Aloha Kākou,

Wow, this year we had such a fantastic Hawaiʻi Potluck Picnic! We hope you all had a great time. It was a perfect day for the picnic and everyone's aloha spirit, musical talents, hula hips and super ʻono foods made it even more bettah! To all who attended the picnic, in person or in spirit, mahalo nui loa for your kōkua.

Many of you donated to Hālāwai in support of the picnic and from our hearts, thank you. We specifically needed help to cover the sound permit and "clean-up bond" which we thought included garbage removal for the picnic. Our plans were suddenly adjusted when various NYC officials stopped by during the afternoon to tell us we were responsible for taking out the garbage ourselves, bond or no bond and not complying would jeopardize future permit application approvals. So, a big Mahalo to those who stepped in at the last minute to help. Please be reassured that the funds collected on Sunday are earmarked for the current and future annual picnic costs.

Since the weather was so good this year, we had an awesome turnout. So, based upon feedback from the Central Park Conservancy/NYC Parks Dept, our picnic attendance has grown to a size that may require a change of location next year. So make sure you check the Hālāwai site or better yet sign up for the emails and make sure all your friends sign up as well so no one misses any of the local-style happenings.

Mālama pono,
Hālāwai