Fantastic 4th in Modesto
By Chris Murphy
The 142nd Annual Modesto 4th of July Parade was a celebration of all things Modesto. 20,000+ people lined the streets of downtown Modesto to celebrate our own version of ModestoCana. This is really a special day and our community feels like we are all together. I was so honored to be named the Grand Marshal of this amazing Modesto tradition and it was even more special sharing it with my family.
Over 108 entries were in this annual event and it was a beautiful cool morning as the parade kicked off at 9:30 sharp. The National Anthem was sung as a giant flag dropped from the sky and our local military delivered the colors with pride and precision.
Then we were off to the races with our local elected officials, candidates for office, local businesses, equestrian units, kids groups, non –profits, marching bands, youth theatre and so much more. There is really nothing like this event and the Modesto parade is one of the longest running 4th of July parades west of the Mississippi.
And the end, the panel of judges had to make their call on the winners for each category and they are listed below.
Thank you to the Modesto Kiwanis Club for making this parade a reality, to Jeremiah Williams for being the Parade President and to John Fields for the management of this great event and all of the volunteers that staffed corners, judged the floats and to all that came out to support and enjoy this Modesto tradition. See you next year
* Trophy – 2016 Parader winner
* Chairman Trophy/best overall- Filipino-American association of Stanislaus Co.
* Overall Equestrian Unit – “Thundering farm supply Percherons”
* Individual Equestrian – Raven & Skyler Ring
* Equestrian Club – Back Country
* Farm Entry – Frank Sherman
* Antique Car (Pre-1940) – Allen Velthoen-1922 Packard
* Classic Car (Pre-1973) – Central Valley British car club
* Antique Car Club – Modesto area A’s club
* Custom Car Club – Highway 99 PT cruiser’s
* Motorcycle Group – MPD
* Marching Band – Music Cadets
* Musical Group – Moose Lodge
* Dance/Drill/Cheer Group – PJ’s Dance Studio
* Military Unit – Commemorative Air Force
* Color Guard – American legion post 74
* Corporate Entry – VMI Roberts Auto Sale
* Ethnic Group – Sons of Italy
* Non-Profit Group – Victory Out reach Church
* Comical/Entertaining Entry – J.M.Fagundes & “Bucking Horse Car”-Mr Ed
* Kids Group – Tallcott Academy & Beyer Robotics representing F.I.R.S.T.
* Political Entry – Eggman for Congress
* Dignitary -Congressiman Jeff Denham
* Custom Car (Individual) Legacy limousines
* Trophies can be picked up at MODESTO convention and visitors Bureau
