Celebrating America’s independence with American flags, traditional songs, and books like Frederick Douglass and the Fourth of July Oration by James Colaiaco displayed were all a part of Rancho San Diego Library’s event, Celebrate the USA / Independence Day Festival, held on June 27.
Librarian Branch Manager Brenna Ring shared a personal story amidst the activities that included crafting American flags, cakewalks, other activities, Americana music from Trails & Rails, and a parade.
Celebrating America’s independence with American flags, traditional songs, and books like Frederick Douglass and the Fourth of July Oration by James Colaiaco displayed were all a part of Rancho San Diego Library’s event, Celebrate the USA / Independence Day Festival, held on June 27.
Librarian Branch Manager Brenna Ring shared a personal story amidst the activities that included crafting American flags, cakewalks, other activities, Americana music from Trails & Rails, and a parade.
Ring’s ancestor, Joseph Bemis Sr., was a Revolutionary War soldier on guard at Cambridge College and Fort when General George Washington tried to walk by but Bemis stopped Washington to pony up the password to get by him. General Washington did just that and is rumored to have said “Quite right. Quite right.” As history reveals Washington defeated the British to help establish the birth of America and the celebration of Independence Day.
Librarian Frans Leppanen explained that this celebration started five years ago when a staff member asked why they did not just have an old fashioned Independence Day celebration. The library is closed on the actual holiday.
Leppanen was also leader of the parade of decorated bicycles and wagons that had 3-year-old Joaquim Naff winning a first place with his decorated tricycle. Others also won prizes.
Brianna Vannavong, from City Heights, was on hand doing patriotic crafts and cited her favorite part of the 4th being “the fireworks.” Six-year-old Rancho San Diego resident Mona Alrasheed, who was dressed head to toe in the stars and stripes theme, also said the fireworks as her favorite as well.
Members of the County of San Diego Sheriff’s Senior Volunteers manned a canopied table and handed out flyers on free vacation checks that are not only for the summer vacation period but all year around.
County of San Diego’s Animal Control also made a showing to answer any questions surrounding dogs and fireworks and a myriad of other questions.
An American flag cake and pizza were served but befitting the region’s culinary appetite tamales was also available from Antonia’s Kitchen.
The event showcased the Library’s offerings and solidified the Fourth of July mindset to youth.
