The skies may have opened up, but the spirit of Independence Day in Horseshoe Bay was brighter than ever. Despite challenging weather that canceled the outdoor Land and Boat Parades, the community came together for a heartfelt celebration honoring our local heroes, neighbors, and volunteers.
The theme this year was “Stars, Stripes, and Those Who Serve,” and the celebration centered on honoring the first responders and essential personnel who serve our area with dedication and care. We were proud to recognize the 2024 Grand Marshals: Police Chief Jason Graham, Assistant Police Chief Paul Nelson, EMS Executive Director Johnny Campbell, EMS Operations Director Starla McLaurin, Justice of the Peace Sam Silver, Constable Gary Silver, Michael Aponte from the City Utility Department, and Sharon Penny representing the Horseshoe Bay Fire Department. Llano County Sheriff Marquis Cantu was unable to attend due to an active flooding response in the county.
Although the Land and Boat Parades were canceled, the Dog Parade took the spotlight indoors. Dozens gathered to cheer on their four-legged friends. A big thank you goes to Kalli and Leeandra of Hosier N Friends Pet Sitting Services for running the event so smoothly, and to judges Paloma Guerrero, Dr. Judy MacArthur Clarke, and Erin Welch-Coker for helping pick the winners. The pooches strutted their stuff proudly on stage and stole the show.