Peter Schorsch
The latest edition of the 4th Floor Files talks with lobbyist Christie Pontis, who represents telecommunications carrier CenturyLink in the Florida Legislature.
CenturyLink, the country’s third-largest telecommunications company, offers a wide range of data, voice and managed services. The Federal Communications Commission recently selected the Louisiana-based company to provide broadband to 1.2 million U.S. homes and businesses in rural areas, in a six-year project covering 33 states.
Here is the file on Christie Pontis.
Significant other? Children? Grand kids?
Boyfriend Eric Mason and fur-baby, my goldendoodle, Maggie Mae.
In 25 words or less, explain what you do.
Manage/represent CenturyLink’s political agenda in the state of Florida.
Without using the words Democrat, Independent or Republican, conservative or liberal, describe your political persuasion.
I believe in American flags, the American Dream, apple pie, and white picket fences.
If you have one, what is your motto?
Life is short, enjoy it.
During your career, have you had a favorite pro bono client?
I’ve never had a pro bono client …
Three favorite charities.
Foundation for Leon County Schools, Junior League of Tallahassee, and Girls on the Run.
Any last-day-of-Session traditions?
Scarfing down my candy bag provided by my favorite Colorful and Classy Friend in her corner of the 4th Floor.
What are you most looking forward to during the Legislative Session.
Sine Die
If you could have another lobbyist’s client list, it would be…
No one’s, I love being an in house lobbyist for a telecommunications company.
Professional accomplishment of which you are most proud?
Surviving yet another year of my bosses’ hysterical stories without ever accidentally blowing my beverage of choice out of my nose or mouth.
Lobbyists are often accused of wearing Gucci loafers; do you own a pair of Gucci loafers? If not, why not?
At the time being, Gucci loafers are not on my radar … #lifegoals
Who is your favorite Florida Capitol Press Corps reporter and why?
Anyone that is on my side of a telecom issue.
Other than SaintPetersBlog.com, your reading list includes…
Southern Lobbyist and Young House Love.
What swear word do you use most often?
A quick outburst of damn it, followed by a kick to the closest object … Maggie Mae is learning to stay clear.
What is your most treasured possession?
My great-great-great grandmother’s diamond ring.
The best hotel in Florida is…
Any beach house or condo on 30A.
You’ve just learned that you will be hosting a morning talk show about Florida politics. Who are the first four guests you’d invite to appear?
Morning Show – Capitol Fashion with Andrea Reilly, Erin Ballas, Alli Liby-Schoonover and special guest LC Schoonover.
Favorite movie.
Growing up, my favorite movie was Now and Then.
When you pig out, what do you eat?
Buffalo Chicken Pizza and/or any chocolate-peanut butter combo.
If you could have dinner with a historical figure no longer living, who would it be?
President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and discuss space/NASA’s Mercury 7.
