated with state-owned passenger rail corridors and requires FDOT to work with communities affected by increased freight rail traffic resulting from routing modifications.
“I appreciate the hard work, discipline, and focus demonstrated by the House and Senate, and the Governor’s Office, in approving this important bill,” said House Speaker Larry Cretul. “We have opened the door to a new and improved transportation future in Florida, one in which citizens and visitors will find travel easier and more efficient, and we did so with no new taxes. It’s a win/win for all parties.”
Governor Crist praised legislators for solidifying Florida’s commitment to expanding passenger rail service throughout the state and laying the groundwork for the Tampa-Orlando-Miami High Speed Rail Program. Florida has applied to receive $2.6 billion in federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 funds for the Tampa-Orlando segment. Once the high speed rail segment is developed, the Tampa Bay Area Regional Transportation Authority plans to develop commuter rail connections throughout the Tampa Bay region.
Last week, Governor Crist wrote to Secretary Ray LaHood of the United States Department of Transportation, asking him to approve Florida’s application to develop high speed rail. Governor Crist reminded Secretary LaHood that approval of Florida’s application in 2009 will ensure initiation of the Tampa-Orlando segment in 2010.
For more information about Florida’s use of the federal recovery dollars made available through the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, please visit www.FlaRecovery.com.
“Future generations of Floridians will look on this day as a bold step toward modernizing how residents and visitors will travel in our state,” Governor Crist said. “Individuals and businesses from North Florida to South Florida will benefit from the economic and job opportunities that will arise along each of the rail corridors. Together, we move the Sunshine State into a new era of collaboration and innovation.”
Governor Crist signed the bill in Tallahassee alongside Mark Wilson, president and CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, and Agency for Workforce Innovation Director Cynthia R. Lorenzo. Also joining Governor Crist for the bill signing ceremony were Bobby Jernigan, executive director of the Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged, and Sally Benjamin of the Florida Council of the Blind.
Later today, Governor Crist will highlight the job-creation and economic-development opportunities of the legislation during visits to Tampa, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, three communities that will directly benefit from the passenger rail projects. The Governor will congratulate Senator Mike Fasano, Representative Kevin Ambler, former Senator Daniel Webster and Senator Jeremy Ring for their work to enhance passenger rail transportation in the Sunshine State. Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp will attend the bill signing ceremonies in Tampa and Orlando.
"As elected leaders we have a responsibility to create an environment in which Florida's families, communities, and businesses can be successful," said Florida Senate President Jeff Atwater. "Today, Florida is embracing the opportunity to lead the nation in developing a comprehensive transportation system, thereby ensuring our competitive edge in the 21st Century global economy. A comprehensive transportation system, creating opportunities and avenues to connect employers and employees, is integral to building a stronger future for Florida."
The primary components of House Bill 1B include the following:
• SunRail – The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is working with the federal government and Central Florida officials to develop and operate SunRail, a commuter rail transit project that will run along a 61-mile stretch of existing rail freight tracks in Orange, Seminole, Volusia and Osceola counties. The legislation authorizes FDOT to complete the purchase of the Central Florida Rail Corridor once the Federal Transit Administration has established a full-funding grant agreement.
• Tri-Rail – The legislation also provides additional funding for Tri-Rail, which currently operates 50 trains daily from Palm Beach County to Miami-Dade County. The operator of the passenger line, South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA), announced in April 2009 that it was in danger of significant service reductions without additional resources.
• Florida Statewide Rail Commission and Florida Rail Enterprise – The legislation creates the Florida Statewide Rail Commission to advise the FDOT and the Legislature on the development and operation of Florida’s passenger rail systems. In addition, it creates the Florida Rail Enterprise within FDOT to oversee all state-owned passenger rail systems. The legislation addresses liability risks associated with state-owned passenger rail corridors and requires FDOT to work with communities affected by increased freight rail traffic resulting from routing modifications.
“I appreciate the hard work, discipline, and focus demonstrated by the House and Senate, and the Governor’s Office, in approving this important bill,” said House Speaker Larry Cretul. “We have opened the door to a new and improved transportation future in Florida, one in which citizens and visitors will find travel easier and more efficient, and we did so with no new taxes. It’s a win/win for all parties.”
Governor Crist praised legislators for solidifying Florida’s commitment to expanding passenger rail service throughout the state and laying the groundwork for the Tampa-Orlando-Miami High Speed Rail Program. Florida has applied to receive $2.6 billion in federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 funds for the Tampa-Orlando segment. Once the high speed rail segment is developed, the Tampa Bay Area Regional Transportation Authority plans to develop commuter rail connections throughout the Tampa Bay region.
Last week, Governor Crist wrote to Secretary Ray LaHood of the United States Department of Transportation, asking him to approve Florida’s application to develop high speed rail. Governor Crist reminded Secretary LaHood that approval of Florida’s application in 2009 will ensure initiation of the Tampa-Orlando segment in 2010.
For more information about Florida’s use of the federal recovery dollars made available through the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, please visit www.FlaRecovery.com.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
RNC Releases New Web Video “Listen” On Democrats’ Health Care Reform Failures
WASHINGTON – The Republican National Committee announced a new web video today on President Obama’s and Congressional Democrats’ failure to listen to the American public’s health care reform concerns. The web video, entitled “Listen,” can be viewed here.
“For months Americans all across the country have been letting President Obama and Congressional Democrats know that their government-run health care experiment is wrong for America. The American people don’t want Washington Democrats spending another trillion dollars that we don’t have on a liberal health care bill that will raise taxes, increase premiums, cut Medicare, and drive us further into debt. But Democrats aren’t getting the message because they simply aren’t listening. We have seldom seen a political party march in lock step in opposition to the will of the American people. Democrats believe that they can do anything, say anything, and spend any amount. They believe they can trample over the system of checks and balances that have protected this country from radical extremes for over 200 years. President Obama and Congressional Democrats need to slow down and start listening to the American people and work with Republicans to find common-sense solutions for health care.” – RNC Chairman Michael Steele
“For months Americans all across the country have been letting President Obama and Congressional Democrats know that their government-run health care experiment is wrong for America. The American people don’t want Washington Democrats spending another trillion dollars that we don’t have on a liberal health care bill that will raise taxes, increase premiums, cut Medicare, and drive us further into debt. But Democrats aren’t getting the message because they simply aren’t listening. We have seldom seen a political party march in lock step in opposition to the will of the American people. Democrats believe that they can do anything, say anything, and spend any amount. They believe they can trample over the system of checks and balances that have protected this country from radical extremes for over 200 years. President Obama and Congressional Democrats need to slow down and start listening to the American people and work with Republicans to find common-sense solutions for health care.” – RNC Chairman Michael Steele
Monday, December 14, 2009
Governor Crist Celebrates New Mike Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter
HUDSON – Governor Charlie Crist today participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the opening of the new Mike Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter. The Governor joined Senator Mike Fasano, Representatives Will Weatherford and John Legg, Pasco County commissioners, and state and local emergency management officials for the ceremony.
“This new shelter facility will greatly enhance the capabilities of the county during disasters and other times of need, as well as continue to foster a culture of preparedness which is so important here in Florida,” said Governor Crist. “It is fitting that this regional shelter is named after Senator Mike Fasano, a great Floridian who exemplifies public service and has an unwavering commitment to the people of Florida.”
"I am both thrilled and honored to be a part of this state of the art facility. It gives me great peace of mind to know that in case of a hurricane, the residents of West Pasco will have a world class shelter to keep them safe throughout the storm," said Senator Mike Fasano.
The new 37,263 square foot facility is designed and constructed to meet the new International Code Council storm shelter standards. It can withstand hurricane wind gusts up to 190 miles per hour and has the capacity to house an estimated 1,000 persons for a minimum of 72 hours of self-sustained continuous operation. Additionally, this facility is scheduled to house a county health department clinic and a premier health clinic, a county effort to increase access to health care.
David Halstead, interim deputy director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, added, “This shelter and clinic is a testament to the coordinated efforts of state, local and federal entities to ensure that residents are served and protected during a disaster.”
The project was made possible by a $6.3 million grant provided by the State of Florida. In addition, $979,722 in Federal Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds were used to complete the facility for a total state-federal investment of $7,368,451. The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) is a federally-funded program, administered by the State of Florida to help prevent future losses of life and property damage due to disasters. HMGP projects strengthen public facilities and equipment, schools, roadways, public utility systems, water control facilities and recreational areas in communities throughout Florida.
The Governor emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness year round. State emergency managers advise that the current El Niño pattern may trigger severe weather in Florida this winter and upcoming spring. The Governor noted that deadly tornado outbreaks struck during the overnight and early morning hours during El Niño events in 1982-83, 1997-98, and 2006-07. He recalled the tornadoes that struck Lake County in 2007 and killed 21 people, making it the deadliest tornado outbreak in the United States that year and the second deadliest in Florida’s history.
For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN! please visit www.FloridaDisaster.org. All students, teachers and parents can find educational information and free downloadable materials at www.KidsGetAPlan.com. And for the latest flash reports, go to www.YouTube.com/FloridaSERT.
“This new shelter facility will greatly enhance the capabilities of the county during disasters and other times of need, as well as continue to foster a culture of preparedness which is so important here in Florida,” said Governor Crist. “It is fitting that this regional shelter is named after Senator Mike Fasano, a great Floridian who exemplifies public service and has an unwavering commitment to the people of Florida.”
"I am both thrilled and honored to be a part of this state of the art facility. It gives me great peace of mind to know that in case of a hurricane, the residents of West Pasco will have a world class shelter to keep them safe throughout the storm," said Senator Mike Fasano.
The new 37,263 square foot facility is designed and constructed to meet the new International Code Council storm shelter standards. It can withstand hurricane wind gusts up to 190 miles per hour and has the capacity to house an estimated 1,000 persons for a minimum of 72 hours of self-sustained continuous operation. Additionally, this facility is scheduled to house a county health department clinic and a premier health clinic, a county effort to increase access to health care.
David Halstead, interim deputy director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, added, “This shelter and clinic is a testament to the coordinated efforts of state, local and federal entities to ensure that residents are served and protected during a disaster.”
The project was made possible by a $6.3 million grant provided by the State of Florida. In addition, $979,722 in Federal Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds were used to complete the facility for a total state-federal investment of $7,368,451. The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) is a federally-funded program, administered by the State of Florida to help prevent future losses of life and property damage due to disasters. HMGP projects strengthen public facilities and equipment, schools, roadways, public utility systems, water control facilities and recreational areas in communities throughout Florida.
The Governor emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness year round. State emergency managers advise that the current El Niño pattern may trigger severe weather in Florida this winter and upcoming spring. The Governor noted that deadly tornado outbreaks struck during the overnight and early morning hours during El Niño events in 1982-83, 1997-98, and 2006-07. He recalled the tornadoes that struck Lake County in 2007 and killed 21 people, making it the deadliest tornado outbreak in the United States that year and the second deadliest in Florida’s history.
For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN! please visit www.FloridaDisaster.org. All students, teachers and parents can find educational information and free downloadable materials at www.KidsGetAPlan.com. And for the latest flash reports, go to www.YouTube.com/FloridaSERT.
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