It would have been the first Memorial Day Parade in years without one of the most colorful veterans of our times, but due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the annual St. Joseph Memorial Day Parade sponsored by St. Joseph Today has been cancelled. It would have been the first in a long time without one of our favorite soldiers, Arden Pridgeon, who made appearances year after year until his recent death. 
Amy Zapal, Executive Director of St. Joseph Today says that due to the latest developments regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Memorial Day Parade, which had been scheduled for Friday, May 22nd, will not take place.
Zapal says, “The health of our visitors, residents and members is critical to St. Joe Today. With the well-being of our community in mind, we have decided to cancel the Memorial Day Parade scheduled Friday, May 22nd.” She adds, “This decision was not made lightly. We will continue to monitor the situation regarding coronavirus and other upcoming St. Joe Today events.”
In the meantime, the staff at St. Joe Today asks everyone to please adhere to the following recommended guidelines to help control the spread of illnesses –
- Hand-washing is the best self-defense against the spread of germs. As a supplement, use antibacterial hand sanitizer. Please do this often.
- Identify alternative greetings that are comfortable for you such as a fist or elbow bump.
- If you are not feeling well, especially if you have a fever, are coughing or sneezing or are experiencing shortness of breath, please remain home and out of public places.
- If you have traveled to any of the countries where there are outbreaks of the virus, please follow guidance on the CDC website.
For more information on COVID-19, you are encouraged to visit the Berrien County Health Department’s website.
