“As mankind becomes more liberal, they will be more apt to allow that all those who conduct themselves as worthy members of the community are equally entitled to the protections of civil
Government. I hope ever to see America among the foremost of justice and liberality.”
~ George Washington

President Washington’s words are as relevant today as when he wrote them over 200 years ago. Real 4th of July sentiments from our first president.

The first days of summer in the foothills were intense. Record breaking temperatures have been recorded throughout the southwest although we didn’t reach one here. Several days, including last weekend and this week, have topped the 100 degree mark as a strong and stubborn high pressure settled in. These conditions are not unheard of; the 4th of July in 1985 hit 110 degrees. The problem, especially this year and last, is that rainfall totals are below normal. The native vegetation is moisture starved and water sources are low. Many climatologists agree we are in a drought. Local coyotes will concur, as we were awakened early one morning to the sound of their howling and yipping. Abby did not like their trespassing into “her neighborhood” and spent the rest of the night in our bed!

With cooler weather on the way, let the celebration of American Independence Day begin! Never meant to be a small, subdued or quiet day, July 4th is the biggest birthday party of the year and everyone is invited. The event is not complete without displays of fireworks and CV has one of the best. Even the earliest displays, first held 2,000 years ago by the Chinese, were made to make loud noises for celebrations. When the final draft of the Declaration of Independence was completed, it was time to recognize the momentous occasion. Plans for this first event were suggested in the following:

On July 3, 1776 John Adams wrote, to his wife Abigail –  I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated … with Pomp and Parade, with Shews (archaic word for shows or demonstrations), Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever  more…

And so it was one year later: The evening was closed with the ringing of bells, and a grand exhibition of fireworks … Thus may the 4th of July, that glorious and memorable day, be celebrated through America, by the sons of freedom, from age to age till time shall be no more. Amen, and  amen  (Virginia Gazette, 18 July 1777).

For Crescenta Valley, a significant cooling due to a deepening marine layer lowers temperatures slightly below normal through the weekend. Daytime highs in the low 80s dropping into the 60s at night are predicted. Clear skies are predicted for the evening of the 4th that will proclaim “Happy Birthday, America!”

Sue Kilpatrick is a Crescenta Valley
resident and Official Skywarn Spotter for the National Weather Service.
Reach her at  suelkilpatrick@gmail.com.

  Sue Kilpatrick