Fireworks Returning To Mount Rushmore

Above, Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For some odd reason, fireworks at Mount Rushmore National Memorial wasn't allowed during the Biden years.

However, now that Donald Trump is back in the White House, fireworks will be allowed at the Memorial this year as the nation celebrates 250 years.

The National Park Service posted:

WASHINGTON – The National Park Service today announced fireworks will again illuminate the sky above Mount Rushmore National Memorial on July 3, 2026, to celebrate the country’s 250th anniversary. Public tickets for the event will be available through a lottery on Recreation.gov from April 8–12.  

After a five-year absence, the return of fireworks to this iconic national memorial reflects President Donald J. Trump’s vision of a “grand celebration worthy of the momentous occasion of the 250th anniversary of American Independence.” 

“In partnership with the State of South Dakota, we are excited to reinstate a spectacular fireworks show as the highlight of Mount Rushmore’s Independence Day commemoration,” said Dr. Jenifer Chatfield, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks. “We invite the public to enjoy the show and reflect on our nation’s remarkable journey and the great patriotic leaders who established, preserved and expanded our country’s destiny.”   

To read more, go here. 

Independence Day

Independence Day for me was a rather sedate one. 

I could have gone into Gallup for a fireworks show, but elected to stay at home and watch Live Now from Fox News instead. They covered fireworks displays from around the country starting with Washington, D.C. and New York City and moved further west as the time went on.

As we are in a critical drought period, fireworks in McKinley County are prohibited. 

Below is a photo of my television screen showing fireworks on the Mall with the Lincoln Memorial in the background.

 

July 4th Gathering

Above, yours truly and Martin Link last year. Photo by Russell Azbill.

Independence Day for me was a laid-back day for me.

I spent most of the day at home relaxing and listening to music and reading. Later, I headed for a little gathering at author/historian Martin Link's home in Gallup. 

As there was no planned fireworks displays in Gallup, we didn't have the gathering at Link's gazebo, but in the central patio of his home. It was ironic that the so-called "Most Patriotic Small Town In America" didn't have a city-sponsored fireworks program, one guest observed.

The discussion ranged from Gov. Lujan Grisham's lunatic EV and gasoline hike scheme, movies and Fort Wingate (no progress on that). 

All in all, it was a pleasant evening.

Home During The 4th

Above, in Six Mile Canyon yesterday. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

As things yesterday turned out, I ended up staying home. 

We got some rain yesterday afternoon. I don't know if it rained or not during the evening or during the night (I wouldn't be surprised if it did), but I didn't feel like venturing out. So I ended up enjoying the quiet neighborhood and went to bed at around 9:15. 

I must've fallen asleep right away because I didn't hear a thing, so I am assuming nobody around my area shot off fireworks. 

Last year was different. I was at Martin Link's and the view from his hilltop backyard were great for viewing fireworks all over Gallup. It was so clear last year that we were able to see fireworks from Window Rock, Arizona. Last night was decidedly cloudy. It was also warmer last year. It was jacket weather last night.

Still, I enjoyed my Independence Day as I drove the Jeep into Six Mile Canyon.  

Japan's First "Highest Altitude Fireworks Display" At Mount Fuji

Above, a Shinkansen view of Mount Fuji. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Plans are underway for Japan's "first highest altitude fireworks display" from the lower slopes of Mount Fuji.

According to Japan Today:

TOKYO - Though fireworks are most commonly associated with summer festivals in Japan, there’s no rule that says you can’t enjoy them year round; and during the colder months when skies are clearer, the colorful displays contrast against the dark of night and appear to shine brighter than ever.

On the 18th of December this year, the lower slopes of Mount Fuji will become the setting for "Japan’s highest altitude fireworks display" when approximately 5,000 fireworks will be launched from the second station of the Fujinomiya trail.

The display will be taking place at Amusement Park Grinpa, which is located at the second station of the Fujinomiya trail (with most hikers starting their Fuji climb from the fifth stations, it’s also a great opportunity to get acquainted with the lesser-visited lower end of the trail).

Seventeen years ago (it hardly seems that long ago), the first G-TOUR had the tour group at Lake Kawaguchi for a fireworks festival. Silhouetted against the night sky was Mount Fuji. It was a display that the tour group never forgot. 

Too bad that tourists won't be able to see this display since the country is closed to foreign visitors. Hopefully, this display will be an annual event after the pandemic ends.

To read more, go here.

4th of July In Gallup

Above, a burst from the Gallup fireworks program. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Last night, I spent the evening of fireworks-watching at the Gallup home of historian Martin Link. The attendees were the monthly dinner group members.

Above, the group getting some munchies before nightfall. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

His hilltop home overlooks the western section of Gallup, which gave us a good view of the city's official fireworks display. Link has a gazebo in his backyard and that is where we congregated.

Above, the gazebo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Interestingly, we were able to see the fireworks display of Window Rock, Arizona, which is 25 miles from Gallup. The fireworks from Window Rock were just at the horizon.

Above, a fireworks burst off in the distance from Window Rock, Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Most of us were concerned over possible wildfires caused by careless people. Some were also concerned over the welfare of their pets and livestock from the explosions. 

Above, Martin Link had some fireworks in his barbeque, but it was
 decided to not use them due to the dry brush. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

We had an enjoyable time at Link's and on our way back to Jamestown, we saw more fireworks along the way (some originating from odd places).

Above, another burst from the Gallup show. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Happy Independence Day!

Above, the opening flag ceremony at this year's Wild West Days Rodeo in Grants, New Mexico. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Happy Independence Day!

This holiday has more importance this year as we're coming out of the pandemic and with the divisions that seems to be intensifying among the people, led by radicals who have gained control of the government through chicanery.

I may be going into Gallup this evening to watch the city's fireworks show from historian Martin Link's hilltop home.

Have a safe Independence Day!

Gov. Kristi Noem: No Fireworks At Mt. Rushmore "Part of Radical Left's Agenda"

Above, Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

A federal judge decided not to overturn the Biden Administration's ban on Independence Day fireworks at Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

The decision will be appealed, according to South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem.

According to Fox News:

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem vowed on "Fox & Friends" Thursday to appeal a court ruling that upheld the Biden administration’s decision to cancel a Fourth of July fireworks show at Mount Rushmore.

"The decision was really arbitrary, that's why we’ll be appealing this decision, and the fight isn't over," Noem said. "This is part of the radical left's agenda. They don't want to celebrate America or our freedoms. They're pushing critical race theory. They're pushing the 1619 Project. And this is just another one of those battles to erase our true, honest and patriotic history in this country."

Fireworks were reintroduced at the federal landmark for the first time since 2009 last year under Donald Trump, but the National Park Service (NPS) denied Noem’s permit request earlier this year, citing health reasons relating to coronavirus, wildfire risks, environmental concerns, and ongoing construction at the national monument, which is not set to be concluded by the Fourth of July.  

I attended a Mount Rushmore fireworks program 30 years ago and it was an inspiring and awesome spectacle.

To read more, go here. 

South Dakota Sues Biden Administration Over Denial of Mount Rushmore Fireworks

Above, Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since January 20, there's hardly been a week that the administration of His Fraudulency Joe Biden hasn't been sued.

Another lawsuit against the administration has been announced by South Dakota's governor. That lawsuit involves Independence Day fireworks at Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

According to U.S. News & World Report:

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is suing the Biden administration for not allowing the state to hold an Independence Day fireworks show over Mount Rushmore.

"Mount Rushmore is the very best place to celebrate America's birthday and all that makes our country special. Unfortunately, the Biden Administration cancelled our Mount Rushmore Fireworks Celebration," Noem said. "So we're suing them to get the fireworks back."

The National Park Service first denied a request from South Dakota in March, stating that a fireworks show posed risks to both the park and the health and safety of its employees and visitors.

"After telling us they'd 'circle back,' the Biden Administration has not responded to our request to uphold the Memorandum of Agreement between the State of South Dakota and the National Parks Service to host a safe and responsible national celebration and fireworks show," Noem continued.

To read more, go here.

Park Service Rejects Mt. Rushmore Independence Day Fireworks

Above, Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The National Park Service threw cold water on a request by the state of South Dakota to have Independence Day fireworks at Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

The Hill reported:

The National Park Service (NPS) has denied a request from the state of South Dakota to hold a fireworks display at Mount Rushmore to celebrate the Fourth of July this year. 

NPS Regional Director Herbert Frost wrote in a letter to the head of the state’s tourism department that NPS is “unable to grant a request to have fireworks at the Memorial.”

“Potential risks to the park itself and to the health and safety of employees and visitors associated with the fireworks demonstration continue to be a concern and are still being evaluated as a result of the 2020 event,” Frost wrote. “In addition, the park’s many tribal partners expressly oppose fireworks at the Memorial.”

“These factors, compiled with the COVID-19 pandemic, do not allow a safe and responsible fireworks display to be held at this site,” he added. 

To read more, go here. 

Expect A Modified Las Vegas New Year's

Above, the Fremont Experience during pre-coronavirus days. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Las Vegas, Nevada will be open for New Year's revelers, but it will be somewhat restricted on The Strip and on Fremont Street, compared to past years.

According to the Las Vegas Review-Journal:

The Fremont Street Experience will remain open on New Year’s Eve, albeit with less pomp and circumstance than in years prior.

The six-block entertainment district will act as a pedestrian walkway to those 21 and over Thursday evening. Those who want access to the area and its hotel-casinos from 6 p.m. on will be charged $25 for a security fee wristband and will be required to go through security screening.

The walkway will close at 5 p.m. on Thursday for a security sweep and reopen at 6 p.m. for those who have a wristband or are staying at the hotels along the Fremont Street Experience. There will be no live entertainment or bands, but the SlotZilla zoom-line will run between 6 p.m. and 2 a.m., according to the Fremont Street Experience’s website.

Above, no New Year's fireworks on The Strip this year. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

And, on The Strip:

LAS VEGAS (kSNV) — New Year's Eve is still a couple of days away but already people are showing up to ring in the holiday, despite the pandemic.

"We're still going to be here. Why not? Where else are you going to be?,” said Dixon Rice. He and his family are here from California.

They say they chose Las Vegas in part because it's still open. "A lot fewer, a lot fewer restrictions," said Dixon.

Nonetheless, this year's festivities will be different, specifically, no fireworks launched from Las Vegas Strip.

To read more, go here. 

Slow Drag Racing In Buhl

Above, Bill and Mitch. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Last evening, following barbecued hamburgers and hot dogs, the gathering at Bill & Linda Wilson's in Buhl, Idaho decided to honor the attendees at the Wells Fun Run with some spoofing "Slow Drag" races.

During the day, everyone hung out and swapped stories and jokes. It was relaxing and enjoyable. The weather was cooperating as it was cloudy and cool out.

Videos were made and posted with some not-too-subtle homages to the Wells, Nevada gathering.

After the slow drag racing, we had a "WFF Fireworks Spectacular" (sparklers).

Here's some photos from yesterday:

Above, hanging out during the day. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, Mitch enjoying lunch. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, and below, the "Slow Drag" race. Photos by Armand Vaquer.

First Independence Day At Home

Above, the flags in the front yard yesterday. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Independence Day came and went.

For me, it was the first Independence Day around home. Last year, Jess and I went to Roswell for the UFO Festival. I spent last evening with friends up the hill at dinner (roast chicken, homemade pumpkin pie and rolls) and had an enjoyable time. Everyone liked the Robert Mondavi Merlot wine I brought (perfect for roast chicken, according to the label).

Since there's a lot of brush in the area, there were no fireworks going off. But then, I ended up going to bed at 9:30 (I didn't overeat, but had a slight food coma anyway). The Flying J sells fireworks all year as does the Indian Market at the Continental Divide, about eight miles east. At least we have our own dedicated McKinley County fire department down the hill for quick responses.

For the rest of July, it will involve traveling. I'll be going to Albuquerque to take care of a few things this coming weekend in preparation for G-FEST later next week and then heading north to Wells, Nevada for the Wells Fun Run and Jackson, Wyoming for some whitewater rafting later in the month.

I checked with my cousin (she called me, actually) and everyone rode out the Ridgecrest earthquake in fine shape. That was an interesting way to celebrate the Fourth of July, to say the least.

Happy Birthday, America!

Have a safe and sane Independence Day!

Fireworks

Above, it looks like one can set off a small war with some of this stuff! Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Before we know it, it will be Independence Day.

At the Flying J down the hill from our community, there's a section devoted to fireworks. These aren't the "wimpy" fireworks that are supposedly safe & sane, these are the real deal, including skyrockets, etc. One can set off a small war with some of these!

The only other places I've seen these types were at an Indian travel center in Nevada and at an Indian gift shop in Continental Divide (eight miles away).

Unfortunately, due to the brush and dry conditions around New Mexico, it would not be prudent to shoot any off.

July 4th Weekend In Yosemite To Be Busy

Above, campgrounds on the reservation system such as North Pines are fully booked. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It is anticipated that the Fourth of July weekend will be a very busy one at Yosemite National Park.

The Sierra Sun Times has an article on what people can expect, tips and what is not allowed in the park.

They wrote:

June 28, 2017 - Yosemite National Park anticipates a very busy Fourth of July weekend. The park expects high visitation, especially from Thursday, June 29, 2017 until Wednesday, July 5, 2017. Visitors are encouraged to arrive at Yosemite before 9:00 am or after 4:00 pm. Once in the park, visitors are urged to park their vehicles at the Yosemite Village, Yosemite Falls, or Half Dome Village parking areas and leave them parked. Visitors are then encouraged to use the free shuttle bus service, bike paths, and hiking trails to navigate Yosemite Valley. One of the best ways to travel around Yosemite Valley is by bicycle. 

Parking in Yosemite Valley is very limited and is expected to fill early. Visitors coming to Yosemite National Park should expect up to a 3-hour wait to enter and park their vehicles. There will be traffic congestion throughout the park, including in Yosemite Valley, along Glacier Point Road, and in Tuolumne Meadows. Parking is only allowed in designated parking areas. Vehicles parked off road or blocking the flow of traffic may be towed or receive a citation for up to $780.00.

And, most importantly:

Fireworks are strictly prohibited in the park. 

All campgrounds on the reservation system are completely sold out for the weekend. The park’s first-come, first-served campgrounds will fill early. There are many camping and lodging options in the gateway communities surrounding the park.

To read more, go here.

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