OPINION — Happy 250th birthday, America! I’ll be celebrating Independence Day at the 38th annual Fabulous Phoenix 4th from 6 to 10 a.m. Saturday, July 4 at Steele Indian School Park
The celebration at 3rd Street and Indian School attracts thousands of people. Enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, a Kids Zone, family-friendly activities, and a spectacular fireworks show beginning at 9:40 p.m.
If you know someone planning to enjoy fireworks on their own, please share the following information: Due to elevated fire danger, the city has announced a Stage1 Fire restriction status. Under Stage 1, all fireworks are banned within one mile of mountain preserves, desert parks, regional parks, conservation areas, national forests and wilderness areas. The measures are intended to protect residents, property and natural open spaces. You can learn more and check rules for any Phoenix address at www.Phoenix.gov/CelebrateSafely.
Consumer fireworks are always prohibited on city-owned property, including parks. Professional shows, like the Fabulous Phoenix 4th, are still allowed.
I appreciate everyone who stopped by my booth at Deer Valley Park last Saturday. At our annual “After Dark in the Park “event, I posed this question: What do you hope Phoenix looks like in 2076? Several people wrote that they hope Phoenix is safe, clean and livable. Responses also included wishes for well-maintained parks that are welcoming to families. It was especially inspiring to visit with children and hear their thoughts about Phoenix’s future, ranging from more trees to robots. Thank you to everyone who participated!
As we enjoy our barbecues and fireworks, I want to acknowledge our city employees who keep us safe every day. A huge shoutout to our police officers, firefighters, and 911 dispatchers for their professionalism and commitment to our community, 365 days a year. Thank you for your service!
Ann O’Brien represents District 1 on the Phoenix City Council. This was distributed as part of her newsletter. Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
