Dole Plantation May 9 Luau To Benefit Waialua Robotics

Waialua High School’s robotics team is selling tickets to its sixth annual Dole Plantation Benefit Luau. All proceeds from the May 9 event will support the team and its travel to competitions across the nation.

“Waialua Robotics embodies the values of team-work, commitment and responsibility,” said Mike Moon, director of operations for Dole Plantation. “As a result, this is an award-winning program that has become a pathway to a bright future for kids from this community.”

The Waialua team was Hawaii’s first robotics-related program and has racked up numerous regional and national victories, including the 2013 Utah and Indiana regional championships.

Even with its success, however, the group continues to have a hard time maintaining the necessary funding. It’s what makes this one so important.

“The Dole Plantation fundraiser is one of the most important events that our team participates in,” said Glenn Lee, a Leilehua High School teacher and Waialua Robotics mentor.

“Without the generous support that we receive from the luau, our team would not be able to attend FIRST Robotics competitions, which allow our students the opportunity to participate in science, technology, engineering and math-related (STEM) activities.”

The Dole benefit features Hawaiian food, a silent auction, entertainment by ManoaDNA, and a 45-minute demonstration of robotic technology.

Tickets cost $40 and are available through April 30 at Dole Plantation.

Tickets also can be purchased from robotics team members or by calling Waialua High and Intermediate School at 637-8200. The luau runs from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.