A TRADITION CONTINUES, BUT IN A DIFFERENT LOCATION

In case you haven't seen the advertisments in the local media, the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce will present it's "Politics in the Park" event Thursday afternoon from 5:00 until 8:00. But instead of the traditional location in downtown Lakeland's Munn Park, it will be held just east at the Lake Mirror Promenade.

A number of local and state candidates will be there to speak and greet attendees. Democratic U.S. Senator Bill Nelson has confirmed he will attend, as has GOP opponent Katherine Harris. Sadly, though, the only representative from any gubernatorial campaign that has confirmed is Jeff Kottkamp, Republican Charlie Crist's running mate.

There is no charge to attend and hear the candidates, but if you want to eat and participate in a straw poll there will be a $25 charge.