SEPTEMBER 26, 2005

ISSUE 1082

 

BRONSON URGES TERRORISM VIGILANCE

In a letter written to FFVA Members Monday (September 19), Florida Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson reminded growers and other citizens that hurricane relief efforts have stretched Homeland Security resources thin, resulting in a situation that could provide opportunities for potential terrorists.

 

“As incomprehensible as it may seem, there are adversaries of this great country who may be tempted to strike our nation when our strength is focused on responding to this unprecedented tragedy,” Bronson’s letter said.

 

“Although the Homeland Security Advisory System remains at Condition Yellow (Elevated), and while there is no information indicating Florida is a target of any specific threat, I am asking all citizens of this state to maintain a high level of vigilance,” he continued.

 

Bronson urged Floridians to be be mindful of the following points:
- Be aware of unfamiliar persons in your neighborhoods, places of business, schools, farms, and other important places.
- Be aware of suspicious persons who give undue attention (including questioning, videotaping, or note taking) to fences, security plans, building plans, entrances, etc.
- Be aware of persons unfamiliar to you who attempt to buy fertilizers, pesticides, diesel fuel, or other potentially dangerous substances in large quantities.

 

The full text of Commissioner Bronson’s letter has been posted in the Resource Library section at www.ffva.com.