Event kicks off at Allentown High School July 1.
By: Laura Szalaj
ALLENTOWN Yellow billboards have been cropping up in the Allentown area during recent weeks advertising the upcoming Freedom Fest, which will feature fun and community fellowship.
One thing the signs do not advertise is the all-star lineup of sports celebrities scheduled to appear for autographs and photo opportunities.
Sponsored by the Allentown Presbyterian Church, the Borough of Allentown, the Township of Upper Freehold and the Upper Freehold Regional School District, the five-day community event will be held on the grounds of Allentown High School on July 1 to 5 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on the first three days and from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on July 4 and 5.
"The theme of the festival is an old-time country fair, which will benefit various groups in the Allentown-Upper Freehold area and surrounding community," said Cynthia Duvin, a member of the organizing committee. "Highlighting the historical charm of a small town, combined with the beauty of a rural setting, the festival planners hope to achieve a sense of community and fellowship."
The lineup of celebrities kicks off on July 1 with boxing legend Gerry Cooney, who will appear from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., followed by Keith Elias, a former New York Giant, on July 2 during the same time period. New York Jets "Fireman Ed," the NFL’s Best "12th Man," will make an appearance on July 3, also from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Appearing July 4 and 5, respectively, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. are former New York Giants Billy Taylor and Lee Rouson, who is also a two-time Super Bowl champion.
Peter Grandich, a managing member of Trinity Financial, Sports and Entertainment Management Co., LLC, organized the lineup along with Roger Wilbert of First Interstate Financial Corp. and David and John Suckey of Congilose Associates.
The Freedom Fest also will feature face painting, rides and games, fireworks on July 3, performances by local bands and a Community Idol contest. A spoof of the TV show American Idol, residents will have a chance to compete for the title of Community Idol in a competition based on talent.
Admission to the festival and all events is free of charge, although tickets are required to go on any rides. Each ride costs between three and five tickets, which can be purchased at the Allentown Presbyterian Church office, LaPiazza, Walter’s Pharmacy, or Wisteria in the Imlay House, according to Mrs. Duvin.
A sheet of 25 tickets can be purchased in advance at a discounted price of $10. The price increases to $18.50 per sheet during the event.