Community Corner
Interview: Summit Fourth of July Rocker
School teacher Ron Albanese will entertain the kids for Summit's July 4th bash. Under the name POLKA DOT! he's been rocking with the kids for the past three years.
Summit Patch got a chance to ask questions of the man who keeps kids rocking during the annual Summit Fourth of July celebration: POLKA DOT!, the King of Kiddie Rock 'n' Roll.
Patch: How long have you been a part of Summit's July 4th festivities?
POLKA DOT!: No one's counting, but this is my fourth year!
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Patch: What's your day job?
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POLKA DOT!: As long as I have been an entertainer, I have been an educator! I teach technology to students in grades 2-7 in Palisades Park.
Patch: What was your first performance in Summit like? How did you become a regular part of this event?
POLKA DOT!: My first public show was actually at the July 4 shindig. I was on stage, waiting for the [Decorated Children’s Bicycle Parade] to completely end, to start my music and comedy thing. Every time I'd step up to the mic, a couple of more kids on bikes would roll down the path. It was funny! After I finally performed, Judith (Director of Community Programs) smiled and said, "We'll be seeing you next year!"
Patch: You also perform at , and at the summer camp. Why do you keep coming back to Summit?
POLKA DOT!: I think what I do as POLKA DOT! fits the overall vibe at Summit's kids' and family events. I really like doing the Fourth of July event because I see many folks who I entertain the year 'round, and I think my musical act is a perfect go-between following the aforementioned two-wheeler exhibition, and The Kootz, who I consider POLKA DOT PALS!
Patch: Do you ever wish you could just kick-back and be with your family on July 4th?
POLKA DOT!: My two kids are often a part of my shows, and come with me on the road. On July 4 we usually hang out in the evening, and if not, there's always the fifth of July!
Patch: What does July 4th mean to you?
POLKA DOT!: I'm pretty strict about POLKA DOT! being an apolitical entity. But, personally, I have to say that this is one of my favorite holidays - even as a child its message was clear: It's OUR day as Americans.
I love being a part of the celebrations and entertaining folks from all walks of life.
Catch The POLKA DOT! Concert for Kids at 10:45a.m. during the at Soldier’s Memorial Field on Wednesday, July 4, 2012.
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