“And the rockets’ red glare… The bombs bursting in air…Gave proof through the night…That our flag was still there.”
Although the tradition of setting off fireworks to celebrate Independence Day began in 1777, the immortal words of Francis Scott Key’s “The Star-Spangled Banner” have become synonymous with Fourth of July festivities since they were first written during the War of 1812. Describing British ships bombarding American defenses at Fort McHenry in Baltimore, our national anthem is a testament to our resilience as a nation.
It is no wonder why “The Star-Spangled Banner” is our national anthem, and the highlight of fireworks shows across the country as we celebrate our freedom and independence. Especially after the past 15 months, this song reminds us that we can overcome the obstacles ahead of us with the help of our fellow Americans.
I am thrilled that the annual “Spirit of America” fireworks spectacular is returning this year to light up the Santa Clarita sky on July 4. The show will launch from the Westfield Valencia Town Center at 9:15 p.m., giving residents the chance to end their Fourth of July celebration with a beautiful and awesome fireworks display.
As you watch the fireworks this year, make sure your radio is tuned to KHTS. By doing this, you will hear a special introduction to the show and music synchronized to the fireworks spectacular.
Citrus Street, on the east side of Westfield Valencia Town Center, will be closed starting in the early morning hours of July 4 to prepare for the fireworks show. In addition, a portion of the mall’s parking lot near Citrus Street and Magic Mountain Parkway will serve as the fireworks “fall zone” and will also be closed to the public. All other roads in the area will be open to vehicle traffic, and deputies from the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station will be monitoring and enforcing existing no-parking zones around the mall.
Please also be reminded that fireworks should be left to the professionals. Not only are fireworks of any kind illegal in Santa Clarita – even those marked “safe and sane” – they also pose a tremendous public safety risk as our region deals with hot, dry and windy conditions throughout the summer. Keep your family and neighbors safe, not to mention the first responders who may have to fight a dangerous brush fire or provide emergency assistance should an accident occur.
I hope you are like me and are eagerly awaiting this year’s fireworks show. To learn more about the “Spirit of America” spectacular, please visit santa-clarita.com/Events. For more information on reporting illegal fireworks, please visit santa-clarita.com/Fireworks.
Mayor Bill Miranda is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at [email protected]. The views expressed in his column are those of the City and do not necessarily reflect those of The Signal.
