American flags clasped in the hands of small, laughing children. Countless people sitting in lawn chairs wearing shirts that say “United we Stand” or “I LOVE NY.” The feeling of patriotism and unity still fresh in the air and a huge American flag being used as a backdrop.
The 2002 Bakersfield Unites For the Stars and Stripes, held at the Marketplace Sunday from 2 to 9 p.m., was a chance for the community to gather and savor the spirit of unity. And according to Lili Marsh, the event’s organizer, that was the point.
“Everyone seemed a little nicer after 9/11,” Marsh said. “If you can remind people of that once a year, that’s the goal.”
Marsh also organized last year’s event, which was attended by approximately 20,000 people and raised $75,000 for the Red Cross, and says she hoped this becomes an annual event. The event was also sponsored by KERO Channel 23 News.
“We are asking that you continue this beautiful tradition of bringing our community together in the spirit of patriotism, unity and celebrating that you (terrorists) may tear down our buildings, but you cannot destroy our spirit,” said newscaster Jackie Parks.
Mayor Harvey Hall also spoke of the community before introducing a painting entitled “Bakersfield Pride” donated to the city by artist Thomas Kinkade.
“I’m so proud of the city of Bakersfield and our community,” Hall said. “You care about people, you care about your freedom and about your liberty. But most of all, you care about your neighbors.”
Tents also were also set up, offering face paintings, American flags and balloons. Among the performers was a dance group from St. Augustine Church in Lamont, wearing brightly colored dresses and jackets and moving to traditional mariachi music in honor of the “saints” who had died in last year’s terrorist attacks. Various local musicians performed, from Fat Daddy Blues Band to Mento Buru. There was even a rendition of “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes, and a photo montage of various American symbols, from the Statue of Liberty to the bald eagle, shown over “America the Beautiful.”
The grand finale could have been a scene straight from a movie: A vibrant display of fireworks cascading down in vivid reds, greens and golds. For most of the kids, it was probably the best reason for sticking around until 9 p.m. and for the adults, perhaps a sealing of their patriotism. Before the night’s fireworks, Kern County Sheriff Carl Sparks spoke of the country’s stand against terrorism and how proud he was to be a part of Bakersfield.
“Bakersfield is my home,” he said. “When I retire, Bakersfield will continue to be my home. There’s no place like Bakersfield.”