Scott appoints two to FSU board

Gov. Rick Scott appointed Joe Gruters, 33, the chairman of the Republican Party of Sarasota and an accountant with Bradenton-based Shinn and Company, to Florida State University's Board of Trustees. He succeeds former Tampa Bay Buccaneers and FSU linebacker Derrick Brooks.

Gruters, whom Scott heaped praise on during last year's campaign, sought the chairmanship for the Republican Party of Florida earlier this year. That post went to former State Representative Dave Bitner.

Scott also appointed former House Speaker Allan Bense to the board. Bense, 59, also happens to be the father-in-law of Rep. Will Weatherford, R-Wesley Chapel, the House's Speaker-designate. Weatherford's brother, Drew, is a former FSU quarterback. The appointments are subject to Senate confirmation.