2nd Annual Parade of Lights
On February 3, 2024, the Tri-City Empowerment Council (TCEC) proudly hosted the Second Annual Parade of Lights and Outreach Celebration! As we gathered, our focus remained on fostering unity within the community with God being at the center of it all.
As the sun set, excitement built as all the lights and glowing accessories we wore were activated and switched on, and the Second Annual Parade of Lights officially began. With 32 captivating floats and vehicles, the parade sparkled with creativity. From city officials to local churches, businesses, and spirited representatives like the Miss Cuero Court and Trotters we illuminated the streets along the parade route from Hutcheson St/W Morgan St to the Cuero Livestock Commission.
Following the parade, the festivities continued as local businesses and churches warmly welcomed the community to the Outreach Celebration at Daule Park with various booths. Attendees enjoyed complimentary food and refreshments, including nachos, chili, hotdogs, sweets, hot chocolate, and other goodies and giveaways.
As the parade and following celebration drew to a close, the joy and sense of community lingered in the air. Witnessing the community come together to enjoy the parade and festivities was heartwarming. We at TCEC were thrilled to see all the smiles and laughter shared among friends and neighbors.
We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this remarkable event. To our city officials, local churches, volunteers, and generous local businesses, your support helped make this celebration truly special. To all the community members who attended, thank you for sharing the joy and spirit of the Parade of Lights and Outreach Celebration.
We are immensely grateful for your participation and look forward to many more celebrations that bring us closer together as a community.
Specifically, we would like to express our appreciation to the following for their invaluable contributions:
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First and foremost, we thank God for guiding us on this journey. We asked him to use us to make the parade what He intended it to be.
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Thank you
The Mayor of Cuero, Mrs. Sara Post Meyer for supporting and participating in the parade. We thank you for your continuing support.
The Cuero City Manager, City Council Members, and all the City Employees that pitched in and did an awesome job making the parade run smoothly. Thank you for helping block the roads and providing extra lightning.
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Thank you
Kenneth Schumacher (Energy Waste) for providing the portable potties and hand washing stations.
Cuero H.E.B. for donating $100 toward the Outreach Celebration.
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Thank you
Ryan Varela for the wonderful job you did as the Parade Announcer. We appreciated your excitement while announcing the parade participants. Thank you also for providing the trailers, speakers, lights, and music at the grandstand areas.
David Danish for making sure the Daule Park was clean and for delivering and setting up the extra picnic table and trees for added light to the park.
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Cuero Police Department
VFW Flag Carrier - Mr. Schley
Mayor Sara Meyer & Cuero City Council
Cuero Fire Department
Miss Cuero Court (Best Overall - Trophy)
Grand Marshal - Paul Harper of the Cuero Education Foundation
Daule Alumni - Ms. Johnnie V. Green & Mrs. Josephine Thomas
Cuero High School Trotters
Freedom Life Church
Lee’s Custom Balloons & More (Most Creative - Trophy)
UNITED
St. Thomas Baptist Church
Mt. Bethel Baptist Church
Josie Carmona Barber & Stylist
Lopez Tree Service
Joseph Villarreal
Street Sweeper Car & Truck Club (Most Original - Trophy)
No Limit Ridaz South Texas Car & Truck Club
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Thank you to the following booth participants for all of the giveaways, delicious food and snacks:
DJ Mathis for providing the speakers and music.
Quinn Chapel IME
Freedom Life Church
Macedonia Baptist Church
St. Thomas Baptist Church
Mt. Bethel Baptist Church
G.A.M.E.
Bush’s Chicken
H.E.B.
Breath of Life Church
Alzcare
As we reflect on the memories created and the bonds strengthened, our anticipation for next year's event grows. We're already envisioning the streets ablaze with lights and the spirit of unity shining brightly once again. Join us in marking your calendars for the first Saturday in February 2025 for the Third Annual Parade of Lights and Outreach Celebration.
Together, let's keep our lights shining and our community unified!