Re: Darce Taylor Crist Blvd. has a strange ring to it, April 24, C.T. Bowen column
Editor: I had the pleasure of being both a neighbor and a friend of Darce Taylor Crist for over 30 years. She was a remarkable woman who was a shining example of true commitment to community service. Darce's lifetime of involvement was not just in one area, but in communities throughout Tampa Bay. In fact, her dedication to improving the quality of life for all people extended across the ocean to Third World countries where we are currently fighting the war on terrorism, making this dedication all the more timely. Her good work continues today, and is extending into Pasco County through her son, state Sen. Victor Crist.
The effort to name State Road 56 for Darce was not a desire of Sen. Crist. In fact, it was organized without his involvement. My colleagues and I, including Sens. Tom Lee and Mike Fasano, who share in representing Pasco County, believe it was a wise and fitting tribute. In fact, it was approved by the Florida Senate unanimously. The residents of Pasco and Hillsborough counties should be proud that their state road was selected to honor a caring woman of such distinguished, charitable service.
Editor: If we need to name the new State Road 56 we should consider naming it after one of our local heroes, such as the 19 year old Marine or the Army sergeant who may be awarded the Medal of Honor. Both of these heroes lost their lives while defending our country in Iraq.
Other veterans or one of these heroes would be more appropriate than having SR 56 named after the senator's mother. To honor one of these two heroes would show our gratitude for giving their all for our country.
Editor: Is Pasco County Commissioner Ted Schrader for or against development? That seems to depend on just how much money he stands to make on the matter.
Just last fall he was leading the charge against Dade City for annexing 135 acres, supposedly because he felt that it might lead to too much urban sprawl and ruin the pastoral pleasantry of the area and choke local roads with too much traffic. Now he uses he gets the county to permit three homes instead of one per acre on 1,034 acres that his family happens to own. Now we know the real reason for his objection to Dade City's annexation. He didn't stand to make any money on that deal.
Editor: Why are we even discussing, much less considering, a state sales tax holiday when cuts are being proposed in education and health care due to budget shortfalls?
Wake up, senators and representatives! When you need money to survive, you don't give money away. Just say no!