(Austin, Texas-AP) -- As expected, Californian Ann Venemen has been chosen to be the first woman secretary of agriculture.

Mel Martinez, a Cuban refugee who became chairman of Florida's Orange County, is Bush's nominee to be secretary of housing and urban development.

And a man Bush describes as a "lifelong friend," campaign chairman Don Evans, was tabbed to be secretary of commerce.

Evans told reporters, "Now is no time for small plans or shrinking ambitions."

Earlier in the day, Bush announced that businessman Paul O'Neill was his choice to be treasury secretary.

He said O'Neill's experience will help guide the country if economic times turn rough.

Bush has been warning of a weakening economy -- and talking up his proposal to cut taxes in order to put more money in people's wallets.

(Copyright 2000 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)