Top Lake Forest Parade Entries Honored

Boy Scouts, cheerleaders and talented Little Leaguers packed the City Council chamber Tuesday evening for a presentation recognizing the winning entries in Lake Forests' 2011 Independence Parade.

This year’s parade marked the city’s 20th annual Fourth of July festivities, and also celebrated the city’s 20th anniversary of incorporation, approaching this December.

“This truly did solely start from the community,” said Mayor Peter Herzog of the parade.

Lake Forest boasts the only Fourth of July parade in South Orange County, and it regularly impresses visitors from out of town with its size, he added.

The members of the parade committee, which organizes the annual celebration, attended the meeting in matching white polos and were recognized for their dedication to the annual event.

Recognized individually were three people who have served on the committee since its inception: John Irish, Loretta Herrin and Jean Mastropietro. Elaine Pong, John Wilson and Sybil Wilson were also recognized for each serving a decade on the committee.

Supporters of the parade effort also received thanks, including the Lake Forest Kiwanis Club, Orange County Sheriff’s Explorers, Lake Forest Police Services, Lake Forest STARS, and firefighters from Station 19, the Orange County Fire Authority post in Lake Forest. Sponsors Waste Management of Orange County, Cox Communications and Chick-Fil-A Foothill Ranch were also thanked by city officials for their support.

A total of 19 awards were handed out at the meeting to representatives of the following groups who competed in the parade.

2011 Independence Day Parade Award Winners

Best theme: Cub Scout Pack 629

Most creative: Lake Forest Senior Scene Clubhouse

Best commercial entry: Waste Management

Best of Lake Forest: of Lake Forest

Best civic entry: The Teen Project

Best community outreach: Compass Bible Church

Mayor's Award: Uncle Sam & Snoopy's Bi-plane

Most original: Mission Viejo Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge

Best sports entries: Lake Forest Little League 10/11-year-old All Stars; Lake Forest Little League 12-year-old All Stars

Best musical unit:

Best spirit entries: Royal Blue Regiment; El Toro High School Football; El Toro High School Song & Cheer

Best vehicle: Pick Up Parts Deuce

Most patriotic entry: Abiding Savior Lutheran Church

Best animal unit: Red, White, and Blue Posse

Best marching unit: One Man Rifle Team

Sandy Mink Award: Veterans of America

The last award, a new addition to the judging lineup, was presented by Dick Mink, husband of its namesake.

He spoke of her dedication to her family and her country—and Lake Forest's annual parade.

At the conclusion of the presentation, city recreation coordinator and parade organizer Ron Rivera invited those assembled to next year's Independence Day Parade: "Lake Forest Hometown USA."