MEDIA RELEASE

The time-honored skill of weaving with pandanus leaves is being showcased at the 16th Lauhala Conference, which runs through Sept. 11 at the Keauhou Beach Resort.

The event offers lauhala weaving workshops with top Hawaii instructors in a friendly, sharing format. The conference is offered by Ka Ulu Lauhala O Kona, a non-profit benevolent organization with the mission to perpetuate, preserve and ensure the growth of the traditional art of lauhala weaving.

Known for her signature lauhala hats, Aunty Elizabeth Maluihi Lee, of Kona, is founder of the event and will again be offering instruction this year.

Lee recently was recognized by the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce with a prestigious 2011 Pualu Culture and Heritage Award. The award taps an individual or organization that has exhibited, through actions, practices that promote island traditions and preserves our multi-cultural heritage.

Lee was cited for her Ka Ulu Lauhala O Kona and how she shares knowledge of weaving “in her own caring and nurturing way.” In Hawaiian, pualu means “to work together.”

The workshop offers six different sessions: Beginners, Intermediate I and II, Advanced I and II, and Specialties. Students will make certain things in each workshop. The workshop closes Saturday with a buffet dinner, craft fair and fashion show.

For event details, visit http://sites.google.com/site/kalululauhalaokona

Elizabeth Lee