By Deb Mowbray

“Latitude, traditionally measured in degrees, minutes and seconds, is reflected in the daily lives of our nieces, Audrey and Olivia (A&O), ages 12 and 10, in their achievements, opportunities and countless moments of enjoyment with family and friends,” writes Tammy and Pat Shays. “A&O’s lives, as well as the lives of 30,000 other children and adults are continually enhanced by advances in research and treatment for Cystic Fibrosis (CF),” they continue.

On Sunday, May 6, 2012 the second annual Kent Island GREAT STRIDES walk to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will be held at the Bridges on the Narrows Restaurant. Participants can plan to walk on the Cross Island Trail, sponsor the Shay’s team, donate to the CF Foundation, and visit dockside at the Restaurant.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is dedicated and works hard to achieve its mission – assuring the development of the means to cure and control this genetic disease. According to the Shays, this year’s progress in research, gene therapy and new medicines has been remarkable, adding to the quality and latitude of life for people with CF.

“I became interested in hosting the event when Tammy Shay pitched the idea to me,” says Angelique Litherland, General Manager of Bridges on the Narrows Restaurant. “When I learned that the average life expectancy of those with CF was so young, it was heartbreaking. It appealed to me that we were a young business and the Shays were just starting this walk and I felt we could start together. Apparently they have come to a breakthrough in treatment and hope to have a medicine or a cure,” she adds, noting the importance of supporting the organization’s progress.

While just two years old, Bridges on the Narrows Restaurant has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant offers superb cuisine from famed Chef Clark, formerly of the acclaimed Julia’s Restaurant in Centreville, stellar water views, and happy hour seven days a week with live entertainment on weekends. Providing an ideal venue for waterside dining and catered events such as weddings, Bridges’ breathtaking setting features an enclosed patio, open veranda and dockside bar,

For further information on participating in the Kent Island Great Strides benefit walk, the Shays have registered at http://www.cff.org/Great_Strides/TammyAndPatShay7617 under Team Name “A&O Latitude”. To learn more about Cystic Fibrosis visit www.cff.org.

For additional information about Bridges on the Narrows Restaurant visit online: www.bridgesrestaurant.net or call 410-827-0282. Bridges is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner with happy hour daily from 4-6:30pm. The restaurant also has a private dock and offers 16 complimentary boat slips for dock and diners.