New leader takes on Space Florida challenges | OrlandoSentinel.com

By Robert Block, Orlando Sentinel, Posted 01/15/10

Link: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/space/os-space-florida-future-20100114,0,...

"Frank DiBello, the head of Space Florida, "is trying to buck the trend" of making promises but not delivering them. "Since taking over the troubled state aerospace-development agency in September, DiBello has been scrambling to get money and plans in place to soften the double blow of 7,000 shuttle-related layoffs and a minimum five-year gap before NASA resumes human spaceflight."  DiBello "canceled or phased out nearly $3 million worth of projects and contracts he considered either wasteful or impractical" while also trying to draw business to the region. Furthermore, DiBello "sees opportunity" with commercial space companies, although he is working to diversify the local industry. According to the article, "Although he has yet to score any deals, his efforts have won widespread praise," including from Rep. Suzanne Kosmas and Mark Nappi, head of the United Space Alliance."  Thanks to AIAA Daily Launch.