WAIPOULI — How many Ricola wrappers did it take to make the Ricola lei that was submitted for judging in the Recycle/Reuse category was the question of the day on Friday when the Malie Foundation hosted Na Lei Pua ‘Ole Contest, or translated to mean “Flowerless lei,” at the Sheraton Kaua‘i Resort Coconut Beach.
With the activity confined to the afternoon hours, including registration, judging and entertainment by Waipu‘ilani Flores and Kumu Maka Herrod and Na Hui O Kamekaokalani hula performers, the resort’s ballroom teemed with excitement from spectators the inspected the various lei submissions and enjoyed the entertainment.
Loke Notebo finished as the day’s big winner after capturing top honors in the Seeds and Nuts Division, and advancing to earn the President’s Award.
Ali‘i Shell Lei took first and second place honors in the Shells Division, and finished with the People’s Choice Award. Laura Wolfgang dominated the Feather Division with first and second place honors.
Maka Herrod of the Malie Foundation reminded people of the Kaua‘i Mokihana Festival that will run from Sept. 22-28.
The festival will open with the Hawaiian Church Service on Sept. 22, the Composer’s Contest on Sept. 23, a presentation by Kauhane Morton, practitioners on Sept. 24, a hula workshop led by Kumu Hula Ku‘ualohanui Kauli‘ on Sept. 26, and wrap up with the 2-day hula competition and craft fair.
Results
Leaves/Vines: 1. Tina Taniguchi; 2. Keahi Manea; 3. Firidi Salas
Seeds/Nuts: 1. Loke Notebo; 2. Joy Chow; 3. Kailea Horka
Shells: 1. Ali‘i Shell Lei; 2. Ali‘i Shell Lei; 3. Myrahami Gerardo
Feather: 1. Laura Wolfgang; 2. Laura Wolfgang; 3. Erika Sakamoto
Recycle/Reuse: 1. Firida Salas; 2. Heidi Wong; 3. Rene Tokuda
People’s Choice: Kaimana/Ali‘i Shell Lei
President’s Award: Loke Notebo
