We didn't want to leave anyone out -and some of these didn't make it into the March Newsletter.
“This was 'grassroots' at its best. Over 20 events in Pinellas and 100+ in the state! All started by one man in the panhandle. Never believe that you can't make a difference, because you can.”
DOUG HICKMAN, one of the Redington Shores coordinators (Go to YouTube and search for more Hands Across the Sand videos.)
What I loved about Hands Across the Sand was the excitement of the crowd as we gathered in the parking lot (which reminded me of how we got President Obama elected) but, even more, walking down to the water's edge and turning around to see how many folks were following me to join hands and make a strong statement against drilling. It's wonderful to find you're not alone.
KAREN WELLS, at Indian Rocks Beach (right with Kathy Ewing)
“I chose to go to Clearwater Beach on a day when normally I would have stayed in, near the heater. I was dressed in heavy layers, wool hat, and gloves as we joined the thin crowd on the beach. The sun was shining bright, and the wind was blowing bitter cold. Near the pier, I mingled among the slowly growing crowd, collecting petition signatures. Many of the people I approached to speak with were tourists. They were in town seeking to enjoy some of the beauty that Clearwater Beach is known for. One of those attractions-warm weather- sure wasn’t to be found there that day. But the clean water and the white sand beach, attractions that I support protecting, were there.
“That cold day our Gulf water was oil-spill free and so sparkly in the bright sun, that it hurt my eyes to look at it for long. On another day I would have joyfully entered the inviting water for a refreshing swim.
On that cold day the minute granules of clean white sand were pelting us, driven over the wide beach by the bitter wind. It wasn’t spoiled by any dark oil-stained pollution. I looked up and down the long beach and out over the water vigorously experiencing this familiar place in a totally different way. The cold was in control, but it was good.
“A cold day at the beach offers resident as well as tourist a unique Florida experience. Being at Clearwater Beach on such a day reaffirmed my eagerness to guard this gift of nature that we have been given. It is ours to protect for future generations.”
GINNY NELSON at Clearwater Beach, Pier 60 (above, right, with Kathleen Jamison)
“I was gratified too see a large turn-out at Indian Rocks Beach It was more gratifying to know that the folks were united on this subject, regardless of their party affiliation. Even more, I was glad to be at the location that our U.S. congressman chose to attend. Although I agree with little else Rep. Bill Young supports, in the case of drilling off our shores we do agree, and it was nice to hear him speak so forcefully on his opposition to drilling.”
WANDA SCHWERER at Indian Rocks Beach (Right Rep. Young with bullhorn)
