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Small Business Endorses Mike Horner for House District 79
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Bill Herrle, Kristen Ploska
(850) 681-0416
Tallahassee, August 4, 2008 – The National Federation of Independent Business, Florida’s leading small-business advocacy association, today announced its endorsement of Mike Horner for House District 79, which consists of most of Osceola County and portions of Polk and Okeechobee counties.
“NFIB supports Mike Horner because he has demonstrated a strong commitment to reigning in government spending and lowering taxes,” NFIB/Florida Executive Director Bill Herrle said. “His belief in the importance of free enterprise will make him a strong ally for small business in the House.”
Horner currently serves as the President of the Kissimmee/Osceola Chamber of Commerce, a post he has held for over 10 years. One of his major focuses is creating a smaller and more accountable government, one of the same principles of NFIB. He believes that a smaller government means less taxation, giving families and businesses a greater opportunity to thrive.
"I am honored to earn NFIB’s endorsement as the best candidate for State Representative for District 79,” Horner said. “Small businesses are the backbone of our community and our economy and I am committed to promoting policies that will strengthen them."
NFIB’s endorsement is important for Horner. Small-business owners and their employees vote in high numbers and are known for actively recruiting friends, family members and acquaintances to go to the polls, increasing the likelihood that a pro-small business candidate will be elected.
NFIB’s political support is based on the candidate’s position and record on small-business issues. The endorsement comes from the NFIB/Florida SAFE (Save America’s Free Enterprise) Trust, the political action committee for NFIB/Florida’s membership. Horner’s endorsement brings the considerable grassroots support of Florida’s small-business owners to her campaign.
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Police Benevolent Association Endorses Mike Horner
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kissimmee, FL, July 21, 2008 – Today, Mike Horner announced the endorsements of the Florida and Central Florida Police Benevolent Associations for his candidacy for the Florida House District 79. “Public safety is a top priority for Mike Horner, he truly understands the importance of Law Enforcement,” stated John Park, President of the Central Florida PBA. “We urge voters interested in less crime and safer streets to support Mike Horner’s campaign for the State House.”
“Mike Horner’s is the type of leader we need in the Florida legislature,” said Florida PBA Executive Director David Murrell. “Mike will bring a no-nonsense tough on crime approach to state government.”
The PBA works to enhance and protect the best interests of the law enforcement community while promoting professionalism which establishes a “positive mirror effect” on the community. The Central Florida PBA is a local chapter of the Florida PBA which represents over 34,000 law enforcement officers and their families throughout Florida.
The PBA endorsement is one of the most difficult endorsements for a candidate to earn and one of the most highly sought after because of the strength and prestige associated with it.
“I am grateful for the support of the brave men and women in law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe” said Horner said of this important endorsement. “Public safety is a fundamental responsibility of government and I will work hard to ensure they have the tools they need to be successful.”
To learn more about the Mike Horner Campaign visit his campaign website at www.GoHorner.com .
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Firefighters Endorse Mike Horner for State Representatives District 79
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kissimmee FL, Monday June 30 – Today, The Florida Professional Firefighters and the Osceola County, Kissimmee and St. Cloud Professional Firefighters proudly announce our endorsement of Mike Horner, candidate for the Florida House of Representatives, District 79. “Mike Horner understands the importance of public safety” said Todd Smith President of the Osceola County Firefighters Local 3284 “We encourage anyone who values strong emergency services to join us in supporting Mike’s candidacy.”
“Mike is an outstanding leader who truly cares about the safety of Florida’s citizens”, stated Bob Saunders 3rd District Vice-President for the Central Florida Region for the Florida Professional Firefighters, “The Firefighters will be working hard to ensure Mike is elected to the House.”
The Florida Professional Firefighters are dedicated to advancing legislative policy that improves public safety for the citizens of Florida. We are an advocate in Florida's State Capitol, Counties, Cities and Special Districts for Firefighters, Paramedics and the Fire/Rescue services as a whole. We Inform and educate our members in order to place them on a higher plane of professionalism. The FPF has over 22,500 members across the state and over 500 members in Osceola County.
Horner said of this important endorsement, “I am honored that the brave men and women who literally risk their lives to protect our families and property every day have endorsed my campaign. I am humbled to have the support of these heroes.”
To learn more about the Florida Professional Firefighters visit www.FPFP.org . To learn more about the Mike Horner Campaign visit www.GoHorner.com.
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Attkisson Endorses Horner
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Representative Frank Attkisson Endorses Mike Horner
for State Representative, District 79
Kissimmee, FL, June 2, 2008 – Today, Mike Horner announced the endorsement of his candidacy by the incumbent for District 79, Representative Frank Attkisson. “Mike is a conservative leader who understands the needs of the citizens of this district. I expect great things from Mike and I look forward to helping him be successful in his race for the House,” said Representative Attkisson.
"After the recent legislative session I came back and saw that Mike Horner has done the hard work of preparing himself to serve in Tallahassee. I endorsed Mike within a week of my return. I know that he will be an articulate voice for the citizens of District 79 in the Florida House," stated Attkission.
After serving in numerous leadership positions during the past eight years including Chairman of the Government Efficiency and Accountability Council last session, Representative Attkisson is leaving office due to term limits.
Horner said of his most recent endorsement, “I am honored to have the endorsement of such a respected legislator and great community leader. It has been a privilege to work with Frank over the eight years that he has served in the House and as Mayor of Kissimmee before that. If elected, I know I have big shoes to fill.”
Mike is running on a platform of less government, stronger families, lower taxes and greater personal freedom. He is a fifth generation Floridian and resident of Osceola County. He is married to Abby and they have one son, Lawson. Mike has been the President of the Kissimmee/Osceola County Chamber of Commerce since 1997. He serves as a volunteer for numerous local organizations including Community Vision, Good Samaritan Village, Osceola Education Foundation, Osceola Regional Medical Center, Community Health Improvement Council, and the Osceola Republican Executive Committee. Mike served in the Florida National Guard from 1993-1997 and attends Cornerstone Church in St. Cloud. He earned degrees from the University of Florida and the University of Central Florida.
To learn more about the Mike Horner Campaign visit www.GoHorner.com or contact Mike at 407.709.3087 or via email at Mike@GoHorner.com
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Republicans Endorse Mike Horner for HD 79
For Immediate Release
Contact: Katie Gordon (850) 339-7087
May 17, 2008
Republicans Endorse Mike Horner for HD 79
Tallahassee–Florida House Republicans and Republican Party of Florida Chairman Jim Greer today announced their endorsement of Osceola Chamber President and civic leader Mike Horner for State Representative, House District 79.
“I am pleased to endorse Mike Horner’s run for House District 79 to represent the citizens of Osceola, Polk and Okeechobee counties, said Chairman Jim Greer. “Mike has worked hard to advance Republican principles throughout his professional and community service career and he will continue to do so as a State Representative. I look forward to campaigning for Mike Horner and ensuring that we win this race in November.”
“Endorsing Mike Horner for State Representative is one of the easiest decisions I will make as Chairman of house campaigns,” said Speaker Designate Ray Sansom (R-Destin). “Mike is a dedicated civic leader and a strong supporter of his community. His energy and willingness to work harder than anyone else to complete a job makes him a tough and ready candidate for House District 79.”
“As we look forward to major issues affecting Florida, the economic recovery and stability of our great state will be a big responsibility and Mike Horner has the experience needed to deal with these issues and assist in turning the economy around,” continued Sansom. “Mike’s talents and leadership at the helm of the Chamber of Commerce also make him a good choice for the residents of House District 79 because he already knows how to work with others to bring about positive results.”
“Having known Mike Horner personally for over 20 years it is with great pride that I fully endorse his candidacy for House District 79”, said State Representative Dean Cannon. “Mike will work tirelessly for our community in Tallahassee just like he does now at home as President of the Chamber and a volunteer for numerous local organizations like the Good Samaritan Village. People throughout the area know that Mike really cares about them and their issues, he will make a fine State Representative and I look forward to working side-by-side with him when he wins this November.”
Mike Horner is a fifth generation Floridian and resident of Osceola County. He is married to Abby and the father of a son, Lawson. Mike has been the President of the Osceola Chamber of Commerce since 1997. Mike serves as a volunteer for several local organizations; Community Vision, Good Samaritan Village, Osceola Education Foundation, Osceola Regional Medical Center, Community Health Improvement Council, and the Osceola Republican Executive Committee. He served in the Florida National Guard from 1993-1997 and attends Cornerstone Church in St. Cloud. He earned degrees from the University of Florida and the University of Central Florida. For more information on Mike Horner, please visit his website: GoHorner.com or call, (407)709-3087.
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Election Day Petition Gathering
Thanks to hardworking volunteers working the polls during the recent Presidential Preference Primary the Horner Campaign turned in the petitions required to put Mike on the Ballot. “This campaign is all about the grass roots and we have the best team around” stated a grateful Horner when the collections were completed. |
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April 2004 - Horner Continues to Lead the Pack in Fundraising
Another strong quarter of fundraising highlights the growing support for Mike Horner.
Through the end of March, the Horner campaign reported generating more than $150,000 in campaign contributions - more than twice that of his closest competitor (go to http://election.dos.state.fl.us/cand/index.asp for details). Thanks to a series of successful events throughout the district, over 450 individuals and companies have donated to the campaign.
The following events are planned for this quarter:
When: April 25, 4:00 - 7:00 pm
Where: Claude and Honey Jean Smoak's Turkey Roost Ranch in Clermont
When: May 20, 5:30-7 pm
Where: Signature’s By The Lake, 220A E. Monument Avenue, Kissimmee
When: Wednesday, May 26, 5:30 – 7:30 pm
Where: Bellalago Amenity Complex Club House, 1220 Lago Vista Ct, Poinciana
When: Thursday, June 17, 5:30 – 7:00
Where: Stoneybrook West Club House, 15501 Towne Commons Blvd., Winter Garden
To attend any of these functions please call (407) 933-0072 or email rsvp@gohorner.com
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February 2004 - Veterans Name Horner Citizen of the Year
The Osceola County Veterans Council recognized Mike Horner as the 2004 Citizen of the Year. The presentation was made at the Veterans Council 3rd Annual Veterans Dinner and Award Ceremony February 28, 2004. “When the Veterans call, Mike is always ready to help” said David Conboy, President of the Veterans Council. “I guess it comes from his service in the National Guard. Mike understands the value of Veterans!”
“We owe a debt we can never fully repay to those who have fought, suffered and died to keep our nation free,” stated Horner at the Award Ceremony. “This is an award I will always treasure. You can count on me to continue to support our Veterans.”
The Citizen of the Year Award is nominated by the Veterans Council Members and based upon outstanding volunteer service to Veterans and the community, within the parameters of the Osceola County Veterans Council Mission.
Support for the United States military is an important value for Mike and his family. Mike enlisted in the Florida National Guard as an infantry soldier in the 2/124th in Orlando. After Officer Candidate School, Mike served as a Platoon Leader in the 863rd Supply Company at Camp Blanding.
Mike’s father, Andrew, was a Vietnam era naval aviator who served as a Hurricane Hunter in Florida. He retired as a commander in the reserves after 22 years of service.
Mike’s grandfather, Jack, was a WWII Pacific Theater combat veteran who retired from the Navy with 20 years of service.
If you would like to get involved with the Mike Horner Campaign, you can email mike@gohorner.com or call (407) 933-0072. Contributions made payable to the “Mike Horner Campaign” can be sent to 2662 Emerald Lake Court, Kissimmee, FL 34744.
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Firefighters Endorse Horner
The Osceola County Professional Firefighters Association has endorsed Republican Mike Horner for State House District 41.
This is a bold move by the Firefighters who typically wait until after qualifying to make an endorsement. “We believe so strongly in Mike’s campaign that we wanted to show our support early” said Todd Smith, President of the Osceola County Professional Firefighters Association. “Mike’s strong commitment to public safety convinced us that we need his leadership in Tallahassee.”
“I am humbled that the heroes who put their lives on the line every day to protect us would put their faith in me” stated Horner at the Firefighters monthly meeting.
The Firefighters endorsement continues the trend of early support from key groups. For detailed information on all of the individuals and groups who have contributed to the Horner Campaign go to http://election.dos.state.fl.us/cand/index.asp.
If you would like to get involved with the Mike Horner Campaign, you can email mike@gohorner.com or call (407) 933-0072. Contributions can be sent to 2662 Emerald Lake Court, Kissimmee, FL 34744.
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January 2004 - Horner Continues Strong Showing
Mike Horner’s campaign for State House District 41 had a strong quarter in fundraising and “Friendraising.”
To date over 300 volunteers have signed up to support Mike’s campaign. In addition, the campaign has generated over $130,000 making it one of the strongest fundraising efforts of any House campaign in the state, far outpacing other candidates for District 41 (for detailed information go to http://election.dos.state.fl.us/cand/index.asp ). Mike’s track record of community leadership and his positive message have helped propel the Republican’s impressive campaign.
The campaign is planning several events in the next few weeks including:
Southwest Orange, Morton’s Steakhouse, Jan 29, 5:30-7:30 pm
South Lake County, home of Scott Blankenship, Feb 5, 5:30-7:30 pm
Kissimmee, home of Tom Tompkins, March 5, 6:00-8:00 pm
If you would like to attend any of these events or would like to get involved with the Mike Horner Campaign you can email mike@gohorner.com or call (407) 933-0072. Contributions can be sent to 2662 Emerald Lake Court, Kissimmee, FL 34744.
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November 2003 - The Horner Campaign Continues To Excel
Mike Horner, who is running to succeed Representative Randy Johnson in State House District 41, continues to exceed expectations.
Horner’s message of a smaller more accountable state government and demonstrated community leadership has attracted a great deal of support. The Republican generated an astounding $130,000 dollars in last reporting period (for detailed information go to http://election.dos.state.fl.us/cand/index.asp ) and thus far fundraising for the current quarter is going well.
In addition to success with fundraising Horner has been able to marshal a strong grass roots support network throughout the district. Over 300 individuals have signed up to volunteer for the campaign. Already well known in Osceola County, Mike has been aggressively networking in Orange and Lake Counties.
The “Lake County Friends of Mike Horner” recently held an event for Mike that attracted a large crowd with several current and former Lake County officials. Hosts for the event included State Representative Hugh Gibson, Lake County Commission Chairman Welton Cadwell, Lake County Tax Collector Bob McKee, Lake County School Board member Becky Elswick, Clermont City Council member Keith Mullins and community leaders Shannon Elswick and Ray Gilley.
Mike has some events in Orange County coming up before the end of the year - A fundraiser with key business leaders in Southwest Orange County and a reception hosted by Tupperware at their international headquarters.
If you would like to get involved with the Mike Horner Campaign you can email mike@gohorner.com or call (407) 933-0072. Contributions can be sent to 2662 Emerald Lake Court, Kissimmee, FL 34744.
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October 2003 - Horner Campaign Reports Over $110,000
The Horner Campaign continues to build an impressive war chest. Thanks to the generous support of hundreds of contributors the campaign was able to generate an astounding total of 116,000 in contributions and loans. This total puts Mike squarely ahead of the competition (go to http://election.dos.state.fl.us/cand/index.asp for details).
In addition to success at fundraising the Campaign has assembled a list of over 250 volunteers, as well as an for aggressive event schedule planned for the next quarter.
Upcoming Events
WHAT: Florida Chamber of Commerce Fundraiser
WHEN: Tuesday, October 21, 5:30-7:00 p.m.
WHERE: Clydes and Costello’s, Tallahassee
WHAT: Greenberg Traurig Fundraiser
WHEN: Wednesday, October 29, 2003, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
WHERE: Greenberg Traurig Law Offices, Orlando
WHAT: Lake County Friends of Mike Horner
WHEN: Thursday, November 6, 5:00-7:00 p.m.
WHERE: Lake Ridge Winery, Clermont
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September 2003 - Horner Campaign Kicks Off In High Gear
Hundreds gather in show of support for District 41 candidate
September 11, 2003 – Kissimmee, FL – Mike Horner’s bid for Florida House District 41 had an impressive start last night at the Hyatt Orlando in Kissimmee, with over 600 people in attendance to support his candidacy for the seat that represents portions of Orange, Lake and Osceola Counties. The fundraising event brought in just over $68,000, bringing his campaign total thus far to over $95,000.
“I am overwhelmed with the show of support here tonight,” said Horner. “I am humbled that so many friends, family and supporters took time out to help us launch this campaign.”
Horner addressed the enthusiastic crowd, defining his platform of less government, a strong focus on improving education and transportation, and the need to strengthen the local economy by diversifying jobs and attracting high wage, high value jobs to the area.
For photos from the event and more information on the Mike Horner for Florida House District 41 campaign, please visit www.gohorner.com
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August 2003 - Horner Launches Bid For House Seat
August 21, 2003, Kissimmee, FL –Mike Horner, President/CEO of the Kissimmee/Osceola County Chamber of Commerce, declared his candidacy today for the District 41 seat in the Florida House of Representatives.
Horner, a 35-year-old Republican, is a 5th generation Floridian raised in Sanford and currently residing in Kissimmee. In announcing plans to seek public office, Horner cited the need for elected officials to serve the public by working toward small, fair and accountable government. That philosophy, he said, has been a mainstay of his eight-year tenure as a chamber CEO.
“Serving as Chamber president has given me the tremendous opportunity to help people and business in Central Florida,” said Horner. “The experiences gained here, listening to both the business leadership and addressing the needs of the local citizens, have provided me the insights and experience that will enable me to effectively represent the constituents of District 41.”
As the Chamber president, Horner pioneered and spearheaded the Osceola Legislative Effort (OLE), a focused commitment of elected and business leaders to win support for local issues with Tallahassee lawmakers. In the past four years, this innovative lobbying effort helped net more than $60 million for local schools, roads and economic development. In 2002 the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals named Horner as Chamber Professional of the Year for his achievements with fiscal responsibility and membership development.
Beyond his lobbying efforts, returning to Tallahassee won’t be new to Horner. He was a legislative assistant in the Florida Senate from 1990-1994.
Horner’s military experience includes serving from 1993-1997 in the Florida National Guard as a Specialist in the 2/124th Infantry Company. After graduating Officer Candidate School he advanced to Platoon Leader in the 863rd Supply Company.
Horner holds a Bachelors Degree in Political Science from the University of Florida as well as a Masters in Public Administration from the University of Central Florida. He is active in the community, serving on various boards of directors, including Community Vision, the Celebration Foundation, Florida Hospital Kissimmee, Osceola County Education Foundation, Good Samaritan Retirement Village and the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals.
“Mike has been tremendously effective at uniting the local business community toward common goals,” said Osceola County Commissioner Ken Shipley. “With a leader like Mike, we know the issues important to Central Florida will be served by someone familiar with them and who has already invested a lot of time and energy toward finding solutions.”
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