Sitting along the sidewalk and watching our annual 4th of July Parade [1] is one of the most highly anticipated summer activities in Alameda every year. Friends, families, and neighbors gather to wave and cheer for participants. Some get squirted with water (it’s a fun way to cool off), and many put out picnics and barbecue fare for each other. It’s truly a community party.
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[3]And of course, there would be no parade without all of those who walk, cycle, drive, skate, or ride horses to feature their organizations or businesses and maybe even win a prize. They are the ones who make it what it is—a truly Alameda experience. They all deserve recognition for creating the best parade ever. The judges chose some of them to recognize with awards.
This year’s prizewinners were announced on Thursday, July 16, at an awards ceremony at the Jean Sweeney Open Space Park pavilion. Alameda Vice Mayor Michele Pryor announced and presented the awards, assisted by two parade judges, Dr. Cindy Acker and Pam Williams.
This year’s Grand Marshal, Chief Nicholas Luby, and the Alameda Fire Department were recognized for their service.
The top prize—the coveted Mayor’s Trophy—went to the historic Alameda Theatre and Cinema Grill.
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[6]Division winners were awarded as follows:
Community/Neighborhood
- 1st place: International Chi Institute, Kung Fu School.
- 2nd place: 3-Wheel Unity.
- 3rd place: Alameda Soda.
Business
- 1st place: Alameda Theatre.
- 2nd place: Shaka Shack.
- 3rd place: Trader Joe’s.
Equestrian
- 1st place: Shiloh West Ranch.
- 2nd place: Apple Creek Farms.
- 3rd place: Rancho El Afortunado.
Green Power
- 1st place: Cargo Bike Brigade – Children’s Books.
- 2nd place: All Rise Alameda & Indivisible Alameda.
- 3rd place: Scouting America – Alameda Area District.
Live Music
- 1st place: St. Joseph Notre Dame High School Band.
- 2nd place: Diablo Roofing, Inc.
- 3rd place: Otaez Mexican Restaurant.
Movement
- 1st place: Filipino Island Fest.
- 2nd place: Alameda Vipers Basketball.
- 3rd place: Rise Bodyworks Freak Truck.
Nonprofit
- 1st place: Alameda Elks place: Celebrate Our American Diversity.
- 2nd place: Alameda Pride – Together We Rise!
- 3rd place: Alameda Friends of the Parks Foundation.