LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Posted on 18 July 2013 by LeslieM

Parasailing regulation

Dear Editor:

In light of the most recent parasailing accident in Panama City, FL [2 Indiana teens injured July 1], I believe that my bill, HB-245, could have aided in avoiding this tragic accident.

The refusal of Rep. Debbie Mayfield, (R-Vero Beach, FL), to hear my bill in Committee shows an unwillingness to deal with issues that have a direct effect on the tourism and economics of our state.

Several legislative attempts have been made to bring regulation to the Parasailing industry.

During the 2013 Legislative Session, I filed HB 245 in an effort to bring regulation. (Senator Maria Sachs carried the bill in the Senate, SB 64). Representative Debbie Mayfield, (R-Vero Beach, FL), refused to hear the bill in the first committee of reference, Business & Professional Regulation Subcommittee.

I have spoken with Representative Jimmy Patronis, (R-Panama City, FL). He has indicated that there was push back from Aquatic Adventures of Panama City Beach to have the bill heard during this session. There was support for HB-245 from Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA), Daytona Beach Parasail, Inc., Broward County Marine Advisory Committee and Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission (FWC).

My thoughts and prayers are with the teen victims and their family members. I will be filing this bill again in the upcoming Legislative Session and I am hoping that the leadership will see the need for having this bill heard in committees and that it passes favorably on the floor of the House of Representatives.

State Representative

Gwyndolen “Gwyn” Clarke-Reed

Deerfield Beach

Another Boca Jewel

Dear Editor:

The other night in Wold Theatre on the campus of Lynn University [where the last Presidential debate was held] there was a packed house. The Atlantic City Boys gave a bravura performance that was applauded and cheered by all. How wonderful to have the Grand Dame of Boca Theater, Jan McArt, produce programs for all of Boca’s residents. This summer program is such a welcome respite from our becoming a closed-until-next-season town. While it is very nice to be able to park everywhere once the snow birds are gone, we still look for things of interest, enlightenment and entertainment. Cheers to Lynn University President Kevin Ross for the foresight in opening the theater for full time residents and summer visitors. Cheers to Jan McArt for doing her always impeccable job of bringing great talent to us. I’m definitely a fan and have renewed my subscription for next season.

Etta Schaeffer

Boca Raton

Comments are closed.

Advertise Here
Advertise Here