Ke Alaka'i- June 2019

J U N E 2 0 1 9 ¡ Vo l u m e 1 2 3 : I s s u e 2

THE LEADER

Men’s Issue

Page 14 Gunstock Ranch strives to restore indigenous plants

Page 30 Four long-time BYUH professors to retire

Page 52 Students act in upcoming Book of Mormon videos

JUNE 2019 • VOLUME 123 • ISSUE 2

ADVISOR

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

LeeAnn Lambert

Brooklyn Redd

MULTIMEDIA JOURNALISTS

COPY EDITORS

Mackenzie Beaver Tomson Cheang Elijah Hadley Esther Insigne Will Krueger Haeley van der Werf Emi Wainwright J. Eston Dunn Alyssa Odom Anel Canto Taffie Kwok

Dani Castro Bruno Maynez Noah Shoaf

PHOTOGRAPHERS

VIDEOGRAPHERS

Diandra Mongan Shannon Crowley ART & GRAPHICS

Anuhea Chen Brad Carbine Milani Ho ART DIRECTOR

Lynne Hardy

Chad Hsieh Ho Yin Li Victor Olesen

MANAGING EDITOR

NEWS CENTER

CONTACT

BOX 1920 BYUH LAIE, HI 96762 PRINTER

Pr int Ser vices Editorial, photo submissions & distribution inquiries: k e a l a k a i @ by u h . e d u .

To s u b s c r i b e t o t h e R S S F E E D or to view additional ar ticles,go to k e a l a k a i . by u h . e d u

Emily Hancock

Email: kealakai@byuh.edu Phone: (808) 675-3694 Fax: (808) 675-3491 Office: BYU–Hawaii Aloha Center 134 ON THE COVER:

Fa’alenuu Akeripa (Nu’u) went from playing professional rugby to becoming a full-time student and father. He and his wife said that coming to BYU–Hawaii and becoming parents has changed their lives dramatically. Photo by Victor Olesen

ABO UT US The Ke Alaka‘i began publishing the same year the university, then called Church College of Hawaii, opened. It has continued printing for more than 60 years. The name means “the leader” in Hawaiian. It began as a monthly newsletter, evolved into a weekly newspaper, then a weekly magazine, and is now a monthly news magazine with a website and a social media presence. Today a staff of about 25 students works to provide information for BYU–Hawaii’s campus ohana and Laie’s community. © 2019 Ke Alaka‘i BYU–Hawaii All Rights Reserved 2

KE ALAK A ‘I

Armando Alvarez said of this photo, “Going outside, getting in the sun, hopping up and down makes me happy. That’s why I do it.”

Taken by Andrada Gadaniov at Dixie Rock, St. George, Utah.

Share your photo with us and we may feature it in our next issue. E-mail us your high-resolution photo with a caption at kealakai@byuh.edu

F O L LO W U S AR O U ND THE WE B

KE A LA KA I.BYUH.EDU

JUNE 2019

3

Contents June 08

Ask the Professional with Brent Yergensen

10

Siblings from Korea inspired to attend BYU–Hawaii

13

Army conservationists strive to preserve Hawaii’s ecosystem

14

Gunstock Ranch plants native trees to restore forest

17

Students from Pohnpei share their culture

On the cover Fatherhood: A balancing act Former professional rugby player Fa’alenuu Akeripa manages school, faith, and family

4

KE ALAK A ‘I

Highlights Led by fate

Leaving a legacy

Siblings from Korea explain how they came to BYUH as a result of a vacation to Hawaii

Alumni and Career Services Director Mark Macdonald is leaving BYUH pursue doctorate

10

26

38

56

Farmer to CEO

2019 Youth Trek

BYUH senior and CEO of Rice Up Elvin Laceda shares his plans for the future

Youth from Laie, Hau’ula, Lana’i, Maui, and Moloka’i gather to learn about pioneer ancestors

18

Spring Semester graduation speaker Michelle Lung Chan

20

Preparing for hurricane season

24

Fa’alenuu Akeripa balances school and fatherhood

26

Mark Macdonald to pursue doctorate in California

29

BYU basketball star returns to the NBA

30

Four long-time BYUH professors retire

34

Freshman Rahul Mungamuri shares story of faith

36

New hale dad is former sumo wrestler

38

Elvin Laceda hopes to become president of the Philippines

40

BYUH alumnus creates program to help trauma

42

Students and fans remember Stan Lee

46

Alumnus and actor Cody Easterbrook

50

The Addiction Recovery Program

52

Students act in Book of Mormon videos

54

Fatherhood and the priesthood

56

Local youth participate in Trek

Campus Comment:

What’s the best advice you have received from your dad?

Sunny Wong, a junior from Malaysia

majoring in business management, said, “My father always tells me to live by my word. Never break a commitment or promise. You should always do what you say you will do.”

Louisette Waiane, a senior from

Vanuatu majoring in education, said, “My father told me he is not going to be present during my college life, but what I can do is pray to the Lord about anything and be faithful.”

Kim Comenta, a senior from the

Philippines majoring in human resources, said, “The best advice I got from him is to study well. It opens the doors to many opportunities. I will cherish this for the rest of my life because I am able to study here at BYU– Hawaii, connect with people, especially professors, and at the same time balance work, life and church callings.”

EJ Cheuk, a freshman from Hong

Kong majoring in psychology, said, “My dad taught me to be a kind person and to treat other people kindly so that you receive the same treatment from others.”

JUNE 2019

5

Letter from the copy editors My father wanted his kids to learn and be curious about the world. Growing up, he would show us classic films, read to us works by Ernest Hemingway, or talk about history. My father is dedicated to his family and showed it through hard work, passion for learning, and cooking.

When the good or bad times rolled, he expressed his faith by putting his trust in God. Being aware of my mother’s need for sleep and a break from the kids, he would take us out on Saturday morning drives. He would talk about current events or philosophy. The balancing act of his life is mirrored in similar stories found in this issue about fathers here at BYU–Hawaii (page 24). Inspiring his children to learn both inside and outside of school, he would take us on trips to museums, the Spanish Missions in California, or Sequoia National Park. Discovering hidden gems while travelling can be found in this issue as well (page 10). I hope current and aspiring fathers will learn and receive insight from this month’s issue.

Bruno Maynez - Copy Editor Recently, I got engaged to my favorite person in the world, and now that we are preparing to begin a new part of our lives together, I’ve been pondering a lot about the future and our family.

I find myself wondering how to best prepare myself for fatherhood. How can I rely on Heavenly Father to help me? Where do I find wisdom when I need it? As a member of the Church, I know the gospel is a great answer, but who I want to acknowledge are the fathers who strive to make an impact on our lives. Whether a father figure is one made by blood or by bond, it is a calling that requires faith, love, patience, and when you have kids… more of everything. On campus, we have many great examples of wisdom from our retiring professors: Mark James, Randal Allred, Lenard Huff, and Viliami Toluta’u (page 30), and I’m confident you’ll learn the importance of honoring the priesthood as it prepares men for fatherhood (page 54).

Dani Castro - Copy Editor

Male empowerment evokes an image of dominance and strength. We see this image personified

by Stan Lee, the father of superheroes, (page 42) Although depictions of heroism and vigor are popular definitions of male empowerment, I find this is not the full picture. Strong men do not necessarily need a cape. I think about my father and how he worked from dawn to dusk to build a house for my family. I remember my Scout leader who used compassion instead of aggression to help me feel accepted. The media defines masculinity in a particular light, but we have individuals like Elvin Laceda (page 38) who bring more light on what it means to be a man.

Noah Shoaf - Copy Editor

6

KE ALAK A ‘I

JUNE 2019

7

Campus and Community

ASK THE PROFESSIONAL

Being a parent is the most unselfish thing someone can do, according to Brent Yergensen. Photo by Chad Hsieh

Brent Yergensen

BY HAELEY VAN DER WERF

Brent Yergensen is an associate Communications professor.

He has six children and is seen as a father figure to students on campus.

8

KE ALAK A ‘I

What are some general characteristics of a good father?

“A characteristic that makes someone a good father is patience. A father is very patient with teenagers who are frustrated with their lives, with small children who jump on you.You also have to be okay with your space not being your own. I wake up every morning with, if not one, two or three kids in my bed.You have to be okay with being exhausted.You have to be okay with not necessarily having your own hobbies. This extends to motherhood as well. Being a parent is the most unselfish thing someone can do. I really believe that.”

What in your life prepared you to become a father?

“My parents were parents of eight. I’m seven of eight. I grew up in a big family. I was used to this same thing of lots of kids being around. I’ve always been used to this large family setting. My older siblings were married and having kids, so I was used to having little kids around the house. That prepared me more than anything, growing up in a big family.

“I got my patriarchal blessing when I was 16 years old. We don’t quote our patriarchal blessing, but it hinted to me the significance of having a family. So, from the time I was 16 years old, the day I became a priest in the Aaronic priesthood, I wanted to have kids.

From that time, to the time I went on my mission, and after when I was looking for any girl who would be willing to date me, I knew I wanted to have kids.”

How can men find a balance between work, church callings, and having a family?

“It’s hard to say anything other than the Lord makes up the difference....This is a hard piece of advice, but don’t be married to your hobbies. This is my opinion: Your hobbies were for when you were younger, before you got married and before you had kids. In these formidable years with your children, your hobbies don’t matter … I’m not saying don’t do hobbies. The marriage to them, the excessive competitiveness, or the gym rat are big mistakes.

“Your family is the highest priority in your life.

If you put your family first, worthiness follows. From there you will be worthy to serve. If you're worthy, everything that happens within your family, church life and professionally will work out.

“Your time should be in your house with your wife and children. If you’re going to leave, take your wife and children with you. If you have a hobby, take your wife and children with you ... Seek to spend every minute with your wife and children.”

Yergensen with his wife and six children. Photo courtesy of Brent Yergensen

How can men be a father figure to those around them?

“The key quality to good fatherhood is patience.

People lose trust in someone who is verbally aggressive or a yeller. We’ve all been around someone who has the shortest temper you can imagine.

We know they’re going to explode. Something I’ve learned as well to be an example is a very strong performance and sense of patience, even in frustration. My father is maybe the most patient person I know. I think any success I have as a father is from watching my dad. I don’t remember my father ever yelling.

“It really wraps around that. I think meekness and Christlike qualities are embedded within that. Another capacity is a sense of humor with people around us.

Young people have a strong appreciation for humor. As a bishop and as a Young Men’s president, I realized the importance of being humorous.”

How does life change once you become a dad?

Life changes in a lot of ways. So often, the answer is a loss of sleep and a loss of time. You feel a closer connection to your wife that you didn’t before.You got married, and you love each other, and you spend time together and all of those things. When you have a baby together and the baby is born, you need to be in the hospital.Your wife has been through so much. The connection you begin to feel with your wife takes on a new reality as soon as you have a baby.

“This also connects to anyone who adopts. It is the same situation. When that baby, young child, or older child comes in and becomes a part of your home, the reality of how you feel with your spouse becomes much deeper. When you become a father, you are drawn into this sense of responsibility. This responsibility is sacred … I want to emphasize, of all things, when you become a father there is a closeness to your wife you should feel.

“You also realize things such as you learn to love someone more than you love yourself.You already love your spouse more than yourself, but you really learn what it means to love someone more than yourself. Let me give you an example. Five years ago, as a family, we decided to go on a cruise … My 4-year-old, Ammon, had a tendency to wander off. I was so worried in the four or five days we were on the boat he was going to get away and start climbing the railing and plunge [off the boat].

“I didn’t even want to go near the edge. I didn’t want my kids to go near the edge. I remember I made a decision. I’m so scared of heights I wouldn’t even go near it. The whole cruise I was terrified Ammon was going to fall. I remember laying in bed and thinking I need to resolve within myself, if he falls, I needed to be ready to jump. He would drown. We wouldn’t be able to get to him.

“There was something more internal in my mind and heart. I thought, ‘I wouldn’t even think about it.

I won’t ponder the height. I won’t ponder the injury to me from 80 feet. I will just go.’ I felt inside of me, as I thought about this so deeply, I would jump.

I had decided right then, if my 4-year-old boy with his adventurous spirit falls, I’m going to jump … My biggest fear, heights, I overcame because of the fear of loss and worry about my little boy.”

How does having priesthood power affect fatherhood?

The priesthood effects fatherhood as it encourages gentleness and charity toward children.

This is manifest in how a father will counsel his family.

Most important, it gives a father discernment in how to help his children. In a notable way, this is manifest in the specifics that can be declared in priesthood blessings for children.

JUNE 2019

9

An inspired visit Siblings from Korea share how a vacation to Hawaii helped them stumble upon BYU–Hawaii and changed their lives

BY WILL KRUEGER

The Hwang siblings joined the Church after visiting Hawaii and learning about BYUH. Photo by Chad Hsieh 10

KE ALAK A ‘I

Joo Young and Seon Woong Hwang said the motto of the university impressed them and helped them decide to get baptized. Photo courtesy of the Hwang family

The Hwang family was vacationing in Hawaii.

They were enjoying their trip and on their second to last day, they happened to be on the North Shore and met BYU–Hawaii students in Foodland. The students told them about the university and the Hwangs decided to visit.

Joo Young Hwang, a freshman majoring in supply chain and her brother, Seon Woong Hwang, a freshman majoring in biology, are from South Korea. They said their trip resulted in them joining the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a year later becoming students at the school.

Joo Young said, “My brother wasn’t planning to attend any university. I was planning to go to a university in Korea. We didn’t even know about the Church. After visiting here, everything changed. I feel like God led us here and guided us along the entire way.”

According to Seon Woong, “We ended up here at BYUH by complete chance, or fate.

We came to Hawaii in Feb. 2018 for a family trip, and the second to last day of our trip, we visited the North Shore as a family.

“We knew the existence of Jesus Christ and the love that he has for us and desired to know more about what we learned in Hawaii.”

Photo by Russell Tanoue, Provided by Cody

“We went to Foodland and happened to meet two female students there. We didn’t know of the existence of this school so were curious that a university was on the North Shore. They told us the location of BYUH, and we decided to take a look shortly after.”

According to Seon Woong, his family was looking around the campus and ended up in the Aloha Center. They were trying to get information about the school from the help desk.

He said, “We couldn’t speak very good English at that time, but luckily there was a

Korean student there, Seong-min Jo, who was able to help us and talk with my family and I.” Seong-min Jo, a junior majoring in marketing from South Korea, said of meeting the Hwang’s, “I don’t usually go to the Aloha Center, but I felt like I should be there at that time. We happened to meet. They talked with me because I looked Korean. It was totally lucky.” Joo Young continued, “My family and I ended up talking with her for about seven hours, about the university and life here as a student in Hawaii, such as majors at the school and other things.

JUNE 2019

11

“ We returned the next day to talk again with her, but this was to discuss the Church.

We spent several hours talking to her about the Church and to learn more about it.”

First impressions of BYUH Seon Woong remarked, “When I first entered into the school, I was so impressed by seeing all the different flags. I also saw the wall at the front of the school that had words inscribed that really impressed me. That sentence, ‘Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve,’ really inspired me.”

Continuing, Seon Weong shared a distinct impression he had, “People may not believe me, but I also could see an illusion of Jesus Christ above BYUH. I couldn’t see him literally, but I could feel him and his presence and that this school was blessed and is taken care of by the Lord.”

The standards and cleanliness of the school left lasting impressions to the Hwang family. “We actually saw another university in Honolulu while we were on vacation. I remember smelling alcohol, marijuana and being very disappointed that a university was like that. After learning about BYUH and the

standards here, it left us with such a good impression. My parents were really impressed by that.”

According to Seon Woong, at the conclusion of the family’s vacation, the siblings said they excitedly returned to Korea and began looking for the Church. “We were both born Catholic. We even received Catholic names. We knew the existence of Jesus Christ and the love that he has for us and desired to know more about what we learned in Hawaii.”

Conversion to the Gospel Looking for the Church online, Seon Woong found a phone number and called right away. He talked with someone and was able to find a church to attend in Korea and went as soon as they could.

Seon Woong was baptized on May 6, 2018, less than three months after returning from Hawaii. He baptized his sister, Joo Young, on July 29, 2018.Young said she took a little longer than her brother because she was very busy with school and also wanted him to baptize her.

Hwang’s parents were not baptized, but their children said they are supportive. Seon

Woong shared he often shares the gospel with them and tries to teach them about the Church.

After his compulsory military service, Seon Woong hopes to serve a mission. Joo Young added she has recently considered serving a mission, and they have both read Preach My Gospel together.

Seon Woong said he attended institute in Korea for about a year and then went on to apply to attend BYUH with his sister.

Attending BYUH According to Seon Woong, the opportunities offered by the school have blessed him immensely.

“I am really happy to be a BYU-Hawaii student. I work with SWAT, so I work on the farm with animals and with tools all day. I sometimes feel really tired, but I feel happy because I see the temple when I work. I like to read from the Gospel Library on my phone during my breaks.”

Seon Woong’s roommate, Rei Hattori, a freshman from Japan majoring in business management, said, “I feel like God led him here. He has a really interesting experience and coming here will have a really good effect on his family.”

Hattori continued, “I have learned a lot from my roommate. He already knows so much about the Church considering he’s so new to it.

It’s inspiring. He is a fun and friendly guy and very interested in learning.”

Joo Young shared her experience at BYUH, “At first, I just wanted to focus on studying. But I have made so many friends and I love to hang out with [them]. They help me with my goals and to enjoy myself here and with school life.

“As a recent convert, religion classes have been a little bit harder to understand, but they have been very helpful for me to understand the Church more.”

The Hwangs said their parents have been happy and supportive of their children’s decisions. “They feel relieved about the standards of the school and know that we are taught well here in good environment.”

While the brother and sister from South Korea joined the Church, their parents have not but they said their parents are supportive of them. Photo courtesy of the Hwang family.

12

KE ALAK A ‘I

Paul Smith, a biologist with the Oahu Army Natural Resources program, shows some of the plants they are working to propagate. Photos by J. Eston Dunn

Conserving local ecosystems

BY J. ESTON DUNN

Army conservationists explain vital but overlooked role of preserving Oahu's ecosystems Operating out of Schofield Barracks nestled the central valley of Oahu, the Oahu Army Natural Resources Program (OANRP) operates at the crossroads of cutting edge conservation and military, shared biologists and staff, to preserve Hawaii’s past, natural and military.

Soldiers, researchers and volunteers come together under the supervision of the OANRP staff to study, harvest and protect Hawaiian ecosystems that scientists say are some of the most threatened on earth.

“A lot of what we do is preserving the 120 endangered species on Army land,” explained Kapua Kawelo, Natural Resource manager for the U.S. Army Garrison in Hawaii.

The plants the OANRP works with are some of the rarest in the world and others thought to be extinct before being discovered

by OANRP workers, Kawelo continued.

“Most people don’t appreciate the resources the Army puts into preservation,” said OANRP Biologist Paul Smith. “It’s a lot of time and individuals working long days to pull this together.”

Inside the Seed Lab With more than 9 million seeds of native Hawaiian plants in storage, the seed lab sits as the crown jewel of the OANRP facility, said Kawelo.

“The primary purpose of the seed lab is to work as an ecological backup in case of a natural disaster like a flood or fire,” explained Kawelo. “Having this resource is vital to our ecological contingency plan.

“The idea behind the seed lab is you want to extend the life span of the plant as long as possible either through freezing or refrigeration as a backup.”

The process begins, Kawelo shared, as volunteers go out into Hawaiian jungles to harvest seeds, most importantly from the known 120 endangered species on Army land. Gathered seeds are then separated, processed and dried either with drying salts or mechanically.

Through years of experimentally testing, Kawelo continued, the OANRP has determined both the optimal moisture and temperature to store the seeds for maximum shelf life, some lasting as long as 20 years. Some seeds require liquid nitrogen deep freezes to stay healthy in storage. According to Kawelo, seeds are germinated on an as-needed basis either for testing to determine optimal storage conditions

or bolster wild population. Once germinated then they will be put in a simulation chamber to recreate temperature and light cycle, before eventually being moved out into the greenhouses.

When seed collections decline, more seeds are harvested and the cycle starts anew.

How to get involved Participation in conservation efforts of the OANRP are open to anyone at any level of commitment.

At the most basic level, Smith encouraged individuals to practice basic biosecurity. “Look at the landscape around you and how you influence that,” Smith explained.

“Check your boots. If you’re recreating in a different part of the island, clean your equipment and shoes. Educate yourself on invasive species and report sightings to proper sources.”

However, for more invested individuals, Smith continued, the OANRP is always looking for volunteers for work days and people and programs with science backgrounds to partner with them.

Interested individuals can visit the OANRP website to find out more, https:// oanrp.com/about/ JUNE 2019

13

The horse stables at Gunstock Ranch. Photos by Ho Yin Li

Gunstock's future

Reforestation and sharing real Hawaiian ranch life, says COO, are its goals

BY ELIJAH HADLEY Gunstock Ranch, a 900-acre ranch located less than two miles from the BYU–Hawaii campus, is planning big for its future. With help from conservation groups, Gunstock’s Chief Operating Officer said the ranch hopes to increase tourism and indigenous plant life while also promoting a lifestyle unique to the Hawaiian islands.

According to an article by Forbes which features the ranch, Gunstock Ranch is Oahu’s first legacy forest. Across several review sites for the island of Oahu, Gunstock is listed as No. 1. The ranch also received a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor. Lilia Tollefsen, a BYUH alumna, now serves as Gunstock’s COO. Before coming to Gunstock, Tollefsen 14

KE ALAK A ‘I

worked as a teacher at Kahuku Elementary and Laie Elementary, never straying far from her hometown of Laie. After deciding she wanted a job where she could be around her six children, Tollefsen decided to work at Gunstock for the owners, Kyndra and Greg Smith.

“I came here and started working with the Smiths. They allowed me to bring my kids and I was the extra hand they needed. They eventually put me in charge after I did the field trips, where we brought 3,000 kids to the ranch each summer. Eventually, they put me in charge of all the sales and marketing.”

Tollefsen described Gunstock as a horseback riding, horse and cattle ranch. She said, “We have been in operation for almost

50 years, and we’ve been doing the trail riding business since 2010. We do off-road tours, public vehicle tours, and planting tours, and have a petting zoo and Easter egg hunt.

“We specialize in small nature rides. That’s really our specialty. It’s how we stand out from everybody else. We take children as young as 2 on horseback rides, and we have the free petting zoo. Our goal is really to educate people about the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) lifestyle.

“We feel like being able to bring the children out allows us to expose them to this way of life. All of Greg and Kyndra’s five children rodeo and they all start out when they’re young.

The Smiths’ goal has been to let other children be a part of this lifestyle.”

Children as young as 2 years old can ride horses at Gunstock Ranch, says .

Tollefsen explained the importance of making children an integral part of the ranch experience. She said today it is hard to find a place in Hawaii where children are able to learn about and appreciate animals for a fair price.

“They get to be here with the animals, get to be out in nature, and get dirty. They’re able to be what kids should be.”

Patch of heaven In the past few years, one of Gunstock’s main ventures has been reforestation of native Hawaiian plant life.

Jaeden Schaefer, a senior marketing major from Canada, has been working through his class to help Gunstock with advertising. He expressed enthusiasm at the prospect of reforestation. “Of the 900 acres, 500 acres have been dedicated to reforestation. The ranch is starting with Milo trees, and about 3,000 trees have been planted at this point.

“Partnered with the Hawaiian Legacy Reforestation, they are provided the technology and the seedlings needed to plant these trees, which have been long-endangered.”

Tollefsen added, “Of the trees we’re trying to restore, only two of each were originally

“We specialize in small nature rides.

That’s really our specialty. It’s how we stand out from everybody else.” found. One was a Milo, and the other was a Noni. Only four native trees were in this entire ranch at the time. Everything else was invasive, so reforestation is a very daunting task. Can you imagine in 10 to 15 years, it’ll be a native forest all over again, and will be like nothing ever happened to the trees?

“Last year, we started doing native planting, where guests were able to plant a tree and dedicate it to a family member.

“We’re finding we also need to restore the soil. It’s going to be a very difficult task to accomplish. We allow tourists to plant one tree.

We feel it’s a way for people to give back to Hawaii instead of taking from the state. We’re trying to push a more responsible mindset of tourism.”

Concerning tourism in the state of Hawaii, Tollefsen said, “We at the ranch feel like tourism

needs to change. It’s not that we don’t want people to come, but we want them to have opportunities to give back to Hawaii. The money goes back to restoring the parts of Hawaii that are no longer here because we as a community haven’t taken good enough care of it.”

Tollefsen expressed hope visitors to Hawaii could be more responsible and less exploitative.

“Right now, the tourist mindset is to go to a foreign place for a vacation, take what you want and give nothing back. The ranch is getting a lot of press for this unique brand of tourism, but it still is really an uphill battle, getting people to change mindsets from the ground up.”

The future Edward Kam Wai Wong, a senior from Hong Kong majoring in marketing, said he is excited for Gunstock’s future growth.

JUNE 2019

15

Tourists can ride horses through the forest that encompasses the 900-acre ranch.

“It also provides an opportunity for students to work and to serve in the community.

My marketing class chose Gunstock Ranch to help with advertising and marketing. There’s a big benefit where social media is concerned.

We hope to help them get more followers so they can have more publicity and attract more tourists.

“Jaeden, my classmate, used his marketing strategies to get Gunstock over 1,300 followers on social media in the past 30 days. I was very glad we chose the ranch for our project.”

In regards to the future of the ranch, Tollefsen concluded, “I definitely see the ranch re-planting native Hawaiian trees as a way of us revitalizing Hawaiian culture...”

“The Hawaiian butterfly has also come back.You bring back the forests and oceans, and the animals might come back. It will be like colonization never happened. With Gunstock Ranch, my goal is to leave behind a better world for my children and to leave a lasting legacy that can be enjoyed by all.”

Gunstock Ranch is located at 56-250 Kamehameha Hwy, Kahuku, Hawaii.

16

KE ALAK A ‘I

Gunstock Ranch specialized in small nature rides.

Students from Pohnpei say people in their home country live off the land and don’t value education. Photo by Chad Hsieh

The garden of Micronesia

BY WILL KRUEGER

From Pohnpei, students share culture and challenges of being a student at BYUH When Megan Jonathan, a junior majoring in hospitality and tourism management, reveals she is from the island of Pohnpei, she said the usual reaction is questions of where the island is located. To give context she would say its located in Micronesia. According to her, most people do not know where Micronesia is. She said it is like her country is nonexistent.

According to the Encyclopedia Brittanica, Pohnpei is an island part of the Federated States of Micronesia in the western Pacific Ocean. It is known as the Garden of Micronesia due to heavy rainfall and fertile soil. The island is 129 square miles and home to more than 36,000 people.

According to Jonathan, there are four students from Pohnpei attending BYUH. Sharing similar feelings with Jonathan, Judie Welter, a freshman studying education from Pohnpei, said, “Most people I talk to have never even heard about Pohnpei before. I usually have to show people on a map. Nobody knows anything about my home and they think that I’m talking about the Pompeii in Italy.”

Kamaua Yamamoto, a freshman majoring in accounting from the Big Island, Hawaii, said she spent his entire mission on the island of Pohnpei. Similar to Welter,Yamamoto recognized people know little about Micronesia, let alone Pohnpei.

Life and culture in Pohnpei “Life on Pohnpei is easy,” according to Jonathan. “People just spend their lives there and are happy to live off the land.You don’t need money to live.

“Our culture defines who we are. Not much is known about it, but we do a lot. We have a lot of dancing and chanting. Also our culture cares a lot about sakau and the sakau ceremony. The sakau cup is on our flag.” Sakau is a drink similar to kava.

Regarding the culture,Yamamoto said, “[Most] people don’t know much about their culture. Kiribati is close to the culture of Pohnpei. The people of Pohnpei have culture, they have a great identity to them.”

Yamamoto shared the humble living conditions he observed while serving in Pohnpei. “[In] my first area, mostly everybody lived in huts. If you were a bit richer, you had a basic house made of cement.

“Most houses are made of wood, mangrove [with] leaves as a roof. In many parts of the island, people have to collect their own water. They get it from freshwater springs, pumps or rain water. Electricity [is] also scarce.

“Pohnpei is unique. Such loving people.

Everyone became my family. The culture is so respectful. Everyone bows for you....They are so respectful.”

Welter said the lifestyle in Pohnpei is simple. “The people in Pohnpei are very nice and friendly. We treat foreigners very nicely.

Most people don’t have jobs. They just live off

the land. They farm and grow their own crops and food. It’s very humble and easy living. It’s a real island life.”

Value of education Jonathan said the simple life in Pohnpei causes the people to have different values. She said, “Our parents and older people don’t see education as something that is important. They don’t think we need much education because we can just stay on the island and live the simple island life. I agree with them to some extent.”

However, Welter said she thinks obtaining a higher education is important. She said although people are not concerned about getting an education, attending school at BYUH gives her and other Pohnpeian students the opportunity to be exposed to other cultures.

They gain an education in a spiritual setting they can use to help Pohnpeian society.

Challenges of attending BYUH Jonathan shared, “The main challenge I face is sharing opinions. Americans and other cultures here are so free to share what they think and their opinions. In Pohnpeian culture, we are taught not to share opinions and thoughts freely because it’s considered rude.”

She said she had to adjust to that here.

Jonathan said her culture is interdependent and coming to BYUH has been challenging because people live independently here. Despite the change, she said she enjoys learning about other cultures and experiencing a new life.

JUNE 2019

17

Chan will graduate as summa cum laude.

Photo by Ho Yin Li

Fulfilling a life dream Graduation speaker says you can find joy while balancing classes, work and stress

BY ESTHER INSIGNE

18

KE ALAK A ‘I

The Spring 2019 Semester graduation speaker Ying Suet “Michelle” Chan, a senior from Hong Kong majoring in education, said words of encouragement from her professors and family helped her get beyond life’s stresses. She said their touching words taught her she could achieve her goals no matter how big or small.

Chan added she was inspired by a missionary in her home ward in Hong Kong who was the graduation speaker for the Fall 2013 Semester. She said she is happy to follow her example by speaking at graduation.

After hearing how she was chosen to be the graduation speaker, she described it as “my dream that has finally come true.”

Chan said she realized she needed to attend BYU–Hawaii after taking her high school public examination. However, she said her parents were initially not happy with her decision.

“My mom was still hoping that I would eventually transfer to other schools, but then I just told my mom, ‘One day, you will look back and be proud of the decision that I made today.’”

Chan said, “One year ago, she talked to me and said, ‘I’m really proud that [you went to BYUH].’”

Finding a balance One of the challenges Chan said she faced as a student was the struggle of maintaining a balance between her work and life. She said people saw work to be a burden, and it was a place where there was “no joy or fulfillment.”

However, Chan explained she learned people can find joy in everything they do.

“Through challenging myself, not only have I learned the limits of my stress level, but also I have figured out what type of drive and how much passion are required to be a teacher in the future.”

She said there were semesters where she juggled between being the president of the Hong Kong Club and TESOL Society, being an

online EIL teacher and a project manager while taking 18 credits per semester.

“Of course I felt tired, but God has helped me along the way as I kept His commandments.”

Her husband, Tsz Hei “Chris” Chan, a senior from Hong Kong studying business management, said his wife not only works hard but also works smart. “She does everything she can to achieve her goals, and even if she doesn’t know if she can make it, in the end, she will [reach her goals].”

Dr. Neil Anderson, a professor of TESOL, said Chan’s goals are high but attainable. “She’s going to have to work hard, but she has the tenacity, persistence and the vision to pursue those goals.”

Achieving success in different ways Growing up in Hong Kong, Chan explained schools there focused on examination results, which led to her feeling like she was not going to succeed.

At BYUH it was different, said Chan, as professors showed her everyone could succeed in various ways. “[Professors] help us know that there are different paths in life, and you can achieve whatever you want. A professor told me, ‘There is no comparison between the sun, the moon and the stars as they shine when it is their time,’” recalled Chan.

Anderson remarked, “One of the things that set Michelle apart from [other students] is that she is very proactive. She does not wait for someone to give her instructions, but she figures out the instructions and then goes the extra mile.”

Chan encouraged students to fully enjoy this island while they are here. She explained a lot of students at the university strive for good grades so they spend most of their time in the library. However, they should try to go out and explore Hawaii at the same time, Chan advised.

“Through challenging myself, not only have I learned the limits of my stress level, but also I have figured out what type of drive and how much passion are required to be a teacher in the future.”

She said she tries to finish all of her homework so on Saturday she can go to town.

On Sundays, Chan said she does not do any homework “to keep the Sabbath Day holy.”

“If they want to succeed, they need to keep the commandments, pay tithing and also keep the Sabbath Day holy. Also, [students need] to participate in different clubs. Don’t do something because it gives you extra credit. Do something because you want to learn more.”

JUNE 2019

19

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS

After Hurricane Lane's close call last year, officials warn get ready now

BY LEEANN LAMBERT

Gearing up for the 2019 hurricane season that began June 1, experts say people who live on the North Shore of Oahu should have a 14-to-21 day supply of food, water and basic necessities like prescriptions, personal hygiene products and anything they would need to be self-sufficient for as long as possible when a disaster happens. They added some kind of disaster - be it hurricane, tsunami, flood, earthquake or fire - will happen at some point.

“It’s not if it will hit, but when it will hit,” said Elder Paul Crookston, who is completing his missionary service at the Polynesian Cultural Center. He is an engineer and has experience in disaster management. “We are not trying to plant fear,” he added. “We want you to be prepared.”

With only one road, Kamehameha Highway, linking the North Shore area to Honolulu, when a disaster strikes, local emergency officials said state and county resources will be focused on where the biggest population of people are in Honolulu and getting ports, airports and hospitals up and running again.

20

KE ALAK A ‘I

Local leaders said being able to care of yourself and your family will be necessary on the North Shore, and by being personally prepared, it is also easier to help your neighbors. “We want to help each other get personally prepared so we can help others too,” said Elder Crookston, and “do what the Savior would do.”

Meeting in the Heber J. Grant Building on May 8, officials from BYU–Hawaii, the PCC, Hawaii Reserves Inc., the local Church stake presidents, local emergency officials and more gathered to discuss how well the existing local disaster plan worked when Hurricane Lane threatened to strike Oahu just one year ago in August of 2018. While officials said the local disaster plan worked well for Hurricane Lane, they will continue to work to improve it.

One of the major items discussed was the need for people who are trained as ham or amateur radio operators because it is likely phone lines will be down and satellite phones overwhelmed, therefore radio will be the best way to communicate and share information.

Officials also stressed families and friends select someone outside of Hawaii people can call to check in and find out if their loved ones are okay. They said families should also make plans about where to meet after a disaster if they are split up because not knowing what happened to family and friends makes a disaster even worse.

Leading the discussion was Elder Crookston. While he stressed personal preparation, he said it is important to look out for the elderly and people with special needs.

Even though last year Hurricane Lane didn’t make landfall in the Hawaiian Islands, as it churned across the Pacific Ocean it dropped more than 50 inches of rain on the Big Island damaging more than 150 homes, plus schools, businesses, and infrastructure costing more than $100 million to repair, reported Hawaii News Now. Firefighters rescued at least 39 people from rising floodwaters and torrential rains overwhelmed three sewage pump stations sending more than 9 million gallons of sewage in Hilo Bay, says HNN.

"It's not if it will hit, but when it will hit."

Experts say North Shore residents should have

a 14-to-21 day supply of

Food

Prescriptions

Water

Personal hygiene products Graphics by Milani Ho

On Maui, the high winds whipped three wildfires that spread quickly causing 300 people to evacuate and destroying more than 20 homes, reported HNN. Combined with 16 inches of rain on Maui, more than 45 utility poles needed to be replaced and roads were washed out by storm water and debris.

On Kauai, says HNN, one person reportedly died after jumping into a rain-swollen river to save a dog, and areas hit hard last April by historic flooding were again flooded by the deep tropical moisture left behind by Hurricane Lane. The Chicago Tribune reported Hurricane Lane was the No. 3 rainmaker from a tropical cyclone in the United States since 1950.

Elder Crookston said while Oahu was spared last year, hurricanes have struck the island in the past and likely will at some point in the future. Some of the hurricanes that have struck the Hawaiian Islands include: • Hurricane Nina – 1957 – It was a category 1 hurricane with winds and rains that caused damage on Kauai and Oahu even though it did not actually hit land.

• Hurricane Dot – 1959 – This was a category 4 hurricane that dropped to a category 1 as it passed over Kauai. The storm caused minor damage to Hawaii, Oahu and Kauai.

• Hurricane Iwa – 1982 – This category 1 hurricane caused the most damage on the Big Island but also Kauai at the cost of $250 million and caused one death. Oahu also suffered some damage.

• Hurricane Iniki – 1992 – This category 4 hurricane that arrived on Sept. 11 was the most devastating one to hit Hawaii, reports HNN. It came during an El Nino year when the Pacific Ocean water temperatures are higher than normal and wind shear lower.

Weather forecasters said on May 22 that 2019 is another El Nino year and predict five-to-eight tropical storms will pass by Hawaii between June 1 and Nov. 1. Hurricane Iniki had winds of 140 miles per hour, “killed six people and damaged more than 1,400 homes and 5,000 utility poles.

Twenty-two years later, Iniki remains one of the costliest hurricanes in the Eastern Pacific, causing nearly $2 billion in damage,” says HNN.

Just after Hurricane Lane passed by the Hawaiian Islands last August, Puerto Rico was hit by Hurricane Maria on Sept. 20 causing more than $100 billion in damage and claiming in the end more than 3,000 people’s lives.

Elder Crookston said most people died due to infection.

While hurricane-strength winds and rains can cause devastating damage, said Elder Crookston, the greatest damage and loss of life generally comes from ocean storm surge.

“Tidal surge is the deadliest part of a hurricane statistically. It pushes debris on land, and they become battering rams” crushing everything is in its path, he said.

BYUH officials said students also need to be prepared personally for up to 21 days including personal items, prescriptions and more. Food Services Director David Keala said the university has supplies on hand for two limited-calorie meals a day for all students for up to seven days. However, officials advise students to prepare themselves by putting together their own supplies.

JUNE 2019

21

22

KE ALAK A ‘I Graphics by Anuhea Chen

JUNE 2019

23

Men and Fathers

Nu’u Akeripa is pictured with his wife, Brittany, and his children, Lola and Kaisa. Photo by Victor Olesen

Fatherhood: A balancing act From professional rugby to family man at BYU–Hawaii, Fa'alenuu Akeripa says finding balance in life is done through God

BY WILL KRUEGER For Fa’alenuu Akeripa (Nu’u), married life as a student was easy to manage. Once he and his wife had children, he said they had to learn to manage their time and refocus their goals. Recognizing God’s hand in their accomplishments, Nu’u Akeripa said he has been able to see his perspective on life change because he became a father.

Expressing how he felt about being a father of two children while being a student, Nu'u Akeripa, a graduating senior double majoring in accounting and finance from Australia, said, “Going to school and having children has been very difficult, but it’s been a completely worthwhile experience. This experience has prepared us for our future. God has helped us along the entire way. It can be tough.You get stressed out, but it’s awesome. It’s all worth it.”

After playing professional rugby for the Penrith Panthers and returning home from serving his mission in the Australia Adelaide Mission, Nu'u 24

KE ALAK A ‘I

Akeripa felt he needed to get married and have children.

Becoming a husband, father and student Brittany Akeripa, a graduating senior majoring in accounting from New Zealand, described how she and her husband met and came to school at BYUH. “I first met Nu’u when I was working in Darwin and Nu’u was a missionary. Later, I was called on my mission to Sydney and served in his stake after he got home from his mission.

“After I finished my mission, he flew to New Zealand and we went on a date. A few weeks later we were engaged and a few months after, we married. A week after we got married we came to BYUH.” Brittany Akeripa said coming to BYUH was part of the Lord’s plan for the couple. She said, “He got accepted as a single student, then I applied to come here after we were engaged.

"We were fortunate enough to get into TVA. I still don’t know how it all happened, but it was definitely Heavenly Father’s will.”

Nu’u Akeripa said he and his wife did not plan on having children until after they finished with their education, but said they felt prompted to shortly after arriving at BYUH. “We were planning to have children after our education because we felt like it was going to be difficult.

“We arrived to BYUH in July 2015, my wife became pregnant. We had our first baby, a daughter [Lola] born on May 9, 2016. Our son [Kaisa] was born on June 1, 2018.”

Having kids and a new perspective Nu’u Akeripa said becoming a father has changed his and his wife’s lives dramatically. “The biggest change was our focus. When we got to Hawaii, we had all these different ideas of how we

were going to go through school. There are beaches here, we wanted to learn how to surf and do all that fun recreational stuff. None of that happened.”

According to Nu’u Akeripa, having children has changed the way he thinks and lives. ” It was a little easier to study when we didn’t have children, and after we had children, my whole perspective had to change. We used to be able to just eat whenever we wanted to. If I was in class, I could just go and get food after or whenever I felt like it. Now my perspective changed and I’m thinking about feeding my little child or if my children have been fed.

“We have to think about managing our time better. We became a lot better at organizing, planning and being focused. The decisions we make and the things we do is all for the family and for our children.”

Brittany Akeripa shared on how she admires her husband and how he supports their family. “He’s all about vision in the long run. If I feel like we can’t do something, he always reminds me we can and that it’s for our family and the future. He doesn’t really get stressed and he’s kind of the rock of our family.”

A balanced life through God Nu’u Akeripa said the key to finding balance in life is to focus on God. “Focus on centering your life on God and serving Him, and God will take care of you and your family.”

Brittany Akeripa said, “Nu’u is in the bishopric of our ward, he has a job with student leadership, and is a double major. Supporting each other and having a family gave us the motivation to push through the hard nights. I don’t know how we did it, but four years later we are graduating.”

She said having children has helped the couple to stay grounded and faithful. “We definitely needed the Lord. I don’t know how we would have done it without Him. We had opposite class schedules, some teachers allowed us to bring our daughter to class, one of us worked during day and the other worked night. We planned together and made a schedule so we could always take care of our children.”

Nu’u Akeripa said of finding balance, “Throughout our whole school life, we’ve had to juggle. There were times we had to miss class because our child was sick. Someone had to stay home. Or when one of us had a test and one had to stay with the kids. Other opportunities around school we haven’t been able to do because we taking care of our [kids].

“There have been a lot of sacrifices. Having children didn’t mean we couldn’t do the things

we wanted to do - we still go to the gym and do intramurals, but we just learned how to plan and organize better.”

Tom Biesinger, a sophomore majoring in biology from England and friend of the Akeripas, said, “I know Nu’u is a great student. With all that he does with his interests, job, calling, family and school, he’s very good at somehow finding balance.”

Life as a father According to Nu’u Akeripa, a rewarding aspect about being a father is coming home and hearing his daughter say, “I love you.” He said, “As simple as it sounds, hearing that makes all the hard work and effort worth it. It’s the best feeling being able to run around with my kids.”

Brittany Akeripa remarked on how becoming a dad has blessed her husband, “He helps our family to be more focused spiritually and on God. He loves his rugby, but having kids has helped him to focus on what’s more important. Kids have helped him to communicate better.”

Describing how her husband is as a father, she said, “As a dad, he’s a very get-the-job-done kind of guy. He shows his love by how he acts, by caring for us, pushing through the hard nights, going to work. That’s how he shows his love. He’s all about his family.”

Biesinger said of his friend, “If you ever see him with his kids, you’ll see how he embodies fatherhood. Nu’u and his wife, Britt, are always happy to spend time with their kids. He is very nice and talks to everyone. He’s great at relationships with people and does very well with his kids too.”

Nu'u Akeripa playing professional rugby for the Penrith Panthers. Photo provided by Fa’alenuu.

in helping take care of their children while having a good schedule with school and everything else.”

Along with educational assistance, Nu’u Akeripa said his wife supports him spiritually. “I’m a member of the bishopric in our ward, and every Sunday, I get up early and leave for church. My kids aren’t awake by the time I leave, so my wife gets the kids ready and prepared for church on her own each week. She does it all. She supports me in my calling. She does so much for me.

“Sometimes when I don’t do what I need to do, like saying prayers as a family, I get a kick from my wife. My wife is always there to support me and our family spiritually.”

A supportive wife Nu’u Akeripa said his wife is his backbone. “She has been very supportive especially when it comes to school. Back home, I was a sports fanatic, and I was able to play professional rugby. I got to that level because all I focused on was rugby. I was never really good at studying. Learning was a difficult thing for me to do, but my wife is smart and has helped me.

“We’ve both recently been accepted to the University of Utah for our master’s [degrees].

Without her, I wouldn’t have got accepted. I couldn’t have done it without her.”

Oscar Ip, a senior majoring in business management from Hong Kong, works with Nu’u Akeripa at Student Leadership. Ip said of his coworker, “He has a wonderful wife. I see his wife help him balance their lives. She is a great support

“The decisions we make and the things we do is all for the family and for our children.”

JUNE 2019

25

Leaving a legacy to move forward and grow Mark Macdonald reflects on time at BYU–Hawaii and looks at the future as he leaves to earn his Ph.D

BY HAELEY VAN DER WERF As Alumni and Career Services Director Mark Macdonald prepares to leave BYU–Hawaii to pursue a doctorate in leadership studies at the University of San Diego in California, he described the growth he has seen both personally and professionally during his five years at BYUH. Colleagues and friends shared things they love about Macdonald, such as his sense of humor and his genuine love for people.

While Macdonald said he initially moved to Hawaii to work for LDS Philanthropies in November of 2013, the outgoing director of Alumni and Career Services and Steven Wheelwright, then president of BYUH, encouraged him to apply for the director position in Alumni and Career Services.

Macdonald said, “I applied, and then I was interviewed and offered the job. During the interviews was when I thought I could really like this job, there were things I could contribute, and things I could learn. I accepted the job.”

His legacy

“Part of what excites me the most is I’ve made individual contributions to the lives of the people I’ve managed, the people I’ve worked with, the students. I’ve established these really big programs that will last after I leave, such as the Asia Pacific Career Conference, Handshake, [and] the Ohana Network.”

Joe Plicka, associate professor of English, who has been neighbors with Macdonald for five years, shared Macdonald had grown into his job.

“I haven’t been here long enough to know what was going on at the Career Center before Mark, but my impression is he has taken his job and his mandate to help students enter into the world and make connections so seriously. The number of initiatives he’s started since he’s been here, Macdonald has worked as the director of Alumni and Career Services for five years and helped develop the Handshake Program.

Photo courtesy of Macdonald 26

KE ALAK A ‘I

including Handshake and APCC, were grown from nothing. It’s amazing.”

One of Macdonald’s biggest accomplishments, explained Professor of Business Helena Hannonen, was creating the Asia Pacific Career Conference.

“The main thing he did is he stopped taking students to different countries and started bringing the employers here. I did a study with my students and they really love the Asia Pacific Career Conference. Several of them had interviews, got internships and job offers. That’s a huge thing.”

Hannonen said she admires Macdonald’s vision and he is “very creative. He looks for ways to do things better and in a different way. He is always reading. Sometimes I am afraid he will walk into a palm tree because he is reading. He is always reading or playing his ukulele.

“He is really funny. We laugh a lot. I like it because you can have an intellectual conversation with him and a dialogue.You can have different opinions and you can bounce ideas off of him and see how it can be done better.”

Hannonen continued, “When I was in college, President Spencer W. Kimball said the time will come when the members of our church will do work much better than Leonardo da Vinci’s, Shakespeare’s, and Beethoven’s.

I thought nobody could do better than Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. There was one time I saw Mark and I thought, ‘Okay, he is one of those people President Kimball was talking about.’”

First impressions

Plicka said, “From the moment I met him, he struck me as a very curious person. He is one of the best examples I know of someone who is a lifelong learner. He is very humble, teachable, and ready to learn from anybody at any time. He will gather ideas from anybody. He’s not proud.”

Hannonen said when she first met Macdonald, “I told him off. He didn’t have the skill set I expected him to have, so I told him to get the training. He went and got the training.

It turned out to be what we call in business his sweet spot.”

Hannonen said she has her students take the Meyers Brigg’s Type Indicator test. She said, “That’s what I told Mark he needed to go and get the training for. So, he did, and then he got the advanced training.“I was very direct with him when he started. He said okay, and he followed

Macdonald and his family. Photo courtesy of MacDonald

"He is literally going to change the world.

I think he is going to develop things that will revolutionize some of the ways we communicate and interact." through and got somebody to do MBTI when he wasn’t qualified to do it. Then he went to the training and from there on he started doing it himself. It takes great humility to take feedback that isn’t always positive.”

One of the biggest changes Hannonen said she saw in Macdonald is, “He found himself. A lot of times when you graduate from school, you go and take jobs and you wonder what your purpose in life is and where you should be working. He had been in several jobs already, but not until he started to do Meyers Briggs and all these other instruments [that he] fell in love with organizational development.

“It was like he finally came home and said, ‘This is who I am. These are the types of things I want to do the rest of my life. I know I can make a difference for individuals and organizations.’ I think a lot of students spend a lot of time trying to figure out what they’re supposed to do. That’s where he was. He was trying to find his purpose in life. This is where he found it.”

What he learned

Macdonald said looking back on his time at BYUH has helped him realize how much he has grown and how much more he still has to learn.

“If I look back and compare the 2019 version of me and the 2014 version of me, there is some obvious growth and that’s exciting. I had never managed anybody before this job... so that has been something I have grown a lot in over these five years. Being a manager isn’t something I jumped right in to. I didn’t really lead, and now, five years later, I know more than I knew then how much I still have to grow. I am aware I still have a lot to go. I didn’t even know what I didn’t know at the beginning. That is part of how I have grown. At least now I know how incompetent I am. Earlier, didn’t even know what the field of competence looked like. I’ve done a lot of work in this job I wouldn’t have gotten in another management job, such as psychology, differences in personality, differences in communication propensity, differences of interest.”

JUNE 2019

27

Macdonald can often be seen playing his ukulele around campus and Laie. Photo courtesy of MacDonald

Deciding to leave

Macdonald said after he finished his master’s degree in 2009, he did not anticipate going back to school. However, he explained around 2016 he realized if he wanted to grow and gain a position with more organizational influence, he needed to get his doctorate.

He shared, “I started thinking seriously about a Ph.D I started looking for options online. As I was talking to people and as I considered my learning style, I realized online options were either not going to achieve what I wanted them to, either because of their nature or because of mine.”

After the October 2017 General Conference, Macdonald explained, “I woke up having dreamt about receiving an offer letter from a school in Southern California with Ph.D in leadership studies. I hadn’t looked at many schools in Southern California, nor had I searched for any degrees with the term leadership studies. I did a Google search... and University of San Diego is at the top of the list.

“It looked like the program was perfectly designed for me. Everything I had been looking for was in this program. It would allow me to learn in a way that matched my learning style.

28

KE ALAK A ‘I

It had all the subject matter I could be really interested in and the flexibility to bend it a little bit to where I would really be excited, and where I could maintain my lifestyle to provide an income for my four kids.”

Saying goodbye

Plicka said he will miss Macdonald. “It will be sad when he’s gone. I’m sure whoever will do the job when he is gone will do a good job, but they will have a lot to live up to.

“He is good at his job, but this isn’t the kind of job that would be good for him to stay in for very long. He’s done what he needs to do here.

He’s learned basically everything there is to know about this particular job, and it’s time for him to move on.”

Hannonen said when Macdonald approached her to get her opinion about getting his doctorate she told him to go for it. She said, “Mark getting his Ph.D will make him better than he is right now.You need a Ph.D to be credible in business and in academia... There is a different level of rigor and discipline you get with a Ph.D. Mark is lucky because he could write his dissertation on some of the work we have done.”

After he finishes his doctorate program, Hannonen said she believes, “He can write his own ticket to any university and any organization. That degree is going to be so good. He is literally going to change the world.

I think he is going to develop things that will revolutionize some of the ways we communicate and interact. He’s going to be writing a lot of articles and books. He’s going to be speaking at a lot of conferences, not just as a speaker, but as the keynote. He’s going to go very far.”

Jimmer Fredette returns to the NBA Students react to Fredette, a former BYU in Provo basketball star, making a return to the NBA

BY WILL KRUEGER Jimmer Fredette has signed a two-year contract with the Phoenix Suns as a point guard/ shooting guard, with the second year being a team option. Fredette, who became a national household name in 2011 as a BYU in Provo college basketball player, spent a few years in the National Basketball Association [NBA] before playing overseas in China.

Beau Barlow, a junior studying anthropology from California, said, “I feel like this gives members someone to look up to. I remember when ‘Jimmer mania’ was going on, playing church ball and everyone was trying to be like Jimmer. He was a huge deal.

“I followed Jimmer in college. I saw [him] play in college against Kawhi Leonard and Fredette is now playing for the Phoenix Suns.

Photo courtesy of the Associated Press

San Diego State. He dropped like 47 points.

The hype was real. He was the biggest player in college basketball in 2011. He had a lot of exposure all over the media. Everyone was recognizing him, even President Obama.”

Fredette, a star shooting guard in college, was named the Naismith College Player of the Year in 2011 with the BYU Cougars before playing a few seasons in the NBA. He set multiple BYU career records, including points, three-pointers, free throws, and wins played, according to the NBA official website.

Fredette was selected by the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round as the 10th overall pick of the 2011 NBA draft, according to the NBA website. He was traded that night to the Sacramento Kings. He later had stints with the Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans and the New York Knicks in the NBA before playing in China for the Shanghai Sharks.

Curtis Delfin, a senior studying political science from Guam, shared the excitement members of the Church have for Fredette’s return. “I think it’s something members will love to see. He had such a big impact at BYU. For him to come back, after his long run overseas, members will be really happy to see him... He’s someone that showcases his faith and his basketball skills.”

Fredette has spent the 2016-2019 seasons in the Chinese Basketball Association, earning MVP honors and numerous titles.

Kyle Hokanson, a senior majoring in biology from Oregon, said of Fredette’s return, “It’s exciting. I hope he does well. It’s interesting because the NBA has increasingly a 3-point game and Jimmer was pretty famous for shooting his 3s. I feel like he can make a great comeback.”

Delfin added, “I think him coming to the NBA at this time is good for him. When he first came in right out of BYU, I don’t know if he had the necessary skill set at the time. Him

playing overseas in China, being the leading scorer and showcasing his scoring ability there, I think he has earned his way back to the NBA. I think he can be very good.”

Barlow also thought Jimmer has a much better shot in his return to the NBA. “I think in today’s NBA Jimmer is a much better fit for [the] league rather than in 2011. He’s a shooter, and I think he can do much better now with his playstyle.”

Hokanson commented, “He’s a pretty good example to me of being a member [of the Church] and still being able to pursue your passions. It’s exciting to see members in the NBA. “It’s gotta be tough to be in the NBA for a family man like Jimmer. They have such busy schedules with traveling and games. It’s great to see a member [of the Church] in his position be an example and show balance.”

Stats in China (most recent season) PPG: 36.9

RPG: 6.9

APG: 5.5

SPG: 2.0 Graphics by Brad Carbine JUNE 2019

29

Serving with love, retiring with honor Professors share what they love about BYU–Hawaii and what they will miss when they are gone

Dr. Mark James: Teacher and mentor

BY HAELEY VAN DER WERF

Mark James graduated from BYU-Hawaii and went on to teach TESOL here for 38 years. Above: James speaking at one of the annual David O. McKay lectures.

Photos by Monique Saenz 30

KE ALAK A ‘I

As Mark James, a TESOL professor, looked back on his 38 years teaching at BYU–Hawaii, he recalled the growth of the university, the improvements in TESOL, and shared some of his favorite memories teaching at BYU-Hawaii.

James, who said he originally was looking to teach English in Saudi Arabia after receiving his master’s degree in TESOL, decided to apply for an internship at BYUH in the EIL program.

After one year, he became a full-time faculty member. Since then, he shared how he has seen the university almost double in size.

“Some of my favorite memories involve nature,” James shared. “Most of us travel from one class or building to another without noticing that this campus has an amazing diversity of flora and fauna. For example, there are one or two pairs of saffron finches who frequent the campus. They’re just beautiful. I have a fond memory of the huge paper bark tree that stood in the courtyard by the biology labs. One day, when its blossoms were all out, it was surrounded by thousands of honeybees.

“I’ve also enjoyed moments sitting down with colleagues who needed support, likewise with students who needed a bit of direction, understanding, clarity, or advice.

Opportunities to assist others in moving forward with their lives have been very rewarding. Oftentimes, it has simply been a matter of giving a listening ear and giving them the time and place to express themselves and talk it through.”

James has been involved in the TESOL nearly as long as it has existed. The profession, he said, came into existence in 1966, and the major came to BYUH in 1967. According to James, TESOL has changed as a major with the profession. “We have transitioned from a literature-based curriculum to a methodological-based curriculum that focuses on how your brain is wired to learn languages.”

James explained how one of the best things about his job is watching students fulfill David O. McKay’s vision after they leave BYUH, saying teaching here, “Has brought me into contact with thousands of young members of the church—our church’s next generation of leaders. Looking back, I have had the privilege to teach students who are now community and professional leaders, as well as currently sitting general authorities, current and former mission presidents, and numerous, ward, stake, and district leaders.”

Advice he would like to leave the students with, James said, is to, “Take advantage of the opportunities on campus. Ask the important questions now.”

After retiring, James said he plans to tend to his farm in Kahuku, which he said has been neglected over the years, and he will be dedicating more time to his calling as a church historian for the Hawaiian Islands. With the extra time he has, he said he will begin working his way through the collection of books he has been wanting to read.

Dr. Lenard Huff: Bonded with students & the community

BY ESTHER INSIGNE Before becoming a professor in BYUH, Dr. Lenard Huff said he taught in several universities such as the University of Phoenix.

After teaching for five years at the University of Hawaii, he said he read a Church New’s post saying BYUH needed a new marketing professor.

Huff said he was not sure whether he would take the job posting. He recalled one day, as he was planning on visiting Laie to go to the temple that he had a feeling to look more into the position.

“I called up the dean and said, ‘I’m going to the temple today, but I’d like to know more about the position… So, I talked to them and thought, ‘I really need to do this.’ So, I applied, and I guess the rest is history.”

When asked what his favorite part of teaching was, Huff laughed and said, “It certainly isn’t grading.” He shared he enjoyed working with students on projects, especially when students wrote a marketing plan for a product or business.

In regards to why he liked the marketing plan, he said, “Because it’s when students bring it all together and they can get creative. It has given me an opportunity to get out into the community and develop relationships with business people and community [members].

Huff also shared he liked having to think about “what he was going to teach” and enjoyed “how he got to learn from observing students’ and professors’ lifestyles on campus.” He added it was a “good combination of working with people.”

After Spring Semester, Huff said he will be moving back to Provo and despite BYU in Provo being nearby, he would miss the university life the most. “I’m just going to miss coming to the office every day. [I’m also] going to miss having access to the gym, and the swimming pool. I’m going to miss devotionals as well.

“I just think that there’s a mission here that all of a sudden I’m not apart of anymore.

So, I’m going to kind of miss that as well,” remarked Huff.

After being away from Utah for almost 30 years, Huff said, “I want to spend some time just renewing and nurturing relationships that kind of drifted away a little bit.” Although Huff and his wife have traveled to different countries in the past, he and his wife plan to make a trip to various North American countries every year. He said he would also like to do more family research and visit places where he and his wife’s families are from, such as Scandinavia, Germany and the British Isles.

Lenard Huff. Photos by Victor Olesen

Huff says working with students on marketing projects brings students together and lets them be creative. Photo by Victor Olesen JUNE 2019

31

Dr. Randal Allred: Words matter and are sacred tools

BY J. ESTON DUNN English Professor Randal Allred’s commitment to improving students’ abilities and his dedication to the phrase, “words matter,” has left its mark on campus, according to close associates, as he celebrates closing his 26-year career at BYU-Hawaii.

“I hope I taught students that language matters in their lives, and that words and language are sacred tools, and our ability to use language and reason are proof that we are the children of God,” shared Allred.

According to him, it was challenging but stimulating teaching students from a dozen different countries in one small class.

After teaching a diverse student body, he shared how he learned “you can’t make any assumptions to what people know or how they connect to certain ideas. I tried to use that in the classroom. I tried to figure out where students are coming from to figure out how it relates to the remainder of the students.”

Instead of making assumptions, Allred said, he shifted towards a more adaptive teaching style.

“I try to use global examples, and as I learn more about my students, I try to use their unique perspectives to prompt cross-cultural discussions. Even something as simple as the color red has profoundly different meanings across the cultures represented in a single one of our classrooms.” Red in the western world is often associated with lust or anger he explained, but in China red is the color of good luck and joy, and in Tonga, red is the color of royalty and strength.

During his time at BYUH, Allred said he sat at the head of the Honors Department and aided the Honors Council with teaching leadership and instilling academic excellence to participants.

“I love teaching here mostly because I feel BYUH is the cutting edge of the global church.

That’s not a new idea. Other people have had

32

KE ALAK A ‘I

it, but it’s amazing to meet people here from so many countries who are literally pioneers.”

Quoting from his one-year reflection teaching in Laie written in 1995, Dr. Allred said, “When I see my students’ faces each day, when I get smiles and hellos from each faculty and staff person I meet (whether I know them or not), when students are nice to you even after the class is done and grades are filed, when I hear my wife say everyday, ‘I like it here,’ when I see my children thriving, making friends, and growing like tender plants in the sun and the warm, moist wind sweeping in off the sea like the sweet, gentle breath of God--I can put up with the imperfections of a place that has so few.”

Longtime friend and co-worker Stephen Hancock, an English Program Lead, said, “He [Allred] completely dedicates himself to helping students improve. When he’s just with students, he’s very personal and interested in student’s lives and how that plays into contact on their other lives.

“He wants to make sure he’s doing the best in every job, and because of that, he’s impacted a lot of campuses.”

Originally from California, Allred received his doctorate from UCLA where he completed his dissertation on several 19thcentury writer’s responses to the Civil War. “I’ve always been interested in the connection between history and culture: The symbiotic relationship between literature and history, how one affects the other.”

Allred said he is also a proud father who “didn’t want to postpone children for his education.” By the time Allred graduated from UCLA, he already had four children. “I had children so I could have a life outside of my research,” he commented.

Among other things, Allred shared he is an accomplished rhythm guitarist and longtime member of the on-campus Celtic band, expert

Randal Allred has been teaching at BYU-Hawaii for 26 years and says he enjoyed teaching students from around the world. Photo by Chad Hsieh

of nautical lore and sailing, an avid fan of strategy board games and an active member of the Hawaiian Republican Party.

Allred said he plans on splitting his retirement between Utah and Northwest Arkansas where his children and grandchildren live.

His parting advice to the student body was, “Get your face out of your cellphones.

Look at people and talk to them. Read books and keep the commandments.”

Any student wishing to say goodbye to Allred can visit his office at McKay 104D.

Viliami Toluta’u: Inspiring artist, teacher & friend

BY ALYSSA ODOM After working at BYU-Hawaii for 28 years, Viliami Toluta’u, an associate art professor, will be retiring at the conclusion of Spring Semester 2019. After 28 years at BYUH, Toluta’u said he learned there is special power when people teach others, and when they express themelves, they are creating art.

In 1989, Toluta’u said he took a leap of faith and applied for a professor position at BYUH. “Teaching was never the profession I had planned to get into. I had just wanted to continue creating and selling my art as a freelance artist. However, I had something prompting me to continue pursuing a teaching career.

“I decided to apply for the job at BYUH and decided, ‘If I’m meant to be a teacher, I’ll get this job. If not, I’ll pursue a job as a freelance artist.”

After receiving the job at BYUH, Toluta’u said he received confirmation this was where he was meant to be and he was doing what he was meant to be doing.

After almost three decades, Toluta’u shared Heavenly Father has taught him valuable lessons he only could have learned in the classroom setting as a teacher. “I absolutely love working with so many different students. I have learned from [my students] how everyone has it in them to be an artist. I could not have learned this if I alone was creating art. There is a special power that comes from sharing our skills and teaching them to others.”

Stephanie Eldenberg, a senior from Sweden studying art, has been working as Toluta’u’s teacher’s aid for Spring Semester 2019. She commented on how she has witnessed his love for both art and his students while she has had the opportunity to work so closely with him.

“I have truly felt of his genuine concern and care for students, especially for me,” said Eldenberg. “He has taught me and challenged me to do what I need to do to grow as an artist. I feel like that in itself is going above and beyond what a teacher needs to do. He really

cares about each individual and helps us to perform at our best and to enjoy it as we do so.”

As a professor, Toluta’u said he has encountered many times when students have been discouraged in their creation process.

“Whenever a student is discouraged, I try to help them understand their art is meant to be different than the person’s next to theirs.

Individuality in artwork is key. The most important part is that they create something from the heart. Doing what you love is the true essence of art.

“Art, to me, can be defined in one word: You. What you do, think, and see is different from what your neighbor does, thinks, and sees.

You are unique and when you express yourself, you are creating art.”

Toluta’u said he has found great joy in expressing history through his artwork. He is the artist of the sculpture of Jonathan Napela and George Q. Cannon statue in front of the Cannon Activities Center on campus. “Art is a special way of expressing our love and respect for our forefathers. In my sculpture of Jonathan Napela, I depicted him as the strong and happy man that he was known to be.

“Although he was affected by leprosy and it changed his appearance, it never changed his heart. Art and history go hand in hand. I firmly believe that you can’t create art without a knowledge of history, and you cannot fully understand history without art.”

Before coming to BYUH, Toluta’u studied as a student here, back then known as Church College of Hawaii, and then went on to receive his master’s in sculpture at BYU in Provo. His dream, he said, was to be a freelance artist and to share his artistic talents with the public.

After graduation, he moved to Alaska with his family. Eventually, Toluta’u shared how he was prompted to begin sharing his talents through teaching and began to teach art at their local high school. After living in Alaska, the Toluta'u family moved back to Tonga, where he is originally from. Toluta’u had the opportunity

An artist and professor, Viliami Toluta’u said working with students has taught him every person has it within themselves to create art. Photos by Ho Yin Li

to return to where he attended high school, at Liahona High School and became an art teacher there. Afterward, he came to BYUH as a professor.

Rahul Chinna Mungamuri said he was able to come to BYU–Hawaii because of the I-Work program. After losing his parents and his grandmother, his brother and sisters had to make their own way in India. All three of his siblings are now also serving missions. Photo by Ho Yin Li

Finding himself by serving others For freshman Rahul Chinna Mungamuri, going on a mission and the support of his family changed the course of his life

BY ELIJAH HADLEY After growing up with hardships in India and losing his parents when he was a child, BYU– Hawaii student Rahul Mungamuri said he found purpose and learned about the love of God through his missionary service. After his parents died, he said he lived with his grandmother who let the missionaries in and his family joined the Church. Although he did not always receive the support he wanted, Mungamuri said he always had the Church as something that was constant.

Reflecting on the greatest blessing he received as a missionary, Mungamuri, a freshman and exercise and sports science major, said going on a mission “opens your eyes to the miracles of God. I thought I was the only one with problems until the mission.

“I met families who ate only one meal a day, and sometimes not at all. Some walked 50 minutes to come to church. The converts taught me so much about dedication and humility. My friends who broke the commandments now respect me.”

When he came back from his mission, Mungamuri said his old classmates and friends did not celebrate his return. With tears building in his eyes, Mungamuri struggled to describe 34

KE ALAK A ‘I

the experience. “I felt so small. All my school friends mocked me for going on a mission.

These were good friends, friends I had had for 10 years, and they were asking why I was still serving God even though, in their eyes, He took my parents away.

“They made fun of me for not having a career yet or any college education and were making fun of my mistakes before I left on the mission. They kept on asking me what I got from my mission. I said, ‘Blessings,’ and they just laughed at me. They told me ‘Blessings? You have no studying, no family, and you think you have blessings?’ My friends had parents who paid for their college, plenty of money, and a home.”

After taking several deep breaths, Mungamuri continued. “There were times I was not perfect. My friends had everything material, but I could recognize the real blessings in my life, which can’t be bought. I have my brother and sisters. I have a family. I am going to church every Sunday. It’s what kept me happy during those hard times.”

Despite the hardships, he said “I don’t care what Ph.D. I would have had by now, or how

much money I could have earned if I had stayed in my job. Being a missionary and developing a greater understanding of the gospel was worth all those sacrifices. All the things I gained from the mission I could not gain in 10 years of schooling.”

Mungamuri said he went on his mission because of the appreciation he had for the missionaries who taught him. “As a child, I wanted to be just like them, to give happiness to someone else. I can’t explain how grateful I am to my missionaries for teaching me the gospel. I wanted to be that part of someone’s life.”

A family matter Mungamuri’s older brother and two younger sisters are currently serving missions.

He was the first in his family to do so. “After my experience in the MTC and the temple endowment, I think everyone should serve a mission. It has changed me and will change my family.”

While in the Missionary Training Center (MTC), Mungamuri said he was inspired by a talk given by Elder David A. Bednar, which

emphasized the importance of an individual’s outward actions, and how that individual shows an inner belief towards Christ.

“The talk really set me on fire to do the work of the Lord however I could,” said Mungamuri. “There were times I just completely forgot about myself and my family and thought all about my investigators. They became my top priority.

“My brother is a very smart guy. He could get a free seat in most any college of his choosing, but he decided to go on a mission. He wanted to be a policeman in India. If he tries to apply for the job after he gets back, they will ask him why there is a gap of a few years. They will not accept a mission as an excuse.”

Vilas Karkala from Hyderabad, India, served in the same mission in Northern India. Although they were never companions, Karkala said Mungamuri “was a very good teacher and has a great talent when it comes to understanding people. He is able to get easily connected with people.

“I feel missionary service helped change him into someone better, and he became much more selfless because he saw how others suffered more than he did.”

Born and raised in Rajahmundry in Southern India, Mungamuri lost his parents at the age of 5. He and his siblings were raised by their grandmother, who he said “treated us like her own children. Even before she met the missionaries, my grandmother had the grace of God radiating from her.”

Mungamuri said his grandmother had dealt with the deaths of two of her sons. “When the missionaries came to her door, she felt they were like sons to her. She liked the character of the missionaries, the way they spoke, and how they taught her. She told us she wanted us to be like them one day.”

Within a few weeks, Mungamuri and his three siblings were baptized into the Church.

However, their grandmother passed away from cancer several years later. He and his siblings were then forced to support themselves in order to go to school and eat, he said. “To go on a mission, I had to stop my studies and work for at least two years to earn enough money.

“Even before I was a member of the Church, I always wanted to help others. The moral in my life from my childhood was, ‘I don’t want to hurt anyone with my actions.’

Coming to church helped me learn more about charity.”

Serving in Northern India was difficult, according to Mungamuri. “Every hundred miles, the culture, language and clothing changes in India. A lot of westerners might think Indians are all the same. There are 1.3 billion people living in India, and about 330 million in the United States. We are far more diverse than the rest of the world might think.

Delhi has a different language and a different atmosphere.

“Walking down the city streets of Delhi, I saw so much poverty and hardship. Outside a restaurant, my companion and I saw a fistfight.

These two men were beating each other in the street. As they fought, I felt blood spray on my hand, but my companion said not to get involved. There were plenty of people around who could have stopped it, but no one did.

“In India, everyone is focused on their own survival.You could live next door to someone and never learn their name. People die and no one cares.”

Returning with honor “There are two things I kept in mind when I returned. [I] saw a lot of people going less active after finishing their missions. One [goal] was not to be jobless and the other was to follow the Law of Chastity. When you are jobless or do not live a chaste life, you are further away from God.” When Mungamuri returned home from his mission, he spent only 20 days in his hometown and returned to Delhi, where he got a job at a call center, making the equivalent of about $200 USD per month.

“I did the work only because I needed to make money to survive,” he said. “If I had been

given the chance to do what I loved, it would be something to do with sports or photography.

If I still had parents, I would ask them for help getting to a good college, but in reality, I knew it wasn’t an option to follow my dreams at the moment.”

Prior to coming to BYUH, Mungamuri had to sell his DSLR camera to finance his schooling. He said he hopes to make enough money in the future to afford a new camera and continue his passion.

While taking correspondence courses in Delhi and working, he described the call center as dehumanizing because of the long hours he had to work, as well as the indifference with which people treated him. “I knew I could not stay there forever, but in India, everyone is just trying to survive. I could not wait for money to just fall out of the sky. No one has time to help one another because they’re working to support themselves.”

Mungamuri learned from Vaishali Kilaparthi, a missionary from his mission, about the BYUH I-Work program. When he learned of it, he said, “Everything went on. All opportunities came at once.” He worked fast, getting ready for his visa interview and English test, which he passed after only one try.

Kilaparthi, a freshman from Visakhapatnam, India, majoring in accounting, said she felt blessed to be a part of the I-Work program, and is happy Mungamuri was able to participate in the program, allowing him to have a new life in Hawaii.

When Mungamuri arrived in Laie, Kilaparthi said she noticed a change in him.

“He was so happy to be here and went to the temple often, as a way of thanking his Heavenly Father for the blessings he received. Laie is very different from Delhi.”

Graphic by Lynne Hardy JUNE 2019

35

New hale parents bring decades of experience to their callings From sumo wrestling in Japan to captaining the Tongan rowing team, hale parents the Falevai’s share their journey to BYU–Hawaii

BY WILL KRUEGER Church service missionaries Elder Alani and Sister Ma’unga Falevai from Tongatapu, Tonga, have been serving as hale parents for three months. Sister Falevai said her husband “has done it all,” including sumo wrestling for several years in Japan, leading a Tongan rowing team, winning championships in the two Samoa’s and Tonga, and spending more than 30 years as a police officer.

Elder and Sister Falevai are now missionaries serving as hale parents. Sister Falevai was an educator in Tonga and served in the Ministry of Education.

Photo by Chad Hsieh

36

KE ALAK A ‘I

Becoming a Tongan sumo wrestler Sister Falevai said, “The King of Tonga came to visit Alani’s high school. A Japanese company came with him to pick some boys for sumo wrestling. The sumo was first introduced to Alani’s college, Tonga College, because it was an all-boys school.”

Elder Falevai said only four people were selected from Tonga to go to Japan. Two from Tonga College, one from the police force, and one from the army. Elder Falevai recalled, “I stayed in Japan for a few years. I was living in Tokyo, but we were traveling everywhere in Japan. We had six tournaments per year.”

As a 19-year-old Tongan in Japan in the 1970s, Falevai shared, “It was hard at first. The training was really tough. They wanted me to get big and eat a lot. I wasn’t the biggest because I focused on my technique.

“I learned how to speak Japanese while I was there. I had a neighbor who helped me learn.

I knew if I didn’t know the language, I wouldn’t know much about the country [and] culture.”

Sister Falevai said her husband can still speak Japanese and he speaks to Japanese students in the hales. The Falevai’s also have a son, named Minaminoshima, who also became a sumo wrestler. Elder Falevai gave him training in Tonga before he went on to live in Japan for six years.

Resuming life in Tonga Upon returning to Tonga from Japan, Elder

Falevai married his wife, who later converted to the Church and was baptized. The King of Tonga recruited Elder Falevai to become a police officer, where he spent 34 years on the police force working on various islands in Tonga.

Sister Falevai has a bachelor’s in food and nutrition and apparel textiles and a master’s in business administration. She was a high school teacher in math, science, home economics and design technology. She left the Kingdom as the Acting Chief Education Officer and head of Education Management of Information System Unit at the Tonga Ministry of Education 2014 to 2015. The Falevai’s have eight children; seven boys and one girl. Their girl, Lupe Falevai, is the youngest child and attends BYUH. Five of their eight kids have attended BYUH. During his time on the police force, Elder Falevai also captained the Tongan rowing team consisting of a crew of 42 members.

The team went on to compete and win several championships throughout the Pacific.

As captain, Elder Falevai said, “I encouraged everyone to fast and pray before our races and tournaments. Only a few in the crew were members of the Church. The entire team would join together to fast and pray.”

Nathan VanBuskirk, a freshman majoring in history education from California, is a residential advisor and works with the Falevai’s in Hale 3.

He said, “I was surprised when I found out about his background. He comes off as a pretty quiet man. I was shocked to hear about all the stuff he has done in his life. He doesn’t talk about himself much. We only know about it because his wife has talked about it.”

The Falevai’s in Hawaii Sister Falevai said they did not plan to live in Hawaii. “We came for our son’s wedding in November 2015. After the wedding, everyone wanted us to remain in Hawaii. We had no more kids in Tonga and our grandchildren were here.

We immediately filed for permanent residence, and it was granted in 2016.”

As new hale parents, Sister Falevai shared, “We want to help out in anyway and serve the students here in the hale. Polynesians are reacting to us well. We are serving and bringing our Polynesian spirit with us.”

VanBuskirk added, “Elder Falevai is a really nice and humble man. He’s always smiling. He’s calm and peaceful. He is hardworking. Sister Falevai does so much for us too. We are grateful

to have the Falevai’s as Hale parents.”

Top: Elder Falevai during a wrestling match in Japan, with the King of Tonga watching in the background. Bottom: Falevai lived in Japan for several years in the 1970s. Photos courtesy of Falevai JUNE 2019 37

From farmer to CEO Inspired by his farmer grandfather, Elvin Laceda says he dedicates his time to helping farmers in the Philippines

BY ESTHER INSIGNE With only 88 pesos ($1.69) when he first arrived in Hawaii, Elvin Laceda, a senior from Philippines studying political science, said he now has more than 88 reasons to be thankful after having the opportunity to empower farmers from his home country.

“I think God has something in store for me that I can contribute to the betterment of the Philippines. First, my family; second, my community, the church and the country,” Laceda remarked.

He said his grandparents raised him. His grandfather, who was both a farmer and a fisherman, instilled in him “hard work, service and love for the community.”

People have asked Laceda, why he could not just focus on his studies first and help others after he graduates. However, Laceda replied he “cannot help but think of others,” and said he felt he needed to do something while he is still in school.

“This picture was taken in Adamson University Chemistry Lab, Manila, Philippines. I was invited to speak in the 6th Social Entrepreneurship Conference in Manila in April 2019.” Photo courtesy of James Astle Photo by Chad Hsieh 38 KE ALAK A ‘I

Gaining strength from family Laceda said he did not meet his father until he decided to look for him when he was 21 years old. Despite the lack of a real father, he shared it did not matter because he knew he had “a relationship with [his] Father in Heaven” and his grandfather filled the role of father.

He recalled an experience with his grandfather, which “stuck with him” until this day. Laceda said he and his grandfather were the only members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in their family. The closest church was in another town, and it cost 60 pesos ($1.27) to travel and two hours to go to church from their house.

they established in the area, said Laceda. “The [graduates] totally changed their mindset. They have hopes, they have businesses and they’ve created jobs. Just that single community, I think [that’s] an accomplishment,” Laceda explained.

“Every Sunday because we didn't have that much money for [fare], my grandfather would save for my [fare] since there was not enough for him to go to church,” recalled Laceda.

Laceda shared how his grandfather served people “sometimes beyond what he could do.”

Laceda’s grandfather told him to “love others, be good with them and serve them whenever you can.” Especially with education, his grandfather told him through gaining knowledge, it would help him rise from poverty.

Sharing his light Initiating and creating change is one of the things Laceda said he wants to do wherever he goes. Regarding his team’s continuing success with Rice Up, a company connecting farmers with consumers started through the platform Enactus, Rice Up enables farmers to profit off of their crops, he said.

“I never thought it would be this big. I could never do it without other people enabling me to create change because BYU-Hawaii is an enabling environment for something like this to happen.”

According to Laceda, the biggest accomplishment was not winning the National Enactus Competition twice but he and his team changing the lives of people in the Philippines for the better.

A community in Davao, Philippines, has more than 120 graduates from the farm school

Balancing life with school and work Joseph Duano, a senior from Virginia studying marketing, said Laceda’s commitment to service comes “from an issue very close to his heart and his grandfather.” He explained, “I think that personal connection is what really drove it, and now it's a personal commitment to not just his grandfather, but the farmers of the Philippines.”

Joan Rey, a junior from the Philippines studying communications, described Laceda as a “leader and a visionary man.” She explained, “[Laceda is] passionate in something and has a clear vision of what he wants to do. I think those are traits of a leader.”

Laceda said he was also able to establish Rice Up’s model in Cambodia with the help of his teammates and mentors, and the program is now helping two provinces in the country.

Pattica San, a sophomore from Cambodia studying finance, has collaborated with Laceda and said he is thankful he can help his people strive for better lives and more stable incomes.

“There is nothing [more] delightful than seeing my people having the confidence and the hope to work in their farms again,” said San. Although he is not an “A” student, Laceda shared what’s important to him is “the value and contribution I give to my country, to my family and the school.”

“You cannot have everything, but you can have enough to serve other people,” remarked Laceda.

Plans and advice Other than his goals include expanding Rice Up into 10 different countries in Southeast Asia, and Laceda hopes one day to become the president of the Philippines.

Initially, Laceda said he came to BYUH to pursue biology but now he has desires to be a lawyer because one of his mentors said, “If you want to learn how to govern, you need to learn about the art of politics.”

“It’s my vision to lead the country hopefully in a way that is godly and [have] sustainable development,” said Laceda.

Graphics by Lynne Hardy

Laceda shared how people must be aware of their surroundings or communities. “You can never see something that is needed if you’re not sensitive or vigilant, or if you don’t open your heart or eyes,” he remarked.

Laceda encouraged students to pursue every opportunity offered to them as everyone will do their best to help you. He shared students ultimately ended up studying at this university because the communities where they came from need them.

“I hope we can leverage the resources here in BYU-Hawaii to not to only empower us as students but also empower us as disciples, as leaders and as changemakers,” said Laceda.

Laceda says he wants to help his fellow Filipino farmers and hopes to expand Rice Up into 10 other countries. Photo by courtesy Laceda JUNE 2019

39

After receiving a prompting to leave Utah, the Garcia family moved back to Laie.

Photos by Chad Hsieh

Preserving and healing Garcia family says listening to the Spirit helps them find direction in life and in helping others

BY HAELEY VAN DER WERF

Culture, family history and healing from emotional trauma are the center of the lives of the Garcia family. Joshua Garcia is an alumnus from Utah and his wife, Hailala Garcia, is a junior from Kahuku majoring in hospitality and tourism management. After Joshua Garcia graduated from BYU–Hawaii in 2012 with a degree in university studies and exercise and ports science, he said their family felt prompted to move back to Laie after living in Utah.

Shortly after returning, the couple started their projects Remember and Remove My Baggage to help people preserve culture and deal with emotional trauma.

40

KE ALAK A ‘I

Remember Remember is a multicultural non-profit group comprised of individuals all over the world, according to their Facebook page. The Remember Cultural Exchange Program brings workshops to communities in the Pacific to help them continue their education, remember their culture and ancestors, and increase peacebuilding.

According to Joshua Garcia, the purpose of Remember is to celebrate the past and present by sharing stories. He said, “We can honor the past by preserving and nurturing culture, being aware of where you're from. That’s family history.”

Heilala Garcia explained, “We’ve been able to mingle and connect with all these different people from all over the world. We think, ‘Wow.You have an amazing story. That needs to be shared.’ You could pick two people on campus and they would definitely have some kind of amazing story about their life that will just blow you away.

“Remember is allowing us to remember their stories, remembering the people who came before them, and preparing those who will come after. There’s no point in sharing stories if the people who come after you can’t hear it.” The idea for Remember, according to Joshua Garcia, came from their experiences

doing different dances with people from around the world. “One of the groups we were with focused on dances, firesides, and promoting higher education. It’s similar, but this has more workshops and interactions.

“We have learned from and danced with a lot of people. We want to do a similar project here where we find people who have stories of overcoming struggle … Stories of faith and perseverance.”

He described Laie as the perfect place to base his project. “We need to really think, ‘How can we spread the gospel? How can we impact the world?’ Being here, I realized instead of going out to different countries and going into the world, being here in shining light, you're preparing to spread light into the world.”

Remember featured Yanique Hadley, a senior from Fiji majoring in hospitality and tourism management. She said she became involved after her then coworker, Heilala Garcia, mentioned it to her. “It’s really good because it will help students around the community. I remember her mentioning [students] don’t take advantage of the school, the programs and the education. This helps people around here know this helps students from the islands and lets them know they should come and take advantage of the resources at this school.”

work on him, and after the first two sessions, he was back to his crazy, bubbly, talkative self.”

As they started Remove My Baggage, Joshua Garcia said they started working with people and the word spread. “We would get emails, texts and phone calls saying, ‘Can you help one of my friends?’ We would say ‘Sure’ because it doesn’t take very long, maybe 20 minutes or a half hour.”

Remove My Baggage Joshua Garcia said they found out about processing emotional trauma when they met a student using alternative medicine to help process her emotional baggage. They worked with her in dealing with emotional trauma and had desirable results. The couple then decided to learn how to use alternative medicine.

“Since then, we’ve helped people all over,” Joshua Garcia said. “We’ve worked with people in the Dominican Republic and in Europe. My wife has even helped people in Afghanistan process their emotional baggage.” The couple connects with people via social media.

While she initially didn’t believe in the program, Heilala Garcia said, “The only reason I became a believer was when we did some work on my son and I saw an immediate change.

“I had noticed he was starting to withdraw from people. He was really quiet, crying a lot, and shy. This was not my son. We did some

How it works According to Joshua Garcia, Remove My Baggage works the process of applied kinesiology, otherwise known as muscle testing.

Emotions are named and they can identify which emotion a person is subconsciously feeling by the way their body reacts.

When they name an emotion and the person is feeling it, their body will feel strong, but if they name an emotion and they do not feel it, their body will be weak. After they identify the emotion, they will work to help the person release the emotion through their inner energy.

Heilala Garcia said, “It’s helped me too.

I’ve had a lot of trauma in my life. One of the reasons I was able to come back to school is I’m mentally in a better place than before.”

Joshua Garcia said they wish more people knew about the resources available through Remove My Baggage. “We all go through hard stuff. Sometimes it’s loneliness, sadness,

The Garcia family hopes to help others heal from emotional trauma.. Photo by Chad Hsieh

“We can honor the past by preserving and nurturing culture, being aware of where you're from. That’s family history.”

depression or anxiety. There are different things we can do to work through them.

“One of the things a lot of people say is they feel lighter after we work with them.

Sometimes we carry burdens and we don’t even realize. As we work through it, you’re able to have more freedom and do more.You don’t have this heavy load or burden you’re carrying.

It’s awesome.”

Testimonials from their website echo this sentiment. Andrea V. from Utah, said, “When I graduated from grad school, I became very sick and unhappy. I developed an infection and sensitivity in my eye that caused me to spend lots of money with doctors. None of the doctors could figure out what I had. I wasted almost all of my savings on going to doctors until one day I was introduced by a friend to a muscle testing.

“I didn’t understand it logically at that point, but I knew I needed it. So, I emailed Heilala and she was super quick to respond and she helped me release my heart wall, a barrier formed by your mind containing trapped emotions. My eye sensitivity is almost completely gone now. I am much happier in my life. My infection is completely gone.”

To learn more about Remove My Baggage, visit the website at www.removemybaggage. com.You can learn more about Remember on the Facebook page Remember.

JUNE 2019

41

Remembering Stan Lee, the father of superheroes Fans all over the world pay tribute to the late Stan Lee, who they describe as a positive influence and comic-book revolutionary

BY EMI WAINWRIGHT Five students of BYUH honored the late Stan Lee by sharing their favorite cameos of him in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the last of which is fittingly found in the longanticipated and critically acclaimed “Avengers: Endgame.” One student commented on Lee’s impact on the world as it inspired him as an artist. Celebrities have used to social media to pay tribute to Lee’s long, extraordinary life.

Though he passed away in November 2018, Lee helped create some of the most iconic comic-book characters of all time, and he has left behind a Marvel-ous legacy, said John Fedak of The Tufts Daily newspaper.

A fan of Lee’s work, Tyler Dooley, a sophomore art major from Alaska, said the comic book entertainer inspired him as an artist. He said, “Lee encouraged people to do what they’re passionate about. He went from the very beginning of comic books to being the old guy behind some of the most recognizable superheroes. He’s taught me how doing what you like can create a huge impact on the world.”

Lee’s impact begins with the association people have with his superhero creations, according to Dooley.

Creating relatable superheroes Fedak wrote in his article, “Prior to Lee’s meteoric rise to popularity, the superhero genre was saturated with unrealistic, god-like protagonists. Heroes such as Superman were portrayed as one-dimensional with perfect lives and no real problems outside of fighting supervillains.”

He continued, “Lee’s creations were far more complex. He gave his heroes painful backstories, personality flaws and trivial problems, making his characters not only human but also relatable. Spider-Man 42

KE ALAK A ‘I

A Marvel executive says of writer Stan Lee that he made comics interesting, relevant and fun.

Graphic by Brad Carbine

epitomized the human aspect behind Lee’s superheroes: A scrawny nerd from New York who must deal with new superpowers along with crushes, homework and fitting in.

“This novel concept was ultimately what led to Lee’s success and his popularity among readers young and old, and his devotion to characterization can still be seen in the [MCU] of today.”

Dooley said the impact Lee had on popular culture is significant because he made superheroes more relatable. “Take SpiderMan for example, I like how he really can be anyone. He’s someone who was your everyday person who was given an opportunity to grow and become something better.”

Ephraim Insigne, a senior from the Philippines majoring in accounting, agreed with Dooley. “He created the Fantastic Four because he wanted to show a superhero family: A group of people who have normal problems but happen to have superpowers.

“When he created Spider-Man, he wanted to give him normal high school problems.

Peter Parker was late for work, got sick and had relationship troubles. This made [them] so different from God-like characters like Superman and Wonder Woman.”

Tom Brevoort, Marvel’s senior vice president of publishing, told The Washington Post, “There’s no question Stan and the innovations he came up with saved the comic book and the superhero.

“By crafting characters with feet of clay and personal problems and not writing down to an audience that was perceived to be primarily 8 year olds, Stan opened the doorway for more sophisticated and interesting treatments of any subject matter in comics. He made comics interesting, relevant, and fun again.”

His movie cameos Beginning with the TV movie “The Trial of the Incredible Hulk” in 1989, Lee has made cameo appearances in nearly every film featuring Marvel superheroes.

Stephanie Eldenberg, a sophomore from Sweden majoring in art, said she loves all of Lee’s cameos in the MCU films because they show how immersed he was in his work. “I think it’s sad he’s passed away because he left behind a great legacy.

“A lot of people love him and he’s inspired so many people in different ways.

He’s inspired us to raise ourselves to another level and be better than who we really are.

“Because of Stan Lee’s example and influence, people realize they have certain qualities. That might not be exactly like superpowers, but are almost as equal because they can still touch other people’s lives, save them, and help them.”

Lee himself once said, “The definition of a hero is someone who is concerned about other people’s well-being and will go out of his or her way to help them, even if there is no chance of a reward.

“That person who helps others simply because it should or must be done, and because it is the right thing to do, is indeed without a doubt, a real superhero.”

Jofre Downs, a senior majoring in computer science from Arizona, said in a Facebook comment there are two cameos he loves. “The first [cameo] is in the first ‘Avengers’ movie where he says to a news reporter: ‘Superheroes in New York? Give me a break.’ I thought it was so funny because of how ironic it is and [how it] really reflects his comedic attitude.

“The second is from ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse’ where Stan tells Miles [Morales] that he'll miss Spider-Man because they were friends and then subtly encourages him that he will grow into being a superhero eventually.

“It was just very touching because it showed how [Stan] had such a huge love for the characters he helped create.”

Lee has done cameos in Marvel films beyond those in the MCU, including the “X-Men” franchise produced by 20th Century Fox, the “Fantastic Four” movies, and director Sam Raimi’s “Spider-Man” trilogy starring Tobey Maguire. Lee has also cameoed in several Marvel inspired television shows.

Graphics by Brad Carbine

Debby Prins of Florida, 36, comments on social media, “My favorite [cameo] is in ‘Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer.’

He’s trying to get into the wedding for Reed Richards and Sue Storm and tells the guy ‘I’m Stan Lee!’ But the guy wouldn’t let him in because he wasn’t on the guest list.”

Jensen Dye, a sophomore from Utah majoring in Hawaiian studies, said he’ll never forget Lee’s cameo in “Captain America: Civil War.” He said, “When Stan Lee was a mailman. [He knocks on the window] and asks [Iron Man], ‘Are you Tony Stank?’”

JUNE 2019

43

After laughing, Dye continued, “It showed me that even if you are a little kid, a young adult or just an experienced man like Stan Lee, laughing is always the best way to make yourself feel better.”

Lee showed his sense of humor when he told The Washington Post, “I don’t want Brad Pitt or Leo DiCaprio to worry. I’ll stick to cameos.”

Meghan Preece, a sophomore from Arizona majoring in biomedicine, was quick to say, “I love Stan Lee. I love pretty much any

44

KE ALAK A ‘I

moment he shows up [in the Marvel movies.]”

Preece said, “I also really love the part he played in the first Thor movie when he’s trying to get [Thor’s] magic hammer out of the ground with his truck. The back of the truck is completely ripped off and Stan Lee sticks his head out the window and yells, ‘Did it work?’”

Raymond Tumblin Jr., 25, who lives in Florida, adds his thoughts on Lee’s numerous cameos to a Facebook post. “It was just the kind of fan service Stan Lee gave throughout his entire career and even later in life. He

was always great with his fans and I felt like [his cameos] were an acknowledgment he and Marvel were always listening.

“They made you feel appreciated as a fan and gave the entire experience a family vibe.”

Stan Lee’s final cameo (spoiler) Lee once told Playboy magazine, "You know, my motto is 'Excelsior.' That's an old word that means 'upward and onward to greater glory.' It's on the seal of the state of New York. Keep moving forward, and if it's time to go, it's time. Nothing lasts forever."

In an article for RadioTimes, Huw Fullerton wrote, “It seems appropriate that the late Stan Lee should have his very last cameo in ‘Avengers: Endgame,’ a film that ties up the loose ends of all the [MCU] movies to date and looks forward to a new future for the franchise.”

The cameo is brief but Fullerton says it

seems to be a perfect send-off for Lee. During the Avenger’s “Time Heist,” a youthful Lee zips past a U.S. Army base in 1970s New Jersey and shouts, “Hey, man! Make love, not war!” before speeding off into the horizon."

Insigne said he thought Lee’s cameo in “Endgame” was great because it fits the kind of man he was. “He always wanted to contribute to society, and he did that through entertainment, and I guess what he wanted to do in his life is to spread love through stories.”

Joe Russo, one of the directors of the film, confirmed it was Lee’s final cameo.

He told RadioTimes he thinks it’s a suitable endpoint, while his brother and co-director Anthony added, “It’s a miracle that he made it all the way to this moment for a cameo. I can’t believe that this will be his final movie.”

Lee said in an interview with The Washington Post once, “I used to be embarrassed because I was just a comic-book writer while other people were building bridges or going on to medical careers. Then I began to realize: entertainment is one of the most important things in people’s lives.

Without it, they might go off the deep end.

I feel that if you’re able to entertain people, you’re doing a good thing."

world & great joy inhabiting the ones you created! You made many believe in the good, the heroic, the villainous, the exciting, most of all, you were giving & gracious to us all..”

Hugh Jackman, who has played X-Men superhero Wolverine in 11 movies, wrote, “We’ve lost a creative genius. Stan Lee was a pioneering force in the superhero universe.

I’m proud to have been a small part of his legacy and to have helped bring one of his characters to life.”

“Ant-Man and the Wasp” actress Evangeline Lilly posted on Twitter, “Stan more than a master of stories, you always seemed like a master of living. I will look to you for inspiration for the rest of my life. You live on. xoxo, Your Wasp.”

Actor and comedian Seth Rogen tweets,

“Thank you Stan Lee for making people who feel different realize they are special.”

President of Marvel Studios Kevin Feige also expressed his gratitude for Lee in a statement on social media. “No one has had more of an impact on my career and everything we do at Marvel Studios than Stan Lee. Stan leaves an extraordinary legacy that will outlive us all. Our thoughts are with his daughter, his family and his millions of fans. #ThankYouStan #Excelsior!”

Celebrities celebrate his legacy Following Lee’s death, numerous celebrities took to Twitter to also express their feelings about his legacy and the inspiration he’s been to them.

Chris Evans, the actor who portrayed Captain America in the MCU, tweeted, “There will never be another Stan Lee. For decades he provided both young and old with adventure, escape, comfort, confidence, inspiration, strength, friendship and joy. He exuded love and kindness and will leave an indelible mark on so many lives. Excelsior!”

Mark Hamill, famous for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker in the “Star Wars” saga, tweeted, “His contribution to pop culture was revolutionary & cannot be overstated. He was everything you hoped he would be & MORE. I loved this man & will never stop missing him.

They say you should never meet a childhood idol. They are wrong. #RIPStanTheMan.” Samuel L. Jackson, who played Nick Fury in 10 MCU films, wrote, “Thank you @TheRealStanLee for the escape from this

Graphics by Brad Carbine

JUNE 2019

45

A man of many talents From teaching in Kahalu’u to hosting BYU–Hawaii events, alumnus tells how he landed airtime on national television

BY MACKENZIE BEAVER

46

KE ALAK A ‘I

Acting, teaching, entertaining, modeling, coaching and being on the cover of one of Oahu’s most read weekly publications, Midweek Magazine, are regular occurrences, said BYU–Hawaii alumnus Cody Easterbrook.

“Since graduation, I have shared my light through the various shows and projects I’ve been a part of, and I’ve received wonderful messages from viewers around the globe whose lives have been touched. It’s my small contribution, but I know every little bit counts.”

Easterbook was born and raised in Texas, but he said he now considers Hawaii his home.

He said the rich legacy of performers in his family who came before him inspired him to make a career in the entertainment industry.

“Laie is where my mother’s family is from, dating back to the old Hukilau days where my grandmother and great grandmother were dancers and entertainers for those first beachside luau celebrations that eventually became what we know as the Polynesian Cultural Center.”

From BYUH to the big screen Leialoha Paongo Pakalani, who works for human resources at LDS Philanthropies, was friends with Easterbrook while they were both students at BYUH. Pakalani said, “Cody is the quintessential renaissance man. He is brilliant, sensitive, gifted and articulate. He was the epitome of a great student, a master teacher and someone who refined joie de vivre (enjoyment of life).”

While at BYUH, Easterbrook was an emcee at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Vice President of Cultural Presentations at PCC Delsa Moe said she was close friends with Easterbrook and he has always been a fun, yet responsible employee.

“Whether he’s a dancer or emcee, he has a fun personality that easily influences employees and guests alike who enjoy his upbeat and friendly nature. He valued excellence and worked hard at his craft to ensure he was always doing his very best.”

She added she is proud to seem him continue his passion for acting and entertaining.

“Because of these traits, it’s no surprise Cody has done well as an actor on TV and in the movies.”

Left: Easterbrook's headshots. Above: Easterbrook with his parents on his graduation day.

Photos courtesy of Easterbrook

At the turn of the century in 2000, Easterbrook said he began his time at BYUH. He then took a two-year break to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Cochabamba, Bolivia.

In 2006, Easterbook finished up his schooling at BYUH and graduated with honors with a bachelor’s degree in international cultural studies and communications.

Easterbrook said along with being a member of many cultural clubs on campus, he “was always the man on the mic hosting all the campus activities including Culture Night, FoodFest and our campus and community singing competition, BYUH Idol.”

Hawaii Five-0 and the Emmys Since graduating from BYUH, Easterbrook said he has done nothing but take advantage of every opportunity put in his path. He added his “go-getting attitude” at BYUH stayed with him even after leaving the Seasiders.

Easterbrook said he always knew he wanted to work in television and film. After BYUH, Easterbook shared he began his acting career by landing roles in a variety of commercials and landing roles in primetime television shows and major motion pictures.

“One such role was playing Luke Pakele, a bull-riding cowboy on season five of the CBS hit drama, Hawaii Five-0.”

Before going into acting, Easterbook was a mentor for young students at Kahalu’u Elementary School. He said his main emphasis was about making learning fun.

After mentoring young students, Easterbrook was then asked to stay on as a kindergarten teacher at Kahalu’u. Easterbook said this experience as a student mentor and as a kindergarten teacher played a lead role in him hosting a nationally televised show for children, which was nominated for an Emmy.

“Having entertained audiences for years at BYUH and at the PCC, I was well prepared when I recently took on the role of host for a nationally televised kids show for NBC Universal.”

He explained he is the crafty host of “The Big Fun Crafty Show,” which is a kids crafting

Graphic by: Brad Carbine JUNE 2019 47

“He was the epitome of a great student, a master teacher and someone who refined joie de vivre (enjoyment of life).”

competition show and its first-season show was recognized by The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences with a Daytime Emmy Nomination for outstanding children’s programming.

“Of course, I got to walk the red carpet and was so honored to attend the 2019 Daytime Emmy awards. It is such a fun and creative show, and we were just honored for this wonderful accolade.”

According to Easterbook, the old saying goes, “If you do what you love, then you never work a day in your life.” Easterbrook said he has found his love and passion in entertaining audiences on stage, in a group, or on television, by sharing his light and energy with them, and he hopes to keep doing that as long as he can.

“I’m honored to count myself among those that fulfill David O. McKay’s prophetic vision, when he declared that “from this school… will go men and women whose influence will be felt for good towards the establishment of peace internationally.”

More information on alumnus Cody Easterbook can be found at codyeasterbrook.com and codyeasterbrook. com/news.

Easterbrook with actor Bill Murray.

Photo provided by Easterbrook 48

KE ALAK A ‘I

Religion JUNE 2019

49

Although addiction can seem impossible to overcome, experts say getting help is the first step to healing

BY HAELEY VAN DER WERF

Graphics by Brad Carbine

Addiction is a disease affecting not only the person involved, but also friends and family members as well. While it may sometimes feel like there is nothing an addict can do to help themselves, experts from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint’s Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) said recognizing the signs of addiction and getting the addict to accept help can begin the road to recovery.

One recovery program is the Addiction Recovery Program, which, according to the coordinator of the Laie recovery group, is a safe space where people can go to realize they are not alone and receive support.

Finding hope through the Atonement Addiction.ChurchofJesusChrist.org says, “Many who struggle with an addiction suffer from shame or a sense that they are unlovable.

They may feel discouragement and despair that recovery is not possible.Yet with God, nothing is impossible (see Luke 1:37). All can be healed and protected through Jesus Christ and His Atonement.

“For those of you who have fallen prey to any kind of addiction, there is hope because God loves all of His children and because the 50

KE ALAK A ‘I

Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ makes all things possible.”

Stephen Kittelson, a senior missionary and licensed therapist from Arizona who serves with Elder Lindsay Burton as group leaders for the Addiction Recovery Program at BYU–Hawaii, shared, “The first night [people] come, they are on the way to recovery. One misconception is there is no hope. People do recover. Some quicker than others. Sometimes it is lifelong vigilance to maintain recovery.

“The No. 1 thing we have heard a lot of people say is they’ve felt the Spirit stronger in those meetings than in sacrament meetings.

We had a bishop attend. He wore street clothes and just said his first name. Later he told me, ‘I’ve been in some spiritual meetings in my life, but nothing is as strong as these meetings.’

It’s the love of the Savior wanting to rescue his children.”

Addiction Recovery Program According to Kittelson, “The Church took Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) 12-step program, which has been very effective for years, and they modified it to Church standards. The difference is AA talks about a relationship

with a higher power while we talk about our relationship Jesus Christ and drawing on the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ in the healing process. There are quotes in [the manual] from the scriptures, the apostles, and general authorities.”

To participate in the Addiction Recovery Program on campus, Kittelson said, “They just show up. Everybody is invited … We have males and females attending who are struggling with addiction. The part that makes it most effective is it is a safe place to share. We strive for confidentiality and anonymity. We use first names only. When we see them on campus we don’t say, ‘It’s good to see you every Tuesday night.’

“We want people to feel like this is a place where they can get help. The cool thing to me is ARP is such a good support of each other.

They realize they are not alone. They are not struggling alone. It is a great support group.”

The program, he explained, has three parts. “We start with a prayer. We review the 12 steps. We study one step each night, rotating through all 12 steps. That’s the first half. The second half is sharing, kind of like a testimony meeting. People can share their thoughts and

feelings of how they’re doing with the step they’re working on or impressions they got from the reading that night.

“Sharing is optional. If they don’t feel like sharing or reading, they can just sit there quietly. We don’t force anybody to share. There’s no pressure. It’s inviting and supportive. The goal is to help them recover.

The manual is designed so everyone can work the steps at their own pace.”

There is also a spouse and family support group led by Sister Kathryn Kittelson and Sister Burton, which Kathryn Kittelson said is designed to, “Help them get a perspective on how they can be supportive without having to be the authoritarian in the family. Their job is not to cure the person, it is to support the person in their recovery.”

Defining addiction According to the Center on Addiction website, “Addiction is a complex disease, often chronic in nature, which affects the functioning of the brain and body. It also causes serious damage to families, relationships, schools, workplaces and neighborhoods.

“Some research suggests that … behavioral addictions involve similar changes in the brain, common risk factors and behaviors. They also show common responses to certain types of treatment. These findings suggest the possibility that addiction may be one disease with different forms or expressions.”

Stephen Kittelson explained, “When you define addiction, it is what takes you away from your normal, daily activities, and takes away your focus from relationships.

“Sometimes it starts with curiosity, like with pornography. Then they get hooked. They get hooked because of the chemical response ... Usually, most addictions are trying to fill an emotional void or are trying to mask or numb emotional pain.”

Signs of addiction The Center on Addiction writes, “The most common symptoms of addiction are severe loss of control, continued use despite serious consequences, preoccupation with using, failed attempts to quit, tolerance and withdrawal.”

According to Kittelson, people can recognize the signs of addiction in others when,

“People aren’t spending time with other people as much as they could or should. They become isolated.

“When people get into trouble, signs show up.You don’t see them as often.You notice there is something different, whether they're isolated for some reason, if you see them and they’re impaired, if they’ve been drinking, or if they’re on drugs.”

Getting help The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration writes, “Getting a loved one to agree to accept help and finding support services for all family members are the first steps toward healing for the addicted person and the entire family.

“When carefully prepared and done with the guidance of a competent, trained specialist, the family, friends and associates are usually able to convince their loved one – in a firm and loving manner – that the only choice is to accept help and begin the road to recovery.”

Kittelson shared how the Addiction Recovery Program works to help people get rid of the shame they feel so they can move on and heal. “A lot of people, when they first come in to recovery, feel a tremendous amount of shame. We try quickly to help them get over it … They feel like they are a bad person, it is in their DNA, and they are stuck and won’t recover. In addiction the brain changes. The good news is, because of a term known as ‘neuroplasticity,’ if the brain can change, it can also change back to its healthy self. And with the atonement of Jesus Christ, there is always hope!”

The Addiction Recovery Program has meetings every Sunday at 8 p.m. and every Tuesday at 9 p.m. in the high council room of the campus Stake Center. The Spouse and Family Support Group has a meeting every Sunday at 8 p.m. and every Tuesday at 9 p.m. in the Relief Society room. All are welcome to attend.

40 million Americans ages 12+ or more than one in seven people...

...abuse or are addicted to nicotine, alcohol or other drugs.

Approximately

16% of the U.S. population ages 12+ have substance problem.

This includes:

Nicotine (9%)

Alcohol (7%)

Illegal Drugs (2%)

Prescription Drugs (1%)

Note: Some people have more than one substance problem

JUNEon2019 Statistics provided by: Center Addiction 51

Graphic by Brad Carbine

The Book of Mormon comes to life on screen Being cast into the Book of Mormon video series is spiritually rewarding, says students

BY WILL KRUEGER According to LDS.org, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is producing Book of Mormon videos, similar to the Bible videos.

Production began in 2017 and currently, the Books of Mosiah and Alma are being filmed.

Students from BYU-Hawaii said they have been cast for shoots in the Hawaiian Islands.

Samuel Tobon, a sophomore majoring in business management from Colombia, said being cast in the Book of Mormon video series made by the Church is an honor and blessing.

52

KE ALAK A ‘I

“It’s bringing the scriptures alive. These videos will be around for years, and to be a part of this experience, even if it is just a small role, is a great opportunity.”

According to Tobon, filming for the Books of Mosiah and Alma will take place from June 11 to 22 in Kaua'i.

Veronica Davis, a sophomore majoring in communications from Oahu, shared how much of a blessing it is to be a cast member. “Reading the scriptures and imagining how we can bring

Graphic by Brad Carbine

it to life is amazing and a testimony builder. This is going to be a great experience. It’s going to be very spiritually rewarding. To think that one day, my kids will see this in Seminary is really cool.”

Being cast into the series Tobon said of the roles available and preparing for the series, “They were looking for people for smaller roles and extras. In our audition tapes, we were asked to send a video recording of us saying a few lines. We had help from some professors and used some resources here to prepare our applications.”

According to Tobon, emails were sent out informing people of their casting. “There are

several people here at school who have been accepted. We have been asked in the emails to stay spiritually fit. We have been encouraged to read these scriptures and understand how important this is.”

Mark Maslar, a freshman from California majoring in vocal performance, said, he both has a passion for acting the gospel so it is special to combine the two. He added he feels really grateful and blessed for this opportunity.

The application process Tobon said he learned of the opportunity through his involvement in the school musical last semester. “Kristl Densley, a professor came to us and said the casting director asked her to tell her students that a Book of Mormon video series is being made and that her students should audition. We were given a link and were encouraged to apply.”

Davis said she heard about the opportunity through her involvement in the school musical last semester. “Our director encouraged us all to apply. I thought there might be a chance if I just apply. I was also able to help other students prepare their auditions.”

Maslar added, “I saw posters around school and that got me interested in it. I knew it would be filmed here in Hawaii so I thought I would have a chance.

“When I was looking at the posters, I saw a link and followed it to find postings for different roles and how to apply. We were told to prepare a few pictures and we were given a few lines to recite in a video.”

Graphic by Lynne Hardy

"It's bringing the scriptures alive. These videos will be around for years, and to be a part of this experience, even if its just a small role is a great opportunity"

Graphic

by Diandra Mongan

JUNE 2019

53

Fathers and Saviors on Mount Zion Students, a faculty member and general authorities say men can prepare for marriage and fatherhood by honoring and exercising their priesthood

BY EMI WAINWRIGHT The power and protection of the priesthood Eteru said he grew up with a single mother the first few years of his life so he has been able to see firsthand the difference having a priesthood holder in the home can make. “When I didn’t have a father there, we would go to my uncle’s, but later, when I did have my dad, it was different. It was easier. We had a representative of Jesus Christ in the house. It’s a powerful thing.

“The priesthood gives us access to power that cannot be obtained in any other way.

Obviously, there are things like prayer and scripture study can help you out... but when you have a priesthood holder in the home, you have God’s power readily accessible at any time.”

Setting a Christ-like example Priesthood holders who honoring their priesthood by living righteously strengthens families, says members of the BYUH Ohana. Photo from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Photo courtesy of the Church

Husband and wife have an equal responsibility to love and care for each other and their children, according to “The Family: A Proclamation to the World.” It states, “By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families.”

Honoring the priesthood

Liel Maala, a BYU–Hawaii Religion instructor, said there are great blessings that come from having the priesthood in the home.

“I think is very important to understand is that being ordained to the priesthood is also a commission to become the Savior's representative in your marriage and your family.”

Maala continued, “If my family is to be saved, it will be through my leadership as the presiding priesthood authority in the home, leading them to Jesus Christ who is the source of that salvation and exaltation. So, essentially, we 54

KE ALAK A ‘I

as fathers stand as ‘Saviors on Mount Zion’ for our families.

He added the greatest gift that comes from priesthood leadership is being able to lead a family, in partnership with my wife, “towards eternal life and exaltation through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.”

Mahonri Eteru, a freshman from Australia with an undeclared major, said when he thinks about honoring the priesthood, he sees the image of Heavenly Father. “He’s a very loving person. Because He loves us, He gave us the priesthood and wants us to be the best that we can be. He wants us to follow His example... and become like Him. “Showing that same kind of love to other people by honoring my priesthood through service and ministering has helped me become a better person,” he continued. “And when I go through trials, I know it’s because Heavenly Father is trying to teach me and prepare me for what’s ahead.”

Doctrine and Covenants 121 says, “No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned.”

Maala shared he hopes the way he lives, especially how he treats his wife and others, will allow his sons to come to know more about the Savior. “Although I am far from perfect, I am striving to develop those Christ-like attributes that are promised to those who seek them.

“I know it is a lofty ideal, but it is not impossible because we have the Father’s love, the Savior’s grace, and the sanctifying power of the Holy Ghost.”

Adam Jonsson, a senior from Sweden majoring in business management and finance, said his dad is an example to him. “He’s the most loving man I know. He is extremely caring of others. If there’s a project that needs to be done, he would be committed to it… He’s very service-oriented. I’ve never heard him talk ill about others.

“I think that’s the core of the gospel, to understand the priesthood is to have a love for

the children of God. That’s definitely something I’ve learned from my dad. I try to live up to it.

He has big shoes for me to fill and a very big heart. He does good for others simply because it’s the right thing to do.”

Maala shared an experience he had with his father when he was very young. “My dad was serving as the president of a small branch in my hometown in the Philippines. Most of the members in our tiny branch were very poor. In fact, nobody owned a car.

“One Christmas Eve, my dad took me on his motorcycle to visit some members. I still remember a big basket strapped at the very end of the motorcycle with 10 or so plastic bags, each containing about two kilos of both rice and meat.”

Maala said his father told him they were bringing the food to the poorest families in their branch so they would have something to eat for dinner that Christmas Eve. “I will never forget the smiles… [and] the tears on the faces of those we visited. Most of them would have gone to bed hungry that night was it not for… a priesthood holder being moved with compassion in carrying out his duties as the branch president.

“To this day I still remember the feeling of joy that was seared into my young mind after we visited those families on Christmas Eve. I’m glad I got to witness that tender experience. It created a deep impression in my mind on what the priesthood is all about. It’s about doing what the Savior himself would do if he were here today.”

Temple sealings and being equally yoked in marriage Maala said he sees priesthood power and authority as a partnership with not only God but his wife, who he has been sealed to in the temple. “As I continue to mature and improve in my discipleship and in my understanding of the priesthood, I have come to realize that what the Apostle Paul said is really true: ‘Neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord’ (1 Cor. 11:11).

“I see it as a partnership, being a priest and priestess and a king and queen in the Kingdom of God. I like to see it as a principle that's ‘compound in one,’ the man and the woman jointly leading and jointly presiding in the family.”

Jonsson said, “Holding the priesthood is

“I think that’s the core of the gospel, to understand the priesthood is to have a love for the children of God. That’s definitely something I’ve learned from my dad.” one thing, but to honor it is another. If you’re not honoring it, it’s not really making a difference in your life… Striving to stay worthy and being responsible with the power God has given you definitely helps prepare you for marriage.”

Eteru, when asked why he thinks it is important for a priesthood holder to surround himself with righteous women, said, “Men wouldn’t be the men they are without the great women in their lives.”

He said having priesthood keys doesn’t automatically mean a man has all the power. “I think my mum contributes a lot to the power that my dad can use. Without her helping him refine his understanding of the priesthood and how to use it properly, I don’t think he would be the priesthood holder he is today. The power wouldn’t be as great if she wasn’t there to help him become better.”

Jonsson said the support of his wife encourages him to live up to the expectations that have been placed upon him as a priesthood holder and son of God. “Kathleen reminds me of my responsibilities. She’s my rock. She has so much faith and encourages us to pray together. It helps a lot to have someone by my side who has the same values as I do.”

His wife, Kathleen, a senior from Idaho majoring in clinical psychology, was quick to add, “It’s absolutely a partnership. I think we overlook that sometimes. In marriage, we are one, even when it comes to the priesthood.”

Maala said, “My wife supports me in my priesthood functions not just by taking care of the house and the kids while I am in meetings, but more importantly, she gives valuable insights and counsel as she proactively shares her inspired ideas and perspectives. Faithful women are naturally more inclined and in tune to spiritual things, thus they are great contributors of inspired ideas.”

Eteru agreed, saying, “Women in their own right have access to powers in heaven. I think they’re very special to God. He’s willing to give them what they need when they need it.

Womanhood… especially motherhood and the

priesthood, when they go hand-in-hand. They make the perfect combination.”

Providing for the family spiritually In his talk published in the May 1999 edition of the Ensign, Elder D. Lee Tobler says there are families in every ward and branch without the priesthood. He says in these families there are husbands and fathers waiting for a supportive invitation to prepare to bear the Melchizedek Priesthood.

He shared, “These are men who, through our teaching and nurturing, can be made capable to bear that priesthood. They can be fathers of revelation and guidance to their families. They can be fathers who give blessings to their own children, who baptize them and confirm them.

“Husband and wife will go to the temple, and they will take their children to the temple to be sealed together for time and all eternity. They will ordain their sons to the priesthood, and they will bless their sons and daughters in sickness and in health.”

Tobler continues, “Most of them are already good providers to their families in a temporal sense. They must now learn how to provide for their families in an eternal spiritual sense.”

Kathleen Jonsson said her father is a convert. “Growing up, my dad wasn’t in the Church, but he took the lessons when I was little.You could tell the gospel made a difference in his life, and receiving the priesthood gave him the love he needed for God and our family to see that he was taking care of us in the way God wanted him to.

“He recognized that he’d been given this power to bless our family and the lives of other people. He’s not perfect.You should hear his dad jokes! But he definitely strives. That’s the beauty of being blessed with the priesthood. It enables anyone to become better.

“My father was a great man before becoming a member, but I’m glad he joined the Church and was able to receive those blessings for himself and for us.”

Tobler concluded, “Families, where the priesthood is honored and exercised, will be able to endure the… [pressures of the world] and become eternal families. And in the process, individual members of families will have been perfected and prepared for the rewards of the faithful.

JUNE 2019

55

Girls pull the handcarts up a hill during the sister’s pull on Thursday oat Gunstock Ranch to remember the women who crossed the plains by themselves.

Photo by Mark Lee

Battalion of the Lord Youth and leaders taking part in Trek say the experience pays tribute to the hardship experienced by the early pioneers

BY ELIJAH HADLEY AND J. ESTON DUNN III After a year of planning and coordination, about 300 youth from the Laie and Kahului West Maui stakes participated in a pioneer Trek.

Youth and their leaders said the first youth Trek in Hawaii gave them greater faith because of the bonds they were able to forge as trek families and the lessons they learned about early Church pioneers, handcart pioneers and pioneering Church members from the Pacific and Asia areas.

More than 30 Trek families gathered with their handcarts in the meadow of Gunstock 56

KE ALAK A ‘I

Ranch in Laie on June 4 for the inaugural night of Trek. The youth said they left their cellphones and the luxury of air conditioning for an experience many of them had never had before.

Among the Laie community members who served as Ma’s and Pa’s on the Trek were BYUHawaii Associate Professor of Communications Mason Allred and his wife, Erika Allred. They were in charge of a family that consisted of 10 youth. Erika Allred expressed her excitement about being part of the first youth Trek in

Hawaii. “I feel really privileged to be a part of it since it’s the 100-year anniversary of the Laie Temple. I think it’s a good time to celebrate.”

Allred said she considers herself and her parents pioneers in their own right, due to the fact both her parents were converts to the Church.

Talking about starting out on the Trek that first day, she said, “I’m a little scared, not going to lie. I’m not a camper, so this is the longest I’ll ever be camping for, and I like adventures, so I think it will be fun,” she added with a laugh.

As to the Ma and Pa partnership with her husband, Mason, Allred said, “I feel like being out here with my husband is no different. We always work together anyway, so I think this will be a nice way to show kids how marriage is not just women or men doing all the work. We can both work together to do great things.”

In the Allred’s Trek family was Tehani Tevaga, a youth from the Laie stake who acted as the family’s “big sister.” She is also the daughter of BYUH Director of Communications Laura Tevaga. She said she and her family once joked about there being a Trek in Hawaii but never thought she would actually be able to go on one. “This Trek is going to bless the community of Laie by letting the youth make better friendships and strengthening their relationship with the Lord.

“We were asked to bring two pioneer stories on Trek, and one of them is about my great-great-grandfather, who was one of the original Iosepa pioneers who went from Tahiti to New Zealand.

“Even though this Trek isn’t exactly what my ancestors experienced, I can still understand what they went through, and understand the pull of the Church, why my great-great-grandfather would be so dedicated.”

Following a torrential downpour, the youth and their Trek parents gathered in the center of the meadow as the sun receded past the horizon as the night’s activities began. Consisting of a series of vignettes portrayed by youth and adults, they told the story of the prophet Joseph Smith, along with stories of pioneers taken from first-hand accounts of the Willie and Martin handcart companies.

Legacy and luaus After the long, arduous hike during the third day of Trek, the youth said they were ready for a little relaxation. According to Tevaga, the two hardest parts of the day had been the women’s pull and the river crossing.

In the women’s pull, all of the female youth and leaders took responsibility for the handcarts while the boys and men went off up the hill.

This was supposed to represent the women who journeyed to Zion, despite losing their husbands, fathers and brothers.

“It was the biggest hill we had, too,” Tevaga added. “It was a lot of fun, and it came to all of us as a surprise. After doing the women’s push,

Youth from Laie and Kahului West Maui stakes were divided into Trek families with a couple acting as their Trek Ma and Pa. Photo by Ho Yin Li

I feel really independent. At first, I didn’t take it seriously and didn’t realize how difficult it was going to be.

“From the pull, I learned a lot about the male-female relationship, along with the river crossing,” Tevaga said. “They explained how men and women both have their strengths and work together to support one another in whichever ways they can.”

Mason Allred shared how it was beneficial for the youth to be in an environment without access to technology. “As a communications professor, I always warn my students about the dangers of social media and technology as something that, while good, can make people less personable.

“It’s really amazing to see how these kids came together,” Allred added. “In the river crossing, all the guys stepped up and carried the girls across. I didn’t have to do too much work.

I just took Erika and let them do the rest.”

Feeling enthusiastic about his experience at Trek, Shamus Fitzgerald, a youth from New Zealand, commented Trek “was a team effort . . . My dad back at home always wanted me to help people and to be humble, and I could hear his voice telling me to keep pushing all through today.”

Among the guests at the hoedown were several female descendants of the saints who went to Utah to be closer to a temple and created the Iosepa settlement. After several performances of hula, one of them, Amanda Lyman, spoke about the importance of legacy.

Lyman encouraged the youth assembled

to both live a legacy, and to leave a legacy.

“Someone who loves you and cares for you very much bestowed upon you a name that would bring comfort, protection, and guidance as you made your way through this life.

“But of all these, the name that I, that we are expected to bear with utmost reverence is the name of Jesus Christ.” Lyman continued by talking about her Grandma Genoa Keawe, who was a talented singer, and said her current singing ability was a part of her grandmother’s legacy. She then sang as a tribute to her grandmother.

Swimming, singing, and a surprise Following a day of rest and swimming at Hukilau Beach, the youth on the Trek were called back for an evening luau featuring music, devotionals, and an unexpected surprise guest.

Also that night local families dressed in white surrounded the youth and their Trek leaders serenading them. Following the previous days’ activities, David Smith, 13, from Hauula took a moment to reflect on his journey.

“I really can’t believe how far I’ve come.

I think the biggest lesson I’ve learned so far is making my friends my family and my family my friends. I’ve made so many great connections in just a few days, and there’s this feeling I cannot really explain. It must be my testimony.”

The mystery guest turned out to be President Dallin H. Oaks, the First Counselor of the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. President Oaks entered into the performance area, dressed in JUNE 2019

57

an aloha shirt and white lei, holding the hand of his wife, Kristen. Accompanied by BYUH President John Tanner and his wife, Susan Tanner, he took a seat in front of the youth, smiling warmly at the sight of those gathered.

After he was introduced to the youth, President Oaks stood up and walked to the microphone. With a thunderous “Aloha,” his deep baritone voice carried its way to the ears of all those assembled. He told the youth, “You’ve not only learned about your ancestors, including your parents who have serenaded us and have met you here so appropriately, but you’ve also learned something about yourself - your ability to withstand hardship. You’ve also put yourself in a position where you can understand the promptings of the Holy Spirit which come to us when we are humble and sometimes when we make sacrifices. “ President Oaks emphasized, “You’ve learned something about yourself. Build on that for years to come. Don’t be satisfied with being mediocre or ordinary. Don’t yield to the temptations of the world when they are contrary to what your Heavenly Father would do for you. Set your eyes up high and go on.”

Mahea Napoleon, 14, from Hauula, said, “I liked how his talk was short and simple. It really served to encourage me and the other youth to be active in our lives because the Second Coming is coming soon. It’s nice he was so direct. I just feel so whole right now, despite the mixed emotions, It’s just really hard to explain. The surprise of President Oaks coming made everything more special.”

Lisa Hannemann, who was put in charge of the Trek by the Laie Hawaii Stake, said at the Friday night hoedown, “You may not all have pioneer ancestors in the traditional sense, but you, the youth are all pioneers.You have already spent the last few days doing some incredibly hard things, and because of your sacrifice, I hope you learned what your ancestors might have felt, and you’ll be able to understand why they gave everything to come to Zion.”

Missionaries in Polynesia The youth participating in the Trek had the opportunity to celebrate their own Polynesian pioneer ancestors by visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center on June 7. The youth were called on missions to the island nations of Polynesia where local leaders and pioneers talked about building Zion in those missions.

58

KE ALAK A ‘I

About 300 youth and their Trek families pulled handcarts through the hills and valleys of Gunstock Ranch down to the BYUH campus and then over to Hukilau Beach. The 40 handcarts were also built before the Trek by the youth and their leaders Photo by Mark Lee

“I really can’t believe how far I’ve come. I think the biggest lesson I’ve learned so far is making my friends my family and my family my friends.”

“A lot of these youth come from the islands and this activity at the PCC recognizes their personal treks. This portion is about Polynesian pioneers. Everyone has their own story to learn about their pioneer ancestry in their islands and families that modeled the way we live today,” said David Aupiu, a stake leader for the Tongan mission.

Janee Niutupuivaha, a youth from Hauula, said on the experience, “It just makes me love all of our cultures more, [by understanding] how many people have sacrificed a lifetime's worth of work to do all these buildings of the church.”

Elias Ululave, a youth from Laie, said, “It’s a lot of rich history. In thinking of the impact, we go for the people proceeding us. When we go out [on missions], we carry on what they taught us. Trek is a challenge, and it helps to unify strangers and take us out of our comfort zones. I really appreciate our leaders whom we don’t take for granted.”

A walk to remember During the Trek, leaders reminded the youth that President Gordon B. Hinckley had purchased Gunstock Ranch so they could use it as a reminder of the blessings from the Lord.

As the sun rose on the morning of June 8, the youth and their Trek families walked up Hale La’a Boulevard from Temple Beach to the temple at the end of the road. Solemnly and silently they walked, watched by temple missionaries, the pioneer reenactors and posters of early pioneers of the Church, handcart pioneers and Church member pioneers from Asia and the Pacific regions.

As the youth walked around the right of the temple, they weaved their way around Laie.

Their final destination ended up being the Laie Cemetery. As they silently entered into the graveyard, they and their Trek families were led to a gravesite, where a relative of the deceased told the story of their ancestors. Among those buried in the Laie Cemetery are Iosepa saints who went to Utah but then returned to the islands to help build the temple here in Laie.

At the final devotional by the cemetery and capping off their trek, Hannemann remarked how “through the Holy Ghost, your ancestors and those who love on both sides of the veil, we’ve felt them as we’ve planned Trek this past year, and they’re anxious for you to have a testimony about the gospel’s truthfulness and want you to make their family continue forever.”

The companies then split up for individual testimony meetings, which lasted about an hour. Youth and leaders were free to share their feelings about their experiences and how they had been changed. Mason Allred, in bearing his testimony to his Trek family and the surrounding families of the company, said, “I love my family, and I’m grateful to have been your Pa. It’s been so much fun walking with you and getting to know all of you. Don’t be afraid to be different. Don’t be afraid to be weird to the world. I testify you have a perfect father and mother in heaven who love you perfectly.”

When the testimony meeting was over and it came time to go back to Hukilau for breakfast, Tevaga said, “Wherever my ancestors are, I think they are proud of me. I know I did Trek for a reason, and it was more than just for me to benefit myself. I hope I remember this for the rest of my life and never forget the lessons I learned from my family in all our trials.”

Feeling enthusiastic about his experience at Trek, Shamus Fitzgerald, a youth from New Zealand, said Trek “was a team effort . . . My dad back at home always wanted me to help people and to be humble, and I could hear his voice telling me to keep pushing all through today.”

Above: Laie Hawaii Stake President Aaron Shumway and his wife, May, walk through the Laie Cemetery with the youth on the last day of Trek. Photo by Chad Hsieh. Below, President Dallin Oaks and his wife, Kristen, surprised people on the Trek by attending the Friday night activity at Hukilau Beach. Photo by Ho Yin Li

JUNE 2019

59

Photo by Cameron Gardner Fa’alenuu Akeripa, with his two children Kaisa (left) and Lola (right). Read about how Akeripa balances fatherhood and school in a story on p. 20.

Photo by Victor Olesen