On Thursday, July 2, hundreds of community members gathered in downtown Columbia City for Stars, Stripes & Symphony, an evening dedicated to celebrating our nation’s independence through music, history, and hometown pride.
Despite the summer heat, families, veterans, neighbors, and visitors filled the lawn as patriotic performances and historical readings created a meaningful start to Independence Day weekend. The overwhelming turnout was a wonderful reminder of what makes our community so special–people coming together to honor our country’s past while celebrating the place we call home.
The evening featured an incredible lineup of local talent and special guests who brought the program to life. Thank you to:
- Creole Candy Dixieland Band
- Whitko Band
- Lisa O’Dell as Abigail Adams
- Aspen Craft
- Lawrence E. Wolfe Community Handbell Choir
- Murray Cox as President Abraham Lincoln
- Kira Bell
- Whitley County Community Choir
- Truman Sade
Each performer shared their talents to create an evening that was both entertaining and inspiring, reminding us of the history, sacrifice, and freedoms that unite us as Americans.
We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to Mayor Ryan L. Daniel for welcoming everyone to the event and for his continued support of community celebrations that bring people together.
A special thank you goes to Boy Scout Troop 83 for presenting the colors, leading the audience in the National Anthem, and volunteering throughout the evening by passing out water and assisting wherever help was needed.
Behind every successful community event is an incredible team of volunteers. We are especially grateful to Columbia City High School and Principal Brady Mullett for generously providing the stage, and to the Columbia City High School Key Club for helping with setup and teardown. Their willingness to serve made a tremendous difference.
Thank you as well to Casa Balbina CC for providing food and refreshments for our stage crew and volunteers, helping keep everyone energized throughout the evening.
Of course, none of this would have been possible without the many volunteers who spent countless hours planning, organizing, setting up, coordinating, and cleaning up. Their dedication and servant hearts continue to make events like Stars, Stripes & Symphony possible, and we are incredibly thankful for each and every one of them.
We would also like to recognize our Stars, Stripes & Symphony Table Sponsors, whose generous investment helped make this event possible:
- Steel Dynamics Long Products Group – Structural and Rail Division
- C&A Tool
- Fort Wayne Metals
- Fox Products Corporation
- Abby Carter, Realtor – RE/MAX Integrity
- Whitley County Area Lions Clubs
- Crossroads Bank
- Allpro Towing & Recovery
- TJ NOWAK Supply
Your support allows us to continue creating meaningful experiences that strengthen our downtown and bring our community together.
Finally, thank you to everyone who attended. Whether you came to enjoy the music, honor our veterans, reflect on our nation’s history, or simply spend time with family and friends, you helped make the evening truly memorable.
As we reflect on Stars, Stripes & Symphony, we’re reminded that our greatest traditions are strengthened when they’re shared with others. Thank you for celebrating with us and for making downtown Columbia City the heart of our community.
We look forward to seeing you at our next downtown event!
