Kingsley Seeks Veterans To Recite Pledge

BROOKSVILLE - Wanted: Military veterans or their representatives to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at county commission meetings.

Newly appointed Hernando County Commissioner Chris Kingsley said Friday that he wants to continue the practice begun by his predecessor, Jeff Stabins, of having veterans lead the audience and board in the pledge.

"I think it is a good way to honor our veterans and get them involved in government," Kingsley said.

If there are enough recruits, Kingsley said he would also welcome veterans to lead the pledge at commissioners' monthly land use hearings.

Kingsley's colleagues this week unanimously chose him to be chairman for 2008. He praised Stabins for his leadership and his courage during a year rocked by marathon budget hearings and a few contentious meetings involving Spring Hill Fire Rescue and the controversial Hickory Hill mega-residential development proposed for Spring Lake.

Often, Stabins would tailor his pre-meeting invocations around a particular theme commissioners would address that day.

Kingsley said he plans to continue the invocations. But he is not sure he can match Stabins' eloquence.

"I'm going to try and if I fail, then I'll just let Jeff continue to keep doing it," Kingsley said.

County commissioners' first regular business meeting of the year is at 9 a.m. Tuesday at the Hernando County Government Center, 20 North Main St., downtown Brooksville.

Veterans who are interested in leading the Pledge of Allegiance during county commission meetings can contact Dianne Cox at 540-6453.