Thanks to generous donations, Visalia to put on first fireworks show in three years

VISALIA, Calif. (KFSN) -- Those in the South Valley have a reason to celebrate, because for the first time in three years, there will be a Fourth of July celebration in Visalia, including fireworks.

"It shows our independence, you know, our freedom," said Tulare's Gina Saur. "So it's nice to have something that can celebrate that."

Earlier this year, the city of Visalia committed $20,000 to the festivities, and called on community organizations to host the event and raise money for the remaining costs. They eventually selected a bid from CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Tulare County.

"We thought what better event could there be than the 4th of July, fireworks, an all-day celebration put on by CASA," said Visalia Mayor Warren Gubler. "We have food trucks, we have activities, we have games and booths. We have the golden west swimming pool that is open all afternoon for free swimming."

"We don't know (how much money) we're going to collect out of the parking lot, we don't know what we're going to get off of water, we don't know what we're going to get off of donations, but that will go straight to casa, to helping recruit, screen, train new volunteers for the kids," said CASA Executive Director Paul Moore.

Valley Sikhs also set up a booth at the event. They currently have a campaign to promote understanding of their community and religion, and to stand up against ignorance and injustice.

"Sikh values are actually American values, and if i put it another way, American values are Sikh values," said Amrit Singh, with We are Sikhs.

After learning the city could use some help, local Sikhs contacted the national campaign, which donated $10,000 to this year's event. Organizers say they have enough money for another event next year.

Fireworks will begin after dark, and Groppetti Stadium will be open for seating.