May 18, 2009

“Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) wants to thank Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp as chair of Space Florida for facilitating the designation of Frank DiBello as interim executive director of the state’s aerospace development organization. Frank is an outstanding individual with a deep and expansive understanding of space issues through his lifelong work in the industry.

This Space Florida appointment undoubtedly signals to the aerospace industry that this administration understands how significant Cape Canaveral and the future of Florida-based space flight are to the future economic prosperity of our state. Recently, Sen. Bill Nelson suggested conducting a national search to find a permanent executive director of the organization, however today’s key appointment clearly shows such a search could not produce a more fit or experienced candidate than Mr. DiBello.”