Club celebrates birthday of longtime member

HUI O HULA

Hui O Hula dancers recently celebrated the birthday of veteran hula dancer Susan “Susie” Cucci, a beloved and distinguished member of the LW hula “ohana”/family.

A Southern California native, Cucci built a full and happy life with her husband Steve, raising two children while working in corporate America for 25 years. When she retired, she knew she would find some way to be of service to others.

Not long after she moved into Mutual 4 two decades ago, she discovered Hui O Hula, the LW Hawaiian dance club founded by Jojo Weingart and friends. She quickly embraced Weingart and the group, making new friends and joining in dances that shared aloha throughout the Leisure World community and outside the gates.

“I never would have thought I’d be a hula dancer, and I love it!” she shared.

In class, Cucci is both mentor and role model to newer dancers. She is always ready with advice, encouragement and inspiration. She especially enjoys performing for those who are homebound, where her bright smile and dedication embody the true spirit of aloha. The club gives a big thank you to Cucci for stepping in to hold classes and look after the dancers while instructor Weingart is away.

—Lori Chamberlin