Subdued July 4 can still have a happy ending

EDITORIAL

No fireworks, no bars, no fun at the beach.

So what will you be doing this Fourth of July weekend?

Just when a national celebration is needed most, letting thousands of people gather to enjoy fireworks—or take walks in the sand—is an obvious health hazard. These, of course, are unprecedented times, and this is the first year since World War II that most of the fireworks shows have been canceled nationwide. A local July 4 weekend at the beach has never been canceled as far as we know.

But this year we’re being asked to sacrifice the glow of nighttime pyrotechnics and shine a light instead on the deaths of more than 120,000 Americans who have died in the pandemic.

While the live, holiday shows are being prohibited, America’s patriotic fervor hasn’t dimmed. People are looking to the holiday as a way to come together and renew their fight against the virus the same way the nation has come together on other troubled Independence Days during its 244-year history.

This year we must forgo the baseball games, the parades, the concerts and all the other revelry that makes July 4 so special. We’re being asked to celebrate without the celebrations.

But not all is lost. We have each other and we have our creativity.

What about a family backyard barbecue, a game of catch on the lawn, a fun local hike, or a drive up the coast? How about a picnic at one of the many fine public parks?

Some of our local cities are getting creative. Agoura Hills will celebrate the Fourth, not with its usual outdoor concert in the park, but with a citywide house decorating contest. Residents are encouraged to decorate the front of their homes and porches with anything patriotic and submit pictures to the city for judging. Awards will be given to Most Spirited, Eco-Friendliest, Pet Friendliest and Mayor’s Award. Residents can post pictures by July 4 and tag @AgouraHillsRec or @CityofAgouraHills on Twitter and Instagram. Get those ideas churning.

The signing of the Declaration of Independence wasn’t just an act of defiance; it was an expression of hope that we as a nation could stand together and defeat a bigger foe. America was built on a foundation of resilience and resilient we will be in our current battle against the virus.

Most of all, let us come together as one. Those who seek to pit “us” against “them” leave no room for hope. Those who seek to help their fellow Americans, friend or stranger, keep that hope alive.

We know a better tomorrow is waiting for us. History has proven it time and again. And when we come together next year to celebrate Independence Day, may the night sky light up once again and our futures be bright.

This year, try to keep a positive frame of mind, and have a safe Fourth of July.