Fresno’s Veteran’s Day parade is the last of its kind to call off its traditional recognition event because of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to organizers.
Veteran’s Day Parade is a Virtual Tribute
The actual parade wouldn’t be possible with California’s COVID restrictions in place. Its leaders turned a difficult situation into a creative one. They say the annual patriotic event goes on today as a virtual tribute this time.
In 1919, the Fresno parade began. It’s been going on every year since. With the exception of World War II, parade leaders say.
Featured Dignitaries
Mayor-elect Jerry Dyer, Congressman Jim Costa, and Fresno City Councilmember Garry Bredefeld who are dignitaries will all make appearances this year.
Veteran’s Day Parade Plans
“So we sat for five, six hours and said, OK, come on, we can do this,” said Virginia Cardinal, the parade’s coordinator of operations. She spoke by phone to GV Wire from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. “It all worked out so far.”
However, recently relocated from Clovis, Cardinal plans to continue helping to organize the local parade in years to come.
Creating This Year’s Video Version
Cardinal says her committee spent money to hire multimedia production specialist Alex Fabros, a veteran himself. This was to create this year’s video version. Fabros is putting the finishing touches on the virtual production. Moreover, it’s been weeks in the making, Cardinal said.
Therefore, it will be shown on CMAC’s cable TV channels and will be streamlining online via YouTube.
Multiple Production Locations
Cardinal says organizers spent weeks shooting on-location video at approximately 15 sites throughout the Central Valley.
Moreover, places like Biola, Coarsegold, Squaw Valley, and Fresno’s VA Hospital were turned into secret production sets for groups and individuals participating in the parade.
When and How To Watch
The event should run about 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Cardinal says the program air on TV by CMAC 1 public channel from 12pm – 2pm (2 hour broadcast) starting at 12pm Wednesday.
CMAC 1 is on Comcast Xfinity Ch 93, AT&T U-verse Ch 99, the webstream: cmac.tv/public/ and “CMAC” app available on Roku devices.
The full video will also posted on YouTube at about midnight on Tuesday night. The link is on the Fresno Veterans Day Parade official Facebook page.
If you’re thinking about having a parade of your own in the town you move to, consider us one of the star floats! Our car transporting business will get your squad to the next town at an affordable rate. Check here for a free quote and get started on the parade route today!
