THE LEFT LANE
Korean-American writers celebrated

Advertiser Staff and News Services

The collection features essays, poetry and prose by editors Nora Okja Keller, Brenda Kwon, Sun Namkung, Gary Pak and Cathy Song, as well as more than 25 others, among them novelist Chris McKinney.

Elaine Kim, professor of Asian American studies at the University of California-Berkeley, says of the book: "We find characters and experiences that are unique both in Hawai'i and among Korean Americans. This collection of century-spanning stories is a mirthful and savory celebration of the Korean centennial."

The book in stores now. Information: 626-1481; www.bambooridge.com.

Arts, culture are focus of festival on Maui

Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom will perform at Maui arts festival. Advertiser library photo

The event offers the opportunity to interact with artisans and Hawaiian cultural practitioners, attend lectures on Hawaiian cultural practices and participate in art-making, from carving a Hawaiian nose flute to weaving a basket.

This year's theme is "Na Wahine Kau I Ka Hano" ("Women Placed In Honor"). The festival opens with a performance at 7 p.m. tonight of "Na Wahine Wiwo'ole" ("Fearless Women"), a hula presentation by Halau Hula Ka Makani Kili O'opu.

Events include a lavish lu'au tomorrow with entertainment by Mahi Beamer and Nina Keli'iwahamana; a contemporary Hawaiian music concert Saturday featuring Henry Kapono, Kekuhi, Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom and Ernie Cruz Jr.; and an Easter brunch and egg hunt on Sunday morning.

One interesting program note: Tomorrow evening at 9:30, Gilliom will return to the Anuenue Room at the Ritz Carlton for an evening of jazz — she performed there for years before turning to Hawaiian music.

For ticket information and reservations, call (808) 669-6200 or (800) 262-8440; or see www.celebrationofthearts.org.

Fishpond's story told

The documentary by award-winning filmmakers Lahilahi Verschuur and Michael Powell originally was screened at the 2000 Hawai'i International Film Festival.

It will be re-broadcast on NATV at 10 p.m. Tuesday, 7 p.m. Wednesday and 4:30 p.m. April 24.