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.
RNC LAUNCHES RADIO AD “MAKE WASHINGTON LISTEN”
RNC LAUNCHES RADIO AD “MAKE WASHINGTON LISTEN”
WASHINGTON – Today, the Republican National Committee (RNC) released a new radio ad, “Make Washington Listen,” which will air nationally as Senate Democrats try to impose their health care experiment on America.
“MAKE WASHINGTON LISTEN” SCRIPT
Time: 00:60
VOICE: “A message from Republican National Chairman Michael Steele.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “The Democrats are accusing us Republicans of trying to delay and stonewall their government takeover of health care.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “You know what? They’re finally right.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Republicans are trying to stop this disastrous health care takeover.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Republicans are trying to keep the liberals from creating yet another entitlement program, spending yet another trillion dollars.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “America’s already seen the results of this year’s ‘binge spending’ by the Democrats: our economy’s in deep trouble and our jobs are evaporating.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Now Democrats want a health care bill that will raise taxes… cut Medicare…and increase premiums.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Democrats know America doesn’t want this health care takeover….but they’re arrogantly trying to jam it down our throats.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “This is our last chance to stop them. Contact your Senators. Make Washington listen to you.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Log on to GOP.com …make Washington listen….before it is too late.”
VOICE: “The Republican National Committee is responsible for the content of this advertising. Paid for by the Republican National Committee. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. www.gop.com”
WASHINGTON – Today, the Republican National Committee (RNC) released a new radio ad, “Make Washington Listen,” which will air nationally as Senate Democrats try to impose their health care experiment on America.
“MAKE WASHINGTON LISTEN” SCRIPT
Time: 00:60
VOICE: “A message from Republican National Chairman Michael Steele.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “The Democrats are accusing us Republicans of trying to delay and stonewall their government takeover of health care.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “You know what? They’re finally right.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Republicans are trying to stop this disastrous health care takeover.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Republicans are trying to keep the liberals from creating yet another entitlement program, spending yet another trillion dollars.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “America’s already seen the results of this year’s ‘binge spending’ by the Democrats: our economy’s in deep trouble and our jobs are evaporating.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Now Democrats want a health care bill that will raise taxes… cut Medicare…and increase premiums.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Democrats know America doesn’t want this health care takeover….but they’re arrogantly trying to jam it down our throats.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “This is our last chance to stop them. Contact your Senators. Make Washington listen to you.”
CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Log on to GOP.com …make Washington listen….before it is too late.”
VOICE: “The Republican National Committee is responsible for the content of this advertising. Paid for by the Republican National Committee. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. www.gop.com”
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