Hui O Hula

Hui O Hula offers free hula lessons every Tuesday at 1 p.m. in the Clubhouse 6 upstairs Mirror Room; and every Thursday at 1 p.m. at the Optum Health Care Center. For more information call or text 562-338-1502.

The group extends its thanks to the Golden Age Foundation, its president Anna Derby, and the performers and audience at the July 18 Multicultural Festival in the Amphitheater.

Hui O Hula began its presentation with “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and “God Bless America” before continuing with “Green Rose Hula,” “Haleakalā Hula” and “Nani Wai’ale’ale.”

During “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” friends and members of other LW cultural groups joined the hula dancers onstage, wearing traditional clothing and waving American flags. Jasmin Elisha and Nahid Partovi represented their Persian heritage, while Lonnie Loc Ton wore a Vietnamese áo dài. Maria Wong and tai chi instructor Melody Tseng appeared in Chinese clothing, and Yong honored his Korean heritage. Harry Varnas represented the American cowboy, accompanied by his son Robert, who honored his Danish background. Ren Villanueva joined fellow members of the Filipino Association of Leisure World in singing “God Bless America.”

The presentation also honored inspiring members of the community. Leona Hasegawa joined the opening number at 102 years young. The longtime dancer of Japanese heritage appeared with her devoted Filipina caregiver. Nora Fredlund, originally from Peru, continues to perform while courageously facing serious health challenges. Her hula sister, Susie Saraf, who is of Greek descent, lovingly helped bring her to center stage.

Former LW bus driver Pam Bartleson, now facing an aggressive disease, was also welcomed on stage with help from her sons, Justin and Ryan, and received an enthusiastic response.

—Jojo Weingart

Hui O Hula dancers waited at the back of the Amphitheater, ready to perform at the Golden Age Foundation's Multicultural Festival. At right, Jasmin Elisha and Nahid Partovi represented their Persian heritage during "You're a Grand Old Flag."

Jojo Weingart