April 23, 2010
-
FL GOP To Discuss Credit Card Abuse, Pt.2
Highlights of an extravagant lifestyle at taxpayer expense.The Miami Herald/St. Petersburg Times released details of Greer's credit card spending which included over $41,000 during the months of February and March 2008 on three trips to Washington D.C., Las Vegas and Beverly Hills, California. Some highlights of his card spending are:
• While visiting in Washington, Greer used the party's American Express credit card to pay over $500 for food and drink at the J. Paul's Saloon; $50.76 at the White House's gift shop; an $808 airline ticked for U.S. Senator George LeMieux; and paid $6,239 for a block of rooms at the Intercontinental Hotel.
• Greer wined and dined himself in Las Vegas where he used the party's credit card to pay for $545 at the Caesars Rao's Restaurant; $660 for theatre tickets; and $429 for limousine service to carry him about town. Party records do not show any donations coming from Nevada individuals or organizations during Greer's visit; however, there is evidence that indicates Crist hosted a fundraiser for his Senate campaign in Vegas during that time.
• During August 2009, Greer visited Beverly Hills, California where he spent $17,293.84 on a car rental and over $1,000 at Mr. Chow's Restaurant. • Greer also used the party's credit card to pay for personal expenses in his home town for dry cleaning and groceries.Florida's Pinellas County state committeeman, Tony DiMatteo believes lower level staff members are responsible for much of Greer's credit card transactions. Therefore, he feels the board should release details of all party card statements. According to DeMatteo, the party had hoped when they elected John Thrasher things would change. Unfortunately, things have only managed to get worse as more credit card abuse surfaces. Despite his diversion from card spending, it appears Crist will have more to answer for as his constituents Greer and Rimes face possible criminal charges. Former party Executive Director, Jim Rimes' statements reveal he racked up over $2 million during a two year period on chartered planes and limos while Senate President Jeff Atwater charged over $40,000 on the party's card. It is expected these gentlemen along with others can expect to hear ringing in their ears during the board's meeting.