Lealman came out in full force to celebrate America’s birthday with its second annual Lealman Independence Day Celebration.
The free, family-friendly event included bounce houses, a water slide, music, a beer and wine garden, family-friendly activities, a Kona Ice truck and free hot dogs and burgers courtesy of the Lealman Fire Department. Baked beans and other sides were donated by Sonny’s BBQ in Pinellas Park. Sweet treats were donated by Bimbo.
The event was held at Lealman Park this year as Pinellas County continues construction to renovate Ray Neri Park. The event was planned and put on by the Lealman Engagement Committee, a group of local organizations and partners created to develop and host community events in Lealman.
“The Lealman Engagement Committee (LEC) is an action-oriented group of volunteer organizations that believes Lealman is on the rise and that community growth should be an integral part of its development,” said Zelda O’Connell, Chief Operating Officer of the Florida Dream Center. “A favorite part of my job is what we all accomplish together in the LEC.”
Commissioner Charlie Justice gave opening remarks, noting the event was filled with patriotism, unity, and a profound sense of community pride.
The event was sponsored by Crown Automotive, Duke Energy, Pinellas County, HCA Northside Hospital, Community Foundation Tampa Bay, Pinellas Housing Authority, Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, Blue Sky Communities, and Coastal Waste & Recycling.
“We’re thrilled to continue this new tradition in Lealman,” said Amy J. Cianci, who runs the Lealman Exchange. “Events like these are crucial in building a sense of community, and we’re proud to see Lealman residents coming together to celebrate and create lasting memories.”
The success of Lealman’s Independence Day celebration was made possible by the tireless efforts of dedicated volunteers and the community organizations that make up the Lealman Engagement Events Committee, which includes Pinellas County, Florida Dream Center, Lealman Fire District, Pinellas County Housing Authority, Lealman Community Association, Lealman Community District Services, St. Petersburg Foundation, and Exquisite Events & Marketing.
Event organizers say the park was left in great condition after the celebration, making post-event cleanup a breeze and demonstrating how much Lealmanites care for their community. Lealman’s second annual Independence Day celebration was a resounding success, setting the stage for future years of holiday festivities.