Column

Citrus sheriff picked wrong venue for comments

By Ernest Hooper, Times Columnist
Published March 3, 2008

It's never easy to have someone publicly question your professional abilities, but I think Citrus County Sheriff Jeff Dawsy should take the high road regarding Mark Lunsford's intent to sue over Dawsy's handling of the Jessica Lunsford murder case.

Dawsy, who called Lunsford's charges "baseless" and "absurd," needs to remember Lunsford is a man who has endured a tremendous ordeal, and done so largely with class.

Whether the allegations are valid or not, Dawsy should save his defense for the courtroom. And the rest of us need to reserve judgment on Lunsford.

Some may say the Puerto Rican protest against Ginny Brown-Waite is political correctness run amok. Don't be fooled. It's about respect for all, a concept Brown-Waite has struggled with more than once. Apologize.

Seen on a bumper sticker:Think - It's Patriotic.

Give it up for Mason Dixon, not because he celebrated his 30th year on Tampa Bay radio last week, but because he took it upon himself to start a nonprofit that annually grants Christmas wishes. The program, spearheaded by Dixon and his wife, Pat, expects to surpass the $1-million mark this December.

The Venue has opened in the old Storman's location on Ulmerton Road, and there's already a buzz. It features eight themed areas, including separate tapas and sushi restaurants. It's one more sign the Gateway/Feather Sound area is blowing up.

Heeding the advice of a friend, I gave up soda in an effort to lose weight. Unfortunately, she didn't tell me to give up beer so it hasn't really worked ... yet. Somebody said I should give up beer and just drink diet soda, but that's just crazy talk.

That's all I'm saying.

[Last modified March 2, 2008, 22:55:13]