Thanks to everyone who participated in the parade this year. The turnout was incredible and the artistry, creativity and sheer exuberance of our Marchers was off the charts. The weather was perfect, and for the second time in history we had a religious leader as a member of our Royal Family. Maybe Rev. Billy had something to do with the great weather. I can't remember what the weather was like when Rabbi Abraham was our King.

Our fair Queen, Savitri D., demonstrated the best characteristics of a responsible Monarch by utilizing her "bully pulpit" to share her views on the changes in Coney Island. And she took it very far, foregoing all the benefits of the royal lifestyle to live ascetically in a window on Surf Avenue after the Parade.

This year there were some grumblings from some Judges about bribes being a little thin, but the lack of quantity was made up by quality. And we observed an interesting phenomenon where it seems the best Bribers are usually the folks with the best Entries.

There is an idea floating around for a Bribe Show at the Coney Island Museum. Over the years the Chief Justice (with the invaluable help of Mrs. Chief Justice) has been gathering a collection of some of the more interesting bribes. So next year keep that in mind as you plan your Entry. Your bribe may end up in a Museum.

Congratulations again to everyone who participated. We hope that everyone recognizes the near impossible nature of the task of Judging. The Parade is just too good. We inevitably miss some really great stuff. Well, there's always next year. Be sure to head to the Coney Island Bulletin Boards if you have comments, complaints, or even compliments.

See images from the 2008 parade on our bulletin board.

We are still determing how awards will be given out. Stay tuned:

Best Mermaid
1) 467 - Charlotte from the Marine Antoinettes
2) 428 – Mermaids from the Brooklyn Brass
3) 356 – Mermaid from On the Way to the Lab

Best Neptune
1) 600 – Carl Wolentarski
2) 586 – Anthony Natale, the Neptune with a Real Beard!
3) 338 – James Curd of Poseidon and Triton

Best Little Mermaid
1) 330 – Little Mermaid from the Meteorologist Mermaids
2) 325 – Mermaids from Mermaidia
3) 342 – Baby Mermaid from Wee Willie Pirates Mermaids

Best Little Neptune
1) 301 – Max, the Little Mayor of Coney Island
2) 355 – Little Neptune from the Barnacle and Bail 'em Circus
3) 542 – Daniel Shea Clarke

Push Pull Float
1) 421 – The Covade Parade
2) 365 – The Sandwich Boards
3) 346 – Debbie D

Motorized Float
1) ??? – Ciudad de Quito (help us identify this float!)
2) 81 – Gleny's Shortbus
3) 70 – Segway Pirate

Music Group
1) 79 – Rockaway Artists Alliance
2) 1 – Coney Island History Project
3) 86 – Highway to Hell

Marching Group
1) 467 - Marine Antoinettes
2) 406 – Kostume Kult - Seasikkness
3) 71 – Brooklyn Bombshell Review

Best Sea Creature
1) 398 - King Kong and Fin Wray
2) 502 - Dreamgirls of Dreamland
3) 152 – Black Smokers

Judge’s Choice
1) 400 – Carolyn McCrory

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