- Last Updated on Friday, 01 August 2014 01:40
By Jill Brown
The fourth annual "Celebrate America" festivity, held on July 19 from noon – 10 p.m. at the Boat Launch in Monessen, was sponsored by the American Medical Community Foundation. The event featured many festivities and activities, bringing people together in fellowship and paying tribute to our service people.
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| Ron Chromulak and Senator Tim Solobay spoke at "Celebrate America." Chromulak, Chairman of Monessen Veteran's Council, put together the program honoring the veterans for "Celebrate America." |
First of the day was a program which honored the veterans, complete with uniformed soldiers lined in a row, and even the rain did not deter the importance. It began with a song by Jim "Sputzy" Sparacino, who sang "America the Beautiful."
Ron Chromulak, Chairman of Monessen Veteran's Council and in charge of the procession, first recognized the mayor, and then Senator Solobay spoke. Chromulak took a moment of silence to remember those in the service who have passed. Shots were fired and 'Taps' was played, followed by the releasing of doves.
Chromulak said, "It's occasions like this when we're so proud of what the veterans have done for us. Today we gather here to show our appreciation to men and women who have served."
Vets were recognized with plaques awarded during the service. It was a proud day for those honored.
Meanwhile, a variety of booths contained other festival-related activities, including a duck pond game, a bake sale, and a food booth from the Pasta Shoppe. The Monessen Snack Squad, Just a Tavern, Rebel Legion- a Star Wars Costuming Org., and The Petting Zoo were also present.
Later, there were professional wrestling matches and musical entertainment to enjoy. Fireworks concluded the evening and were breathtaking, even for a rainy night.
