Windward Ho'olaule'a

Sign up for craft, food booths at Windward Ho'olaule'a

Reader Submitted
The 9th Annual Windward Ho'olaule'a, one of the largest community events in Windward O'ahu, will be held Saturday, Sept. 26 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Windward Community College in Kāne'ohe.
The event is coordinated by the Kaneohe Business Group and WCC. Admission is free, and an estimated 15,000 people are expected to attend. Flagship sponsors are Hawaiian Electric Co. and Ameron Hawaii.

The event will feature top island entertainment, a job fair, 'ono ethnic food, unique crafts, keiki activities, a white elephant and used book sale, community displays, and a college-sponsored silent auction to benefit student programs and scholarships.

"The Ho'olaule'a has become a tradition on the Windward side, with something for the whole family," said chair Herb Lee. "This year we're emphasizing our theme, "E Pū Like Kākou (Let's Come Together as One).

"We wanted to send a message of hope in these challenging times, that we're one community and need to support each other."

Among the featured performers on the outdoor stage will be Na Hoku Hanohano award winners Ledward Kaapana, Holunape, Brother Noland, Kupaoa and Mailani - all of whom have won their own Hokus.

The entertainment will also feature a preview of WCC's production of "West Side Story," set to open Sept. 25 at the college's Paliku Theatre.

Also available will be shows at the college's Imaginarium and an open house at Lanihuli Observatory and the Center for Aerospace Education on campus.

New this year is a job fair to link local companies with potential employees.

"We wanted to use the event to help people looking for a better future," said Lee.
"We're very grateful for the tremendous community support, even in these tough times. The event is a way to highlight the talent, culture and businesses of Windward O'ahu as well as educational and career opportunities."

Companies can still get involved as event sponsors by calling Sandy Kurosaki at 265-2016 or donate to the silent auction by calling Carla Rogers at 235-7387. Those interested in participating in the job fair can contact Michael Moser at 386-3602.

Prospective vendors can all Judy Oliveira (crafts) at 235-7480 or Gus Cobb-Adams (food) at 235-7485.

Applications can also be downloaded from http://windward.hawaii.edu/hoolaulea.