We were honored to be notified that the Paliku Academy of Performing Arts won THREE awards during our FIRST time entered in the Kane'ohe Christmas Parade!

Aunty Ku'ulei Richardson, Parade Secretary and in charge of entries, contacted me this past week and delivered the good news.

"Your float was THE BEST float I have ever seen in all my years working on the parade!"  She explained that PAPA took 1st Place in Non-Commercial Float, 1st Place in Marching Unit for Youth & Adults and then the surprise.  A first for the parade - the Overall Most Outstanding Entry Award.  No one has ever been a first-time entry and took all the awards.

The most important part came next.  She said that the feedback she got from the helpers is how professional our group is.  How we were ready to go, listened to directions, knew our number, line-up, etc. and how we were gracious and full of energy and the "true spirit of the season".  She also mentioned that she and Art Machado (current chair of the whole parade and block party) said when we took the road and spread out, the crowds reaction echoed how they felt.  It was so exciting and "you knew this group would deliver!  You took our parade to the next level!"

The comments and praise continue to pour in and we are blessed to receive such a warm reception.  Thank you to everyone who came out and cheered!  Also, thank you the parade committee for continuing such a wonderful tradition in our community.  Special thanks to the hard working team of parent volunteers for making our dreams come true.  And most of all, to the kids!  To say I'm proud is such the understatement.  I just remain in awe of not only our float and marching unit, but more so of the comments and praise.  It's time the world knew about us and how we continue to...empower...engage...educate!

Mele Kailikimaka to all!