Atwater’s Independence Day celebration is a perfect example of community pride | Opinion

Merced pulls together with purpose

“What to know about firework laws in Merced and where to see displays,” (mercedsunstar.com, June 30)

For more than six decades, Atwater’s Independence Day celebration has grown from a grassroots parade into one of the largest and most spirited public events in the Central Valley. It’s not just a show of patriotism, it’s a showcase of what happens when a community pulls together with purpose.

It begins with the Run for Independence at Ralston Park, continues with a downtown parade that rivals those of much larger cities and wraps up with thousands gathered under the night sky at Castle Commerce Center. It’s a full day of honoring veterans, supporting small businesses, recognizing local youth and service organizations and connecting neighbors from every part of Merced County.

The fireworks at Castle are more than just a finale, they’re symbolic: Castle, once an Air Force base, now stands at the center of one of the most significant economic development efforts in our region. We’re creating jobs, attracting investment and restoring a sense of long-term purpose to a site that means so much to our history. That’s what honoring freedom looks like in action — not just waving a flag, but laying the groundwork for a better future.

These celebrations are a reminder that the strength of our country begins in local communities. The spirit of July 4 isn’t just found in Washington, it’s found on the streets of Atwater, in the hard work of local volunteers and in the shared pride of families watching the parade roll by.

Daron McDaniel

Supervisor, Merced County District 3

Why I turned to activism

“Trump’s troop deployment to Los Angeles faces legal test,” (modbee.com, June 12)

Violence and revenge are raining down on American citizens. In the last several weeks, the Trump administration arrested or forcefully detained judges and elected officials, including Sen. Alex Padilla and New York City Comptroller Brad Landers.

It was these evil and unlawful acts — plus many others — that led me to activism. I was a retiree with nothing to do except watch the news and cry. Then, I actually got off the couch. I was so mad that I went to my first protest and was hooked. I joined Indivisible Stanislaus and my world changed.

The group’s kind and caring members helped me channel my angst into activism. This culminated in the “No Kings” event on June 14, where I found over 4,000 others who’ve had enough, too.

All of this begs the question: Is this kind of activism worth it? Thank goodness we have people like Cesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta and Martin Luther King Jr. who have shown that peaceful protest can create a shift in public opinion, making for a more kind and just world.

Drusilla Clough

Modesto

Turlock mayor’s priorities

“City council denies funding, puts Turlock shelter at risk,” (modbee.com, May 12)

Turlock Mayor Amy Bublak has ignored the interests of her constituents in the business community and all of us who shop and play here. Main Street, Geer Road, Country Side Drive by Fulkerth and the Monte Vista Crossings area are all impacted by residents, including the homeless. Turlock deserves a responsible mayor who is focused on fiscal responsibility, public safety and economic growth for all residents.

How does closing the We Care facility help maintain the quality of life here in Turlock? How does not helping everyone here in Turlock enhance the quality of life here? How does not offering a clean toilet 365 days a year for our homeless neighbors help prioritize the health and safety of our community?

Lynn G Sarraille

Turlock