120 boats celebrate the 4th with parade

BY Kelly Lopez

One of the first festivities that took place on Independence Day in Canyon Lake was an impressive patriotic boat parade which began at the end of the East Bay and continued to the Main Lake. Over 120 decorated boats (containing approximately 600 people) could be seen going across the lake in a slow and respectful manner.

Photo provided by Art Femister.

“The purpose of the event was to celebrate our nation’s independence and the collective freedoms we all enjoy,” Art Femister, the event media coordinator, said. “We also wanted to show our appreciation for all the members of law enforcement across the nation as they face challenging times along with all the awesome first responders and front line workers during the COVID-19 pandemic for being there to support us while putting their own safety at risk. And finally we wanted to show our support for President Trump as we believe he embodies these same principles as well.”

While the parade was in part meant to show support for President Trump, “This was not some serious political rally, but a fun way to enjoy this special day, each other and our community,” Art said. “Everyone was laughing, playing their music, some dancing on their boats and just having a great day in a great community on the water. Very enjoyable for all!!”

Photo provided by Art Femister.

The turnout for the event was much bigger than anticipated, Art said, but it remained well-controlled. The event organizers’ priority was to not interrupt the flow of boating traffic on the lake and this was accomplished as everyone stayed on the correct side of the buoys and followed behind each other safely and respectfully.

The event was organized by Grand Marshall and Event Organizer Jeremy Kite. Jeremy was aided by his Event Media Production Team, Art Femister and Jon Mattox, who provided the event’s web media. As boats passed by Art’s home on the East Bay, he collected footage while Jon videotaped with a drone. They edited together a final video of the event which can be accessed at http://www.trump2020clboatparade.com/.