On Friday, August 20, 2004 the city of Coatesville, Pennsylvania came out for a community party hosted by one of their favorite citizens – Rip Hamilton. The theme for this year’s celebration was “Coatesville For Life”. Rip is now a World Champion NBA star as a member of the 2004 NBA Champion Detroit Pistons, but he is more than a champion to his hometown of Coatesville, Pennsylvania.

Each year Rip hosts the “Rip City Celebration” in his hometown. It’s a time to bring more love, caring and togetherness to his beloved hometown. Rip throws an outdoor barbecue picnic with lots of fun and games for the entire community. Everything throughout the day is free, compliments of Coatesville’s Pride, Rip Hamilton.

The day included barbecue chicken, ribs, fried fish, potatoes, corn, hamburgers and hot dogs for all! It’s a day focused on the children of Coatesville. Rip hosted a “Read to Achieve” event in the town’s public library. Each child received a free t-shirt, which Rip autographed throughout the day. There was a three-on-three basketball tournament for all age groups with trophies awarded by Rip at the end of the day. Prizes include many free bicycles, trophies as well as numerous cash awards. Music and dance filled the day, along with just wonderful, caring and happy community feelings.

Though it was a hot and humid day, everyone, from the very young to the elder citizens of this community, enjoyed being together outdoors, renewing old friendships and sharing in the pride of calling Rip Hamilton a “favorite son” of Coatesville.

Thanks to Rip Hamilton for a wonderful day for the city of Coatesville, PA! Remember, as Rip recently said, “Philadelphia is 40 miles east of Coatesville”.

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