Media Release

3:45 p.m.

ALACHUA COUNTY - The military and veteran community of Alachua County invites you to attend the second Annual Veterans Awards Banquet.  The banquet is on Saturday January 27, 2007, starting at 1830 hours (6:30 PM civilian time).  The banquet is at the Paramount Plaza Hotel and Conference Center, 2900 SW 13th Street, with a cost of $20.00 per person, which includes a buffet dinner, dessert, and entertainment. 

 This special evening allows former military personnel to meet and greet those currently serving.  It will also be an opportunity to thank our veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq wars.  Hosting this year’s banquet will be WKTK DJ Storm Roberts.  Snap Shot, singing inspirational patriotic songs, will provide the evenings entertainment.  The keynote speaker is Captain Bill Pokorney, U.S. Navy (ret).  Captain Pokorney will share interesting stories of his 20 plus years in naval aviation. 

Alachua County Veterans Services Director Jim Lynch, in speaking of the event, said,

"This is the one time of year for our community to gather and show support of our military veterans and enjoy an evening of camaraderie.  Due to the overwhelming success of last year’s inaugural event, we have had to move to a larger location.  If you can still fit into your uniform, you are encouraged to do so.  For the rest of us formal dinner attire will do.  Last year was an evening of fun and surprise with WW II D-Day veteran Frank Towers being selected as the 'Jim McCawley Veteran of the Year.' Nominations are being accepted for this year’s award, which will be announced after dinner.  We hope to see you there."

Please make checks payable to Veterans Memorial Committee/VAB and mail to County Veterans Office, 218 SE 24th Street, Gainesville, FL, 32641 or call 264-6740 for more information.

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