Hui O Hula

Hui O Hula, the LW Hawaiian dance group, continues to share aloha in hula dancing classes every Tuesday at 1 p.m. upstairs in Clubhouse 6 and every Thursday at 1 p.m. outdoors at Veterans Plaza (moving indoors to Clubhouse 3 if the weather becomes unfavorable).

In class, dancers learn traditional and modern hula, keeping their bodies and minds active. Dancers who enjoy performances often entertain throughout Leisure World and beyond. For questions regarding hula class and performances, call or text 562-338-1502.

Everyone is welcome to join—no prior dance experience needed, only a smile and willingness. Lately, dancers and instructor Jojo Weingart are feeling the holiday spirit as they begin Christmas hula routines and preparing for several special performances this season.

New hula “The Prayer” will be performed on the Sunday of Thanksgiving week at Shepherd Church on Seal Beach Boulevard during the 9 a.m. service. Dancers are also practicing “Jingle Bells”—a special request—for the residents of Brookdale Assisted Living in Valley View. “Jingle Bells” involves audience-participation so everyone there can join in the fun.

Hui O Hula remembers longtime Leisure World resident Mary Hino of Mutual 7, who lived to be 98 and was dearly loved by her friends and neighbors. They gathered recently for a heartfelt sendoff to celebrate her life. Hino, a faithful and gentle soul, had lived in Leisure World for more than 20 years near her close friend and fellow hula dancer Kaye Huff. Raised by her beloved big brother and interned during the war, Hino was Hui O hula’s greatest fan. Her grace and kindness will always be remembered.

—Hui O Hula

Hula dancers Susie Cucci (l-r), Kaye Huff, and Saeko Maruya honored late resident Mary Hino with "The Prayer" and "I'll Remember You." The touching tribute moved both the dancers and the audience to tears.

Jojo Weingart