Welcome to the Vote "Coach P" Plasencia Blog Page. Here you can find all Updates, News Posts, and Previous Posts from the Campaign.
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Early voting centers are now open from 10am to 7pm until this Saturday, August 11th. I assure you that no one will represent you and our district with more honesty and integrity than I will. Please take 10-15 minutes out of your day today and cast your vote early for “Coach P.” It will save you time on August 14th where the wait will likely be longer. Remember to vote as each and every vote counts!
Vote “Coach P” – 2012 Primary Early Voting Centers Schedule
I am extremely proud to have the support and endorsement from Orlando City Commissioner District 2, Tony Ortiz. Commissioner Ortiz has been a resident of the City of Orlando since 1989 and is currently serving his second term as Commissioner. He has a long history of public service right here in the City of Orlando and knows first-hand the needs of the community. When asked about “Coach P,” Commissioner Ortiz stated,
“My friend Rene Plasencia, also known as “Coach P,” comes from a family that cherishes conservative values. “Coach P” brings the essence of public service to the residents of District 49. He doesn’t just believe in a safer community that prioritizes seniors and children, “Coach P” lives for it.”
In Orlando, Commissioner Ortiz is a pioneer in the implementation of the concept of Neighborhood and Business Councils. Commissioner Ortiz takes a proactive approach to maintain the communities and merchants involved with City government and law enforcement; while maintaining the local government abreast of the community issues and merchant’s problems. This concept serves as a solid foundation for responsible development and economic growth. In addition to his many accomplishments, Commissioner Ortiz also led the revitalization of the City of Orlando District 2 by initiating a Vision Plan to re-develop the Semoran corridor.
I am honored to have the support of Commissioner Ortiz, a local leader who is invested in the best interests of our community.
Thank you for your support and remember to vote for “Coach P” on August 14th.
Rene Plasencia “Coach P”
*Photo source: City of Orlando
Orlando, FL – Rene Plasencia, Republican, who is seeking election for the State House in District 49, has earned the endorsement of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). The Fraternal Order of Police Lodges 86, 93 and 25 have each endorsed Plasencia in his candidacy.
The Fraternal Order of Police is the largest professional police organization in the country. They are professionals working on behalf of all law enforcement officers from all ranks and levels of government. After careful consideration, Plasencia was determined to be the best candidate.
Plasencia responded to the endorsement and said, “It is a great honor to receive the endorsement and confidence of those who tirelessly serve to keep our communities safe. “I pledge to fight to ensure that our police forces have the tools and resources they need to get the job done,” continued Plasencia.
To date, Plasencia has also received the endorsements of the Florida Police Benevolent Association and Orlando Professional Firefighters Association.
Plasencia’s campaign focuses on job creation, education, taxation and government ethics.
Don’t forget election day is Tuesday, August 14!
I am often asked why I decided to run for office. Specifically, I am asked why I would consider leaving teaching. First and foremost, I am not leaving teaching, nor do I have any plans to. Our state legislature is a part time position. It was constructed in that way so that community members could serve without having to leave their jobs. I would be away from teaching for approximately two months while in session in Tallahassee. Once the legislative session is complete I will return to teaching at Colonial High School full time. My principal and administration are very supportive as they know my commitment to the students and Colonial.
For too long we have allowed politicians, many with no personal involvement in public schools, make all of the decisions concerning education. As the only candidate with actual classroom experience I can and will advocate on behalf of our children. I understand that an improved economy can only be sustained with an educated, employable workforce. As a lifelong resident of Orlando I have been witness to all of the changes, both good and bad, that have occurred during the past 20 years. As a teacher and coach I have personal knowledge of the issues faced by our families. As the owner of a small family business I understand the pressures that small businesses, which are the largest creators of jobs, face. With regard to District 49 specifically, I know the community better than any of the other candidates. This year, teachers and community members have the unprecedented opportunity to have one of their own involved in those decisions, advocating for their concerns.
Unlike most of the people who enter into politics my goal is not to become a career politician. I simply believe there is a lack of integrity in many of our elected officials and believe that I can do the best job for our community. I strongly believe that we all have a purpose in life and that when we act on that purpose, the whole community benefits. As a teacher and coach I teach my kids to be honest, to work hard, and to understand that nothing is given to us easily but that we must earn what we have. I plan to bring the same passion that I have brought to the classroom for the past 12 years to Tallahassee.
I am the candidate that will advocate for the best interest of this community and all of its members. I ask for your vote on August 14th.
Sincerely,
Rene Plasencia “Coach P”
Team “Coach P” decided to ask, Mrs. P, Yvonne, a few questions about herself and her thoughts on Rene’s race.
Yvonne was born in Puerto Rico and came to Florida with her parents and two older brothers at a young age. Yvonne started school in Florida not knowing the English language. Her first teacher, Ms. Wilson, fought to keep Yvonne from being held back and fought to keep her in a class with all English speaking students. Before the end of that first year, Yvonne was able to speak, read, and write fluently in English. It was Ms. Wilson who taught Yvonne the impact that teachers have and the importance of a good education.
A true product of Florida’s public school system, Yvonne ultimately graduated from Piper High School in Sunrise, Florida and went on to receive both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from UCF. While at UCF, Yvonne was selected to work as a Graduate Assistant and earned an Outstanding Graduate Student award.
To this day, my parents and I have not forgotten Ms. Wilson. I will always credit her for my success in school, which ultimately prepared me to succeed in college and beyond,
said Yvonne when asked about her first experience in the public school system.
When speaking of her husband, Rene Plasencia, Yvonne shares,
It wasn’t until I met Rene, that I had met another teacher so willing and dedicated to ensuring the success of their students. Rene’s passion and devotion for teaching and for his students does not end in the classroom. He truly cares and is committed to improving our community in order to provide better opportunities for his students and their families.
Rene and Yvonne met in Orlando in 2004. There was an immediate spark due to their love of animals. However, soon after they met, Yvonne moved to Washington, DC for a job opportunity. Speaking about their time apart, Yvonne said,
Rene and I thought a lot about what we would do and even contemplated Rene moving to Washington, DC. Ultimately, his love for his job and our shared love for the Orlando community won out.
While Yvonne grew up in south Florida, Orlando had become her home.
I knew that I would eventually want to lay roots in Orlando and have a family here. There is nowhere else besides Orlando where we would rather be.
After a couple of years in Washington, DC, Yvonne received a transfer to Orlando. In November 2008, Rene and Yvonne were married at the Courtyard at Lake Lucerne in Orlando.
It was a beautiful evening with family and friends from all over the country, including Puerto Rico,
says Yvonne of their wedding. When speaking of Rene’s decision to run for the Florida House of Representatives, Yvonne shares,
As far as political aspirations, Rene’s goal is not to become a career politician. I know he would tell you that himself. His goal is simple, to help make a better community for us to live in. Rene saw an opportunity to make a difference and decided to take action. He puts all of his effort into everything he does. I know that Rene winning this seat is a win for the entire community and for our future children. I am extremely proud and fully stand behind his decision to run for State House, district 49.
Thanks for taking the time to speak with us, Yvonne!
Remember vote Rene Plasencia “Coach P” at the primary election on August 14th. Have a voice and register to vote!
~Team “Coach P”
or have a visit to the Contact Page where you can request for a mailed copy, and even a Yard Sign!