Monson canceled its Summerfest celebration as a result of the damage left by the June 1 tornado.
Fireworks are seen over Springfield during last year's Fourth of July festivities.SPRINGFIELD – While the city continues to recover from a tornado two weeks ago, the sponsors of the annual Fourth of July celebration said Wednesday that plans remain in place for this year’s fireworks and festivities, with the event seen by some as more important than ever.
During a press conference held at Riverfront Park, representatives of Spirit of Springfield, city officials, and business leaders said that “Star Spangled Springfield” is set for July 4, with Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. (MassMutal) serving as the lead sponsor for the sixth consecutive year.
“We are very pleased to continue the tradition this year, even more than ever, because of the blow Springfield took a couple of weeks ago,” said John Chandler, chief marketing officer for MassMutual. “It’s a chance for the community to rally and show its pride.”
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno said the July 4 festivities will be a “morale boost,” and “a shot in the arm” for Springfield. It coincides with the city’s 375th anniversary celebration and MassMutual’s 160th year in Springfield.
“More than ever, now, we need this morale boost to celebrate the resolve of our human spirit,” Sarno said.
Chandler said MassMutual shares the city’s commitment to rebuild Springfield in the aftermath of the June 1 tornado, and said the words “Spirit of Springfield,” are reflective of the city’s resolve.
In Monson, the annual Summerfest celebration will not be held this year due to serious tornado damage. The event has featured a downtown parade, music, food and fireworks.
The event will return in 2012, officials said.
In Springfield, the festivities will start at 7:30 p.m., in Riverfront Park’s festival field. It will feature a performance by Dan Kane’s Rising Stars.
A 20-minute Fireworks by Grucci display begins at 9:30 p.m. from the nearby Memorial Bridge.
The Rising Stars will feature 150 children, ages 6 to 15, performing patriotic, pop, Broadway and country music.
The tornado damaged Riverfront Park including knocked down trees and branches, but much of the downed trees and debris was being removed this week by the Park Department in advance of July 4, officials said.
Spirit of Springfield presents “Star Spangled Springfield” each year.
Judith A. Matt, president of Spirit of Springfield, said a look at the park on Monday raised some initial concerns, including a sidewalk area being blocked, but the area has been cleaned and the access and view are unobstructed.
In addition to MassMutual as the lead sponsor, the festivities are supported by Tower Square, The Republican, WWLP-22News, Mix 93.1 FM, the Springfield Parking Authority, Elegant Affairs, Michael’s Party Rentals, 90 Meat Outlet, Charlie Arment Trucking, Joseph Freedman Co., United Tractor Trailer School, the city, and others.
Matt said roughly 150,000 people are expected to view the fireworks from around the region, including those that come to the riverfront.
Some power was lost on the riverfront, and auxilliary power and lighting will be brought in, Matt said.
Others who were present for the announcement were: representatives of the Police and Fire departments; City Councilor Kateri B. Walsh; Spririt of Springfield representatives, and other sponsors and supporters.