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Fireworks show canceled in Mission Viejo per Governor’s recommendation

fireworks canceled

Today, Governor Gavin Newsom announced a strong recommendation to eliminate holiday social gatherings in response to the ever-increasing spike in COVID-19 hospitalizations. This is mirrored by cancellations across Southern California, all intended to preserve public health, safety and welfare. Notably, other Orange County cities canceling their firework shows include; Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills, Aliso Viejo and others.   

We will adhere with State and County guidelines so as to help slow the spread of COVID-19 hospitalizations. To protect the community, the Mission Viejo Activities Committee and City of Mission Viejo are implementing the City Disaster Directors order to cancel the July 4th fireworks show.

The show was originally scheduled to take place with social distancing, restricted access and recommendations for residents to view the show from home or street side.

However, with the continued spike in coronavirus cases and to ensure the health and safety of the community, the fireworks show will be cancelled in respect to the Governor’s recommendation.

Comments

Submitted by Joseph Dunkle on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 9:22 am

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So we cannot celebrate America's birthday and our independence because of a radical ill informed governor? Yet protesting, rioting, looting by "young people" was okay for weeks straight...

Submitted by Marcia Nelson on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 10:43 am

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Of course there is a surge in California !! The Governor Newsomllini forgot to mention that he is importing covid patients from Mexico.
On Tuesday at OC BOS meeting, Dr Clayton Chau admitted, when questioned by Supervisor Don Wagner, that OC took in COVID Patients from IMPERIAL COUNTY (this County is next to Mexico and had many sick Mexicans checking into our healthcare system) and We paid the price for it! Canceling fireworks in our city is a mistake, wish we had real leaders in our community :(

Submitted by Eileen Roth on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 10:44 am

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Thank you for making the proper decision, based on science and health, to cancel the fireworks. How hard can it be to live without a fireworks display? And how hard can it be to wear a mask. Small inconveniences in order to help contain the spread of this life threatening virus. I am sure all of us who value our lives and the lives of our family members, and the medical people in Mission Viejo will be happy to hear their lives will not be put in further jeopardy by this important decision.

Submitted by David Miller on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 11:15 am

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Land of the lockdown because of the afraid. For those that are afraid, please realize that there are many in the medical community that can explain, using numbers and common sense, why we are involved in a huge overreaction. There's been too much panic porn by the mainstream media that is unfortunately being used for political purposes. As an individual, be aware and live your life.

Submitted by KM on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 11:29 am

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Am I missing something here? So we can go to Costco, Walmart, Target, grocery stores, liquor stores and get an abortion.... but not attend church and other stores and restaurants are mandated closed... as if anyone's business is not essential to their livelihood and wellbeing. We are not allowed to gather peacefully for BBQs with friends, but riots, protests, looting, shooting, and ugly violence is permitted across our nation without consequence. This is all backwards and a mixed message! Where is the concern for LIFE in these matters?

The hospitals are NOT being overrun... I know, because I have called. In fact, they are losing money because people are afraid to go. I support people to stay home and wear a mask if that is what they choose - but we should have the freedom to choose. Yes, there are going to be spikes in the virus. We are testing more, thus more positive results - that was expected - it's a virus, but there are viable treatments and less people are dying... we flattened the curve as they wanted us to. Somehow flattening the curve became eradicate it forever. Not dying is NOT LIVING..... There is risk in everything we do in life - like driving a car. This is government overreach. Stop living in fear!

Submitted by Alex S on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 11:31 am

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I am glad I'm not the only person in this city who thinks that the fringe on both sides are overly verbose and can't see the reality happening in our nation (and yes, our CITY) past their blinding obsession with their political parties agendas.

I am quite disappointed in this cancellation (and yes, both spellings for canceled is correct; try verifying your own thoughts before spewing judgement) as I had prime viewing from my balcony with no risk of being around crowds. But this is the right decision.

I thought much of the same as people keep saying; people can watch from their cars, police can monitor high risk crowding areas (not truly possible), people can watch from their backyards, roofs, etc. Nearly all of these views are naive or from a selfish/privileged mindset.

Like I said, I also thought these things, but then thought about the reality beyond my selfish bias. People WILL crowd. People WILL come from all over Orange County (especially with other shows cancelled). They do every year. Before I lived here, I came from a neighboring area. This is simply the reality because people are not seeing the large-scale effect of their individual actions and choices. They are not being collectively responsible. And they're not recognizing the non-political facts that we have a serious medical problem. And because of the failure of the collective individuals to act responsibly and intelligibly, it is sad that these measures of our elected representatives had to be taken.

Disappointed, but I appreciate that our elected officials are willing to make this choice despite the rather opponents who put their politics above human lives.

Submitted by Be Patriotic on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 12:19 pm

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For two weeks my neighbors have been preparing for a massive party for 50+ guests at their house to watch the fireworks. If you want to yell at someone for ruining your Fourth of July, trampling on your freedom, and not treating you like an adult, yell at people like these. Canceling the fireworks will hopefully cancel many of the dangerous events planned by people who refuse to act responsibly and ruin things for the rest of us. Be patriotic and support our citizens in authority for making a responsible but very tough decision.

Submitted by Dave on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 12:40 pm

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To all the people who think the city made the right call. Why should those of us who know how to avoid infection suffer because some of you are terrified of everything and want to hide in your bathrooms?

If you think someplace is unsafe for you - JUST DON'T GO THERE.

But, don't attempt to impose your beliefs on others. If a Fireworks show celebrating the founding of our country was held and you thought it unsafe, then JUST STAY HOME. This decision is proof that our City Council do not believe in personal freedom and responsibility and instead want to impose a nanny state on the citizens of Mission Viejo.

Hopefully, we will remember the City Council demeaning and devaluing what it means to be an American and throw them out in November.

Also, to those who think that people should not have strong feelings about this matter - this is a fundamental symbol of our nation. I feel that we should show courage in the face of adversity and celebrate, not hide under the covers. That said, I strongly support your right to announce that you want to stay home and hide. That's your CHOICE. If the City of MV had any sense, the would allow all citizens to make their CHOICE and not decide for them.

Submitted by Sincerely on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 12:56 pm

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While some here claim they are "glad" for safety rules put in place, how would one trust that they are somehow "safe" when the rules are so screwed up? The simple fact that those permitted to protest and riot means those people are possibly going to public places like the permitted stores, and other permitted places spreading the virus. If it is so contagious, it would seem reasonable and like the most sensible thing to do, would be to stop all protests and riots first because those events would be most prone to involve spitting, touching, yelling in faces and not wearing masks consistly, which would be the fastest virus spreaders. Moreso, than church attendees who try to follow rules in general as part of their religious ideals. This double standard alone causes suspicion of honesty about either the virus severity, or the curiosity of why governors and mayors would completely lack concern for protestors and rioters OR allow it. And why those most likely to comply would be told that harsher mandates would apply to those who already have been complying.

Submitted by Cynthia Carlson on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 2:02 pm

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If everyone would have cooperated back when this all started maybe things would be different by now, geez put a mask on, wash your hands, and social distance, I believe it's not much to ask of individuals. I for one CARE about my community and fellow neighbors and will follow the guidelines recommended.

Submitted by Richard on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 4:21 pm

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Talk about bowing down to a tyrant governor, so sad to see our freedoms taken away on our celebration of independence. Absolutely disgusting and disgraceful.

Submitted by Jean on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 4:24 pm

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It is so amazing to see how many selfish people live in Mission Viejo who don’t wear masks. The main reason to wear a mask is so you don’t spread the virus to other people. By not wearing a mask, you are clearly stating to all who see no mask on your face, that you only care about your own self! How embarrassing that must be to admit to yourself! But you do so ever time you don’t wear a mask. You don’t care if you spread the virus to the employee at the grocery store, to the checker at the hardware store, etc. What happened to caring about other people? And by wearing a mask you help to stop Covid 19 and help people get their jobs back. So if you go ahead and keep being selfish and don’t wear a mask then just know you are perpetuating this situation and it will never end!!!

Listen to science and health experts!

And by the way if a doctor or nurse has to wear a mask for their entire shift, surely you can sgow thar you care about someone besides yourself by wearing a mask for 30 minutes at the grocery store!!!!

Thanks MV for caring about the lives of it’s citizens over the ridiculous selfish complainers on here.

Do your part everyone to stop Covid 19 -wear a mask and take pride in the reality that when you do so you show you care for other people! And you show your own children what a good example you are as a kind human being!

Submitted by KazVav on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 4:44 pm

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I just read a post on social media by John Cox originally posted by LAPD with a picture of protestors in LA yesterday, July 1, 2020. According to Newsom, 'they have a right to protest'.

I am not alone in feeling that those of us also trying to celebrate our Freedom on July 4th are being restricted and am disappointed that all cities in south orange county have chosen not to display American patriotism by cancelling the July 4th Firework Displays. Most families are responsible and I am convinced, will take precautions.

It appears that there are double standards in allowing protestors the right to assemble yet denying and depriving families of the annual July 4th celebrations and firework displays.

My guess is that all these fireworks the Cities have purchased will now be destroyed.

Submitted by Genny on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 6:12 pm

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What a shame that our city cowed to media hysteria. I believe Covid is a real threat, and that masks and distancing are important. But if you close the park, people can still watch from their yards or streets, or even from the safety of their cars. This was a knee jerk reaction that didn’t consider available options.

As to those worried about spelling, canceled or cancelled is the past tense of the verb to cancel. Both spellings are correct; Americans favor canceled, while cancelled (two Ls) is preferred in British English and other dialects.

Submitted by Sunny M. on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 6:31 pm

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Thank you Harry Hafer for your service and to others for having a voice of reason. It’s absurd that anyone can politicize a pandemic. Have respect for your neighbors and fellow Americans. That’s what America is all about! Be united and be grateful for all you have especially after so many have sacrificed their lives. This country has laws, rules and regulations, it’s not “free”. Your fight against a piece of cloth that you have to wear for a limited amount of time is pathetic, selfish and arrogant.

Submitted by EllieJ on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 8:24 pm

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You people are embarrassing. The city has made this decision, not the governor. They are just so afraid of you all that they couldn’t “own” the decision outright and had to passively state that they are complying with a recommendation. Fireworks should be cancelled. Orange County, south in particular, has been so crappy about protecting each other as a community, that to slow the spread these steps have to be taken. Can’t believe you cry babies don’t get it. Cities are cancelling fireworks because the huge crowds they draw—and everyone would crowd the one city in the county that has fireworks. Duh! The governor is doing a great job, you just can’t see past your stupid politics. It’s common sense, it’s not political. You are free to catch the virus if you want, I don’t really care, no skin off my back. But you are a sorry human being if you don’t care about stopping the spread in your community. YOU stay home if you don’t want to wear a mask, we responsible people shouldn’t have to. What about my freedom to be protected from your spit? It’s your own fault for proving to the city that you can’t be responsible. The city is just to afraid of you to say so. You all sound like a bunch of hicks. It’s one friggen year. You’ll survive with a crappy 4th. At least you or a loved one isn’t spending this 4th flighting for their lives in a hospital—ALONE.

Submitted by Saran on Thu, 07/02/2020 - 11:12 pm

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Most likely cancelled to funnel the budget money for fireworks into the city budget so our “masters” can get paid.

Anyone want to protest 2020 style with me Saturday? Anyone know where mayor and council live? Let’s use the tactics of our traitors against them!!!!!

Submitted by Ray on Fri, 07/03/2020 - 9:34 am

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OC hospitals are under light loads relative to the level of problem that they planned for. We can, and will likely still get there. I suggest that unregulated crowds may push us in that direction. However, couldn't there be a compromise where the fireworks play out in widely visible areas without the crowds? It certainly won't be as exciting, but will still honor the day. How does this affect (LARGE) private fireworks displays?

Submitted by Doug on Fri, 07/03/2020 - 10:00 am

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I'm going to miss the fireworks too, but fully support the decision to cancel them. Good job city council and activities committee.

Blustering and complaining isn't going to change the reality of the pandemic. Agree with the comments above, we KNOW how to wash our hands, but it's not working. we KNOW how to social distance (responding to the comment "we are adults and know how to social distance". Then why aren't we doing them?

There are places in the world that have this contained. They test, keep their distance, wash their hands, and wear facemasks. Bottom line, it seems to work in those areas. Places like Florida, Arizona , Texas etc (you know them) haven't and the growth is unmistakeable.

If we are such entitled brats that we are above doing these things by ourselves, I personally resent THAT more than I resent the government having to step in. Both of which are a shame.

In America we have the freedom to be stupid, ignore science or fact, but when your right to be stupid impacts the health, welfare, economy of the entire population, it's time to grow up. I agree, we are ADULTS and know how to do these things without daddy government treating us like children. So how about we stop complaining and just do it without being told.

Submitted by Garber on Fri, 07/03/2020 - 11:28 am

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Well what do all of you expect. He's a Democrat and all of the Democrats voted him in as Governor of California. Maybe next election you all should rethink who your voting for. I mean really.

Submitted by John on Fri, 07/03/2020 - 12:08 pm

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Thank you for making this choice which protects us all, even the ones complaining about it. This won’t go away until we do everything we can. It’s sad people care more about their fun than health. Ya, none of this is fun but it’s reality.

Submitted by Wade on Fri, 07/03/2020 - 12:52 pm

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Let's just call it a protest, instead of a fireworks show. That way the show can go on. Unbelievable, you cant continue a show a large majority of people can see from their homes or from smaller groupings in the park.

It's a sad world we live in now.

Submitted by Jeffrey on Fri, 07/03/2020 - 3:54 pm

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Thank you so much Gov Newsom, you worthless jellyfish! All of you liberal jack nuts have turned this into nothing more than a political engine!! Worthless politicians.

Submitted by Dave on Fri, 07/03/2020 - 6:38 pm

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To EllieJ and all of the other panicked people who are drinking the Newsom Kool-Aid. You are free to stay home and not celebrate our country's founding. My guess you don't care about America in the first place. That's fine, but some of us feel this country is a great place and we want to honor our traditions and founding fathers.

It is well understood that outside events where there is air movement and greater space between people are generally safe. If you don't belive me, look at statements to that effect for NIH and the CDC. The risk outdoors in minimal. Not zero and that is why attendance is not mandatory. However, our cowardly city and City Council feel they must impose their will on the citizens who just want to view an organized celebration. If they had made this decision earlier and nullified the law against individuals setting off fireworks, that might have been an alternative, but they are nanny state big government liberals at heart. Apparently the City of Mission Viejo hates freedom.

This is not about Democrats vs. Republicans. It is about forcing people forgo a long standing celebration of our country's founding. Everyone should be able to agree that doing so is a good thing. To bad some are so afraid of the false narrative that "Covid will kill us all" that they cannot think for themselves.

I hope we remember in November and throw the bums out!

Submitted by MVMike on Fri, 07/03/2020 - 11:33 pm

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Without there being a street fair on Olympiad I don’t see the issue. People have to be responsible for their own Social distancing like they practice daily. The City was not offering a specific viewing site so we could have all watched from our favorite isolated locations. Now there will be a significant increase in personal illegal fireworks all over the city. I overheard big block party plans with fireworks bought in Santa Ana.

Submitted by Brandon on Sat, 07/04/2020 - 10:56 am

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Unfortunate. It certainly could have occurred with social distancing taken into consideration. Though I'm sure the political pressure was heavy, I do wish we could have stayed strong. I feel the city truly did want this to happen for us, but politics (not science) have a way of undermining even the best intentions. :-/

Submitted by Lisa on Sat, 07/04/2020 - 1:18 pm

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MV Govt just BOWED to the radicals who have infiltrated our Institutions of GOVT, EDUCATION, and JUSTICE. We will be SILENT NO LONGER.

Submitted by Philip Grayson on Sat, 07/04/2020 - 2:29 pm

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This probably has more to do with the name than people’s health. If ‘independence’ was changed to something more in line with the manifestos of some of the organizations Newsom purports to support, perhaps ‘Abolish the Nuclear Family Day’, or Reform the Police Day’, he would probably be on the next plane over here with his own set of sparklers.

Submitted by Kara on Sat, 07/04/2020 - 5:32 pm

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I cant believe our streetfair & firework display has been cancelled. Greg Raths, we need to fight this crap. We opted out of the Sanctuary BS, & we need to stop the madness. There is a recall for this useless control hungry inept Govenor. He along with other Govenors put COVID patients in our nursing homes, imports the sick from Mexico, flying them to multiple hospitals here. He also owns a Winery with Gordon Getty that is open for business this entire weekend. The lunacy doesn't ever end with this one. With a VIRUS that has a mortality rate of MAYBE 1%, it does not merit this continued abuse of power. It's insanity.

Submitted by Leroy A hall on Sun, 07/05/2020 - 5:36 pm

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First let me say that wearing a mask WILL NOT PREVENT YOU FROM CATCHING THE VIRUS! Wearing a mask for more than a few minutes without changing or sanitizing it creates a prime breeding ground for bacteria (masks are dark, warm and humid). Masks are only useful for those with the virus to prevent them from spreading it. Newsom is a joke and is harmful to the state I grew up in. His policies will bankrupt the state , lower property values, and increase crime. California, I am sorry for what the politicians have done to you, and hope the people wise up and start voting in people, and not politics.

Submitted by Tom Barr on Mon, 07/06/2020 - 4:41 pm

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Like the Revolutionary War

I wasn't around for the Revolutionary War but Saturday night was the closest we will ever get to the rockets red glare! Normally I find the occasional neighborhood firework irritating but Saturday night was awesome, easily the best display fireworks and anti-tyranny revolt. Thank you silent majority.

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