On Saturday, Dec. 1, FOX 50 taped the Durham Holiday Parade which was part of the annual Light Up Durham event.

Executive Producer Randy Mews and Producer Mark Bradley created a team using the talents of FOX 50 and WRAL employees to cover this event. FOX 50 news anchors Linda Loveland and Ken Smith hosted the festivities from a

broadcast booth high above Mangum Street, while weatherman Leon Smitherman reported from the street.

Unlike last year, which saw temperatures in the low 30’s and constant drizzling rain, this parade took place in bright sunshine and mild temperatures. The Light Up Durham organizers also gave the TV crew more control over the pacing of the parade this year, which led to better video coverage.

Executive Producer Randy Mews (left to right), Ken Smith, Leon Smitherman, Lynda Loveland, and Director Chris Bolanz go through the script in a pre-parade meeting.

The program aired Saturday, December 8, at 3:00 PM and delivered a 1.3 household rating. But don’t worry if you missed it: it will be broadcast again on FOX 50 on Christmas day at 11:00 AM.

Thanks to FOX50 Research Director Gerald Belton for this capcom story & photos.