May 24, 2012
ASHLAND, Ky. (WSAZ) -- With the Ohio River finally receding, the Tri-States biggest summer festival can return to its remodeled riverfront roots.
The theme for this year's Summer Motion festival in Ashland is "Hits Home in Many More Ways Than One."
That theme is homecoming. And after two years at Ashland's Central Park -- waiting for the $11 million makeover at Ashland Riverfront Park to finish -- Summer Motion organizers are bringing the big-timers back.
From the "Achy Breaky Boy" Billy Ray Cyrus and the senior senator from the commonwealth to your loved one at war -- there's a stellar lineup planned.
Summer Motion President Chuck Charles says the city had the new riverfront park well prepared to endure 22 days of being submerged under high water. He says the new lawn will be fine for the July 4 opening.
“We can fit in many more people, and they will all have a better view,” Charles said.
In 2005, U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell delivered $10 million federal earmark dollars to pay for most of phase one there. And city leaders are pleased that on July 4, 2011, McConnell will return to dedicate Ashland’s new riverpark.
“For those who bash earmarks, this is not pork," Commissioner Kevin Gunderson said. "This is a regional project. Many people from Ohio and West Virginia come here.”
Following the Senate minority leader, Billy Ray Cyrus will play a 4th of July homecoming concert. The last time the Flatwoods native came to Ashland was in 1992. At that time, organizers got him for $5,000, and 44,000 people showed up for the concert.
Finally on the Fourth, Summer Motion will salute Tri-State loved ones now serving in the armed forces. They will be shown on the big screen as the patriotic show is going on.
That military photo spread will sync up with the Tri-State's large fireworks display on July 4.
Anyone in the Tri-State can submit a photo of a loved one now serving in the military. Just go to our Featured Links here at WSAZ.com for to find out how to to it.
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