34 minute read
Float Order
Float X Military 4th Reconnaissance Battalion
Whether they are fighting the floodwaters of hurricanes or braving the sands of Iraq, the 4th Reconnaissance Battalion has represented the United States and the city of San Antonio with exceptional capabilities in all aspects of military operations.
This elite battalion traces its roots back to the formation of the 4th Marine Division in WWII to the sands of Iwo Jima where the Division fought its first fight.
The primary mission of the Battalion is to conduct amphibious reconnaissance and other specialized tasks in support of the Marine Air Ground Task Force throughout the execution of numerous military operations.
There are four companies stationed around the country as well as one Detachment in Hawaii. The Battalion and two additional companies are stationed right here in San Antonio. The Battalion has fought in every major U.S. Campaign since WWII and continues to serve around the globe today.
Participants: Identity Secret
No Federal Endorsment Implied
No. 1 Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Warden and Park Police
Sponsor: Paloma Blanca and Chris Madrid’s Restaurants Serving as the 2022 River Parade Honor Guard is Game Warden David Nieto and Park Police Member Brady Wise.
Texas Game Wardens help to manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and ensure hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
The San Antonio Park Police are dedicated Law Enforcement professionals united in their commitment of service to the community. They provide assistance to the public, preserve the peace, protect life and property in more than 18,000 acres of park lands in over 200 city-owned parks and other facilities.
No. 2 King Antonio XCIX (99th) Barton T. Simpson
King Antonio XCIX Barton T. Simpson was honored to be crowned the 99th King of the Texas Cavaliers in a ceremony in front of the Alamo earlier this week. Serving as King, he will have the privilege of continuing the organization’s mission to provide opportunities for children, presenting more than $2,000,000 dollars to local children’s charities. Since its founding in 1989, the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation has distributed more than $10 million dollars to the children of San Antonio.
Fiesta as a celebration of the diverse culture of our community has been a tradition in Bart’s family, and extended family, throughout his life. His family has a long tradition of service to the San Antonio community, Texas and the military. They are direct descendants of Spanish Canary Islanders that helped settle San Antonio and laid the cornerstone at San Fernando Cathedral. His family has called San Antonio home for 15 generations.
Bart is a graduate of Baylor University and is currently President of Simpson Development where he manages real estate and investment interests. He and his beautiful wife, Marnie, are parents to two daughters and one grandson. Throughout the years, he has served on numerous committees and boards, and developed multiple real estate projects in San Antonio and South Texas.
During his reign, King Antonio and his fellow Cavaliers will visit schools, military bases, hospitals, charitable organizations and other Fiesta events continuing to celebrate the diversity of our city as well as their mission to support and benefit the children of San Antonio. Participants: King Antonio: XCIX Barton T. Simpson, Day Aide: Mr. Jim Satel, Night Aide: Mr. Stuart Carter, Executive Aide: Mr. Andrew Price
No. 3 Grand Marshal and Art Contest Winner Honorary Grand Marshal Randy Rogers
Sponsor: H-E-B Known throughout the world as a top country singer for more than 20 years, Randy Rogers and his band, The Randy Rogers Band, have delivered numerous number one hits securing their spot as a top contributor to Texas’s thriving country music scene. His career encompasses eight studio albums, global streaming numbers in the millions, seven singles charted on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, and six Top 10 albums on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, including five with his band and one with Wade Bowen. Recently he released a lead single titled “Picture Frames” off their soon-to-be-released album. He has appeared and collaborated with many Texas music legends including forming The Stryker Brothers with his mentor, Robert Earl Keen, and appearing on Michael Martin Murphey’s album Austinology.
Expanding his interests in Texas, he co-owns multiple venues across in the Lone Star State including Cheatham Street Warehouse in San Marcos. In September of 2021, he launched his brand-new whiskey brand, Bahnbrecker. He is also the founder of philanthropic projects including the annual Randy Rogers Band Charity Golf Jam and Tournament, and the Randy Rogers Foundation. Please welcome with a big round of applause the Honorary Grand Marshall of the 2022 Texas Cavaliers River Parade Randy Rogers and the Randy Rogers Band!
Texas Cavaliers River Parade Art Contest
The Texas Cavaliers River Parade Art Contest continues in its 18th year encouraging our public elementary school youth to express themselves artistically while creating images of the River Parade theme. Joining the Grand Marshal tonight is the 2022 Grand Prize Art Contest winner Sofia Liceaga, along with her teacher from Bob Lewis Elementary, Ms. Owens.
Susan Naylor Sellers
Also riding is Susan Naylor Seller, mother of Will and founder of the Will Smith Foundation. Will’s generosity and love of life has inspired the creation of The Will Smith Foundation to continue his benevolence.
Participants: Randy Rogers – Grand Marshal, Susan Naylor Sellers, Shane Sellers - Susan’s husband, Sofia Liceaga – 2022 Art Contest Winner, Ms. Owens – Sofia’s art teacher
No. 4 Texas Cavaliers River Parade Charitable Honoree Haven For Hope
Sponsor: Valero Energy Corporation The Cavaliers are honored to announce the 2022 River Parade Charitable Honoree is Haven for Hope. Founded in 2010 by the founder and chairman of NuStar Energy L.P., Mr. Bill Greehey, their mission is to offer a one-stop destination for assistance for people experiencing homelessness in San Antonio. Their programs offer hope and new beginnings.
Prior to the founding of Haven for Hope, resources for people experiencing homelessness were geographically distant from each other and under many different administrations. The vision for Haven for Hope was to be more than just a shelter. Today that vision is realized and encompasses a transformational campus dedicated to meet individuals, families and children where they are and support them as they move toward self-sufficiency. They provide, coordinate and deliver an efficient system of programs addressing the root cause of homelessness by offering specific resources tailored to the needs of the individual.
Haven for Hope’s budget annually is around $25 million with around 42% contributed from the private sector. On any given day there are approximately 300 children living on campus.
Sponsor: Jefferson Bank Celebrating all aspects of Texas outdoorsmanship, City Kids Adventures provides unique opportunities for Texas youth to experience fishing as depicted here, hunting, boating and other outdoor activities. This program specializes in developing confidence, integrity, respect of nature and animals, among other character-building traits in today’s youth.
Participants: Leon McNeil - Head of City Kids Adventures
No. 6 Military Fiesta Ambassadors
Sponsor: USAA The 2022 Military Fiesta Ambassadors represent the six military service branches and promote the military’s commitment to and relationship with local communities, fostering positive community relations. The Military Fiesta Ambassadors are honored to be part of “Military City U.S.A” and Fiesta 2022.
These Ambassadors hold their position for one year and attend pre-Fiesta events, as well as a full slate of activities during Fiesta week. They will also continue to represent the military at the events that take place afterward as the Fiesta Commission prepares for next year’s week-long celebration.
Band: Protocol: Combo from the US Air Force Band of the West
Participants:
U.S. Air Force Ambassadors Staff Sergeant Clarissa Scott and Staff Sergeant Daniel Velasquez
U.S. Army Ambassadors Master Sergeant Karenlee Hockenberry and Staff Sergeant Corey Walton
U.S. Marine Corps Ambassadors Sergeant Grant Finkbeiner and Sergeant Dominique Rudisel
U.S. Navy Ambassadors Petty Officer First Class Henson Chiong and Petty Officer First Class Samantha Teliczan
U.S. Coast Guard Ambassadors Petty Officer Second Class Casey Travers and Petty Officer Third Class Yulianis Rodriguez
U.S. Space Force Ambassador Master Sergeant Edin Olano
No Federal Endorsment Implied
No. 7 U.S. Air Force (75th Anniversary) Air Education & Training Command (80th Anniversary)
Sponsor: Bud Light / Silver Eagle Beverages
Significant Fact #1:
Air Education and Training Command (AETC), with headquarters at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, was established and activated in January 1942, and is the first command to touch the life of almost every Air Force member. The Air Force starts here!
Significant Fact #2:
This year (2022), marks the Air Force’s 75th anniversary and Air Education and Training Command’s 80th anniversary. (The U.S. Air Force was established September 18, 1947.)
Significant Fact #3:
AETC’s mission is to recruit, train and educate exceptional Airmen to deliver 21st Century Airpower.
Significant Fact #4:
AETC’s vision as the first command is to develop Airmen of character – the foundation of a lethal force.
Significant Fact #5:
More than 25 million students have graduated from AETC training and education programs over the years. Sponsor: Kelly Wade Jewelers Representing the Order of the Alamo’s 2021 Court of Parisian Splendour are Her Royal Highness Elizabeth Grace Huey and Princess Hannah Elizabeth Bakke.
Each meticulously designed, detail-oriented dress represents a part of the rich history and culture of Paris. The themes of the court differ from year to year, and these magnificent gowns made by several local artisans take years to design and create.
The Order of the Alamo was founded in 1909 and is one of Fiesta’s oldest organizations. Each year, the Order of the Alamo crowns a Queen and Princess to preside over the royal court. Excluding the World War I & II years, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the Order of the Alamo has crowned a Queen every year since its founding in 1909.
No. 9 U.S. Army North
Sponsor: GFS Industries Fort Sam Houston is home to U.S. Army North and U.S. Army South, the two Army commands responsible for the land defense of the entire western hemisphere as well as for leading the Department of Defense’s support in national emergencies throughout the region.
Army units on Fort Sam include Installation Management Command, the headquarters responsible for the day-to-day operations of U.S. Army installations worldwide, and Mission and Installation Contracting Command, the headquarters responsible for the acquisition of goods and services vital to the soldier’s mission and well-being around the world.
Another very important component is Brooke Army Medical Center, the Army’s only Level 1 Trauma Center, and U.S. Army Medical Command, the headquarters responsible for providing health services support and force health protection to our soldiers and their families worldwide.
The U.S. Army Medical Center of Excellence on Fort Sam Houston trains nearly 30,000 soldiers in more than 360 medical training and education programs here every year. Trainees include everyone from combat medics, doctors, surgeons, nurses, veterinarians, dentists and physician assistants to aeromedical evacuation pilots, food inspectors, medical technicians, and hospital administrators.
Band: 323d Army Rock Band “35 to Nowhere”
Participants: LTG John Evans, Commanding General of U.S. Army North, and his spouse, Carolyn, along with Command Sergeant Major Phil Barretto and his spouse, Marlene
No. 10 U.S. Sea Services
Sponsor: Mauzé Construction The mission of the U.S. Navy is to maintain, train and equip combat-ready Naval forces capable of winning wars, deterring aggression, and maintaining freedom of the seas.
The mission of the United States Coast Guard is to ensure our Nation’s maritime safety, security and stewardship.
Band: TBD
No. 11 Purple Up! For Military Kids
Sponsor: Merrill – A Bank of America Company Purple Up USA! is an organization helping and celebrating military children throughout the world. In fact, the month of April is designated as the Month of the Military Child.
Held on April 15th of each year, “Purple Up! For Military Kids” is a day for Department of Defense Education Activity communities to wear purple to show support and thank military children for their strength and sacrifices.
US NAVY: Fleet Master Chief (Ret.) April D. Beldo-Lilley. Beldo-Lilley last served as Fleet Master Chief for Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education. After 33 years of service she retired and now works with USAA as Director of Executive Operation Planning.
AIR FORCE: Command Chief Master Sergeant (Ret.) Paul H. Weseloh. Currently serving as Chief of Safety for the Sixteenth Air Force (Air Forces Cyber) at Joint Base San Antonio - Lackland. While active, Mr. Weseloh deployed to Operations Desert Shield, Northern Watch and Enduring Freedom.
ARMY: Command Sergeant Major Luis A. Gonzalez. Served combat tours for Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Operation Joint Guardian in Kosovo, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Unified Response in Haiti.
MARINES: [Possibly not participating]
COAST GUARD: Master Chief Aviation Electronics Technician Rick Trent. Served in the Coast Guard for more than 35 years. Awarded the Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal and 2 Coast Guard Meritorious Service Medals.
No. 13 Fiesta Children
Sponsor: Mays Family Foundation Celebrating the younger side of Fiesta, this float contains children from across the city ready to celebrate and be a part of the parade along the historic banks of the San Antonio Riverwalk.
Riding as special guests, are Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar and the HEB mascot, Buddy.
No. 14 Bexar County Judge & County Commissioners
Sponsor: Killen, Griffin & Farrimond, PLLC County Judge: Nelson Wolff
Commissioners:
Precinct 1: Rebeca Clay-Flores Precinct 2: Justin Rodriguez Precinct 3: Marialyn Barnard Precinct 4: Tommy Calvert (not riding)
No. 15 Alamo Trust
Sponsor: Luther King Capital Management Located in the heart of downtown San Antonio, the Alamo stands as a shrine to Texas liberty. Visitors pay homage to the heroes of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, a pivotal moment in Texas history. The Alamo stands as a 300 year-old defining landmark in the story of Texas independence and is visited by more than 1.6 million visitors every year.
Visiting the Alamo involves witnessing living history, experiencing authentic artifacts, and admiration of an iconic landmark that shaped the country. The Alamo offers daily activities such as entrance to the historic Alamo Church, school visits, a living history encampment and demonstrations, educational films, and special exhibits, all free of charge thanks to the generosity of donors.
Participants: Hope Andrade, Tim Hicks, Thomas Ledesma, Kate Rogers, Pam Rosser, Kirk Scott, Vince Villalpando, Zach Woolston
No. 17 San Antonio Livestock Exposition
Theme: Texas Rodeo
Sponsor: San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo has grown to be one of the largest, most prestigious single events in the city of San Antonio, with approximately 1.5 million visitors entering the fairgrounds each year. The success of the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is attributed to over 6,000 volunteers who give countless hours to the organization.
Since it began, this organization has raised more than $232 million with community, donor, sponsor and volunteer support. These endeavors include scholarships, grants, endowments, junior livestock auctions, calf scramble programs and show premiums. This exciting and fun event impacts more than 19,000 youth in Texas annually.
Leadership: Cody Davenport - Executive Director and CEO, Chris Derby - Chief Marketing Officer
No. 18 Rey Feo Scholarship Program
Sponsor: Ruple Properties This year’s Rey Feo is Augustine “Augie” Cortez, Jr.
The story of Rey Feo dates back to Spanish medieval times, during which the King of Spain distanced himself from his subjects choosing to fill his court with only the beautiful, rich and aristocratic. The ordinary citizen was never invited to the palace and rarely saw the monarch except when he rode to the countryside to hunt. The common people resented the king for this, and one day a rebellious crowd gathered in the plaza and proclaimed one of their own as “The Ugly King” or “The People’s King.” This was the beginning of what has now become our very own El Rey Feo right here in San Antonio.
The Rey Feo program, a non-profit charitable organization, has raised more than $7 million for scholarships presented to more than 3,000 students with 100 students presently receiving $2,000 for books and tuition. Let’s give a big round of applause for El Rey Feo!
No. 19 San Antonio Zulu Association
Theme: Texas Horseback Riding
Sponsor: Corie Properties Group The San Antonio Zulu Association began in 1976 as a social, civil, non-projt and benevolent organization. Originally,hosting family-style picnics to celebrate “Juneteenth,” the San Antonio Zulu Association joined the San Antonio Fiesta Commision in 1982 and began what would become “A Taste of New Orleans” currently held at the Sunken Gardens Theater in Brackenridge Park.
Band: Billy Ray Sheppard and the Main Event Band
Participants: President Walter Serna, President-Elect Col (Ret) Jon Fristoe, Senior Vice President John Meyer, Vice President Roger O Flores, Vice President Richard Sparr, Secretary Ferne Burney, Treasurer David Christian
No. 16 City of San Antonio Mayor and City Council
Sponsor: Kruger Carson PLLC San Antonio is a global city with a dynamic economy and workforce, a deep cultural heritage and diverse communities that are resilient and welcoming. It is one of the strongest fiscally managed cities in the country, nurturing entrepreneurship, encouraging investment and funding infrastructure. San Antonio is the seventh-largest in the US and offers a vibrant business climate and growth opportunities in bioscience, financial services, aerospace, cybersecurity, energy, transportation, manufacturing and healthcare. Participants: Mayor Ron Nirenberg, Mario Bravo - Councilman, District 1, Jalen McKee-Rodriguez - Councilman, District 2, Phyllis Viagran, Councilwoman, District 3, Dr. Adriana Rocha Garcia, Councilwoman, District 4, Teri Castillo - Councilwoman, District 5, Melissa Cabello Havrdra - Councilman, District 6, Ana E. Sandoval - Councilwoman, District 7, Manny Pelaez - Councilman, District 8, John Courage - Councilman, District 9, Clayton Perry - Councilman, District 10
No. 20 Fiesta San Antonio Commission Royalty
Sponsor: Buchek Landscaping and Irrigation These young women represent five of the seven Official Fiesta Queens. In keeping with the charitable nature of Fiesta, Miss Fiesta San Antonio is selected based upon her community service project proposal; The Fiesta Teenage Queen represents The Woman’s Club of San Antonio; The Queen of Soul represents the African-American community during Fiesta; The Charro Queen represents Mexican heritage and the culture of the traditional Mexican charreada; And Miss San Antonio represents the Miss San Antonio Scholarship Organization.
Participants: Calista Burns, 2020-2022 Miss Fiesta San Antonio, Avery Walker, 2022 Fiesta Teenage Queen, Rebekah Wynn, 2020-2021 Queen of Soul, Alexa Primera, 2020-2022 Charro Queen, Elaina McCoulskey, 2022 Miss San Antonio, Mary Wieser, Miss Fiesta San Antonio Chaperone
No. 21 Battle of Flowers Association
Theme: Texas Amusement Parks
Sponsor: Howell Crane/Southern Warehousing & Distribution The Battle of Flowers Association started it all in 1891. As the founding event of Fiesta, it attracts more than 550,000 spectators from around the world. It is the only parade in the United States produced by all women volunteers from across the city. The parade started as a patriotic celebration to honor the heroes of the Alamo, Goliad and the Battle of San Jacinto. Their mission is to teach the history of our state and keep the patriotic traditions of Texas and San Antonio alive.
There are 400 active members and many honorary members who volunteer their time to give back to the city and community.
Participants: Kelly Kennedy, President, Faye Bracey, VP of Finance, Lisa Wolff, VP Fundraising, Melissa Branch, VP Parade, Amy White, VP Oratorical, Cameron Armstrong, VP Band Festival
No. 22 San Antonio Fiesta Commission Executive Committee
Sponsor: Steves & Sons The Fiesta® San Antonio Commission Inc. is a nonprofit, volunteer, selfsupporting organization that plans, promotes, coordinates, and preserves Fiesta San Antonio through support of its Participating Member Organizations in presenting a safe, educational, annual celebration of the diverse heritage, culture and spirit of San Antonio for its residents and visitors.The Fiesta® San Antonio Commission Inc. is a nonprofit, volunteer, self-supporting organization that plans, promotes, coordinates, and preserves Fiesta San Antonio through support of its Participating Member Organizations in presenting a safe, educational, annual celebration of the diverse heritage, culture and spirit of San Antonio for its residents and visitors.
Band: DJ Hot Mixx Entertainment
Leadership: Steve Rosenauer, Executive Director
No. 23 Girls Inc. Theme: Texas Baseball
Sponsor: Belles & Beaux Girls Inc. of San Antonio inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Girls Inc. of San Antonio helps girls ages 6 to 18 overcome barriers that prohibit them from achieving their personal, educational, and career goals.
Girls Inc. of San Antonio puts mission into practice by providing year-round, holistic, compensatory, and intentional programming; focusing on STEM, healthy relationships, sound body image, and college and career readiness.
Programs occur after school, on weekends, and during school breaks. Programming takes place in a girls-only environment that is physically, socially and emotionally safe. The primary purpose of all programs is to help girls explore and celebrate their strengths, their voices, who they are today, and who they will become.
No. 24 San Antonio German Club
Sponsor: Texas Wilson The San Antonio German Club was formed in 1880 by a group of single young men. First known as the Ascension Club, the name was changed in 1890 to the San Antonio German Club following the popularity of a ballroom dance of the era called “the German.” The San Antonio German Club presents its debutantes during San Antonio’s Social Season, with noted exceptions during war times.
Participants: 2020 and 2021 German Club Debutants Sponsor: Trinity Real Estate Finance Celebrating 65 years, the San Antonio Council on Alcohol and Drug Awareness (SACADA) serves Bexar and surrounding counties in prevention, intervention, and recovery support services. Their vision is a safe and thriving community. Seventy-five percent of their work is in youth prevention, teaching about the consequences of substance abuse. They also offer prevention presentations and alternative activities. All of these services are at no charge.
SACADA’s youth prevention programs are shown to improve social and emotional learning skills, behavior at school and home, better grades and school attendance. The goal is to empower youth to make healthy choices to live drugfree and accomplish their dreams.
Twenty-five percent of SACADA’s work is in intervention and recovery support services serving Bexar and surrounding counties, which includes recovery coaches, transitional living homes, and various other agencies across the region to support and enhance recovery-focused community efforts.
Participants: Abigail Garza Moore, Dr. Jeanie Murphy, Sara Dysart, Ramon Reyes, M.D., Ryan Holt, Sarah Fulton, Joseph Ibarra, Charlotte Zayas, Leroy Garcia
No. 26 Mission Kayak and Mission Adventure Tours
Theme: Paddle Texas
Sponsor: Ricos Products Mission Kayak was founded in 2013 as a vision to make San Antonio a better place for outdoor recreational activity, and to enhance the status of the San Antonio Missions. What started as just a few kayaks, and a borrowed old minivan, grew into a full-fledged operation, complete with a 15 passenger van.
Mission Kayak is so popular that it was featured in magazines such as Texas Highways, Southern Living, and Texas Monthly. The kayaks were also used on ABC’s show “The Bachelorette.”
Participants: Mission Adventure Tours owner Sarah Neil
No. 27 Visit San Antonio – River Walk
Theme: Texas Rivers
Sponsor: American Bank Riding on the Visit San Antonio – River Walk float are the 2022 River Walk Royalty. Each year the royalty raises money to support all the free programming on the River Walk, to grant scholarships and to serve as ambassadors to help promote, preserve and protect our beautiful River Walk.
Leadership: Maggie Thompson, Director of River Walk Operations
No. 28 Southwest Research Institute
Theme: Texas Space
Sponsor: Embrey Southwest Research Institute, a San Antonio based non-profit, is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year and continues to solve some of humankind’s most challenging technical problems from Deep Sea to Deep Space™, and practically everywhere in between.
Band: Space Jam
Participants: Adam Hamilton - President and CEO, Leslie Hamilton, Sherri Baetz, Mary Ramoz, Michelle Valero
No. 29 The University of Texas at San Antonio
Theme: Texas Star Gazing
Sponsor: Parkhurst NuVision UUTSA was founded on the hopes and dreams of generations of San Antonians desiring a college education. Today, graduates of UTSA enter the workforce ready for the jobs of the future. As a Hispanic thriving institution, UTSA enrolls more than 32,000 students; 53% Hispanic.
UTSA’s world-class faculty includes prestigious researchers from Harvard, Yale, Cornell, Duke, Stanford and MIT, and many other leading universities. These professors are committed to preparing students for the jobs of the future.
By 2028, UTSA expects to enroll 45,000 students and earn designation as a class one, premier research university. UTSA and San Antonio are working together to prepare our community for the jobs of the future and create economic prosperity.
No. 30 Will Smith Zoo School
Theme: Texas Zoos
Sponsor: Texas Capital Bank Will Smith Zoo School, founded in 2004 and operated by the San Antonio Zoological Society, is the largest nature-based preschool in the United States. This fully licensed preschool uses nature as the integrating thread tying together the school’s philosophy. The school is named in honor of Will Naylor Smith, who opened his heart to the world and loved animals and the outdoors.
Leadership: Rachel Buck, Director
No. 31 Methodist Healthcare
Theme: Texas Cattle Brands
Sponsor: Methodist Healthcare System Methodist Healthcare has evolved to meet the growing needs of the greater San Antonio community, and their commitment since opening our first hospital in 1963 has never wavered: to continuously improve the health and wellness of our community by “Serving Humanity to Honor God.”
Methodist Healthcare is a 50-50 co-ownership between Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc., South Texas’ largest non-public funding source of community health care for uninsured patients; and HCA Healthcare, the nation’s leading provider of healthcare services. This creates a unique partnership that ensures Methodist Healthcare continues to benefit the community by providing quality care to all and charitable care when needed. The health care system is the largest in South Texas with 8 hospitals and 11,000 employees. It is nationally recognized for many of its services including solid organ and bone marrow transplant programs, cardiac care and robotic surgery.
Leadership: Allen Harrison, President and CEO Methodist Healthcare reflective of the diverse and heritage-rich community it serves. A&M-SA today is a comprehensive four-year university offering affordable, high-quality education. Its faculty & staff prepare & empower students through innovative & challenging academic & co-curricular programs that contribute to enrich the economic & social development of the community & region.
Band: DJ TonyC
Participants: Mr. A&M San Antonio - Fayaz Lal, Ms. A&M San Antonio - Angela Diaz, Alyssa Bocanegra, Analise Velasco, Antonio Villarreal, Cera Leos, Jacob Goldstein, Lori Day
Theme: Texas Birding
Sponsor: The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio – CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System For more than 50 years, The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio has a reputation as a world-class children’s hospital annually providing inpatient care to 5,000 children, 80,000 emergency department visits and 73,000 outpatient visits. This hospital serves as an important hub to a network of pediatric services throughout the community.
No. 36 The Children of the Republic of Texas
Theme: Texas Canyons
Sponsor: JBR Holdings Chartered on May 11, 1934, at the Alamo, the Children of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas – Alamo Mission Chapter encourages the study of Texas history and the preservation of early records of Texas, among other things. These children are direct descendants of founding settlers of the Republic of Texas, and of patriots who fought for Texas Independence in 1836.
Their motto is “Not for self, but for Texas.” They work to preserve documents and relics, and the sites made sacred when Texas fought for its independence. They promote all Texas honor days and the display of the Texas flag. This organization cherishes and preserves the memory of “Texas, one and individual” as stated by the mothers and fathers of the Texas revolution.
Band: Lauren McDaniel
No. 32 San Antonio Humane Society
Theme: Texas Aquariums
Sponsor: San Antonio Brake and Clutch The San Antonio Humane Society is a non-profit, no-kill organization that has been operating in Bexar County since 1952. Their mission is to improve the lives of dogs and cats by providing shelter, care, adoption, rescue, spay/neuter programs, and community education.
Representing them on the “Texas Aquariums” float are members of the El Rey Fido 2022 Royal Court. These pups earned their royal status by raising funds that support countless adoptable dogs and cats each year.
No. 33 Goodwill of San Antonio
Theme: Texas Ranching
Sponsor: JP Morgan Since Goodwill San Antonio’s first day of service in 1945, they have championed the fight against poverty to create opportunity for adults and youth through education and employment. Their founding purpose is centered on fighting poverty and creating opportunity which helps change lives through the power of work.
Leadership: Carlos J. Contreras III, President and CEO
No. 34 Texas A&M University - San Antonioe
Theme: Hunt Texas
Participants: Annie Altmeyer, Gray Altmeyer, Bennett Childs, Creede Childs, Ashley McCollough, Nathan McCollough, Harper Menn, Eden Retzloff, Izabel Retzloff
No. 37 Alamo Colleges District
Theme: Texas Backyard BBQ
Sponsor: Alamo Colleges District As the largest provider of higher education in the region, Alamo Colleges includes a family of five colleges including Northeast Lakeview College, Northwest Vista College, Palo Alto College, St. Philip’s College and San Antonio College. From its origin as a district in 1945 through decades of change and expansion, Alamo Colleges have made higher education accessible and affordable for all.
Today, the five colleges fulfill this promise with a vast array of courses that lead to an associate degree or certification. Credits from the district’s colleges transfer to four-year universities for those pursuing advanced degrees. In 2018, the district became the only community college system ever to win the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, recognizing the highest level of excellence.
No. 38 San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Sponsor: Bank of San Antonio, Texas Partners Bank The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is the oldest Hispanic Chamber in the country with a five-star accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Their mission is to be San Antonio’s leading resource, advocate, and access for Hispanic businesses and Hispanics in business.
Sponsor: Regions Bank Supporting our community since 1903 with services in 14 counties throughout South Texas, Family Service has grown to meet the changing needs of our community. Their wraparound services impact every stage of life ranging from prenatal care to older, adult in-home care. Our goal is to empower individuals and families to transform their lives and strengthen their communities.
Band: DJ Louis Cardenas
Participants: Dominic ramirez, Adrian Castaneda, Nick Contreras, Miguel Serna, Andrew Morones, Love Del Rio, Roland Ramirez, Hilario Moreno, Mary Garr Sponsor: Zachry Group UT Health San Antonio, with missions of education, research and patient care, has Schools of Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Graduate Biomedical Sciences and Health Professions. It’s the primary driver of our community’s $42.4 billion biomedical industry and its Graduate School is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
Band: Just 4 Fun
Participants: Dr. David Weiss – Dean of the Graduate School of BioMedical Sciences, Rosemary Weiss, Dr. Jessica Nute, Dr. Keith Krolick, Dr. Michael Burton, Dr. Rene Yew, Dr. Jeoffrey Clarke, Dr. Addanki Prata Kumar, Dr. Rita Ghosh and others
No. 40 San Antonio Gardenia Club
Theme: Texas Flowers
Sponsor: Howard Energy Partners Celebrating the beauty of Texas flowers, the San Antonio Gardenia Club has been a participant in this parade since its inaugural year in 1960. This club promotes further interest in the fine arts and cultivates friendships within its membership. Additionally, the Gardenia Club awards scholarships to local fine art students to help further their education and talent.
No. 41 Fiesta Flambeau Parade Association
Theme: Friday Night Lights
Sponsor: Gray Street Acquisitions – Kevin Covey and Chris Grossman The Fiesta Flambeau Parade is the largest night parade in the United States and is honored to be named the best parade in both Texas and the world in its budget category by the Texas Festivals and Events Association, and the International Festivals and Events Association. The charitable arm of the Fiesta Flambeau is represented by their mascot “Torchy,” who visits local schools to promote literacy and education.
Music: DJ Alex
Participants: Robert Cuellar President, Richard Flores – Torchy (Mascot), Jeanette Flores, Teresa Carmona, Mari Sandoval-Ayala, Roxanne Castillo, Alice Perez, Cindi Segura – DJ Blingleader
No. 42 Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas
Theme: Texas Beaches
Sponsor: Porter Loring Mortuaries Now marking its 25th year of Service, the Center’s vision is that every grieving child in South Texas would have access to competent, compassionate care when faced with the death of a loved one. Annually the San Antonio site provides direct service for over 1,600 individuals, 60% of which are children and youth ages three to 24.
Participants: Weston Cox, Kayla Davis, Keaton Dear, Jo Ann Flores, Sharol Garcia, Andee Grether, Shannon Holliday, Ashley Jesse, Kevin Menchaca
No. 43 First Tee – Greater San Antonio
Theme: Texas Golf
Sponsor: VIP Staffing First Tee - Greater San Antonio enables children to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new and exciting challenges through the game of golf. By integrating the game of golf with life skills curriculum, they create learning experiences to foster inner strength, self-confidence and resilience.
No. 44 University of the Incarnate Word
Theme: Texas Caves
Sponsor: JLL The University of the Incarnate Word celebrates San Antonio’s vibrant culture inside and outside of the classroom. UIW is proud to be a Hispanic-serving institution, ranking No. 1 in the nation among faith-based universities graduating Hispanic students with bachelor’s degrees. On the UIW float you will find student leaders.
No. 46 Conservation Society of San Antonio
Theme: Texas Energy
Sponsor: Mission Restaurant Supply The Conservation Society of San Antonio is one of the country’s oldest preservation organizations, dedicated to protecting our city’s historic character since 1924. Started by thirteen preservation-minded women, this group is one of the first community preservation groups in the United States. The Conservation Society is responsible for saving many of the historic attractions that make San Antonio the top tourist destination in Texas.
Their current project is advocating for the preservation and repurposing of the Woolworth, Crockett & Palace buildings into the Alamo Plaza plan. “A Night in Old San Antonio,” the society’s primary fundraising event, celebrates and supports our diverse cultural legacy.
Sponsor: Mission Restaurant Supply
Participants: Kathy Rhoads, Kathy Krnavek, Patricia Seidenberger, Margie Arnold, Leticia Diaz, Ronald Gonzales
No. 47 Beethoven Maennerchor
Theme: Texas Auto Racing
Sponsor: Gunn Automotive Group Founded in 1867, the Beethoven Maennerchor is located in the King William District. It is the oldest singing society west of the Mississippi River. The “Beethoven Dance Band ‘’ is always a popular event in the outdoor Biergarten at the Beethoven Maennerchor Halle und Garten. The band performs during Fiesta, Oktoberfest, monthly garden concerts and other special events. Their repertoire includes classic German beer hall tunes and other pop music.
Band: Beethoven Dance Band
No. 48 Trinity University
Theme: Texas Camping
Sponsor: Trinity University Alumni Group Trinity University, one of the nation’s premier liberal arts and sciences universities, is known for its challenging and supportive academic environment. With a 50-year reputation of excellence, Trinity’s Health Care Administration program has produced over 1,800 leaders who can be found working in hospital systems across the country.
Participants: Alumni, students, staff and LeeRoy, the Trinity Mascot
No. 49 National Pan-Hellenic Sororities
Theme: Texas Farmers Market
Sponsor: La-Z-Boy The sororities which are a part of the “Divine Nine,” also known as the National Pan Hellenic Council, were founded more than 100 years ago and include Sigma Gamma Rho, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, and Zeta Phi Beta Sororities These historically African American collegiate-based organizations focus on sisterhood, scholarship and community service. Their membership numbers collectively are more than 800,000 women internationally.
Representing for Sigma Gamma Rho sorority is Trinity Greaves, the representative for Zeta Ph Beta Sorority is Journyia Dixon-Representative for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Is Autumn Horn and representative for Delta Sigma Theta sorority is Ashley Thompson. These young ladies all attend the University of Texas At San Antonio.
Band: The Tailpipes
No. 50 San Antonio Chamber of Commerce
Theme: Fiesta
Sponsor: Papa Johns The San Antonio Chamber of Commerce is honored to have more than 1,650 members and has been driving business success in San Antonio for more than 127 years. With numerous historical sites including the Alamo, the Riverwalk and multiple other attractions, San Antonio is a world-wide destination for tourists. This institution celebrates both local businesses and our diverse cultural heritage.
Participants: Richard Perez, President and CEO, Phil Green, Chair of the Board and President & CEO of Frost Bank
No. 51 Sunshine Cottage School for Deaf Children
Theme: Texas Wildlife
Sponsor: Circle Bar Foundation Sunshine Cottage School for Deaf Children is an auditory-oral school that teaches children, as young as two weeks old, with hearing loss to listen and speak. Founders Dela and John White had a dream that their young daughter who was born profoundly deaf, and other children like her, would be able to learn to listen, talk and be successful in the hearing world. In 1947 Sunshine Cottage, envisioned and promoted by Mr. and Mrs. White and supported by the San Antonio community, opened with its first class of seven students.
Today, Sunshine Cottage is one of the most comprehensive oral education centers for children who are deaf or hard of hearing in the country and is recognized internationally as a premier center for listening and spoken language. Educational curriculum and language evaluation tools designed and produced by Sunshine Cottage are used in each of the 50 states in the US and in Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Sunshine Cottage is celebrating its 75th Anniversary this year! They thank the community and donors for supporting their mission that has allowed them to help thousands of children and families throughout the year.
Participants: Mary Bordelon, Miriam Elizondo, Janeth Gaddy, Raye Ann Short, Tammy Monts, Laura Rodriguez, Mark E. Eads, Shawna Eads, Fred Hayes
No. 52 Snack Pac for Kids Theme: Texas Farm and Ranch
Sponsor: Guido Materials Snack Pac for Kids knows hungry children can’t learn. This organization addresses the relationship between hunger and learning by providing weekend food supplements to feed chronically hungry children. By partnering with teachers, they treat every child with dignity and respect while consistently providing the nutritional food children need to be successful learners.
No. 53 Project Mend Theme: Texas Wetlands
Sponsor: Hoffman Reporting & Video Service Project MEND believes mobility and independence are basic human rights. They provide DONATED medical equipment from YOU, professionally refurbish, sanitize and distribute it to individuals who cannot afford the items they need or are faced with gaps in their insurance coverage.
Project MEND, has been improving lives by providing home medical equipment and assistive technology for persons with disabilities and illnesses in South Texas for 29 years. Sponsor: DuWest Realty – Evan Ketabchi Catholic Charities provides for the needs of our community through selfless service with the spirit of love. Committed to empowering individuals and families, with the ultimate goal of fostering independence, they provide more than 40 bilingual and culturally sensitive programs in 19 counties throughout the Archdiocese of San Antonio.
Charities include:
• St PJ’s Children’s Home, originally an orphanage founded in 1891 - now an emergency shelter for children in crisis • Seton Home - a 24 hour shelter for pregnant and parenting teen mothers and their babies
No. 55 SJRC - St. Jude’s Ranch for Children
Theme: Texas Oil Field
Sponsor: ATKG SJRC Texas, formerly known as St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, offers healing and hope to children and families affected by abuse, abandonment and neglect. They care for children within the foster care system and help them heal from trauma they may have experienced, providing a path to a healthy, happy childhood.
Participants: Cynthia Lopez, Lauren Sides, Laci Bird, Tara Roussett, Lauren Shepherd, Kyana Beres, Jaci Gonzales, Kristen McClaughlin, Nevetta King, Tanner Carlson
No. 56 OPERA San Antonio
Theme: Texas Wine
Sponsor: Labatt Food Service OPERA San Antonio provides access to performances of uncompromising quality as well as enriching our community through educational outreach and social engagement. OPERA San Antonio’s mission is to preserve and share opera as an art form that is relevant, inspirational and accessible to residents and visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
Band: OPERA San Antonio
Participants: Madeline Elizondo, E. Loren Meeker, Veronica S. Lopez, Thomas Soto, Alexandra Sanchez, Rick Novak, Lisa Owens, Rob Saldana
