Florida’s U.S. Representative Kathy Castor cancelled a highly anticipated appearance at a Tampa Town Hall Meeting which was to take place on September 2. When I previously called her office and reported on that meeting, I was told it might be cancelled for being too small alocation and if one couldn’t be found it might be cancelled. So the entire meeting was indeed called off.

Instead, on that day, Castor did do something else important; she met with some senior citizens to discuss Medicare Advantage marketing abuses. Information about that meetingcan be seen here

An Alternative to Town Hall Meetings:
Meanwhile, the Tampa 912 Project is active all over Tampa Bay. I just joined, so sorry I am so late with this information: There is a General Membership Meeting Tonight, September 8, 7:00 pm.

To join Tampa’s 912 Project and see where the meeting is, go to their Home Page. If you are concerned about security, very little personal information is required. After joining, you will also be able to see their entire calendar here.

The Tampa 912’s next upcoming event is a Day of Prayer and Fasting on September 11, to commemorate the eighth anniversary of the 9/11/01 terrorist attack.

Oddly, it’s been reported that the Obama Team called “Organizing for America” may becommemorating 9/11 in a different way – by blitzing America with phone calls asking for support of the proposed health care plan.

A page on the “Organizing for America” website, captured by the Heritage Foundation but apparently visible only to registered members of the Organizing for America Team, contained this statement as of September 3rd: 

“All 50 states are coordinating in this – as we fight back against our own Right-Wing Domestic Terrorists who are subverting the American Democratic Process, whipped to a frenzy by their Fox Propaganda Network ceaselessly re-seizing power for their treacherous leaders.”

A portion of this document, as captured by the Heritage Foundation, can be seen here. 
Some critics of Obama’s plan take this paragraph to mean that people who disagree with HR 3200 are subversives – as bad as the terrorists who crashed into the buildings on 9/11/01.

If this was the Obama Team’s intent, someone is forgetting that Americans have the right to bring their concerns and petitions before their government. That’s in the First Amendment of a little document called the U.S. Constitution

Original Source

Jim Greer

Looks like turbulent waters ahead for Jim Greer.  From what I have been told the Hillsborough REC will meet this weekend and decide to cast a no confidence vote on Jim Greer.

Greer has been busy making sure that his buddy Gov. Charlie Crist gets elected Senator hands down rather than remaining neutral. But also when you throw in the Party Purges that are happening from the Panhandle all the way down to Brevard County.  It will be interesting to see how they vote on Greer.

No status update from the RPOF on those grievances as of yet.

A group of Central and South Florida business, political and civic leaders are banding together to lobby the federal government for $2.5 billion to build a high-speed train linking Orlando with Tampa.

The message of the organization, which conducted news conferences Tuesday in Orlando, Lakeland and Tampa, is that a fast train would create jobs, encourage quality development around the stations and help the environment by moving people out of cars and onto a train.

“This is the future, and this is what we need to fight for,” U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson, D-Orlando, said during the event at Orlando International Airport.

Grayson spoke before a gathering of high-speed supporters who’ve created a group called ConnectUs. It is run by Ed Turanchik, a developer and former Hillsborough County commissioner who led Central Florida’s unsuccessful attempt to host the 2012 Summer Olympics.

Turanchik said ConnectUs is a nonprofit formed about two months ago with $50,000 donated by a variety of businesses and individuals.

The group is seeking additional contributions of up to $5,000 apiece to launch an advertising campaign, according to Turanchik, who is working for free but could be compensated in the future.

The main form of communication the group has now is a Web site called FastRail ConnectUs.com. It asks people to sign up and pledge their support for a train that could go as fast as 150 mph on the 90-mile route largely along Interstate 4, starting at Orlando International Airport and ending in downtown Tampa.

Eventually, a Miami leg could be added as well.

“Trains are very cool things,” Turanchik said. “What’s cool about them is they connect us.”

Turanchik said businesses and government agencies in Miami, Orlando and Tampa all support the state’s bid for the train.

That cooperation is significant, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer said.

“We have to get away from competing with ourselves. … We’re Florida against the world,” Dyer said.

The federal Department of Transportation is planning to announce its first round of high-speed rail winners by mid-October.

Ten corridors are being considered, including Orlando to Tampa; Boston to Washington; Portland to Seattle; and San Diego to San Francisco.

If Florida is picked, construction could begin almost immediately, with service starting in 2014, the state’s pre-application says. Supporters say the train could create 25,000 jobs.

Only three of the 27 largest metropolitan areas in the country are without a fixed rail system. Orlando and Tampa are two of those, and Cincinnati-Louisville is the third.

Dyer is hoping support for a high-speed train will help SunRail, a planned, slower-running commuter train that would connect DeLand in Volusia County with downtown Orlando and Poinciana in Osceola. It could link with the fast train at a stop near OIA.

SunRail would cost $1.2billion, with $500 million or more possibly coming from the federal government. The first 31 miles, from south Volusia County to Sand Lake Road in Orange, could be up and running in 2012, with the remainder in 2014.

TAMPA — With the deadline looming to apply for federal stimulus money to build a high speed rail line, lawmakers, business leaders and community organizers will launch a campaign Tuesday to win funding for the project.

The group ConnectUs, a nonprofit founded by longtime rail supporter and former Hillsborough County Commissioner Ed Turanchik, is spearheading the effort.

“This is a grass-roots campaign that’s going to be working on this and elevating this in the public eye,” said Robert Armstead, a spokesperson for ConnectUs.

Florida is seeking $2.53 billion in federal stimulus money to start building a high speed rail line connecting Tampa to Orlando. Plans call for the tracks to eventually extend to Miami.

Three events in support of the effort are scheduled for Tuesday.

At 9:30 a.m., the Central Florida Partnership will host a rally at Orlando International Airport, with U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson-D, Orlando and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer as the featured speakers.

At 11:45 a.m., Republican Florida Sen. Paula Dockery will host an event at Lakeland City Hall.

And at 2 p.m., Democratic U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor and the Tampa Bay Partnership will host a rally at Stetson University College of Law.

The line is considered a top contender in the competition for $8 billion in stimulus money attached to President Barack Obama’s vision for “world-class passenger rail” in 10 major corridors, including Florida. Obama has pledged another $1 billion for high-speed rail for each of the next five years.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has singled out Florida and California — where the line would connect San Diego to San Francisco and Sacramento — as being “way ahead of the curve” with their high speed rail plans, meaning they could quickly meet Obama’s goal of creating jobs.

In Florida, environmental and ridership studies have been completed. The right-of-way for the tracks is largely in place, with plans to run trains in the median of Interstate 4.

Land for bullet train stations already has been committed in downtown Tampa on the site of the former Morgan Street jail and in Lakeland, Disney World and the Orlando International Airport.

“The only thing Florida has been lacking so far is a visible show of support from the citizens, the elected officials, communities, environmental groups and the business community,” Dockery said. “That’s really the purpose of ConnectUs, to gather all that support. Because it’s there. We just need to showcase it. If we can do that, Florida’s application is going to be heads above others.”

On July 31, U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson sent a letter to state Senate President Jeff Atwater, House Speaker Larry Cretul and state Democratic leaders, saying they need to get behind the effort if Florida wants to win the stimulus money. He suggested they write a letter to LaHood expressing support.

Last week, Republican state Sen. Mike Fasano did just that, making more than a dozen points about why the state should get the award. Among the arguments Fasano made: Work on the Tampa-Orlando line could begin in less than two years; the train would provide a safe transportation alternative for seniors; and it would help with hurricane evacuation.

Ten members of Florida’s federal legislative delegation also sent a letter in June to LaHood showing support for the project.

Signers included Democrats Castor, Grayson, Corrine Brown, Kendrick Meek, Robert Wexler, Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Alcee Hastings, and Republicans Lincoln Diaz-Balart, Mario Diaz-Balart and Adam Putnam.

LaHood will be in Florida around the first of September to meet with state and local officials about the project, said Brown, who chairs the U.S. House transportation committee’s subcommittee on railroads, pipelines and hazardous materials.

“He’s very interested in Florida,” said Corrine Brown, but noted that state lawmakers need to make financial commitments to the line. “I know the federal government wants to be partners. I know the locals want to be partners. But we’ve got to have the state at the table.”

U.S. Senator Mel Martinez and Congressman Adam H. Putnam are pleased to host an Education & Employment Fair

In partnership with Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce, Tampa Bay WorkForce Alliance

Federal agencies and local employers will be on hand to accept your resume and discuss employment opportunities with you. Community and employment resources will also provide information on the programs they offer. Educational workshops will be given on:

• How to apply for federal jobs

• Job search strategies in a down economy

• Resume development and interview tips

Where: Hillsborough Community College, Plant City Campus

John R. Trinkle Center • 1206 N. Park Rd. • Plant City, FL 33563

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Bring your updated resume and dress for success. This is a free event. For questions contact the Office of Senator Mel Martinez at 813.977.6450 or Congressman Adam H. Putnam at 863.534.3530.

TALLAHASSEE – State Sen. Victor Crist and former Hillsborough County Commissioner Chris Hart III are among the latest Bay-area residents to file applications for the post of Hillsborough County supervisor of elections.

Gov. Charlie Crist – no relation to Sen. Crist – received the latter’s application for the elections supervisor position late Tuesday and Hart’s application on Monday. Both are Republicans from Tampa. The governor must appoint a replacement for Phyllis Busansky, a Democrat elected elections supervisor in 2008 who died last month. There are 14 applicants, a majority of whom are Republicans.

Sen. Crist served in the state House from 1992 to 2000 and in the state Senate since then, but must leave in 2010 due to term limits.

Crist is also president of Metropolitan Communications, an advertising agency, and heads the University Area Community Development Corp., a nonprofit agency he founded.

Hart served as a Hillsborough County commissioner from 1994-2002. A U.S. Army veteran, he is now a business consultant and CEO of Hart Enterprises. Hart has served on the county’s elections canvassing board.

Other new applicants include Janet Dougherty, an environmental consultant who applied for the position in 2003 but lost to Buddy Johnson; Liana Fox, a Hillsborough Community College professor from Temple Terrace; Gary Santti, a civil engineer from Apollo Beach; Daniel Ballister, a public affairs specialist; and Allen Strauss, an accountant from Tampa.

Dan Gelber

State Representatives Darryl Rouson (D-Tampa), Janet Long (D-Seminole), Michael Scionti (D-Tampa), Bill Heller (D-St. Petersburg) and Betty Reed (D-Tampa) today announced their endorsement of Senator Dan Gelber (D-Miami Beach) as Florida’s next Attorney General.

Rep. Darryl Rouson said, “Floridians need strong leaders who are going to fight for their rights and protect them from unscrupulous practices. I witnessed Dan’s strong leadership skills on the House Floor and as Florida’s next Attorney General, he will continue to be a voice of reason on reforming the status quo and the way business is done in Tallahassee.”

Rep. Janet Long said, “After serving with Dan for two years in the Florida House , I know he will stand up to protect Floridians who have been victims of fraud and dishonest practices. He has the mindset and courtroom experience we need in our next Attorney General. I am proud to endorse Dan in his new journey to serve the people of Florida as their Attorney General.”

Rep. Michael Scionti said, “Having served with Dan, I know he will lead the charge to protect consumers and be a real voice for everyday Floridians. Dan has fought against public corruption and wasteful spending and will put his skill sets to work as Florida’s next Attorney General.”

Rep. Bill Heller said, “I have met few individuals who share Dan’s passion and drive to bring change to Florida. Working families across our state need Dan in Tallahassee and on the Cabinet working to keep our communities safe. I am proud to stand with him because he is the type of leader we need working on behalf of Floridians. ”

Rep. Betty Reed said, “I am supporting Dan because he is never afraid to take a stand and fight for what is right. He has always been the first to demand accountability and has long been a champion of transparency and an open government.”

“Our state faces enormous challenges and we need leaders in Tallahassee that will stand up to change the status quo,” said Sen. Gelber. “Floridians need a stronger commitment to public safety and consumer protections from our state government. I want to bring about that commitment to keep Floridians safe at home and in their communities.”

Dan Gelber was elected to the State House of Representatives in 2000, serving as the House Democratic Leader from 2006-2008; and elected to the State Senate in 2008. Prior to elected life, Dan spent nearly a decade as a federal prosecutor, working mostly on public corruption, narcotics and civil rights cases, and serving as a top deputy in that office. He was then appointed chief counsel and staff director for the United States Senate’s investigations committee where he focused primarily on terrorism and domestic security. Dan is an AV rated attorney and listed in various peer review publications including Best Lawyers in America and Florida’s Legal Elite. He and his wife Joan Silverstein make their home in Miami Beach with their three children. For more information about Dan Gelber, please visit www.dangelber.com.

Randy Wilkinson

Bartow, Fl – Randy Wilkinson announced today that he will be running for Congressional District 12.  Currently Dennis Ross (Lakeland), and Thomas Snyder (Winter Haven) have declared candidacy as Republicans. Lori Edwards and Doug Tudor are expected to be the Democrats in the race. Randy Wilkinson who is currently a County Commissioner for District 2 is term limited in his current office.  His term expires in 2010.

There has been much speculation about what Randy would run for. Randy Wilkinson who is currently a County Commissioner for District 2 is term limited in his current office.  His term expires in 2010. His announcement took place at Blunt park with a crowd of about  40 supporters.

Central Florida Politics was there to film this announcement.

Paula Dockery

Lakeland, FL – Florida State Senator Paula Dockery (R – District 15), today announced her endorsement of Dennis Ross for Congress. In announcing her endorsement, Senator Dockery said, “After careful consideration and soul searching, I have ruled out a run for the Congressional seat being vacated by Adam Putnam. During that decision making process it became clear that my passion for public policy is in state government and not at the Federal level. Having said that, I can think of no one better to succeed Congressman Adam Putnam, then my dear friend and former Colleague, Dennis Ross.”

Senator Dockery continued, “I know something about standing your ground when the going gets tough, and gladly accepting the consequences of that stance. I have a deep appreciation for the courage and spirit it took for Dennis to stand his ground when contentious issues arose in the Legislature.

“Dennis has always put the best interests of his constituents and taxpayers first. Dennis has walked the walk and not just talked the talk. Dennis has proven to be a fighter for the principles he believes in. For this and so much more, it is my pleasure to endorse my friend, Dennis Ross and I look forward to his service in Congress.”

Upon receiving Senator Dockery’s endorsement, Dennis Ross said, “I am truly honored and excited to have the support of my friend of nearly 20 years, and former colleague in the Florida Legislature, Senator Paula Dockery. Paula and Doc have been dear friends to Cindy and me for as long as we can remember, and no political endeavor would be complete without them. The citizens of Florida know Senator Dockery to be a tenacious fighter on their behalf. Her selfless and tireless work on behalf of hard working taxpayers everywhere should serve as a model to all who aspire to public service.”

Ross went on to say, “Beyond her principled leadership in the Florida Legislature, I know Senator Dockery as a friend, a colleague, and a devoted wife to Doc. I value our friendship, I will continue to look to her for advice and guidance, and I look forward to Paula continuing to serve the people of Florida for many years to come.”

In addition to Senator Dockery, Dennis Ross has earned the endorsement of: Former Governor Jeb Bush as well as Members of Congress Gus Bilirakis, Ginny Brown-Waite, Jeff Miller, Connie Mack, Tom Rooney, Lincoln Diaz-Balart, Mario Diaz-Balart, and Vern Buchanan. Local leaders have also endorsed Dennis’ bid for Congress including, GOP National Committeeman Paul Senft, Form er Polk GOP Chair Jean Burt, The Reverend Lynne Breidenbach, and Florida Federation of Republican Women President Linda Ivell.

Senator Paula Dockery currently represents District 15 in the Florida Senate which encompasses portions of Polk, Osceola, Hernando, Sumter and Lake counties. She currently serves a Chair of the Criminal Justice Committee and serves on the Environmental Protection Committee, the Transportation Committee, the Transportation and Economic Development Appropriations Committee and the Joint Committee on Public Counsel Oversight.

Senator Dockery has been prominently mentioned as a possible candidate for Governor of Florida and will make her future plans known at a later date.

You can find out more about Dennis Ross’ campaign by visiting http://www.electdennisross.com

WASHINGTON (26 June) – U.S. Rep. Gus M. Bilirakis (R-Fla.), representing Florida’s 9th Congressional District, today issued the following statement after opposing the House “Cap & Trade” plan – H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009:

“As Floridians face double digit unemployment for the first time in 34 years, the last thing we need is an energy tax that will drive energy costs through the roof for families and hamstring small businesses who are trying to survive and create jobs. This deeply flawed bill will severely disadvantage American businesses and shift jobs to other nations like China and India who do not cap emissions. We must balance the need to protect our environment with the need for economic growth and job creation. Unfortunately this bill fails to effectively strike that balance and will do more harm than good.

“Congress should instead increase domestic energy production, promote energy efficiency, and encourage private investment in renewable energy technologies as part of a comprehensive plan to address our energy needs.”

on the web: Bilirakis House Site