Running for over 80 years, Milltown’s Fourth of July celebration, themed “A Time to Remember” tomorrow, will be a summer treat drawing thousands.
“It’s a tradition steeped in this community,” said Randy Farkas, Borough Council president and chairman of its Fourth of July Committee. “It’s the day Milltown shines.”
The day starts with a fishing derby at 6:30 a.m., followed by a Fun Run and 5K Run at 7:30 and 8 a.m., respectively. A patriotic house competition, to be voted on by community members at the committee tent, is held throughout the day.
The parade kicks off at 10 a.m., rain or shine. Starting at Van Liew Avenue, it continues along Main Street to East Lincoln, JFK Boulevard and finally, Violet Terrace.
Food and entertainment will be provided at Borough Park on Violet Terrace starting at noon, and festivities continue through the fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.
Mr. Ray will perform from 1 to 2 p.m., while the Dixie Rascals Quartet, the Ray Walker Quartet and Swing Street will play at other points in the day. The Jumpers Orchestra will perform from 7 to 9:30 p.m.
Carnival rides will also be at the park.
From noon to 3 p.m., 625 pounds of hot dogs and 15 kegs of soda will be distributed for free.
Many area organizations will be marching in the parade, including the fire and police departments, rescue squad, VFW, American Legion, Our Lady of Lourdes, Masons, Rangers Athletic Association and the New Brunswick Elks, among others.
Bill Auer, 61, a second-generation, resident of Milltown, was chosen as grand marshal of the parade.
“We were really overwhelmed by the support the community has shown for Bill Auer,” Farkas said. “He’s an inspiration for everyone.”
Paralyzed in a diving accident at age 17, Auer later became involved with many local organizations.
“I couldn’t compete in swimming or baseball or sports activities, so I had to participate in a different way,” Auer said.
Through the 1970s, Auer ran the Milltown Special Recreation Program for Brain- Injured Children. He also served on the Library Board of Trustees, Committee for Community Betterment, and the Diocese of Metuchen Council for People With Disabilities.
Auer has been most active with the Milltown Jaycee community service organization, holding a senatorship starting in 1981. He was elected Jaycee of the Year twice.
He is also a charter member of the Knights of Columbus at Our Lady of Lourdes Church.
Auer also is involved with the county-administrated Personal Assistance Service Program (PASP) and is chairman of the Middlesex County Commission for Persons With Disabilities.
“That’s what Milltown is, a volunteer town, and everyone wants to get involved doing it,” Auer said.
In H. Rodney Luery’s 1971 book “The History of Milltown,” an entire chapter is dedicated to Auer and the town’s fundraising efforts for his medical treatment, as well as his 18th birthday party in the immediate aftermath of his accident.
Auer commended the borough’s residents for their never-ending will to assist others.
“That’s what’s nice about Milltown, if you can afford it you pay for it, or you can make a donation,” Auer said.
Auer said that the Fourth of July committee worked hard all year to prepare for tomorrow’s festivities.
Farkas called Auer in March to tell him the news about being selected grand marshal.
“I didn’t know my name had been submitted,” Auer said. “It was quite a surprise.”
Auer was always helping out on the Fourth of July, including running a parade float and serving soda with the Jaycees.
“My family had a picnic after the parade every year and then stayed to see the fireworks,” said Auer.
Auer said he has always felt a sense of nostalgia for his hometown’s biggest celebration.
“I’m still a kid when it comes to the Fourth of July parade,” he said.