Yuma News Now

Imperial, California - The 19th annual installment of Freedom Fest will reflect a good old-fashioned 4th of July celebration on the campus of Imperial Valley College. The Sun Runners’ Car Club is returning this year with “Apple Bobbing”, “Watermelon Eating”, “Hula Hoop”, and “Bubble Gum Blowing” contests for the kids. 

This year’s theme for Freedom Fest 2009 is “USA, One Nation” honoring our brave men and women of the military, both past and present, who continually earn and refresh freedom for all. And, this years’ show pays tribute to the over 125,000 American men and women who lost their lives, were wounded, or missing in action 65 years ago during the D-Day Invasion.

FM 107.5 will once again produce and underwrite the fireworks show, synchronized to music, on behalf of the Imperial Valley Joint Chambers of Commerce: Calexico, Brawley, El Centro, Westmorland, Holtville, and Imperial.

“Through the years Freedom Fest has had some great static displays and this year promises to be another winner”, stated committee member James Inman. “Kids and adults alike will enjoy seeing the ICSO/REACH helicopter. Plus, the California Highway Patrol will display their awesome Charger Cruiser while they hand out recruitment information. Homeland Security Border Patrol and Customs is back again this year with their K-9 handlers, BORSTAR hummer, sand rail, and ATV’s. Plus, The American Red Cross will display the Hi Profile Aquatics Van, Trixxie the Emergency Vehicle, Scott the Family Services Disaster Van, and the local chapter Hummer.”

“Each year the Freedom Fest Committee receives tremendous support from the Imperial Valley College, cities, county, state, and federal agencies to help put this event on, stated Gene Brister, President/General Manager of KXO AM1230 and FM 107.5 and co-founder of the event. “We’re also very fortunate to have a major buy-in of Diamond sponsorships from Valley Plaza Shopping Center, Imperial Printers, McMillin Homes, Manzanita/Viejas, Hems Brothers Mortuary, EW Corporation, Superior Ready Mix/Ryerson, City of El Centro, and the Imperial Irrigation District.”

Fireworks America of San Diego will once again choreograph and fire the largest fireworks show in the Imperial Valley. Freedom Fest 2009 will be held on Saturday, July 4th, from 6:00 p.m. ‘til 10:30 p.m., on the campus of Imperial Valley College. Concession and static displays will open at 6:00 p.m. and the free fireworks show starts at 9:30 p.m..

Families are urged to bring their lawn chairs, blankets, and radios tuned to FM 107.5 for the fireworks music and prepare themselves for a fun filled evening of games, food, and great static displays. Alcoholic beverages, personal fireworks, and BBQ’s are not allowed on the college campus grounds. The fireworks show is free to the public. For more information the public can log on to kxoradio.com