Fourth of July Special 2023

TUESDAY, JULY 4, 2023

Today’s Forecast 93°/60°

Fourth of July Special

Welcome to the Fourth of July Parade

By Leon Worden SCV Parade Committee Chair

Special to The Signal

Welcome to the parade! It’s a local tradition dating back to 1932, long before a section of Newhall became Valencia and portions of Saugus were renamed “Canyon Country.”

If you’re doing the math, this would be the 92nd annual parade if not for four blackout war years and a couple of Covid hiccups.

People came from miles around to participate in the 1932 parade, mostly on horseback. Our population has grown a hundred-fold since then, and we’re likely to see 100 times more cars than horses in this year’s parade.

And yet, in all those years and perhaps against all odds, the Santa Clarita Valley has remained a great place to live, work and play –with award-winning public schools, fun football rivalries, accessible parks, a vibrant business sector, our own local governance, and numerous nonprofit agencies that provide vital services, all surrounded by mountain scenery forever protected as “open space.”

That is what this year’s parade is all about: celebrating our freedoms as Americans and having a good time as we recognize some of the people and organizations that weave the fabric of our community.

We’re honored to be joined once again by the Vietnam Veterans Lost Patrol chapter in a lead position. It’s a special year for them: 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the armistice that ended America’s involvement and brought our POWs home. Ultimately, neither Vietnam honored the truce, and the war ended two years later when North Vietnamese tanks rolled into Saigon.

We also honor and cherish the memory of Duane Harte, one of the hardest working volunteers our community has ever known. He was instrumental in organizing the parade each year, and frankly, I don’t know how our volunteer parade committee continues to pull it off.

Finally, a word about a pair of unsung heroes: our grand marshals, Pamela and Dennis Verner. You might not know these humble community benefactors because they don’t draw a lot of attention to themselves. So, we’re doing it for them. Dennis and Pamela freely give their

How Santa Clarita residents can celebrate the Fourth

By Rylee Holwager and Perry Smith Signal Staff Writers

The

last into the night.

The following are brief summaries of the day’s festivities to make this Fourth of July one of the best: Santa Clarita Runners’ 39th Annual Independence Day Classic 5K, 10K and Kids K Run

This celebration of America’s independence will take place on Tuesday at Newhall Park preceding the city’s Fourth of July Parade. The Independence Day Classic welcomes people of all ages and abilities. The event features a 5K run/walk, a 10K run for adults and a Kids K run for children.

See EVENTS, P12

By Jason Gibbs Santa Clarita Mayor

he Fourth of July holds a special place in our hearts. Not just as the birthday of our country, but as a reminder of the profound importance of independence, unity and the American spirit. As the City prepares to celebrate this historic day, Santa Clarita embraces the significance of the Fourth of July and its role in fostering community, honoring history and inspiring gratitude. More than just a date on the calendar, our Independence Day is a time to reflect on the hard-fought battles and unwavering determination of the nation’s founding fathers. The dream of a country that sought justice, opportunity and freedom for all had been created — and since then — celebrated!

The Fourth of July also serves as an opportunity for Santa Clarita to express gratitude. Sacrifices were made by countless individuals throughout history who fought to secure and preserve the freedoms enjoyed today.

GIBBS, P12

Signal file photo Members of the Rotary Club of Santa Clarita serve up the traditional pancake breakfast Thursday morning prior to the 88th Santa Clarita Valley Fourth of July Parade in Newhall.

PP-1 CHP Motors

2023 Parade Lineup

PP-2 Metropolitan District Elks

PP-3 Cub Scout Pack 494

D1-1 Vietnam Veterans of America - Chapter 355 ‘The Lost Patrol”

D4-16 Santa Clarita Veteran Services Collaborative

D1-2 West Ranch High School Drum Line

D1-3 Grand Marshal Dennis & Pamela Verner

D1-4 The Signal Newspaper

D1-5 LA County Sheriff’s Department

D1-6 Sheriff Robert Luna & Celines Luna

D1-7 Captain Justin Diez

D1-8 California Highway Patrol

D1-9 Officer Josh Greengard

D1-10 Panorama Towing Service

D1-11 Hot Wheels Paddy Wagon

D1-12 LA County Fire Department

D1-13 American Medical Response

D1-14 United States Forest Service Angeles National Forest

D1-15 Santa Clarita Valley Girl Scouts

D1-16 Cub Scouts Pack 527

D1-17 Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control- Castaic Care Center

D1-18 Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley

D1-19 KHTS Radio Fire Truck

D1-20 Newhall School District

D1-21 Olive Branch Theatricals

D2-1 Air Force Junior ROTC Color Guard

D2-2 Div. 2 Marshal - SCV Man & Woman of the Year

D2-3 Employer Support of Guard & Reserve

D2-4 U.S. Rep. Mike Garcia

D2-5 Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo

D2-6 Senator Scott Wilk

D2-7 Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Mayor Jason Gibbs

D2-8 Mayor Pro-Tem Cameron Smyth

D2-9 Councilmember Laurene Weste

D2-10 Girl Scout Troop 582

D2-11 Councilmember Bill Miranda

D2-12 Councilmember Marsha McLean

D2-13 Blue Star Mothers of Santa Clarita

D2-14 Guardians of Santa Clarita

D2-15 Miss Santa Clarita Valley USA Leadership Program

D2-16 Santa Clarita Warriors Football and Cheer

D2-17 SCV Warrior Cheer

D2-18 Horse to Heart/ Oak Creek Corral/ Jr. Posse

D2-19 California Rangers

D2-20 Burrtec Waste Industries (Part 1)

D3-1 Los Angeles Commandery No. 9

D3-2 Old West Masonic Lodge No. 813, F.&A.M.

D3-3 Div. 3 Marshal - Pack 40 Cub Scouts

D3-4 Dance Studio 84

D3-5 PFLAG SCV

D3-6

D3-7

Dome Sweet Dome

Santa Clarita Regional Theatre and Canyon Theatre Guild

D3-8 Cub Scout Pack 490

D3-9 Old Town Newhall and Canyon Country Farmers Markets

D3-10 Saugus High School Cheer

D3-12 Jerry Salinas

D3-13 Daughters of the American Revolution

D3-14 SCV Corvette Club

D3-15 “Please Save Damian” campaign

D3-16 Round the Clock Pest Control

D4-1 Div. 4 Marshal - Happy 80th Birthday Grammy

D4-2 Finally Family Homes

D4-3 A John Deere Family

D4-5 Canyon High School Cheer Squad

D4-6 Heaven’s Angels Mini-Bikers

D4-7 Republicans of Santa Clarita

D4-8 Derek Smith

D4-9 Freedoms Way Baptist Church and Lighthouse Christian Academy

D4-11 Fil-Am Association

D4-12 Maggie McCann

D4-13 SCOPE

D4-14 Music Moves Organization

D4-15 Ryan’s Shenanigans Irish Pub

D4-17 Santa Clarita Valley Democrats

D4-18 Santa Clarita Atheists & Freethinkers (SCAF)

D5-1 Div. 5 Marshal - Boys & Girls Club Auction Winner

D5-2 Disabled American Veterans Charity

D5-3 Hugo’s Gymfitness

D5-5 National American Miss California

Preteen

D5-6 Hart High Football

D5-4 Krypto Civic

D5-7 Hero Society Team

D5-8 Hero Society Team

D5-9 Hero Society Team

D5-9.1 Hero Society Team

D5-10 whatsupscv

D5-11 Wilson’s Pool & Spa Services

D5-12 Berean Baptist Family Fellowship

D5-13 Hamburger for State Senate 2024

D5-14 Carter Lite Family

D5-15 1989 Toyota Landcruiser

D5-16 DeLorean

D5-17 Healing Solutions Family Therapy Center

D5-18 Entity Mortgage and Realty

D5-19 Burrtec Waste Industries (Part 2)

The History of America’s Independence Day

Few summertime holidays elicit as much excitement as the Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day in the United States. Each year, family, friends and revelers anticipate the arrival of the holiday so they can host barbecues, enjoy the sun, listen to their favorite summertime tunes, and commemorate the freedoms afforded by the monumental events that led to the holiday’s establishment.

Independence Day became a federal holiday in 1941, but July 4th has stood as the birth of American independence for much longer. July 4th marks a pivotal moment in the American Revolution.

According to PBS, the colonies were forced to pay taxes to England’s King George III despite having no representation in the British Parliament. “Taxation without representation” became a battle cry and was one of several grievances colonists had with Great Britain.

Conflict between the colonies had been going on for at least a year before the colonies convened a Continental Congress in Philadelphia in June of 1776, says Military.com.

On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence from England. Two days later, on July 4, 1776, delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence.

The Declaration of Independence is an historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson was considered the strongest and most eloquent writer of the declaration writing committee charged with putting the colonies’ sentiments into words.

Richard Henry Lee of Virginia was one of the first people to present a resolution for American independence, and his commentary was the impetus for the formal Declaration of Independence.

A total of 86 changes were made to Jefferson’s original draft until the final version was adopted. The signing of the document helped to solidify independence, and eventually lead to the formation of the United States of America.

A total of 56 delegates signed the document.

Although John Hancock’s signature is the largest, it did not hold more weight than the other signatures. Rather, rumor has it, Hancock signed it so large so that the “fat, old King could read it without his spectacles.” However, the National Archives says it was also customary that, since Hancock was the president of the Continental Congress, he be the first person to sign the

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PHOTO COURTESY NATIONAL ARCHIVES document centered below the text.

The Pennsylvania Evening Post was the first newspaper to print the Declaration of

Independence on July 6, 1776. The first public readings of the Declaration were held in Philadelphia’s Independence Square on July 8, 1776. (MC)

DENNIS AND PAMELA VERNER

How to Properly Display the Flag

before it is lowered.

The American flag symbolizes many things to many people. While the American flag is proudly displayed in millions of buildings and homes across the United States year-round, it tends to draw special attention each summer, when Americans celebrate their independence on July 4.

The Flag Code formalizes and unifies the standards of respect that must be given to the flag, even containing specific instructions regarding how the flag should not be used. The following are some of the rules that govern how to display the American flag.

Raising and Lowering the Flag

According to USFlag.org, the American flag should be raised quickly and lowered slowly and ceremoniously. While the Flag Code suggests the flag should be displayed only between sunrise and sunset, if it is displayed at night, it should be illuminated. The flag should be saluted as it is hoisted, and when lowered that salute should be held until the flag is unsnapped from the halyard or through the final note of music, whichever is the longest.

When displayed indoors, the flag should be displayed to the right of the speaker, staging area or sanctuary. Any additional flags hanging in the room should always hang to the left of the American flag. When flags are grouped for display, the American flag should be in the center and at the highest point of any flag.

In Mourning

The American flag is often displayed in mourning. When placing the flag at half staff, first hoist it to the peak for an instant before lowering it to a position halfway between the top and bottom of the staff. During mourning, when the time comes to lower the flag, it should once again be momentarily raised to the peak

The American flag is flown at half staff when mourning designated, principal government leaders. It also must be flown at half staff upon presidential or gubernatorial order.

When covering a casket, the American flag should be placed with the union at the head and over the left shoulder. The flag should never be lowered into the grave

Parading the Flag

When the American flag is carried in a procession, such as in a parade, the flag should always be to the right of the marchers when it is the lone flag being represented. When other flags are carried, the American flag may be centered in front of the others or carried to their right. Parade audiences should salute the flag as it passes in the procession.

Flag Restrictions

There are many conditions under which the American flag is not to be used. These include:

„ The flag should never be used as a decoration. Use bunting to decorate with the colors of the American flag, always ensuring the blue stripe of the bunting is on top.

„ The flag should not be used as part of advertising. The flag also should not be embroidered, printed or impressed on articles such as cushions, napkins, boxes, or anything considered temporary that is likely to be discarded after use.

„ The flag should not be used as part of a costume. The uniforms of military personnel, firemen, policemen, and members of patriotic organizations are permitted to wear American flag insignias on their uniforms.

„ The flag is not to be used as a receptacle to carry,

deliver, hold, or receive anything.

The American flag is an enduring symbol of freedom and sacrifice to millions of people across the globe. The flag should always be displayed with the utmost respect and in adherence to the guidelines set forth by the Flag Code. (MC)

The History of Old Glory

Facts about the American flag: how it came to be, the significance of its colors and how it received its nickname

National flags

to

citizens of a given country.

of government buildings and schools, and they also identify athletes during international sporting competitions. In many countries, flags also serve as symbols of honor for members of the military and their families.

For more than 200 years, the American flag has been a symbol of unity and pride in the United States. The red, white and blue flag has a storied history and has gone through various incarnations. The following are some of the more interesting facts pertaining to the American flag.

„ Six different flag designs were flown before Betsy Ross announced that she had sewn the official American flag. These designs included a series of alternating red and white stripes, the Liberty Tree, the Sons of Liberty and the Forester flag designs. The Continental Army once used a flag featuring a snake with the mantra “Don’t Tread on Me.”

„ On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress proposed and passed the Flag Act of 1777. This

resolution was designed to facilitate the creation of an official flag for a nation that was aiming to earn its independence from Great Britain. The flag was to have thirteen stripes, alternating red and white, with thirteen white stars on a blue field. The thirteen stars signified the original members of the Union.

„ The American flag remained unchanged until 1795, when the stripes and stars were increased to 15 for the addition of Kentucky and Vermont to the Union.

„ After seeing the new stars-and-stripes flag flying over Fort McHenry during the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key was inspired to write the poem that would eventually become the nation’s national anthem.

„ A sea captain from Massachusetts named William Driver named a large, 10-foot-by-17-foot flag “Old Glory” after it survived multiple defacing attempts during the American Civil War. Driver’s nickname of the flag inspired the name to be used for all American flags.

„ Although Flag Day was established as a formal national holiday in 1949, it was not made a federal

holiday. Flag Day is only an official holiday in the state of Pennsylvania. This may be fitting because legend holds that Betsy Ross sewed the first flag in Pennsylvania.

„ Today’s flag features the original 13 alternating white and red stripes (in 1818, another design went into effect, permanently setting the number of stripes at 13 in honor of the original colonies) and 50 stars to represent the states of the Union. The colors of the flag signify as follows: red for hardiness and valor, white for purity and innocence, and blue for vigilance, perseverance and justice.

The Color Association of the United States creates the palette of colors used for both private and public institutions and the U.S. Army. Mass-market flag manufacturers tend to use Pantone Matching Shade of Dark Red (193 C) and Navy Blue (281 C).

The American Flag has been a fixture of the United States for centuries and continues to serve as a symbol of pride, valor and history. (MC)

serve

unite

Flags wave proudly in front

Parade Route

Festive Facts for Fourth of July

Each year on July 4, Americans celebrate the birth of their nation and independence from Great Britain. This day marks the anniversary of the presentation and acceptance of the Declaration of Independence, signed 242 years ago on July 4, 1776.

The Declaration of Independence began as a letter to Britain’s King George to explain why the Continental Congress was interested in declaring independence from Great Britain. The writing of the declaration began on July 2 and the final wording was established on July 4.

Besides the usual, another way to commemorate Independence Day is to educate oneself about the many historical and entertaining facts that surround the day. The following are some interesting details about the origins of Independence Day and the celebrations that surround it.

„ Although 56 people eventually signed the Declaration of Independence, only John Hancock signed the document on July 4, 1776. The rest added their names later on. John Hancock’s signature is ornate and widely recognized. Putting your “John Hancock” on a document has become synonymous with the process of signing something.

„ The Declaration of Independence was adopted while the Continental Congress met in Philadelphia at the Pennsylvania Statehouse. That building is now known as Independence Hall.

„ The average age of the signers of the Declaration of Independence was 45. The youngest person to sign was Thomas Lynch, Jr., who was 27 when he signed the document. Benjamin Franklin, at age 70, was the oldest signee.

„ John Adams and Thomas Jefferson were the only signees who went on to serve as presidents. Coincidentally, Jefferson and Adams both died on July 4, 1826, within hours of each other.

„ Philadelphia is the birth place of much American history and is home to the Liberty Bell. Each Independence Day, the Liberty Bell is tapped (not rung, as the vibration would further damage the cracked bell) 13 times in honor of the original 13 American colonies.

„ The original 13 American colonies were located all along the eastern seaboard. They include Virginia, New York, New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Maryland, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Delaware, North Carolina, South Carolina, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Georgia.

„ Independence was gained in 1776, and the first celebration took place in Philadelphia four days later. The White House held its first Independence Day festivities in 1801.

„ Benjamin Franklin proposed that the turkey be the national bird of the United States. He was overruled.

„ The only copy of the engrossed and signed Declaration of Independence is in the National Archives in Washington, D.C. Independence Day is a time for hot dogs, ice cream and, of course, revisiting America’s history.

EVENTS

Continued from P1

The Independence Day Classic 5K will take runners along the parade route, and the 10K along the South Fork Bike Path. Participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt, finisher’s medal and free race photos.

The 10K race is scheduled to begin at 7 a.m., the Kids K at 7:45 a.m. and the 5K run/walk at 8 a.m. Event proceeds benefit area nonprofits, including cross-country programs for the local high schools. 4th of July Community Hike at Towsley Canyon

Hot for Yoga will be hosting a hike, led by Bailey the dog, on Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the Towsley Canyon Hiking Trail, 24335 The Old Road.

The hike will take attendees through Towsley short loop, which is 2.1 miles.

Attendees are asked to meet at the benches across from the parking lot.

The event is also serving as a center for donations for the Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry.

The SCV Food Pantry has listed the following items as urgent for donation: toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, soap bars, shampoo, laundry detergent, diapers (sizes 1 and 2), canned meat, canned soup, mac & cheese, oatmeal, cereal, mayo, barbecue sauce, hot sauce, ketchup, ranch dressing and mustard.

For every $5 worth of item(s) donated, one will earn a ticket for a raffle prize.

Those interested can view more information and book their spot at hotforyogascv.com/schedule/.

Rotary Club of Santa Clarita’s 57th Annual July 4th Pancake Breakfast

This annual sweet breakfast is scheduled to begin at 6:30 a.m. and last until 9 a.m. at the Roger Dunn Golf Shop parking lot, 24200 Main St.

GIBBS

Continued from P1

From the brave men and women in the armed forces to the pioneers who forged the path of progress, and to all our first responders who give their all to keep our community safe, Santa Clarita pays homage to those who dedicated, and at times sacrificed, their lives to upholding the ideals upon which the nation was built. At the core of the celebrations lies the spirit of unity. On the Fourth of July,

The pricing is $10 per person and children under 12 are free with a paying adult.

All of the proceeds will benefit the community through the club’s nonprofit endeavors.

Santa Clarita Valley Annual Fourth of July Parade

“The city is thrilled to have our Fourth of July Parade for another year in beautiful downtown Newhall,” said Santa Clarita Mayor Jason Gibbs. “In a city that has long focused on providing a strong business climate, safe and family-friendly places to live and countless opportunities to recreate and play, the parade’s theme pays tribute to our city and our county.”

The 91st edition of the parade begins at 9 a.m. with a route that starts near the entrance to Hart Park on Newhall Avenue, winding down Main Street before hooking a left on Lyons Avenue, a right on Orchard Village Road and a right on Dalbey Drive before finishing near Placerita Junior High School.

Dennis and Pamela Verner have been named grand marshals of the parade.

Carrie Lujan, city of Santa Clarita communications manager, and Dave Caldwell, SCVTV host and spokesman for The Master’s University, will be hosting SCVTV Santa Clarita’s broadcast of this year’s Fourth of July Parade, which can be viewed from the route, or live on Spectrum Channel 20, AT&T Channel 99, Roku, Apple TV, SCVTV.com or on Facebook.

Kid’s Movies for $2 – Regal Summer Movie Express

Regal’s 2023 Summer Movie Express lands perfectly on the Fourth of July.

The movie express is a summer-long event by Regal where all first showings of the day for family movies are priced at $2 on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Regal Edwards Valencia, 24435 Town Center Drive, will be showing “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” at 11:30 a.m. and “Clifford the Big Red Dog” at 11:30 a.m.

the City comes together, transcending differences, and standing shoulder-toshoulder in the pursuit and recognition of freedom and liberty. It serves as a powerful reminder that despite our varied backgrounds, we are all part of what makes Santa Clarita such an amazing place to Live, Work, and Play! In fact, that is the very theme of this year’s parade – Celebrating America’s Independence the SCV Way – Live, Work, Play!

Nothing demonstrates our patriotism and love for our country and community like the Fourth of July Parade and

Regal Edwards Canyon Country, 18800 Soledad Canyon Road, will be showing “Clifford the Big Red Dog” at 11:15 a.m. and “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” at 12:45 p.m.

Tickets for all the screenings listed are $2. To view more information and purchase tickets, visit tinyurl. com/yc2ujezb.

Painting with a Twist Fourth of July themed painting

Painting with a Twist is hosting two sessions for the holiday.

The first session will teach attendees to paint “star pops” and is scheduled to take place from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The recommended age for this session is 7 years old and up. Tickets are priced at $28-$30 per person. Those wishing to attend can purchase tickets at tinyurl.com/bdhauzc9.

The second session will teach attendees to paint “patriotic mason jars” and is scheduled to take place from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are priced at $39-$48 per person. Those wishing to attend can purchase tickets at tinyurl.com/3e6uycy5.

“Spirit of America” Fireworks Show

The city of Santa Clarita will be hosting its annual fireworks show, the “Spirit of America” Fireworks Spectacular, which is expected to start around 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday, from the same location as last year inside the Westfield Valencia Town Center parking lot near the corner of Citrus Street and Magic Mountain Parkway.

“Let Freedom Ring” Six Flags Fireworks Show

Six Flags will be hosting its annual “Let Freedom Ring,” running from July 1 to 4 with each showing to begin at 9 p.m.

According to Six Flags’ website, the best viewing areas are Full Throttle Plaza and Main Gate Plaza. Fireworks viewing is included with park admission. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/5n6jv48h.

evening fireworks show! Come on out to Old Town Newhall early, eat a delicious pancake breakfast prepared by our incredible Rotarians, and find a seat on the streets of Newhall as hundreds of residents, elected officials and community groups show off their American spirit! And as the evening arrives, the night sky will light up with the Spirit of America Fireworks Spectacular at the Westfield Valencia Town Center parking lot!

In Santa Clarita, the Fourth of July is not just a day of celebration; it is a moment to honor the values that define

our community, and our nation. It is a time to come together, express gratitude for the liberties granted, and renew the commitment to upholding the principles upon which the United States was founded. We all stand together as a shining example of the enduring importance of the Fourth of July and the unbreakable bond between the City and the nation it calls home. May you all have a safe, memorable and reflective Independence Day, and thank you for being part of our amazing community! Happy 247th Birthday, America!

Dan Watson/The Signal

Newhall’s First Parade

Homecoming Celebration July 4, 1935

Every Fourth of July, Folks from miles around would “come home” to Newhall and participate in a Homecoming Celebration in the park next to (the fourth) Newhall School on Walnut Street. Just before the kickoff of the annual parade, all of the participants would gather for a photograph by Thompson of Santa Monica. This is the 1935 version, courtesy of Bud Lutge by way of artist Paulette Tcherkassky.

By Leon Worden SCVHistory.com

It was July 3, 1930. Herbert Hoover was in the White House. The nation’s economic troubles were looking like they would get worse before they got better. Nobody was in a particularly celebratory mood, and from his tiny office and print shop at 636 Spruce Street, Signal editor A.B.”Dad” Thatcher griped about Newhall’s lackluster display of patriotism on America’s 154th birthday.

“In the old days,” Thatcher writes, “two objects were to be attained, or a (July 4th) celebration was marked down as a fizzle. The first was to get the best known speaker possible, and the other was to buy more fireworks than (any) other town.”

The next year, 1931, was worse. Just months after Congress made the Star Spangled Banner the national anthem, “the population of Newhall celebrated the glorious Fourth by trips in every direction, most of that direction was toward the beach.”

Then a curious thing happened. In 1932 the locals got their act together and staged one wing-ding of a July 4th show.

“The national holiday was celebrated in Newhall with the greatest and most colorful festivity that has marked the public doings in town for many years,” the ever-patriotic Thatcher writes.

It seems our town mothers and fathers, most notably the realtor-turned-historian A.B. Perkins and Chevy dealer Fred Lamkin, decided that Depression or no, Newhall would have a parade.

“The parade formed on Arch Street,” Thatcher writes, “from whence it marched to Newhall Avenue, which was followed to Tenth Street (now called Lyons Avenue), turning to Spruce Street (now called San Fernando Road) and moving south to Market Street, where it turned to the playground near the Community Church anddissolved.”

The parade had an “Old Time” theme — no kidding — with an “old-timeprospector and his family, the Mule Team freight line, cowboys, old time ranchers and others, along with the newer things that have become a part of our communitylife.”

Things like S.D. Dill’s brand-new 1932 school bus, which was “an impressive lesson of the progress both of transportation and the number of pupils.”

The “Catholic Ladies” won Sweepstakes for their model of the San Fernando Mission, complete with “Indians, Padre and other features.”

Newhall Ice — still in business today — won the “originality” prize for its blocks of ice with flowers and fruit inside.

Opal Houghton’s stunning hat won her the “best ladies costume” prize, presented by Ruby Kellogg.

“Jess Doty and his men put on an odd stunt. A car of 1913 was shown with some wheels out of center, and known as Galloping Lizzie, was followed by one of the newestmodels.”

“Herb Ball’s freight line got stuck, and lost the water wagon, but finally got its place with the sixteen mule team.”

After the parade, “fully two thousand people milled around, visiting, greeting friends, dodging the fire crackers, and waiting the opening of the barbecue dinner. Pictures of the old timers, who were there in force, were taken.”

Politicians made patriotic speeches, and sporting events lasted until sundown.

“The greased pig and greased pole contests seemed to make the most sport, the pole climbing being continued until finally Robert Poore, of Glendale, managed to overcome the slippery handicap and get the $2.50 prize.”

Evening festivities included a fireworks display on the grounds of Newhall School.

Every year after that, Newhall’s Fourth of July festivities just got bigger and bigger.

The 1933 parade saw no fewer than 27 official entries, with “about a hundred horsemen, rodeo performers, cowboys, cowgirls and movie stars.”

It is a fine tradition, one that has stayed the same more than it has changed over the years.

Sure, we’ll have a few more than 27 official entries tomorrow. More than 127, even. And the parade will draw a bit more than 2,000 spectators. It’ll likely be

PARADE

Continued from P1

time and talents to a multitude of local nonprofits. They were responsible for organizing the last two benefit auctions for the SCV Boys & Girls Club, which has provided critical after-school programs for latchkey kids in our community since 1968, and Pamela is jumping right back in as the chair of Circle of Hope’s upcoming Royal Tea.

Professionally, Dennis heads the Santa Clarita operation of Burrtec Waste Industries. Driving through Newhall at the head of the parade should give about 25,000 spectators a chance to put a face to the family-owned company that has handled Santa Clarita’s commercial waste for many years but is a new name for most residential customers.

There you have it: The Santa Clarita Valley Fourth of July Parade, 2023 edition. Have a blast! Leon Worden has been in charge of the SCV Fourth of July Parade since 1996.

the biggest mass of humanity this town has ever seen at a single community event.

But this year’s “Life on the Frontier” theme isn’t too different from the “OldTime” motif of 64 years ago. And we’re bound to have some 1930s-vintageautomobiles, as well as some of the “newer things that have become a part of our community life,” as Thatcher put it.

Newhall Park will again be the venue for postparade activities. We might not have a greased pig contest, but we’ll have pig races and all sorts of other contests at Frontier Days, which start right after the parade and run through Sunday, July 7 at the fairgrounds on Soledad Canyon Road. And “Dad” Thatcher would be pleased to know we’ll have fireworks.

Independence Day is a special time in Newhall, where people from all over Santa Clarita come together to show their pride in the greatest community and the greatest nation on earth.

Antelope

The Antelope Valley Band out of Lancaster,

1933

with a succession of locally elected community leaders (with real jobs in real life) serving as part-time judge and jury for

Judicial

Newhall Fourth of July Celebration, Saxonia Park, 1909-1913

At the time, Newhall celebrated the Fourth of July with a picnic and festivities at Saxonia Park. The park was located at the west end of Placerita Canyon at what is now 24912 Quigley Canyon Road.

Local court officials from the Soledad Judicial District July 4, 1935 Before the Santa Clarita Valley was known as the Santa Clarita Valley, it was Soledad Township, and before it had its first Municipal Court judgeship — in 1966 — it had a “Justice Court”

minor crimes. The Soledad

District stretched all the way from L.A. City limits to the Kern County line.

A flowery entry in the 1933 Parade.

Valley Band Fourth of July Parade 1933

led by Paul Hubbard. The Santa Clarita Valley didn’t have its own high school band in

because the Santa Clarita Valley didn’t have its own high school.

Why wait in long lines?

July 4, 1950 Opens Newhall’s Old West 4th of July

Monday - Saturday 9am to 5pm Sundays 9am to 3pm

27125 Sierra Hwy Santa Clarita 91351 Behind Dunkin Donuts in L ower Level Parking Lot

Celebration Welcome Friends!

In this Old West Celebration held every year, we go back to a harder but happier day — the day when the West was first opening up, and living was free, tough and wild. There was a giant hospitality then. We offer you that hospitality now. Join us! Have a good time! Stay as long as you like.

Events of the Day

July Third

Slippery Gulch opens for the evening. Come on out and get together with your friends. A full Old West atmosphere.

July Fourth

Independence Day! Day starts off with the firing of the cannon in Calamity Wash. If this don’t get you out of bed you probably won’t ever get out of bed.

9:00 a.m. Grand Peerade assembles on Newhall avenue headin’ south. Watch them hosses. Sheriff’s Posse will tell you where your place is.

GRAND MARSHALETTE

— CAROLINA COTTON — Bless her heart

10:30, maybe 11:00 (Parades don’t hardly ever start on time).

The shootin’ and hollerin’ committee shoots up the town. Hold on to your hats and watch them hosses, men.

Grand Peerade rounds the point and starts down the main stem. Marching groups. Drum and Bugle Corps. Lady Riders. Gentlemen Riders.

Just Plain Riders. Watch the hosses. Floats, floats and more floats. More

riders. The Queen and her Royal Court. Hats off you pokes. More Riders. More Floats.

Watch them firecrackers — go ahead light it — spend the day in jail.

More Riders.

Line of march north on San Fernando road, thence east to SLIPPERY GULCH!

1950 Grand Marshalette Carolina Cotton

Carolina Cotton, the “Yodeling Blonde Bombshell,” was “grand marshalette” of Newhall’s 1950 Fourth of July Parade, which ran up San Fernando Road (which, in 1950, was another name for Railroad Avenue) and ended at Ernie Hickson’s Placeritos Ranch, which was renamed “Slippery Gulch” for the 1949-1951 Independence Day celebrations. Today it’s Melody Ranch.

Image courtesy of Carolina’s daughter, Sharon Marie (2014).

Placeritos Ranch-Slippery Gulch Postcard, 1950 Courtesy

Santa Clarita Valley Royalty

Photographs captured by Signal photographers of local residents who won or were nominated for queen during Fourth of July festivities. The photos selected are from 1950 to 1960.

just before the announcement of the winning 1950 candidate, are Barbara Ayres, 1949 queen, and the contestants, Opalee Adams, Esther Duran, Janet Cook and Ruth Walk. Behind them, in the same order, Ralph Brown, Mel Adams, Don Brunton, Junior Feltner and Bob Wilke. Janet Cook won the crown that year.

1953 Queen Carol Anne Shaughnessy poses with her court of princesses, following the Coronation ceremony at the annual Coronation Ball at the Club 507. Behind her (left to right) are Gwen Kaoch, Barbara Lenox, Claudine Helm (1952 Queen), Joan Jauregui and Edith Clymore.

From left: Ginger Gorman, Elberta McKissack, Kathleen Burckert, queen Margie Powell, wearing her crown and holding her trophy, Janet Cook, Barbara Ayres Brown, Jackie Frerichs and Janet Austin attend the Coronation Ball, which officially launched the Fourth of July celebration in 1951.

1960 Queen Myrna Cash

1958 Queen Linda

1957 Queens LaVonne Saunders (left) Karen Manzer

COMMITTEE

Leon Worden, Chair

Jessica Boyer, Coordinator

Dave Knutson, Parade Marshal

Dave Caldwell

Bruce Fortine

Laura Hauser

Kyle Lopez

Carrie Lujan

Michael Mazzetti

James McCarthy

Gloria Mercado-Fortine

Teresa Todd

Fred Trueblood III

Laurene Weste-McCarthy

Kenneth Wilson

SPONSORS

City of Santa Clarita

Burrtec Waste Industries

SCVTV

The Signal

2023 4th of July Parade

Family & Friends of Duane Harte

KHTS AM-1220/FM-98.1

Mac Pool & Spa Supply

Sunbelt Rentals

Panorama Towing

William S. Hart Park

JUDGES

Laurene Weste, Chair

Jim McCarthy, Co-Chair

Georgia Rios

Suzie Alziebler

Sharon Bronson

RJ Kelly

Patty Kelly

Dennis Ostrom

Skye Ostrom, Equestrian

Sue Ostrom

Linda Pedersen

Tom Pedersen

Tami Stephens

FANNOUNCERS

Station 1

Fred Gruchalla

Station 2 — KHTS

Jade Abuchon

Andrew Menjivar

Station 3

Gloria Mercado-Fortine, Chair

Bruce Fortine

Station 4

Martha Aguilera

Pete Robertson

Station 5

Chuck Simons

Station 6

Ed Bernstein

Marlene Bernstein

EMERGENCY VETERINARIAN

Dr. George Dyck

661-259-7745

It’s a Grand Old Flag

or more than 200 years, the American flag has been flown across the nation as a symbol of allegiance and pride, and the Santa Clarita Valley is no exception.

In fact, Santa Clarita is known as a patriotic town by many. Flags proudly wave on light poles down many of the streets, at homes across the city and at various schools and businesses, including some especially large flags at Camping World of Valencia and Schwartz Oil Co. at Castaic Junction.

“People tell us they love seeing (the flag) from the freeway,” Camping World spokeswoman Melissa Manning said to The Signal in a previous interview. “It’s loud and proud, and it never comes down, unless it has to be repaired.”

The massive 40-by-80-foot flag was put up three years ago, and stays up year-round, after officials at Camping World in Lincolnshire, Illinois, announced that all of the chain’s stores would be flying the massive flags in honor of veterans.

“Our company places extreme pride and value on our country and its veterans,” Marcus Lemonis, chairman and CEO of Camping World, said in 2014, according to the company’s website. “A large percentage of our employees and also customers are veterans, and we want to honor them, their dedication to our country and to our local communities.”

While the Camping World flag is certainly the biggest flag in Santa Clarita, it is not the oldest of the giant flags in the area.

Though the Schwartz Oil Co. flag is a bit smaller at 30 by 50 feet, it has seniority as it’s been around for more than 20 years.

The owners said they’re proud of their huge flag, which can be seen from both the Interstate 5 freeway and Highway 126, and was put up by the owners because they wanted to show some patriotism. They put the flag up during the Fourth of July holiday and try to keep it up throughout the year.

“I’ve been driving past (this flag) every week for over 10 years now, and every week it makes me smile,” said truck driver Ryan Pullman.

Pullman said he drives the same route weekly, and cannot wait to see the “towering flag,” as it means he has almost made it home.

“I can’t think of a better way of honoring our country than by doing this and keeping it up as much as they do,” he added.

Smaller yet still impressive, two more local businesses along the I-5 have also put up approximately 20-by-30-foot flags.

Both Conserv Fuel, located on the 28100 block of The Old Road, and McDonald’s at the corner of The Old Road and Magic Mountain Parkway, have recently put in new flagpoles to accommodate the larger flags.

Six different flag designs were flown before Betsy Ross created the official version, and today’s flag still features the original 13 alternating white and red stripes, in honor of the original colonies, and 50 stars on a blue background to represent the states. The red signifies hardiness and valor, white for purity and innocence, and blue for vigilance, perseverance and justice.

Stevenson Ranch resident Shayna Reems said her 2-year-old son, Caleb, salutes — with the wrong hand, she added, laughing — every time he sees the giant flags.

“My kids love driving around town

and seeing all the flags, especially the boys,” Reems said. “My oldest likes to see how many he can count in a day, though he can only count up to about 20 before he loses track and has to start

over. Their dad is a U.S. Army veteran, so they know the importance of being patriotic. … This is their favorite time of the year because all the flags are out.”

Signal Staff