LIHU‘E — “Is this line for the tickets, or for those wanting to go in?” a visitor queried while waiting in the line that snaked back from the entrance of Vidinha Stadium to the parking lot. Most of the people
LIHU‘E — “Is this line for the tickets, or for those wanting to go in?” a visitor queried while waiting in the line that snaked back from the entrance of Vidinha Stadium to the parking lot.
Most of the people in the line had already acquired their pre-sale ticket, and Dick Holtzman and his wife had the luxury of watching people pass the time in the line from their vantage point of the ticket booth for the 16th Annual Kaua‘i Hospice Concert in the Sky.
When the gates opened promptly at 3 p.m., the stream of people quickly worked through the cordoned-off grass field of the stadium to find their “best” vantage point, and within 45 minutes of opening, most of the grass area had been carpeted over by spectators carrying folding chairs, umbrellas, and an assortment of paraphernalia to help them pass the time until the King Auto Center pyrotechnics display at 8:30 p.m.
Eve Hands had just moved here from England, and along with her neighbor from Plantation Hale, was perusing the culinary offerings before securing a spot on the grass.
David Bice of FM97 was the opening voice and got help from Andreas D’Zuro of Hits 99, and the evening capped off with Ron Wiley of KQNG doing the honors, Bice noting that when The Rubies, one of the opening entertainment acts, graduate, they can book “Reunion” shows like C&K who headlined the entertainment lineup.
Kaua‘i mayor Bryan Baptiste, who along with a crew of supporters, was dispensing beverages in the food lineup, reminded people that July Fourth is a time to remember those who are still serving in the face of danger to preserve the values of freedom, and hopes that a similar show of support will welcome home Kaua‘i’s sons and daughters when they return from Iraq.
The formal program was headlined by the presentation of colors by the color guard from the United States Marine Corps League with messages of thanks and appreciation from Phil Clark, the Executive Director for Kaua‘i Hospice.
Alan Van Zee rendered the national anthem with Uncle Louis Jacintho presenting the Hawai‘i state anthem.
Rev. Diane Martinson-Koyama introduced Rev. Midori Kondo and Rev. Mary Lindquist who provided short, but poignant prayers before the fun and enjoyment got under way.
In addition to the food, children, and entertainment activities, a Silent Auction offered several value packages for a donation.
