Bayshore Boulevard: Jogger organizes run to raise awareness
Suzanne O'Neal set up the run to be both a memorial to Melissa McKenzie and to promote safer driving.
By DENISE WATSON BATTS
Published April 2, 2004
Suzanne O'Neal never knew Melissa McKenzie but shares her passion for jogging.
So when she read about McKenzie being struck by a motorcycle and killed while crossing Bayshore Boulevard in February, O'Neal wanted to do something.
O'Neal and a friend, Joanna Liossis, have organized a 3-mile memorial run in McKenzie's honor at 8 a.m. April 10. It will start and end at Bayshore and Ballast Point boulevards and turn around at Bayshore and El Prado Boulevard, the site of the accident.
The run is an opportunity for runners to get together and raise awareness of safer driving along Bayshore, O'Neal said. O'Neal, 28, who lives and jogs in Clearwater, said she frequently sees motorists neglect speed limit signs.
"We're not asking for much," she said. "We're asking drivers to obey the law and be a little more aware."
The run is free, but organizers are accepting donations for a college fund established for McKenzie's teenage son, Josh.
McKenzie's death prompted Mayor Pam Iorio to form a task force to examine ways to make Bayshore safer. The task force is looking at traffic calming alternatives, signage, pedestrian crosswalks, traffic signals and enforcement issues. Police have also increased their presence on Bayshore.
Refreshments and T-shirts will be provided. RSVP by sending an e-mail to mckenzierun@yahoo.com
