November 10, 2008
Rep. Mica met with representatives from the Boys & Girls Club of Northeast Florida, Boys & Girls Club of St. Augustine and the West Augustine CRA today to discuss the progress of the new Boys & Girls Club facility to be located in West Augustine near Chase Park.
(Press)
Rep. Mica reiterated his strong support for the building of a Veterans Administration (VA) community based outpatient clinic in Putnam County.
(Press)
October 24, 2008
Rep. Mica participated in a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Orlando Veterans Hospital. The VA medical complex will also include domiciliary care for veterans who are homeless and have serious mental or substance abuse conditions that need attendant care.
(Photos)
October 23, 2008
As a senior member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, Rep. Mica participated in ongoing hearings regarding the financal crisis and the role of federal regulators in the crisis.
(Press) (Updates)
October 21, 2008
Rep. Mica and Congressional Leaders called for a Special Counsel to investigate the actions of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
(Press)
September 27, 2008
Congressman Mica welcomed the Volusia Honor Air Flight of over 100 World War II Veterans and their Guardians to Washington D.C. Despite overcast skies, the days activities were a huge success. Congressman Mica escorted the group to the World war II Memorial where they were able to also meet with former Senator Bob Dole and his wife Senator Elizabeth Dole. From there the group traveled by bus with police escort to the Library of Congress for the lunch reception. After lunch Rep. Mica then escorted the group to Arlington National Cemetery for a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns.
(Photos) (Statement) (Press)
September 22, 2008
Congressman Mica convened a roundtable meeting of the City of Palatka Commission concerning the revitalization of the waterfront and downtown areas of Palatka. City and county leaders were presented the opportunity to find answers to their questions about development from experts. Participants learned about what grants are available, the application process and other information in order to successfully compete for scarce governmental funds.
Rep. Mica and local officials signed a Memorandum of Agreement for the St. Johns River to the Sea Loop project.
(Photos)
September 21, 2008
Rep. Mica participated in a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Northeast Florida National Veterans Cemetery. This new site provides veterans a new burial location as other VA cemeteries no longer can accommodate new internments. The Veterans Administration anticipates burials to begin in January, 2009, and that this cemetery will serve veterans’ needs for more than 100 years.
(Photos)
Congressman Mica greeted and thanked the voluteers and participants at the North Florida Bike MS event in St. Augustine. Rep. Mica awarded the first bike riders across the finish line and encouraged the crowd to continue their hard work earning monies for local programs and MS research.
September 15, 2008
Rep. Mica spoke on the House Floor regarding the energy crisis that is currently crippling our nation.
(Statement)
September 13, 2008
Rep. Mica attended a special ceremony honoring the life and service of Sergeant Bryan Tutten at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2391 in St. Augustine, which was re-named in his honor. To commemerate the occaison Rep. Mica inserted a statement into the Congressional Record honoring Sergeant Tutten.
(Statement) (Photos)
Rep. Mica stopped by the Easter Seals Open House in Daytona Beach. Congressman Mica has long been a supporter of the organization and all they do for the disabled.
September 3, 2008
Rep. Mica and fellow Republican Members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee visited the site of the I-35W Bridge reconstruction project in Minnesota, which has been completed just 13 months after the tragic collapse.
(Photos)
August 27, 2008
Rep. Mica spoke to the Hastings Rotary Club at the American Legion on the topic of current projects in St. John's County and Floridas' 7th District.
(Photos)
Rep. Mica spoke to the Palatka Rotary Club at the Price Martin Center in Palatka on the topic of current Putnam County and 7th District projects.
(Photos)
Congressman Mica met with Putnam Emergency Operations Center First Responders to discuss damages caused by Tropical Storm Fay and preparations for future events.
Rep. Mica was a guest on both the Mary Mackie Conner show on WIYD 1240 AM and the The Deacon Show on WPLK 800 AM. Congressman Mica and the hosts discussed the demolition of the Frank George apartment complex and the re-development of Downtown Palatka.
(Photos)
Rep. Mica participated in the groundbreaking event for the numerous projects to modernize and upgrade the Kay Larkin Airport in Palatka including a new terminal building and new hangars. The improvements will help aid in the economic development of the region.
(Photos)
Signaling the wrecking ball operator, Rep. Mica kicked off the demolition of the Frank George apartment complex.
(Photos)
August 25, 2008
Congressman Mica sent a letter to President Bush requesting disaster relief assistance for residents of Central Florida experiencing flooding from Tropical Storm Fay.
(Press)
August 20, 2008
Congressman Mica returned to the floor of the House of Representatives to rejoin the Republican protest in response to the Democratic Majority’s inaction on energy. Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi abruptly gaveled down a vote to adjourn for five weeks without taking action to lower energy prices or break our dependence on foreign oil.
While on the floor, Rep. Mica spoke of the constituents who asked him to return to Washington D.C. to address the energy crisis; the Majority’s unwillingness to allow an open vote on energy legislation; our nation’s vast domestic energy resources that are currently off-limits; and solutions to our energy challenges.
(Press)
August 19, 2008
Rep. Mica was a keynote speaker at the American Association of Airport Executives Birdstrike Aviation Safety Conference held in Florida. The Congressman addressed a crowd of nearly 400 as he discussed Congress’ role in providing and promoting aviation safety.
Rep. Mica and officials from the Florida Department of Transportation, Seminole County and the City of Sanford met with Amtrak representatives to discuss future renovations to the Sanford Auto Train Station. At the meeting, Amtrak officials announced that the updated facility will undergo between $6 and &7 million in improvements intended to improve the function, process and flow.
(Press)
At an emergency meeting convened by U.S. Reps. John Mica and Tom Feeney, local leaders tentatively agreed to cover a $4 million shortfall necessary to the completion of the Rose Bay Restoration project. An impasse had endangered the project, but as a result of the discussions, the St. Johns Water management District and the U.S. Corps of Engineers reached a pending agreement with Volusia County and the City of Port Orange to cover the shortfall.
(Press)
August 18, 2008
At the Flagler County Airport, Rep. Mica, Airport Manager Jack Thompson and other State, local and community leaders broke ground on a new Air Traffic Control Tower. “Flagler County Airport is the fourth busiest general aviation airport in the nation that is currently without an air traffic control tower,” said Mica. “The Addition of this tower will put federally certified air traffic controllers on the ground here and significantly improve the level of safety for aircraft operations at the airport and in the surrounding airspace.”
August 15, 2008
Congressman Mica met with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in California to discuss the Congressman’s National Strategic Transportation Plan. The Governor shared Congressman Mica’s perspective that our nation is in need of increased investment in its infrastructure and needs to use a more strategic, intermodal approach to transportation. He offered to assist in promoting the concept of a strategic transportation plan and will be a valuable advocate as he utilizes his leading role within a national, bipartisan campaign for increased infrastructure investment. Congressman Mica extended the Governor an invitation to testify before Congress on our national infrastructure needs and the importance of a strategic and intermodal plan.
August 11, 2008
Rep. Mica addressed the 67th annual conference of the Southeastern Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. In the speech, the Congressman spoke of current funding shortfalls in the federal Highway Trust Fund and future transportation and infrastructure projects.
Following the speech, Congressman Mica announced that the Central Florida Commuter Rail project made an important leap forward when federal officials announced the project was approved to enter the Final Design phase. This designation by the Federal Transit Administration marks federal recognition that all environmental work has been completed and approved, and the project sponsor can begin expenditure of federal funds for right of way acquisition, equipment and other project requirements.
(Press)
August 2, 2008
Rep. Mica met with County Commissioner Nancy Harris, Pomona Park Mayor Alonzo Middleton, Welaka Mayor Charlie Wilson, Crescent City Mayor Lee Kinsella and Putnam Courier Journal Publisher Jeanie Frederick. They discussed a variety of issues of importance to South Putnam County as well as federal appropriations for projects in each area.
July 23, 2008
Rep. Mica met with Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle as he represented the eight "Great Lakes States" (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin) to discuss the Great Lakes- St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact.
Congressman Mica spoke with Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) John P. Woodley Jr. about the Debary Creek restoration project. The Florida Dept. of Transportation and the Army Corps of Engineers met earlier this month to discuss the project and signs for further action look positive.
July 18, 2008
Rep. Mica participated in the Marie Makie Connor Program on WIYD 1260AM to discuss the $742,500 funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation for Putnam County Ride Solutions' Brevi Bus and other issues in Putnam.
July 14, 2008
Rep. Mica participated in a Deltona City Commission roundtable meeting with citizens, elected officials and members of the press to discuss the Commuter Rail project, the Debary Creek restoration project and other National and District issues.
Continuing his efforts to replace substandard public housing and to help revitalize Downtown Palatka, Rep. Mica joined Palatka Mayor Karl Flagg, State Senator Evelyn Lynn, State Rep. Joe Pickens, other local officials and business leaders in the Demolition Ceremony of the Frank George Apartments. Occupying an important location, this property is the key to economic development and opportunity in Downtown Palatka.
July 13, 2008
Rep. Mica attended the Suburban Women's Club Federated Elephant Stampede in Longwood.
July 12, 2008
Rep. Mica attended the St. John's County Republican Headquaters grand opening.
July 10, 2008
Rep. Mica was interviewed on the "Living on Earth" program on National Public Radio, in regard to his support of the Amtrak re-authorization.
Congressman Mica spoke to members of the NIAF (National Italian American Foundation).
Rep. Mica attended the Florida Chamber Foundation and Children's Campaign Reception.
July 9, 2008
As the Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Rep. Mica participated in a Highways and Transit Hearing on the topic of the impacts of existing laws and regulations for truck weights and lengths.
As a member of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee, Rep. Mica participated in a hearing regarding the manufacturers of FEMA trailers and elevated formaldehyde levels.
Congressman Mica met with New Jersey Senator Frank Lautenberg to discuss High Speed Rail and Amtrak.
June 28, 2008
Rep. Mica participated and spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Clyde E. Lassen State Veterans Nursing Home in St. Augustinethis new facility will serve aging veterans from throughout the region.
(Photos)
June 26, 2008
Rep. Mica met with members of the University of Florida's Student Government Association to discuss the form and function of the U.S. Government.
As the Ranking Member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Congressman Mica participated in a tele-video conference with the Western Business Roundtable to discuss the Clean Water Restoration Act.
June 25, 2008
Rep. Mica attended a Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Material Subcommittee hearing on the issue of pipeline security.
June 24, 2008
Rep. Mica conducted a meeting with members of the FAA (Federal Aviation Authority) and Florida NATCA (Ntl. Air Traffic Controllers Association) to discuss controller staffing and other issues.
Rep. Mica conducted a "Roundtable" meeting with the Travel and Tourism Caucus on the importance of tourism for the U.S. economy.
June 23, 2008
Congressman Mica attended and met with constituents at the St. John's Chamber Quarterly Breakfast.
June 19, 2008
Rep. Mica presented Ashley Persico of Orange City with a Congressional Award for her community service.
June 18, 2008
Rep. Mica spoke to the Associated Builders and Contractors on the topics including the economy, jobs and taxes.
Congressman Mica met with students from the Close-Up program to discuss the legislative process and other matters.
Rep. Mica met with the University of Florida's Dean of Education, Catherine Emihovich to discuss teacher preperation programs.
June 17, 2008
Rep. Mica hosted the Short Sea Shipping Symposium to discuss the transport of freight via the nation's inland and coastal waterways.
(Press)
June 13, 2008
Rep. Mica met with members of the Allegheny County Airport Authority and Walter Buss of TransRapid USA to discuss aviation issues.
Ranking Member Mica met with fellow Representative, Phil English to discuss improvements to Interstate 80.
June 11, 2008
As the Ranking Member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Rep. Mica managed the Minority time as the Passenger Rail Investment Improvement Act was debated. This legislation was agreed to in the House with the Congressman’s support and is currently being considered in the Senate.
(Press) (Congressional Record)
Congressman Mica met with Colombian Ambassador Carolina Barco to discuss trade, the war on drugs, terrorist threats, and humanitarian donations to Colombia.
June 10, 2008
Congressman Mica appeared on the C-Span program, Washington Journal, to discuss the Passenger Rail Investment Improvement Act. Rep. Mica is an original sponsor of this legislation and co-authored the high speed rail section.
Rep. Mica participated in a Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing concerning the financing of infrastructure investments.
Rep. Mica participated in a Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing concerning the financing of infrastructure investments.
Rep. Mica conducted the latest in a series of tele-townhall meetings with a portion of the residents of Seminole County.
(Form)
June 9, 2008
Congressman Mica addressed supporters of the Commuter Rail project and announced the findings of theCommuter Rail Liability Report, debunking many of the mythsrelated to Commuter Rail liability.
(Photos) (Press)
June 7, 2008
Congressman Mica participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony fot the new Veterans Clinic in Orange City.
(Photos)
May 30, 2008
Congressman Mica met with New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg to discuss his plans for a high-speed rail system for the Northeast corridor.
(Mayor Bloomberg's Press Release)
May 29, 2008
Congressman Mica appeared on Fox News and was interviewed on the subject of a High-Speed Rail system for the Northeast corridor.
(Video)
May 20, 2008
Congressman Mica hosted the 9th Annual Chamber of Commerce Fly-In. Members from the Daytona/ Halifax, Ormond Beach, Putnam, Seminole, St. Johns, West Volusia and Winter Park Chambers were in attendance.
(Photos)
May 19, 2008
Congressman Mica hosted a FEMA Rountable Event in DeLand. Topics included reimbursement for outstanding payments to individuals who were effected by the 2006 tornadoes.
(Photos)
May 17, 2008
Congressman Mica, along with his wife and staff, accompanied the Voulsia Honor Air Flight of World War II Veterans on their visit to Washington D.C.. Events included a full orchestra greeting at Ronald Reagan National Airport, a visit to the World War II Memorial where the veterans were met by former Senator Bob Dole. Congressman Mica then hosted a luncheon where the group was addressed by the Deptuty Secretary of Defense, Gordon England. The group then tavelled to Arlington National Cemetery where Congressman Mica and Volusia County Veterans participated in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns. The remainder of the day was spent visiting various memorials throughout the Washington D.C. area.
(Press) (Press) (Photos) (Congressional Record)
May 8, 2008
Congressman Mica spoke with students from Hinson Middle School about our American history and government and provided the students with a tour of the Capitol building.
(Photos)
Transportation and Infrastucture Committee Republican Leader, John Mica joined other Members in introducing the "Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act."
"This Bill represents a historic opportunity to make high speed rail and next generation rail service a reality in the United States," Mica said. "The bill also includes long needed reforms for Amtrak."
"The nation's highway and airspace are crippled by congestion and we're struggling through a growing energy crisis during which our fuel prices have dramatically increased daily. High speed rail can and must be an integral part of the solution to these critical transportation problems."
(Press) (Photos)
May 7, 2008
Congressman and Mrs. John Mica attended the 35th Anniversary Celebration for the Florida House.
(Florida House)
May 6, 2008
Rep. Mica took a photo with and gave a tour of the Capitol to students from Geneva Academy.
(Photos)
May 5, 2008
Congressman Mica held a Press Conference regarding the future of the Central Florida Commuter Rail project.
(Photos)
April 30, 2008
Rep. Mica spoke to the National Association of Railroad Passengers regarding high speed rail and the future of Amtrak.
Congressman Mica attended a Joint Session of Congress for an address by Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern.
Rep. Mica spoke at the National School Transportation Association’s Annual Washington Spring Meeting. Topics included bus transit and highway programs.
Congressman Mica met with City of Maitland Officials including Mayor Doug Kinson and Councilman Jeff Flowers to discuss the current needs of Maitland.
April 29, 2008
Rep. Mica took a photo with and gave a tour of the Capitol to students from Ormond Middle School during their trip to the nation's capital.
Rep. Mica hosted the sixth in a series of tele-townhall meetings with the residents of Volusia County.
April 24, 2008
Rep. Mica met with Randy Croy of Serenity House to discuss the success and future of programs helping homeless veterans and others with substance abuse problems.
April 22, 2008
Rep. Mica hosted the fifth in a series of tele-townhall meetings with the residents of Volusia County.
April 21, 2008
Rep. Mica gave the keynote speech at the Texas Department of Transportation Forum in Austin.
April 17, 2008
Congressman Mica was presented with the House Transportation Leaders Award for his continuing work as a leader of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and for his work in this field.
April 15, 2008
Rep. Mica met with Mr. Don Rhoten from the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind regarding federal and state programs to assist the sight and hearing impaired.
April 13, 2008
Congressman Mica addressed the Junior Statesmen Foundation at the Lake Mary Marriott speaking on Congress and current issues.
Congressman Mica hosted a 2008 7th Congressional District High School Art Contest Exhibition and Awards Presentation at the DeBary Hall Historic Site.
Rep. and Mrs. Mica attended the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens event.
April 12, 2008
Accompanied by his wife Pat, Rep. Mica attended the 7th Annual Dinner on the Avenue in Winter Park.
April 11, 2008
Rep. Mica met with Flagler Beach City Officials including Mayor Alice Baker, City Manager Bernie Murphy and Police Chief Dan Cody concerning local projects and needs
Rep. Mica attended a Veteran’s of Foreign Wars event (VFW 8696). Topics included the timeline for the Northeast Florida Veteran’s Hospital and other issues.
Rep. Mica hosted a 2008 7th Congressional District High School Art Contest Exhibition and Awards Presentation at the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine.
April 9, 2008
Rep. Mica gave the keynote speech at the Transportation Intermediaries Association Breakfast covering matters such as freight cost and infrastructure expansion.
Rep. Mica met with St. Johns County Engineer Press Tompkins regarding beach restoration and other local initiatives.
(Press)
April 8, 2008
Rep. Mica took a photo with students from Trinity Christian Academy during their trip to Washington D.C..
Rep. Mica hosted the fourth in a series of tele-townhall meetings with Flagler County residents.
April 6, 2008
Rep. Mica joined with community sponsors for the presentation of pianos to needy students for the Steinway Society Gifting event at the Steinway Piano Galleries in Altamonte Springs. The students were chosen in a competitive process and the 5 winners were presented with refurbished pianos.
April 4, 2008
Rep. Mica met with FTA Administrator Jim Simpson and State and Local Officials to discuss the Central Florida Commuter Rail project. Administrator Simpson toured future commuter rail locations and reviewed station development plans.
Rep. Mica, accompanied by his wife Pat, attended the Seniors First Western Nights City Lights Gala at the Winter Park Farmer's Market. Senior's First is a program that supports senior programs and Meals on Wheels.
March 13, 2008
Rep. Mica gave the keynote speech to the American Association of Airport Executives and the Airport Council International for their North American Conference in Washington D.C., addressing issues such as aviation security, the FAA Reauthorization and the Congressional agenda for the upcoming year.
March 11, 2008
Rep. Mica spoke to the American Public Transportation Association in Washington D.C. about his priorities for transit in the Second Session of the 110th Congress.
Rep. Mica hosted the third in a series of tele-town hall meetings with the residents of Putnam County. For information on upcoming tele-townhall meetings, please refer to the link below.
(Form)
March 10, 2008
Rep. Mica attended the Grand Opening for Lakeside Village in Daytona Beach. in securing funds. The Daytona Beach Housing Authority was able to complete the project under their Hope IV program with assistance from Rep. Mica. This completes replacement of over 200 units of public housing that pre-dates World War II with new affordable residences.
March 8, 2008
Rep. Mica attended the Youth Celebration of the Arts festival in Gemini Springs and gave reamarks to several hundred students and parents attending the opening ceremony. The DeBary Art League has begun construction of the Gatewaty Center for the Arts which will enhance cultural opporrtunities in Volusia County.
Rep. Mica supported efforts by students, parents,and teachers at the PTO's exceptional "Lights Camera Action" Gala in St. Johns County. This fund raising event will aid in the building of a school theater for students.
March 7, 2008
Rep. Mica addressed the Orlando Republican Women's Network in Orlando, where he discussed current issues with the organization including, immigration, the commuter rail and taxes.
In a meeting with the Florida Engineering Society in Orlando, Rep. Mica discussed his vision for funding the nation's infrastructure needs and his plan to move legislation through Congress to set Transportation and Infrastructure priorities.
March 6, 2008
Rep. Mica was the keynote speaker for a National Transportation Conference. Rep. Mica discussed his work as the Republican Leader on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He also addressed developing federal priorities, financing and speeding up the process of completing federal transportation and infrastructure projects.
(Convention)
March 4, 2008
Rep. Mica hosted the second in a series of tele-townhall meetings with the residents of St. Johns County. For information on upcoming tele-townhall meetings, please reference the link below.
(Form)
February 26, 2008
Rep. Mica hosted the first in a series of tele-townhall meetings with the residents of St. Johns County. For information on upcoming tele-townhall meetings, please reference the link below.
(Form)
February 11, 2008
Rep. Mica hosted an Agricultural Forum in Pierson. The purpose of the forum was to assess some of the current problems and future opportunities facing the 7th District's agriculture industry.
(Photos) (Press)
February 5, 2008
Rep. Mica was invited to visit with students at Rock Lake Middle School in Longwood. He had the opportunity to visit with Ms. Lucille Case, and her students, who recently completed a project on renewable energy resources. Mica viewed the students’ projects and spoke to the class about use of renewable energies and resource utilization in Florida. (Photos)
February 4, 2008
Mica met with many of the St. Johns County Officials at the Administration Building in St. Augustine. He met individually with Commissioner Tom Manuel, Chairman of the St. Johns County Council; Mr. Dennis Hollingsworth, St. Johns County Tax Collector; Ms. Sharon Outland, St. Johns County Property Appraiser; Ms. Cheryl Strickland, St. Johns County Clerk of Courts; and Ms. Penny Hallyburton, St. Johns County Supervisor of Elections.
A meeting was organized with Tom Turnage, President of the South Ponte Vedra-Vilano Beach Restoration Asociation, and Linda Chambliss, Member of the Association. Mica wanted an update on the beach erosion problem in Vilano and South Ponte Vedra and also to further lend his support towards resolving this serious problem. Many residents on the beach side of A1A are expieriencing significant problems with their homes literally "falling into the ocean." Furthermore, A1A itself could potentially fall victim to the erosion leaveing many residents stranded in the event of an evacuation.
January 30, 2008
Rep. Mica attended a meeting at DeBary City Hall regarding plans for the restoration of the DeBary Creek Bayou. Currently, there is a buildup of hiacins in the creek and many feel the creek needs to be dredged. The DeBary Creek Bayou is adjacent to Lake Monroe and has been encroached upon by I-4 development and other sources of pollution throughout the years. Attendees included representatives from the Florida Department of Transportation, St. Johns River Water Management District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, DeBary City Officials, Volusia County Officials and several residents located near the area of concern. Mica hopes an agreement can be reached to resolve the issue. (Photos / Press)
January 28, 2008
Congressman Mica visited with students from the Park Maitland School on the Capitol steps. Mica spoke briefly about significant historic facts surrounding the Capitol and was able to pose for a photograph with the group.
Mica attended the State of the Union Address given by President George W. Bush on the House Floor of the United States Capitol.
January 23, 2008
Mica was able to spend time with students from the Putnam County School District and escorted them through the Capitol to take a photograph in the Grand Rotunda. He provided each student with a pocket constitution and a commemorative coin.
January 22, 2008
Rep. Mica had the opportunity to meet and greet Sebastian Middle School from St. Augustine on the East Steps of the Capitol building for a photograph. In attendance were approximately 70 students who Mica was honored to meet.
January 18-20, 2008
At the invitation of the White House's Office of National Drug Control Policy Director John Walters, Rep. Mica and a Congressional Delegation traveled to Colombia in order to obtain a first hand account of the ongoing drug interdiction programs in our nation's war on drugs. While in Colombia the delegation met with Colombian President, Alvaro Uribe, members of his Cabinet and additional national and local leaders to discuss the successes and future of Plan Colombia, of which Rep. Mica was an original co-author.
During the Congressional Delegation trip, Rep. Mica visited the cities of Bogata and Medellin. Information gathered on this recent trip will be beneficial as Congress reevaluates current drug control policies and continues efforts to protect Americans from illegal drugs and related violence.
January 15, 2008
Second session of the 110th Congress begins.
January 14 th, 2008
A meeting was organized with the Central Florida Home Builders to discuss the current situation with the downfall of the housing market on all levels. Mica wanted to discuss their perspective and outlook on the housing market and provide his support for their efforts to help rejuvenate the industry.
January 11 th, 2008
Mica traveled to Miami International Airport and joined Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (FL25) for a tour of the air traffic control tower with local officials from Miami Airport, NATCA and FAA. In the aviation industry, staffing levels in control towers around the country is an issue of concern and Mica is continuing to bring all parties to the table to find an acceptable resolution.
Reps. Mica and Diaz-Balart along with local and state officials presented mock check to Miami-Dade County as part during an anti-congestion ceremony. Federal dollars ($65 million) were appropriated to address the growing problem of congestion on I-95 through the greater Miami area.
January 10, 2008
Rep. Mica addressed the Seminole County Chamber of Commerce. Topics included issues such as crime, transportation, and the local and national economies.
Rep. Mica joined the Business Professional Women organization in presenting over 200 donated books to the Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd grades of Pierson Elementary School. (Photos)
Rep. Mica met with officials form the DeLand Museum of Art to discuss the progress on current museum renovations.
December 17 th, 2007
A meeting was organized between NATCA and the FAA to discuss air traffic controllers staffing levels at the Orlando International Airport. The controllers’ union has raised concerns about the number of controllers at Orlando as well as overtime and fatigue issues. Mr. Mica is seeking to bring FAA and the controllers’ union together to find out how FAA intends to address these concerns and work with the parties to find a resolution. (FL).
December 14 th, 2007
Rep. Mica was the opening speaker at the Florida Habitat for Humanity Conference in Kissimmee. He congratulated board members and volunteers for their continued efforts to assist those in need of affordable housing on behalf of Florida. Over the past five years, the Florida Habitat for Humanity has built more houses than any other state in the country (FL).
December 10 th, 2007
Mica met with “Orlando Kids on Stage” at our nation’s Capitol. Led by Mr. Tim Haines, recipient of the 2006 President Scholar Award in Arts, students from throughout Central Florida performed at the White House during the holiday season. Mica addressed the students on the steps of the Capitol and led them on a tour of the Capitol (DC).
December 3 rd, 2007
Rep. Mica gave the keynote address at the St. Johns County Board of Realtors 2007 Annual Holiday Breakfast. Mica addressed the current situation with the housing/mortgage industry at the local, state and national levels. He also provided the attendees with his position on the current mortgage and real estate market downturn (FL).
The Putnam County Emergency Operations Center dedication ceremony was keynoted by Rep. Mica. This new state-of-the-art facility will serve as the headquarters for most of Putnam County’s civil service offices. Rep. Mica helped secure federal dollars for this facility. The project was initiated by the Putnam County Commission and also supported with state and federal contributions and will serve as the local emergency coordination center during future disasters (FL).
November 27 th, 2007
Rep. Mica and Rep. Lynn Westmoreland hosted a meeting with FAA, TSA and airport officials at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to discuss various issues including the Atlanta Air Route Traffic Control Center structural deficiencies. Mica and Westmoreland also reviewed checkpoint screening and airport funding priorities at one of our nation’s busiest airports (GA).
Mica traveled to Rep. Thelma Drakes’ district (VA02) for an inspection of major transportation and port expansion projects and facilities of the Port of Virginia. Reps. Mica and Drake were briefed on and inspected the new Maersk facility, the eastward expansion of Craney Island, and a new rail project that will connect Craney Island to the Heartland Corridor, as well as the U.S. Coast Guard base in Portsmouth (VA).
November 26 th, 2007
Mica traveled to Rep. Michael Burgess’ district in Ft. Worth, TX to attend the Fifth Annual Texas 26 th Congressional District Transportation Summit. Mica was the keynote speaker at the summit where he discussed critical national transportation issues and met with state and local officials and industry experts (TX).
November 21 st, 2007
The Casselberry Rotary hosted Mica at their monthly meeting this morning. Mica provided the club with a Washington Update and Various Transportation and Infrastructure issues (FL).
November 20 th, 2007
Rep. Mica held a meeting with DeBary city officials, Volusia County officials, representatives from the Corps of Engineers and environmental experts to discuss the possibility of restoring the DeBary Creek. Mica brought all the parties together during a roundtable meeting at DeBary City Hall. All parties involved discussed the need to restore the creek and options for the execution and funding of the project (FL).
Mica hosted a dinner with the Pierson Town Council in Astor, FL. During the dinner, Pierson officials expressed their concerns with the Agriculture industry in the community and their desire to receive federal assistance. The officials discussed possible ways to improve the farming industry in their community which is a major economic factor (FL).
November 19 th, 2007
A beach erosion summit was held in Ponte Vedra Beach this morning to discuss the very serious beach erosion problem affecting many residents along A1A. Mr. Mica, along with city and county officials, representatives from the Corps of Engineers and various other environmental agencies, discussed ways to solve the beach erosion problem including monetary and structural solutions. Mica has expressed his continued commitment to resolving this issue. A1A is the only evacuation route for many residents and if something is not done soon this could present a potentially catastrophic problem in the event of another major storm (FL).
November 13 th, 2007
Rep. Mica addressed Mr. Rodriguez’s junior and senior level class at Seminole High School. Mica spoke about his journey to Congress, the importance of education and what his daily schedule typically consists of. Rep. Mica addresses students both in Washington and Florida to provide them with background about Congress and the legislative process (FL).
November 12 th, 2007
A veteran recognition ceremony was held at John Knox Village in Orange City, FL to honor those have served and are currently serving our country at home and abroad. Mica was able to attend and share with community leaders and other citizens the important role of our veterans and military. He recognized those, past and present, serving in the United States military on Veteran’s Day (FL).
Mica met with Mr. and Mrs. Charles and Sherri Quinn, parents of the late Cpl. Adam Quinn of DeLand. While serving his country in Afghanistan, Cpl. Quinn was fatally wounded. Prior to joining the Army, Cpl. Quinn graduated from DeLand High School in DeLand, Florida where he was a leader in the Junior ROTC program. He also attended the First United Method Church in DeLand with his family. Adam served with great distinction—the recipient of the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart and numerous other awards and citations . Mica presented the family with a flag that was flown over the United States Capitol in honor of Cpl. Quinn (FL).
November 11 th, 2007
In St. Johns County, the American Legion Post 194 met today to honor Mr. William Chase, one of the last of the generation known as the “Buffalo Soldiers”, African American servicemen from World War II. Mica was honored to have met Mr. Chase and welcomed the opportunity to recognize him on this special day (FL).
Mica attended the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum Veteran’s Celebration Ceremony where Mr. William Chase was again honored for his service to our nation. Mica had an opportunity to share with those in attendance his gratitude for those men and women who have put themselves in harms way for the greater good of the United States (FL).
November 10 th, 2007
Mica attended the Marine Corps League Ball in Palm Coast, FL. The event marked the 232 nd Anniversary of the United States Marine Corps. Mica had an opportunity to meet with local veterans and community leaders as part of the weekend long Veterans Day celebration (FL).
November 9 th, 2007
While recovering at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Pfc. Greg Hutchinson, Jr. was awarded the Purple Heart Medal from injuries sustained while serving in Iraq. At the family’s request, Rep. Mica personally awarded Pfc. Hutchinson the Purple Heart at Walter Reed Hospital. Pfc. Hutchinson was injured when his humvee was hit by an IED in Iraq. He is expected to make a full recovery and Mica was honored to meet Pfc. Hutchinson and present him with the distinguished service award (DC).
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