Assemblymember Cahill: Have a Happy and Safe Fourth of July

Many community events to mark our Nation’s birthday

July 2, 2010

Kingston – Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D-Ulster, Dutchess) wished everyone a happy and safe Fourth of July weekend and urged people to celebrate our nation’s birthday responsibly. He noted that there are numerous festivities going on throughout the Mid-Hudson Valley which include parades, fireworks displays, music and a demolition derby.

“These annual fireworks displays throughout the region are really quite remarkable,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “The parades, fireworks and other activities are a great family friendly and safe way to celebrate our nation’s independence.”

Assemblymember Cahill also issued an annual reminder to all New Yorkers that the use and possession of all consumer fireworks is illegal in our state. The use of illegal fireworks endangers property and the lives of the users and firefighters who are called to deal with associated fires. In 2008, the National Fire Protection Association reported that there were 10,500 emergency room visits, 22,500 fires and, from 2004-2008, there were 9 deaths attributable to fireworks.

“Fireworks and the Forth of July are two things that seem to go hand in hand. However, it is essential to remind New Yorkers of the state law, and bring awareness to the many potential dangers of fireworks,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “I encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly and enjoy the fireworks at the many events going on throughout the area.”

Below is a listing of area festivities:

• July 3--Independence Day Celebration in New Paltz. Music, food, festivities, live entertainment and fireworks. Rain date July 4th. Ulster County Fairgrounds, Libertyville Road, New Paltz; 255-0604 ext 1; www.townofnewpaltz.org
• July 3rd--World’s Largest Demolition Derby and Fireworks. Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck; 876-4000; Visit the Dutchess Fair Web site for more information.
• July 4th--Hudson Valley Philharmonic and Fireworks. Celebrate the 4th of July and bring a picnic and a blanket. Dutchess County Fairground, Rhinebeck; gates open 4pm, music at 8pm, fireworks at dusk; 876-4000; Visit the Dutchess Fair Web site for more information.
• July 4th--Celebration in Ellenville. Parade at noon in village along with arts and crafts at Liberty Square from 9am . Fireworks at dusk at Resnick Airport. Ellenville; 647-7800 ext 290; Visit the Ellenville/Wawarsing 4th of July Web site for more information.
• July 5th--Celebration in Saugerties. Parade at 11am, starting at High School. Arts, crafts and vendors after parade at Cantine Field, fireworks at dusk. Saugerties; 246-2321.

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