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© St. Petersburg Times, published September 5, 2002
TAMPA -- The Web site for the Bayshore Patriots makes it clear: This is not a political event. So no campaign signs. It is not a parade. Or a tailgate party. And it is not -- repeat not -- Gasparilla.
"Flags Along Bayshore," organized by the Bayshore Patriots, is "a solemn memorial to remember the lives that were lost on Sept. 11, 2001, and to honor the public service personnel -- military, city, state and federal, that put their selves in harm's way to keep the rest of us safe and free."
The event, which will take place 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Sept. 11 along Bayshore Boulevard in South Tampa, is expected to be one of the largest memorials in state.
U.S. Army General Tommy Franks is the keynote speaker and Gov. Jeb Bush will also address the crowd.
About 8,000 school children are expected to attend, and 11,000 people have pledged to wave flags along the 4.5-mile roadway. The Bayshore Patriots, a group of regular flag wavers along Bayshore, are asking people to arrive before 7 a.m. Bayshore Boulevard will be closed to all traffic that morning. Everyone is urged to bring their own flag and to wear red, white and blue. Members of the Armed Services, veterans, police, fire and emergency personnel, government workers and scouts are encouraged to wear their uniforms.
Parking will be available between MacDill Avenue and Bayshore Boulevard and from Gandy to Hyde Park boulevards. Disabled parking will be available on Rome Avenue.
No seating will be provided, so folding chairs are welcomed. The Salvation Army will supply water, but there will not be food or drink vendors.
7 a.m. -- Line up.
8 a.m. -- Program starts with two processions: fire trucks from the north and military vehicles from the south.
A brass band, two choruses and the Berkeley Prep's bagpipe group will perform. 8:30 a.m. -- Pledge of Allegiance. Opening remarks and speakers: U.S. Army General Tommy Franks, Gov. Jeb Bush and Tampa Mayor Dick Greco.
There will be 3 minutes of silence, at the times the twin towers and the Pentagon were attacked. A military flyover will follow each moment of silence.
9:30 a.m. -- Taps and final salute.
For more information or updates visit: www.bayshorepatriots.com.