Saturday, April 14th Luncheon – Florida House Representative Rick Kriseman – Florida Legislative Update and 2012 Election Preview
Representative Kriseman captivated our members last year with his 2011 Florida Legislative Session update, so by popular demand, we have invited him back in 2012 to do it again.
The Florida redistricting initiative, mandated by voters in 2010, has been the focus of legislative efforts this session. Rick will update us on this important issue, as well as the details on the budget, the overall state of Democrats in Tallahassee, and his take on the 2012 elections. He will also elaborate on an effort by the leaders of the Democratic caucuses in the Florida Senate and House of Representatives to develop a set of Guiding Principles to move Florida forward. Representative Kriseman commented on the Guiding Principles, “It has become clear to Democrats in the Legislature that it is not enough to just speak out against bad ideas and policies. It’s not enough to stand up in fervent defense of hard-working, middle-class Floridians, seniors, children and small business owners. It is time now for Democrats in the Legislature to clearly communicate to Floridians what guides us and how our values and beliefs shape the legislation we propose and the legislative stances we take.”
With a background in law, Kriseman served as a St. Petersburg City Council member for 6 years. In 2006, he won the Florida House seat in District 53 with more than 60% of the vote. He was reelected without opposition in 2008 and was one of the few Florida Democrats left standing in 2010. He now serves as the Democratic Caucus Policy Chair. Rick will be introduced by his friend and colleague, and our Congressional Candidate, Keith Fitzgerald.
Reservations are required. Read instructions below carefully.
To make a reservation, e-mail reserve@sarasotadems.com and indicate the name of your guests and your menu choices, or leave that information on the voice mail at 379-9233.
Menu choices for this month are: Grilled Tilapia in Lemon Caper Sauce with Basmati Rice & Chefs Vegetables OR Fresh Vegetable Greek Salad. Dessert is Apple Pie.
The luncheon is held at Laurel Oak Country Club, 2700 Gary Player Blvd, Sarasota, FL. Travel 2 miles east of I-75 on Bee Ridge Road. Turn left at the light at Gary Player Blvd. Bent Tree will be on your right. Proceed past the guard shack, through one stop sign, and the club house will be on your left.
Social Hour starts at 11 with the program beginning promptly at noon.
Cost for Members is $23 each. Cost for non-members or walk-in’s is $25 each. You may pay by cash or with a check made payable to the DCS. Please fill out your checks ahead of time.
IMPORTANT – Reservations are required and must be made by midnight, April 11th. Cancellations must also be made by midnight, April 11th or we will bill you for your meal.