Celebration 2009 Draws Praise
(Reprinted from the July 5 Martinsville Bulletin)
Celebration 2009 kept up the event’s tradition of first-rate entertainment for area residents.
Friday’s celebration was the 11th free event tied to the July Fourth holiday. Performers Phil Vassar, Jonathan Singleton and FATZ put on great performances that had people in the crowd stomping their feet, clapping their hands and singing along, all in good fun.
Children were kept busy with carnival rides bearing such names as Go Gator and Magic Carpet. The evening concluded with a huge fireworks display that lit up the sky and could be seen for miles.
All this was done without charge to the public. Even concessions were available at a low rate. A group of 41 sponsors made all that possible, ensuring that everyone in the area can have a fun holiday regardless of their means.
We applaud the speedway and the sponsors for putting on the celebration, and we look forward to its 12th year.
Celebration To Include Food Drive
(Reprinted from the June 15 edition of the Martinsville Bulletin)
A food drive will be held at Celebration 2009 at Martinsville Speedway to allow participants to help families in need in the area.
Martinsville Speedway and The United Way of Henry County and Martinsville are partnering on The Fuel for Families Food Drive during Celebration 2009, to be held July 3. Those who attend the event will be urged to bring nonperishable food and personal care items to drop off at one of several collection areas around the speedway.
Celebration 2009, which will feature country music star Phil Vassar and more than a dozen children’s rides, is a free-to-the-public event in its 11th year.
“This is an idea we’ve kicked around for a few years and with so many folks struggling these days, right now is the time to do it,” said Martinsville Speedway president W. Clay Campbell. “There are so many in our community that need help, the Fuel for Families Food Drive is a simple, easy and effective way for many of us to help. We are thankful that the United Way has partnered with us on this and together, the public, the United Way and Martinsville Speedway can make this a huge success.”
“We are excited to be teaming up with the Martinsville Speedway for the Fuel For Families Food Drive,” said United Way Board President Tiffani Underwood. “There are so many men, women and children in our community who are struggling with the most basic needs and we hope that we can use this wonderful community event to help meet those needs.”
Fans will be able to drop items off at collection points at any of the entrance gates to the grandstands and in the carnival ride area. Items also may be dropped off at the Martinsville Speedway office from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily leading up to Celebration 2009.
All contributed items will be distributed in the Martinsville and Henry County area.
Items most needed are nonperishable foods, particularly beef stew, soups and canned vegetables, and personal care items such as deodorant and toothpaste.
