By Vanessa Wolf

Odds are good poke will be available at the fundraising event (although we don’t actually know this for certain.) Photo by Vanessa Wolf

Established in 1831 by the American Board of Commissioners of Foreign Missions, the 178-year-old Lahainaluna High School Boarding Program is facing the threat of permanent closure.

As a result, the Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunrise in conjunction with Kona Brewing Company, Pi Artisan Pizzeria, Shaun Saribay, Twyla Kukahiko, Chef Lyndon Honda of Laulima Events and Catering, Lahainaluna Foundation and the Lahainaluna Boarders Association are planning a fundraiser event to benefit the program.

This Saturday, March 28, the “Taste of Aloha” event is being held at the Lahaina Civic Center Amphitheatre from noon to 10 p.m.

The event features various food and retail vendors, a silent auction, Keiki Corner, cotton candy and shave ice, beer garden, and live music.

Scheduled performers include Maui Theater’s Burning Love and local favorite Ekolu.

One of the few public boarding schools in the nation and the oldest high school west of the Mississippi River, the “Taste of Aloha” fundraiser aims to raise $100K on its behalf.

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These funds support scholarships for graduating Lahainaluna seniors, provide dorm maintenance and finance the boarding school agriculture department. In addition, funds will help kick start student programs in renewable energy, agriculture and marine sciences.

Shaun Saribay, lead director and coordinator for “Taste of Aloha,” stated “Lahaina Town has supported me throughout the years with my MMA career as a fighter, coach and promoter. It is important that I give back something to the community, to Lahaina Town.”

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door for adults and $5 advance/$10 at the door for kids. Little ones five and under are free.

Wary of the internet? Tickets can also be purchased at Pi Artisan Pizzeria, Poi by the Pound, 808 plates, and Mid Pacific Tattoo Lahaina.

Individuals or businesses interested in sponsorship or providing other assistance are encouraged to click here.