Lakeland's Politics in the Park announced

Lake Mirror Promenade, Downtown Lakeland
Thursday, October, 5:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Admission to the Event is FREE

Governor Charlie Crist and Command Sergeant Major Michele Jones to Address Crowd at Event

Lakeland, FL – The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce will host the 2008 Politics in the Park on Thursday, October 16th from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Lake Mirror Promenade in downtown Lakeland.

Politics in the Park is an old-fashioned political rally that gives the community an opportunity to meet with and hear from candidates – across all levels of government – for the 2008 election.

All individuals over 18 years of age will be able to participate in the Straw Poll conducted by the Polk County Supervisor of Elections office, with results announced that evening at the close of the event.

"We hope the Polk County community will get behind this event and come out to support their candidates, enjoy live entertainment and plenty of food and beverage," said Chuck Aiken, 2008 Politics in the Park Committee Chair. "And if voters are undecided, the event will serve as the perfect opportunity to hear from candidates so that they can make an educated decision on November 4th."

Politics in the Park is a family-friendly event with special appearances to be made by AMVETS Post 32, the Lakeland High School Drumline, emcee Jennifer Leigh of News Channel 8, and a Fly-By of a vintage World War II aircraft will kick off the event.

Restaurants participating in the event are: Abuelo's, Ale Gators, Dairy Queen, Fred's Southern Kitchen, Kazbor's Grille, Outback Steakhouse and Rib Crib. In addition, hot dogs will be available.


The following candidates have confirmed attendance:

• US Representative District 12: Adam Putnam and Doug Tudor
• US Representative District 15: Frank Zilaitis
• State Senate District 17: JD Alexander and Scott Thompson
• State Representative District 64: Alton Smith, Kelli Stargel and Gordon Watts
• State Representative District 65: Bob Hagenmaier and John Wood
• State Representative District 79: Ray Worley
• County Commission District 3: Nancy Daley, Ed Smith and Ghassan Zebdaoui
• County Commission District 5: Jim Brown, Sam Johnson and Jacquelyn Smith
• Polk County Sheriff: Grady Judd and Michael Lashman

"Senators McCain and Obama have received our invitation, and the committee is hopeful," said Aiken.

"Lakeland is located in our nation's largest swing state and in the middle of the all-important I-4 corridor, so it would be in their best interests to attend."

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For more information on the 2008 Politics in the Park, please contact Ashley at the Chamber at 863/688-8551 ext. 241 or alink@lakelandchamber.com.