Page 12 - July 2020 Wheel Final

ARE JULY 4 CELEBRATIONS CANCELED?
By Rashawnda Atkinson

The coronavirus has changed life as National Park Service. According to User Authorization waiver on file at
we knew it and the Fourth of July the event’s website, The National Resident Services. Residents who
celebrations are no exception. While Independence Day Parade cancelled completed the form ahead of time
several localities already cancelled its participation in the 2020 celebra- will receive permissions via their fob
their celebrations for the day, some— tion for July 4. access to enter the Rooftop Observa-
like the nation’s capital and Alexan- tion Deck. The COVID-19-related
dria—are trekking forward with a The Salute to America event will oc- restrictions and Rules and Regula-
few modifications of course. cur at White House on the South tions for the rooftop use still apply.
Lawn and Ellipse on Saturday, July 4, Those who are 9-years-old or young-
Virginia with the start time pending at the time er should be in the care of a responsi-
City of Alexandria of publication. Music, flyovers and ble person per the City’s childcare
The City plans to host a virtual birth- military recognition will be followed guidelines. Access to one or both
day party for USA/Alexandria Birth- by an address from the President. Rooftop Observation Decks may be
day Celebration on Saturday, July 11. Once his address concludes, a fire- restricted by Management at any time
No other details were released prior works display on the National Mall due to current weather conditions,
to the printing deadline. For updates, will conclude the evening’s events. maintenance or repair needs or other
visit http://apps.alexandriava.gov/ factors deemed critical to the Associ-
Calendar/Detail.aspx?si=29533. ation. These restrictions take prece-
dence over open-access hours so plan
Mount Vernon accordingly.
You might catch a glimpse of the first
President of the United States, Gazebos
George Washington, should you ven- You might also want to rent a gazebo
ture out to the historic estate. In addi- or party room for a small gathering
tion to a presidential visit, visitors with loved ones. Plan ahead as all
can enjoy the Red, White and Blue offices will close on July 4 and the
Concert that features the National hours vary for July 3. Print a form
Concert Band and a wreath-laying from the Other Helpful Documents
ceremony. Some portions of the event section of the website’s Residents
are most likely cancelled such as the tab.
daytime fireworks and naturalization
ceremony. Plug in your electric grill or use one
of the picnic areas for lunch or din-
The event requires attendees 10 years ner. Follow local laws and communi-
and older to wear a face covering ty rules and regulations regarding
while entering buildings. Visitors will these common spaces to keep your
not be mandated to wear masks in the Fun’s still to be had on July 4! event in compliance and to reduce
outside areas of the estate as long as the chances of spreading COVID-19.
they are social distancing and are PBS will broadcast its annual concert
comfortable without a mask accord- A Capitol Fourth on Saturday, July 4, Bought Some Fireworks?
ing to a Mount Vernon representa- from 8 – 9:30 p.m. The 40-year-old The City of Alexandria prohibits fire-
tive. The event will occur rain or tradition features performances from works of any kind. The City’s web-
shine, so plan ahead and enjoy! several musical guests across multi- site states that “it is unlawful for any-
ple genres and it’s traditionally fol- one to store, offer for sale, expose for
Washington, DC Celebration lowed by fireworks. sale, sell at retail, use or explode any
The Capitol Hill Community 4th of fireworks (including sparklers) within
July Parade will still happen although July 4 at WAL the City limits.” This goes for all resi-
not on its usual route on 8th Street. Rooftop Observation Deck dents as well as those visiting or
Instead, organizers plan to create a Even if you plan to stay at WAL, working in City. The Fire Marshal
virtual parade for viewers to enjoy! there are a few things to keep in will confiscate all fireworks found in
For details, visit https:// mind. You might be able to catch a your possession if caught. These of-
www.capitolhill4thparade.com/. This glimpse of the DC fireworks from the fenses are Class One misdemeanors
parade is different from the nationally rooftop of Bldg. 1 or Bldg. 2 if you and may result in a $2,500 fine and/or
-broadcasted parade co-hosted by the have a Rooftop Observation Decks up to 12 months in prison.

Page 12 Wheel July 2020