'Penny' has done much for Pinellas
By BUD ELIAS
Published March 9, 2007
I find myself growing weary of the negatives surrounding the proposed continuation of the Penny for Pinellas. What about all the good "Penny" has done?
While Pinellas County may not be perfect, we are truly blessed to live in an area that provides an abundance of quality of life venues. Every day I have an opportunity to think about what good fortune we all have to live here.
Pinellas County did not become a destination of choice by accident. The Penny for Pinellas has made a significant difference in our ability to attract visitors and at the same time provide for the needs of our citizens.
The Penny pays for capital improvements such as roads, parks, endangered land preservation, government facilities, etc.
Pinellas County may be "built out," but we are unique in that the county has, in its wisdom, set aside many acres of beautiful, dedicated green space for our collective enjoyment. Our county park system has become the envy of many, thanks in part to Penny for Pinellas.
Our many sports facilities located throughout Pinellas County provide state-of-the-art venues for men, women and children of all ages to participate and compete. Baseball, softball, soccer, golf, basketball, tennis, etc. Thanks in part to Penny for Pinellas.
For years, our citizens were starved for cultural opportunities. We have a year-round venue in beautiful Ruth Eckerd Hall that responds to our growing need for quality entertainment. Thanks in part to Penny for Pinellas.
We have one of the finest EMS systems in the country. We have the assurance that when a loved one is in need of immediate medical attention, qualified help will be there. Thanks in part to Penny for Pinellas.
The Bayside Bridge is a huge convenience for those traveling north and south. Thanks in part to Penny for Pinellas.
Our Pinellas Trail has become a venue that attracts people from all over the country. It enjoys an outstanding reputation as a quality attraction for bikers, in-line skaters, walkers, runners and those who enjoy traversing cross-country. Thanks to Penny for Pinellas.
For those who must travel our road systems on a daily basis, we have seen significant improvements to Belcher Road, Keene Road and U.S. 19. Thanks to Penny for Pinellas.
I am proud of the amenities "Penny" provides for residents and visitors alike. People from all over the country would like to live here, and, every day, many change their official residence to Pinellas County.
We need a "yes" vote for Penny for Pinellas on Tuesday.
Bud Elias of Clearwater is president of the Advantage Group.