Photos by Catherine Stachowiak
A large crowd showed up for this year’s Christmas Parade, which the Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce organized and held in Lake Isabella, Saturday November 30.
This year the theme was “KRV Strong,” based on the community’s stepping up for one another after neighbors in Havilah survived the Borel Fire.
The 46 annual Christmas Parade ran its usual route along Lake Isabella Boulevard, from Nugget Avenue, in the direction of Erskine Creek Road, when one of the floats broke down, forcing volunteers near the end of the route to direct traffic, continuing the parade route.
The Grand Martial for the parade this year was Congressman Vince Fong who actually did make an appearance despite his busy schedule. Fong was especially welcomed after staying on top of things, during the fire event, according to chamber administrative staff member Liz Mendia who said, “His office has been involved in providing relief efforts.”
Earlier the chair for the parade planning committee, Mickie Phillips said that the committee welcomed at least 40 entrees. Over all there appeared to be 47 entrees to the parade.
Danny Hill of Outlaw Radio was MC at the event. And American Legion Riders from Post 711 chapter came and led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance. Chaplain Mike Woodward said, “Welcome to the Lake Isabella Kern River Valley Christmas Parade.”
Fred Clark, president of the Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce awarded ribbons and trophies to winners in the parade.
Winning First Place Ribbon in the Vehicles category was the Joshua Tree Reptile Haven, a non-profit reptile sanctuary.
For the Most Original category the trophy winner was our local library, the Kern River Valley Branch Library of the Kern County Library System.
The Most Spirited trophy winner was Jeep it real, a Jeep Group in the KRV.
The First Place Ribbon winner for Horses and Mules category was Los Vaqueros Gymkhana Club-District 35, which is a local horse club.
The First Place Ribbon Float category winner was float 23, the Vietnam Veterans, a group helping support veterans.
The Best Overall category trophy winner was the Shepard of the Hills Lutheran Church, a 50 year-old congregation in the Kern Valley.
The First Place Ribbon winner for Marching Group category was Kern River Valley Cub Scout Pack 711.
This year the chamber requested business owners along Lake Isabella Boulevard decorate their businesses. The chamber plans on selecting the best of decorated businesses. The chamber will announce Best Business Christmas Decorations December 20. First, second, and third place winners will receive awards and special recognition in the Lake Lines President of the chamber’s message.
