lake forest shores

Happy 246th Birthday!

July 4, 2022

Can you name the 35 year old lawyer who wrote the lyrics to our National Anthem in September 14, 1814? The song was inspired by the Battle of Baltimore in 1812 when the Royal British Navy bombed Fort McHenry, yet what flew in all of its glory at the end was the American flag, known as the "Star-Spangled Banner". And with its gain in popularity, it became tradition for the National Anthem to be played at every baseball game during World War II. (Yes, I fast forwarded in speed mode...) So now that we know a little bit of history, let's agree that the National Anthem is one of the most difficult piece of music to sing due to the melody having a range of different vocal tones from high to low throughout; even for the most professional vocalists. In my opinion, one of the best renditions of the Star-Spangled Banner came from Whitney Houston back in 1991; followed by another fantastic showing from Kelly Clarkson in 2012.

But before we go any further, the one who wrote the lyrics to the Star-Spangled Banner is Francis Scott Key. And here are the lyrics for those who wish to challenge their vocal skills:

O say, can you see
By the dawn's early light
What so proudly we hail'd
At the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars
Through the perilous fight
O'er the ramparts we watch'd
Were so gallantly streaming?
And the rocket's red glare
The bombs bursting in air
Gave proof through the night
That our flag was still there
O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free
And the home of the brave?

Every time I hear a spectacular rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner, it brings me chills. I was born in a different country and made the U.S.A my home years ago, but hearing the National Anthem brings about feelings of unity, pride, patriotism and respect towards this country.


So what to do on this Fourth of July? There is a brunch at the Beach & Tennis Club, but tickets needed to be purchased in advance. So for those going, enjoy!!! It sounds like it will be a FUN event for the family.

For those who are planning on going to see some spectacular firework shows, below is a list of the nearby events:

Aliso Viejo
Grand Park
Time: 6:00pm - 9:30pm
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Dana Point
Doheny State Beach
Time: All day event
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Huntington Beach
Pier, Main & PCH
Time: All day event
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Laguna Beach
Monument Point at Heisler Park
Time: All day event
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Laguna Hills
City of Laguna Hills Comm. Center
Time: 4:00pm - 9:00pm
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Lake Forest
Sun & Sail Club (Private Event)
Time: 12:00pm - 9:00pm
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Mission Viejo
Olympiad between Marguerite / Melinda
Time: 12:00pm - 9:00pm
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Rancho Santa Margarita
Beach Club Lagoon (Sold Out Tickets)
Time: 10:00am - 9:00pm
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San Juan Capistrano
SJC Sports Park
Time: 12:00pm - 9:00pm
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Tustin
Tustin High School
Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm
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Lastly, the 4th of July is a great time to fire up the grill for some delicious American foods; burgers and hot dogs. If that's your plan, remember that "sharing is caring". So don't forget my invite...LOL!

Happy 246th Birthday America!