News Source: East Oahu Sun
Article Written by: Hawkins Biggins

On Friday December 11th, 2009 the Hawai’I Kai Chamber of Commerce (HIKAICOC) held their 3rd annual Gala. It was a beautiful setting as people spread their holiday spirit while they mingled amidst sparkling holiday lights, Champagne, pupus, music by Kaleo and an auction by Howard at the Hawai’i Kai Retirement & Assisted Living Community on Kawaihae Street. This holiday season, the HIKAICOC wants to wish everyone “Mele Kalikimaka & Hou’oli Makahiki Hou!”

Delorese Gregoire, one of the founding members of the HIKAICOC and the founding director of Winners’ Camp for Teenagers at Hawai’i Leadership Academy, enthusiastically greeted guests as they arrived. She noted that, “I am happy to see the HIKAICOC flourish, after a rough start the organization keeps getting better and better.” Partially due to her dedication and hard work. Delorese wanted to remind people that being a member will strengthen your business. She is especially proud of the role that the HIKAICOC gives in supporting the Independence Day at Maunalua Bay Fireworks event, a fantastic showcase of the festivities!

A new member, Janayhe Self (Senior Account Executive of The Pacific Edge magazine) exclaimed, “I was floored by the HIKAICOC’s amount of energy, networking and willingness to help the community.” She especially loves the HIKAICOC’s devotion to others, “It is so inspirational to just give a moment of your time and realize the amount of respect that earns you.” When asked why someone should join, she said, “I realize how many people in this community need direction, medium and a voice and the HIKAICOC is able to give that!”

Lolly Elliott, a member of the board of the HIKAICOC and the Manager of the Hawai’i Kai Retirement Assisted Living Community said, “I joined because of the July 4th fireworks, my residents love watching them!” She emphasized that it is important as local business owners to be a part of the community. Proof of that is the continued growth of the HIKAICOC into over 70 members. Lolly was in the spirit of the event as she reiterated the theme of the Gala: “Together We Achieve So Much More!” She is looking forward to an exciting year ahead.

Some of the activities that the HIKAICOC are involved in are: four networking luncheons at Outback Steakhouse, two educational seminars, a fundraising event for Kaiser High School, Independence Day at Maunalua Bay Fireworks and the End-Of-Year Gala event. Be inspired and join the HIKAICOC!