The Air Force Band serenaded, and Civil War re-enactors in authentic wool uniforms were present, as Racine's two Civil War cannons officially returned to their rightful place -- since 1889 -- at the center of Monument Square.Although the fireworks display was cancelled at the last minute by the two vendors, plenty of noise was provided across Main Street on Sam Johnson Parkway by re-enactors from Battery A, 3rd Ordinance, and Battery B, 4th U.S. Artillery, both of which were present at Gettysburg and at Lee's surrender at Appomattox. Both brought field cannons smaller than our two 30-lb. Parrott cannons -- one was a bronze field cannon actually used in the Civil War, the other a replica -- but when fired with 6 ounces of powder (a normal charge would have been 16 ounces) they made one hell of a bang.
In any case, as you can see from the top picture, the kids present last night at the rededication ceremony understood perfectly well that the city's cannons, reinstalled last Thursday, are back by the monument for them.
Below, Battery B readies its 10-lb. "Napoleon" cannon for firing, and then, bottom photo, fills the air with a loud BOOM and smoke as it fires. It was a reasonable substitute for the missing fireworks and a fitting welcome for our cannons, back after a three-year hiatus.
Who was the consultant or designer of the granite cannon bases? I don't recall hearing his/her name mentioned at the ceremony. They are so much more fantastic than the previous bases.
ReplyDeleteThe granite bases were designed and produced by Monte Osterman at Osterman Granite and Marble. They donated the design, labor, and installation of the bases and even set the cannons in place on the bases. I believe the city paid for the material. We know Mr. Osterman's work and can attest to the quality job the City received on these cannon bases. It's a complete shame Osterman was not recognized for their contribution to the project. Without them it wouldn't have happened so well.
ReplyDeleteIt was my understanding that Osterman Granite was a paid contractor and received fair compensation for the services they provided. In fact, I don't believe Osterman finished the project and city personnel had to come in to complete the stonework around the bases so everything would be ready in time for the ceremony. Were any other "contractors" on this project recognized during the ceremony?
ReplyDeleteLooks like Devin is once again trying to justify his vindictive attitude. No wonder DRC members claim they are afraid to speak how they feel for fear of retaliation. DRC is very competitive and threatened by their members. It's also interesting to note that although Devin speaks out against the Post and it's owners, he still checks it every day to see who is saying what ahout him. How arrogant. Don't you have enough to do Devin? What a wash-woman.
ReplyDeleteAlright, everyone calm down, don't air your grievances with each other in public. All I was wondering what who designed the bases. They are a beautiful compliment to Monument Square. They make the cannons look like they belong there, in a peaceful setting. I would hope that all contractors be recognized and paid for their work. Peace Out.
ReplyDeleteWhat's a "wash woman?" Is that an irish term?
ReplyDeleteMonte Osterman should have been recognized, it is a small person and insecure person who avoids the recognizing skilled and hard work.
ReplyDeleteI am not connected to any business downtown but am aware of the happenings downtown and known that "Devin" is probably one of the biggest detriments to the success of downtown Racine.
Regardless of who is compensated, it is obvious that the time and effort put in to bringing back the cannons was put squarely on Osterman's shoulders and he wore that burden well. I think whoever overlooked him and his company in the ceremonies made themselves look small and insecure.
Hats off to Monte and his workers for a job well done. Many in this community KNOW what he has done for Racine. We salute him.
Just to set the record straight, I am the person who wrote the anonymous blog at 8:15 p.m. last night and I am NOT Devin Sutherland.
ReplyDeleteI know Devin and I know the work that he and his staff do in Downtown Racine. Everyone should be thankful and grateful that Racine has an organization such as DRC to advocate for Downtown and its businesses. Let's give recognition where recognition is due -- it's HATS OFF to DRC!
It may be hats off to the Organization but they can do much better than Devin.
ReplyDeleteAsk Devin some time about the "Secret Shopper" program he initiated a couple years ago.
ReplyDeleteSecret Shopper? I think that shounds rather neat. Did someone get a prize? Is it like a scavenger hunt? Pray tell, what is the secret shopper game, I can't believe I missed it!
ReplyDeleteWhat is this secret stuff, was it a promotion?
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to the Battery crews in your photos on maintaining an authentic and impressive presentation. Come to Olustee in February. I would imagine that a Yankee battery like yours would be welcomed. Authenticity is appreciated. Good job.
ReplyDeleteForgot one thing in my post earlier today. Go Rauders!
ReplyDeleteI hope they play better than I can spell. From an old green and gold Raider to the new guys. Have a great season.
ReplyDelete