Enduring a pandemic, full season canoe racing has returned this year just in time for Kawaihae Canoe Club to commemorate its 50th anniversary.
The Waimea Arts Council announces the Hoe Waa celebration at the Firehouse Gallery Wednesday through June 26.
Since the arrival of the Polynesians in our islands, hoe waa has been an integral part of life for Hawaiian culture, providing transportation, food and later, sport. But more than that, it is an opportunity to work together and build community spirit.
The roots of KCC and the Firehouse Gallery go back to their inceptions. Uncle Manny Veincent’s “day job” in 1972 was Fire Captain of Waimea’s first firehouse, located on the southwest corner of the intersection of the Mamalahoa Highway and Lindsey Road. When he wasn’t fighting fires, Veincent was coaching at the KCC.
That building is now the Firehouse Gallery and is connected to KCC through an enduring aloha spirit that welcomes people of all ages to participate, creating opportunities for youngsters to explore and test their abilities, whether artistic or athletic.
To honor the roots and connections between the gallery and KCC, there will be a June exhibition and celebration. The Hoe Waa show features Coach Manny’s collection of paddles, including one dating from the 1860s. There will also be photographs, scrapbooks, trophies, memorabilia, paddling-related art and two Sunday afternoon “talk story” receptions on June 5 and 26. Refreshments included.
A growing list of artists currently includes Dave Allbee, Mary Spears, Kristi Kranz, Jan Marrack, Barbara Jelks, Simmon Whippy, Kim Horn, Karen Olanna, Chris Kutler, Suzi Lacey, Wendi Roehrig, Barbara Schaefer, Jane Taylor, Dianne Boucher, Terry Bensch and Patti Pease Johnson.
The Firehouse Gallery, located in Waimea at 67-1021 Mamlahoa Highway, is open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday through Sunday, or when the doors are open and flags flying.
For more information waimeaartscouncil.org.