Eva Saloum,95, and Elma Saloum, 94, were chosen as the 2019 Parade Marshals. The sisters have lived in the same house in Ford City for the past 95 years. The sisters were driven in the parade by Ford City Councilwoman Mary Alice Bryant. Nearly 60 units joined in the parade celebration this year.
The Ford City Renaissance Community Partnership held a Pre-Labor Day parade and car show last Saturday.
The parade customarily has been held on Labor Day weekend. However, Renaissance founder Paul Klukan said it was difficult to get participation as it competed with many other parades and holiday events. This year, the parade was moved up one week and appeared to be successful.
Nearly 60 units traveled the long parade route from 14th Street, down 5th Avenue to 7th Street, crossing over to 4th Avenue and concluding at 9th Street.
West Shamokin Marching Band played a medley of patriotic songs at Saturday’s parade in Ford City.
Eva Saloum,95, and Elma Saloum, 94, were chosen as the 2019 Parade Marshals. The sisters have lived in the same house in Ford City for the past 95 years.
Although having a distinction of being among the elder citizens in town, they aren’t the oldest for sure.
“There are others just as old as I am,” Eva was quick to point out. “I graduated in 1941. There are a few of us classmates that get together the last Tuesday of the month and we go for lunch.”
“I’m so happy, so excited. This is an honor to be in the parade,” Elma said.
Eva reflected on her family and their commitment to the many laborers that once filled PPG and Eljer factories.
“My family would be so proud if they were still alive - my mother and dad, and my brother, Sam. He was for the working man, and this is what the parade represents - the working class of people!”
Klukan said that the Armstrong High School Marching Band was invited but declined the invitation. West Shamokin High School’s Marching Band participated. According to Band Director Lora Strayer, there are 48 students this year in the band. They played a medley of patriotic songs including This is My Country and God Bless America.
Kittanning Firemen’s Band member Hyatt Hawk is assisted by Mike Snyder so he could participate from his wheelchair in Saturday’s parade.
The Kittanning Firemen’s Band also participated that included a member from Manorville. Hyatt Hawk, 83, has been playing his trombone for 18 years in the band. He has played all the concert venues, but because of physical limitations, he had been unable to march with the band. This year, color guard band member Mike Snyder made it possible for Hawk, an Army veteran, to participate by pushing his wheelchair the entire length of the parade route.
“I love these guys. It is an honor to play with them. I couldn’t believe when they said I was going to march with them in the Labor Day parade. I’m excited,” Hawk said just before the parade began.
A percussion band - the Pittsburgh Steeline - the official band of the Pittsburgh Steelers, made their appearance in Saturday’s parade. Made up of 27 drummers from different areas of Pittsburgh, they provide energetic, positive, family-friendly entertainment at all the Steelers’ home games.
The Plumville Belles, seen at several other venues this summer, performed along the parade route for the audience.
The Syria Shriners brought their miniature motorcycles “Camel Wheels” and “Rode Rigs” as well as several floats The Syria Shriners “Chanters” were aboard an open trailer that was complete with microphones, electric piano, and sound system as members sang various patriotic songs.
The Iron Workers Local 3 members came out to represent the workers in their bargaining unit in the parade. De-Cal Inc. Steel Erectors also were represented with several vehicles.
Candidate for County Commissioner Anthony Shea (right) gives a flower to Ford City Council President Carol Fenyes and Planning Commission member Kristen Angthr during Saturday’s parade.
Pittsburgh Brewing had their team of horses drawing a branded carriage. Other horses in the parade were from the Fort Armstrong Horsemen’s Association carrying the United States Flag.
The parade included local Democratic politicians. Armstrong County Commissioner Pat Fabian and Commissioner Candidate Anthony Shae took time to shake hands and mingle in the crowd. Missing from the parade of his hometown was PA State Representative Jeff Pyle.
Armstrong County Veterans Affairs Director Kathy Rashlich was her own driver in the parade, representing more than 6,000 veterans of Armstrong County.
A classic car show was held on 9th Street and 3rd Avenue prior to the start of the parade. Many of those vehicles also participated in the parade.
The mini Ford City Express made its debut this year. Purchased in New Jersey, the train was restored by local car enthusiast Joe “Klink”.
Prior to the parade at the gazebo in Ford City Memorial Park, That Oldies Band performed music. Since Ford City Council began enforcement of park ordinances, the park was vacant of vehicles and vendors.
The “mini” Ford City Express was at the car show and parade Saturday.
A team of horses pull the Pittsburgh Brewing carriage that is a popular attraction in area parades this summer.