By Kekoa Manner
I wanted to send a big shout to all those who helped my mom prepare and fundraise last minute for her hula dancers, Arahmae and Jeny so they could compete in this year's 2019 Spotlight Regional Competition held at the Leeward Community College Friday and Saturday.
Both girls did a wonderful job. Arahmae competed Friday night with a self taught solo vocal and playing the ukulele to the song a Million Dreams. She took home a Diamond Award and took 8th place in the top 10 for her age group.
Yesterday, Arahmae returned to Spotlight to do a hula solo to the song Ka PIlina, My sister, Christina taught Arahmae that song in less than a month. Arahmae won a Diamond Award, a Specialty Award, and an Overall Diamond.Award.
Later in the day, Jeny did a hula solo that my mom taught her. She danced to the song, Puamana. This song is special because Jeny's family comes from Lahaina. Jeny won a Diamond Award and a Judge's Choice Award.
A big MAHALO to the following people who helped make this happen. Sorry in advance if I forget to mention your name:
Spotlight/for allowing my mom's hula dancers to participate even though they registered late
Aunty Joan/for sewing Arahmae's beautiful red hula dress
All those who helped with hair and make-up for Arahmae and Jeny
Harriet's Lei Stand
Aloha Hula Supply
Ka Pilina o ka Hula me ka Ho'okanikapila hula sisters and their 'ohana who came to watch and support the girls during their performances
Tina and my mom for teaching the girls their hula songs
Dance Pixs for the beautiful on stage photos
And a special thanks to Makua Chris and Makua Kerrie for saving my mom earlier yesterday from falling. I'm sure she was just being her stubborn self at that moment. I thank God that both of you were there in her time of need.
Congratulations Arahmae and Jeny. We are so proud of you two!!!
Mahalo,
Kekoa
Arahmae and Jeny
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Photos by Kekoa Manner and Dance Pixs