The Kailua-Kona Christmas Parade Committee has announced the award winners for the 31st annual Christmas Parade. There were 80 entries, with more than 2,200 individuals in the parade, and an estimated 20,000-plus spectators lined the streets to watch, the largest crowd ever to attend this festive community event. Winners may pick up their award certificates at the Kona mayor’s office at the West Hawaii Civic Center, beginning Dec. 21. Info: Barbara Kossow, 323-4448.
Nonprofit/community entries
Float: first (tie), Halau Kalaakeakauikawekiu and Kahakai Elementary School; second, Kona Faith Center; third: The Food Basket.
Marching: first, Kealakehe High Polynesian Dance Class; second, St. Michael’s Church; third (tie), West Hawaii County Band and Kona Elks Lodge.
Keiki: first, Kona Aerials Gymnastics; second (tie), Hawaii Montessori Schools and Makua Lani Christian Academy; third (tie), Hawaii Golden Twirlers and Innovations Public Charter School.
Commercial entries
Best in Christmas Spirit: first, Kealakekua Ranch Center/ChoiceMART; second, Randal’s Dance Fitness; third, The Home Depot.
Best in Entertainment: first, KBXtreme; second, Fearless Towing; third, New West Broadcasting.
Best School Entry: first, Makua Lani Christian Academy; second, Hawaii Montessori Schools; third, Kealakehe Elementary School Junior Police Officers.
Best in Song: first, Pacific Islander Children and Adult Brass Band; second, Kona Faith Center; third, Kahikolu Congregational Church.
Best in Lights: first, The Food Basket; second, Hawaii Electric Light Co.; third, Fearless Towing.
Best 4-Legged Entry: Therapeutic Horsemanship.
Crowd Pleaser: Hawaii Electric Light Co.
Judges’ Special Award: Big Island Marshallese Community.
