Publix Vice Chairman Barney Barnett Honored At Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -

Barney Barnett, Vice Chairman of Publix Super Markets, Inc., was honored on Friday, April 20th during the Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting Awards in Orlando, FL. Though Mr. Barnett was unable to attend the event, his son Wesley and daughter-in-law Ashley were present to accept his award and to Skype Mr. Barnett into the luncheon.

Gubernatorial candidate and current Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam was in attendance to show his appreciation for what the Barnett family has contributed to the state of Florida.

"The corporate and cultural values of [Publix] that penetrate all the way down to the bag boy is a reflection of the opportunities for Florida businesses that we want to create more of," said Commissioner Adam Putnam. "There are truck drivers and forklift operators and bakers who are owners of that company. And when you look at the values of TaxWatch and the values of free enterprise and an ownership society, that's what it's all about and we can build on that foundation to create for our state."

"Barney Barnett has not only been an exceptional business leader for this state, but a great friend to Florida TaxWatch," said Florida TaxWatch President and CEO Dominic M. Calabro. "Barney has served as a Board of Trustees member and as Chairman of the organization. His dedication to our mission and stewardship has helped TaxWatch improve government accountability and taxpayer value. It's an honor to serve with him, and I'm grateful for all of his hard work to our great state."

Barney Barnett has previously served as Florida TaxWatch Chairman and has been a long-time member of the Executive Committee and the Board of Trustees. Mr. Barnett has also served as Vice Chairman of Publix Super Markets, Inc. since 1998, and has been a Publix Board member since 1985.