Posted on: Wednesday, May 18, 2005
McKenna honored by auto-dealers group
Advertiser Staff
The American International Auto Dealers Association yesterday named Kailua-based auto dealer Mike McKenna the National Auto Dealer of the Year in ceremonies held at the JW Marriott Hotel in Washington, D.C.
McKenna also has given away more than 25 cars as door prizes to encourage students to attend "Project Grad" alcohol- and drug-free graduation celebrations at Hawai'i high schools.
The car giveaways started in 1996 when Kalaheo High School's Project Grad chairwoman Kathie Wells approached McKenna for a $100 donation. She wanted to use the money to boost attendance at the graduation party sponsored by the school's parents.
Concerned about the low attendance at previous parties, McKenna responded: "What if I give you a car to give away?"
"I couldn't believe it," Wells said. The car, a gull-winged Bricklin, drew serious student attention when it was put on display at the school.
Attendance at the parties had been averaging about 35 percent of the graduating class. McKenna said he would give the car away if attendance hit 95 percent. The night of the party, 97 percent of the class showed up.
The free car door prize is now offered at Castle, Kailua, Kalaheo and Kahuku high schools and a Kailua, Kona high school near his dealership on the Big Island.
McKenna, known for his support of the state's education system, is approaching his personal goal of donating $1 million to Hawai'i's schools through 10,000 checks of $100 each.
