Latest news with #IndependenceDayParade
Chicago Tribune
07-07-2025
- Business
- Chicago Tribune
New Oak Park business initiative harnesses Fourth festivities for First Fridays
A new initiative intended to spur interest in less-well known shopping areas around Oak Park and River Forest coincided Friday with Independence Day. First Fridays, a brainchild of the Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce, is intended to celebrate communities outside the major hubs in the communities and show off what treasures neighborhoods have been keeping secret. The first one launched July 4 at Chicago Austin with a brass band, a bounce house and ice cream after Oak Park's Independence Day Parade and a brief rainstorm. The city blocked off Chicago Avenue between Lombard and Humphrey avenues, as throngs of visitors strolled the streets, and local store owners marveled at the crowds that were unusual for the area. 'I think it's something that I've been wanting for the last eight years I've been here,' said Jimmie Wallace, the owner of Demiurge Clothing at 116 Chicago Ave. Wallace said he's been a longtime community booster but his neighborhood has been slow to get much action. The July 4 celebration made the street come alive, he said. 'I'm seeing community,' he said. 'I'm seeing people out in the street enjoying themselves and there's positive energy.' Visitors, too, loved it. 'We live in the neighborhood and we heard about it and it's a great way to get the energy out with this slate of kiddos,' said Angie Gaffney, with her daughter in tow, along with neighbors and their three kids. Along Chicago Avenue, kids waited for cotton candy and face painting and, down the street from Wallace, adults stood in a line out the door to get a cup of coffee from Daly Bagel. The scene is exactly what event organizers had in mind. 'We wanted to give attention to the business districts beyond the ones everyone knows,' explained Mark Walden, the programming manager for the chamber. He said the Oak Park area has 12 different districts — some of them are already well known and others have their own organizations that host their own shopping events and festivals. The First Fridays events — held the first Friday of July, August, September and October — will highlight the others. Those events will be Aug. 1 at Madison Street, Sept. 5 at Southtown and Oct. 3 at Pleasant District. While the July event was held during the day due to the holiday, future First Fridays will take place in the evening. Melissa Mallison, the chamber's director of programming and membership, said businesses throughout the districts welcome the prospect of boosted visibility. 'People are delighted,' she said. 'The businesses we talked to were thrilled to get the foot traffic. And it's all areas that don't have an organized arts alliance.' Information is at
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First Post
05-07-2025
- Business
- First Post
Parade pageantry and public protests: How US celebrated the 4th of July
Patriotic pageantry and public protests marked the 249th anniversary of the independence of the United States as Trump signed the controversial spending bill into law. read more Demonstrators take part in a protest against President Donald Trump's policies on Friday, July 4, 2025 in Los Angeles. AP Patriotic pageantry and public protests marked the 249th anniversary of the independence of the United States. While Washington, DC celebrated the Fourth of July with an Independence Day Parade, thousands took to the streets and voiced their stance against US President Donald Trump's administration. Meanwhile, Trump supporters joined the parade with MAGA hats on their heads, with some celebrating the Big Beautiful Bill turning into a law. 'It's been the best year I've ever had in business, I think, with the changes Trump has made. We're going to see our most profitable year ever, even with some of the higher prices that we have to pay in tariffs,' one of the supporters told the Associated Press. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Protests took over the capital While the marching bands passed along Washington's Constitution Avenue, a group of more than 20 people gathered to demonstrate against Trump's policy. The protesters read out from the Declaration of Independence. 'I think it's important for us to go back to our founding documents, to our mission statement and refocus on that,' said one of the organisers, Jason Hellenberg. When asked how he feels about the trade war initiated by Trump Tariffs, Hellenberg told CTV News that he doesn't appreciate what he calls the 'Trump trade war,' adding that Canada and the US 'have worked together for hundreds of years, and there's no reason to screw up that relationship.' However, there were still Americans who were celebrating the day with a renewed sense of patriotism. However, both the protesters and supporters expressed to CTV their hope for a better future for their country.
India Today
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Photos: Protests and celebrations mark a divided Fourth of July in America
The Fourth of July traditionally brings parades, backyard barbecues, and fireworks lighting up the night sky a celebration of all things this Independence Day may feel different for many Americans. Around the country, there are protests against Trump's polices, and in places like Southern California, where immigration raids have rattled communities, some July Fourth celebrations were the celebrations and demonstrations, the historical significance remains: On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence, declaring the colonies' break from British rule. NOW: President Trump and Melania do the Trump dance on the balcony as the Marine band plays to commemorate Independence DaySo thankful these two are living in the White House! Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) July 5, 2025advertisement President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump danced along to the music as fireworks illuminated the National Mall. The duo joined in the festive spirit during the Independence Day celebration in Washington, of the US Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps perform during Fourth of July festivities at the National Archives, Friday, July 4, 2025, in in an antique car prepare to take part in the Independence Day Parade in Santa US citizen Kamilla Giliazova, from Russia, poses for a portrait following the Naturalization Ceremony on Independence Day at George Washington's Mount VernonPeople stand and take the Naturalization Oath of Allegiance on Independence Day at George protesting against President Donald Trump and his policies march toward the White HouseMembers of the Southern California Surf Academy prepare to participate in the Independence Day Parade in Santa Monica, Calif. on Friday.A demonstrator takes part in a protest at City Hall against President Donald Trump's policies.- EndsMust Watch
USA Today
04-07-2025
- Climate
- USA Today
Deadly storm leaves path of chaos and destruction in New Jersey
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy confirmed the storms had killed residents and Accuweather reported three deaths. A quick-moving but violent thunderstorm carved a path of chaos and destruction across Central Jersey on the evening of July 3, causing at least one fatality and leaving thousands without power. The storm struck during the evening rush hour on the day before the Fourth of July. According to the National Weather Service, a wind gust of 62 mph was recorded. One-inch hailstones were reported near Bethlehem and Easton in the Lehigh Valley. Gov. Phil Murphy confirmed the storms had killed residents and Accuweather reported three deaths. In a post on X, Murphy said, "I have been briefed on the severe thunderstorm and heavy winds that hit Central Jersey this evening and resulted in fatalities. The towns of Plainfield, North Plainfield, Bound Brook, and Dunellen sustained damage, among others. "If you're in the area, please stay inside and avoid any downed trees, power lines, or burning transformers. We are in close touch with local mayors and emergency response officials to provide support." A state of emergency was declared in Plainfield. The city's Independence Day Parade, concert, and fireworks have been canceled.
Boston Globe
02-07-2025
- Boston Globe
Ahead of annual Fourth of July fireworks show, officials say ‘be vigilant — but not fearful'
Advertisement Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble said state police will deploy a 'comprehensive, multi-layered security plan.' Specialized units and canines will be around the site, while the marine unit and air wing will patrol from the water and the air. Like in Ted Docks, of FBI Boston, said his office is not tracking specific threats in response to recent 'However, we must remain vigilant and mindful of the significance of this holiday,' he said. 'Boston will continue to be a symbolic target due to our many patriotic and historical landmarks.' Advertisement Docks added that the FBI Boston Joint Terrorism Task Force will actively scrub available intelligence, and integrate itself with state and local law enforcement partners around the Esplanade. 'Everyone here has tried to strike the right balance between an appropriate security posture and the ability for everyone to have a fun day,' Docks said. Officials encouraged visitors to report any suspicious activity. When people speak up, it decreases the chance of mass acts of violence, Docks said. 'We want you to be vigilant — but not fearful,' he said. Officials are also urging people to take advantage of public transit. Transit Police Chief Kenneth Green said alcohol consumption while on the MBTA 'will not be tolerated.' Kwon said to 'leave the fireworks to the professionals,' given that Massachusetts law prohibits the possession, use, and sale of fireworks without a permit and certification. Officials encouraged visitors to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and keep track of personal belongings. 'Really try to tank up. Pregame a bit with water,' said James Hooley, the Chief of Boston Emergency Medial Services. Advertisement Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular The live concert — featuring the famous Boston Pops orchestra — will be at the Hatch Shell and start Friday at 7 p.m. Fireworks start at 9:40 p.m. The free event is based on a first-come, first-served basis. The event will be broadcast live on WHDH-TV (Channel 7) from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., and broadcast nationally on The CW Networks at 9 p.m. Boston Harborfest The three-day event features an opening ceremony in Downtown Crossing, historical reenactments, and live musical performances. On Wednesday at 9:15 p.m., fireworks will be launched at Boston's Long Wharf, with viewing points along the Inner harbor. Independence Day Parade On Friday at 9 a.m., a parade will kick off from City Hall Plaza and proceed along Tremont Street with a brief stop at the Granary Burying Ground to honor historic figures. The event is free and open to the public. Jessica Ma can be reached at
