Opinion by: E.
Eugene Webb PhD
You have probably noticed those ads for GreenLight are
still on PSTA buses.
I think those ads and the refusal of PSTA to allow
opposition access to the same ad space was one of the most maddening parts of
the whole GreenLight episode. It just seemed to symbolize the arrogance of the
PSTA administration and the PSTA toward the public.
Even though the State ruled the ads did not violate any
"campaigning rules" it still seemed a stretch to me to use Public
funds to promote a self serving cause.
My view of these little mobile billboards has changed
now that the election is over and the people of Pinellas County have soundly
sent a message to the PSTA. The message is pretty simple; the public will not
be hoodwinked by big rolling billboards, big campaign contributions, and lots
of politicians saying something they never really investigated is a good idea.
These days I just can't help but smile every time I
roll up behind a PSTA bus with the GreenLight ad plastered all over its back end.
Now those GreenLight ads represent what I really love
most about Pinellas County - how genuinely intelligent our citizens are. How
they can see through the fog of deceptive politics, special interests and big
money and how much they really do understand what this County needs in its
public transportation system and what is does not need.
Most importantly
how willing they are to go to the ballot and vote their convictions.
Next time you pull up behind a PSTA bus with the
GreenLight logo still on it just smile and be glad you live in a County where
the people have a voice and they use it.
As a final thought, if the PSTA is going to leave those
ads up for a while, they might want to consider an over lay on the ad - a
picture of Mr. Miller and Chairman Welch with the caption "We're
Sorry". I'll even chip in a few bucks to help cover the cost.
Just a thought.
E-mail Doc at: dr.webb@verizon.net. Or send me a Facebook (Gene Webb)
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