2016

The East Hawaii Cultural Center has been at the beating heart of our community culture on the Big Island for four decades. Run largely by volunteers, under the leadership of whoever had time and passion, the Center has offered a venue for a host of cultural groups, artists, theater and music ensembles, and workshops. When the current Board Chairman asked me to take over running the venue a month ago, I was excited and daunted.

Last Friday evening the The Hilo Urb Farm at EHCC celebrated its first anniversary with a reception in the garden followed by a Vegan dinner (save for the poke) upstairs in the EHCC cafe. There was a great turnout with live music, and lots to eat. Even vegan Laulau! There was also a silent auction which along with other donations, raised $850. Another one is planned for next year! Contact the Hilo Urb Farm if you’re interested in volunteering.

In a moving ceremony on February 18, 2022, a new bronze sculpture that graces the front of EHCC was dedicated to scholar, cultural leader and retired kumu hula Dr. Pualani Kanahele Kanaka’ole. The sculpture, created by artist Michael Shewmaker, was given the name “Anahā” (Reflection) by Dr. Kanaka’ole. Her family members honored the sculpture with traditional hula and a chant, and Dr. Kanaka’ole presented insights into the nuances of “Anahā,” explaining that it means “the reflection of light, not shadow” and it implies progression, which she compared to the work that EHCC undertakes.