Grand Marshal Robin Teague

MVHA Fourth of July Parade and Picnic

7/4/2010 - The Monte Vista Historical Association 2010 Fourth of July Parade and Picnic were a huge success thanks to the efforts of Event Charman Jerilyn Blanchard and MVHA volunteers. Over 300 residents of the Monte Vista Historical District met at the corner of Lynwood and Howard on July 4th. The weather threatened rain, however, the occasional sprinkle did little to dampen the spirits of parade- and picnic-goers.

The procession was led by Taylor and Dillon McManus carrying the Monte Vista Historical Association banner, a drum and fife duo from UTSA's School of Music, and Justin Blanchard bearing the U.S. flag. Grand Marshall Robin Teague rode in style in Dan Markson's 1960 Cadillac. Robin was honored by MVHA for his tireless and selfless efforts in walking through Monte Vista and picking up litter daily. He is a practicing attorney and is currently the President of the San Antonio Bar Association.

"Grand Fido" Einstein from Wash Shake Wag rounded out the dignitaries in the parade. This year's parade revived a Monte Vista tradition of awards for Best Non-Motorized Vehicle, Best Patriotic Dressed Adult and Child, and Best Dressed Pet. As shown in the photos below, there was much competition for the coveted award ribbons.

Upon arrival of the parade at the Landa Library Grounds, parade and picnic attendees were treated to a short patriotic ceremony with Judge Barbara Nellermoe leading everyone in an a capella rendition of The Star Spangled Banner. Following a prayer by Chaplain Major General Lorraine Potter, USAF Ret., MVHA President Jeff Blanchard thanked all of the volunteers and attendees for making it such a special event.

Monte Vista Historical Association supplied the food and activities with generous donations from HEB on Olmos Drive, Bill Miller Bar B Q, Wash Shake Wag, Vivre Pilates, and individual sponsors. The menu consisted of hot dogs, chips, cake, and ice cream. Milton Beck's homemade blueberry pie won First Place in the "Legendary Best Pie Contest." Throughout the picnic, people commented to MVHA board members that it was one of the nicest events ever held by the organization and reminiscent of how the parade and picnic used to be.

Click here to view some of the pictures taken at the MVHA Fourth of July Parade and Picnic. New pictures have been added. If you have some special photos from the event, e-mail them to MVHA.