A year ago, the Ripon First Responders Appreciation Day was called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The community-wide event returns on Saturday, April 2, beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the Ripon Police Department, 259 N. Wilma Ave.

Everybody from families, friends and coworkers are invited to attend this salute to the hometown heroes.

From the police station, those honoring the local first responders can take part in the parade along West Main Street through the historic downtown to the Ripon Consolidated Fire Department at 142 S. Stockton Ave.

Once at the fire department, the special event will feature a short presentation along with refreshments and snacks.

Emergency vehicles will be on display.

The City of Ripon Vice Mayor Mike Restuccia announced at Tuesday’s meeting that San Joaquin County Sheriff Pat Withrow will be the guest speaker.

He’s been with the department for 29 years. Withrow was elected Sheriff in 2018.

Organizers added: “This is a great opportunity to meet our local heroes and thank them for their service.”

In addition, the first 200 participants will receive free t-shirts.

The first-ever Ripon First Responder Appreciation Day took place in 2017.

For more information, log on to www.facebook.com/RiponFirstRespondersAppreciationDay.