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Jubilee offers up jumping good time
The annual spring fest features a family-friendly theme and will raise money for charity.
By EDDY RAMIREZ
Published April 8, 2005
RIVERVIEW - If the balloon launch doesn't draw enough families to this year's Spring Jubilee, perhaps the large fireworks display will.
From a classic Corvette show to a chili cookoff and a 5K race, organizers hope to attract a record number of people to the four-day festival beginning Thursday.
"It's a way to bring families together and to give something back to the community," organizer and Riverview resident Jack Serio said.
Now in its fourth year, the Spring Jubilee will be spread over 8 acres near the corner of Boyette and Bell Shoals roads.
Admission to the festival is free. Money raised from entry fees to special events, including the 5K run, the chili cookoff and the classic Corvette show will go to All Children's Hospital in St. Petersburg.
Last year, an estimated 50,000 people flocked to the festival, netting $8,000 for the hospital.
This year, organizers hope to cut the medical center a bigger check. They also hope to raise money for St. Stephen Catholic Church at 5049 Bell Shoals Road in Valrico.
In keeping with the theme of the festival, "A Celebration of Family Fun," organizers have invited the families of 15 underprivileged children to attend the festivities for free.
The festival kicks off with more than 35 midway rides, an assortment of food and the folk music of Cliff Ritchie, a local hit with Sun City Center residents.
On Friday, local high school bands compete for bragging rights in a battle of the bands.
The action starts early Saturday with the festival's signature event, the Balloon Classic, at 7 a.m and a 5K run at 8 a.m.
Then, between 2 and 4 p.m., the chili cookoff will pit the likes of Harley Gilmore, the chef of Harley's Home Cookin', against other aspiring chefs who will compete for the top prize.
At 10 p.m., a large fireworks display will light up the sky.
The festival closes Sunday with a talent show, more rides and food.
IF YOU GO
The Spring Jubilee runs through Sunday at 10428 St. Stephen Circle in Riverview, near Boyette and Bell Shoals roads. Hours are 5 to 11 p.m. today, noon to 11 p.m. Saturday and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free. For a complete entertainment schedule, visit www.springjubilee.com or call 689-7174.
[Last modified April 7, 2005, 08:55:10]
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