LIHUE — Franklin Kakazu of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints helped officiate the dedication of the tiki that was carved in place by Kumu Kamakana Bray and na haumana of Kauai Maoli Woodcarving Academy.
Named “Lonoiki ‘Eke Makahiki,” Kumu Kamakana — his Western name is “Kenneth,” or “Ken” — explained the icon is the deity Lono which is the god of agriculture, rain, health, and peace. During the long period it took to create Lono from the trunk of a coconut tree that was the victim of winter winds, Kumu Kamakana said having Lono located where he is at the western, or Times Supermarket, entrance represents the shopping center where people come to gather goods and knowledge.
During the long period involved in Lono being formed under the veil of obscure trash bags and plastic sheeting, Kumu Kamkana and na haumana, or students, of Maoli Woodworking Academy were active participants of Hawaiian cultural demonstrations and presentations to tell the story of how Lono is the celebrated god during the Makahiki, a time set aside for tribute, harvest, sport, and play.
The Friday dedication that was held before a small group of Kukui Grove management and staff, and curious onlookers who stopped after being attracted by the Tahitian drumming authored by Tepairu Manea and his followers, also coincided with the start of the makahiki that is dedicated to Lono.
The start of makahiki is signaled by the rising of Makalii, or the constellation Pleiades, at sunset, and marks the start of the Hawaiian new year. Makahiki usually ends in late January or early February.
Melissa McFerrin Warrack, the special events coordinator was excited about the coincidence of events.
Following a day to give thanks during Thanksgiving, the shopping center starts its hectic, exciting holiday calendar with the Black Friday and Small Business weekend activities that will center around Mele Makeke, or translated to mean Merry Market, where unused portions of the shopping center will transform into a marketplace of vendors that normally are not confined to brick and mortar spaces.
Kukui Grove is currently accepting applications from vendors interested in participating in Mele Makeke.
