BYU–Hawaii students and local residents gathered at the Seven Brothers in the Kahuku Sugar Mill to share their musical talents, friendship, and food at an open mic event on Nov. 7.
Max Hannemann, a former BYUH student and Seven Brothers employee, explained how open mic nights are a way to remind students that Seven Brothers has two locations with different options.
Hannemann said, “Being a former student myself, I know there isn’t a lot going on at night in Laie. This is our way to provide good, clean fun and provide a place for students to gather together, relax, and enjoy themselves.”
Katelynne Halliday, a junior art major from Utah, said, “Honestly, I just love listening to music. I am so glad Seven Brothers does these.
“When I come to events like these, I learn so much about people and who they are. Even when they play covers you learn a lot about them.
Jared Wilcox, a junior from California majoring in hospitality tourism management, was the first to step up to sing. He said after his performance, “I love playing music and singing. I have played the guitar since I was 12 and been singing for the last six years. I used to do it a ton in high school. I get nervous but it’s not scary to me anymore.
Justin Harper, a BYUH alumnus and former Seven Brothers employee, built up the nerve to sing his favorite song by Jack Johnson called “Angel,” which he dedicated to his wife.
Harper explained how his job at Seven Brothers was pivotal for him while he was a student at BYUH. “I couldn’t wait to get back on island and come and see what was new and to eat some of my favorite food again. Here, everyone is family.”
Ana Mendoza, a senior majoring in psychology from California, attended the event and said, “I feel like listening to live music helps me to relax from all that I have going on at school. It refreshes me and prepares me for a new week.”
“Good music, good friends, and good vibes,” said Mendoza as she explained what drew her out to Seven Brothers.
Shez Hannemann, a sophomore from Laie majoring in business and Max’s brother, said, “My family loves the community of Laie, and we relish in opportunities such as tonight to bring the students and the community together to build one ohana. At Seven Brothers it’s more than a meal.”