Fireworks Fans Look for Fourth of July Celebrations in the Sky

Fireworks Fans Look for Fourth of July Celebrations in the Sky

by | Jul 3, 2021 | Events, Features, News

 

 

Many folks plan to watch fireworks displays online or on broadcast TV. One favorite coming back with gusto is Macy’s July 4th Fireworks Show. “Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular” will air on KGW starting at 8:00 pm. The show is returning this year to its pre-pandemic levels of pyrotechnics for July 4th. Below is a video from pre-covid times.

PBS will stream a show as well, check out this link for more info: https://www.pbs.org/a-capitol-fourth/. The show is broadcast to millions of viewers on PBS and streaming platforms as well as to our troops watching around the world on the American Forces Network. Where to watch: PBS, Sunday, July 4, from 8-9:30 p.m. ET. NPR member stations nationwide will broadcast the audio, and the show will also stream on Facebook, YouTube and on PBS’ webpage, and be on video on demand from July 4-18.

 

Below is a list from the Statesman Journal of other community firework displays that are set to return in 2021.

Detroit Strong Revival Celebration

A weekend of celebration including a barbeque, parade and pancake feed will finish up with fireworks over Detroit Lake.

When: Fireworks start at dusk, about 10 p.m., on Saturday, July 3.

Location: Detroit Lake.

Information: detroitlakeoregon.org/events/

Independence Days

The annual event will close each day with fireworks at dusk. A wristband must be purchased in advance and only 8,000 total will be available.

When: Fireworks start at dusk on Saturday and Sunday, July 3 – 4.

Location: Riverview Park, downtown Independence.

Cost: Wristband must be purchased in advance: $2 for ages six and older, free for ages five and younger.

Information: independencedays.org

Keizer: Mavericks League

The league may be new but the fireworks tradition at Volcanoes Stadium will continue this year with fireworks displays following the evening games on Friday and Sunday.

When: Following games on Friday and Sunday, July 2 and 4.

Location: Volcanoes Stadium, 6700 Field Of Dreams Way Northeast, Keizer.

Cost: Tickets start at $6.

Information: mavericksindependentleague.com

Read more:Salem isn’t banning fireworks. But officials urge caution ahead of Fourth of July weekend

Lincoln City

After putting a pause on over 60 years of fireworks last year, the annual display returns with two opportunities. A fireworks display will be offered Saturday over Devils Lake followed by the city-sponsored event on Sunday over Siletz Bay. Both shows offer plenty of viewing opportunities from parks or beaches in the vicinity.

When: Fireworks start at dusk both Saturday and Sunday, July 3 – 4.

Location: Devils Lake on Saturday, Siletz Bay on Sunday.

Information: oregoncoast.org

Mill City

The two-day Fourth of July Celebration in Mill City will feature the ‘Mutt Show’ on Saturday followed by a parade and fireworks display on Sunday.

When: Fireworks at dusk on Sunday, July 4.

Location: Kimmel Park, SE Sixth Ave.

Information: facebook.com/groups/MillCity4thCelebration/

Mt. Angel

A weekend of celebrations will be capped off with live music from the Marion County Citizens Band and a fireworks show on Sunday evening.

When: Concert at 8:30 p.m., fireworks at 10 p.m. Sunday, July 4.

Location: Sports fields between Kennedy High School and Mt. Angel Middle School.

Information:mtangelchamber.com

St. Paul Rodeo

The rodeo will close each day with fireworks near the arena following the evening musical performance.

When: Nightly at about 10 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday, June 30 – July 4.

Location: St. Paul Rodeo Arena, 20025 Fourth St. NE.

Cost: Tickets for evening events start at $20.

Information: stpaulrodeo.com

Stayton

A fireworks display will return to the Stayton High School grounds on Sunday evening.

When: About 10 p.m., Sunday, July 4.

Location: View from streets around Stayton High School, 757 W Locust St.

Information: facebook.com/Stayton4thofJulyCelebration/

Turner

Turner will be celebrating with a fireworks display over Turner Lake. No viewing of the fireworks will be allowed from on the lake. There will be a charge to park. Proceeds from parking will go to volunteer organizations from Cascade High School.

When: 9:45 p.m., Sunday, July 4.

Location: Turner Lake Park, 6801 Turner Road SE.

Cost: $10 to park at Turner Lake Park, $5 to park at businesses on Third Street.

Information: cityofturner.org

Experts Offer Safety Tips for Pets During Holiday Weekend

Experts Offer Safety Tips for Pets During Holiday Weekend

by | Jul 3, 2021 | Events, Features, News

Portland, OR. Did you know the Fourth of July is one of the busiest holidays for DoveLewis? From pets running away due to the loud noises to eating food they shouldn’t have. While fireworks, picnics, and other festivities can be fun for people, the events can be especially frightening and even dangerous for animals. According to experts at the DoveLewis Emergency and Critical Care Facility, loud noises from exploding fireworks, unfamiliar guests, as well as fire hazards, and holiday food can result in stress and injury to pets.

It’s important to keep pets safe during Fourth of July celebrations.

“Make sure pets are safely secured indoors and in a cool place if left at home during Fourth of July celebrations,” said Dr. Sarah Tauber, a veterinarian at DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital. “Keep your dogs on a leash if you’re out watching fireworks, and keep a safe distance away from any live fireworks shows.”

Pet Hazards:

  • Fireworks danger – Animals can mistake fireworks in shiny packaging for food. Additionally, flames from falling fireworks and sparklers can burn pets.
  • Lost pets – When pets are scared by fireworks or loud noises, they can jump fences or dig their way out of yards, causing them to get lost.
  • Stress – Exploding fireworks, house guests, or routine interruptions can cause stress and anxiety. Stressed pets may experience vomiting, diarrhea, gastrointestinal issues, a decrease in appetite, or aggression.
  • Food – Pets often sneak food during a holiday barbecue or picnic, which can lead to digestion mishaps. Many foods (chocolate, grapes, onions, etc.) can be toxic to animals, while other foods (corn cobs, chicken bones, etc.) can get stuck in the intestines and require surgery.

Safety Tips:

  • Safely secure pets indoors while fireworks are going off. If you have to take your dog outside, make sure to use a leash.
  • If your pet is extra sensitive to loud noises, do not leave your pet alone for extended periods of time. It’s best to keep them in a quiet, sheltered, and escape-proof room or crate. Create your own noise and block outside sights and sounds by lowering blinds, turning on the TV, or playing soothing music.
  • Keep all used and unused fireworks away from animals at all times.
  • Make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing identification tags so that you have a better chance of being reunited in the event that your pet gets lost.
  • If your pet is sensitive to noise, talk to your veterinarian in advance about whether the use of a mild sedative is appropriate.
  • Keep all food out of pets’ reach and make sure trash bags are tightly secured.

If your pet needs emergency veterinary care, DoveLewis is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. It is located at 1945 NW Pettygrove Street in Portland or call at 503.228.7281.

Americans Urged to Support Members of the Armed Forces on Independence Day

Americans Urged to Support Members of the Armed Forces on Independence Day

by | Jul 3, 2021 | Events, Features, News

Portland, OR. Every year, Independence Day serves as a reminder that our freedom is due to the service and sacrifices of the men and women of the Armed Forces. In the last 16 years, 2.5 million men and women have been deployed overseas, all serving voluntarily. They all face the challenges of military service: from multiple deployments that separate family members to recovering from the wounds of war.

If you need help, you will find resources and organizations that help veterans and their families below. If you can donate, supporters say you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of courageous military families, starting today.

Returning Veterans Project Serving Oregon & SW Washington:

We support the healing and health of our veterans and military communities by connecting post-9/11 war zone veterans, service members, and their military families with free, confidential mental and physical health services. Returning Veterans Project (RVP) clients use our online directory to access individualized care from a network of highly qualified volunteer health providers, without any fees or strings attached. Since our founding in 2005, we are removing the barriers to mental and physical health services so that those we serve can have free, confidential access to the care they need.

Returning Veterans

Oregon Paralyzed Veterans of America:

Oregon Paralyzed Veterans of America (OPVA), incorporated in 1976, is a chapter of Paralyzed Veterans of America. OPVA serves the needs of its Members–U.S. military veterans with spinal cord injury or disease (SCI/D)–& helps them enjoy the highest possible quality of life. OPVA, Members, Associate Members, Family Members, Volunteers, & allied organizations work to provide leadership and advocacy in • Improving health care & SCI/D research & education • Protecting veterans rights & benefits • Improving awareness of disability rights • Offering sports & health-promotion activities • Increasing accessibility & removing architectural barriers in Oregon, SW Washington, & Idaho. A 501(c)(3) charity, OPVA relies on grants and donations from members of the public.

Oregon Paralyzed Veterans of American

Travis Manion Foundation:

Dedicated to 1st Lt Travis Manion, USMC, who made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety of his patrol in 2007, The Travis Manion Foundation unites and strengthens communities of veterans and families of the fallen by training, developing, and highlighting each individual’s strengths as role models through programs, events and other training opportunities.

Dog Tag Inc.

Dog Tag Inc. (DTI) is a fellowship program for service-disabled, military spouses, and caregivers who are looking to find community outside of the military. This five month fellowship offers learning labs and a more holistic, wellness-oriented approach to finding personal and professional fulfillment in the civilian world.

 

Miriam’s Kitchen

Miriam’s Kitchen strives to end chronic homelessness through four key elements that starts with dignity, happens through belonging, continues through change, and is completed with housing. They connect with homeless guests, by providing them nutritious meals, the accessibility to work with case managers to help build a community where each individual feels safe getting the help that they need, and partnering with other service providers and government agencies to change the way homeless services are delivered in Washington. 

Miriam’s Kitchen staff poses for photo.

The Skatepark Project

The Skatepark Project, formerly the Tony Hawk Foundation, has been working with municipalities and community groups to help develop public skateparks that support disadvantaged communities and at-risk children. For Tony Hawk, the organization’s Founder, skateparks provide a safe and inspiring avenue for skaters to practice and excel at their sport, and the process of developing their local skatepark encourages and teaches young people about how to make positive changes within their own communities.

The Skatepark Project

Blue Star Families

With over 200 events a year, Blue Star Families is always in need of passionate volunteers. Blue Star Families’ wide range of programs includes career development for military spouses, fun and educational events for children, caregiver support and most importantly, the chance to build community with their Blue Star Neighbors – individuals, business owners and organizations who create a network of support for military families. Learn more about different volunteer positions that are currently available.

Blue Star Families

Homes for Our Troops

Housing presents special challenges for disabled veterans who require wheelchair accessibility or other adaptive measures. HFOT builds new mortgage-free homes for disabled veterans so that they, in turn, can build new lives. There are many ways to help HFOT including, acting as a fundraising volunteer, becoming a building partner or running a full or half-marathon with Team HFOT.

 

HEADstrong Foundation

The HEADstrong Foundation offers a wide variety of support to cancer patients and their families. Through programs that offer nourishing meals and entertainment to patients, residential housing to the families who may be far from home while their loved one is pursuing a life-saving treatment, and financial aid and a relief fund program to help get through the financial hardships that may arise with a cancer diagnosis.

HEADstrong Foundation

Team RWB

Team Red, White & Blue helps veterans increase their mental and physical health together as a team. Volunteers at local chapters offer fitness activities, social gatherings and community service events that help facilitate the building of strong local connections with other members and organizations within their communities.

 

National Military Family Association

The National Military Family Association was founded in 1969 by a group of military wives who wanted to make sure their widowed friends were properly taken care of. Today, they continue their now wide range of support through a multitude of resources and programs including a Spouse Scholarship program, and Operation Purple which offers a children’s camp, family retreats, healing adventures and buddy camp.

 

VA Voluntary Service

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has many ways to volunteer time or donate funds to help our nation’s veterans, including the Volunteer Transportation Network, Welcome Home Events, Stand Down for Homeless Veterans, National Cemeteries Volunteer, National Salute to Veteran Patients and Student Volunteer Program initiatives.

 

Veterans Coming Home

Veterans Coming Home, a campaign to bridge the civilian-military divide through public media, has teamed up with nonprofit partners to aggregate a wealth of resources for active military service members, veterans, and their families. Find assistance with everything from healthcare to healing through the arts. 

 

The Military and Veterans Crisis Line

Help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year for veterans in crisis and their families and friends. If you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms of emotional distress, including thoughts of suicide, immediate help is available by calling 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1). Confidential help is also available in a chat online, or by sending a text message to 838255.

 

Gary Sinise Foundation

This foundation currently has seven programs serving defenders, veterans, first responders, their families and those in need. R.I.S.E. provides adaptive homes and vehicles, and wheel/track chairs; Lt. Dan Band lifts morale for service members at home and abroad; Resiliency + Relief Outreach is for those recovering from trauma and in urgent need; Invincible Spirit Festivals are family celebrations held at military medical hospitals; the Ambassadors Council raises awareness; and Serving Heroes feeds service members in transit at major airports. The foundation supports numerous charities as well.

Oregon Humane Society Breaks Ground on New Buildings

Oregon Humane Society Breaks Ground on New Buildings

by | Jun 26, 2021 | Events, Features, News

Portland, OR. The Oregon Humane Society celebrated the groundbreaking of its New Road Ahead Project on June 16th. This is the most ambitious expansion of programs and services in its 153-year history. On hand to break ground were OHS Chief Operating Officer Brian August, Campaign Vice-Chair Marc Grignon, Honorary Campaign Chair Dolorosa Margulis, Board Chair Dave Hansen, OHS President and CEO Sharon Harmon, Campaign Chair Lynn Loacker, Dean of the OSU Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine Dr. Susan Tornquist, and OHS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Stephen Kochis (Photo credit, Teran Buckner with Phido Photography)

Honorary Campaign Chair Dolorosa Margulis, OHS President and CEO Sharon Harmon, OHS Board Chair Dave Hansen and New Road Ahead Fundraising Chair Lynn Loacker.

The New Road Ahead includes the construction of two new buildings next to OHS’s Ernest C. Swigert Animal Shelter. Due to open July 2022, the facilities will house a Behavior Rehabilitation and Rescue Center, Animal Crimes Forensic Center, and a Community Teaching Hospital. “The Community Teaching Hospital will give local veterinarians a critical option to offer clients who are not be able to afford care for their pets,” says Dr. Stephen Kochis, OHS Chief Medical Officer. “These situations can sometimes lead to people giving up their pets, delaying care or opting for euthanasia. This is heartbreaking for pet owners as well as veterinarians and we are looking forward to filling this important need with the Community Teaching Hospital.”

Nearly $31 million has been raised of the $36 million goal. More information about how to contribute to the project can be found at oregonhumane.org/newroadahead.

OHS President and CEO Sharon Harmon and Former OHS Board Chair Marc Grignon

OHS Board members Dr. John Gustavsson and Betty Norrie celebrate with the Board of Directors and New Road Ahead committees.

OHS Board Chair Dave Hansen, OHS President and CEO Sharon Harmon and New Road Ahead Fundraising Chair Lynn Loacker toasting the future of OHS.

From Oregon Humane Society:

The Oregon Humane Society rescues, heals and adopts more than 11,000 pets each year. We never place a time limit on how long cats, dogs and other pets stay at our shelter. OHS relies on donations to support our adoption, education, and animal rescue programs.

Neighborhood House Raises $185,000 With Virtual Fundraiser

Neighborhood House Raises $185,000 With Virtual Fundraiser

by | Jun 26, 2021 | Events, Features, News

Portland, OR. Neighborhood House‘s largest fundraiser of the year, the Welcome Home Hour of Hope, was a success this year. Although the event was entirely virtual for the second year in a row, community members stepped up and helped raise $20,000 more than the original goal, for a resounding $185,000. Jared Shuman (NH Board Member), Dr. Doreen Dodgen-Magee, Chris Chiacchierini (Executive Director) helped hosted the online event. (Photo Credit, Ellen Field)

Eric Wiser (Neighborhood House Board President)

The evening featured stories of everyday heroes whose actions and efforts during the pandemic were anything but ordinary. From volunteering at our Food Pantry to support its recent shift to food delivery to raising funds to provide tablets to low-income families with preschoolers, to providing affordable, safe child care to essential workers, our neighbors made a huge difference this year.

Liz Burns, Development Data Base Administrator

Jared Shuman

Attendees joined from across the country to hear these stories, participate in some Hour of Hope Trivia, and more. Neighborhood House is so grateful to our community for making our important work possible.

From Neighborhood House:

Neighborhood House brings neighbors together to reduce hunger and homelessness and to educate both young and old, strengthening our community by providing resources to support self-reliance, economic independence, and dignity in people of all ages and backgrounds.