More than twelve (donated) performances, many kupuna demonstrations and a turtle sell-out later, the 17th annual Ho’omau was pau. The annual fundraising event for Punana Leo O Molokai, the Molokai chapter of the statewide preschool immersion program, attracted more than 500 people to the Laniekeha Center Saturday for food, carnival rides, a silent auction, raffles, and booths showcasing student work.
Event chairwoman Miki’ala Pescaia, who has participated in the event as a parent and organizer for six years, said that this year was different.
“Instead of just fundraising, we went back to the origins,” she said. “We’re sharing the Hawaiian language, with the gallery in the back and the kupuna demonstrations… Many kupuna came from off-island and there are special guests from throughout the ‘aha.”
Manuwai Peters, who was on Molokai when the Hawaiian Immersion programs were started, 20 years ago, said, “It’s a celebration of language and culture.” He continued, “My hat’s off to parents who choose to immerse their children in the program. The event helps to reward those who’ve chosen immersion education for their kids.”
Loretta Ritte, her son and her sister-in-law manned a booth, selling plants, prints and pets, young freshwater turtles and guppies in glass bowls. “The turtles are a big seller,” she said. “It’s the second year for the Ritte ohana and it’s going well.”
Kualapu’u School Immersion students Kamakalehiwa Purdy-Avelino, 9, and sisters Melia Kalawe, 10, and Maile Kalawe, 6, were enjoying the festivities. The trio performed with their classes on stage. “We loved the music, the singing, and the food,” said spokeswoman Purdy-Avelino. “Our favorite song is Oiwie. Our whole class is here, and we’ll be back next year.”
Vendor DeeAnn Dudoit-Doo said that she’s been coming to the event for three years, but it was her first year as a vendor, selling toys and games. Asked if she’d be back next year, Dudoit-Doo nodded, “It’s a good event.”
A highlight of the event, said Pescaia, was Hana Keaka, a play put on by Hui Makua, the immersion parent organization, obliged to participate and learn Hawaiian due to their children.
Other performances included: Wehena, kids from Punana Leo O Molokai, Kula Kaiapuni ‘o Kualapu’u, ‘O Hina I ka Malama, Aunty April Kealoha’s Hula Halau, Na Kupuna, Na Kama & Puolo, the Arelino family, and Ho’okuku & Pa’ani
