Kauai-born and La Jolla-raised, professional surfer Emery Kealiikane Kauanui, Jr., loved nothing more than friends, family, good waves and good food — preferably all at the same time. This Memorial Day, on the third anniversary of his death at age 24 following a violent beating in 2007, Emery’s family invites the entire community to come together for a large-scale luau at Windansea Beach to celebrate his life and the love, or aloha, that has been spread in his memory. According to his mother, Cindy, the all-day event will feature “all of Emery’s favorite things,” which include surfing, ukulele, hula dancing, and Hawaiian barbeque. More than 300 ukulele players from various clubs throughout San Diego are expected to play in a circle and attempt a Guinness World Record for the largest event of its kind, Kauanui said. The event will also strive for another record with its “Wiki Wacky Ride Contest” where all participants will “ride the funniest wave” while dressed in aloha attire that may include leis, grass skirts, or Hawaiian-print shirts. The winner of the contest will receive a 4-foot professionally carved tiki statue. Emery’s brother, Nigel, an award-winning musician, will also perform. His other brother, Caleb, will spraypaint a large backdrop mural. Musician King Kukulele will serve as an announcer for the event. Guests will also be able to purchase raffle tickets for a slew of prizes that include a free round-trip flight to Hawaii, a five-night stay at the Royal Lahaina Resort on Maui and gift certificates for restaurants, apparel and spa certificates. In the evening, guests may purchase 8-inch balsa-wood surfboards imprinted with the Hawaiian Islands, and topped with tea lights for a candlelight ceremony on the beach. “Everyone can light up a candle for someone they love or have lost,” Kauanui said. “It’s very much a Hawaiian Memorial Day tradition.” Other fundraising opportunities include a limited-edition memorial T-shirt that includes a photo of the historic paddle-out event that was held after Emery Kauanui’s death. All proceeds will benefit the Emery Kealiikane Kauanui, Jr. fund and will help young surfers achieve their dreams, according to Cindy. “I just have a great vision of people having a wonderful time and spreading the aloha,” Cindy said. “We want to everyone to get to know and love their neighbors so that they’ll all look out for each other in the future.”