AAUW and APL’s Honuakai co-sponsor Canoe Sailing Fundraiser Nov. 15

10/26/2009

The public has an opportunity to learn about and experience traditional Hawaiian navigation on a voyaging canoe – thanks to a collaborative effort of `Aha Punana Leo’s Honuakai (Wayfinder’s divison) and the American Association of University Women-Hilo Branch (AAUW) on Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009.

AAUW and Honuakai plan a fun-filled day that will include a 45-minute ride on a double-hull voyaging canoe in Hilo Bay starting at Hilo Bayfront, as well as lunch (chili and rice) with drink, opportunities to paddle a canoe, learn knot-tying, compete in rope-throwing contests, and view a video about Hawaiian navigation. Participants must weight more than 50 pounds (in order to use the personal flotation safety devices aboard the canoe).

Only seven voyaging cruises will be offered and seating is limited. The cruises will be leaving on the hour beginning at 9:00 a.m., with the final cruise starting at 3:00pm. The cost is $50 ($45 is tax-deductible) per person. To make reservations call Susan James at 808-982-9815, or e-mail her at susan@jaycurlee.com. Please indicate the time you would like your cruise. She will explain where to send your payment (by check only as credit cards will not be accepted). Tickets will be held at the event.

Without reservations, seats will be assigned on a first come, first served basis. Late arrivals may be able to get a seat on subsequent sailings, but only if space is available. Dress appropriately with the expectation of getting wet.

Funds raised from this event will be equally split to support educational programs at both AAUW and the Honuakai program. `Aha Punana Leo, or the Hawaiian language nest, focuses on programs to promote and ensure the continuity of the Hawaiian language, with programs for preschool children to adults. AAUW-Hilo uses its funds to promote education for women through the lifespan. Among its programs are an annual Math-Science conference for 7th grade girls, and scholarships for women attending UHH-Hilo. It also contributes to the national AAUW educational foundation which funds fellowships to assist women in their graduate studies.

Rain will not cancel event (this is Hilo!). Sailings would only be cancelled in the event of lightning storms, or any severe conditions requiring Civil Defense warnings. Check at the Bayfront to confirm cancellation.

MEDIA Contacts:
Susan James, AAUW
PH. 808-982-9815
susan@jaycurlee.com

Kaimana Barcarse, `Aha Punana Leo
PH. 808-933-2588, © 989-3738
kaimana@leoki.uhh.hawaii.edu