Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs

Hawaiian Civic Club of Honolulu 2012
by Manu Boyd

Our most memorable club activity was the annual scholarship fundraiser this past March. Highlights of the event were a royal reception, sumptuous fare, silent auction and top island entertainment including Robert Cazimero. The theme for the ball was “He Aloha Na Kai ‘Ewalu” (beloved are the eight ocean channels that embrace Hawai‘i nei). We honored four outstanding community leaders who contributed significantly to the well-being of our community.

Jon Van Dyke (posthumous), Hawaiian law expert and international ocean law attorney, and surfing/paddling legends Buffalo Keaulana, Nappy Napolean, and his wife, Dr. Anona Napoleon.

The Holoku Ball is one of Hawai'i’s oldest traditions. The Hawaiian Civic Club of Honolulu has sponsored it for more than 80 years as an annual scholarship fundraiser. The proceeds generated from this event have assisted over 2,000 talented and deserving Hawaiian students in pursuing their educational endeavors at colleges and universities in Hawai’i and throughout the Mainland. Over $65,000 in scholarship funds were awarded last year to 60 recipients. Another aspect of the Holoku Ball is that it provides opportunities to mentor club members, the students and scholarship recipients in leadership skills. Being involved with the planning and implementation of the ball helps everyone in developing hands on experience in leadership, teamwork, fellowship and celebrate the success of the ball.

• Our membership increased by 30 new members for a total membership of 260.
• Club members attended 3 Ali'i Sundays this past year.
• Club members also participated in various legislative hearings regarding Hawaiian entitlements and rights that were challenged throughout the year.
• Congratulations to HCCH member Leimomi Khan who is serving as Past President of the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs (AHCC), Maylene Enoka, Secretary for the AHCC, and Anita Naone, HCCH Vice President who is serving as the Kona Hema Moku Director for the O'ahu Council.
• Over 20 volunteer delegates attended the AOHCC Convention at Turtle Bay this past October. Congratulations to Manu Boyd for his award as the Outstanding Hawaiian Civic Club member.
• The kupuna and senior members participated in the annual bake sale fundraiser at Nake'u Awai Christmas Faire . Everyone had a great time.
• The annual Christmas Party was held at Wolfgang Restaurant Royal Hawn Center and included elections for new officers and board members.
• Our club was responsible for all of the Kuhio Day Birthday Services at Kawaiaha'o Church and Mauna 'Ala this year.
•  Big mahalos to HCCH member Manu Boyd for his support as the MC for the Kuhio Day Parade in March and to Macky Shea for her support at the Kamehameha Day festivities.
• In July a HCCH Cultural Day gathering for club members and family was held at Kualoa Park. Joining us at our gathering were members of Ko'olaupoko and Ko'olauloa civic clubs. Lots of fun, games, swimming, music and food were enjoyed by everyone. Manu Boyd held a talk story session about the cultural significance of the Kualoa area.