Charles “Chic” Fojtik and wife Pamela were firework show devotees prior to moving to the Hill. Pamela, who died on Christmas Day 2016, missed the fireworks but loved living on the Hill after moving here from the South Bay in 2004.
Fojtik, along with friend, gallery owner and former Art Alliance President Gary Kuscher, hope to induce the same “oohs and aahs” that come with fireworks on the evening of July Fourth with a professional laser show to be shown on the face of Lily Rock. The show, created by Los Angeles-based Laserium Daystar, the leading name in laser-based entertainment, will be patriotic in theme and, in this first year, financed by Fojtik in honor of his wife and her love for the Fourth of July.
Said Fotjik, the show will only be using the face of Lily Rock as a screen and since no beams will extend upward, no aircraft will be impacted.
Laserium Daystar is obtaining all necessary permits “They [Laserium] do have a specific document regarding the aviation permit,” said Fotjik. Also, Fotjik is attempting to consult with Native American tribes about the show. “Pamela was one-eighth Cree, so it’s important to speak with the tribes.”
The Fotjiks had first seen a laser show in Egypt, when one was projected on the Great Pyramid. “We wondered why the same approach could not be done here,” said Fojtik. “This all got started before Pamela died.”
After her passing, Fotjik contacted Jon Robertson, associate creative director for Laserium Daystar. “After a visit to the Hill, Jon assured us that his team could indeed create a spectacular experience,” said Fotjik.
“I’m certain that once it is seen, there will be a desire to make it a permanent element of the Idyllwild July Fourth celebration. It will also give day visitors a solid reason to extend their time in Idyllwild, ” Kuscher said.
As with fireworks, the 30-minute inaugural laser show should begin around 9 p.m. for maximum effectiveness. Presenters are working to make a musical score meant to accompany the show available as audio on smart phones. Fotjik noted that Josh White, Idyllwild Inn, had donated a cabin for the Laserium crew.
The Idyllwild Rotary Club’s annual Fourth of July parade begins at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 4, at Fern Valley Corners.
