We've always been proud of the area of Florida in which we're located but never prouder than we are now. Polk County was officially named an All-America County by the National Civic League. It's a prestigious award, and we are glad to be part of such a dynamic community.

For those of you who don't know the area, Polk County is located in Central Florida between Tampa on the west and Orlando on the east. It spans about 2,000 square miles, larger than the state of Rhode Island! There are more than 500 freshwater lakes and more than 40 golf courses in that space. We've compiled a list of some of the most popular nearby attractions - check them out!

Florida Presbyterian Homes will host a free health fair for seniors on its campus, 16 Lake Hunter Drive in Lakeland, on Wed., April 9. Dr. Michael Paul Gimness will start the day with a discussion on shingles at 9 a.m., and the health fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Other speakers will discuss community-acquired infections and pharmaceutical issues. The health fair features brain fitness programs, medication evaluations, diabetic education, and massage therapy. Several free screenings for hearing, vision, blood pressure, blood sugar, balance, and memory will be offered. Attendees can try their hands at art and music therapy, and the Lighthouse for the Blind will provide a range of resources and equipment designed to help people with visual impairments to live independently at home.

“This is an interactive and broad educational experience related to older adult health,” said Elizabeth Weber, parish nurse for Florida Presbyterian Homes.

During the health fair, Lifeline Screening will offer a comprehensive set of screenings for a fee of $129. These are screenings for stroke, osteoporosis, abdominal aortic aneurysm, blood pressure, and peripheral artery diseases. Appointments can be made by calling 800-324-1851.
For more information on the health fair, contact Elizabeth Weber at 863-577-6011.

Tracy Jernigan has been hired as Florida Presbyterian Homes' new director of nursing. She attended Miami University in Ohio, earning her associate's degree in 1999. She and her husband moved to Florida from Ohio one year ago. While in Ohio, she worked for eight years in a large, non-profit, continuing care retirement community.

Treva Clark is the new wellness coordinator for Florida Presbyterian Homes. Clark has lived in Plant City for 14 years. She has been a group fitness instructor seven years with the YMCA, a personal trainer for five years and a senior and kids group fitness instructor for five.