A unified public display of July 4th patriotism in defiance of government orders is something expected from a state like, say, Texas — but even Californians appear fed up with the restrictions.
After Governor Gavin Newsom warned officials to “enforce” health rules, including those that restricted fireworks displays and banned people from singing at church, the citizens of California responded in a big way.
A local news report from KCAL caught the stunning scene, which shows a seemingly endless display of individual homes launching off firework after firework.
“There are massive fireworks going off in pretty much every direction that you see here. Our local fire departments and police departments have been begging people not to do this, but it seems tonight they are not listening to those calls,” the reporter said.
The city of LA banned the fireworks and the majority of cities in LA county. “It is quite the sight, but this is not supposed to be happening – you could be fined up to $50,000 dollars,” she added.
From KQED:
Newsom recommended that the 19 counties subject to mandatory closures also consider canceling July 4 fireworks displays, to limit large crowds that could increase transmission of the coronavirus.
But if you’re in the Bay Area, this hardly represents a change: Even if you feel like you’re hearing fireworks in your street most nights, virtually all official firework displays in the Bay Area have already been canceled.
The patriotism was certainly flowing in California over the weekend, and what an amazing sight it was, indeed!