An estimated 1500 people showed up at Lori Wilson Park in Cocoa Beach on June 26 to protest Republican led efforts to allow offshore oil drilling off the coast of Florida. Hands Across the Sand is leading an international effort to say “No to Offshore Drilling” and “Yes to Clean Energy”, they are the ones who organized the event.

The Surfrider Foundation and Tony Sasso also played major parts, both have been instrumental in preserving Florida for future generations. Hands Across the Sand held events worldwide and had a strong turnout.

Oil from the BP-Deepwater Horizons disaster is still flowing, and our local Republicans still support drilling for oil off Florida beaches. As you may know Republican Senator Mike Haridopolos, who represents most of Brevard’s beaches, is the champion of drilling for oil within three miles of Florida’s Beaches. His next job will be President of the Senate. Mike Haridopolos supports offshore oil drilling even though the total impact of oil to Florida beaches is still unknown. This shows Haridopolos is either a tool of big oil or lacks the judgment to hold office, unfortunately he’ll be returning to Tallahassee as he has no opponents this fall.