国际英语资讯:Independence Day weekend celebrations diminish in U.S. West_时事

国际英语资讯:Independence Day weekend celebrations diminish in U.S. West

Perhaps the most subdued Independence Day occurred in California, where Governor Gavin Newsom this week ordered the three-week closures of bars, indoor restaurant dining areas and other indoor venues for 21 of 58 counties, including the two most populous, Los Angeles and San Diego.

"California is in a make-or-break moment with infection rates and hospitalizations rising sharply," Newsom told the media, as beaches were closed throughout the state - a usual destination for thousands of state residents.

In Northern California, police reported incidents of citizens climbing over barricades in violation of local ordinances to go to the beach anyway.

"It was just a revolving door of people climbing over the barricades, getting set up and getting kicked out," said Jessica Blair, Half Moon Bay's communications director.

In southern California, the sunny skies did not brighten the somber Fourth of July mood, with beaches and businesses closed.

Local law enforcement announced stiff penalties. West Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Monterey announced enforcing mask mandates with tickets ranging from 100 to 300 U.S. dollars for a first offense.

A number of California towns and municipalities broadcast "virtual" Independence Day parades on the internet.

STAYING HOME

Wyoming's largest city and capital Cheyenne staged a massive fireworks display with the intention of allowing local residents to enjoy the spectacle from their own backyards.