By Carol McCracken (Post # 460)

Several years ago Robert Moody had the pleasure of watching the Fourth of July Fireworks from a boat in Casco Bay off the Eastern Promenade. All that was missing was some wonderful music, Moody said earlier this week at a news conference on Cutter Street near the Eastern Promenade. In the meantime, Moody has become conductor of the Portland Symphony Orchestra and that gap just got filled. It was announced at the press conference that this year’s celebration will be resplendent with a two-hour, PSO pre-concert – featuring The 1812 Overture.

In his introductory remarks, Mayor Nick Mavadones, recalled how the proposed budget for the new fiscal year, beginning July 1st did not contain the necessary funds to finance this popular annual celebration. “An appeal was made for members of the public to step forward and support the event and in a true testament of civic pride that call was answered by The Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram, Quirk Chevrolet, Wright Express and the Maine Red Claws,” the Mayor said.

Participants at the press conference credit Jon Jennings, CEO, of the Maine Red Claws with initiating the enhancement of the July 4th Stars and Stripes Spectacular with concert by the Portland Symphony Orchestra. Jennings said that it was the work of thie aforementioned group that made it come true. He said that expenses associated with the PSO concert will be funded by individuals. People can contribute to it by visiting wwwjuly4thportland.org. It is hoped that the “Patriotic Pops” will become a new tradition in the annual Fourth of July Fireworks on the Hill.

Moody said that on June 2nd he’ll announce the full musical program for the PSO’s “Patriotic Pops.”