231st Bristol Fourth of July Celebration

A publication of East Bay Newspapers

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From the Town Administrator

TOWN OF BRISTOL, RHODE ISLAND OFFICE OF TOWN ADMINISTRATOR

ANTONIO TEIXEIRA, TOWN ADMINISTRATOR July 2016 Greetings and Happy Fourth of July!

Welcome all to America's Greatest Independence Day celebration!

Bristol residents open their arms, hearts and homes for the 231st year to celebrate the oldest running celebration in the entire U.S.A. Every year, we are honored and proud to put our best foot forward in preparation for Bristol's Fourth of July holiday.

The patriotism and volunteerism exemplified in Bristol is unsurpassed anywhere. Bristol is known to be the most patriotic town in America, and that is evident by the display of our nation's colors yearround. Bristol has a rich historic background, and its beauty provides the backdrop for a grandiose Firemen's and Military Parade.

I ask that you join me in remembering the patriots whose sacrifices enable us to celebrate our Freedom. Also, please take a moment to thank those who are working to ensure that we have a safe and enjoyable holiday — police officers, volunteer fire and rescue personnel, employees of the department of Public Works, and all other municipal workers. Finally, the members of the Fourth of July Committee are applauded for all of their efforts to sustain a unique piece of Bristol history.

A happy, safe Fourth of July to all! God Bless!

Antonio A. Teixeira Bristol Town Administrator

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From the Fourth of July Committee Chairman Donna Falcoa GENERAL CHAIRMAN

Fran O’Donnell VICE CHAIRWOMAN

Dudley Hallagan TREASURER

Deb Rainey RECORDING SECRETARY

Maria Ferreira CORRESPONDING SECRETARY

BRISTOL FOURTH OF JULY COMMITTEE 1776 July 2016

Dear Bristol Residents and Visitors: I cannot believe that the Fourth of July, our nation’s celebration of Independence Day, is right around the corner. For our beautiful Town of Bristol, this year will be our 231st celebration. This is an amazing tradition that everyone who lives in Bristol is extremely proud of. We take very seriously the fact that we host the oldest, continuous Fourth of July celebration in the country.

I would like to congratulate this year’s Chief Marshal, Herculano S. “Okie” Falcoa, on this welldeserved honor. I wish from the bottom of my heart that you and our family and friends enjoy an experience that we will never forget.

I would like to thank all of the men and women who have served and who are currently serving in our country’s Armed Forces. Without each of you, we would not be able to enjoy the independence that we all know and love.

I would be remiss if I did not once again thank the men and women of the Bristol Police Department, Bristol Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services, the Department of Public Works, our Town Administrator, the members of our Town Council, and last, but certainly not least, the members of the Bristol Fourth of July Committee. Without each and every one of these individuals, our grand celebration would never be possible.

To all of our residents and visitors, please join us at all of our upcoming events leading up to the grand finale, the Fourth of July Parade. During these upcoming weeks, please visit our local restaurants, shops, historical sites, and galleries, who are an essential part of our beautiful town.

I want to wish all of our residents and visitors a very safe and happy Fourth of July.

Sincerely,

Donna Falcoa General Chairman

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Index Chief Marshal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Patriotic Speaker . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Miss & Little Miss Fourth of July . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Button Contest Winners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Fourth of July Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Mary Lou Palumbo . . . . . . . . . . .22 Hattie Brown Award Winner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Visiting Ship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Family of Volunteers . . . . . . . . .26 Summer Music Preview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Fallen Heroes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Concert Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Blue Star Mothers . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . .38

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Herculano “Okie” S. Falcoa is this year’s Parade Chief Marshal

BY MANUEL C. “MANNY” CORREIRA

In the beautiful seaside town of Bristol where nicknames are as popular as its annual Fourth of July Celebration, Herculano S. Falcoa is ready to live the dream of a lifetime.

This past April 13, Mr. Falcoa, better known as “Okie” to family and friends, was selected Chief Marshal of the 231st Bristol Fourth of July Celebration, the highest honor that can be bestowed on a native Bristolian. And, to make this such a notable event, Okie received the honor

PHOTO BY RICHARD W. DIONNE

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JR.

directly from his wife, Donna, current chairman of the Bristol Fourth of July Committee.

“I couldn’t be happier,” said Okie, the 78-year old longtime member of the Bristol Fire Dept. “I’m over-excited. I feel great. My parents would have been proud.”

Donna Falcoa had no reservations in picking her husband for this year’s honor. For what he’s done in the Bristol community over the years, especially from a volunteer standpoint, it was a no-brainer.

“He was my first and only choice,” she admitted. “I’m so excited for him. He’s my best friend and soul mate, and, he’s the best damn nurse I’ve ever had. I’m so excited for him. He’s just a terrific guy. I’ll be marching right along with him this year.”

Admittedly, Okie, who has dedicated his life to helping others, young and old, never dreamed he’d be in this position.

“I never thought I’d get an honor like this,” he said. “I love helping people, especially kids, and keeping them out of trouble.”

A 1957 graduate of the former Colt Memorial High School, Okie was a standout football player for former coach Ralph Nash during the mid-1950s.

“He taught me so much,” said Okie, who played center on offense, and middle linebacker and tackle on defense against some of the toughest Class C teams during that era.

“Coach Nash was one of my idols, along with my former Fire Department friends Manny Vieira and Edward “Rubber” Borges. If they were alive today, they’d all be in this parade with me.”

Okie was an All-Division selection in 1956, and was inducted into the Bristol Athletic Hall of Fame in 1993. He’s been a member of the Bristol Athletic Hall of Fame Committee since 1997.

In 1962, Okie co-founded the Bristol Midget Football League and was coach of the Hurricanes team for many years. As a testament to his dedication to the Bristol youth

he coached, many of those young players still address him as “Coach” today. He also served as a baseball coach in the King Philip Little League. Today, Okie spends a lot of time cheering for his two favorite sports teams…the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots.

Okie served in Battery C of the RI National Guard for eight years and has been a member of Amvets Post RI-0037 since Dec. 4, 2001.

Okie is also proud of his dedicated service to the Bristol Volunteer Fire Dept. He is a life member of the Eveready Fire & Hose Co. No. 2, which he joined on April 14, 1960.

In 1962 and 1963, he was a member of the Eveready team that was the state water battle champions.

He is a life member of the Bristol Rescue Squad, which he joined in 1961, and went through the ranks, serving as Captain from 1980-1985.

He is a life member of the Bristol Firemen’s Memorial and Welfare Committee, which he joined in 1985, and served as chairman in 1996. He is a life member of the Bristol Fire Police, which he joined in 1995; a life member of Engine 4 (and still volunteers every year at their annual clam boil); and is an honorary member of the Hydraulion Fire & Hose Co. No. 1.

Okie also volunteered his cooking talents for many years to the Ladies Auxiliary of the Bristol Volunteer Fire Dept. at their annual May Breakfast and other fundraising efforts they sponsored.

He has been a member of the Bristol County Lodge of Elks #1860 since 1978 and served as a Trustee of the Lodge for many years. He was Assistant Grand Esquire for the Rhode Island East Suite in 1990 and 1991. In 2007, he received the Grand Exalted Ruler’s Outstanding Service Commendation for his exceptional contributions to his Lodge and his community.

As a member of the Elks, Okie cofounded the Thanksgiving Food Baskets initiative for the needy in the East Bay area which has grown from 40 baskets to over 400 baskets

today. He is the “bake master” for their scholarship clam boils, and is involved in the Veterans Day at the Elks cooking chowder, clam cakes, and stuffies for residents of the Rhode Island Veterans Home, who are treated to an afternoon at the Elks. He has and continues to serve on many of the Elks’ committees and fundraisers.

Okie served as a member of the Bristol Christmas Festival Committee, which he joined in 1998. In 2000, he was named the Christmas Festival Committee’s “Spirit of Christmas” Award winner and Grand Marshal of the Bristol Christmas Festival Celebration along with his wife, Donna. According to then Christmas Festival Chairman A. William “Bill” Josephs, “Okie gives new meaning to the phrase ‘community service.’ He is and continues to be the ‘consummate volunteer.’ He has spent countless hours giving unselfishly of his time to anyone who asks, to any worthwhile cause—to any person, group, or organization in need.”

Fourth of July has always been a special time of year for the Falcoas.

Okie has been a member of the Bristol Fourth of July Committee since 1989, and in 2007, he and his wife were honored as Civilian Aides to Parade Chief Marshal Manuel C. “Manny” Correira. The following year, Okie received the Committee’s Hattie Brown Memorial Award in recognition of his outstanding community service. He also works on many Fourth of July fund-raising events and subcommittees.

A past member of the Bristol Substance Abuse Prevention Task Force, Okie was also named Honorary Rotarian for 2005-2006.

He has volunteered to cook for the Bristol Rotary Club at several clam boils and is always there when you need him. He has also volunteered his time for the Mt. Hope High School Marching Band at a macaroni supper fundraiser to raise funds for their band trips; for Extension School of Dance at a macaroni supper fundraiser; for the FOURTH OF JULY

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Warren Rescue Squad at various fund-raising events, and for the La Bella Sicilia Society at their clam boils.

Being named the 2016 Bristol Fourth of July Chief Marshal wasn’t Okie’s only major achievement. In 2008, as previously mentioned, he was selected the recipient of the Fourth of July Committee’s Hattie Brown Award, which is presented to a worthy Bristolian who has demonstrated outstanding community service. He also was named the recipient of the Vicky Van Voast Memorial Award by the Bristol Fire Dept. Ladies’ Auxiliary in 2013 for his dedication, community spirit, and volunteerism to the Bristol Fire.

Dept.

Born on Bristol on Jan. 8, 1938, Okie is the son of the late Manuel and Mary (Almeida) Falcoa. He has two daughters, Susan Falco, and Laurie Mulgrew, and grandson, Patrick Mulgrew, of Hilton Head, S.C. He also has two brothers, Manuel Sousa of Swansea, Ma., and Raymond Falcoa Sr. of Bristol. He retired in April 2002 from Triangle Wire & Cable after 42 years of service. He currently works part-time for the George C. Lima Funeral Home in Bristol and the W. Raymond Watson Funeral Home in Riverside. He is a member of St. Elizabeth Church and works on multiple parish activities.

Okie and his wife reside at 363 Wood Street, along with their lovable dog, Sam. With parade day fast approaching,

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PHOTO BY RICHARD W. DIONNE

JR.

Okie and Donna Falcoa pose for a photo in their hime with their Shih Tzu, Sam.

Okie knows he’ll be in for the thrill of a lifetime.

“I’ve only marched in the parade three or four times in the past,” he noted. “Most of the time, I was with Rescue, or working with members of the Fourth of July Committee at the Reviewing Stand. This is going to be totally different now. I know I’ll get emotional when I first start walking down Hope Street. It’ll be special.”

Okie will be joined in the line of March in the Chief Marshal’s Division with his wife, Donna; Chief of Staff, Raymond “Chucky” Falcoa Jr.; and Chief Aides Manuel Sousa, Raymond Falcoa Sr., Susan Falco, Laurie Mulgrew and Patrick

Mulgrew.

Obviously, Okie Falcoa would love to have one of those picture-perfect warm, summer days to stroll down the famous 2 and 1/2–mile red, white and blue-striped parade route.

“But, it really doesn’t matter what the weather will be,” he confessed.

“I’m going to enjoy the moment with my family and friends. This will be such a memorable day for me.”

As someone pointed out recently, “Okie Falcoa is a man of a few words, but a man of many good deeds.” The culmination of all his unselfish work comes Fourth of July morning. The crowd will surely applaud loudly for its native son.

Chief Marshal

THEY LEAD THE PARADE – CHIEF MARSHALS 1826 Col. Giles Luther 1826-1834 No record 1834 Col. Arnold H. Bush 1835 Col John Gladding 1836 Col. Nathaniel Fales 1837 No Parade 1838 Col. Nathaniel Fales 1839 No Parade 1840 No Parade 1840 Martin Bennett, Esq. 1841-1843 No Parade 1844 W.H.S. Bayley 1845 David S. Coit, Esq. 1846 John Adams, Esq. 1847 John Adams, Esq. 1848 John Adams, Esq. 1849 Col. John Gladding 1850 James F. D’Wolf, Esq. 1851 James F. D’Wolf, Esq. 1852 James F. D’Wolf, Esq. 1853 James F. D’Wolf, Esq. 1854 Maj. Ambrose Burnside 1855 Charles Sherry, Jr., Esq. 1856 James H. West, Esq. 1857 Charles Sherry, Jr. 1858 Alexander D’W. Perry 1859 Capt. John Y. Lawless 1860 James D’W. Perry, Jr. 1861 Charles Sherry, Jr. 1862 Walter C. Barclay 1863 Charles F. Page 1864 Lt. Charles Gibson 1865 James DeW. Perry, Esq. 1866 Gen. Lewis Richmond 1867 Lt. William J. Bradford 1868 William B. D’Wolf 1869 Maj. Raymond H. Perry 1870 Mark A. D’Wolf, Esq. 1871 Col. Samuel P. Colt 1872 Capt. Allen G. Wright 1873 Isaac F. Williams 1874 No Parade 1875 Col. Samuel P. Colt 1876 George T. French, Esq. 1877 Maj Raymond H. Perry 1878 Col. Raymond H. Perry 1879 Col. Samuel P. Colt

1880 Col. Richard B. Franklin 1881 William T.C. Wardwell 1882 Col. Samuel P. Colt 1883 J. Howard Manchester 1884 Dr. George A. Pike 1885 Col. George O. Eddy 1886 J. Howard Manchester 1887 Capt. John H. Morrissey 1888 Isaac F. Williams 1889 Gilbert Wilson 1890 Col. Richard B. Franklin 1891 J. Howard Manchester 1892 H. Maitland Gibson 1893 John J. Christie 1894 H. Maitland Gibson 1895 Henry M. Thompson 1896 Charles F. Chase 1897 Charles F. Chase 1898 Charles F. Chase 1899 Dr. W. Fred Williams 1900 Dr. W. Fred Williams 1901 L. Maitland Minsher 1902 L. Maitland Minsher 1903 L. Maitland Minsher 1904 Benjamin L. Hall 1905 Wallis E. Howe 1906 Peter C.R. Morris 1907 Charles B. Rockwell 1908 George W. Warren 1909 Wallis E. Howe 1910 Wendell R. Davis 1911 Col. Arthur B. Spink 1912 Howard W. Church 1913 Capt. W.C. Metcalf 1914 Capt. W.C. Metcalf 1915 Capt. W.C. Metcalf 1916 Rudolph Haffenreffer, Jr. 1917 Col. Andrew W. Anthony 1918 Col. Harold J. Gross 1919 Col. Andrew W. Anthony 1920 Col. L.H. Callan 1921 Capt. Edward L. Leahy 1922 W. Fred Williams, Jr. 1923 Charles B. Rockwell, Jr. 1924 James W. Salisbury 1925 James F. Lavender 1926 Henry Wood

1927 Lt. Bertram W. Wall 1928 Capt. Edward L. Leahy 1929 T. Clyde Foster 1930 W. Fred Williams, Jr. 1931 Carl W. Haffenreffer 1932 Dr. John H. Morrissey 1933 Roswell C. Colt 1934 Col. Samuel A. Hall 1935 Col. A.M. Merriman 1936 John W. Church 1937 Col. M.A. Cheesman 1938 George M. Cady 1939 Stanley E. Friswell 1940 Edward J. Fitzgerald 1941 John W. Haley 1942 William L. Serbst 1943 Stephen W. Hopkins 1944 J. Francis Connell 1945 Roswell S. Bosworth 1946 The. Rev. Anthony R. Parshley 1947 R. Adm. Gilbert Hoover 1948 Dr. Samuel D. Clark 1949 Capt. Ray’d J. Makowsky 1950 Harold Church Paull 1951 Gov. Dennis J. Roberts 1952 Dr. C. Paul Bruno 1953 John H. Tuplin 1954 Mathias Brito 1955 George R. Fish 1956 Col. E.S. McMillan 1957 M. Theresa Donovan 1958 Lt. Cmdr. J.G.A. Riccio 1959 U.S. Sen. Theo. F. Green 1960 William H. Smith 1961 Clinton J. Pearson 1962 John Andrade 1963 R.F. Haffenreffer, III 1964 Anthony Pinheiro 1965 Anthony T. Campagna 1966 Caesar Brito 1967 Edward G. Medeiros 1968 Salvator V. Gianola 1969 Dr. Victor P. DeMedeiros 1970 Dr. Ralph E. Gauvey 1971 Gaetano D. Parella 1972 Anthony A. Nunes 1973 John P. Andrade

1974 James J. Velleca, Jr. 1975 Dr. Manuel L. daSilva 1976 Anthony R. Berretto 1977 Frank D. Balzano 1978 Richard Alegria 1979 Dr. Joseph Perroni 1980 Dr. Anthony Bernardo 1981 Roswell S. Bosworth, Jr. 1982 Joseph M. Brito 1983 Peter A. Quito 1984 Halsey C. Herreshoff 1985 Manuel Joseph and Anthony Januario 1986 Joan Doyle Roth 1987 Seraphin DaPonte 1988 Frederico Pacheco 1989 Marie and Robert Rondeau 1990 Kenneth J. Marshall 1991 Anthony Agatiello 1992 Santo “Sam” Mascena 1993 Thomas Byrnes 1994 Gerry and Mickie MacNeill 1995 Joseph and Mary Parella 1996 Orlando J. Bisbano 1997 Richard Ruggiero 1998 John R. Partington 1999 Hildeberto (Herbie) Moitoso 2000 Anthony Iasiello 2001 Diane C. Mederos 2002 Jerome Donovan 2003 Raymond Cordeiro and Oryann Lima 2004 Joseph and Mary Lero 2005 Col. Russell S. Serpa 2006 Santa W. “Sandy” Matrone 2007 Manuel C. “Manny” Correira 2008 Edward Castro 2009 Joseph Coelho Sr. and Joseph Coelho Jr. 2010 S. Dudley Hallagan Jr. 2011 Joseph M. Brito Jr. and Elizabeth “Betty” Brito 2012 Antonio A. “Tony” Teixeira 2013 Louis P. Cirillo 2014 David E. Barboza 2015 Raymond E. Gallison Jr 2016 Herculano S. Falcoa

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2016 PATRIOTIC SPEAKER

ROBERT G.

BY PATRICK LUCE

A

former state Supreme Court Justice and financial savior of a desperate Rhode Island city will deliver the keynote address before the Bristol 4th of July Parade this year.

Retired Justice Robert G. Flanders, Jr. has been named the Patriotic Speaker for 2016 and will highlight the annual Patriotic Exercises at the Colt School on Hope Street on July 4.

No stranger to Bristol or the 4th of July Parade, Justice Flanders plans to spend his time talking about what it means to be patriotic and how Americans can find patriotism amidst the sea of negativity punctuating this year’s presidential election campaign.

“A lot of people are put off by what passes for public debate these days. There’s just so much negativity,” Justice Flanders said. “How do 12

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FLANDERS, JR. you be patriotic in that atmosphere?”

A graduate of Brown University and Harvard Law School, Justice Flanders is now a partner in the Providence law firm of Hinckley Allen & Snyder, where he has chaired the firm’s business litigation and municipal restructuring practice groups.

For eight years, he served as an associate justice of the Rhode Island Supreme Court (the state’s highest court). He wrote more than 400 legal opinions in his years on the court from 1996-2004, before returning to private practice.

Among his most impactful decisions dealt with the separation of governmental powers, and whether members of the legislative branch can serve on or appoint members to executive boards and committees, specifically the Lottery

Commission. While he was in the minority is judging legislators cannot sit on the committees, his opinion was later validated when Rhode Island voters amended the state Constitution to bar them from doing so.

The freedom to disagree and state one’s opinion in the face of opposition is among the chief benefits of being an American, he said.

“One of the things that makes us American is the ability to speak our minds,” Justice Flanders said. “We have the freedom of speech, to run for office, to speak our minds without having to kowtow to others’ beliefs. Even those turned off by what they hear can speak out, and that’s a good thing in the long run.”

Despite leaving the court, Justice Flanders’ service to the community was not over. He served as chairman of the state Board of Regents

for Elementary and Secondary Education until 2011. That same year, he was tabbed to lead Rhode Island’s smallest city through dark financial times. Then-Gov. Lincoln Chafee appointed Justice Flanders the state receiver for the troubled city of Central Falls. He led the city through a Chapter 9 bankruptcy reorganization that has eliminated a $6 million operating deficit as part of a five-year plan projected to save the city and its taxpayers $30 million.

Returning to private practice, Justice Flanders's has focused on health care issues, complex litigation, government investigations,

municipal restructuring, and arbitration issues for individuals, businesses, employers and governmental entities.

He has taught constitutional law at Brown and at Roger Williams Law School, and municipal insolvency law at the Yale School of Management. He is a regular legal commentator on WPRO’s morning news show with host Gene Valicenti.

While a student at Brown, Justice Flanders was a student-athlete who was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, captained the baseball team and quarterbacked the football team. He set the Brown, Ivy League, and Yale Bowl

records for the longest run from scrimmage (94 yards against Yale in 1968).

Justice Flanders was able to parlay his college athletic prowess into a brief professional career, having been drafted by the Detroit Tigers while he was a student at Harvard Law School. He played professional baseball for the Tigers organization during the summer months.

Justice Flanders is now an avid tennis player, the father of three grown children, grandfather of 4. He and his wife of 45 years, Ann Irene Flanders, make their home in East Greenwich.

A PROUD HISTORY OF PATRIOTIC SPEAKERS 1785-1814 The Rev. Dr. Henry Wight

1876 The Rev. James D’Wolf Perry

1912 The Hon. Geo. O’Shaunnessy

1947 U.S. Sen. J.H. McCrath

1981 Robert L. daC. Bernard

1815 The Rev. Barnabas Bates

1877 The Hon. Francis Brinley

1913 The Rev. A. Clark McGilton

1948 Vice Adm. John D. Price, USN

1982 Dr. William Crausman

1816-1819 The Rev. Dr. Henry Wight

1878 LeBaron B. Colt Esq.

1914 Lt. Gov. Roswell Burchard

1949 Rear Adm. H.S. Kendall, USN

1983 William Rizzini

1820 Joseph W. Torry, Esq.

1879 The Hon. James C. Collins

1915 The Rev. Jamuel Lindsay

1950 Sen. Edward L. Leahy

1984 Judge Eugene Cochran

1821 Professor John DeWolf

1880 No speaker

1916 Col. H. Anthony Dyer

1951 Gov. Dennis J. Roberts

1985 The Rev. Walter Rudy

1822-1825 The Rev. Dr. Henry Wight

1881 Rev. Edwin F. Jones

1917 M. Louis DeSadeleer

1826 Walter W. Dalton

1882 Col. George T. French

1918 The Hon. LeBaron B. Colt

1827-1835 The Rev. Dr. Henry Wight

1883 Samuel Norris, Jr., Esq

1919 The Rev. F.S. Penfold

1836 J. Russel Bullock

1884 Col. Daniel R. Ballou

1920 Asst. Attorney General

1837 The Rev. Dr. Henry Wight

1885 Gen. Horatio Rogers

1921 Sen. Herbert M. Sherwood

1838 Dr. Silas Holmes

1886 The Hon. Henry J. Coggeshall

1922 The Rev. Luciano R. Capone

1954 Lt. Col. B.W. McLean, USMC

1991 Manuel C. “Manny” Correira

1887 Rev. S. Hamilton Day

1923 Sen. McGrane

1955 Capt. William L. Eagleton

1992 Mario Mancieri

1924 Mrs. Ray Cox Flint

1956 Joseph F. Bruno

1993 William B. Sweeney

1925 The Hon. Leo M. Harlow

1957 Brig. Gen. A.K. Sibley

1994 Richard Simpson

1890 The Rev. W.F. Davis

1926 The Hon. Richard W. Jennings

1958 Judge Robert E. Quinn

1995 Porter A. Halyburton

1891 The Rev. S.D. Moxley

1927 Bishop Louis C. Sanford

1959 Justice J.R. Weisberger

1996 Retired Lt. Col.

1892 Orrin F. Bosworth, Esq.

1928 Attorney Gen. Charles Sisson

1893 Samual Morris, Jr., Esq 1894 The Rev. S.D. Moxley

1929 Asst. Attorney Gen. J.F. Hughes

1895 William F. O’Donnell

1930 The Hon. A.A. Capatosto

1839-1850 No Record 1851 The Rev. J.C. Richmond 1852 The Rev. J.W. Smith 1853 E.P. Whipple, Esq. 1854 Thomas Shepard, Esq. 1855 James T. Brady, Esq.

1888 Samuel Norris, Jr., Esq 1889 Theron H. Carter

& Capt. Richard Visser, USN 1952 Dr. You Chan Yang, Korean ambassador 1953 Hon. John Muccio, U.S. ambassador to Korea

1960 George T. Howe

1986 Roswell S. Bosworth, Jr. 1987 Joseph Janario 1988 Robert Arruda 1989 Joseph Caromile 1990 W. DeWolf Fulton

Anthony D. Nastri, USMC

1961 Sen. John Pastore

1997 Cmdr. Linda Lou Borges Dubois

1962 Sen. Claiborne Pell

1998 Jerome M. Donovan

1963 The Hon. Arthur Carrellas

1999 Frank J. Williams

1964 The Hon. Edward Plunkett

2000 Retired Gen. Michael T. Byrnes

1965 Mort Blender

2001 Anthony Santoro

1966 Monroe E. Toevs

2002 David Foehr

1967 Rear Adm. Means Johnston, Jr., USN

2003 Rear Admiral Barbara McGann

1968 Dennis J. Roberts

2004 Judge Anthony Dennis

1969 Roswell S. Bosworth

2005 Paul Fletcher

1936 Asst. Justice A. Capatosto

1970 Dr. Werner A. Baum

2006 Sen. Jack Reed

1937 John Scanlon

1971 Edward Travers

2007 Dr. Patrick T. Conley

1904 The Rev. J.F. Downing

1938 John W. Haley

1972 Gen. Robert E. Cushman, Jr., USMC

2008 Dr. William F. Bundy

1973 The Hon. J.R. Weisberger

2009 Col. Edward Cyr

1869 John C. Pegram, Esq.

1905 The Rev. Samuel Smith Drury

1939 Gov. W.M. Vanderbilt 1940 The Hon. M.A. Sullivan

1974 Bishop Louis E. Gelineau

2010 Rev. Daniel Barron Randall

1870 The Rev. G.L. Westgate

1906 William A. Kennedy

1941 The Hon. John P. Hartigan

1975 Rear Adm. Lucien Capone, Jr., USN

2011 Retired Brig. Gen. Rick Baccus

1871 The Rev. James P. Lane

1907 Rev. John McVay

1942 Dr. Lucius A. Whipple

1976 The Hon. Joseph Bevilacqua

2012 Ira Magaziner

1872 The Rev. William Miller

1908 Edward Lawrence Leahy

1943 Capt. Gilbert C. Hoover

1977 The Hon. Anthony J. Dennis

2013 RADM Robert O. Wray, Jr.

1873 The Hon. N.F. Dixon, Jr.

1909 James F. Lavander

1944 The Hon. M.A. Sullivan

1978 Brig. Gen. Raymond A. Thomas

2014 MG Kevin R. McBride

1874 LeBaron B. Colt, Esq.

1910 Gov. Aram J. Pothier

1945 Asst. Justice Capatosto

1979 Joseph G. Kinder

2015 Dr. Donald J. Farish

1875 Col. Henry H. Robinson

1911 The Rev. A.C. Larned

1946 Cmdr. Paul Theiss, USN

1980 Louis P. Alfano, Jr.

2016 Robert G. Flanders Jr.

1856 Asa Arnold Esq. 1857 The Rev. Dr. S.K. Sweetman 1858 John Turner, Esq. 1859 Charles Blake, Esq. 1860 The Rev. David H. Ela 1861 Thomas W. Bickness, Esq. 1862 The Hon. Frances Minor 1863 The Rev. S.F. Upham 1864 The Rev. William Stowe 1865 The Hon. Sidney Dean 1866 The Rev. Mark Tafton 1867 The Rev. J.J. Peck 1868 The Rev. George L. Locke

1896 The Rev. A.W. Kingsley

1931 The Hon. M.A. Sullivan

1897 Irving H. Gamwall

1932 The Hon. Ray Rawlings

1898 The Hon. Orrin F. Bosworth

1933 The Hon. Francis B. Condon

1899 Henry W. Hayes

1934 The Hon. Felix Hebert

1900 Lefferts S. Hoffman

1935 The Hon. Alexander G. Churchill

1901 William T. O’Donnell 1902 The Rev. Wilenoir Hood 1903 Col. Frank T. Eastern

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Samantha Golden and Claire Chace are the pageant’s big winners

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The Miss and Little Miss Fourth of July courts include (back row, from left) Nikola Francis, Tiffany Brooks, Samantha Golden, Kristen Couto, Rachel Cloutier, (front row, from left) Lola Silva, Claire Chace and Maeve Riccio.

PHOTOS BY AMY KILEY

BY PATRICK LUCE

The Bristol Fourth of July Committee crowned a new court, naming a new Miss and Little Miss Fourth of July, Memorial Day weekend.

Samantha Golden, 17, daughter of Greg and Tina Golden, was named Miss Fourth of July; and Claire Chace, 9, daughter of Richmond and Nancy Chace, was named Little Miss Fourth of July, during that annual pageant at Mt. Hope High School.

Along with their courts, Ms. Chace and Ms. Golden will preside over this year’s Fourth of July celebration, appearing at frequent events throughout the season. Ms. Golden will be joined by her court, runners-up Tiffany Brooks, Kristen Couto, Nikola Francis and Rachel Cloutier. Ms. Chace will by joined by Lola Silva and Maeve Riccio. Additionally, the contestants voted for Emma Pattie as Miss Congeniality.

Ms. Golden has envisioned winning this title for a long time.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted since I was a little girl,” Ms. Golden said soon after being crowned Saturday. “I’m very surprised! I did it last year and didn’t win. I just tried really hard not to be nervous and focus on myself.”

Ms. Chace is also no stranger to the pageant, having competed

last year and being named second runner-up. She said her experience on stage helped her this year.

“I watched the video from last year and just tried to stay confident,” Ms. Chace said. “This is really big. I’m really excited!”

Both young ladies have an idea what’s in store for them over the next couple months as Bristol prepares for its biggest celebration of the year. The pair and their courts will be making frequent appearances at events all over town.

“One of my friends was on the court last year, so I saw her go through the journey,” Ms. Golden said. “I’m just really excited to be a part of it.”

Each Miss Fourth of July contestant was judged in three categories: private interviews with four judges, poise/appearance, and response to a question on stage. The young ladies walked their catwalk in evening dresses (Miss Fourth) and party dresses (Little Miss) before a nearly packed house in the Mt. Hope High School auditorium.

Each winner and court member received prizes donated by local businesses. Ms. Golden will receive a scholarship donated by the Fourth of July Chief Marshals’ Association.

MISS FOURTHS 1948 1949

Evelyn Lamaire Barbara Ferrara

1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969

Lee Ann Rielly Grace Castro No Contest Frances Marshall Marie Maturi Mary Ann Ventura Roberta Luther Louise Bettencourt Rosalind Matheson Alberta Ann Remieres Edith Duffy Debbie Babbitt Patricia Rielly Lorraine Alfred Gail Rinaldi Marcia Blount Barbara Fields Susan Smith Linda Rhynard Theresa Bisbano

1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980

Pamela White Barbara Tubridy Nancy Caromile Jackie Bilotti Cindy Mello Donna Ferreira Kathy Centazzo Donna Soares Torie Stevens Patricia Troiano Jo Ann Goglia

LITTLE MISS FOURTHS 1997 Ashley Ann Oliveira 1998 Alyssa Luther 1999 Cassandra Lyn Guercia 2000 Shannon Doherty 2001 Kailey Grantham 2002 Niki Jannitto 2003 Samantha Jannitto 2004 Emily Sousa 2005 Makenzie Marshall

1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989

Joanne Moreira Bonnie Brayton Victoria Brett Bethany D’Amico Cheryl Sousa Carol Anguilla Renee Cortellessa Kimberly Coccio Joanne Mello

1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999

Jennifer Faria Laurie Ramos Jennifer Neves Chrissy Beaulieu Jennifer Sousa Andreia Mendonca Sarah Beth Traynor Lisa Dos Anjos Lizabeth Marshall Gia-Maria Handley

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Heidi Squires Eliza Burnham Laura Beth Almeida Courtney Glavin Hilary Motta Ashley Rodrigues Victoria Thomson Nicole Silvia Kaitlyn MacDonough Jennae Paul Kayla Nerone Cassandra Guercia Alexandra Absi Daniela Lopes Carla Braga Jessica Tella Samantha Golden

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Victoria Sousa Andersyn Costa Aurora Faria Abigail Lombardo Jade Lynn Ramos Peyton Perroni Samantha Martins Lily Sarnowski Reyn Ferris Alana Martin Claire Chace

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Forest Rodriguez, winner

Three young Bristol artists create images for the button contest

BY VICTOR PAUL ALVAREZ

It's difficult to sum up Bristol's beloved Fourth of July Parade with a single image. Unless you're a 13-year-old Kickemuit Middle School student who likes to doodle when he's not in school, at lacrosse practice, playing the violin, bass violin, saxophone, piano, or acting in the school's production of "Peter Pan." Where does Forest Rodriguez find the time? Wherever possible. For his hard work and creativity the Bristol Fourth of July Committee chose the eighth-grader's design as the overall winner in the annual button contest. He chose colored pencil's because they give him more control, which he used to conjure an image of a red, white and blue-clad marching band drummer under a crescent of blue stars.

"I chose the drummer for the design because whenever people go to the parade, the most enjoyable things are the bands," Forest said.

"Drums keep the beat of the songs and, without the drums, the songs and people marching would be kind of thrown off the beat. The drums keep the bands going and the parade moving along. Also, a big drum would be able to fit the words required for the button."

Forest has a twin brother, Hunter, who won the con-

WINNING BUTTONS 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000

16

Jennifer Tavares Patricia Martins Patricia Martins Jonathan Martins Filipe Soares Jesse Zawerucka Sam Carreiro Lizabeth Marshall Adrian J. Mascena

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2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Nicole L. Guercia Ava Mascena Kevin Calisto Meghan McMullen Matthew Martins Corianna Mascena Meghan McMullen Jared Souza

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Danielle Dunbar Bowen Drawbridge Hunter Rodriguez Hunter Rodriguez Zoe Fournier-Swire Zoe Fournier-Swire Rachel Mello Forest Rodriguez

test two times. His self-described "very supportive parents" are Dr. Edgardo and Suzanne Rodriguez. Meeting them proves their claim is true. They are supportive parents by any definition.

"My mother really encourages me to just let my creative juices flow," Forest said.

His gratitude for his family is akin to the appreciation he holds for his hometown.

"Bristol is great by itself, but when you add the great community and parade, you can't help but say, "Wow, I'm glad I live here!" The parade gives the community a chance to experience the great things Rhode Island brings. Many people get to see their friends, talk, laugh and just have a great time while enjoying a great show full of music and big floats. The parade and all that goes with it is truly amazing."

The committee chose forest as the winner for grades 6-8 and the overall winner. Abigail Razzino, 10, of Colt Andrews School, is the grades K-5 winner. Marissa Barros, 15, of Mt. Hope high School is the grades 9-12 winner. Each winner received a $50 prize. Forest was awarded an additional $75 as the overall winner. The committee received a total of 49 entries.

"I always enjoy watching the parade. My parents and our family's friends always wake up really early to get a good spot on the parade route. We bring snacks and cheer on the participants as they walk by," Forest said.

"Ever since my first parade, I have always thought that it was a truly great occasion that the community always enjoys."

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2016 FOURTH OF JULY COMMITTEE MEMBERS 2016/2017 Executive Board

Donna Falcoa Fran O’Donnell Dudley Hallagan Deb Rainey Maria Ferreira David Burns Gena Campbell Dick Devault Roger Dubord James Farley Ray Lavey Richard Luiz Donna Marshall Bette Anne Moreira Manny Pasqual Nat Squatrito Judy Squires Donna St. Angelo Jim Tavares Angela Cabral Edward Correia John Daniels Okie Falcoa Frank Fales Chuck MacDonough Gerry Mederos Tony Mederos Patti Nenna Wayne Picard Marisa Rainey Steve Ricci Jerome Squatrito Pat Squatrito Maria Ursini Heidi Vermilyea

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2016/2017 General Committee Richard Alves Ginette Amaral Sarah Amaral Brenda Austin Tony Avila Patricia Baccus Rick Baccus David Barboza Beth Battey Ed Boardman Karren Boardman Kevin Bowen Alice Bradford Kelly Burnett David Burns Deborah Burns Robert Burns Angela Cabral Vicki Cairrao Betsy Cambra Gena Campbell Ann Carey Maria Cesario Donna Chabot Margarida Chaves Daniel Christina Jaclyn Clarke

Daniel Cordeiro Edward Correia Bernice Correira Tiffany Costa Denise Cotta-Fontana John Daniels Diane Davis Charlotte DeMarco Liberal DeOliveira Dick Devault Julie Dollins Roger Dubord Donald Durfee David Enos Donna Falcoa Okie Falcoa Frank Fales James Farley Maria Ferreira Patti Ferreira Patricia Ferrick Lisa Fisher Christina Fontana Dan Fryer Carol Gafford Rick Gauvin Christine Geremia Kasey Geremia Shana Giarrusso Beverly Gilmette Donna Glavin

Madeline Grimo Dudley Hallagan Erich Haslehurst Russell Head Charlotte Josephs William Josephs Neil Kiely Marisol Lagares Ray Lavey John Lawless Don Leach Bryan Leffingwell Melissa Leffingwell Marylou Leocadio Jeanne Linacre Barbara Lindsey Ines Loureiro Richard Luiz Chuck MacDonough Wendy MacDonough Paul Mancieri Donna Marshall Kenneth Marshall Charlotte Martino Michele Martins Reginald McCarthy Wendy McLellan Patricia Medeiros Anthony Mederos Gerald Mederos Tammy Mojkowski

Bette Anne Moreira Gina Moreira Mary Moreira Diane Nelson Patti Nenna Susan Nerone John Noble Anne O’Connell Frances O’Donnell Nancy Oliver Darlene Olson James Palazio Trudy Palazio Alan Palumbo Barbara Palumbo Samantha Palumbo Manny Pasqual Joseph Perry Barbara Peterson Wayne Picard Frances Pray Fran Principe Jeanne Raimondi Deborah Rainey Marisa Rainey Berry Rebello Steven Ricci Elisabeth Ridder Michael Rielly Candie Robillard Elaine Roderick

Rick Roderick Jane Rossmeisl Richard Ruggiero Sandra Ruggiero Patti Ryone Kathleen Sarasin Elizabeth Satterfield William Satterfield Lynn Schultz William Silva Charlotte Silvia Sara Jane Soboleski Ann Soscia Paula Sousa Glen Souza Jerome Squatrito Nat Squatrito Patricia Squatrito Judy Squires Donna St. Angelo James St. Angelo Muriel St. Angelo Jack Sylvester James Tavares Camille Texeira Maria Ursini Manuel Vargas Heidi Vermilyea Mary Williams

BEHIND THE SCENES – FOURTH CHAIRPERSONS 1820: James D’Wolf 1835: J. Babbitt, Jr. 1836: George H. Reynolds 1838: J.M. Gooding 1851-1852: William R. Taylor 1853: C. Easterbrooks 1854: Jacob Babbitt 1855: Charles Sherry, Jr. 1856: William R. Taylor 1857: J. Coggeshall 1858: Joseph B. Burgess 1859: George H. Reynolds 1860: William R. Taylor 1861: William J. Miller 1862-1863: John B. Pierce 1864: T.J. Usher 1865: Joseph L. Gardner 1866-1867: John B. Taylor 1868: E.M. Wardwell 1869-1870: John B. Taylor 1871: Elisha M. Wardwell 1872: Charles A. Greene 1873: John Turner 1874-1875: I.F. Williams 1876: William J. Miller 1877: N.C. Bedell 1878: Samuel P. Colt 1879: Ambrose E. Burnside 1880: Thomas C. Church 1881: Edward Anthony, Jr. 1882: Samuel P. Colt 1883-1884: Elisha M. Wardwell 1885-1886: Edward Anthony

1887: Joseph B. Burgess 1888: Samuel P. Colt 1889: Charles A. Barbour 1890: Eugene A. Rounds 1891: Edwin C. Sparks 1892-1898: Edward Anthony 1899: Frank C. Child 1900-1912: Edward Anthony 1913: Josephus Daniels 1914: Elisha Hibbert 1915: Thomas Goff, Jr. 1916-1919: George L. Drowne, Jr. 1920: Andrew W. Anthony 1921: George L. Drowne, Jr. 1922-1931: Everett Church 1932: Alexander S. Basilevich 1933-1934: Daniel E. Dwyer 1935: GS Pailthorpe 1936: Dr Alfred M. Merriman 1937-1947: James F. Meiggs 1948-1949: Roswell S. Bosworth, Sr. 1950-1952: Roswell S. Bosworth, Jr. 1953: Ralph G. McCaw 1954-1955: Leonard P. Sanford and Norman J. Servant 1956: Frank J. Miserandino and Michael DiLello 1957-1958: Frank J. Miserandino 1959-1960: Francis N. Perry 1961: Ralph H. Lavers 1962-1963: Manuel A. Sousa 1964-1965: Anthony E. Agatiello

Bristol Fourth of July Committee officers (from left to right): General Chairman Donna Falcoa, Vice Chairman Fran O'Donnell, Treasurer Dudley Hallagan, Recording Secretary Deb Rainey, and Corresponding Secretary Maria Ferreira.

1966: Albert Nutini 1967: John Vera 1968-1969: James J. Velleca, Jr. 1970-1971: John R. Partington 1972-1973: Joseph Andrade 1974-1975: Joseph Caromile 1976-1977: John P. Biancuzzo 1978-1979: Gerald Romano 1980-1981: Frank Perry

1982-1983: A. Jeffrey Chase 1984-1985: Manuel Pasqual 1986-1987: James W. Farley 1988-1989: Andrew J. Vorro, III 1990-1991: Elizabeth A. Moreira 1992-1993: Roger Dubord, Jr. 1994-1995: Gena Campbell 1996-1997: Donna Marshall 1998-1999: Richard Luiz

2000-2001: Frances O’Donnell 2002-2003: Donna St. Angelo 2004-2005: Jim Tavares 2006-2007: Nat Squatrito 2008-2009: David A. Burns 2010-2011: Judy Squires 2012-2013: Dick Devault 2014-2015: Ray Lavey 2016-2017: Donna Falcoa

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21

PHOTO BY MANUEL C.

“MANNY”

CORREIRA

Mary Lou Palumbo s love for the Fourth of July has been Yankee Doodle Dandy

BY MANUEL C. “MANNY” CORREIRA

Bristol native Mary Lou Palumbo has certainly come a long way from her days as a wide-eyed youngster in the old Bristol Recreation Department’s summer program at the former Vets Park playground.

She has accomplished so much, and made every Bristolian very proud of her.

Fourth of July is one of the times of the year where she has shined most.

Mary Lou, daughter of George and Adeline Correia of Bristol, has been a magnetic personality serving as the mistress of ceremonies at the Miss/Little Miss Fourth of July Pageant, one of the most popular Fourth of July Celebration events.

“I thoroughly enjoy being a part of the Pageant,” she said. “It’s so much fun. It makes me feel really good. Every girl who enters, in both 22

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categories, is beautiful and special in their own way. They’re all winners, as far as I’m concerned.”

Mary Lou, 62, who has been married to her husband and childhood sweetheart, Gary Palumbo, for 43 years, says she’s served as Pageant mistress of ceremonies a number of times, and it’s still a joy to be a part if it all.

“The Pageant Committee does an exceptional job with these girls,” she noted. “It’s not easy. There’s a lot of work involved putting this show together, and they interact wonderfully with the contestants.”

Fourth of July has always had a special meaning for this vivacious 1972 Bristol High School graduate.

It’s her favorite holiday…plain and simple.

“Even when I was a little girl growing up on St. Elizabeth’s Street, the Fourth of July was always an exciting time in my life,” she

recalled. “When you’re a kid, it’s like waiting for Christmas. Fourth of July is my favorite holiday. How could it not be when you’re from Bristol? As you get older, it’s a big reunion. We see so many of our old friends.”

“I can remember family coming from all over,” she continued. “The clam boils we used to have and my dad playing with the Portuguese Independent Band. We used to get all decked out with a special Fourth of July outfit. It was a big deal. It was so exciting…great times and great memories.”

Members of the Bristol Fourth of July Committee will be the first to tell you how much Mary Lou Palumbo has meant to the Fourth of July Celebration here in town.

“Mary Lou has served as Pageant Mistress of Ceremonies many times and has always given us a resounding ‘yes’ when asked to do so,” said

Bristol Fourth of July Committee past chairman and current Pageant Committee member, Nat Squatrito.

“Being from Bristol and growing up with the Fourth of July Celebration, she brings a sense of ownership to the pageant and it is quite obvious to the audience that she enjoys being there. Despite having received many honors and awards for her work in the broadcasting industry, she is still the same friendly and humble person with whom I graduated from high school.”

He continued, “Having Mary Lou as Mistress of Ceremonies makes the job easier for us. Even though she knows the protocol from having been MC so many times, she always attends one of the pageant rehearsals so as to ensure that everything goes smoothly. She is the quintessential perfectionist.

Another advantage of having Mary Lou as MC is that she can pronounce last names that are common to the Town of Bristol, like ‘Castigliego’ or ‘Annarummo,’ which might be butchered by someone who has never lived in town. All in all, we enjoy having Mary Lou as our pageant MC. She does a tremendous job.”

As Mr. Squatrito alluded to, Mary Lou Palumbo has also made her mark for her work in television and radio in the New England area, as well as nationally on many cable

television networks. She has hosted and produced local news programs, documentaries, live specials and national marketing programs for the Disney Channel, HBO, and Cinemax, to name a few.

She received Emmy nominations as the producer/host of “New England Portrait,” which aired on Rhode Island PBS. Before accepting the position with Rhode Island PBS, she was the Community Programming Manager at Cox Communications, New England that oversees Cox Sports Television. At Cox, she hosted and produced public affairs specials which aired on Cox Sports Television and on cable networks throughout the country.

As the executive producer of Cox Sports Television, her team was recognized with Emmy Award winning productions, and Mary Lou has been locally and nationally recognized for her interviewing and producing abilities over the years.

Mary Lou has had the honor and privilege of producing and hosting the Bristol Fourth of July Parade for television many times. She also produced and narrated a documentary on the celebration for PBS titled: “Bristol’s Fourth of July: A Celebration of History and Independence.”

She wanted to share this special memory: “In 2007, the parade Chief Marshal, Manny Correira, invited me and my husband to march in

the parade’s Chief Marshal’s Division as civilian aides. Although I considered this to be a great honor, I cheered Manny and my husband on as I covered the parade with Cox Communications and ABC6. I so wanted to march with them.”

“I’ll come down to watch the parade from my usual location on Hope Street,” Mary Lou reported.

“It’s always nice to be with friends on this day.”

Today, Mary Lou, a graduate of the Sawyer School; Johnson & Wales University (A.S. Business Administration); and Providence College, (B.A. Liberal Studies, Cum Laude), is the Executive Director of the Mashpee Chamber of Commerce in Mashpee, Ma. She is co-founder of LP Media Creations, and currently freelances with Comcast and NECN on special assignments including helping out with the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Boston.

Mary Lou resides in East Falmouth, Ma. with her husband, Gary. She is also the mother of Alison Mello of North Attleboro, Ma. and the proud grandmother of twin granddaughters, Alaina and Julia, 15.

“I may live on the Cape now, but I still call Bristol my home,” she declared. “There’s no place like home…especially on the Fourth of July.”

The

proudly celebrates 180 years of covering America's oldest Fourth of July celebration!

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2016 HATTIE BROWN AWARD RECIPIENT

BY MANUEL C. “MANNY” CORREIRA

When Stan Dimock got the call that he was chosen as this year’s Hattie Brown Award winner, it kind of caught him off guard. The likeable 60-year-old figured there were many other people deserving of this recognition.

“I was shocked,” he noted, “but excited at the same time. This award could go to half of the people who live here. There are so many people in this community doing all types of projects and good deeds.”

Mr. Dimock, who was born in Hartford, Conn., and moved to Bristol in 1995, has been very active in the Bristol community since he came to town.

“The Patriotic Sub Committee noted that Stan has been a visible presence in town for many years,

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starting with consistently cleaning up the Bristol Harbor shoreline,” said the committee’s co-chairman, Dick Devault.

“Since moving into the downtown area, he is often seen picking up trash and watering gardens without fanfare. His commitment to beautifying the town in the eyes of many is without equal.”

“This is truly a great honor for me,” said Mr. Dimock. “I didn’t know Hattie Brown, but I understand she was well-respected and very active in the Bristol community for many years.”

The Hattie Brown Award is presented each year by the Bristol Fourth of July Committee “to a worthy Bristolian who demonstrates the same spirit of community service that was so much the distinguishable trait of Hattie

PHOTO BY RICHARD W. DIONNE

JR.

Brown.” Hattie was involved with many organizations and charities throughout the State during her life. She was an active member of the Bristol Fourth of July Committee.

Hattie was well known for her charitable activities and her spirit of ecumenism. Regardless of whether it was a church, synagogue, youth organization or fraternal order, she could always be depended on for her support.

Mr. Dimock is very conscientious and a man of vision.

“I am probably more surprised than anyone at the amount of time I spend conducting my downtown ‘chores,”’ is the way he describes his work day. “My routine of picking up trash, removing leaves/debris from the curb, tending roadside gardens, and occasion-

ally removing graffiti/stickers from buildings and signs took on a life of its own before I even realized it had become a lifestyle choice for me.”

He continued, “ Keeping Bristol’s downtown waterfront district as clean as I can (within the limitations of my work schedule and weather conditions) has become second nature — almost as routine as brushing my teeth and doing the laundry.”

Born in Hartford, Ct. in 1955, Mr. Dmock was raised in West Hartford, then headed to Maine in 1973 to attend Bates College.

While working as a busboy in college, he was "discovered" by Kemper's New England Division Manager, who asked me to consider working for Kemper. He moved into an apartment in East Providence to start a 20-year insurance career – first with Kemper, ultimately with Pawtucket Mutual.

Unfortunately, Mr. Dimock’s career in insurance provided little personal satisfaction.

“It paid the bills and kept me on the ‘straight and narrow’ at a time in my life when I could have easily succumbed to less productive influences (the private party scene in Newport was a very tempting one ‘back in the day’),” he said.

“In 1998 I found myself without a job, and clueless as to what direction my life should take. However, having made the move to Bristol in 1995, I already knew how much I enjoyed cleaning the Bristol Harbor shoreline, a ‘hobby’ I had chosen shortly after settling into my condo at Windmill Point. Knowing how much I had come to love life on the waterfront and my shoreline cleanups, I started volunteering at Save The Bay's office on Smith Street, initially as a Mail Team folder/stuffer, and eventually as a paid, full time Volunteer Coordinator. Presently, I am a hybrid volunteer/staffer at Save The Bay’s Bay Center in Providence, working a 3-day (M-W-F) schedule, which allows me the flexibility to do all the things I enjoy doing in Bristol in my spare time.”

After moving to Windmill Point in 1995, Mr. Dimock

HATTIE BROWN AWARD WINNERS 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Mary Ferguson Carmine and Agnes Carraturo Thomas and Louise Adams Virginia Kinder Charlotte Ferris Anthony Marino Alfred R. Rego Sr. Jerome Donovan Victoria “Vickie” VanVoast Bristol Good Neighbors (Marie Burden, director) John Partington Joan E. Roth Margaret Morris Anthony Desmarais Madeline Grimo

2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Salvatore Palumbo Ken and Betty Burkhardt S. Michael Minutelli Mickie and Gerry MacNeill Muriel and James St. Angelo George L. Sisson Herculano S. “Okie” Falcoa Antonio A. “Tony” Teixeira Elizabeth “Betty” Brito Richard C. “Dickie” Sousa Diane Davis Hector Massa Roy Leffingwell Susan Donovan Stan Dimock

developed a cleanup route that originally covered a relatively small portion of shoreline along Poppasquash Road on either side of the condos, but over time the cleanup route grew, spanning the entire back end of Bristol Harbor – from Independence Park to the Bristol Yacht Club.

When he moved to Stone Harbour in 2007, Mr. Dimock shifted his cleanup route to the downtown waterfront district – covering the area from Quito's Restaurant driveway entrance to the USCG Aid to Navigation Station at the end of Thames Street.

“I realized after moving downtown in 2007 that with relatively little effort, I could brighten a few spots in need of a makeover – specifically, the corner of Thames and Bradford, the sidewalk in the center of the ‘library lot,’ the sidewalk trees in front of Bristol Harbor Inn, the corner of Thames and State, and the hanging baskets at Gray’s Ice Cream (because I am a big Gray’s fan). Planting in the spring is the easy part. Flower beds surrounded by sidewalks and asphalt require a lot of water, especially during the warmer summer months, and watering requires a considerable amount of time – usually two hours a day ‘in season.’ ” Mr. Dimock estimates that he spends anywhere from 500 to 700 hours a year volunteering in Bristol. Aside from picking up trash, bagging leaves and fallen branches, and garden tending, he also volunteers locally as a member of Bristol's CERT team of emergency volunteers, whose purpose is to bridge the gap on those occasions when Bristol's Police and Fire/Rescue personnel are in need of extra hands; and by serving on Bristol Recycles, the committee assigned with the task of improving Bristol's recycling rate.

He formerly served on the Bristol Conservation Commission; was a founding member of the Save Silver Creek Coalition, which prevented Cumberland Farms from building a convenience store and gas station across from Sip 'N Dip; and was a founding member and long-time board member of Save Bristol Harbor. In addition, he assisted Bristol Blooms in establishing the hanging basket program, and spent the better part of the program's first summer watering the hanging baskets in the pre-dawn hours; worked with CRMC to establish the adoption of 5 harbor-side rights-of-way adopted by Save Bristol Harbor; and volunteered for the Bristol Art Museum.

He concluded, “I am always quick to point out that while Bristol’s scenic shoreline and historic charm initially attracted me to the town, it is the citizens of Bristol that have kept me here for the past 21 years.

Bristol is blessed to have an active, involved population of adults and students who give so much of themselves to make our town the very best place it can be for residents and visitors alike. It is that spirit – that positive energy – that fuels me every time I head out the door with a trash bag to clean the neighborhood or with a watering can (or two!) to tend my adopted roadside gardens downtown.”

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BY PATRICK LUCE

Donna St. Angelo grew up a Navy kid, frequently moving from city to city around the country. In addition to the experience and real-life education she received, she also developed an acute appreciation for the U.S. military, and began her own form of service — playing a drum and twirling a rifle on drum and bugle corps in upstate New York.

Ms. St. Angelo carried her military and drum corps appreciation to Bristol when she moved here with her parents in 1984. Again, she engaged in a form of service — volunteering in her community, especially for the Bristol Fourth of July Committee.

“When we moved here and they started the drum corps show, it peaked our interest,” said Ms. St. Angelo, a long-time member of the committee and a Bristol-Warren Regional School District employee.

“We wanted to help, so we got involved in the committee.”

Ms. St. Angelo and her parents — James and Muriel St. Angelo — started with what they knew — the Drum and Bugle Corps Committee, 26

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then branched out to several committees, including parade floats, Patriotic Exercises, souvenirs and more.

James St. Angelo, a Bristol native and now a resident of the Rhode Island Veterans Home on Metacom Avenue, has always enjoyed and wanted to preserve the military aspects of the Bristol Fourth of July Parade, Ms. St. Angelo said of the 30-year Navy veteran. He worked on many aspects of the 4th celebration, eventually becoming known as “the Button Guy” because he organized the Fourth of July button contest for several years.

James and Muriel St. Angelo remained active in the Fourth of July Committee and elsewhere in the community, almost up to Muriel’s passing in January, earning the couple the Hattie Brown Award in 2006. The award is given to a Bristolian who shows the same spirit of charity and community service for which Hattie Brown was known.

The dedication to serving the community and the Fourth of July Committee was a family affair,

which, to Donna St. Angelo, made it all the more special.

“The thing that sticks out the most is I could do it with my parents,” Ms. St. Angelo said.

“Sometimes, we wait too long to do things like that. I’m really happy I could be involved and have them enjoy it all.”

Donna St. Angelo has continued her father’s dedication to the military, helping keep the military tradition of the parade alive by chairing the Patriotic Exercises Committee for six years. She has also been on the Parade Committee and was the General Chairman of the entire celebration in 2002 and 2003. Work commitments have limited the time she can spent on the committee in recent years, which she expects to change in the notso-distant future.

“I want to get back more involved after I retire,” she said, noting the teamwork committee members feel when tackling the sheer amount of work. “It’s draining, but I remember all the fun and camaraderie. It’s exhausting, but it’s all good memories.”

Bristol will once again welcome a United States Navy ship off its shore this July 4, and this year it’s one of the Navy’s newest. The USS Arlington is a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship, the third in the Navy named after Arlington, Va. It is named in commemoration of the terrorist attack on the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001, that killed nearly 200 people. Steel taken from the Pentagon is on display inside the ship.

Commissioned April 6, 2013, the Arlington has sailed extensively throughout the Atlantic and Middle East. The ship recently returned from a seven-month deployment in that region, with stops in Bahrain, Omar, Kuwait and United Arab Emirates.

Built by Northrup Grumman Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Miss., the Annapolis measures 684 feet long, with a beam of 105 feet. It has a top speed of 22 knots, can transport up to 14 fighting vehicles, and its deck can accommodate helicopters of all sizes.

It carries a crew of 28 officers, 332 enlisted Navy personnel, and a Marine Detachment of 68 officers and 633 enlisted (can be expanded to 800 if necessary). It is armed with two Bushmaster II 30mm Close In Guns, and two Rolling Airframe Missile Launchers.

The ship is under the command of Capt. Sean R. Bailey, a native of Kansas who began his Navy career as By the numbers a fighter pilot. He Length: 684’ has flown more Beam: 105’ than 3,700 hours Draft: 23’ in the F-14 and Displacement: 24,900 tons F/A-18F and has Speed: 22 knots logged more than Crew: 360 Navy; 699 Marines (up to 866) 900 carrier landings.

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PHOTOS BY RICHARD W. DIONNE

BY MANUEL C. “MANNY” CORREIRA

For the first time in its 27-year existence, the Bristol Fourth of July Committee’s “Summer Music Preview” Drum & Bugle Corps competition is being moved to Cranston Stebbins Stadium, 9 Flint Ave., Cranston, on Tuesday, July 5. And, has been the case in previous shows, a blockbuster lineup has been assembled which should please the most discriminating drum corps fan.

Anthony “Tony” Mederos, Summer Music Preview Committee co-chairman, has

worked diligently to keep this show afloat as a major component of Bristol’s Fourth of July Celebration.

“Hopefully, we’ll have another sellout, even though we’re in another location,” he said. “It’s unfortunate the way it all played out, with corps not wanting to perform at Mt. Hope High School anymore because of field conditions, etc., but so be it. The committee decided not to let this show slip away, even though it wasn’t being held in Bristol. We only hope people will understand that the committee had no choice but to move it or lose it.”

JR.

Ticket prices for the show are as follows: Reserved bleachers (Section D) $40; Reserved bleachers (Section C/E) $35; Reserved bleachers (Section B/F) $30; General Admission bleachers, $20; and Children 12 and Under (Section A) $10.

This year’s competition will be held rain or shine, starting at 7 p.m. Gates open at 5 p.m.

Competing corps include the perennial favorite Cadets from Allentown, Pa.; Phantom Regiment from Rockford, Ill.; the Crossmen from San Antonio, Tex.; the Boston (Ma.) Crusaders; the Spartans from Nashua, N.H.; and

7th Regiment from New London, Ct. The Cadets are the most illustrious name in this lineup, having won the DCI (Drum Corps International) World Championship 10 times. They are one of the 13 original founding drum corps of Drum Corps International. Last year at the Summer Music Preview, the Cadets placed second to the Blue Devils of Concord, Ca. At the 2015 DCI World Championships in Indianapolis, Ind., the Cadets placed fourth with a score of 95.900.

Phantom Regiment comes to Cranston Stebbins Stadium after having placed seventh at the DCI finals last year. The Boston Crusaders finished in 10th place, and the Crossmen ended the season with a 12th place finish. They also finished third at the 2015 Summer Music Preview. Each of these drum corps are in the World Class Division.

The Spartans and 7th Regiment are Open Class drum corps. At

the SMP last year, the Spartans edged 7th Regiment, 56.000 to 54.800.

For more information, contact Summer Music Preview co-chairman, Anthony Mederos at: musicpreview@july4thbristolri.co m, or at (401) 316-1353. For all inquiries regarding ticket sales, contact chairman Frank Fales at: smptickets@july4thbristolri.com or 644-9583.

“With the change of venue dictated by DCI,” said Bristol Fourth of July Committee chairman Donna M. Falcoa, “this year’s Drum Corp show will be like a new event for the Committee and, as any other event in its first year, there are many aspects of the show that are new to the Committee this year and there is a ‘learning curve’ for all of us this year. Tony Mederos is working tirelessly to make this event a success and to make the transition to Cranston Stadium a smooth one for everyone involved.

And I know the members of our Committee will join me in working

with Tony to make this event a success. I would be remiss if I did not express my sincere thanks and appreciation to Tony for all of the time, effort, and hard work he is putting into this event.”

She concluded, “I know that the move out of town is not a popular decision within the community.

But, all Bristolians must keep in mind that this decision was totally out of our control. I am asking every resident that has previously purchased tickets and all residents of Bristol who have never come out to see the show before to purchase tickets and help the Committee show the entire State of Rhode Island that we indeed love this show and want to keep it as part of our celebration for many, many years to come.”

Whether in Bristol or some other locale, the Summer Music Preview promises to deliver another knockout punch with quality music and high entertainment.

The show must go on, and it will, on July 5th, in all its resplendent glory.

FOURTH OF JULY

29

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FOURTH OF JULY

BY SCOTT PICKERING

In three moments.

In three corners of the world.

In three tragic circumstances.

Three lives lost, and a summer of grieving for the Bristol community.

The summer of 2015 was unusually dark for Bristol. On June 6, Bristol Police Officer Richard JeanGeorges vanished in the water off the coast of Costa Rica while vacationing with his family. On Aug. 7, Master Sgt. P. Andrew McKenna, a Bristol native and Mt. Hope High School graduate, died in a firefight with Taliban attackers in Kabul, Afghanistan. On Aug. 27, Bristol Fire Department Deputy Chief Frank Sousa, former captain of Defiance Hose Company No. 1, died in a single-vehicle crash along Metacom Avenue.

Police officer.

Soldier.

Firefighter.

In three months, Bristol lost three public servants whose careers have an unmistakable connection to the nation’s oldest Independence Day celebration, whose signature event is officially known as the Military, Civic and Firemen’s Parade.

Military

His full name was Peter Andrew McKenna Jr., but everyone knew him as “Andrew” or “Drew.” The oldest of two McKenna boys, Drew was destined to be a soldier. He announced his intentions at age 5, telling his parents, Carol and Peter, he wanted to join the Army.

Thirty years later, he was not just a soldier, he was one of the best sol-

diers — an elite Army Green Beret, a member of 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne).

Serving as First Sergeant, in charge of all base security at Camp Integrity in Kabul, Sgt. McKenna died defending the camp after Taliban fighters breached the perimeter with a car bomb.

His girlfriend at the time, a Navy physical therapist who was stationed at that base for three months, said Sgt. McKenna saved 300 lives that night. News of his heroism and tragic death spread like wildfire through Bristol, and his funeral brought an unforgettable response — thousands of people lining Route 114 for four miles, for a funeral procession that ended close to where the nation’s oldest Fourth of July parade begins.

Civic

Richard Jean-Gorges was born in Boston, lived in Rhode Island as a youngster and ended up in Alaska for college. A standout soccer player, he transferred back home to the University of Rhode Island and graduated from URI in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in English and a minor in Communication.

After a brief stint as a bank loan officer, he realized his dream of becoming a police officer in 2012 in Bristol. Police Chief Josue Canario said he was well liked and respected in both the department and the community.

He and his brother were surfing while on vacation in Costa Rica, when they were both caught in a riptide. Officer Jean-Gorges report-

edly tried to help his brother, but lost his life. His brother, Manny, was saved and resuscitated by another surfer.

His left behind his parents, two sisters and a brother, along with his Bristol Police brethren.

Fireman

Frank Sousa was a firefighter for most of his adult life, and he loved what he did. “He lived and breathed it,” said his wife, Ursula.

Frank graduated from Bristol High School in 1982 and spent 10 years as a carpenter. He joined the Defiance Hose Company No. 1 in 1992. A decade later, he was its captain.

He served two stints as department captain, from 2002 to 2005, and 2011 to 2013. He was the Bristol Fire Department’s Deputy Chief in 2008, and again in 2015.

It’s unclear exactly what happened to the deputy chief the evening of Aug. 27. He was driving alone when he lost control of his pickup truck and slammed into a fence on the side of Route 136.

His brothers and sisters throughout Bristol’s emergency services community rushed to his aid.

Despite all their efforts, they could not save him.

When they laid him to rest, an enormous force of firefighters, EMTs and public servants honored the Deputy Chief and his service to Bristol.

One summer. Three lives lost.

One historic parade to remember them all.

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Summer Concert Series on the Harbor!

PHOTO BY RICHARD W. DIONNE

BY MANUEL C. “MANNY” CORREIRA

The annual Bristol Fourth of July Concert Series at Independence Park continues to bring sweet music to everyone’s ears.

Thanks to the organizational skills of Concert Series chairman, Raymond “Sonny” Lavey, this musical extravaganza has been one of the big hits of the Fourth of July Celebration year in and year out. And because of that, more and more people attend each year.

The 2016 Concert Series will run for 15 days, from June 19 to July 3, and include 25 bands.

Concerts will go on rain or shine, 32

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according to Mr. Lavey, with the exception of high-wind or lightning weather conditions.

“This year’s Concert Series will still be on the same professional level it’s always been,” Mr. Lavey promised. “We have some great entertainment lined up.”

There will be nine new bands this year to go along with some familiar faces from the past.

“People are going to love the groups we’ve assembled this year,” Mr. Lavey continued. “They’ll be thoroughly entertained.”

Local fans will welcome Bristol’s Falcoa brothers, Tyler and Ryan, to the Concert Series for the first time on Sunday, July 3, at 6:30

JR.

p.m. They have performed at countless locations and have been involved with America’s Got Talent and The Voice. They are truly exceptional talents. They will precede the popular “Songs in the Attic,” group, highlighted by their musical tribute to Billy Joel.

Mr. Lavey advises concert-goers to arrive at Independence Park early. He also announced that no alcohol is allowed on the premises, and that dogs and pets should be contained along the outside perimeter of the park.

“We want to make this event a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all who attend,” he concluded.

The Full Lineup…

Sunday, June 19 6:30 p.m.

RENDITION Rendition is an Acoustic/Electric trio who's strength is putting their own spin on a wide range of great songs with big harmonies that will astound you.

Music from the 60’s to the present is featured in a laid back acoustic/electric format that will have you stomping your feet and clapping your hands.

Rendition is very popular on the local club scene, and will delight audiences of all ages.

7:45 p.m.

BAND OF BROTHERS Band of Brothers is a unique combination of six musicians who have been playing music since the 60's. The members have been in the bands One Bone Shy, Deja Vu, Time-Piece, Run-21, F-Sharp, Neon Jungle, and Touch, to name a few. Formed to showcase multi part vocal harmonies and an out of the ordinary variety of music, Band of Brothers takes extreme pride in performing a show that you won't forget. This series ending concert will feature a spectacular fireworks display at the end. This show will be very crowded and early arrival is highly recommended.

Monday, June 20 6:30 p.m.

THE EAST BAY SUMMER WIND ENSEMBLE The East Bay Summer Wind Ensemble is celebrating its 37th Summer Season of Music and provides a wind ensemble experience for advanced instrumentalists of high school age and up. Under the direction of David M. Marshall, the orchestra features selections from crowd pleasing contemporary favorites to complicated classical pieces which highlight the technical abilities of these advanced musicians.

7:45 p.m.

MICHAEL DIMUCCI Michael DiMucci will perform a program of classic songs and standards, movie themes, Broadway show tunes, and contemporary favorites popularized by a variety of composers for the theater and screen such as Stephen Sondheim, Rogers & Hammerstein, Jerome Kern, Henry Mancini, Andrew Lloyd Weber, and others. A native of Trenton, New Jersey, Michael, now relocated to Rhode Island, is a familiar face in Bristol, having done numerous shows at Linden Place and Cabaret and Sing Along performances at The Lobster Pot. He is also the current tenor soloist and cantor at Saint Mary's Church in Bristol. His eclectic repertoire and experience in musical theater and the American Songbook has enabled him to perform with the Rhode Island Philharmonic, the Swing and Jazz Band Avenue A, and in the South County

Production of works by Gilbert and Sullivan.

Tuesday, June 21 7:00 p.m.

88TH ARMY BAND The 88th Army Band, as part of the Rhode Island Army National Guard, has the primary responsibility to provide Musical Support across the state. The Band has a long and proud history of service to our State and Country. Instituted in 1892, the band performs a wide range of music from patriotic, classical, contemporary, big band swing, country, and the latest top-40 hits. Their Pop Rock Ensemble is consistently in the top East Coast Army Ensembles. Their show is a lively Patriotic presentation coupled with a high energy Rock set that will keep everyone thoroughly entertained.

Wednesday, June 22

Band, she is present in the moment enjoying the connection of community that only music can create.

Receiving critical acclaim for her recordings, Becky’s proven to be a very prolific songwriter releasing 9 CDs. The Boston Globe called Chace’s Take Your Shot “a stunning collection of original roots rock, folk, and blues."

7:45 p.m.

BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED With members who include graduates of the Musician's Institute and Full Sail University and have also performed or shared stages with such artists as Shinedown, Tesla and Eddy Money, BNI has taken their expertise in the music and entertainment business and come together with a mission of delivering a fun and entertaining experience while striving for excellence and professionalism adding peace of mind for your club, wedding or function. Performing the latest Top 40, Rock, Pop and Country hits as well as classic favorites BNI provides a little something for everyone.

6:30 p.m.

GERRY GRIMO AND THE EAST BAY JAZZ ENSEMBLE Gerry Grimo and the East Bay Jazz Ensemble's repertoire includes a wide range of material from the 1930's through 1990's with an emphasis on the "hits" of Jazz, Big Band, Swing, Standards, Oldies, Motown/R&B, Classic Rock, and 90's Pop/Dance music, Reggae, Country. Ballroom, Latin and more.

7:45 p.m.

NANCY PAOLINO AND THE BLACK TIE BAND Nancy Paolino and the Black Tie Band have been providing outstanding entertainment throughout New England for Corporate Events, Night Clubs, and Weddings for many years and are a welcome addition to the Concert Series. Capable of performing music from all eras, this eight piece band has entertained thousands of satisfied listeners of all ages. Full time professional musicians will present a Show Set of material from the 70’s to the present that will satisfy everyone. Great music never goes out of style.

Thursday, June 23 6:30 p.m.

THE BECKY CHACE BAND Roots rocker Becky Chace will knock you over with her voice and her longtime sidekick Brian Minisce will help you get back up and stand at attention. Their vast catalog of original music is authentic, eclectic, and honest.

Becky covers artists as diverse as Irving Berlin, Johnny Cash, and Men at Work. She believes in the power of music. Whether she’s playing her original songs with Brian as an acoustic duo, fronting The Becky Chace

Friday, June 24 6:30 p.m.

CRUSHED VELVET Crushed Velvet is a high energy tribute to the golden age of guitar driven rock of the 1970’s. Their performance includes songs from bands such as Queen, Steppenwolf, Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones and Cheap Trick. A popular act on the local club scene, the members of Crushed Velvet share a passion for live exciting visual performances that are sure to bring crowds of all ages to their feet.

7:45 p.m.

DETROIT BREAKDOWN Detroit Breakdown is a high energy group playing music that is specifically tailored to keep the audience up on their feet. Formed in September of 2008, the band plays cover and original music that blends infectious grooves from a vast array of genres and artists that the band members interpret in their own way, leading to a common thread connecting each song in a natural, yet unique way.

Saturday, June 25 7:00 p.m.

THE AMERICAN BAND After many years absence, the American Band has finally returned to the Concert Series. The American Band is a symphonic concert band comprised of over 50 adult musicians from Rhode Island and nearby Connecticut and Massachusetts. Its repertoire is both versatile and traditional with works ranging from Continued on Page 34 FOURTH OF JULY

33

Summer Concert Series From Page 33 classical to popular, marches and operatic overtures, to modern works for band. The band has a long and colorful history extending back to 1837, making the American Band one of the oldest continuously active bands in the United States. The American Band performance season extends from September through July with both public and private performances, indoors and out. We invite you to explore the world of the American Band. Currently the Band is under the leadership of Dr. Brian Cardany of the University of Rhode Island.

Sunday, June 26 7:00 p.m.

CHANGES IN LATITUDES Changes In Latitudes is the country’s premier tribute show to the Mayor of Margaritaville, Jimmy Buffett.

This nationally acclaimed band travels the country with beach balls flying, dancing conga lines, and “Trop Rock” for all. It’s the ultimate beach party that’s good clean fun for all ages. Throughout its ten year history, the band has traveled from Maine to Barbados, and Cape Cod to Chicago. From the Walt Disney Theaters aboard the Disney Cruise ships to the National Hamburger Festival in Ohio, Changes In Latitudes has thrilled audiences with an amazingly authentic reproduction of the Jimmy Buffett concert experience.

Monday, June 27 6:30 p.m.

ANNIE BROBST Annie Brobst, another first timer to the Concert Series, is the 2016 New England Music Awards Country Act of the Year. She will take the stage tonight with her full band.

Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Brobst now lives in Peabody, MA. Most of her original songs are stories from her life, with a pop/country sound, although she's been

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known to blend genres. "Ghost," on her EP due in the fall, describes her journey from Columbus to Boston, while "Between Words" came from a poem she wrote in grade school. 'Write Me a Song' was inspired by performers she'd seen in Nashville, artists on the street who were playing live music day in and day out just to survive.

7:45 p.m.

BOBBY CARLSON Bobby Carlson & the Stones River Band presents "what's happening today in country music with "a little bit of yesterday" mixed in. Bobby has won the Massachusetts Country Music Award for Male Vocalist of the Year several times and has formed a touring band with seasoned veterans of the LA/Boston/Nashville country scene. This band always surprises everyone with their professional upbeat shows.

Tuesday, June 28 7:00 p.m.

NAVY BAND NORTHEAST Navy Bands have always been an integral part of the Naval presence in Newport, dating back at least to the Civil War period. Navy Band Northeast was established in 1974, and is one of 13 official bands of the United States Navy worldwide. Under the direction of Lieutenant G. A. Fritz, the band is attached to the Naval War College on board Naval Station Newport, Rhode Island, and serves the military and civilian communities throughout the Northeastern United States performing a wide range of music from patriotic, classical, contemporary, big band swing, country, and the latest top-40 hits.

Wednesday, June 29 6:30 p.m.

DIESEL Newcomers to the Concert Series, Diesel’s Tom Sullivan and Jeff Carvalho have performed as a duo

for the past twenty four years. Tom has played in several ensembles as a drummer, guitarist and a lead vocalist. Jeff, a proud Army Veteran, comes from a very musical family has been involved in music since the age of six and has always enjoyed singing. In his teenage years he played piano and studied voice for 8 years. Diesel plays a variety of music including hits from the fifties to the present day.

7:45 p.m.

MERCHANTS OF COOL Merchants of Cool entertains audiences with the music of Bad Company, Foreigner, Kansas, Styx, Journey and more. Lead singer Sean Byrne is complimented by five other vocalists who present a harmony filled show. Multi-talented instrumentalists feature two keyboardists, two guitar players, flutist, saxophonist, drummer, and bass player. MOC has thrilled audiences throughout Southern New England and is making their first appearance at the Concert Series.

Thursday, June 30 6:30 p.m.

BOSTON PREMIER BAND Boston Premier is an outstanding musical group that consists of a team of incredible musicians who provide a level of entertainment that will please all audiences. Founded in 1989, the band has become one of the area’s most sought after entertainment groups; renowned for its polished performances and professional demeanor. Their variety of music includes the most popular selections of Big Band Swing, Oldies, Motown, Disco as well as the latest contemporary hits of today! The diversity of such an extensive repertoire coupled with many years of experience means nothing less than an incredible performance.

7:45 p.m.

THE BRITISH INVASION More than just the Beatles, The British Invasion Tribute is nostalgic music retrospective of the ENTIRE Continued on Page 40

Summer Concert Series British Invasion Era and the American Response, which occasionally includes a finale of Side B of the Beatles' Abbey Road! No cheesy wigs or costumes the band wears authentic vintage clothing from the time period. Audiences take a trip back in time, as if they were attending a concert from a bygone era.

Formed in the 1980's, the band has released two critically acclaimed albums: "Don't Quit Your Day Job" and "Horizontal Hold" on Dockside Music Records.

Friday, July 1 6:30 p.m.

PATRICK MCALOON Fresh-eclectic-mature-melodic-magical. These are just a few of the words used to describe "angels and ferris wheels", the debut album by Patrick McAloon, a twenty-four-year-old, Providence, RI based singer/songwriter. Tracks range from rock to blues and folk, all performed with amazing vocal and musical power. Patrick's fan base reflects the eclectic nature of his songs: "When I look out to the crowd, I see loyal fans from ages 15 to 50 and everywhere in between." It is this ability to appeal to a variety of people coupled with Patrick's masterful talent that make his album and his live shows incredible experiences.

7:45 p.m.

THE BRONX WANDERERS Another first time performer at the Concert Series, The Bronx Wanderers is a Father and two sons living the American rock ‘n’ roll dream – quite possibly the best 90 minutes of America’s rock ‘n’ roll songbook from the first generation right through the music of today, that you will experience on one stage. One part “oldies,” two parts rock ‘n’ roll… The Bronx Wanderers are the ” perfect musical storm, effortlessly creating a visible level of synergy between generations. Like their new CD title implies, this is a father and two sons who are “Still Happy Together.” United by their passion for great music, former gold record

producer Yo’ Vinny along with sons Vinny “The Kid” and Nicky “Stix” form the heart and soul of this pitch perfect band that delivers a non-stop barrage of hit after delicious hit. DON’T MISS THIS SHOW.

Saturday, July 2 7:00 p.m.

THE WORLD PREMIER BAND When true musicians of multiple backgrounds and talent come together, the music becomes a wall of sound that no jam session could ever produce.

Audiences inspire the musicians to reach beyond the dimensions of their abilities to satisfy the listener.

This is The World Premier Band – musicians with endless imaginations seeding the music of the 90’s and Today with Funk, Dance, Originals, and R&B. Multiple vocalists, choreographed stage moves, and Boston’s finest musicians present a performance not to be missed.

Sunday, July 3 6:30 p.m.

THE FALCOA BROTHERS Also new to the Concert Series, Bristol’s own Tyler & Ryan Falcoa have racked up millions of views on their YouTube page, covering songs by Jason Mraz, Ellie Goulding and Taylor Swift, among others. They’ve been involved with America’s Got Talent and The Voice, and won a battle of the bands held by Ryan Seacrest’s website..

Cover songs have been key to Tyler and Ryan Falcoa’s success. They created their YouTube page in 2010 with the initial intent of uploading original songs, but it wasn’t until they began including covers that their view count skyrocketed into the millions.

Ryan started on drums and Tyler started on the electric guitar. Both are self-taught musicians and were inspired by and began with ‘60s and ‘70s classic rock

making the transition to pop, honing their craft together. Tyler started out as the sole vocalist and remained so until 2011. Through the years he’s also learned to play bass, drums, piano, banjo, mandolin and ukulele. Ryan has since taken up the guitar and began singing at the time of their YouTube page launch.

A year later, they began uploading covers and the view count climbed. Their popularity got them noticed

by Ryan Seacrest’s website, which was looking for eight YouTube acts to compete against each other to see who had the best rendition of Meghan Trainor’s “All About That Bass.” Three rounds of worldwide fan voting later, Tyler & Ryan emerged victorious. A month later, they performed in front of 5,000 fans at Playlist Live at the Meadowlands Exposition Center. They’ve also been involved with both America’s Got Talent and The Voice, receiving two audition requests from the producers and advancing to various production rounds.

While covers have gotten them noticed, they’re prepping original music that stays in line with their current style. If you have listened to or seen their YouTube covers, their original music does not run too far from their cover sound. They are a pop duo who love to play around with beats and catchy melodies and are just beginning the long journey to stardom.

7:45 p.m.

SONGS IN THE ATTIC Songs In The Attic is a musical tribute conceived and presented with a tremendous amount of detail and affection for the material of Billy Joel. Formed in 2011 by Long Island veteran singer/piano player David Clark, Songs In The Attic has performed for thousands of people at the Jones Beach Boardwalk bandshell, the Neconset Gazebo summer concert series, and numerous venues throughout the Northeast.. With many incredible New York musicians, this show is a stunningly accurate recreation of the “Piano Man” himself.

FOURTH OF JULY

35

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Blue Star Moms dedicated to military parents THE GROUP SUPPORTS, ENCOURAGES MOMS WITH A CHILD SERVING OVERSEAS At any given time, the branches of the United States military will have a million or more men and women deployed overseas, spread out around the globe in as many as 150 different countries.

Behind almost every one of the soldiers and sailors in harm’s way are a mother and father sick with worry over their child’s safety. While they may not themselves be fighting in a foreign land, some experience the same level of stress as their kids, sick with the worry that they’ve seen their son or daughter for the last time.

Fortunately, there is somewhere to turn. The RI Blue Star Mothers aim to help ease the burden of constant worry for their deployed children.

“We all (in the group) have children who are in or have served in the military,” said Lori Moniz, who serves on the board of RI Blue Star Moms. “We’re just a group of moms who meet once a month to support each other.”

The group meets on the second Tuesday of every month in Warwick to help worried parents deal with the stresses of having a military child.

“We all deal with the stress of being a military parent a little differently and those differences make us

stronger,” said Blue Star Moms member Rhonda Ziehl. “No military parent should ever be alone through the stress of deployments, overseas living, the empty seat at the family table, and the tears when a song comes on the radio or even when a favorite food goes on sale at the market.”

The mission of the Blue Star Moms, which flies the blue star flag that dates back to World War I, is “to support our members and their sons and daughters who are serving or have served in the Armed Forces of the United States of America.”

Group members tell stories of their child’s deployment, update members on their children’s well-being, and offer encouragement and support to parents fearing for their kids’ safety.

“We are a non-profit service organization supporting each other and our children while promoting patriotism,” the group’s mission statement reads. “We offer a safe place to share thoughts, concerns, and any personal stories that are kept solely within the group.”

The group, which is now 10 years

old in Rhode Island, has extended its reach beyond active members.

Group members routinely attend events throughout the state to support parents and encourage those in similar situations to join the discussion.

RI Blue Star Moms also helped establish Blue Star Parent’s Day on May 15. The group petitioned thenGov. Lincoln Chafee in 2014 to establish the day to recognize and support parents with a child serving in a branch of the Armed Forces.

The RI Blue Star Moms meet on the second Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at Beacon Mutual, 1 Beacon Center, Warwick. New members are always welcome.

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r a d s t n n e l e v a of E C

June

TUESDAY, JUNE 14

Flag Day Ceremony 6 p.m.

Town Common

SATURDAY, JUNE 18

Old Fashioned Days 8:30 a.m.

Vintage Baseball Game 11 a.m.

Town Common

SUNDAY, JUNE 19

Concert: Rendition 6:30 p.m.

Concert: Band of Brothers 7:45 p.m.

MONDAY, JUNE 20

Concert: East Bay Summer Wind Ensemble 6:30 p.m.

Concert: Michael DiMucci 7:45 p.m.

TUESDAY, JUNE 21

Concert: 88th Army Band 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22

Foot Races 6 p.m.

Town Common

Concert: Gerry Grimo and the East Bay Jazz Ensemble 6:30 p.m.

Concert: Nancy Paolino and The Black Tie Band 7:45 p.m.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 23

TUESDAY, JUNE 28

6:30 p.m.

Concert: The Becky Chace Band Concert: Batteries Not Included 7:45 p.m.

FRIDAY, JUNE 24

Fourth of July Ball “Bow Tie & Big Hat Bristol Derby Ball”

Concert: Navy Band Northeast

Fireworks

7 p.m.

9:30 p.m.

Bristol Harbor

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29

MONDAY, JULY 4

Concert: Diesel 6:30 p.m.

Concert: Merchants of Cool 7:45 p.m.

Ringing of the Bells 6 a.m.

All Churches

Patriotic Exercises

5:30 p.m.

Blithewold Mansion

THURSDAY, JUNE 30

8:30 a.m.

Colt Memorial School

Concert: Crushed Velvet

6:30 p.m.

Military, Civic and Firemen’s Parade

6:30 p.m.

Concert: Detroit Breakdown 7:45 p.m.

SATURDAY, JUNE 25

Concert: The American Band 7 p.m.

SUNDAY, JUNE 26

Interfaith Service 2 p.m.

St. Elizabeth’s Church

Concert: Boston Premier Band

Concert: The British Invasion 7:45 p.m.

July

Concert: Patrick McAloon

7 p.m., Cranston Stebbins Stadium

FRIDAY, JULY 1 6:30 p.m.

Concert: The Bronx Wanderers 7:45 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 2

MONDAY, JUNE 27

6:30 a.m.

Independence Park, Thames Street

Concert: Annie Brobst 6:30 p.m.

Concert: Bobby Carlson

Bristol Independence Rhode Race Half-marathon Concert: The World Premier Band 7 p.m.

7:45 p.m.

SUNDAY, JULY 3

TUESDAY, JUNE 28MONDAY, JULY 4

6:30 p.m.

Rockwell Amusements Carnival Town Common

TUESDAY, JULY 5

“Summer Music Preview” DCI Drum Corps Show

Concert: Changes in Latitudes 7 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

Hope and High Streets

Concert: The Falcoa Brothers Concert: Songs in the Attic 7:45 p.m.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY JULY 9-10

Tennis Tournament Roger Williams University SUNDAY, JULY 17

Firemen’s Field Day 10 a.m. Muster 1 p.m. Water Battle Independence Park

WEDNESDAY, JULY 20

Paint Night 6:30 p.m.

Franklin Court

ALL CONCERTS ARE AT INDEPENDENCE PARK • FOR MORE EVENT DETAILS VISIT WWW.JULY4THBRISTOLRI.COM

FOURTH OF JULY

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THANK YOU! – PROUD PATRIOTIC SUPPORTERS PLATINUM+

PLATINUM

GOLD

Pam Lenehan & Larry Geuss

George C. Lima Funeral Home Congratulations Okie!

Jerome & Mary Squatrito

Gayl and Dudley Hallagan - Happy Birthday, America. Support our Troops and Police.

Joan C. Prescott Powerstretch Carpets Inc. - In Memory of Doctor Anthony Bernardo PLATINUM Columban Fathers - God bless America!

Raymond E. Gallison, Jr - Best wishes for a wonderful 4th and thanks to the Committee for their hard work.

Robert O'Connell, Allstate Ins. Co. - Happy 4th!

Vivian & Louis Lombardi - Thank you to all our Armed Forces Mr. & Mrs. Doug Gablinske Dr. and Mrs. William F. Bundy Jerry & Pat Romano Hector & Shirley Massa - “Stars & Stripes Forever" Roger Belmore - In memory of Olivia Belmore Ursillo, Teitz & Ritch, Ltd. John W. (Bill) Card - Thanks to the Committee for all they do to make Bristol's 4th celebration a great success, year after year.

Louis P. & Susan E. Cirillo - In Memory of Louis J. 'Chi-Chi' Cirillo - HE LOVED THE FOURTH! Herbie Moitoso - July 5th out of the picture. Bring the Drum & Bugle Corps back where it belongs.

Don't let these bands run the show!

Edward & Rachel Castro (CM ’08) Congratulations to Chief Marshal “Okie” Falcoa & Family. Happy 4th to everyone..

Ferreira Electric- Happy 4th of July!

Congratulations Okie.

Antonio/Jacqueline A. Teixeira- Thank you to all 4th of July Volunteers for your efforts!

April Carleton & Michael Rossi Joseph R. Perroni Paul C. Nicholson, Jr. Betty & Joe Brito, Jr. Keven E. Jordan Susan & Keith Maloney - Bristol- Our Home Town! Bristol!

Nathan Calouro Frank & Patricia Caruso - Happy 4th to All

Joan E. Roth - In Memory Of: M. Theresa Donovan (CM '57) from: niece Joan Doyle Roth (CM '86).

With Love

Cynthia M. Alves - Happy 4th of July!

Ros and Marcia Bosworth

A.N. Nunes Agency, Inc.

Mrs. Jane P. Castro - In memory of Past Chairman, Francis N. Perry 1959-1960

Perella's Ristorante

Doris Oberbeck

Sara Jane & Vincent Soboleski - Happy 4th of July to All our Family & Friends Near & Far

Jim & Anne Welch

Skip & Lori Castro - Happy Birthday past Chief Marshal Manny Januario!

GOLD

Ollie & Donna Poissant - Happy 4th and Stay Safe Mr. & Mrs. Herbert Burnham III - Hurrah for Eliza, Tom and Claire!

Capt. & Mrs. Peter Hewett, JAGC, USN (Ret) Happy Independence Day to all.

Russell and Lydia Serpa - Happy Fourth of July to all !

Bob & Donna McKenna - Celebrating those who have served our Country!

Town Councilman Edward P. Stuart - Wishing Everyone a Happy & Safe 4th of July!

Mike & Peggy Hanney Jay-El Trophies & Awards - Congratulations Okie and Donna! Well deserved honor! Best Wishes from Jack, John, Becky and Staff at Jay-El Trophies.

SILVER Mrs. Ronald Gladue - Happy 4th to All John & Edna Greene Eleanor McGinn Joe & Dottie Caromile - Happy 4th to our Fellow Bristolians Werner & Virginia Harrsch Mr. & Mrs. E. J. Weston Jackie & Ron Armillotto Ms. Martha Costa Oliver Insurance Agency, Inc. Susan & Stephen Terhune Donna St. Angelo - In Memory of Muriel St. Angelo - BFOJC Life Member Pat Guida-Salisbury - In Memory of Pat and Sadie Guida

Bob Rondeau - Thanks for keeping the 4th of July tradition going strong !!!

Ms. Ann-Marie Conklin - Continued Success

Joan & Richard Abrams - Happy 4th of July.

Mr. & Mrs. Sandy Matrone - Congratulations and best wishes to the 2016 Chief Marshal "Okie" Falcoa.

Bristol Art Museum - The Bristol Art Museum is proud to be a sponsor for the 231st Bristol Fourth of July Celebration.

Dick & Betty Usher - We love you Bristol and our July 4th Celebration!

Ray Cordeiro and Ory Lima - Congratulations Okie and thanks 4th of July Committee.

Evelyn B. L. Lamoureux - Enjoy our freedoms, dearly bought, then and now. 1st Miss 4th of July, 1948 .

OTHER

Anthony & Elsie Avila - Keep the Parade as is.

Don't change a thing.

The Magaziner Family - Thank You, Bristol Bristol Rotary Club, Inc. Junior League of RI John G. Rego & Gloria J. Rego Sue Nerone - In Memory of Bo Nerone and Ann Ratier. They loved the 4th. We love you and miss you! Love, Your Family.

Joseph & Joan Janario

Cliff & Kathy McGovern Roberto’s

John & Jennifer Bergmark Sandra Andrade Edward & Angela Hawkins

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Moniz

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