This is great advice from Senator Lawson: Thank you for expressing your concerns about the proposed closing of the Florida State Library and Archives by Governor Jeb Bush. I share your concerns about the proposal and will fight hard to prevent its closing. I believe the State Library is a vital part of Florida's History and should be an equally significant part of our state's future. The Appropriations Sub-Committee on General Government will be hearing public testimony regarding all general government issues which includes funding for the State Library. Testimony will be heard Thursday 2/13/03 9am - noon and Friday 2/14/03 9am -5pm. If you would like to testify or if you know someone who does send your name, phone, address, group representing, and date you would like to testify to [email protected] by 5pm Tuesday 2/11/03. It is best to arrive at these scheduled meetings as close to the beginning as possible. They do not always last the duration of the allotted time nor will you know in advance the order in which a speaker will be called upon. This is a wonderful opportunity for citizens to express to legislators how the proposed budget cuts will directly affect them. Pam Cooper FGS/FSGS 2003 Conference Co-Chair < http://www.fgs.org > President, Florida State Genealogical Society < http://www.rootsweb com/~flsgs/ > Chair, Librarians Serving Genealogists < http://www.cas.usf edu/lis/genealib/ > P. O. Box 7066 Vero Beach, FL 32961-7066