Many of you who know me will attest to the fact that I am proud to be a mother, an Italian American, a Catholic, a wife, a sister and a friend and at different times many other 'proud to be's” But after this past week I am adding one more to my list, right up at the top and that is "Proud to be an American."

 

We certainly had a long Fourth of July weekend holiday this year and that made it easy for us to attend a lot of events and especially to view the fireworks. The fireworks bring out the kid in me and I try to attend as many as I can; the only bad thing is that they seem to be so late and at my age it seems I cannot stay awake, but I sure try.

 

I cannot find adequate words to express how impressed I was with the Celebrate America featuring the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra which was made possible in part by the Barbara B. Highland fund for the Arts and support from other sponsors. It was held at the Clarksburg City Park Amp.  The Cultural Foundation of Harrison County was also instrumental in getting this event for us. The conductor was Andre Raphel The special guest vocalist was Rachel Potter who performed Broadway hits and country music hits.  She sang two of my very favorites God Bless the USA and Over the Rainbow.  The orchestra played such patriotic hits as the Star Spangled Banner, God Bless America, Country Roads and ended with the Stars and Stripes Forever. 

 

Sousa's wonderful marches added so much to the program. During the program artist, Rachel Rice created an abstract painting during the first half of the musical program and the painting will be on display at different locations for the public to view.  We will keep you updated on the locations. Following the concert a fireworks display was presented.

 

We were encouraged to sing along, which I did and I almost felt like getting up and marching during Sousa's pieces.  I was so impressed when a bus pulled up with veterans who were taken to the front of the stage to enjoy the program.  All veterans of the different branches of service were introduced to the audience.

 

I came away from this performance feeling very elated that I am an American and proud to be one. Mark your calendars for next year and be sure not to miss this event.  I thank the planners and the sponsors.

 

A reminder that the Progressive Women's Association will be presenting Americana Music Weekend at the Uptown Event Center on July 22 and 23.  The Mavens will be on Friday with American Country and Western Music and Todd Burge Band will be the opening act.  On Saturday there will be the Billy Price Band with Blues and Soul with the opening act being the Annie Neeley Band. This event is being sponsored by the Barbara B. Highland Arts Fund and the Harrison County Commission. For information and tickets call Elinda at (304) 624-6881.

 

Remember there will be a Rummage Sale at the PWA on August 3 and 4.  Please stop by and if you would like to make donations drop them off at the Uptown Event Center at 305 Washington Avenue.

 

The Harrison County Commission is still sponsoring the Tunes at Noon on Friday on the Court House Plaza.  The PWA will have lunch for sale on the Plaza, so make plans to support this event every Friday during the summer. Remember to attend some of the fairs and festivals in the area. Information is available at the Greater Clarksburg Convention and Visitors Bureau.

 

Have a safe summer and until next week "Now You Have Heard It through The Grapevine."