School or civic group sought to grill burgers, hot dogs at 250 event; other volunteers needed for parking

Grillers needed for Gateway 250

By Tom Marshall

Senior Advocate writer

The entertainment lineup for the Gateway 250 event is nearly complete and the lineup of food vendors is taking shape.

Gateway 250 is a celebration of the nation's 250th birthday, which occurs July 4.

A committee has orchestrated a major community event for that day at Cunningham Field on the Montgomery County High School campus.

The free event will include music, videos from veterans, historical displays, a children's area and a fireworks show at dusk. Gates will open at 4:30 p.m. 

According to Tourism Director Tracy Pearce, the food vendors will include Longer Table, The Waffle Wagon, Cafe New Orleans, Billy Mack’s Snack Shack, Hudson & Nash Ice Cream and Thomas’ Kettle Korn.

Pearce, however, said one thing is missing.

Pearce is looking for a school or civic group willing to grill hamburgers and hot dogs for the event.

Any group interested can call the Tourism Office at 859-498-8732 or can email mtourism@mis.net. 

Attendees are welcome to bring a picnic basket and blanket too. Coolers are permitted, but no alcohol, Pearce said.

The entertainment lineup includes commitments from Billie Renee and Cumberland Gap, 75 Split, Young at Heart Big Band, Nero's Fiddle, Dead Air Dennis and the Bryan Himes Experience.

Commemorative coins and T-shirts will be sold. 

Montgomery County Judge-Executive Chris Haddix said volunteers are needed to handle parking and other duties at the event. Anyone interested is urged to call the judge-executive's office at 859-498-8707.

Donations are still being sought. You can drop them off at the judge-executive's office at the Courthouse Annex or any Community Trust Bank drive-though.

There is also a "250 for 250" public challenge in which businesses and individuals are asked to contribute at least $250 toward the event.

You can contact the judge-executive's office to meet the challenge.