By Carl Keith Greene/Staff Writer
Laurel County’s Homecoming kicked off the weekend Thursday night at the Russell Dyche Amphitheatre at Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park. The London Jazz Orchestra opened the annual event with music that was popular when the celebration was about 15 years old. With music such as George and Ira Gershwin’s “Strike Up the Band,” a Glen Miller arrangement of “American Patrol,” Tommy Dorsey’s “I’m Getting Sentimental Over You” and Miller’s “Little Brown Jug,” the audience had a chance to remember those days. Earl Smith of the London High School Class of 1952, recalled hanging out at the London Drive-in restaurant on U.S. 25 south of London and the Richardson’s Root Beer sold there. Jim Brock, LHS class of 1950, had fond memories of loading up friends in his 1937 Ford panel truck and taking them to the Ocean Wave Skating Rink at Fariston. The Homecoming festival continues with the annual parade in downtown London beginning at 6:30 p.m. Friday, preceded by a reception hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. Friday night at the park will see the Coca-Cola Classic Talent contest at the park amphitieatre. On Saturday morning at 10, all-day events begin at the park. At 6:30 that evening, the Heritage Foundation Ball begins at the park, followed by the Miss Laurel County Homecoming Pageant. On Sunday at 1 p.m., Praise in the Park begins with gospel music.
