By Michael Peltier
Naples Daily News
05/04/08

TALLAHASSEE — Southwest Florida’s senior delegate went out with a bang last week as legislation extending a pair of land-buying programs and a sweeping energy package were sent to the governor for his signature.

Eight years after passing the Everglades Restoration Act, Sen. Burt Saunders, R-Naples, watched as colleagues unanimously approved a measure that would extend the landmark program for another 10 years and add up to $2 billion to efforts to restore portions of the region.

The proposal was approved shortly after Saunders bid farewell to the Senate where he has served for the past 10 years. Like other term-limited members, Saunders, who’s now running for Congress, addressed the chamber after colleagues and friends reminisced and bid him adieu.

Senate President Ken Pruitt said the moderate Republican left his mark on a wide range of issues from the environment to health care. Pruitt said Saunders was also a lawmaker who let his actions speak for themselves.

“Year after year he quietly and gently goes about his work without a single thought of taking credit for himself,” Pruitt told members. “Don’t take that quiet demeanor for inaction. Sen. Saunders has been one of our most accomplished members of this Senate.”

On a personal note, longtime friend Sen. Lisa Carlton said he’d be remembered for his devotion to his family. With a young family of her own, Carlton and Saunders became good friends, swapping parenting stories and family tales. Saunders, who routinely takes his kids to school when he’s not in Tallahassee, is a model parent, Carlton said.

“He is the most involved father that I think I have spoken to,” Carlton said.

Speaking to his colleagues, Saunders credited his staff including top aide Randi Rosete for keeping him on track and taking care of constituents. He also thanked legislative leaders for giving him opportunities. Then, in typical quick order, he said goodbye.

“The last 10 years have gone by in a flash,” Saunders told members.

“There is truth to the saying that time flies when you’re having fun. For me it’s been a great adventure and a lot of fun.”
 

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