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Local Football Field Gets Upgrade

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By JOSE PATINO GIRONA

jpatino@tampatrib.com

Published: January 30, 2009

TAMPA - About a week ago, the Lincoln Gardens Park football field was in poor condition.

But on Thursday morning it was immaculate, enhanced with new turf set in place in 43 hours. The field was stripped and lined - ready for a game.

Kellogg's Frosted Flakes sponsored the renovation of the field at 4007 W. Palmetto St. It is the first of 50 youth athletic fields nationwide that Kellogg's plans to rehabilitate this year.
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees was on hand for Thursday's dedication.

Brees said he grew up in Texas where playing outside was common. An improved field can give children a place to develop their skills, keep in shape and interact with peers, he said.

"I'm a firm believer in community service," said Brees, who with his wife formed the Brees Dream Foundation to help young people and to improve parks and playgrounds. "I understand the role I can play not only as an NFL athlete but as a member of the community."

Kellogg's began the project of rehabilitating youth athletic fields last year by selecting nine fields throughout the country. This year, it has increased its scope and is asking people to nominate fields in need of improvement. To learn more about the program or to nominate a field, visit www.frostedflakes.com.

Tampa's parks and recreation department selected the Lincoln Gardens Park field. Karen Palus, the city's parks and recreation director, said the improvement was welcome.

The field is used by more than 1,000 children and adults, Palus said. Youth and adult football teams practice and hold games on the field. It is also used by youth soccer and lacrosse teams, she said.

Last year, the field was named for Cedric "C.J." Mills, a Jefferson High football player who was killed in 2007. Mills played youth football games at the field.

His family and friends attended the dedication.

"It is a lot better than it was before," said John Dock, 20, Mills' older brother. "It will bring out more of the youth and more awareness to the park."

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