Latest news with #fireworks
CBS News
5 hours ago
- Politics
- CBS News
NJ town adds fences, drones, more police for July 4 fireworks after "recent disturbances" involving juveniles
Citing "troubling trends" related to groups of unsupervised young people at public events, Maple Shade, New Jersey, is planning extra security for its Independence Day fireworks celebration next Saturday — including an increased police presence, surveillance cameras and drones, and fencing around the event area. Maple Shade Police Chief Christopher Fletcher sent a letter to the Burlington County community on Friday explaining the changes for the 2025 celebration. The town is set to have a parade at noon on June 28, followed by fireworks at dusk at Maple Shade High School. "The area surrounding Maple Shade High School will be fenced, with clearly marked entry points for all guests. Backpacks and face coverings will not be permitted inside the fenced area, as these items have been commonly used in recent disturbances throughout the region," Fletcher said. "These preparations are based on troubling trends we've seen locally (including Maple Shade) and across New Jersey, where large groups of unsupervised juveniles have disrupted public events, often arriving via rideshare services and then engaging in disorderly or violent behavior. These incidents have made event safety more complex, with many towns opting to cancel their events entirely," Fletcher added. He said Maple Shade would not be canceling its "long-standing, beloved traditions" and will coordinate across departments to have a rapid response to any issues that may arise. Fletcher acknowledged that the heightened security may cause delays or inconveniences for attendees, but said the measures are in place for safety. The full letter is available on the Maple Shade township website and Facebook page. Security changes come weeks after New Jersey passes brawl bill Maple Shade's announced security changes come only a few weeks after the passage of a bill aimed at stopping one type of gathering of unruly juveniles: public brawls. The bill upgraded penalties for disorderly conduct in some circumstances and said intentionally starting a public brawl would be a disorderly persons violation. The bill stemmed from chaos and hundreds of fights that overtook Gloucester Township Day in June 2024. Gloucester Township Day was canceled this year after law enforcement officers discovered threats of violent activity were being shared on social media.
CBS News
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- CBS News
2025 Ford Fireworks in Detroit. Here's what to know about parking, street closures and curfew
The Ford Fireworks show along the Detroit River will begin around 10 p.m. Monday, with hundreds of thousands of people expected to gather for views framed by the downtown Detroit skyline. This event is produced by The Parade Company. To watch the fireworks in person, authorities suggest picking a spot from the public viewing areas at Hart Plaza, Spirit Plaza or Belle Isle. Admission to the public viewing areas is free, but vehicle passes or parking garage fees apply at specific locations. A number of street closures, parking restrictions and public transportation announcements are in effect that day. Hart Plaza and Spirit Plaza Both Hart Plaza and Spirit Plaza are weapon-free zones for the public, with no weapons or knives permitted. Backpacks will be searched. Both plazas will be open until capacity is reached. Pedestrian set-ups and/or gatherings will not be permitted before 2 p.m. on June 23, no re-admittance for those who leave either plaza. Everyone who wishes to be part of a group should arrive together, as reserving an area in excess of the number of people currently in the group is prohibited. Coolers are allowed, but will be searched. Cooking is prohibited. Flames, fires and fireworks by the public are prohibited in the plazas. Belle Isle viewing Belle Isle will open at 5 a.m. June 23 to pedestrians and bicyclists. Vehicles will not be allowed on the island until 2 p.m. that day. From 2 to 4 p.m., all vehicles will be directed to the paddock area (except those with valid ADA placards). RV parking will be in the paddock area near the Casino. Once the island's capacity is reached, no additional vehicles will be admitted to the park. To get updates on when the island is full, text GEM to 80888. Motorists will need the Recreation Passport to enter the island. The passport, which is only needed for vehicles, may be purchased at the entrance for $14. The passport is $11 for out-of-state and international visitors for the day. Viewing from the MacArthur Bridge on Belle Isle will not be permitted. Alcohol consumption is prohibited on the island. No tents and canopies allowed. Consumer fireworks are prohibited on the island. Closed locations Several riverside parks will be closed on June 23, including the following: RiverWalk in its entirety from Gabriel Richard Park to Huntington Place AB Ford Park, 100 Lenox Dequindre Cut Erma Henderson Park, 8800 E. Jefferson Ave. Gabriel Richard Park, 7130 E. Jefferson Ave. Lakewood East, 14578 Riverfront Blvd. Maheras-Gentry Park, 12550 Avondale Mariner Park, 14700 Riverside Blvd. Milliken State Park/Harbor Mt. Elliott Park, 110 Mt. Elliott Owens Park, 8430 E. Jefferson Ave. Riverside Park Stockton Park, 9250 Dwight Municipal parking spots Detroit's Municipal Parking Department will not enforce the time limits on parking meters after 5 p.m. on June 23. However, motorists are advised to observe parking restrictions. Parking violators will be ticketed and, in some instances, vehicles may be towed. Motorists will be ticketed for: Improper parking (vehicles within 20 feet of a crosswalk; within 15 feet of an intersection; within 30 feet of a stop sign or traffic control device; and within 15 feet of a fire hydrant) Parking in front of fire hydrants and bus stops or blocking driveways and alleys. Parking in designated zones, such as handicap zones (without proper credentials), fire lanes, no parking zones or no standing zones Parking garages The Municipal Parking Department will provide parking at two city-owned garages. Ford Underground Garage, 30 East Jefferson Avenue, will be open from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. The parking fee is $10. Eastern Market Garage, 2727 Riopelle Street, will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. The Parking fee is $5. Fireworks viewing and tailgating are prohibited at the parking garages. For more information, call (313) 221-2500 or go online to Street and freeway closures The following traffic changes will begin about 6 p.m. on June 23: No northbound or southbound traffic will be allowed on Woodward Avenue beginning at Park and Witherell. Motorists may cross Woodward at John R/Clifford, Grand River, and State/Gratiot. All streets south of Fort and west of Woodward will be closed. All streets south of Congress and east of Woodward will be closed. Beginning at 6 p.m., freeways may begin to close. The Detroit Police Department might adjust the closing time, depending on the volume of vehicle traffic. Juvenile curfew enforcement The City of Detroit curfew for ages 17 and under will be in effect from 8 p.m. on June 23 until 6 a.m. June 24 for the area surrounded by the Detroit River, Rosa Parks Blvd., Lodge Freeway, Fisher Freeway, the extension of Fisher Freeway east to include Gratiot Avenue, Vernor Highway, Chene Street, Atwater Street and Chene Park. Minors can view the fireworks from any approved public area. However, for their safety, minors must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or other responsible adult (age 21 or over), if they choose to view from within the curfew boundaries. Minors will be allowed to travel to and from work, school, church or organized activities. Minors in violation of the curfew will be taken to the Butzel Family Center, 7737 Kercheval, and held there until picked up by a parent or guardian. The parent or guardian will also receive a parental responsibility violation ticket. Lost children Families can meet up with and pick up their lost children in these locations: Huntington Place, off Atwater Drive, in the atrium Detroit Police Department 3rd Precinct, 2875 W. Grand Blvd. (313) 596-5300 Detroit Police Department 4th Precinct, 4700 W. Fort Street (313) 596-5400 Butzel Family Center, 7737 Kercheval, 628-2100 DDOT bus lines The Detroit Department of Transportation said the following bus routes will be impacted by the fireworks: Grand River (#3), Woodward northbound only (#4), Van Dyke/Lafayette (#5), Gratiot (#6), Jefferson (#9), Dexter (#16), Fort (#19), Russell (#40), Chene (#52), and Cadillac/Harper (#67). Buses running on the west side of downtown will lay over at Rosa Parks Transit Center; buses running on the east side of downtown will lay over at the Bricktown People Mover Station. For reroute information, check the DDOT site. For more information regarding DDOT service, call 313-933-1300. Detroit People Mover service The Detroit People Mover will operate from 6:30 a.m. until midnight. Riders may exit at the Financial District Station for viewing at Spirit or Hart Plaza. Due to early closures at Huntington Place, Millender Center and Renaissance Center, trains will not stop at these stations after 2 p.m. All other stations remain open. People Mover rides are free. DDOT transfers from the Rosa Parks Transit Center should board at Times Square Station or the Bricktown Station for east side layovers. For more information, go to the People Mover site or call 313-224-2160.
Fox News
11 hours ago
- Fox News
Federal agents thwart man's explosive alleged plot against officers during LA riots
A man is in custody after federal authorities foiled an alleged plan to use large-scale fireworks and other explosive devices against police and government officials at riots protesting deportation efforts in California. Grzegorz Vandenberg, 48, is facing federal charges for allegedly buying fireworks with the intent to harm law enforcement officers and government officials at the Los Angeles protests, the Department of Justice said in a press release. Vandenberg allegedly visited a travel center in New Mexico, where he "requested assistance in selecting fireworks that could be thrown directly at people to cause harm," according to prosecutors. While at the store, federal authorities allege, he told employees he previously served in the military's special forces and claimed he could make pipe bombs before revealing he was planning to travel to Los Angeles to kill law enforcement officers and government officials in the anti-ICE riots. "This man allegedly intended to use the chaotic riots in Los Angeles as an opportunity to commit deadly violence against law enforcement officers," Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement. "Threats like these strike at the heart of law and order. We will not hesitate to bring federal charges against anyone who seeks to harm law enforcement or endanger the safety of our communities." Staff members at the store told authorities Vandenberg requested to buy the "largest explosives available" and invited an employee to join him at the riots, the DOJ said. He also allegedly claimed to be in possession of mortar explosives and further revealed his plan to use them on officers at the riots. Vandenberg ultimately "purchased six mortars," each containing 60 grams of gunpowder, and 36 large fireworks, according to federal prosecutors. "Our message is clear: If you come after law enforcement officers, the FBI will spare no effort to find you and bring you to justice," FBI Director Kash Patel said. "This defendant allegedly intended to use explosives to attack police officers currently conducting law enforcement operations in Los Angeles and – with the help of a store cashier who took down his license plate information – we were able to put a stop to that plan." The DOJ did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. Vandenberg was charged with transporting explosives in interstate commerce with the knowledge and intent that they would be used to kill, injure or intimidate individuals, according to the DOJ. He is in custody as he awaits trial and faces up to 10 years in federal prison if convicted. Fox News Digital was unable to immediately identify an attorney for Vandenberg. "Targeting law enforcement with violence is not protest – it's a crime," U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison for the District of New Mexico said. "Anyone who attempts to harm officers or undermine public safety will be held accountable."
Yahoo
a day ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Fireworks, Declaration of Independence readings highlight Fourth of July in Newport County
There are plenty of ways to celebrate the Fourth of July from cookouts to hitting the beach and so much more, but across Newport County you can bookend the day with that patriotic feeling. Options exist to start your day by harkening back to revolutionary times with readings of the Declaration of Independence and once the sun sets of course there are fireworks to enjoy. Some events also continue through the long-weekend to keep the celebration going. We've rounded up the events taking place this holiday to get you in the spirit and go beyond the hot dogs and hamburgers. Weather permitting, this year's display in Newport is scheduled to light up the harbor beginning at approximately 9:15 p.m. on Friday, July 4, with a rain date slated for the following day on July 5. With the Fourth of July falling on a Friday this year, Newport is expected to be especially busy, and the city is asking everyone to get involved in the celebration by donating to the City's Fireworks Fund. As in previous years, Premier Sponsorships will be offered for donations of $5,000, $2,500 and $1,500; however, donations of any amount are greatly appreciated. All donors – no matter the amount – will be recognized by the City both online and in print. If you're interested in making a donation to this year's fireworks display, please make your donation check payable to the 'City of Newport' with a notation of 'Fireworks Fund' on the memo line, and mail it to the attention of the Mayor's Office, 43 Broadway, Newport, R.I. 02840. More information about the City's fireworks display can also be found on the City's website at For over 100 years, the Rhode Island Society Sons of the Revolution has hosted Newport's Independence Day Celebration, and there is no more patriotic place to celebrate America's birthday than in Newport's Historic District. The Declaration of Independence was first read to the citizens of Rhode Island from the steps of the Colony House in Newport in 1776 and each Fourth of July, the event is recreated in celebration with music, cannons and a tribute to Newport's signer of the Declaration. All events are free. 9 a.m.: A commemoration of William Ellery, Newport's signer of the Declaration of Independence, at his grave site in Newport's Common Burying Ground on Farewell Street, led by the Daughters of the American Revolution and with participation of the Rhode Island Society Sons of the Revolution, and the Artillery Company of Newport. 9 to 11 a.m.: The Newport Historical Society will provide access to the Colony House, the fourth oldest State House inAmerica, with staff present to answer questions. 9:30 a.m.: Bike Newport will hold their annual bike parade from Ellery Park at Farewell and Thames Street. Decorate your bike and enjoy the fun. 10 to 11 a.m.: A rousing Patriotic concert in Eisenhower Park in Washington Square by the Newport Community Band at Salve Regina University, Peter Davis conducting. 11 a.m.: A reading of the Declaration of Independence by Colonel Roy Lauth, from the steps of the Colony House, the spot where it was first read to the Colony in 1776 by Major John Handy. 11:30 a.m.: In Washington Square, a 21-gun salute fired by the Artillery Company of Newport, using the fourcannons purchased from Paul Revere in 1798 by the new state of Rhode Island. The Common Burying Ground, established in 1640, includes the grave of Declaration signer William Ellery and the graves of other historic figures, such as Commodore Mathew Perry, who opened Japan to the West in 1854. God's Little Acre, a section of Common Burying Ground, is the largest cemetery of enslaved people in the United States. The Colony House was one of four seats of the colonial government in Rhode Island. Here on May 6, 1776, Rhode Island declared it no longer owed allegiance to the British crown, now known as Rhode Island Independence Day. The Continental Congress's Declaration of Independence was first read from the front steps of on July 22, 1776. Join fellow citizens at 9 a.m. on the grounds of Portsmouth Free Public Library to read aloud portions of our nation's founding document, the Declaration of Independence, adopted unanimously by a fledgling Congress 249 years ago on July 4, 1776. Copies will be available or bring your own. We welcome families – children are encouraged to read a passage. In case of rain the reading will be held inside the library in the Mello Program Room. Please provide your own chair or blanket and dress for the weather. Some participants like to wear red, white and blue for the occasion. By about 9:30 a.m., you will be on your way to parades and cookouts and other celebrations of the day. Escobar's Farm, 133 Middle Road, Portsmouth, announced they will have a fireworks display on Saturday, July 5, at 9 p.m. They will also host a tractor show beginning at 11 a.m. and the farm's concession stand will be open. At 9 a.m. the Tiverton Historical Society will hold the annual public reading of the Declaration of Independence at the WWI Doughboy memorial statue on the Tiverton Bicentennial Green by the old Stone Bridge next to Grinnell's Beach. This public reading is not like any other; those present are encouraged to read a marked passage from the Declaration so 'We the People' can all participate. Before the reading, a brief history of events of past years, including those leading up to the creation of the Declaration, is recounted. This typically takes less than half an hour, so you'll have plenty of time to celebrate the rest of the weekend. Held rain or shine. The event is scheduled for Sunday, July 6 at East Ferry. Music at 7 p.m. and fireworks at 9 p.m. This article originally appeared on Newport Daily News: July 4th fireworks, Declaration of Independence in Newport County
Yahoo
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Pymatuning Lake Fest draws thousands to area
By WARREN DILLAWAY warren@ ANDOVER TOWNSHIP — The Pymatuning Lake Festival is a major draw, bringing thousands of people to the area the first weekend in August. The festival takes place along the beach at Pymatuning Lake Park, near the causeway that takes people to Pennsylvania. The event has been providing entertainment for decades. The event is sponsored by the Pymatuning Area Chamber of Commerce, with any proceeds going back into the coffers to fund the next year's festival, PACC Executive Director Lara Reibold said. She said the event will take place Aug. 2 and 3, and organizers are trying to keep costs down. She said $5,000 more in sponsorships will help families enjoy cheaper options for their children. 'We are trying to keep the costs down,' Reibold said. She said there will be ice skating, in addition to a climbing wall that come under a $5 cost for multiple experiences, but there are also free activities for children as well. A major highlight of the event is fireworks at dusk Saturday. 'This will be the 41st [festival]', Reibold said. Craft vendors are also a big part of the weekend, along with a variety of entertainment options. 'I have vendors that are coming from North Carolina, Virgina ... [and] Chicago,' Reibold said. The vendors area is spread through the large parking area adjacent to the waterfront, and entertainment occurs on a stage created just for the event. The entertainment schedule for the weekends includes Karissa Hoovler at 11 a.m. Saturday, followed by Workin On It Trio at 12:30 p.m., MMAD at 1:45 p.m., Rick Hornyak and Co. at 3:15 p.m., Aphrodite's Hero at 4:30 p.m., Brett Allen Morgan at 6:30 and Candace Campana at 8 p.m. On Sunday, Firmly Grounded kicks off the entertainment at 10 a.m., followed by the Bitter Sweet — Johnny Bauer Duo at noon; Dawn Savage at 1:30 p.m. and the Sounds of Elvis-Jim Felix at 2:45 p.m.
