As we approach the holiday season, we have learned that our recent trade mission to Brazil has generated even more good news for Florida’s economy. As a result of the mission, we have achieved nearly $300 million in business for Florida companies, including a $182-million facility built in Jacksonville that will turn solid waste into energy. Such partnerships strengthen Florida’s economy and help us lead the way in preserving our natural beauty and our environment. Thursday I was able to join Teddy Roosevelt IV of Lehman Brothers, a global finance institute, in addressing a group of experts on global climate change. I shared with them ways Florida is making progress in being more energy efficient, reducing greenhouse-gas emissions, and using more alternative energy uses such as solar and wind as well as alternative fuels such as ethanol. This week we kicked off the holiday season with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion. It was pleasure to see 85 foster children making tree ornaments, decorating gingerbread cookies and visiting with Santa Claus. We also celebrated Hanukkah with a menorah lighting ceremony. In order to celebrate in a climate friendly way, the Christmas tree is lit this year with low-energy lights. After the holidays, the tree will be recycled to create wood chips that will be available at no cost for area residents to use as mulch. I encourage you to consider ways you can celebrate this year that are climate friendly as well. May God bless each and every one of you and the great state of Florida. Thanks so much for listening.