Festival to Conclude with "Concert in the Sky"
Fireworks show will again be one of Midwest's best

While many community events have gone without large-scale fireworks displays because of a slow economy, Atchison will again host one of the region’s most spectacular shows. The “Concert in the Sky” fireworks finale is scheduled for dusk on Saturday, July 18.

The show is the finale and one of the highlights of the 13th annual Amelia Earhart Festival. The festival includes educational presentations, children’s activities, downtown music, food and crafts, and a carnival, all celebrating the legendary aviatrix, who grew up in Atchison.

“We are very fortunate to have the support of individuals, companies and businesses in the community that will allow this spectacular fireworks show to continue for its 13th year,” said Jacque Pregont, festival coordinator.

Once again, Paul Austin and Stellar Fireworks, Inc., will provide the pyrotechnic entertainment. The show combines the sight of spectacular fireworks lighting up the night sky over the Missouri River and Amelia Earhart Memorial Bridge, choreographed music, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

Stellar Fireworks has provided shows around the country, including the 100th Anniversary of Niagara Falls, the U.S. Olympic Festival, and shows at large theme parks and Las Vegas hotels. The company was recognized as the best in the world by winning the Gold Jupiter Award at the prestigious Montreal International Fireworks Competition — the first American entrant to win the coveted award.

The fireworks finale has become one of the festival’s signature events with an estimated 35,000 people in attendance. And before the fireworks blast off, visitors will be treated to some stunning aerobatic performances over the Missouri River, beginning at 7:55 p.m. The wingwalker will return to mystify the crowd and Cheryl Stearns, the most successful competitive skydiver in the world, will parachute to the Riverfront.

“We’re excited to have Paul Austin’s choreographed ‘Concert in the Sky’ as the finale for the Amelia Earhart Festival,” Pregont said. “It is already a tradition that has a reputation all over the country. Paul has promised another fabulous show!”

Other signature events of the festival include LakeFest, the “Women Breaking Barriers” Symposium and the Amelia Earhart Pioneering Achievement Award Luncheon.

The panel for the  “Women Breaking Barriers” Symposium includes 2009 Amelia Earhart Pioneering Achievement Award winner Maj. Nicole M.E. Malachowski, the first female pilot of the Thunderbirds; Mary Carol Garrity, owner of the legendary Nell Hill’s store; and Stearns. Maria Antonia of KMBC Channel 9 in Kansas City, Mo., will moderate the symposium.

LakeFest 2009, an outdoor concert at beautiful Warnock Lake, features decorated country music stars Rodney Atkins, Little Big Town and Jack Ingram.