Friday, September 20, 2002

Union City plans Fall Festival

By JANET MCGREGOR
Contributing Writer

Union City is well underway in its planning for the annual Fall Festival. Organizers are expecting a large turnout for the popular community festival. The event, which in the past has been held in the latter part of September, will be held October 11th and 12th to allow local high school bands to participate.

The annual event grew out of an Atlanta Regional Commission Management Certification course. Union City Department of Public Safety Director Bobby Fronebarger had to complete a project as part of the certification process. The first Fall Festival was his "project." He received his certification over ten years ago and Union City has received the benefits from his community project every year since.

The festival is truly a community event. It is coordinated by members of the community and is designed to showcase the community of Union City and South Fulton.

Police Chief Mike Isome is chairing the event with the help of Fire Chief Ken Collins, numerous other City employees and some community volunteers. Charles Rambo is coordinating the popular "Hoop Fest," a 3-on-3 basketball tournament. Mr. & Mrs. Michael Lacy volunteered to chair the Fiesta Friday Latin Street Dance, "Viva Union City."

Director Fronebarger continues to keep tabs on his "brainchild."

Over 3,000 attended the festival last year. This year Chief Isome expects that the involvement of local high school marching bands to draw even more attendees. Marching bands and dance teams from South Fulton County high schools will have a "Battle of the Bands" October 11.

The two-day event features activities for all ages. This year's theme is "Celebrate Union City."

Isome says he and other coordinators want participants to "have as much fun as they can." With a non-stop calendar of events for all ages, fun is guaranteed!

To participate in any of the events, including the Taste of Union City, call 770-306-6849 or 404-444-8377. Funding for the event is provided in part by the Fulton County Arts Council. Union City is reaching out to the business community for additional sponsorships.