NOTES NEGATIVE COMMENTS OF SPORTSWRITER TONY KORNHEISER - "JACKSONVILLE HAS ALWAYS BEEN INVOLVED IN CONFLICTS, APPROPRIATE ENOUGH FOR A SUPER BOWL HOST"

Washington, Feb 1, 2005 - Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-6th) went to the House floor today to honor the City of Jacksonville and to take exception to the comments of sportswriter Tony Kornheiser, who disparaged Jacksonville as the host of Super Bowl XXXIX in an article titled What's That Smell? Jacksonville. In his statement, Stearns recognized the importance of Jacksonville in the development of the nation.

Stearns noted the importance of Jacksonville in a number of conflicts --"Because of its strategic Atlantic Ocean port location, Jacksonville has always been involved in conflicts, appropriate enough for a Super Bowl host. Wars with Spain, France, the Revolutionary War, the Seminole Indian Wars, and the Civil War, all touched Jacksonville. Twenty-five World War I steamers were launched from Jacksonville ports. In 1942, German spies infiltrated the area, but luckily were captured before blowing up Florida's essential railroad lines. Finally, during the 1991 Persian Gulf War, what was the busiest military port in the country? You guessed it: Jacksonville moved more supplies and personnel than any other American port."

Concluded Stearns, "I am proud to represent part of this historic, important city, and I welcome Mr. Kornheiser and other guests this weekend."