Florida Governor to State Farm: On Your Way Out, Here's an Award

The man who is letting insurance giant State Farm exit the state, which some fear will foster a property insurance disaster in Florida, gave the insurer an award this week for innovation and disaster mitigation.

State Farm was recognized by Gov. Charlie Crist with the Governor's Hurricane Conference Corporate Award for "innovation and achievement in public awareness and mitigation advocacy."

The award recognizes State Farm's support of StormStruck, an exhibit at Walt Disney World Resort that enables guests to experience the power of a weather event while learning how to prepare for floods, hail, high winds, lightning and more.

The award was presented at the 2009 Governor's Hurricane Conference in Fort Lauderdale this week.

"Long before disaster strikes, State Farm is there educating the public about safety and disaster preparedness," said Jamie France, property/casualty underwriting manager with State Farm Insurance. "StormStruck allows us to reach millions of people and inspire action before a disaster strikes. We are honored that the Conference recognized our commitment to saving lives and protecting property."

State Farm also recognized the the other sponsors of StormStruck: Walt Disney World, Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, RenaissanceRe, WeatherPredict Consulting and Simpson Strong-tie.