The shootout and manhunt in Boston has captured the attention of the nation and the world, even as many people are trying to finish their workweek.
Friday in Tallahassee, state business went on as usual. Lawmakers on the House Appropriations Committee met to debate the issue of expanding health insurance to uninsured Floridians.
But many around the Capitol kept an eye on the unfolding tragedy in Boston, including Rep. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey.
He said he was very impressed with the efforts of law enforcement to track down the bombing suspects so quickly.
The technology, the great efforts by law enforcement, but even in the community of Boston and throughout the state of Massachusetts," said Fasano, "coming together and tracking down these evil people -- it shows you that we live in the greatest country in the world.
I know that for many people, they have concerns about Big Brother watching, them but when you have events like this, the Boston Marathon, to have cameras in place. The technology we have today to be able to go after those who commit crimes and, again, Im a big believer that if you have nothing to hide that you shouldnt have to worry about hiding anything.
Florida House Speaker Will Weatherford, R-Wesley Chapel, called the events in Boston another American tragedy.He said it shows terrorism still plagues the country and we must continue to look for ways to protect ourselves and our children.
Said Weatherford, Its another American tragedy. Its another example that terrorism has not gone away. There are people, young and old, people from this country, from other countries, that have bad thoughts and deeds and are a danger to society and we should continue to look for ways to protect our citizens, look for ways to protect our children and our kids. Its just an unforeseeable tragedy and our thoughts and prayers here in the state of Florida go out to our friends in Boston.
Dave Heller is a Tallahassee freelance reporter/videeographer.
