Monroe's annual Cheese Festival set for Sept. 10

MONROE — Saying an early goodbye to summer and all the devastating affects from tropical storm Irene, residents can enjoy the fun and good food, entertainment, and rides at Monroe’s annual Cheese Festival next Saturday, Sept. 10, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Festival chairman Joe Mancuso has the annual event down to a science, beginning with the volunteers who assist him in making the day one for meeting your neighbors and those you haven’t seen in years, including former residents who plan vacations around the festival time. “We keep the festival as a local event,” Mancuso said, “by adding more entertainment, rides, vendors, non-profit and civic groups as well as good food from pizzerias, deli’s and restaurants.” There also will be sports collectible tables, martial art demonstrations and performances by dancers from local dancing schools. The event is sponsored by Action in Monroe and civic organizations and local businesses. This year the festival is selling a cheese board with the festival logo on it. “It is a nice remembrance of the event,” Mancuso said. On the stage working the crowd will be DJ’s Joe Cool and George Carney. One of the most popular attractions is the Monroe Idol contest in which vocalists vie for cash awards. A panel of judges will determine the winners based on the applause from the crowd. Local talent must register before Sept. 10. Music Nothing makes a festival more entertaining than music. Taking the stage at the following times will be: 11 a.m. Orange County Youth Symphony 12 p.m. Bruce Perone 1 p.m. Karen Beals Band 2 p.m. Levins Band 3 p.m. Mood Belly Blues Band 4 p.m. The Monroe Idol Contest Monroe’s claim to fame In 1989, the Monroe Historical Society honored the Monroe Cheese Company, Liederkranz, Velveeta and those who worked at the former factory on Mill Pond Parkway, next to the Monroe Theater. The Cheese Festival originated after a block party was held in commemoration of the Village of Monroe’s Centennial in 1989. The block party was so successful, said Mancuso, a former mayor, “we decided to do it again the following year and called it, the Cheese Festival.” The festival will take place rain or shine unless torrential rains and wind occur. Online For more information, or to register for the Monroe Idol contest, visit online at http://monroecheesefestival.com.