Leonard Louis Smorin died June 25, according to <a href="http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Leonard-Smorin&amp;lc=7054&amp;pid=158225001&amp;mid=5149786&amp;locale=en_US" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">U-T San Diego</a><a href="http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Leonard-Smorin&amp;lc=7054&amp;pid=158225001&amp;mid=5149786&amp;locale=en_US" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"></a>. He was 80. He was a teacher at Mesa College and served as a parishioner at <a href="https://lamesa.patch.com/search?keywords=Santa+Sophia+Catholic+Church" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Santa Sophia Catholic Church</a> in Casa de Oro, according to the newspaper. A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 27 at <a href="https://lamesa.patch.com/search?keywords=Santa+Sophia+Catholic+Church" rel="noopener" target="_blank"></a>Santa Sophia Catholic Church, according to the newspaper.

Leonard Louis Smorin died June 25, according to <a href="http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Leonard-Smorin&amp;lc=7054&amp;pid=158225001&amp;mid=5149786&amp;locale=en_US" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">U-T San Diego</a><a href="http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Leonard-Smorin&amp;lc=7054&amp;pid=158225001&amp;mid=5149786&amp;locale=en_US" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"></a>.

He was 80. He was a teacher at Mesa College and served as a parishioner at <a href="https://lamesa.patch.com/search?keywords=Santa+Sophia+Catholic+Church" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Santa Sophia Catholic Church</a> in Casa de Oro, according to the newspaper.

A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 27 at <a href="https://lamesa.patch.com/search?keywords=Santa+Sophia+Catholic+Church" rel="noopener" target="_blank"></a>Santa Sophia Catholic Church, according to the newspaper.

San Diego County

San Diego Metropolitan Area

La Mesa-Mount Helix

California

He was also a parishioner at Santa Sophia Catholic Church.

Leonard Louis Smorin—Local Teacher—Dies at 80

Obituaries

Lemon Grove

Kristina Houck

Santee

San Diego

Coronado

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Poway

La Jolla

Rancho Bernardo-4s Ranch

Del Mar-Carmel Valley

Ramona

Hourglass Community Park

Mira Mesa Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks
Friday, July 3, 2026 - 4-9:30 p.m.
<ul><li>Community Picnic: 4-9:30 p.m. </li></ul>
Hourglass Field Community Park, 10440 Black Mountain Road, San Diego, CA
<ul><li>Fireworks: 9 p.m. </li></ul>
Wangenheim Middle School, 9230 Gold Coast Drive, San Diego, CA
From <a href="https://www.miramesatowncouncil.org/independence-day/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Mira Mesa Town Council</a>:
"We are planning the 2026 Mira Mesa Independence Day Celebration. There will be fireworks set off from the fields by Wangenheim Middle School at 9:00 PM on July 3rd, 2026. There will be a community picnic from 4 PM to 9:30 PM at Hourglass Field Community Park leading up to the fireworks. There will be food trucks, vendor and crafter booths. There will be a car show in the parking lot on the north side of the field starting at 4:00 PM."
<a href="https://miramesafireworks.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">More info here.</a>
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Local Event: Mira Mesa Independence Day Celebration And Fireworks 2026: Mira Mesa

Mira Mesa Independence Day Celebration And...

Mira Mesa Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks
Friday, July 3, 2026 - 4-9:30 p.m.
Community Picnic: 4-9:30 p.m....

Mira Mesa Independence Day Celebration And Fireworks 2026: Mira Mesa

SeaWorld San Diego

Fourth of July Fireworks
Saturday, July 4, 2026
<ul><li>Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m.</li></ul>
SeaWorld San Diego, 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA
<a href="https://seaworld.com/san-diego/park-info/theme-park-hours/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">From&nbsp;SeaWorld San Diego</a>: 
"Summer is back—and the fun is bigger than ever at SeaWorld San Diego. From dancing under the stars at electrifying outdoor concerts to heart‑pounding attractions and unforgettable live entertainment, excitement awaits around every corner.
"As night falls, look to the sky for the all‑new summer drone show, Ocean of Dreams—a breathtaking fusion of light, music, and storytelling that transforms the sky into a dazzling celebration of the sea. This unforgettable finale brings each summer night to a magical close.
"Make memories at our vibrant disco party, then turn up the nostalgia with a nine‑week concert series celebrating the golden era of ’90s and early‑2000s R&amp;B and hip‑hop, featuring iconic hits from some of the genre’s most influential artists. And that’s just the beginning—thrilling stunt shows and beloved characters bring the park to life all season long.
"Families can dive into kid‑friendly fun and discovery with the all‑new Shark Encounter, opening May 22, alongside inspiring marine‑animal presentations and interactive experiences designed to amaze guests of all ages.
"With extended summer hours and exciting seasonal offerings, there’s never been a better time to visit. Come experience the magic of summer at SeaWorld."*Drone show takes place nightly during Summer Spectacular except on July 4 when the park will offer a fireworks show.&nbsp;
<a href="https://seaworld.com/san-diego/park-info/theme-park-hours/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">More info here.</a>
-- Image credit: Shutterstock

Local Event: Fourth Of July Fireworks 2026: SeaWorld, San Diego

Fourth Of July Fireworks 2026: SeaWorld, San Diego

Fourth of July Fireworks
Saturday, July 4, 2026
Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m.
SeaWorld San Diego, 500 Sea World Drive, San...

Hoyt Park

Scripps Ranch 4th Of July Run &amp; Ride
Saturday, July 4, 2026
<ul><li>10K Race: 7 a.m.</li><li>2-Mile Fun Run: 7:07 a.m.</li><li>The run check-in tables open at 5:50&nbsp;a.m.&nbsp;at the intersection of Aviary and Red Cedar Drive.</li></ul>
Start locations vary. End location: Hoyt Park, 10800 Canyon Lake Drive, San Diego, CA 
<a href="https://patch.com/california/san-diego/calendar/event/20260704/38e80a49-05e9-46a5-a49b-1cfad844ab60/scripps-ranch-4th-of-july-run-ride-2026-san-diego" target="_blank">From Run &amp; Ride</a>:
10K Race
"The fastest 10K in the West.&nbsp;Our 10K course is a runner’s dream. You’ll run a (mostly) flat course around gorgeous Lake Miramar, which ends with a long downhill finish.Strap on your lightest running shoes and come set a personal record that will stand until next year when you do it all over again.
2-Mile Fun Run
"The 4th of July Fun Run is for everyone!Runners and walkers will enjoy this easy event designed for all members of the family. It features an exciting downhill finish that ends in Hoyt Park, where you can watch the Scripps Ranch Parade later that morning. The Fun Run is a community favorite!"
Also planned:
<ul><li>35-Mile Street Bike Ride</li><li>22.5-Mile Gravel Bike Ride</li><li>12-Mile Street Bike Ride</li></ul>
<a href="https://runride.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">More info here.</a>

Local Event: Scripps Ranch 4th Of July Run & Ride 2026: San Diego

Scripps Ranch 4th Of July Run & Ride 2026: San...

Scripps Ranch 4th Of July Run & Ride
Saturday, July 4, 2026
10K Race: 7 a.m.2-Mile Fun Run: 7:07 a.m.The run check-in tables...

Scripps Ranch 4th Of July Run & Ride 2026: San Diego

Standley Park

4th of July UC Celebration
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 7:45 a.m.-4 p.m.
Standley Recreation Center, 3585 Governor Drive, San Diego, CA
<a href="https://uccelebration.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">From University City Celebration</a>:
"Have you heard? It’s back! The Run, the Food, the Parade, the Games, the Vendor Booths, the Opportunity Drawing Gift Baskets, the Book Barn, the Pancake Breakfast, the Music and Concerts…and so Much More!"

<a href="https://uccelebration.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">More info here.</a>
-- Image credit: Shutterstock

Local Event: 4th Of July UC Celebration 2026: Standley Recreation Center, San Diego

4th Of July UC Celebration 2026: Standley...

4th of July UC Celebration
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 7:45 a.m.-4 p.m.
Standley Recreation Center, 3585 Governor Drive, San...

4th Of July UC Celebration 2026: Standley Recreation Center, San Diego

The Spirit of the Fourth 57th Annual Fair, Parade, Concert, Fireworks
Saturday, July 4, 2026
Community Fair: 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
<ul><li>Webb Park, 11666&nbsp;Avena Place, San Diego, CA</li></ul>
Parade: 3:30-5 p.m.
Evening Entertainment: 6-9 p.m. Fireworks: 9 p.m.
<ul><li>Rancho Bernardo High School, 13010 Paseo Lucido, Rancho Bernardo, CA</li></ul>
From <a href="https://spiritofthefourth.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Spirit of the Fourth Rancho Bernardo</a>:
"Rancho Bernardo's premiere 4th of July celebration with fun for the entire family!&nbsp;Events occur throughout the day in Webb Park and the evening fireworks celebration takes place at Rancho Bernardo High School.&nbsp;Come join the fun, volunteer your time to make the celebrations great, or support through donations." 
<a href="https://spiritofthefourth.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">More info here.</a>
-- Image credit: Shutterstock

Local Event: The Spirit Of The Fourth Fair, Parade, Concert, Fireworks 2026: Rancho Bernardo

The Spirit Of The Fourth Fair, Parade, Concert,...

The Spirit of the Fourth 57th Annual Fair, Parade, Concert, Fireworks
Saturday, July 4, 2026
Community Fair: 9 a.m.-12:30...

The Spirit Of The Fourth Fair, Parade, Concert, Fireworks 2026: Rancho Bernardo

Red Cedar Drive

55th Annual Scripps Ranch 4th of July Parade
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 10 a.m. 
Red Cedar Drive to Aviary Drive at Canyon Lake Drive, San Diego, CA

From <a href="https://www.scrippsranch.org/committees/4th-of-july/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Scripps Ranch Civic Association</a>:
"The parade starts at 10 am from Red Cedar Drive and Ironwood Rd. and ends at Aviary Drive at Canyon Lake Drive"You are invited to Hoyt Park activities hosted by the Scripps Ranch Old Pros."The 4th of July is one of the greatest days in Scripps Ranch! The SRCA hosts the 4th of July Parade as we have for the past 51 years. A true small town tradition."
<a href="https://www.scrippsranch.org/committees/4th-of-july/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">More info here.</a>

Local Event: Scripps Ranch 4th Of July Parade 2026: San Diego

Scripps Ranch 4th Of July Parade 2026: San Diego

55th Annual Scripps Ranch 4th of July Parade
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 10 a.m. 
Red Cedar Drive to Aviary Drive at Canyon Lake...

Town Center Park East

Santee Salutes
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 2-10 p.m.
<ul><li>Fireworks at 9 p.m.</li></ul>
Town Center Community Park East, 550 Park Center Drive, Santee, CA
<a href="https://www.cityofsanteeca.gov/calendar/events/santee-salutes---america250/46207" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">From City of Santee</a>:
"Event Timeline:"2:00 PM -&nbsp;Parking Lots Open
"3:00 PM - Shuttle Buses begin from Costco to event site
"4:00 PM -&nbsp;Food Vendors | Riverwalk Grill Open
"6:00 PM - Santee Salutes America's 250th Ceremony | Color Guard
"8:15 PM - Last shuttle leaves Costco before the fireworks display
"6:30 - 9:00 PM -&nbsp;Live Entertainment (TBA)
"9:00 PM -&nbsp;Fireworks Display • Music Available on SanteeTV
"9:30 - 11:00 PM - Return shuttles to Costco"
<a href="https://www.cityofsanteeca.gov/calendar/events/santee-salutes---america250/46207" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">More info here.</a>
-- Image credit: Shutterstock

Local Event: Santee Salutes 2026: Town Center Community Park East, Santee

Santee Salutes 2026: Town Center Community Park...

Santee Salutes
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 2-10 p.m.
Fireworks at 9 p.m.
Town Center Community Park East, 550 Park Center Drive,...

Santee Salutes 2026: Town Center Community Park East, Santee

Kennedy Park

July 4th Fireworks
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 3-10 p.m.
<ul><li>Fireworks: 9 p.m.</li></ul>
Kennedy Park, 1675 E. Madison Ave., El Cajon, CA
From <a href="https://www.elcajon.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/3983/478?curm=7&amp;cury=2026" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">City of El Cajon</a>:
"The City of El Cajon will host fireworks on July 4th at 9:00 pm at Kennedy Park. Other free activities will be offered as well including:
"3:00 PM - 7:00 PM Train Rides
"3:00 PM - 7:00 PM Arts and Crafts and Family Games
"3:00 PM - 9:00 PM 35 Productions with DJ Danny
"9:00 PM Fireworks
"For more information, please call (619) 441-1699."
<a href="https://www.elcajon.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/3983/478?curm=7&amp;cury=2026" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">More info here.</a>&nbsp;
- Image via Shutterstock

Local Event: July 4th Fireworks 2026: El Cajon

El Cajon

July 4th Fireworks 2026: El Cajon

July 4th Fireworks
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 3-10 p.m.
Fireworks: 9 p.m.
Kennedy Park, 1675 E. Madison Ave., El Cajon, CA
From...

Maritime Museum of San Diego

4th of July Celebration and Fireworks on the Bay
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 6-9:30 p.m.
<ul><li>Gate opens at 6 p.m.</li><li>Fireworks begin at 9 p.m.</li></ul>
<a href="https://sdmaritime.org/visit/special-events/july-4-celebration/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">From Maritime Museum:</a>&nbsp;
"Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at the Maritime Museum of San Diego during an expanded waterfront Fourth of July celebration unlike anything we’ve offered before.
"For 2026, guests will have access to multiple historic ships, waterfront venues, live entertainment areas, DJs, food stations, bars, and some of the most unique fireworks viewing locations on San Diego Bay.
"Whether you choose a reserved VIP experience or flexible Event Admission access, this year’s celebration transforms the Maritime Museum campus into a waterfront festival experience leading up to San Diego’s spectacular Big Bay Boom fireworks display."
<a href="https://sdmaritime.org/visit/special-events/july-4-celebration/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">More info here.</a>
-- Image credit: Shutterstock

Local Event: 4th Of July Celebration And Fireworks On The Bay 2026: Maritime Museum, San Diego

4th Of July Celebration And Fireworks On The...

4th of July Celebration and Fireworks on the Bay
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 6-9:30 p.m.
Gate opens at 6 p.m.Fireworks begin at 9...

4th Of July Celebration And Fireworks On The Bay 2026: Maritime Museum, San Diego

Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center

Chula Vista Fourth Fest
Saturday, July 4, 2026 
<ul><li>Gates Open: 7 p.m.</li><li>Fireworks: 9 p.m.</li></ul>
Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, 2800 Olympic Parkway, Chula Vista, CA
<a href="https://www.chulavistaca.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/40105/2854?curm=7&amp;cury=2026" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">From City of Chula Vista:</a>
"Free July 4th fireworks at the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, set to a custom bilingual soundtrack heard only on Amor 102.9.
"Gates to the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center (CVEATC) open at 7 p.m. for public viewing.&nbsp;Firework display begins at 9 p.m. The event is free, open to the public, and all ages. Food trucks will be on site. Parking is FREE; only 600 parking spots on CVEATC campus and adjacent New Hope Church parking lot.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chulavistaca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/26192/638198511565193225" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">See map for parking details.</a>&nbsp;Another popular area to view the fireworks is at the City's Mountain Hawk Park, located at 1475 Lake Crest Drive."
<a href="https://www.chulavistaca.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/40105/2854?curm=7&amp;cury=2026" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">More info here.</a>
-- Image via Shutterstock

Local Event: Chula Vista Fourth Fest 2026: Chula Vista

Chula Vista

Chula Vista Fourth Fest 2026: Chula Vista

Chula Vista Fourth Fest
Saturday, July 4, 2026 
Gates Open: 7 p.m.Fireworks: 9 p.m.
Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center,...

Big Bay Boom
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 9:15 p.m.
<a href="https://bigbayboom.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">From Port of San Diego</a>:
The Big Bay Boom fireworks show is displayed from four barges on San Diego Bay at 9:15 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs, friends and boats to watch from these locations:
<ul><li><a href="https://www.bigbayboom.com/locations/shelter-island/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Shelter Island</a></li><li><a href="https://www.bigbayboom.com/locations/harbor-island/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Harbor Island</a></li><li><a href="https://www.bigbayboom.com/locations/north-embarcadero-viewing/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">North Embarcadero</a></li><li><a href="https://www.bigbayboom.com/locations/north-embarcadero-viewing/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Marina District</a></li><li><a href="https://www.bigbayboom.com/locations/coronado-ferry-landing-viewing/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Coronado Ferry Landing</a></li><li><a href="https://bigbayboom.com/locations/from-the-water/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Boating/On The Water</a></li></ul>
<a href="https://bigbayboom.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">More info here.</a>
-- Image credit: Shutterstock

Local Event: Big Bay Boom 2026: San Diego — Coronado

Big Bay Boom 2026: San Diego — Coronado

Big Bay Boom
Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 9:15 p.m.
From Port of San Diego:
The Big Bay Boom fireworks show is displayed from four...

🌱 Patch AM: Why La Mesa’s fruit trees are now...

Coming up on the La Mesa Patch calendar: Mira Mesa Independence Day Celebration And Fireworks 2026: Mira Mesa

🌱 Patch AM: Why La Mesa’s fruit trees are now under strict quarantine rules

Community Corner

Missing Marine Declared Dead After...

The circumstances surrounding the 21-year-old’s disappearance are under investigation, according to a Marine Corps news release.

Missing Marine Declared Dead After Disappearance Off SoCal Coast

Crime & Safety

'Stuff The Bus' Campaign Seeks School Supply...

More than 24,000 school-age children in San Diego County have been identified as experiencing homelessness, officials said. 

'Stuff The Bus' Campaign Seeks School Supply Donations For Homeless Students In San Diego County

Schools

North Island Credit Union Launches Backpack...

The credit union will fill each donated backpack with school supplies.

North Island Credit Union Launches Backpack Drive For San Diego Students

🌱 Patch AM: What’s new at La Mesa Oktoberfest...

Happening soon: Mira Mesa Independence Day Celebration And Fireworks 2026: Mira Mesa on the La Mesa Patch calendar

Nearby Communities

State Edition

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Obituaries

Leonard Louis Smorin—Local Teacher—Dies at 80

He was also a parishioner at Santa Sophia Catholic Church.

Hoa Quách, Patch Staff

Find out what's happening in La Mesa-Mount Helixfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Find out what's happening in La Mesa-Mount Helixfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

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Leonard Louis Smorin—Local Teacher—Dies at 80

He was also a parishioner at Santa Sophia Catholic Church.

Hoa Quách, Patch Staff<img alt="Verified Patch Staff Badge" class="styles_Badge__np_hU" src="https://patch.com/img/cdn/assets/layout/badges/verified-patch-staff.svg"/>

Find out what's happening in La Mesa-Mount Helixfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Find out what's happening in La Mesa-Mount Helixfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Hoa Quách, Patch Staff