Kaneohe’s Parade Ready To March For 51st Time On Dec. 7

Kaneohe’s 2013 Christmas march will “Honor the Military … Celebrate Freedom” in a big way with 11 grand marshals leading the way down Kamehameha Highway.

The 51st parade will begin at 9 a.m. Dec. 7 by Windward Mall, making its way to Castle High School with the following honored leaders: 442nd Regimental Combat Team Army veterans John Nakamura and Richard Urada; Army Reserve Col. Penny Kalua, Army Col. Nathan Wong, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary’s Skippy Sweet, Hawaii Air National Guard Chief Master Sgt. George Stibbard, Marine Lt. Col. Paul Fields, Navy Lt. Cmdr. Hank Van Oss, National Principal of the Year Sheena Alaisa of King Intermediate, State Principal of the Year Naomi Matsuzaki of Kahaluu Elementary and U.S. Rep. (and Iraq war veteran) Tulsi Gabbard.

The lineup also boasts clowns, elves, Santa Claus, five bands, 10 floats, 40 vehicles and about 1,800 marchers, all coordinated by Kuulei Olsen Richardson.

Donations always are welcome to help with event costs, and the 2013 parade T-shirts are selling now at Kaneohe Bakery, Koolau Pets and all Kaneohe banks. Donate $500 and receive a VIP seat at the reviewing stand plus reserved parking.

Send checks to Kaneohe Christmas Parade, P.O. Box 412, Kailua, Hi 96734.

For more information, call 348-2749.