July 3rd Event to Reach Quarter-Million Mark

The great Western New York summer tradition of the Independence Eve Celebration with the Buffalo Bisons and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, presented by KeyBank, will surpass a quarter of a million fans during their 14th annual event, Thursday, July 3, 2008 at Dunn Tire Park.

This year, the Bisons take on the Rochester Red Wings with a 6:05 p.m. first pitch. After the game, the Independence Eve Celebration, presented by KeyBank, will continue with a concert from the BPO and Chorus and the Largest Fireworks Show of the Season.

The premier summer event in Downtown Buffalo began in 1995. In the 13 seasons prior to 2008, the event has drawn 247,575 fans.

"This milestone represents what an amazing event our Independence Eve Celebration is and how it has grown into a must-see summer tradition for the families of Western New York," said Mike Buczkowski, Vice President/General Manager of the Buffalo Bisons. "Every year, Paul Ferington and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus put on a world-class show for our fans."

This year's program will include the Irish Tune "O Danny Boy" as a tribute to the recent passing of two of the Bisons biggest fans: Mayor Jimmy Griffin and Tim Russert. The show will also feature several military and American classics as well as tributes to American stage, cinematic and pop cultures.

The concert will begin with Morton Gould's "American Salute" and continue with John Williams "Olympic Fanfare" to honor the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing, China. The 70th birthday of songwriter Bob Sherman will be celebrated with a medley from "The Jungle Book" and the 25th anniversary of The Natural will be observed with excerpts from the famous movie filmed at the former home of the Buffalo Bisons, War Memorial Stadium. The BPO will also honor great series Star Wars with a medley of songs from the movie.

Next, fans will be able to pay tribute to the 232nd birthday of out great nation as the BPO and Chorus present the "Star Spangled Spectacular Sing Along" and "God Bless America." The "Armed Forces Salute" will allow the fans in attendance to honor the brave men and women that are fighting to protect our freedoms both home and abroad. Finally, Independence Day classics like "Overture 1812" and "Stars and Stripes Forever" will lead into the Largest Fireworks Show of the season.

Tickets are still available for the Independence Eve Celebration. Fans can purchase seats by calling THE-HERD (843-4373) or by clicking HERE An individual ticket for the game is $22.