On Thursday, Oct. 20, Florida Senate President-elect Don Gaetz of Niceville was recognized by the Florida Chamber of Commerce with its 2011 Distinguished Advocate Award.

Presenting the award on behalf of the Florida Chamber were Jackson County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, Art Kimbrough, and Gulf Power Company President and CEO, Mark Crosswhite.

The Distinguished Advocate Award recognizes legislators who champion key issues for businesses in Florida. The award honors legislators who advocate pro-job and pro-business measures in an effort to get Floridians back to work. 

"Senator Gaetz knows the needs of Northwest Florida and especially the business community. He makes sure our voice is heard and he displays great integrity and determination while supporting economic growth and development, which helps to keep our region competitive,” said Crosswhite.

Kimbrough commented, "Senator Gaetz has been a powerful voice of advocacy for the Panhandle region during difficult times. He kept our interests at the forefront and got things done when others could not."

Gulf Power Company is an investor-owned electric utility with all of its common stock owned by Atlanta-based Southern Company. Gulf Power serves more than 430,000 customers in eight counties throughout Northwest Florida. The company’s mission is to safely deliver affordable, reliable and environmentally responsible electric service to our customers while working to improve the communities we serve. Visit online at GulfPower.com or on the company’s Facebook page, “Gulf Power Company.”