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Travolta pays visit to fair

By Kelsey Klerowski
Correspondent
Published: October 10, 2008

TOPSFIELD — America's oldest fair was paid a visit by one of Hollywood's biggest stars yesterday morning.

Actor John Travolta was at the Topsfield Fair, but he kept a low profile.

"We understand that he's here with his children," said Sally O'Maley, the head of public relations for the fair. "But no one has seen him."

According to O'Maley, Travolta's visit was a surprise even to her. She, along with many others, first heard about the planned visit yesterday morning when it was announced on the radio.

"Kiss 108 had it on this morning," she said. After that, her phone was bombarded with calls from patrons who wanted to know if the rumor was true.

Police knew about Travolta's presence on the grounds but were not requested to assist the actor, Patrolman Robert Cahill said.

"He hasn't asked us to do anything," Cahill said.

The theme song to "Welcome Back, Kotter" — the TV show in which Travolta starred in the 1970s — was played for the crowds over the loudspeaker, and some took it as a sign to fair officials announcing Travolta's arrival. O'Maley said that was not the case, but it was probably played in honor of Travolta being there.

Though she didn't get to see the actor, O'Maley's only wish was, "If he came, I hope he had a good time."