For the first time in more than 20 years, the city’s birthday celebration was cut short because of inclement weather. The city’s 254th birthday celebration was held at Oronoco Bay Park on Saturday, July 12.
Just as the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra was about to begin their performance, lightning flashed and the rain fell. The symphony will give a special performance in September but the fireworks display was postponed only until Sunday night.
“We were really pleased with the turnout,” said Janet Barnett, the deputy director of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Activities. “On Saturday night, the park was completely full and on Sunday night, the park was about half full.”
A birthday cake was served to all birthday celebrants and Alexandria Town Crier, John Yagerline, roamed the grounds greeting everyone.
The Parks and Recreation Commission was able to announce its annual awards on Saturday night, before the storm came. The award winners included:
* Corporate Neighbor Award - Jack Taylor Toyota;
* Organization Award - Friends of Alexandria Skate Park;
* Outstanding Youth Award - Shaniqua Brooks;
* Outstanding Citizen Award - Larry Trice;
* Outstanding Citizen Award - Jim Gibson; and
* Special Citizen Awards - Claire Eberwein, David Speck, and Kerry Donley.