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Community: The 2007 Labade Pig
Gig:
New Additions Expand a Classic
Summer Gathering
By Robert E. Martin
Certainly one of the more widely anticipated events of the summer season is just around the corner: The 2007 Labadie Pig Gig, presented by State Farm. This Championship Rib-Cook-off is the setting for national competitors vying for the title of 'Best in the Midwest' and rib champions from across the country will converge on Veteran's Memorial Park in Bay City from August 2nd - 5th with numerous new competitors, exciting new tastes, and plenty of new events to add to this tasty festival.
Apart from on-going entertainment on the
Health Plus Family Stage, including magic shows, clowns, and dance
performances, an incredible array of national entertainment is also
slated to tantalize your taste buds with a roster that features the
return to Bay City of The Bay City Rollers on Thursday, August
2nd;
STYX legend Dennis DeYoung performing The Music of STYX on
Friday, August 3rd;
90's Classic Rock/Pop Stars The Gin Blossoms on Saturday
August 4th;
and Country music star Mark Wills closing things out on
Sunday, August 5th.
With proceeds benefiting over sixteen
area charities, recently we sat down with Wendy Dore of
Doreable Entertainment, a key organizer of this remarkable event, to
glean her impressions about the constant evolution of this major
community event.
Since its inception The Labadie Pig
Gig has grown considerably over the years, not only in attendance
but also more importantly, in terms of community involvement and
support.
"Since the inception of the Labadie Pig Gig presented by State Farm, we have witnessed not only tremendous growth but considerable community involvement," notes organizer Wendy Dore.
"We started out benefiting only The
Boys 7 Girls Clubs an a few other smaller civic groups and now
benefit over 20 charities and have raised over $600,000 for the
benefiting organizations."
In addition to the numerous activities
and entertainers presented at the four-day affair, there are three major
additions for 2007. "First, we're holding The Dow Corning 5 K Race,
which will take place on Saturday, August 4th
at 10:30 AM," explains Wendy. "The race will be held on the Bay
County River walk ending with the finish line at the Labadie Pig Gig.
The race is open to all runners & walkers and those of us who need to
walk off those extra ribs!" jokes Wendy. "There will also be a Kids Race
for children 12 and under and participants receive free entry following
to the Pig Gig following the race." People interested in entering can
register online at
www.signmeupsports.com
Another new addition for 2007 is The
Great Lakes Harley Davidson Hog Heaven event, also on Saturday,
August 4th.
This will include a Teddy Bear Run, Hog Heaven Parking, and the
WKCQ Best Bike Contest. Benefits will sponsor hospitalized
children. "We're asking the public to drop off a new stuffed animal at
Great Lakes Harley Davidson in Bay City, 3850 S. Huron Rd. (M-13) so
the riders can take the new stuffed animals to Covenant Health Care to
drop off at the Pediatric unit, then drive back to the Labadie Pig Gig,"
explains Wendy.
"Finally, we have The Pigalicious
Tasting Tent, which is an exciting new addition whereby area Chefs,
media personalities and sponsors can demonstrate their favorite
recipes," notes Wendy. "Entry into the tent is free and Barefoot Wine
tasting samples will also be offered to compliment the fare when
appropriate." Featured entrees will include Thai Spring Rolls, Shrimp on
the Barbie, Beef Briscuit, and PlayDough Apple pie.
When asked about the most challenging
component in organizing an event of this magnitude, Wendy cites quality
and affordability. "The biggest challenge is to provide the highest
quality event and entertainment and still keep it affordable for
families. The ticket price is still only $5.00 in advance and
Kids 12 and under are free. We feel it's important to give Mid-Michigan
families and family friendly event that everyone can enjoy."
As to what she feels distinguishes the
Labadie Pig Gig from other types of festivals & summer events in the
tri-cities, Wendy points to the synergy behind this event. "Pig Gig has
a combination of many things. It has the old-fashioned family atmosphere
of a church picnic, great food that you can experience once a year, free
kids activities in a safe environment, and national entertainment that
comes to Bay City for a reasonable price."
"The Labadie Pig Gig presented by
State Farm has definitely evolved over the years," concludes Wendy.
"It is an event that we are proud to showcase our community and provide
funds to our community charities."
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