Friday, December 4, 2009

Florida Senators Honor FSU Football Coach

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators George LeMieux (R-FL) and Bill Nelson (D-FL) yesterday introduced a resolution honoring and commending Florida State University (FSU) Coach Bobby Bowden for his successful career. Coach Bowden has led the Seminoles football team for the past 34 years.

“For the past 34 years, Bobby Bowden has been a Tallahassee institution, helping young athletes grow to succeed in both football and in life,” LeMieux said. “As his legendary career comes to a close, Floridians can take inspiration from his leadership as one of the most successful college football coaches of all time. His wisdom, loyalty, and warmth have touched the lives of many throughout the years and will continue to serve as an example to all Floridians.”

“Bobby Bowden put FSU on the map,” said U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson. “Because of his accomplishments most everybody in America has heard of Florida State.”

Over his 44-year career, Bowden coached at Howard College, now Samford University, West Virginia University, and Florida State University. His 388 coaching victories are the second highest in college football history. Coach Bowden led FSU to 2 national championships in 1993 and 1999, and to a bowl game every year since 1982.

Statement by Governor Charlie Crist Regarding the Legislature’s Rail Transit Progress

“I am grateful to House sponsor Representative Gary Aubuchon, Chairman Dave Murzin and the House Economic Development & Community Affairs Policy Council for recognizing the importance of SunRail to Florida’s residents, visitors and businesses. The Council’s unanimous approval today demonstrates a common-sense approach to job creation and economic development that will benefit our state for decades. This is a positive first step, and I look forward to continued legislative support for transforming Florida’s transportation future.

“I also want to congratulate Chairman Andy Gardiner for conducting an excellent workshop in the Florida Senate today. The thoughtful and thorough discussion will certainly further our understanding and appreciation of what the Sunshine State will gain from additional passenger rail.”

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Lt. Governor Meets with Brevard County Business and Industry Leaders

SATELLITE BEACH – Today, Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp met with a group of Brevard County’s innovators and industry leaders at Satellite Beach’s Lighting Science Group Corporation headquarters to discuss emerging technologies and tour their facility.

During a luncheon meeting with area businesses, the Lt. Governor stated, “The space industry is critical to Florida’s economy and benefits the well-being of all the people of Florida. It is clear that innovation, together with a focus on retaining and transitioning some of the ‘best and brightest’ highly skilled workforce to new opportunities once the shuttle retires, is an important step in addressing the continued economic health of our state.”

Earlier in the day, the Lt. Governor toured United Space Alliance and spoke with many workers who currently serve the space shuttle program and anticipate cutbacks once the shuttle program no longer requires their services. With only five launches left, the space shuttle fleet is expected to retire in 2010. NASA is developing plans for the next-generation space program and is waiting for the White House to issue its policy decisions following the Augustine Commission Report.

“One of our key priorities is to develop and execute programs designed to retain and expand space industry business in Florida, while maintaining the critical workforce and their skill sets required for the state’s next-generation space programs,” noted Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp.

RNC CHAIRMAN STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT OBAMA’S AFGHANISTAN STRATEGY

WASHINGTON – Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Michael Steele released the following statement today:

“Although this decision took far too long and it should not have, I am glad the president will finally provide General McChrystal with the troops he needs. However, tonight’s speech must be the beginning, not the end, of the case President Obama makes to the American people as to why this is, as he said during the campaign, ‘a war we have to win.’ If the president remains committed to this crucial fight, Republicans – and the American people – will stand with him. But sending mixed signals by outlining the exit before these troops even get on the ground undermines their ability to succeed.”