Kailua Chamber Hosts 66th July 4th Parade

BY CAITLIN BASILIO

Bands, color guards, churches, scouts, clubs, dance studios, floats, war veterans and politicians should liven up Kainalu Drive next Wednesday during Kailua’s annual patriotic celebration.

Grand marshal is Fred Hemmings, who is being honored for his achievements in surfing. “He is the epitome of water and the beach,” said John Keene of the former Windward lawmaker and world surfing champion. More than 52 units have signed up to follow Hemmings in the march – including the Royal Hawaiian and Marine Corps bands – and all will be adorned on the 2012 theme of “Red, White and Ocean Blue.”

Keene, Castle hospital’s development director, is coordinating the parade this year with area chiropractor Chip Abbadessa. The parade logo was designed by Billy Whitney, owner of 808 Tattoo in Kaneohe.

The 66th annual march begins at 10 a.m. July 4, moving from Palapu Street down Kainalu Drive to Kailua Intermediate School where it should finish around 11:30 a.m. Police close off traffic at 9 a.m. on Kainalu Drive.

For details, call the Kailua Chamber of Commerce at 261-7997 or visit kailuachamber.com.