Fireworks, patriotic music and the plaintive wail of a lone trumpeter playing taps capped an Independence Day celebration on Saturday at Point Stadium.
The performance by the Johnstown Symphony Orchestra served as a backdrop for the annual fireworks show that attracted several thousand people.
It’s the 13th year for the July Fourth concert and is the symphony’s 80th year performing.
“I heard it was the best fireworks around,” said Diane Ellis, accompanied by her daughter Alexis, 7, and friend Liza Spangler, 6.
The meaning of the July 4 event wasn’t lost on Alexis.
“It’s American’s birthday,” she said.
Lacia Wilcox of Moxham brought her five children, ages 1 to 8, for the free concert.
“I don’t have to spend money and get to see fireworks,” she said.
The concert featured patriotic tunes, big band selections, polkas and songs by members of the Aubrey Singers.
A barrage of cannon fire from the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in Johnstown accompanied the orchestra’s performance of Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.”
As fireworks burst in the sky, the symphony played marches by John Philip Sousa.
“They’re nice colors,” said Desiree Waldron, 10, who sat with her grandfather.
Sarah Mackel, 10, who sat with her grandparents, said on July 4 we show respect for those in the service.
Maestro Istvan Jaray urged the audience to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation.
The sentiment was echoed by many in the stands.
“It’s important to remember the people who fought for our Independence,” said Kate Rychak,
17, a Richland High School graduate.
“It’s America having Independence and freedom,” added Namita Gallo, 8, of Johnstown.
“Every community deserves to have an Independence Day celebration,” said Patricia Hofscher, symphony executive director.
“It’s important for the symphony to give back to the community and we want the community to support the symphony,” she said.
Local News
Patriotic party: City celebrates with concert, fireworks
- Local News
-
-
Proposed bill would expand use of traffic-light cameras
Some call it the hand of “big brother,” others are convinced cameras at signal lights would be effective in curbing red-light runners and ultimately saving lives.
-
Minister's trial date set
An issue has been resolved over the report from an examination of a girl allegedly taken by her mother to a Bedford motel to have sex with a traveling minister, clearing the way for a trial.
-
AP: Almost half of new veterans seek disability
America’s newest veterans are filing for disability benefits at a historic rate, claiming to be the most medically and mentally troubled generation of former troops the nation has ever seen.
-
Geistown beginning crime watch program
Residents will patrol Geistown streets in the coming weeks as part of a community watch program.
-
Persons of the Week: Nanty Glo vets will remember fallen comrades
Michael Kurtz, Tom Kasecky and Steve Kasecky will be among members of the Loy A. Douglass Post 3489 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Nanty Glo who will be honoring fallen veterans today, Memorial Day.
-
AG candidates face potential conflicts of interest
Both candidates for Pennsylvania attorney general have family ties that could pose a conflict of interest for the one who is elected as the state’s next chief legal officer.
-
Lawmakers: Capitol rallies unpersuasive
Nancy Richey stepped to the podium with a microphone at the Capitol rotunda with the hope that the right people would hear her message.
-
Richland closer to new chief
The search for Richland’s next police chief is winding down.
-
In brief: Thunderstorm downs trees, knocks out power
A late Sunday afternoon thunderstorm brought high winds, hard rain and hail to the Cambria-Somerset region.
- District Deaths May 28, 2012
- More Local News Headlines
-


