Several dozen Canyon Lake residents showed up at an emergency meeting Tuesday to volunteer their time, money and expertise after Startz Memorial VFW Post 8800 announced it was canceling the 34th Annual 4th of July Parade in Startzville as the event’s main organizer deals with a medical crisis.
Among those who pledged to pick up the slack for Quartermaster Tessa Teel and keep the parade rolling were Debbie England, who runs the Canyon Lake Animal Shelter and a popular community Facebook page; Donna Dishman, chief executive officer of Canine Classmates; a member of the Canyon Lake Noon Lions; and a representative from State Rep. Carrie Isaac’s office.
“People need to understand that they’re losing it if they don’t stand behind it,” Dishman said.
Employees with MSystems offered to underwrite many of the parade’s expenses, and VFW Commander Todd Karch said the Water Oriented Recreation District of Comal County (WORD) also committed to providing financial assistance.
“I just hope it sticks, I want you all to stick,” said Teel, who was able to step aside in 2024 after another member of the VFW took over.
This year, that person is moving.
Teel said she doesn’t have the time to answer emails, phone calls, or social-media questions “not to mention all the checkmarks to the list of things to do.”
She turned to the Canyon Lake Area Chamber of Commerce earlier this year, but no one responded to a plea for help.
That changed this week.
The parade is back on — for now — but volunteers and supporters are still needed. For more information, email vfw8804thjulyparade@gmail.com.
