Arnold, CA…This last Saturday thousands lined Hwy 4 in Arnold for The 39th Annual Independence Day Parade sponsored by the Greater Arnold Business Association. It was organized by Arnold Postmaster Linda Baker. She and her army of volunteers did a wonderful job putting it all together. The attendees and entrants were there to celebrate our country’s 243rd birthday. Below are additional details on the entrants below.
The parade begin with the flashing lights, sirens and the awesome presence of the Ebbetts Pass Fire District, as they proudly displayed their vehicles. The theme this year was to acknowledge and honor the many American hero’s that inspire us on all levels.
The Ebbetts Pass Fire District is celebrating their 54th year anniversary serving the residents of the Highway Four corridor. Current services include wild land and structure fire suppression, advanced life support ambulance and engine staffing, various rescue specialties and public education. Engine 436, their wild land specific engine, has spent numerous hours outside of Calaveras County fighting California wildfires with other agencies of the California Office of Emergency Services. OES coverage ensures that they will serve other communities in their time of need and they will serve us in ours.
The Color Guard for the parade was the Ebbetts Pass Veterans Memorial District. Honoring those who have served our great nation. On board their float were past members of our military services. They are proud to pay tribute to the 5 branches of our military….ARMY, NAVY, AIR FORCE, MARINES AND COAST GUARD. We also salute the US National Guard. Proud to be Americans — Home of the Free, because of the brave.
In additional they are honoring Mr. Rick Ryan, also known as the Walking Man of Murphys. He represents “OPERATION MEND’ a branch of the Ronald Reagan Medical Center on Campus of UCLA. They offer physical mental and spiritual assistance to our many veterans. Family members are also free to stay while vets are treated at no change. Rick has walked over 8200 miles in 11 years and raised $135,000 for this cause. 95% of his donation come from the Mother Lode You too can donate to this worthy cause at Arnold Auto Supply or Autosmith Auto Body.
Grand Marshals of this year’s Parade were Rod & Vaughn Smith. We are proud to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of Rod Smith and his wife Vaughn. Rod has held several positions within the Lions and just recently was the past president of Calaveras Big Trees Park Association (CBTA) During his tenure he was able to orchestra the completion of the “Three Senses Trail” at the park with a budget of $225,000 of which Rod was the primary fund raiser. This project is a major improvement for the sensory challenged visitors to our park. Vaughn is also an Arnold Lion and a volunteer park docent. These are Our Arnold Heros.
Miss Calaveras County: Representing Calaveras County for 2019 is our newly crowned Queen, Miss Katherine Sharp and her Princesses court, Jillian Zahneser and Emily Bolton. Ironstone Vineyards is their sponsor. They represent our county with style and grace. Please give them a hand.
Arnold Classic Cars & Bill Deplich: These beautiful vehicles represent a sampling of the cars that will be shown at the July 21st Arnold Car Show, to be held at WHITE PINES PARK (new location) . This will be the 15th annual car show which brings vehicles of unique customization and has something for everyone with a beautiful new setting by the lake.
Don Kotoff: Don is driving his 2005 Ford Thunderbird (Retro-Bird) in triple black. Riding with Don was Dr. Jay Grimstead: Performing for you today on his trumpet is Dr. Jay. A resident of Murphys, he is known for playing his trumpet thru town from his car. ENJOY.
BIG TREES COMMUNITY BIBLE CHURCH & AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS Located in Arnold at 1216 Blagen Road, we have members of this church marching today. A non-denominational church that brings people together from different backgrounds. The Heritage Girls Troop CA 0016 is chartered by Big Trees Community Bible church. You are invited to join them on Sundays at 10:30.
EBBETTS PASS RIDERS: Also known as “OLD COOTS ON SCOOTS” is an AMA sanctioned Motor cycle club and was founded by George Tucker in 1947. There are currently 77 chapters worldwide. Chapter 20 ,Ebbetts Pass riders was started in 2013 and is based in Arnold California. Their Moto is: “Another Ride in Paradise.”
FIREHOUSE KUSTOMS As the new owner of the “Old Firehouse” in Arnold, Craig Hahn is showing is 1953 Dodge Firetruck.
MOUNTAIN ARTS AND STUDIO The performers are children inspired by the creative space at Mountain Arts, with art, music and self-expression. Today they are inspired by Dance.
MAUREEN CHASSY Minnie is a 1961 Morris Minor convertible. She is a frequent participant in our parades and we are happy she is back. She is a British Cab and is often referred to as the ‘smile car’ because that is what she does to people.
CALAVERAS COUNTY WATER DISTRICT (CCWD) Representing CCWD today is Daymon Wyckoff, director of Operations and Joel Metsger, External Affairs Manager. They are here to remind us that they proud to provide quality water to 13,000 customers in Calaveras County daily.
LUBE ROOM SALOON We have walking children and adults bringing their spirit for the Independence Day Parade down the hill from Camp Connell to Arnold.
PINEBROOK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION: The parade theme is seen by two active duty servicemen, US Navy Commander Gregory Coates and US Marine Gunnery Sergeant Anthony Seals. The float also recognized the US Army, US Air Force and US Coast Guard by mounted flags. Betsy Ross is sewing our wonderful American flag. The flora skirt is made from 900 paper napkins individually crafted and inserted in the float skirt. Designed by volunteers of the Pinebrook Community.
CALAVAERAS BIG TREES STATE PARK: This float is an ode to the America Camping tradition. Get out and enjoy your public lands. Featuring Tent, fire, kayak and a giant sequoia.
KEVINS CRANE COMPANY: Current Owners, Kevin and Bri Inks, are continuing a tradition started in 1984 by the Gilbeau’s. This massive piece of equipment is a necessary tool in this area. Aboard, are their children, cousins and friends. They are grateful for the brave men and women who have served and are serving this great country we call home. They are the Real American Hero’s!!
PAUL CALMAN AND FRIENDS: This 1929 Graham Paige Limo is only 1 of 4 in existence, custom built for Paramount Pictures to advertise for their Publix Theater chain. What a beauty.
GREG MULDOON AND FAMILY: The family outing includes their 1971 Yellow Mustang convertible. Enjoying the holidays in style. #16 DAVE NEEDHAM AND FAMILY: This is how to camp. In 1977 Westalia VW Camper that can handle the whole family. Happy 4th.
More about GABA can be found at cometoarnold.com & board positions are open if you would like to help with next year’s parade and other business events in the area.
The 2019 GABA Arnold Independence Day Parade! Over 100 Photos & Full Parade Video added by admin on
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