(Honolulu-AP) -- Less than two weeks before its scheduled unveiling, a 200-pound bronze bust of the late Israel Kamakawiwoole is still in a California foundry while efforts continue to raise thousands still needed to pay the sculptor and cover other costs.
The dedication for the sculpture is set for September 20th at the Waianae Neighborhood Community Center.
City Councilman Mike Gabbard is leading an effort to raise 15-thousand dollars for the sculptor and five-thousand dollars for a pedestal and plaque.
Gabbard says he already has raised about 12-thousand dollars, and he's confident that Hawaii fans of ``Bruddah Iz'' will come through to cover the rest.
Iz, who died in 1997 at age 38, gained international fame with his rendition of ``Over the Rainbow'' featured on his 1993 C-D ``Facing Future,'' which achieved gold status last year.
