Fasano collects more money with Crist's help

State Sen. Mike Fasano said he raised $45,000 at a Monday night fundraiser with Gov. Charlie Crist. Fasano, R-New Port Richey, already enjoyed a vast financial advantage over Democrat Fred Taylor in his re-election bid.

"Mike is not the largest man in the world, but you won't find a stronger man," Crist said at Spartan Manor to a crowd of more than 100. "He has a backbone of steel."

Crist, joined by fiancee Carole Rome, worked hard to help fight for lower insurance rates. Other attendees included Florida GOP chairman Jim Greer, state Reps. John Legg and Will Weatherford, and even Pasco Republican Party Chairman Bill Bunting, Fasano's internal party nemesis.

-- David DeCamp, Times staff writer

*