For every scholarship award ceremony, Blackie and Sara Gadarian dressed in Blackie’s trademark orange work shirts. In memory of Blackie, Sara continued the tradition this year.

LAHAINA — Sara Gadarian announced the winners of the Blackie’s Machine Shop Vocational Scholarships on Monday, May 17, at the Virtual Scholarship Program given by Lahainaluna High School.

She reported that three $1,000 awards were given to students in the following fields: Automotive — Isiah Niles and Kai Claydon; Woods — Jose Miguel Lara Lopez.

In the 40 years since 1981, Blackie and Sara Gadarian have presented 224 awards for vocational students who use the money to purchase tools necessary to get a skilled job immediately upon graduation, enter an apprenticeship program, or pay tuition and costs for advanced vocational training. The vocational instructors determine the awardees.

In past years, funds were raised from sales of shirts, hats and souvenirs from Blackie’s Bar in Lahaina, and contributions from friends of Blackie and Sara.