Richardson, Ausley honored
during legislative breakfast
By Sandi Beare – Herald Correspondent

Gadsden’s Board of County Commissioners hosted its annual Legislative Appreciation Breakfast at Tri Eagle Sales in Midway last Thursday morning. It also used the breakfast as a way to honor two legislators who have worked tirelessly to get much-needed funding for infrastructure projects for the county and several municipalities, Representatives Curtis Richardson and Loranne Ausley. Both are being term-limited out of the Florida House of Representatives after eight years of service.
“We look at them as icons for Gadsden County,” said county manager Marlon Brown. Richardson’s focus has been on education and helping those who can’t help themselves, said Brown. “Loranne has been a champion for children’s issues. These two will be sorely missed for their dedication,” said Brown.
“In the last four years, Gadsden County has been the most successful county in the state because of the efforts of Curtis Richardson and Loranne Ausley,” said county chairman Ed Dixon. “Thank you, thank you, thank you.”
Havana’s town manager, Howard McKinnon said of the two legislators, “We appreciate all they’ve done for us. Curtis Richardson has a heart for Gadsden County. He understands the needs of our people. Loranne Ausley’s trademark is her work for children.”
“Curtis Richardson is one of the most if not the most eloquent of our legislators,” said Gadsden’s lobbyist, Chris Doolin. “He cares about people – their health, welfare and safety. He has shoes so big they will never be filled,” said Doolin. “Loranne Ausley has a great capacity for people and a tenacity and gentleness for issues. She has the ability to cross party lines,” said Doolin.
State senator Al Lawson, who also represents Gadsden, said of Richardson,” Thank you for working so diligently for Gadsden County. You’ve done a yeoman’s job.” When Richardson took the floor, he was visibly moved by the tribute. He thanked county officials for their special recognition of both Richardson and Loranne Ausley who was unable to attend. “This is one of the few times you’ll find me almost speechless,” said Richardson, who praised his staff, and gave thanks to his wife, Nina Ashenafi Richardson, an attorney. “She has delayed her ambition of pursuing becoming a judge. I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish anything without her,” he said. “Now it’s her turn,” said Richardson of his wife. Curtis Richardson also laid praise at Senator Al Lawson’s doorstep. “He is one of the most respected legislators,” he said of the Gadsden County native. “Gadsden has adopted me and I feel as much at home as I do in Leon. It was because of Gadsden’s overwhelming support that I won the 2000 election,” said Richardson.
Lawson said he’d miss Richardson “probably more than anyone. He’s a stellar performer.” Lawson also praised Ausley’s contributions.
Representatives from Senators Bill Nelson and Mel Martinez, and Congressman Allen Boyd’s office also spoke at the breakfast.