Clearlake inaugurated the holiday season in style on Saturday with the Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce”s annual Christmas Light Parade. The event culminated at Austin Park with a tree lighting ceremony, Christmas carols and a special performance by the Konocti Dance Academy dancers.
The weather was particularly pleasant for this year”s event, which contributed to an increase in participants as well as spectators. “This was the best turnout for this parade in many years due to the nice weather,” Tom Hewlett, Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce president said. “Everything flowed seamlessly from the parade to the tree lighting.”
Following the parade, the crowd gathered at Austin Park where families enjoyed hot cocoa courtesy of the Lakeshore Lions Club and cookies donated by Foods, Etc. Yuba College elves Bonnie Vaughn and Nichole Steele, along with little elves Michelle Steele, 9 and Wyatt Steele, 7, assisted Davis Photography in providing all the good little boys and girls with a photo opportunity with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
The Konocti Love Choir filled the air with seasonal favorites while the munchkins of Konocti Dance Academy danced their way into the hearts of all with their precious Christmas performance. The event culminated with a tree lighting ceremony that followed a prayer led by Pastor Richard Bean.
“All the floats were wonderful this year and we would like to thank all of the participants for making this parade a huge success,” Lori Peter, chamber executive director said.
Floats in the Clearlake Christmas Light Parade, “Christmas Carols Come Life,” were awarded as follows:
? Most Appropriate to Theme: Cactus Grill”s “Grandma Got Ran Over by a Reindeer.”
? Most Imaginative Float: Bob Murray and Linda Baker”s “Picked up Frosty the Snowman hitchhiking to Clearlake.”
? Best Choir: Tony Bordessa Construction”s “The Singing Santa.”
? Best Automobile: Rex Claytor”s 1932 Ford Roadster.
? Best Costumes: Clearlake Church of the Nazerene”s “Away in a Manger” depicted with a shepherd and angels.
? Funniest Group/Float: Cactus Grill”s “Grandma Got Ran Over by a Reindeer.”
? Best Group: Associated Students (Elves) of Yuba College.
? Best Float: Konocti Dance Academy piled high with dancers of all ages.
? Best Use of Lights: Lake County Fire Protection District.
? Most Unique: Elliott Naess”s “Pear County Chopper” kinetic sculpture amphibious tricycle.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com or call her directly at 994-6444, ext. 11.
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