Ke Alaka'i - February 2021

10 CELEBRATING 100 YEARS HISTORIC FLAG RAISING

26 20 FUN FACTS ABOUT BYUH 34 LEGACY OF DEDICATION BARBARA ELKINGTON

FEBRUARY 2021 • VOLUME 128 • ISSUE 2

LeeAnn Lambert ADVISER

Hailey Huhane EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Emmalee Bazar MANAGING EDITOR

Katie Mower ART DIRECTOR

Serena Dugar Ioane COPY EDITOR

Abbie Putnam COPY EDITOR

Sydney Hyer COPY EDITOR

Sadie Madriaga ART &GRAPHICS

Hannah Manalang ART &GRAPHICS

Karren Chang ART &GRAPHICS

Alexander Tumalip MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

Lisi Tiafau MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

McKenzie Connell MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

Xyron Levi Corpuz MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

Alexandra Clendenning MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

Mark Tabbilos PHOTOGRAPHER

Ulziibayar Badamdorj PHOTOGRAPHER

© 2021 Ke Alaka‘i BYU–Hawaii All Rights Reserved

L E T T E R FROM THE A D V I S E R This year marks 20 years I have worked at BYU–Hawaii, and also 100 years since a historic flag raising at Laie Elementary School that inspired David O. McKay to envision a multicultural university here. Over the two decades I have been at BYUH, I have worked with hundreds of student journalists from all around the world.

Together we have written thousands of stories about the people and events that have happened during the more than 150 years since the Saints first came to Laie.

It has been inspiring to learn and share these stories, and that legacy continues in this February 2021 issue. It commemorates the flag raising memorialized on the front of the McKay complex in the often-photographed mosaic mural. The mural symbolizes the prophetic nature of BYUH, and now we look back on the last century of Laie, the University, and most importantly the people who have made, and continue to make, this spot of the North Shore a place where millions have come to learn about and feel the aloha spirit.

In this issue, the Kalama sisters, Napua Baker and Theresa Meyers Ducret, share the importance of the temple and of sharing aloha (pg. 22). David Furuto (pg. 38), Charles Goo (pg. 14), Cy Bridges (pg. 46) and others, talk about the early days of Laie: Life working on the plantation, running the local store, and growing up in a community rich in spirit, history and culture. And BYUH Professors Alohalani Housman and Mason Allred talk about how they have seen McKay’s vision unfold in Laie (pg. 40).

While we look back at the past in this issue, we also look forward to sharing more stories of how members of the community and the BYUH ohana are continuing Laie’s legacy today.

- LeeAnn Lambert NEWS CENTER BOX 1920

BYUH LAIE, HI 96762 Print Ser vices Editorial, photo submissions

CONTACT E m a i l : ke a l a ka i @ b y u h. e d u P ho n e : (8 0 8 ) 6 7 5 -3 6 9 4

Fax: (808) 675-3491 Office: BYU–Hawaii Aloha Center 134 ON THE COVER:

& distribution inquiries:

Photograph of the flag ceremony where President David O.

k e a l a k a i @ by u h . e d u .

Mckay had his vision for what would become BYU–Hawaii.

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 .

Graphics added by Katie Mower.

ON THE BACK: Two children raise a flag in Laie.

Photos provided by BYUH Archives.

ABOUT 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 20 students work to provide information for BYU–Hawaii’s campus ohana and Laie’s community.

C O N T E N T S

Table of

4 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

6 7 8

10

Photo Submission Campus Comments Genuine Gold: Tserennyam Sukhbaatar

Celebrating 100 Years David O. Mckay Historic Flag Raising

14 18 22 26 28 31 32

Goo’s Old Plantation Store Old Student Housing Sisters Spreading Aloha 20 Fun Facts about BYUH Courtside Memories Laie’s Favorite Pake Cake Shaka Steel History

34

Legacy of Dedication: Barbara Elkington

38 40 42 46 49 52 54

Plantations on Oahu Witnesses of Mckay’s Vision Historical Sports: Volleyball Connecting Generations Fa’afetai, BYU–Hawaii Farmer Girl: Akane Sasaki Preserving History

FEB .

2021

F E B RUA RY 2021 5

C R E AT I V E W R I T I NG/ AR T/ PHOTO S UBM I S S I ON

“Scream at the Great Wave under the Starry Sky”

By Jessa Cabrera, a freshman majoring in accounting from the Philippines.

Share your art, photos, or creative writing with us to be featured in our next issue.

E-mail us your high-resolution photo or work with a caption at: kealakai@byuh.edu.

FOL L OW US A ROUND T HE W EB

KE A L A K A I . BY UH . E D U

6 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

CAMPUS C O M M E N T S Wh a t is o n e t h in g you wo u ld s ay to P res id en t Dav id O. McKay if yo u m e t h i m d ur in g t h e 1921 flag ceremony?

BY L I SI T I A FAU

Fong Shing Wu , a sophomore from Hong Kong majoring in exercise science, said he would thank President McKay for the blessings BYU–Hawaii has given to him and many other students from around the wor ld. “Thank you for your vision for BYUH. Not only on that day, but the many years that will follow.” He added, “I appreciate you!”

Hani tua Tii hiva Ta kotua, a sophomore from Tahiti majoring in elementary education, said she is grateful for President McKay’s belief in the University. “I would say thank you for his care, love and blessing to BYUH and the promise he gave to the people allowing many students from all around the world to gather in one place and receive an affordable education.”

Angel Annie Fafai, a sophomore from Samoa majoring in biochemistry, said, “I’m grateful for the inspiration President McKay felt to recommend a church school of higher education to be built in Laie.” She also said she would have taken a picture with him as a souvenir.

Tekaei Ter ur ua Tei ti kai , a sophomore from Kiribati majoring in business management and finance, said, “I would say to him that I am grateful for all his hard work and dedication to BYUH, and that it has become a great place for many international students to be able to get an education. Thank you, President David O. McKay.”

Graphics by Katie Mower.

F E B RUA RY 2021 7

“I found my passion. ... I love marketing and things related to marketing,” Tserennyam Sukhbaatar said.

Photo provided by Tserennyam Sukhabaatar

Genu ine Gold: Tserennyam Su khbaa tar

BY S EREN A D UG A R IOA N E

B

YU–Hawaii alumnus and the Mongolia Ulaanbaatar West Stake President Tserennyam Sukhbaatar advised students to find mentors and learn from them. He said he wants to “help others to raise their bars and change the world to be a better place.”

When did you attend BYUH and what did you study?

“I attended from 2010 to 2012 and majored in marketing and supply chain and got an entrepreneurship certificate.”

What was your career and educational journey after BYUH? “Right after my graduation, I became a head of the marketing department of the BSB Service LLC, which was the 8 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

largest retailer of consumer electronics in Mongolia. A month before my graduation, I signed my contract with them online.

“In 2016, I was accepted as an MBA student at the Woodbury School of Business, Utah Valley University and moved to Utah with my family. After my MBA, I was working as a marketing director for K-Designers, Salt Lake City, Utah.

“While working there, I got a job offer from a Caterpillar dealer in Mongolia. So, I moved back to Ulaanbaatar and started my career as the director of analytics and innovation, Wagner Asia Equipment LLC. I have been working here since February 2018 and doing all kinds of marketing and market research activities.”

What special memories do you have from your student years?

“One day, I was walking through the McKay hallway. I saw a student and was shocked. We were both shocked and excited. That student was my investigator when I was a full-time missionary in Seoul, Korea. My companion and I had taught all the lessons and baptized him.

“He became less active when I left Korea. It was so sad at that time. I almost cried when I saw him at BYUH. I was doing my best to hold my tears. We laughed and hugged. That was so beautiful.

“I found out that he felt the Spirit when he met his brothers after his mission. After I had left Korea, this Korean brother became active and came to BYUH to pursue higher education.

“He was not able to speak English when we had first met in Korea. We both had

graduated in the same year, 2012. He had returned to Korea after his graduation.”

What advice would you give to current and graduating students at BYUH? “Find your mentor and stick with him or her while you are in BYUH. Brother Mike Sudlow, who was in the Admissions office, was my mentor. He was about 70 years old.

“I met him regularly and asked for his advice for my business plan and career. He reviewed my proposals so many times and spent hours with me. I got excited and energized every time after meeting him.

After my graduation, we became business partners. I always thank him. He is an awesome man with great wisdom!”

What blessings have you seen from attending BYUH? “BYUH opened my eyes. I felt like I was in Asia when I had first landed in Hawaii. It was very different from mainland U.S.A.; Japanese magazines on the street, Japanese speaking salesmen, Asians and Polynesians were everywhere. Everybody was so calm and relaxing.

“Asian and Polynesian students grow here spiritually, intellectually, physically and financially. Students can see their blessings when they return to their homes. They can easily compare their before and after school life. [It is] a huge difference.

“I saw professors serving in the temple when I was serving in the Laie Hawaii Temple as a temple guardian. That was such a great blessing to see them there. The BYUH faculty was awesome. Learning from these Christ-like people was a wonderful blessing to me. They are my friends, mentors and guiding stars.”

What were some of your life-defining moments?

“I found my passion. One day, I took the MBTI test at the BYUH Career Services.

The test result was ENFJ, and I was so excited. I jumped high and ran away to my home. I had felt that this was the one I was looking for.

“A year later, I had retaken the test to confirm. It confirmed so many things to me and inspired me to write my business plan.

During my studies, I studied psychology and MBTI on my own. I had met professors who knew everything about this psychological method and took their advice. I read about all the necessary books and articles to find out more.

“It was a way I was finding my passion and myself. Eventually, I found it. It was all about what that test had suggested. I love marketing and things related to marketing.

Later on, I won second place in the Empower Your Dreams Competition with my business plan.”

What did you learn at BYUH that you have taken with you?

“Besides education, I would say the English language, confidence, integrity and an alumni network.”

How did attending BYUH help build your testimony?

“Other students, professors and employees’ examples helped me to build my testimony stronger. I saw them in service. I saw them in the temple. I saw them in the church callings. I saw them at their work and school.

They were great. Their attitude, actions and examples taught me so many things.”

What are some challenges in your life?

“When I was studying, I was always so busy and broke because I did double majors just within two years while building my family. So, I didn’t enjoy Hawaii as much as I wanted. Now, I realize that those challenges were blessings to me and my family. Heavenly Father had a different plan.

I still want to go back to Hawaii sometime again and do the things I had missed.

“Now, I’m married with four children.

Some people may say raising children could be challenging. However, I would say it is fun. It is such a joyful thing. Now, I would like to contribute as much as possible to my community, Church service and the next generation.”

nice. Their leadership skills were awesome, very fun and spiritual. It was so different from the rest of the world.

“A different cultural environment with different nationalities gave me a whole new insight to see people and life. Later on, it helped me to figure out some communication issues in business and my life.”

What did you learn from your working experience in Mongolia?

“I was able to work with many different world-known brands, such as Apple, Dell, Samsung, LG, Panasonic, Toshiba, Electrolux, Caterpillar and so on. All these top brands and company managements were different.

People were different, their attitudes were different and their goals were different.

“So, I was able to learn about how they managed their supply chain, marketing activities, branding, and negotiating their prices and deals. Also, soft skills would be very helpful when you work in a multicultural environment.”

What are your future goals?

“I always wanted to be the best in the field of marketing, still working on it. Keep learning, researching and practicing it. I may study for a Ph.D. but haven’t decided yet. I want to help others to raise their bars and change the world to be a better place.”

What is your hobby?

“When I have leisure time, I like to play soccer and write poems.” •

What did you learn from your working experience at BYUH? “The PCC and BYUH gave me great work experiences. Managers, supervisors and employees’ attitudes were different from other places. They were very kind and F E B RUA RY 2021 9

100 YRS

BYU–Hawaii commemorates the anniversary of

David O. McKay’s historic flag raising ceremony BYUH students share being a part of McKay’s vision blessed their lives and others before them

BY S E R E NA D UGAR IOAN E

T

he creation of BYU–Hawaii was envisioned by President David O. McKay 100 years ago on Feb. 7, 1921 at a flag raising ceremony at the Laie Elementary School. At the groundbreaking and dedication of the Church College of Hawaii, later BYUH, President McKay said, “This is the beginning of the realization of a vision I saw 34 years ago when one morning ... I witnessed a flag raising ceremony by students of the Church school … in Laie,” according to the foundational speech on BYUH’s website.

In the book “Miracle in the Pacific,” it describes the ceremony where 127 children, ages seven to 14, were all lined up. William Ka’a’a, a fullblooded Hawaiian, stepped out and said,

“Hats off!

Along the street there comes A blare of bugles, A ruffle of drums, A splash of color beneath the sky, Hats off! The flag is passing by.”

Continuing the ceremony, Thomas Waddoups, a young haole, spoke:

10 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

“That ceremony brought tears to my eyes. Truly the melting pot, ...

What an example in th is little place of the purposes of our Father in Heaven to unite all peoples by the gospel of Jesus Christ. … That was a Church sc hool, and we visualized the possibilities of making this … the center of the education of the people Above: The flag raising ceremony at Laie Elementary School on Feb. 7, 1921.

Left: President David O. McKay and his wife upon their reception in Hawaii.

Photos provided by BYUH Archives.

Graphics by Katie Mower.

F E B RUA RY 2021 11

“Now raise the starry banner up, Emblem of our country’s glory, And teach the children of this land Its grave and wondrous story; Of how in early times it waved High o’er the Continentals, Who fought and made our country free, The one true home of liberty.”

As the flag reached the top of the flag pole, Otokochi Matsumoto, a Japanese boy, continued the chant:

“Salute the flag, oh children, With grave and reverent hand, For it means far more than the eye can see, Your home and your native land.

And many have died for its crimson bars, Its field of blue with the spangled stars.”

The whole crowd, children and adults, then joined in unison, echoing the Pledge of Allegiance. Afterwards, William Ka’a’a concluded by saying,

“This flag that now waves o’er our school, Protecting weak and strong, Is the flag that vindicates the right And punishes the wrong.”

12 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

The book says McKay was touched by the ceremony, and he later wrote, “That ceremony brought tears to my eyes. Truly the melting pot. ... What an example in this little place of the purposes of our Father in Heaven to unite all peoples by the gospel of Jesus Christ. … That was a Church school, and we visualized the possibilities of making this … the center of the education of the people of these islands.”

Kierra Lopis, a junior from Taiwan majoring in TESOL, said, “I always feel the Holy Spirit when I read the dedicatory prayer of President David O. McKay. I feel very honored to be part of the fulfillment of his vision. At the same time, I feel privileged to be here to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the McKay flag raising ceremony.”

In an article by Church News, it says, “[President McKay] saw an institution of higher learning that would bring students together from all across the globe, and then send them back as learners, leaders and builders in their respective countries.”

Fulfillment of McKay’s vision Thirty-four years later, President McKay’s vision began to come to life on Feb. 12, 1955, he explained in his speech. In his dedicatory prayer, he blessed the school to produce genuine gold students “whose influence will be felt for good towards the establishment of peace internationally,” according to BYUH Archives. International Student Advisor Ted Guildner said, “Since the school was established, BYUH educated students from over 100 different countries.” He explained, on average, there are students from 70 to 72 different countries each semester.

Otgonbileg Bataa, a junior from Mongolia majoring in finance, said, “McKay’s vision and creation of BYUH blessed so many people’s lives. Thousands of BYUH alumni living around the world make this world a better place continually, just like he prophesied.”

Tyson Hunter, a Fall 2020 finance graduate from California, said David O. McKay’s vision, at the time, must have seemed farfetched to those around him. “With travel not being nearly as accessible as it is today and not to mention it wasn’t even a state yet, it is incredible that he had so much faith in the vision he had and the prophecy that left his lips.

“It is amazing to see what the Lord has done and is doing to fulfill that prophecy as the Church expands to more countries. Laie provides a place for many people to come to school to gain education and increase their faith.”

Hunter said it shows that God has no bounds, and the prophets’ words will come to pass. “I look forward to seeing how this prophecy will continue to unfold, and I am so happy I get to be a part of it.”

Former president of BYUH, John Tanner, said, “I see a Zion university, a place where people from many nations learn together in purity, peace, unity and love.”

Lopis shared, “Because we are all determined to gain an education, God has brought us here from different countries. Just like the devotional talk, ‘We Are the Vision,’ given by Kieiki and Paliku Kahalepuna in 2005, I can feel that I am part of his vision.

Everyone who comes to study here is part of his vision.”

Tomoyuki Akiyama, a Fall 2020 marketing graduate from Japan, said, “I witnessed students from all over the world studying here in harmony. They improve and learn together at BYUH despite their differences. They teach me how important the gospel is and education is.”

Remembering the mission Bataa shared he passes by the flag circle every time he goes to work and sees the flags and mosaic mural, which helps him remember the significance of McKay’s vision and his duty to fulfill it. “I believe the reason why the mural displays the flag raising ceremony is to remind us of the importance of BYUH’s mission revealed by his vision a hundred years ago. The flag circle in front of it symbolizes the diversity and the unity of the school.”

Akiyama said, as a new graduate, he is excited to work in Japan and serve his people with the knowledge and wisdom he gained at BYUH. “We always need to remember President McKay’s vision and blessings so we won’t forget why we are here and what we are supposed to do after our graduation.”

Lopis shared, “We always should commemorate the many great events and sacrifices that have been made by people in the past to prepare this land for this purpose. We also should remember how God prepares us to sustain our personal lives, families and homeland by being educated in His way so we can strengthen His Kingdom in our countries in the future.”

Bataa stressed, “I can testify that the hands of God are always on this school campus. I am so grateful to be here with my small family and be part of his magnificent vision.”

In an article by Deseret News about the mosaic, it says, “The grand mosaic depiction of President David O. McKay at the flag-raising ceremony … resonates in the hearts of all who understand the prophetic mission of the University.”

BYUH Archives records show that the mosaic mural was built in Italy and sent to Laie in crates and put together by community members.

Left: BYUH students stand in unity, each holding the flag of their home country.

Photo by Mark Tabbilos.

F E B RUA RY 2021 13

Goo’s Old Plantation Store

Family of the late Charles K.C. Goo recall memories of their Old Plantation Store and their father’s charitable work

BY XYRON LEVI CORPUZ

14 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

C

hildren of the late Charles K.C. Goo, owner of the original Old Plantation Store, said it was the Lord who led their family to Laie when their father was called upon to open a store for the students of the Church College of Hawaii. K.C. Goo owned and operated the Old Plantation Store for 31 years.

K.C. Goo, alongside his wife Mildred York Kwai Chun, also served missions in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Australia. Throughout his life his children said he faithfully served the Lord and the Laie community, and they shared fond memories and lessons learned while working in their father’s store.

The Old Plantation Store Charles Wai Hing Goo, son of the late Charles Kan Chiu Goo, said, “When the [Church College of Hawaii] first started, President David O. McKay was wanting to start school or classes right away while the college was being built. In 1955, they broke ground for the college to be built.

1955 From left to right: The Old Plantation Store, the Sugar Plantation store (1955), Charles K.C. Goo second from the right at BYU–Hawaii and W.H. Goo (Son of the late Charles K.C. Goo). Photos provided by BYUH Archives.

“In the meantime, to start the school, they had some old army barracks that they purchased. … These barracks were converted into classrooms, dormitories, a cafeteria [and] different buildings. They [also] wanted to have a snack bar and a general merchandise store for the students.”

W.H. Goo said the Church invited his father to move from Honolulu to the town of Laie to open up a store for the students.

Gerry Goo Nihipali, daughter of K.C. Goo, shared, “Our family moved [to Laie] in August 1955, and I was 11 years old. The store was already there because it was the plantation store for the sugar plantation where they had goods and everything for the people who worked for the plantation.

“Dad was called by President Edward L. Clissold, who was the stake president, and he asked my dad to come down and open up a store and a fountain to serve food like hamburgers, hotdogs, drinks, soda [and] saimin,

1990 because the temporary college, [at the time], wasn’t going to have a cafeteria.”

W.H. Goo said, “He had a snack bar [on] one side for the students and a general merchandise store [on the other side].” He said his father not only had groceries, but he also had hardware items and candy.

W.H. Goo said his father would open the store at 7 in the morning to accommodate the high school students, and then the store would close at 9 in the evening. After school, W.H. Goo said he and his siblings would work in the afternoon for two hour shifts at the store. These shifts, he said, were organized for him and his siblings by their mother.

W.H. Goo added that when they got a little older, they were able to work as the

cashier and check people going in and out of the store.

Nihipali recalled, “We had to learn how to use the cash register. We had to manually stamp the price of the product with a stamper onto the cans. We had to bag rice [and] flour. My dad had a big silver scooper, and we would scoop it into bags and bag it.” She also recalled cleaning the store’s refrigerator and the bags of onions and potatoes.

Another daughter of K.C. Goo, Eloise Goo Tyau, shared her memories working at the Old Plantation Store. She said by the time she was born, her family had already moved to their home in Laie. At the age of 12, Tyau said she began working at her father’s store.

F E B RUA RY 2021 15

2005 Looking back, Tyau said working at the store taught her the importance of being responsible and dependable. She said she would take the dinner shift, working form 4:30-6:30 p.m. on school days so her father could go home, have dinner and take a break.

Tyau added, “I think that’s also where I’ve learned to be clean and organized, because we all had to sweep up [the floor] and organized the shelves.” She said the chore they hated doing at the shop was doing inventory.

Helen Goo, the wife of W.H. Goo, recounted her memories of the store. She said, “[K.C. Goo’s] store was not very big, but he had almost everything you needed, and if he didn’t have it, he was very happy to go to town to get it for you.” Every Wednesday, she said, they would go on town runs to pick up whatever supplies and items they needed.

Helen Goo recalled a time when someone came to the store and said, “Oh, Brother Goo, I need a lawn mower and I don’t have the chance to go to town.” She said her father-in-law wrote down the information and the next time he went to town, he picked up a lawn mower and 16 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

Charles K.C. Goo at the dedication of the landmark of the Old Plantation Store on Oct. 20, 2005.

Photo provided by the Goo family.

brought it back to them. “He did a lot of that,” she said.

Sometimes, Helen Goo said students would come to the store and she would watch as her father-in-law would give them a box and say, “Pick up what you want.” He would just give the groceries to them for free, she said.

W.H. Goo said his father owned and operated the Old Plantation Store for 31 years, starting in 1955, until it was demolished in December of 1986.

From 1986 to 1989, W.H. Goo said he and his wife served as mission president and companion in Hong Kong. After returning from their mission, three years after the demolition of the store, he said they built a house in the original location of his father’s plantation store.

Helen Goo commented, “I miss having the store, but when we went on a mission, our grandpa knocked down the store and saved the land for us to come and build this house, and we are grateful for that.”

Remembering the late Charles K.C. Goo Tyau said of her father, “He may seem gruff on the outside, but he was very generous.”

“My father-in-law does things like that often when he feels the promptings of the Spirit.”

- Helen Goo Helen Goo echoed Tyau and commented, “If you do not know [K.C. Goo], he seems really mean. It’s just his character. He seems very stern, but he is very kind hearted. He did a lot of charitable work by giving groceries and giving things away, and he doesn’t talk about it.”

Tyau said their store was closed every Sunday but said sometimes people would come and ask for items they really need. “He would go and open the store and get it for them and he called himself the one-man relief society because he would help people when they needed it.”

W.H. Goo said, “My father was very generous and helpful.” He said his father allowed people to buy their groceries on credit at his the store since many of them

Left to right: Charles Wai Hing Goo (son of the late Charles K.C. Goo), Helen Goo (spouse of Charles W.H. Goo), Gerry Goo Nihipali and Eloise Goo Tyau (daughters of the late Charles K.C. Goo). Photo by Mark Tabbilos.

didn’t receive their paychecks until the end of the month.

Helen Goo said sometimes her father-inlaw didn’t get paid when people promised to pay him at the end of the month. Still, she said he would say, “I’m very blessed, so it’s okay.”

Helen Goo shared, “I remember one [time] I was teaching part-time at the Laie Elementary School and I had a Samoan lady who worked with me … say, ‘Sister Goo, I want to tell you something about your father-in-law,’ and I thought, ‘Oh no, maybe my father-in-law scolded somebody.’”

She continued, “[The Samoan lady] said, ‘Christmas time we were feeling very sad because we didn’t have money to buy our grandchildren toys and gifts for Christmas.’

She said somebody knocked on their door. She opened the door and there was my father-inlaw. He held up an envelope and he said, ‘I don’t know why I am here, but I have a feeling that I need to come and give you this.’”

K.C. Goo had given the family $500, she explained. With tears in her eyes, she said her co-worker expressed gratitude for what he had done for them that Christmas. “My father-in-

law does things like that often when he feels the promptings of the Spirit.”

When young married students would come to the store, Hellen Goo said K.C. Goo would say, “Today, you don’t buy tomatoes. It's very expensive. Cucumbers are on sale.You buy cucumbers today.” She said her father-in-law was very concerned about how the students spent their money.

Led to Laie Nihipali said she and her siblings were young when the family moved to Laie, so it was more of an adventure for them. It was not until later, she said, she realized how blessed they were to live in the Laie community. She said they were fortunate to live close to the temple where they performed baptisms and later served as guides at the temple’s visitors’ center.

Tyau said she found out in her dad’s autobiography the main reason he moved to Laie was to be closer to the temple.

She commented, “The [store] gave him the opportunity to do that, to be able to come and live close to the temple.”

2021 W.H. Goo echoed his sister, “My father felt such a great peaceful feeling in the temple. He wanted to live closer to the temple.”

In 1950, W.H. Goo said the family was sealed in the Laie Hawaii Temple. “By living closer to the temple, my father was able to be an ordinances worker and sealer. At the age of 80, he and my mother went on a temple mission to Hong Kong. Prior to that, they were on another temple mission in Taiwan in 1984, and they also served a mission in Australia.”

Nihipali said she did not know if their family would have remained active in the Church if they had not moved to Laie. “It was a blessing that my dad accepted that calling to move here to Laie.”

W.H Goo said it was the Lord’s hands which brought them to Laie to serve the people there and also to help their family grow closer to the Lord. •

F E B RUA RY 2021 17

The historic Lanihuli Home stood as an important landmark in the Laie community from 1893 to 1959.

Photo provided by BYU–Hawaii Archives.

18 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

The historic Lanihuli Home The Lanihuli Home was a place of gathering and refuge to visitors and residents of Laie

BY LISI TIAFAU

T

he two-story, Victorian-styled Lanihuli Home was an iconic structure of old Laie, local residents expressed. In its 60 years of existence, the home served as mission headquarters, a place for prophets and temple guests to visit, a medical unit for the Army during WWII and lastly, a female dormitory.

Mike Foley, a BYUH alumnus who worked for BYUH and the Polynesian Cultural Center, said, “The Lanihuli house was, perhaps, the first important historical landmark in modern Laie. For over 50 years, it represented not only the headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Hawaii, but it also served as a residence and office for a succession of missionaries, mission presidents, a future president of the Church, Laie Hawaii Temple patrons and early students of the Church College of Hawaii.”

According to a local historian, retired BYUH senior librarian and geography professor, Riley Moffat, the Lanihuli Home was built in 1893 by Mission President Mathew Noall. Moffat stated the original building was one story, but a few years after it was built, a second story was added making it a sixbedroom home.

He said, “The mission home was used quite extensively. When President Joseph [F.] Smith would come to visit, everybody would come out here and stay.”

Moffat stated there was a special room in the Lanihuli Home, called the prayer room.

“Everybody would come together and sit around and share testimonies and pray together, like a big family prayer every night.”

Semi-annual mission conferences were also held at the Lanihuli Home, Moffat explained, and about 5001,000 people would stay for three days of meetings.

During WWII, Moffat said the home served as “kind of an officer’s R&R center, which some local families warned their daughters to stay away from.”

Moffat added when the mission headquarters were moved to Honolulu in 1921, members from the outer islands, and those not wanting to drive back to Honolulu after an evening session at the temple, could stay there. A row of wooden apartments was eventually built alongside the home for additional housing, he explained.

Moffat said, “The Lanihuli was the main residence for the young ladies attending the Church College of Hawaii from 1955-1959, who were probably living away from home for the first time in this classy, iconic 60-year-old mansion. It represented the kind of comfortable home away from home they needed as they helped inaugurate what has become a great University amidst a hastily thrown together temporary campus. “[Lanihuli] carried that aura of sanctuary for the young ladies who were participating in this F E B RUA RY 2021 19

Photo illustration by Katie Mower.

Photo provided by the BYU–Hawaii Archives.

great new adventure. It was their ‘little city of refuge.’”

Foley, a long-time writer and photographer, wrote on the Lanihuli Home in the BYUH special issue magazine, celebrating 50 years of the school. He said, “I’ve been doing this for about 50 years, so many of the earlier stories, interviews and pictures I captured have become historical over time.”

He also oversaw content on the Laie Hawaii Temple centennial website and began working on a PCC historical website before the COVID-19 pandemic closed it down. He expressed throughout his years, “I’ve sometimes thought our special community could be further blessed with a historical center architecturally patterned after Lanihuli house.”

“[Lanihuli] carried that aura of sanctuary for the young ladies who were participating in this great new adventure. It was their ‘little city of refuge’.” -Riley Moffat Moffat said, “[Lanihuli] was Victorian style with a plantation flip flare and it had this turret, like an octagon turret.

It had many bedrooms and kitchens and so missionaries that were assigned to the plantation lived there.”

He further explained, “The Lanihuli Home is one of the iconic structures of old Laie that represents the commitment the Church has made here over the past 155 years.”

The Lanihuli Home was demolished in 1959 due to termite damage, Moffat explained. “The termites destroyed it, and it was just too much to try to maintain. So, they tore it down and built faculty housing there and for the mission president.”

Emily and Stuart Wolthuis are Laie residents who currently live on the land where the Lanihuli Home once was. Emily 20 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

Wothuis said, “We came here in 2008, and I am incredibly humbled to be able to live here on this land with its history and the people that have lived and prospered in this community. They are sacred. They have followed the prophet’s counsel and have labored in this community to make it what it is today.”

She continued, “When they gave us this house and we saw the monument right here, we read up a lot on it and learned of its history. … It is a great honor and a pleasure to be part of this community, and we feel it.

“We have an open-door policy. Anyone can come and come in and visit. ... We had a lot of gatherings here before COVID, and we just feel like we have to do the same thing that took place almost 100 years ago.”

To read Foley’s article, see page 27 of the special historical edition of the BYUH magazine:c9d639284907a796186be6aaf8 10/2005springbyuhmag.pdfc9d63928490 7a796186be6aaf810/2005springbyuhmag. pdf.magazinebrightspotcdn.byu.edu/d7/4c/ c9d639284907a796186be6aaf810/2005 •

Retired BYUH libraian and local historian Riley Moffat visits the Lanihuli Home historical site. Photo by Mark Tabbilos.

F E B RUA RY 2021 21

Sisters Spreading BYUH alumnae, retirees share how they have seen McKay’s prophecy fulfilled

BY XYRON LEVI CORPUZ

I

n 1992, native Hawaiian sisters Napua Kalama Baker and Theresa Meyers Ducret both held important positions at BYU-Hawaii and within the Laie community. Working together, the two helped build strong, lasting relations between the University and its surrounding community. Recruiting students internationally, being a voice for the Laie community and becoming the very first female vice president of any Church Educational System school are just a few of the accomplishments these sisters have achieved.

Something special about Laie Baker said she was raised in both Laie and on the island of Molokai. Recounting her childhood, she said her family would travel from Molokai to Laie every year to visit the temple. Baker said the Laie community was very important to her family because of the temple and their family roots which originated in Laie.

Baker’s older sister and former president of the Laie Community Association, Theresa Meyers Ducret, said, “There was something special about Laie. This was the place that we came primarily for the temple.”

22 KE A L AK A‘I 2021

Ducret said although their father was not an educated man, he encouraged her and her sister to go to school. She said they were brought up knowing the opportunities that could come from an education at the Church College of Hawaii, now known as BYU–Hawaii.

She continued, “I came [to BYUH] in 1956 and left in 1958.

Napua came in 1959 and left two years after. We both finished school with our husbands.” After two years at BYUH, Ducret said they finished out their schooling at BYU in Provo because, at the time, the Church College of Hawaii only offered two years of schooling.

First CES woman vice president After finishing her master’s degree in Provo, Baker returned to BYUH where she was hired at Continuing Education, currently known as Educational Outreach. In 1992, she was promoted to vice president of University Relations at BYUH. As the first women on BYUH’s President’s Council, Baker said she loved serving with her fellow council members who she described as “men of God.” She said, “It was a privilege to serve

Laie sisters, left to right, Theresa Meyers Ducret and Napua Baker, worked together at BYU–Hawaii. Photo by Mark Tabbilos.

with them and to learn from those who had experience.”

Eric B. Shumway, former President of BYUH from 1994 to 2007, served with Baker throughout his entire presidency. He said, “Napua is a first-class human being, full of love and aloha.” Her smiles, intelligence and enthusiasm were a great benefit to the University, he added.

Although often referred to as the first woman vice president at BYUH, Shumway said people must not get the idea Baker was called to be vice president because she was a woman. “She was thoroughly prepared for the job and she brought to the administration not just a loving support of what was going on campus, but she connected the University so well to the community, especially the Hawaiian community.”

Shumway said Baker came up with wonderful ideas to connect the University and those living near it. The goal, he said, was for the communities all along the North Shore to see BYUH as their university. Even if they were not part of the Church or didn’t send their kids to the school, Shumway said the goal was for the University to be important to the locals and state.

Before becoming a vice president, Baker said female students did not have a woman in school leadership to relate to. Baker said she learned from the men she served with and reached out to include women, both locally and internationally, as she traveled to

different countries to meet with young women.

She said, “It was important to reach out to women, to help them to know this is a school for both men and women. Even in the Church, in the Lord’s kingdom, we need women to become leaders. We need it. It wasn’t just men. Men are important, but we needed women.”

Following Baker’s promotion to one of the vice presidents, Ducret took over her sister’s position at Continuing Education. Together, the two sisters visited different countries in Asia and the Pacific to bring international students to BYUH. Ducret said Baker traveled to Asia while her assignment was to visit the Polynesian Islands.

The international students who came to the BYUH campus were a blessing, Baker said. International students coming to the small town of Laie from countries like Mongolia, Korea and Japan to study was not common at the time, she explained.

“You look at them coming in to prepare to be leaders, to build the kingdom throughout the world by bringing people together from all different countries, especially different ethnicities. And yet, we come together in love. …We become one, thanks to the gospel of Jesus Christ.”

President of the Laie Community Association In 1989, Ducret became the president of the Laie Community Association where she served for 10 years. Recalling her experience as president, she said, “It was a time when Laie was going through a F E B R UA RY 2021 23

Theresa Meyers Ducret and Napua Baker. Photo by Monique Saenz.

Theresa Ducret (left) and Napua Baker (right) worked at BYUH together and spent time recruiting students from Asia and the Pacific.

Photos by Mark Tabbilos. Graphics by Karren Chang.

“Napua is a first-class human being, full of love and aloha. ... Her smiles, intelligence and enthusiasm were a great benefit to the University.”

- Eric B. Shumway

24 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

lot of opposition.” She explained there were people in the community unhappy with the Church. It was a time of chaos due to sewage treatment, roads and other problems, she said.

“It was important to have the voice of the community to express to the leaders of the Church their concerns. My role was to gather people here and be a voice to represent them and their concerns to the University and to the brethren.”

It was President Shumway, she said, who asked her to take responsibility of becoming the president of the Laie Community Association.

Shumway said, “During the time she was the president of the Laie Community Association, Theresa encountered a lot of hostility, but she always responded with intelligence and the aloha spirit.

“In other words,” he continued, “she never reduced to namecalling or threats or anything like that. I think Theresa was one of the big reasons we were able to solve many of the problems in the community.” She became someone the entire community could respect, he added.

Through their efforts and working with others, Baker and Ducret

“During the time she was the president of the Laie Community Association, Theresa encountered a lot of hostility, but she always responded with intelligence and the aloha spirit.”

- Eric B. Shumway

were able to build a good relationship again with the community, Shumway said. “It was a wonderful thing to see Theresa and Napua working together.”

Ducret added her role meant she watched over the community and made the town what President David O. McKay wanted it to be.

She said she worked to help make the community clean physically, spiritually and politically.

Relying upon revelations Ducret said, “David O. McKay’s vision for this place is no question prophetic.” In 1957, her second year as a student at the Church College of Hawaii, Ducret said she was able to meet President McKay in person during his visit to the University. As an officer in the school’s student body, Ducret said she was privileged to mingle with him.

Of McKay’s vision for the University, Ducret said, “It has given me the skills and the ability to see the hand of the Lord in this community and know that we are led by prophets. We can rely upon the revelations that come from them for every part of our lives. It has affected my personal life because I’ve seen how it works here.”

Ducret testified, “I have seen prophecy come true… as I’ve seen how the gospel has developed in this community and in the Church entities here in Laie. It was prophetic and to see what [David O. McKay] said years and years ago. … That’s a testimony that it works, that miracles had taken place and continue to take place today.” •

F E B RUA RY 2021 25

20 F un Fa c t s a bou t BYUH

BY XYRON LEVI CORPUZ

1

Six thousand acres of land in Laie was acquired by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for $14,000 in 1865. A part of that land became the Church College of Hawaii, presently known as Brigham Young University– Hawaii.

2

The BYUH lot used to be a plantation.

3

Since its start, BYUH students have represented over 100 different countries.

4

Many people desired for the school to be built in the town of Kaneohe because its proximity to Honolulu made it more accessible. However, President McKay declared it was not the place he had seen in his vision. In the vision, the school was alongside the temple located in Laie.

5

Labor missionaries from the mainland United States and the Pacific Islands assisted with the construction of the Church College of Hawaii. The missionaries worked almost 280,000 man-hours without pay and it was estimated they saved the Church $1,300,000.

6 7

Historic Laie before the school was built.

Classes were held in World War II Army barracks while the college was being built. These temporary buildings were remolded and refurbished to serve as classrooms, office spaces, dorms, a cafeteria and a library.

President David O. McKay dedicated the Church College of Hawaii on Dec. 17, 1958.

Dedication of Church College of Hawaii, 1958.

8

The Church College of Hawaii started with only 153 students and 20 faculty and staff members.

9

The Hawaiian Islands were still considered a territory of the United States when the college was constructed. In 1959, one year after the school’s completion, Hawaii was declared the 50th state of the U.S.

10

The Church College of Hawaii began as a two-year school and was accredited as a four-year college in 1961.

26 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

First student body of CCH.

11

President McKay wept upon first seeing the mosaic depicting the flag-raising ceremony in 1921. This mosaic is placed on the front the McKay building

12

In 1993, King Taufa‘ahau Tupou IV of Tonga, bestowed a high chiefly title, Mafi Fakapotu (powerful one in the distant place), on the Polynesian Cultural Center’s President Lester Moore.

13

The Church College of Hawaii became Brigham Young University–Hawaii Campus in 1974. In 2003, the University removed the word ‘campus.’ Today, in the McKay foyer, you can still see where it is written as ‘Brigham Young University – Hawaii Campus.’

14

In 1967, the Church College of Hawaii’s rugby team was declared national champions. Identifying them as the No. 1 team in the nation, Sports Illustrated referred to them as the “ferocious Mormons.”

15

In 1981, the first Chinese students from the People’s Republic of China arrived in Hawaii to attend BYUH. Among this group of students was Wang Yannan, the daughter of Premier Zhao Ziyang of China.

16

In 1984, China’s premier Zhao Ziyang made a historic visit to the United States, stopping at BYUH and the PCC.

17

In 1992, President Alton Wade appointed local Hawaiian, Napua Baker, as the first female and first known Hawaiian or Polynesian vice president in the Church Educational System.

18

In 1983 and 1992, the Cannon Activities Center served as a place of refuge for North Shore residents fleeing from floods and hurricanes.

19

In 1994, in a meeting above the temple, President Howard W. Hunter blessed the people of Laie and rededicated the land.

20

In May 2004, the BYUH choir performed in Tokyo, Japan at Meiji Jingu, a revered Shinto shrine, making them the first Christian singing group to perform there. The event attracted national media attention.

CCH Rugby team, 1967.

China’s premier Zhau Ziyang visits Hawaii stoppng at BYUH and the PCC, 1984.

BYUH Choir tours Japan, 2004.

Sources: Xyron Levi Corpuz interview with Brooks Haderlie, university archivist, Joseph F. Smith Library on Jan. 12, 2020 Books: Alf Pratte and Eric B. Shumway, BYU–Hawaii Prophetic Destiny: The First 60 Years, page XVII Laura F. Willes, Miracle in the Pacific Website: news.byuh.edu w All photos provided by BYUH Archives.

F E B RUA RY 2021 27

Courtside Memories

Three members of the BYU–Hawaii men’s basketball program share memories and experiences from the golden days

28 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

BY ALEXANDER TUMALIP

A

s BYU–Hawaii celebrates a centennial since the flag-raising ceremony with President David O. McKay, former players and coaches of the BYUH men’s basketball team said the program helped to unite the community and fulfill President McKay’s vision to produce students who were genuine gold. They explained how the legacy of the program continues on in those who were a part of it.

The equivalent of peanut butter and jelly Anthony Pickard, director of Campus Safety & Security, played on the school’s first men’s basketball team and explained, “People had an opportunity to receive an education and be enlightened by each other.” He said he was given the chance by the athletics director, Norman Kaluhiokalani, who offered Pickard a scholarship.

“I really did not know about the athletics program, but I remember visiting campus and thinking I could come to BYU–Hawaii, play basketball and end up transferring,” he recalled. Pickard added he originally wanted to play football at a small college in Oregon, but basketball was his passion.

Hiram Akina, the current head coach at Provo High School, also received a scholarship to join the first BYUH basketball team, despite not having been in high school for nine years. “I remember I first talked about going to BYUH in 1976 with the coach for the Navy team in my competitive league,” Akina recalled. “It was my dream to go to BYUH and get a degree because I wanted to become a coach.”

Akina said when he and Pickard joined the team, they immediately clicked. “He was the total teammate. We knew each other’s actions, strengths and weaknesses, all because of our chemistry.” Akina said he wished players would model the kind of chemistry they had.

Pickard said their chemistry helped because their team was mostly composed of walk-ins and players from different sports. “We didn’t really have a lot of talent, so I scored a

lot,” he recalled. An article from the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, formerly the Honolulu Advertiser, said Pickard was the top scorer in the Oahu Basketball Conference as a freshman, which included a game-high of 65 points.

Akina explained how Pickard was a student of the game, and said he always knew where to be. “If I stole the ball and went on a fast break, he would always be trailing behind me for a drop pass.” He added after games, Pickard’s parents would invite Akina to eat with them, counseling him to save his money for more important things. “That’s what kind of teammate he was, and I still consider him a dear friend.”

“Playing here has made me what I am” Brandyn Akana, athletics director and current head coach of the Kahuku High School boys’ basketball team, was involved in the BYUH men’s basketball program for 10 years before working at the University of Hawaii and then Kahuku High School. “For me, playing [at BYUH] has made me what I am,” Akana said.

Akana explained he was recruited from Molokai High School by former BYUH men’s basketball coach, Ken Wagner. “I did not have the greatest grades in high school, and no one really noticed players from Molokai,” he recalled. “But Coach Wagner gave me a chance to prove myself.”

Akana said he credits Wagner’s staff for encouraging him to improve both academically and physically. “The year before [I was there], the team had made it to the NAIA final four, so they were a big program,” he recalled. Akana added he played many minutes as a freshman, like Pickard and Akina, where “most never get an opportunity.” He also said the encouragement from his teammates and coaches earned him NAIA all-American honors as a senior.

Akana said he never forgot the support he had from fellow students and teachers. “BYU– Hawaii gave me an opportunity to connect with people from around the world which allowed me to flourish both physically and academically,” he said. Akana noted that being a player, and later a coach, gave him a more complete experience. “I not only was a studentathlete, but I was also able to recruit students that were a great fit for the University from all over the world,” he said.

Akana shared about the opportunity he had to have basketball camps abroad, with several stops in the South Pacific and Asia, including China for an exhibition tour, with BYUH and later for the University of Hawaii.

For Akana, he said the most notable stop was in Israel. He recalled, while doing basketball camps there, he got to visit Gethsemane and some of the sites Church members often discuss. “That all came because of my experience playing and coaching [at BYUH].”

When the athletics program ended in 2017, Akana said a piece of his heart went away, but he knew it was for the better. “We had to trust it was Heavenly Father’s plan for us, so we started the intramural program to restore identity to the University.” Since then, he said the intramural program has grown tremendously, calling it an integral part of the experience at BYUH. He said the department, called Seasider Sports and Activities, which he manages, added symbols of that growth that include the new fitness studio and turf field set to open in the first quarter of 2021, according to BYUH’s Orange Cone webpage.

Just as Akana trusted the end of intercollegiate athletics at BYUH was Heavenly Father’s plan, Akina said he trusted basketball

Left: Pickard and Akina said they played Ralph Sampson during their time with the BYUH's basketball team. Photo provided by BYUH Archives.

Right: Pickard said he scored a lot. Photo provided by Anthony Pickard.

F E B RUA RY 2021 29

Left: Pickard said the Cannon Activities Center was a sign of progress for the BYUH sports program. Pictured sitting on the sidelines are Coach Ken Wagner and Akana. Photo provided by the Akana family.

Below: Akana said he can feel the school spirit in the former BYUH players. Photo provided by the BYUH Archives.

would give him a way to change his life. “I was not really into academics, but I knew I had to get straightened out. I always knew I would get my degree. That would be the end result, but I would not have come here without basketball.”

Akina said basketball was the main reason Heavenly Father brought him to BYUH. “I had to go through this path,” he said. “It was written up for me, and I don’t know where I would be without it.”

The legacy continues Pickard and Akina both said their careers gave them great memories. They recalled when the University of Virginia, one of the best teams in college basketball, came to play the young program in 1979. Akina recalled players seeking autographs before the game from Ralph Sampson, who was the best player in college basketball at the time.

“The atmosphere was like a carnival.

Playing against Ralph Sampson today is like getting ready to play against LeBron James. I had to get players back into the locker room to get them focused on the game.” However, once the game started, Akina said the energy was evident. “Obviously, the focus was on Ralph Sampson, but we weren’t going down without a fight. It was a battle.”

Then in 1980, Akina and Pickard recalled practicing against legendary head coach Bob Knight and Indiana in preparation for their appearance in the Kraft Rainbow Classic, hosted by the University of Hawaii. “I remember watching how efficient and smooth their offense worked,” Pickard said.

Akina recalled one particular instance when practice was intense. “We did not want to back down, and it made us more competitive,” he said. He added the practice got to the point where players had to be separated and Indiana 30 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

coach, Bob Knight, responded accordingly, in his own way. “He was swearing so much at his players that his assistants had to remind him where he was,” Akina said. “But all he responded with was, ‘I don’t care where I am!’”

Pickard, however, said the impact of the program was much larger than just those memories. “It brought the community together in support of the program.” He added the community united behind the program and encouraged camaraderie, and soon, no one could fit into the McKay Gym. Thus, he said, the Cannon Activities Center was born.

“Everyone had a hand in our history.

We felt we were truly fulfilling prophecy,” Pickard said. “The Cannon Center was a sign of progress for the program.” He recalled after the center was dedicated by President Spencer W. Kimball, Kimball came to a game, and visited with the team prior to the game.

Akina recalled a time when President Kimball visited campus, which for him was personal. “I remember President Kimball gave me a hug and then he told me, ‘Go for your dreams.’ I couldn’t help but get emotional,” he said. “When he left, two players that I recruited who were not members said they felt something they never did before.”

Akina wondered what could have been if athletics weren’t at BYUH. “Just knowing the vision of the school for every individual that came to the program and was able to accomplish great things is amazing.”

Akana added he saw the BYUH experience touch those he recruited, even those who were not members, before arriving. “To see those who I recruited now as either strong members of the Church or those who understood what it meant to be at BYU–Hawaii, it makes me feel happy for them,” he said. “Keeping in touch with them, you can feel the spirit of this school in them.” •

Laie’s Favorite Pake Cake Recipe

BY S EREN A D UGA R I OA N E

T

he Laie community loves Chinese Tea Cookies, called Pake Cake, explained Nina S. Jones, food editor of the Polynesian Cultural Center’s monthly food blog. “Pake” is the Hawaiian translation of “Chinese” or “China.” Pake Cake is available at Laie’s local Sam’s Store. Local families take Pake Cake to beaches, football games and trips to the mainland for family visits, said Jones.

“The origin of the Chinese Tea Cookie is simple. It became a Polynesian favorite through the many Chinese bakeries across the Hawaiian Islands,” Jones wrote. She advised, “If you like them smaller and crunchier, just use half the dough per cookie and cook with slightly less time.”

Fresh and golden Pake Cake. Photo by Katie Mower.

Pake Cake MAKES 20 COOKIES

• •

• • • • • •

INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

1 cup water 5 slabs (apprx. 13 oz.) wong tong (Chinese brown sugar) * 1-1/2 cups brown sugar may be used in place of wong tong 1/2 cup white sugar 5-1/2 cups flour 2 tablespoons baking powder 1/4 cup honey 1 cup vegetable oil 2 eggs

Bring water to a boil. Break wong tong (or brown sugar) into pieces and add to water, stirring to dissolve. Remove from heat and stir in white sugar until dissolved.

In a bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Separately, combine honey and oil; beat in eggs. Add honey mixture to flour mixture and stir to combine. Add sugar syrup and mix until smooth. Let rest 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cover cookie sheets with baking parchment. Scoop dough onto cookie sheets and press flat (about 1/2 inch thick). Cookies should be 3 inches wide for traditional size, but it’s okay to make them smaller. Bake 12 to 15 minutes. Cool slightly on cookie sheet, then move cookies to a rack. For a twist, sprinkle with powdered sugar.

F E B R UARY 2021 31

Shaka Steel History The Duerdens share how David O. McKay’s prophecy for BYUH students is fulfilled through their band, Shaka Steel

BY XYRON LEVI CORPUZ

D

r. Darren and Jennifer Duerden both say they fell in love with the sound and energetic music of the steel drum. Having been involved with steel drum bands for many years, and even meeting in a steel band, the two co-founded Shaka Steel, BYU–Hawaii’s first steel band and the only functioning steel band in all of Hawaii.

Darren Duerden, the founder of Shaka Steel, said when he first came to BYUH as a faculty member, he discovered the school had never had a percussion instructor. Having been involved with steel bands for many years, so pitched the idea of developing one at the school. Duerden said nobody knew what a steel band was, but in 2001 he and his wife started the university’s first steel drum band.

32 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

Darren Duerden’s wife and co-founder of Shaka Steel, Jennifer Duerden, shared, “Part of the reason we did it [at BYUH] is because we’ve done steel band at BYU in Provo.” She said they had conducted different steel bands in different states, like Florida and Mississippi.

Darren Duerden said, “BYU-Hawaii has the only active steel band in Hawaii.” He explained there are some steel drummers in Waikiki who play on the street, and there are a couple of professionals, but the Shaka Steel band is the only functioning steel band in the state.

Steel drums, he said, are instruments that are not mass-produced. “When you place an order for them, they’re handcrafted, and it takes a while for them to be made.” In

fact, a craftsman from Florida made most of the band’s drums, he explained.

“The steel drum is an instrument that developed in the island country of Trinidad and Tobago,” Darren Duerden explained. He said he fell in love with the steel pan and the culture associated with it back in the 1980s.

Having also met his wife in a steel band, he said they both love the sound and the fun, energetic music associated with it.

“I’ve always found the sound of the steel drum to be very transformative. It always kind of takes me to a different place. … It takes me to a happy place when I hear it.”

Jennifer Duerden said in a steel band there are melody, harmony and bass players.

There are two sets of harmony players, one

The Duerdens with their steel drums. Photos by Mark Tobbilos.

plays the higher notes and the other plays the lower notes, she explained.

“If you compare it to a choir, it’s like the soprano would be the lead part playing the melody and then the altos and tenors would be the harmony parts.

“Everybody in the group gets better with rhythm because it’s a very rhythmic ensemble. …Students come in, they get experience in this group they maybe wouldn’t get in another type of group.”

Darren Duerden described playing in a steel band as “an ensemble for the percussionists.” Instead of just playing in the background, he said the drummers are in the front. “It gives percussionists a chance to read music.” In Trinidad, he said they teach people to play by ear, but in a university setting, it is a chance to strengthen music reading skills.

Jennifer Duerden said Shaka Steel has toured the inter-islands of Hawaii. These tours not only brought the students closer together, she said, but also they also served

as an outreach program as they were able to recruit students to attend BYUH. Darren Duerden shared, “We’ve never been cleared to do an international tour until this last year, and that is why this tour that we have scheduled for the Philippines and Indonesia is huge because I’ve been pushing to try and get an international tour for the steel band for 20 years.”

Kris Krisanalome, a BYUH alumnus and former member of the Shaka Steel band, said he started playing for the steel band in 2016 playing the steel pan, called the ‘double second,’ which consists of two pans.

He shared that, in his first week of school, he walked into Dr. Duerden’s office and told him he wanted to study music but he didn’t know how to read music very well.

Krisanalome said Dr. Duerden suggested he join his class and the band, explaining it would help him learn to read music.

Krisanalome said he struggled reading notes in the beginning, but said Dr. Duerden helped him, and with a lot of

practice he improved. “It’s very exotic and unique to be in this band,” he said.

Spreading peace internationally through music Jennifer Duerden shared how she’s seen David O. McKay’s prophecy, that students of BYUH will be an influence for peace internationally, fulfilled in the band. She said, “These students in our classes are from all different countries and they get to know each other. You know in the world where countries are fighting with each other, we have students from those countries here learning to get along with each other.”

Dr. Duerden said he recently wrote a letter of recommendation for Krisanalome who recently got a job as a drum instructor at a school in Thailand. “He’s now going to take Latin, Caribbean and Hawaiian music to Thailand because that’s what he learned here. If that’s not spreading good, peace [and] cultural understanding internationally, I don’t know what is.” • F E B RUA RY 2021 33

34 KE A L AK A‘I 2021

Barbara Elkington:

A dedicated mother and teacher Children of retired CCH/BYUH professor, who passed away on Dec. 18, 2020, call her faithful, brave, intelligent and kind

BY SERENA DUGAR IOANE

A

t the age of 84, Barbara Elkington, a retired BYU–Hawaii English professor, passed away in her home surrounded by her family. Her children said they have no doubt about the way their mother felt about each of them as she would tell them daily how much she loved them and how proud she was of them.

A Facebook post shared by Elkington’s family, read, “Barbara passed peacefully at home with her family there and her beloved dogs on the bed with her on Dec. 18, 2020. Barbara was a retired English professor and her family is grateful for everyone who loved their mother. Barbara loved living in Hawaii and teaching at BYUH and all the students over the years.”

A Brief biography Elkington was raised by her parents, Jo and Ruth Miller, in Oregon and graduated from Jefferson High in 1954. Elkington attended BYU in Provo and received her bachelor’s degree in English in 1958 and a master’s degree in journalism in 1960.

In 1959, she worked as a reporter and photographer in McMinnville, Ore. In 1963, Elkington was hired to teach English and journalism at the Church College of Hawaii, now BYUH. She continued to teach at BYUH until her retirement in 2001.

She married Wahanui Tupaea Elkington and together they had six children, 14 grandchildren and one great grandchild, according to her daughters.

Elkington’s daughter, Ruthann Wetekia, said her mother was a tall, well-spoken, intelligent and kind person. “She always says ‘Hang in there,’ and ‘I love you.’” Wetekia said she learned from her mother to

stay strong in the faith of Jesus Christ, to work hard and to always be honest.

A life of faithful service While Elkington chose to attend BYU in Provo, for her first three years she was not a member. However, no one knew it, Wetekia shared. “Mom said she probably gave some strange prayers when she was studying there,” Wetakia joked. However, with her brother David’s encouragement, Elkington joined the Church on July 5, 1959.

Wetekia said no matter what happened throughout her mother’s life, her testimony remained strong. “She was a member of the Laie 2nd Ward since about 1964. She gave a lot of service throughout the years.”

She had a posse of friends who help each other, and they were all active and strong members in the Church, Wetekia commented.

Her daughter, Elizabeth Shaw, shared, “She was very strong in her faith. She served in so many positions in the Church. That was something she was known for and something that I always admire about her. She served without the need for recognition or praise. She served because it was the right thing to do.”

Shaw also described her mother as a very kind and loving person.

“When I talked to my friends after she passed, each of them were so grateful to my mom for making them feel loved and valued. Many of them had moved into our house over the years.

“During a time when they were struggling with relationships with parents or boyfriends, my mom made sure they knew that they were loved no matter what. She had meaningful conversations and made a difference in their lives,” Shaw added.

Retired BYUH professor, Barbara Elkington, passed away in her home surrounded by family on Dec. 18, 2020. Photo provided by the Elkington Family.

F E B R UA RY 2021 35

Memories of Mom Wetekia said she has many wonderful memories with her mother.

“She was the fastest typist I’d ever seen. She’d type my school papers on her typewriter, and it was like a cacophony of keystrokes.”

Wetekia shared when she had her senior recital at BYUH in 1989, her mother made the best refreshments in the history of recitals.

“When I’d have nightmares, I’d sleep on the sheepskin on the floor next to her, and she’d hold my hand,” Wetekia recalled.

Another daughter, Maria Zink, said her mother was very brave.

“When I was about 8 years old, we saw a couple arguing and the man struck the woman. Mom went right up to the man and gave him a ‘what for.’ She took the woman’s hand, and we walked away. I was so scared, shocked and surprised, but Mom helped this woman.”

Zink said her mother ended most phone calls by telling her how proud she was of all her children. “She was a very patient person. She rarely lost her patience with a house full of us.”

Shaw shared, “She had a very dry sense of humor. She would often say something and people weren’t sure if she was joking or serious.

That was when it was the funniest, seeing my friends confused and not knowing if they should laugh or apologize for something.”

Shaw said, “I was fortunate enough to be able to have a FaceTime call with her the day she passed. Even with her decline she was able to tell me that she loved me.”

Shaw said there was not a doubt in any of her children about the way their mother felt about each of them. “She often told us that she was proud of us and that she loved us. She was happy that we were good people.”

Funeral plans Wetekia said they were not yet able to have a funeral because of COVID-19. “She wanted to be interred with her parents in Portland, Oregon, so we’d like to take her there when things calm down.”

Wetekia shared, “Her instructions were simple. Cremation and serve ice cream sundaes at the service. We’d like to do that here in Hawaii, when COVID-19 is under better control.” •

Photos from top to bottom: Elkington arriving in Laie to teach at the Church College of Hawaii, Elkington with her family and smiling, at her college graduation, at her retirement and with her grandchildren.

Photos provided by Ruthann Wetekia.

36 KE A L AK A‘I 2021

F E B R UA RY 2021 37

The plantations

on Oahu

BY XYRON LEVI CORPUZ

Retired professor, David Furuto, said it was a sad time in his life when the Kahuku Sugar Plantation ceased operating. Three generations of his family worked there.

R

etired BYU–Hawaii mathematics professor, Dr. David Furuto, said he was a third-generation worker at the Kahuku Sugar Plantation. His grandfather, Shintaro Furuto, who came from Hiroshima, Japan, and his father, Jitsuo Furuto, also worked at the Kahuku Sugar Plantation, he said.

Brooks Haderlie, the BYUH archivist, said the mills in Hawaii were shut down because other countries began to produce sugarcane and pineapple at a lower cost. For David Furuto, he said it was a sad moment when the Kahuku Sugar Plantation was shut down because it was part of his life.

Furuto echoed Haderlie, saying, “As the sugarcane industry struggled to keep up with technology and mechanization in sugarcane mills, the cost to upgrade the equipment and the increasing labor costs caused Hawaii’s sugar mills to shut down. The sugarcane industry had only one last sugar mill on the island of Maui, which finally closed around Christmas of 2016.” Furuto added each plantation ‘died’ one after another.

38 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

Furuto and his wife, Dr. Sharlene Furuto, a retired BYUH social work professor, discussed the history of plantations on Oahu and shared that people came from different countries to seek out their fortunes working in Hawaii’s mills.

“These descendants [came] from China, Japan, the Philippines, Korea, Portugal, Puerto Rico, etc.,” said Sharlene Furuto. “[They were able to] appreciate the blessings of democracy and the availability of good facilities for our health, education, religion, leisure, etc.”

Plantations in Hawaii Sharlene Furuto shared in the 1860s, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints acquired land in the town of Laie as a gathering place for the early Latter-day Saints.

She said, “A sugar mill was built in Laie, and the Saints planted sugarcane on much of the land. Sugarcane production in Hawaii at that time was very lucrative, and there were dozens of mills throughout the Sandwich Islands.”

David Furuto said, “When people on Oahu refer to a sugarcane plantation, they are usually referring to a large building with sugar processing equipment, including a sugar cane crusher, extracting raw juice, steam transformer, an evaporator, vacuum pans, centrifugal equipment, sugar drying machines, surface condensers, etc.”

He said the locations of sugar plantations on the island of Oahu were in Ewa, Aiea, Waialua, Kahuku and other places.

David Furuto said they used the terms Kahuku Sugar Plantation or Kahuku Sugar Mill synonymously. “Kahuku Sugar Plantation encompassed everything such as land, buildings, mill, etc.”

Working at the Plantation David Furuto said his grandfather came to Hawaii, along with his wife, from Japan. He shared his grandfather and his grandfather’s three sons; Sadao, Jitsuo and Tokuo; also worked on the sugar plantation. “My father,

Left: Those who spent their lives working on sugarcane plantations must have felt great loss when they closed, David Furuto said. Photo provided by BYUH Archives.

Above: David Furuto and his family smile for a photo. Photographed by Monique Saenz.

Jitsuo Furuto, worked on the Kahuku Sugar Plantation, and later I worked on the Kahuku Sugar Plantation,” he said.

He recalled his father was a work-a-holic, and he expected his sons to work just as hard as he did. “Before I went to work at the Kahuku Sugar Plantation, I worked on our family farm of about 20 acres, which was considered big by Hawaii's standards.”

The reason his father expected them to work hard was so the Kahuku Sugar Plantation would hire them, he added. David Furuto said when he was old enough, he started working.

“So, when my foreman saw that I was an excellent worker, then my supervisor assigned me to work on the sabidon, [the weed poison] truck, which was a big promotion. Because I was such a hard worker, and a good worker, many other bosses wanted me to work for them. So, I became the highest paid kid at the Kahuku Sugar Plantation.”

He continued, “I became the third generation to work on the sugar plantation for several years.” He said the life lesson he learned

from working at the plantation was, if he is a hard and good worker,then bosses would want to hire him.

Shutting down the plantations Haderlie said, like most things, people in other countries were able to produce sugarcane cheaper and Hawaii stopped producing it.

“It was cheaper to do it in Central America and South America.” Haderlie explained labor in other countries cost less.

Haderlie added the same thing happened with the pineapple industry in Hawaii. He said pineapples were introduced to the islands in the 1800s and they grew well in the tropical climate.

“More pineapple was grown here in Hawaii than anywhere else in the world at that time, but then it got cheaper [in] other places. Now, there is still the Dole Plantation. But really, they only raise pineapple to sell to tourists and to local people. In my understanding, they do not export pineapple to other places anymore, so the economy has changed.”

Haderlie commented in 1971, the sugar mill in Kahuku closed.

David Furuto shared, “Unfortunately, I had relatives who worked at the Waialua Sugarcane Plantation, the Waipahu, the Ewa, the Waianae, etc., which just fell one by one. Hawaii, being part of the U.S.A., just could not compete with other countries, such as the Philippines, Mexico, South America, etc.”

He said the plantation was the primary employment for many local workers. He added it was especially hard on young people who lost their jobs after the plantation closed down. The younger workers moved away for higher paying jobs, he said, rather than collect government aid.

Furuto said he spent less than 10 years working on the plantation, but he is sure those who spent their entire lives working on the sugarcane plantations felt a great loss when they closed. •

F E B RUA RY 2021 39

WITNESSES

of President McKay’s prophecy unfolding Whether a one-day tourist or a lifelong resident, BYUH professor says once you’ve been to Laie, it’s hard to shake its splendor

BY LISI TIAFAU

C

urrent and former staff members at BYU–Hawaii share their thoughts and express appreciation for Laie and its history. Moved by her experience at the Polynesian Cultural Center as a child, Professor Alohalani Housman said she is just a small part of the millions who have come to Laie and had a seed planted in their hearts.

Although a small place, Professor Mason Allred said everywhere you go in Laie “you are stepping on and into layers of inspiration that has been acted on.”

Laie the gathering place Housman, a BYUH alumna and associate professor in the Faculty of Culture, Language & Performing Arts, said BYUH and Laie are both special places for her and her family.

From New Jersey, Housman said she came to BYUH in 1978 and graduated in 1982.

Housman said she was 12 years old when she first visited the PCC with her family. This experience, she said, was life changing. “When we went to the PCC, my twin brother and I were really touched. At age 12, we decided [BYUH] was where we wanted to go to school.”

Although she grew up Methodist, in 1977, Housman said she and her family joined 40 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

the Church, the year before she came to BYUH. Both BYUH and the PCC, she said, played an important role in spreading the gospel to people from all over the world. “I am a product of that. Going to the PCC really opened the doors for me and others to know more about the Church,” Housman said.

“The land in Laie purchased by the Church is an important event. It was a significant piece of the history of Laie back in 1865. There were 10 missionaries in Laie and only five stayed. But out of the five missionaries who stayed, by the time they left, there were close to 4,000 saints who joined the Church. The Church wanted a gathering place due to the large number of saints,” she explained.

Housman said, “Many people have asked why Laie was chosen to be the place to build the school and temple. The answer is that Elder William W. Cluff served as a missionary in Hawaii. In 1865 he had a vision where Brigham Young appeared to him and said Laie was the place to build the temple. “For Laie to be chosen as the place to build the temple, it is really sacred and a special place,” she shared.

Housman said after Laie was purchased by the Church, they started growing sugar cane on its plantations. She added, in the

1800s there was a mission school and the school was built near where the temple president resides today.

“As the school grew, David O. McKay was doing a world tour. Hawaii was his last stop and he went to the mission school to observe elementary children raise the flag.

When he saw the many different nationalities and ethnic groups of the children he was so touched,” Housman said.

She explained David O. McKay was overwhelmed by what he saw because it was the first place he witnessed different people from different countries congregate in one place. “It was really a memorable experience for him. So much so that when he became prophet, he felt the school should be built.

In 1955, the Church College of Hawaii was established.”

A place of dreams, visions and prophecies Mason Kamana Allred, a BYUH alumnus and assistant professor in the Faculty of Arts & Letters, said, “I am amazed at how much the memory of Laie and the stories we tell ourselves about Laie today are rooted in dreams, visions and prophecies.

“This makes each little swerve in the story feel directed and inspired. It means Francis Hammond was inspired to push for the acquisition. President Smith was inspired to get a temple built here,” he shared.

“This place is an amalgamation of prophecies and revelations, one after one and on top of another. It’s a small place, but everywhere you go you are stepping on and into layers of inspiration that has been acted on.”

Housman said she felt as though she was a part of David O. McKay’s prophecy of missionary work in Laie. She said, “I am just a small part of millions of people who have come here and have felt the same feeling.

Seeds were planted into our hearts after coming to Laie.

“The feeling of aloha and peace is what the campus of BYUH and Laie are all about.

Students not only learn and go forth to serve but also have wonderful experiences here,” Housman said.

Of McKay’s prophecy, Housman said, “It has affected us as faculty and staff of BYUH because there is a defined mission and defined

purpose here. … It is part of BYUH’s mission to help students to understand what their mission is in life and how they can serve our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.”

Whether a one-day tourist or a lifelong resident, Allred said so many individuals have been touched by their time here. He said when people leave Laie, the peace, unity and aloha accompany them wherever they go.

“Once you’ve been here, it’s hard to shake its splendor.”

Housman’s advice to all who come and live in Laie is to listen to the little whisperings of the Spirit. She said the Lord will let you know what you need to do.

“My constant prayer to Heavenly Father is to help me know how to do my work and to know His will,” she said. “If each one of us can do that, then we will be doing our Heavenly Father’s work.”

Jay Akoi, a former BYUH women’s volleyball coach and alumnus from the Big Island, said sports are also an important part of the history of Laie and BYUH. He said, “Sports at the Church College of Hawaii

provided athletes the opportunity to share their skills and talents with one another.”

Akoi said there were non-members on his teams who obtained testimonies and joined the Church. “To see many of our athletes become mothers and raise a righteous generation is priceless and beyond measure.

The history of Laie must be remembered so the legacy of sports can continue to live on.”

His hope, Allred said, is for students to realize and take advantage of the unique history that has “made for an abundant present with all kinds of potential.”

He continued, “I only hear of men having dreams, visions, and prophecies. I am afraid we don’t hear enough about the women who made this place what it is. The fact this place has the PCC, temple and the University on the shores of Oahu makes this one of the most amazing places to be.” •

Left: Mason Allred said Laie is an amalgamation of prophecies and revelations.

Right: Alohalani Housman said she feels she is a part of Mckay’s vision of missionary work. Photos by Mark Tabbilos.

F E B RUA RY 2021 41

“Sports are an important part of the history of BYUH because they were one of the few things that helped unite the school and community.” -KeAnuenue Nikora Becky Laubach Brown aims for a spike.

Photo provided by Becky Laubach Brown.

42 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

Success, spirituality & volleyball Former volleyball coach, Wilfred Navalta, says he witnessed nonmember recruits from around the world embrace gospel teachings at BYUH

BY LISI TIAFAU

H

onored as National Coach of the Year in 1996 and 1999, former BYU–Hawaii women’s volleyball coach, Wilfred Navalta, led the team to 10 national titles, four consecutive national championships and helped produce multiple All-American athletes. Describing his years coaching in Laie as a blessing, Navalta said he was able to share the gospel with many throughout his coaching years.

Spreading the gospel through volleyball Navalta, a BYUH alumnus from the Big Island, coached both the men’s and women’s volleyball teams at BYUH from 1983 to 2012. Navalta said he first came to BYUH on a basketball scholarship in 1963 where he played volleyball and basketball for three seasons before transferring to BYU in Provo to finish his undergraduate and master’s degrees.

Navalta said he then taught and coached in Arizona for three years before returning to Provo in 1978 to receive his doctorate. In 1983, Navalta said he returned to BYUH where he taught exercise science and coached the men’s volleyball team from 1983 to 1985 and then the women’s volleyball team from 1985 to 2012.

He explained, “I took over the women’s volleyball team after Jay Akoi. He started a good foundation for the women’s program and we started to be successful.

We were fortunate to win and we won 10 national titles.

“Volleyball left a legacy of positive influence for BYUH, Hawaii and the Church,” Navalta stated. He said BYUH hosted the Chinese Olympic team on campus for the World Cup in 1996. “We took care of them and everything they needed, but the interesting part of it was I

gave the Book of Mormon to the head coach of the Chinese Olympic team,” he said.

Coach Navalta stated he gave away four additional copies of the Book of Mormon the next day to the other coaches. “We developed a good relationship with them, and they invited us to go on a tour of China.

They hosted us and took care of us. It was a beautiful experience,” Navalta shared.

“That’s what volleyball and sports did, we had good relations. We took care of them, and they took care of us when we went to China. … We had some really good, special experiences with the players,” he said.

“One reason why sports were so important [at BYUH] was we started to spread the gospel to so many nonmembers. When I recruited players from all over the world, members and nonmembers came and embraced the gospel teachings,” Navalta stated.

F E B RUA RY 2021 43

Navalta said some of his nonmember players joined the Church and found their eternal companions. “We brought many nonmembers from different parts of the world and when they returned to their own countries, they started to spread the gospel.

Even though not all the players joined the Church, they shared with me how they felt at BYUH and brought a copy of the Book of Mormon with them,” he shared.

“As a coach, I felt very strongly that I should focus on the spiritual aspects of my players. I came up with a statement for myself and for my team and that is: supreme effort in spiritual things influences infinite success,” Navalta said.

As coach, Navalta said he would remind his team to respect and live the honor code, focus on their education and focus on volleyball last. “The three priorities were embroidered on their uniform and whenever they saw them, they were reminded of how they should act as members of the team,” he said.

Navalta stated their motto helped him and his players stay focused on the prophecy David O. Mckay had for the school. “Laie was a place of enlightenment for me. It helped me strengthen my testimony and prepared me to be the best I can. Sports are a way I can help others feel it too.”

Today, Coach Navalta is retired and living with his wife on the Big Island. He said, “It was a blessing to be able to live in Laie with my family and be close to the temple. I was truly blessed to spread the gospel to so many people during my coaching years.”

Uniting local and global communities BYUH alumna, KeAnuenue Nikora, formerly Nue Chang from Laie, played under Coach Navalta for three years, starting in 1994. She said, “At the time, BYUH was an NAIA division school. There were not as many regulations in regards to recruiting and giving scholarships as there were when BYUH transitioned to become an NCAA school.”

If they made the volleyball team, Nikora said, Coach Navalta would make

44 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

sure everyone received a scholarship.

“As a walk-on freshman, I was so very happy to receive some money to help pay for my books and housing. I enjoyed the sport, my coaches and especially my teammates,” said Nikora.

“When I played, we were fortunate to make connections with several international teams. We played against a university from Japan. We also had the honor to have the Brazilian women’s national team on campus and use our facilities as they prepared for a tournament.”

She stated they had the opportunity to host the Chinese women’s national

volleyball team as well. “They stayed on campus in the dorms. We practiced together and had team activities together, including spending a day at PCC. It was a neat bonding experience for both teams.

The Chinese team was impressed by their experience on campus and they extended an invitation for our team to go to China where they hosted us,” Nikora said.

“My teammates came from all over the world. I played with girls from Brazil, Serbia, different parts of the mainland, as well as a handful from Hawaii. Under the direction of Coach Navalta and staff, our Seasider team was able to win four consecutive national championships as well

to every game.

“Volleyball was the best back then. Many students, community and faculty came e to be We had a great support system from the University. It was an unforgettable experienc part of BYU-Hawaii volleyball.” -Becky Laubach Brown Photo provided by Becky Laubach Brown.

as produce many All-American athletes,” Nikora said.“Sports are an important part of the history of BYUH because they were one of the few things that helped unite the school and community,” she said.

During her time as a player, Nikora said Navalta was both her stake president and a NAIA Hall of Fame Inductee in the coach category. His assistants were Jay Akoi and Mike Apo. As a 10-year-old girl, she had wonderful memories of going to the CAC weekly to watch volleyball and basketball games with her friends and family, Nikora shared. “The CAC was always full and the crowd was noisy. Community members and students came together weekly to cheer together for the Seasiders,” she said.

Blessed to be a Seasider Nikora expressed gratitude for the opportunity she had to be a Seasider and a member of the BYUH women’s volleyball team. She said, “I reflect on that time with such love, gratitude and happiness. I am grateful for the influence the gospel had on our team and especially for the righteous priesthood holders who led our team. They instilled the values of obedience, discipline and hard work. Those values are what made us successful on and off the court.”

Becky Laubach Brown, a BYUH alumna from Waianae who also played under Coach Navalta in 1994, said, “Volleyball was the best back then. Many students, community and faculty came to every game.

Becky Laubach Brown and Coach Wilfred Naval ta on her senior night and last game on the BYUH home court.

Photo provided by Becky Laubach Brown.

“I am grateful for the influence the gospel had on our team and especially for the righteous priesthood holders who led our team. They instilled the values of obedience, discipline and hard work. Those values are what made us successful on and off the court.”

-KeAnuenue Nikora

“We had a great support system from the University. It was an unforgettable experience to be a part of BYU–Hawaii volleyball. Coach Wilfred Navalta was a phenomenal coach,” she said.

Brown stated sports helped her learn to work with others who were different from her. “I learned that I was better with my team than by myself. I learned to work hard in class and on the court,” she said.

“Being a part of the BYU–Hawaii volleyball team was a life changing experience for me. It prepared me to become a missionary and gave me experiences I would have not had otherwise. I will always be grateful for the sports programs we had at BYU–Hawaii,” Brown said. • F E B RUA RY 2021 45

Connecting generations Community members share their connections to the historic flag raising ceremony and how its legacy continues

BY ALEXANDER TUMALIP

46 KE ALsays AKwe A‘Ilearn 2021 Bobby Akoi who we are by learning about our ancestors. Photo by Monique Saenz.

A

century ago, President David O. McKay was at a Laie Elementary School's flag raising ceremony where he was inspired by the multicultural student body. One hundred years later, three members of the community connected to that ceremony, said the future depends on how the younger generation remembers that legacy.

President Cy Bridges, second counselor in the Laie Hawaii Temple presidency, said he is connected to the flag ceremony and his roots to the ceremony run deep. Bridges grew up in Hauula.

“Our family was at the ceremony to purchase the land for the gathering of the Saints. We were there long before other pioneers arrived,” he said. “This place was selected long ago. President Gordon B. Hinckley proclaimed there is nothing like this place,” he said.

Bridges said people in Laie would not be here without that history. “Laie was built on love. It was built on faith.”

Kela Miller, a member of the Laie Community Association, said the ceremony is significant to her because her family was also there. “There was a school here for Latter-day Saint children before BYU–Hawaii existed,” she said. “Raising the flag honored our kupuna, or our ancestors, who paved the way for that to happen.”

Bobby Akoi, BYU–Hawaii’s university chaplain, a BYUH alumnus and a retired Polynesian Cultural Center leader, said there is nothing like Laie in the world. He said historically “Laie was a city of refuge, and it still is now.”

Akoi said he learned about Laie at BYUH, and the ancient Hawaiian temple, or heiau, was what made Laie a safe haven. “The temple protected those who were escaping crime, war and turmoil.”

As Laie recognizes the centennial anniversary of the flag raising, Bridges said some people shrug it off, but others, like him, revere the moment. He added the flag raising ceremony commemorated the dedication of the land for the gathering of the Saints.

To Miller, the continuation of Laie will depend on the younger generation. “The biggest commitment is to listen to our kupuna,” she said. Miller said the youth have so many tools to learn about their ancestors, but they don’t know it yet. “Learning won’t come if the youth stay home. They have to get nosey and ask a lot of questions.”

Miller added, “The youth must feel real love from you, and you must show real love to them. They should ask themselves, ‘Are you able to help them?’ or ‘Do you understand your family?’ Perhaps the youth could also start by evaluating how to treat their parents.”

Miller said families must feel they are important and remain open-minded, no matter what family members may believe.

Akoi said the younger generation has barely scratched the surface of fulfilling the prophecies about Laie. “The only way to connect and learn from the past is to learn about your ancestors,” he said. “The youth today have more tools to learn about them and are more spiritual.”

Akoi said he hopes his children can contribute to Laie by furthering their education. “Prophets have counseled members of all ages and genders to get a degree,” he said.

“This generation will be the one to prepare the way for the Second Coming.”

Akoi said Bridges has a memory “like no other” that allows him to remember the teachings of his kupuna. “I’ve never

Laie was built on love and faith, said Hawaiian historian, Cy Bridges. Photo by Mei Mei Yin.

heard anyone chant their genealogy back to Kamehameha,” he said.

Bridges said, “One relative once told me their family history was not important.” Bridges said he replied that family history connects everyone. He added he should be called a Hawaiian culture and history enthusiast, not a researcher. “I just tell people it is a part of my life,” he said.

Bridges added what he shares with others is a fraction of the history he has learned through his constant desire to ask questions.

Bridges noted his enthusiasm for Hawaiian culture drew him to the Merrie Monarch Festival, which he has been involved with for years as both a kumu hula and a judge.

Miller said she knows Bridges from their time working at the PCC in the Hawaiian Village in the 1960s. “It was great working with Cy because we were both learning about the culture,” she said.

Miller recalled Bridges ran a hula halau as the kumu hula, or the teacher. “If you needed to know something about hula, Cy was there,” Miller said. She added his halau was the only one that did men’s and women’s dances together. “He is strict in his own way.

If you’re doing something wrong, he corrects you in an understanding and loving way.” Miller explained she now runs her own halua called Halau Hula ‘O Kekela.

Akoi’s group, called the Singing Bishops, performed the music for Bridges’ halau. He explained Bridges not only taught the hula to his halau, but also taught them the history of the hula. “He helped his students understand the meaning of the movements and words. They were not just dancing to dance,” Akoi said.

Akoi said he feels closest to the Hawaiian culture while singing about it. “You can’t help but feel close to the language and even those F E B RUA RY 2021 47

Our kupuna laid the foundations of Laie, says Kekela Miller. Photo provided by Kekela Miller.

who wrote the music,” Akoi said. He added it is important to learn the language in order to understand the meaning of what is sung.

Miller said Bridges helped her understand certain hula movements while she was practicing. “I needed help from Cy because I kept forgetting a certain move,” she recalled.

“He not only corrected me, but he also suggested something I could improve.” She added asking for help is sometimes forbidden, or kapu, in some halaus, but she said Bridges would help her anyway.

Besides the hula, Bridges said the ultimate connection to the history of Laie comes from family. He remembered driving home from a lecture on family history with his wife. “My wife said to me out of the blue, ‘You’re so lucky.’ I replied, ‘Lucky?’” Bridges continued, “She explained that she only knew one grandmother. I knew all my grandmothers.”

Bridges said he knew his grandmothers well because he asked questions to them about his lineage, did arts and crafts with them and many more activities.

Miller explained because Bridges learned his history from the best—his ancestors—people never refer to him as a researcher. “People who do research and write books on history never had the opportunity to learn one-on-one, like Cy does,” she said. However, she said, Bridges 48 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

does not share his knowledge lightly. “He is very particular, but his aim is always to make you better.”

Even though he seems strict, Miller said people should not be intimidated by his presence, adding Bridges is a fun person to be around.

Miller said she tries to do the same with her family by keeping connections alive. “Our kupuna laid the foundation for Cy and me,” she said. Miller remembered one of her aunts was part of the flag ceremony, and her grandfather remarked Laie would be a place where people can share their talents and get an education.

Miller said Laie was not always peaceful.

“The prophets had to teach the people to cooperate and work together,” she recalled.

“Many Native Hawaiian converts still worshipped multiple gods and did things contrary to the restored gospel. Change was not easy for them.”

Bridges explained sharing scriptures from the Book of Mormon teaches others about the privilege of inheriting the land.

“If you really understand the scriptures, they talk about the land of your inheritance over and over again,” he said. “We all came from the House of Israel. … All these stories are connected. It is part of who we are.”

Akoi said it can be difficult for people to understand the principle of the land of inheritance. “The challenge is to guide people on

the right path, but you must let them find their own answers,” he explained. “Whatever happens, you must respect [their choice]. Cy understands because he was in the exact same position.”

Miller said Bridges is an example of love and faith. She said he has strived to put the Lord first, no matter his calling. “It’s hard for Cy and I to put the Lord first because we don’t want people to think we are different,” she said.

However, Miller said it became second nature after a while since their hula halau does not dance on Sunday.

Bridges added Laie drew many people in, including King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani. “Kalakaua was so concerned about the Hawaiian race dying out, but when he saw all the children playing [in Laie], he was very happy,” he said.

Bridges said the queen tried to create her own Relief Society with the help of his ancestor, but it only lasted two years. “No one could figure out why, but we knew better. It was not connected to the authority of the priesthood,” Cy said. “That’s the reason why the Relief Society has continued to this day [in the Church].•

Avi’i Magele graduated in 2015. Photo provided by Magele.

Fa’afetai, BYU–Hawaii

Three women from Samoa attribute their success to their time at BYUH

BY LISI TIAFAU

A

teacher, a women’s rugby development officer, and a planning and development officer for the Samoa Tourism Authority, all say BYU–Hawaii helped them succeed in their careers. From developing relationships with their professors, to attending club activities, these three women expressed gratitude for the

University and the experiences they had as students that led them to where they are today.

Avi’i Faalupega Magele, an alumna from Samoa who majored in art education, began her studies at BYUH in the summer of 2013 and graduated in November 2015. She said, “I wanted to set an example for my siblings, and my mother was my greatest supporter and encouraged me to apply.”

F E B RUA RY 2021 49

Magele said she first heard about BYUH from her bishop, Aleni Fuatimau, when she was converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “I graduated from the National University of Samoa and then I taught at a high school in Savai’i for five years. At the time, I was also a rugby referee when I met Bishop Fuatimau,” she said.

Magele stated she had never heard of BYUH and did not know what to expect.

“The biggest challenge I faced was deciding to come or not because I had never attended a church school before. I was not strong in the Church, but when I came to BYUH I changed for the better.”

Before she became a member of the Church, Magele said she fell into many temptations and struggled to keep the Word of Wisdom. However, when she decided to come to BYUH, she said she decided to change. “Prayer was my weapon that I carried with me during my time at BYUH and it really helped me. BYUH helped me become independent and helped me develop a strong testimony in the Church.”

Lovine Leauanae graduated in winter 2019.

Photo provided by Leauanae.

50 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

“I want to encourage students to come to BYUH and to make sure you take ownership of your learning.”

-Avi’i Faalupega Magele Magele said she is grateful for the knowledge she gained at BYUH because it has helped her in so many ways. “I am the woman development officer for rugby in Samoa, working under the Samoa Rugby Union. I go out to the communities and teach, inspire, coach, referee rugby” to women.

Faamasani Pao, a BYUH alumna from Samoa who majored in TESOL said, “I had always looked forward to attending BYU– Hawaii because I had heard a lot of good things about the school from my parents and a lot of my relatives who attended BYUH.” Pao said she started at BYUH in 2015 and graduated in 2017.

“I have encountered a lot of challenges academically, mentally and socially in school.” But because of what she learned in religion classes, church, professors, leaders and friends, “I was able to overcome these obstacles and challenges and graduated with a degree,” Pao said.

Currently, Pao teaches at Pesega Middle School in Samoa where each year, she teaches up to 105-110 students, she explained. “I have always wanted to be a teacher. So, when I attended BYUH, I had to make sure that I studied and took the right courses.”

Pao said the TESOL courses were difficult, especially her linguistic classes.

She said, “I studied hard so I could achieve what I had been dreaming of in life, which was to become a teacher.” She shared her favorite place on campus was the

library because she spent most of her time studying there and attending group studies.

Lovine Leauanae, an alumna from Samoa who majored in political science, said she first started her studies at BYUH online.

“After high school, I took online classes for BYUH. At that time, I wasn’t even serious about what I was doing,” she said.

Leauanae said she was motivated to follow her older brother’s footsteps and

attending club activities and going to the beach with friends. “I have missed my friends and people who I’ve met at the University. I miss Laie and the Polynesian Cultural Center where I first got my job while being a student at BYUH.” Magele highlighted the importance of leaning as many skills and gaining as much knowledge as students can while at BYUH. If students do, she said they will be able to work in different fields. “I am grateful for BYUH. I am where I am thanks to the choice I made to come to BYUH,” Magele said. “Thank you BYUH!” Pao said the connections she made with professors at school helped her find a place to do her student internships. “All the things that I have been taught in my

Faamasani Pao and her husband as she graduated in 2017. Photo provided by Pao.

decided to attend BYUH. She starting in Winter 2016 and graduated in Winter 2019. Today, Leauanae explained she works as a planning and development officer for the Samoa Tourism Authority.

“Before I went to BYUH, it was my plan B. My plan A was to look after my grandmother in Australia.”

Leauanae stated she applied to BYUH before heading to her grandmother in Australia. “[My grandmother] passed away the day before I got to Brisbane. So, I guess what my grandma wanted for me was to go to school.”

Magele said even though she did not get the job she wanted with her qualifications from BYUH, she is still able to use her education in another way teaching rugby. “I did my internship for six months at Leififi College. During my internship, the principal asked me if I could referee one of the games, and I had no idea what would happen that day would change my next phase in life.”

Magele said she was selected in the development of referees in Samoa because of the opportunities she took. “I want to encourage students to come to BYUH and to make sure you take ownership of your learning.When you return to your country, make sure you use what you learned from BYUH.” Pao said, “My favorite thing to do on campus was attending social activities on Fridays. Whether it was in the Aloha Center Ballroom, the Little Circle or at the Hub. I loved signing in to different clubs and being able to attend their yearly activities.”

After graduating in 2017, Pao said she did her student internship at Freedom Prep Academy in Provo, Utah. After her three-month internship, Pao said she flew home to Samoa to look for a job. “It only took me one month to find a job and then I got hired one month later to teach English at Middle School Pesega.”

Leauanae stated her favorite things to do at BYUH include playing volleyball,

classes at BYUH have helped shape me to be the teacher that I am today. For that, I am forever grateful that I have chosen the right school to be educated at and have crossed paths with great friends, leaders and professors in school who have supported and contributed so much in my educational life. Thank you BYUH.” Leauanae said, “After graduating in Winter 2019, I did my internship [in Hawaii] before coming back to Samoa. The three years of working and going to school at the same time gave me a hint of what the real world is. The skills and knowledge that I gained from my different jobs, while in Hawaii, helped me so much with my job right now.

“It was a blessing for me to attend BYUH and I am grateful for those before me for being great role models for us who came after.” •

F E B RUA RY 2021 51

Learning from the land Akane Sasaki seeks out ancient Hawaiian gardening techniques from local kupuna to use at the Sustainability Center’s garden

By Serena Dugar Ioane

A

kane Sasaki, a junior from Japan majoring in elementary education and a leader of the Garden Team at the Sustainability Center, said gardening has strengthened her love and appreciation for nature and for Heavenly Father. Her coworkers praised her passion for gardening and diligence.

Sasaki shared, “I used to raise my own vegetables in Japan, and I missed taking care of plants when I came to Hawaii. When I found out that the Sustainability Center was hiring, I was so happy and applied for the job.”

Leslie Harper, a sophomore from Canada majoring in supply chain and the manager of the BYU–Hawaii Sustainability Center, said, “When she started working, I put her in charge of the Garden Team. She would have been happy to just be in charge of several garden boxes and take care of them, but I assigned her to lead a team, which was out of her comfort zone.”

Harper continued, “She has done such a great job. Our garden boxes were mostly empty, but now they are full of growing plants.

Her team members love her. Her passion for gardening draws people who have the same interests as her. She is also learning composting, [recycling plants to create soil conditioners].”

Sasaki said her days pass quickly while she takes care of plants. “I check my plants daily.

When it is needed, I water, fertilize and harvest them. I do composting to make better soil.”

The best part of what she does is sharing her knowledge and what she’s harvested with others, said Sasaki.

Learning from nature Sasaki shared her job helped her to develop appreciation of nature and plants.

“From my job I am able to learn about Hawaiian nature. The soil, weather, wind, 52 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

temperature, plants, insects, seeds, water.

Everything is so different from Japan, so I struggled at first,” she explained.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, many students who worked at the garden left.

Because of this, Sasaki said she didn’t have anyone to teach her or to answer her questions.

“I googled and watched YouTube videos, but it didn't help that much. However, the knowledge from local people helped me.”

Sasaki said wherever she goes, she observes people's gardens and asks community members questions about plants. What helped her most, she said, was nature.

“I watched the sky, the moon, the sun, rain, insects and the color of the leaves. I touch soil and leaves and smell them. Nature teaches me what the plants need. I use the Kamehameha moon calendar as well,” Sasaki explained.

Tomoyuki Akiyama, a marketing alumnus from Japan who graduated in December 2020, was a coworker of Sasaki. Akiyama said, “She is such a kind and lovely person. She has a strong desire to serve people. She grew up on her grandma’s farm and has mature knowledge about gardening.”

Sasaki emphasized that gardening is not an easy job. “You must get your hands dirty and work hard just to get one vegetable. But you will learn an appreciation for life. Nature and life are amazing and so beautiful. Nature gives us food, so we must malama [take care of] our aina [land].”

Akiyama commented, “She always surprises me by her ways of gardening. Since she started to work for the Sustainability Center’s farm, she made a big difference. Her team succeeded and harvested so many pounds of vegetables.”

Sasaki shared she learned in her Hawaiian studies class how important kalo [taro] is for Hawaiian people. “I learned how ancient Hawaiian people used the moon calendar to take care of plants. ... I want to learn more about the kalo and moon calendar.”

'Ike kupuna Sasaki shared her desire to learn the knowledge of gardening passed down from ancient Hawaiians. “Because I am in this beautiful island of Hawaii, I really want to learn from people who know about Hawaiian plants, especially about kalo.”

Sasaki said she likes to watch Uncle Jerry Konanui’s videos. “Uncle Konanui explained the importance of 'ike kupuna [generation of knowledge], and I believe in it. 'Ike kupuna is better than googling,” she added.

Dermont Christensen, a full-time volunteer at the Sustainability Center, said, “I am impressed with Akane. She is a very focused, gentle and caring person. She is passionate about what she does and pays great attention to details.

“I have some gardening experience, so she asks many questions from me. She tries new seeds, and she loves growing things. She is determined to succeed individually and also as a team,” Christensen shared.

Sasaki said she first learned about gardening from her aunt and uncle in Japan.

“My uncle learned from his parents. The ancestors passed down the knowledge to us.

“Because of COVID-19, it is difficult. But I love to meet people who have 'Ike kupuna and listen to their stories and learn from them.”

Akiyama explained, “[Sasaki] is also a great leader. She organizes weekly meetings to train her team members and improve the garden.

She taught us how to cook the vegetables we harvested. She is just awesome.”

Harper said, “I know that she will grow wonderful things the rest of her life. She will be an elementary teacher, so she will be able to pass her gardening knowledge to the younger generation as well.” •

Tomoyuki Akiyama (bottom left, pictured in a green shirt) said, since Sasaki started she’s made a big difference and her team has harvested many pounds of vegetables. Photos provided by Akane Sasaki.

F E B RUA RY 2021 53

Preserving history

Library archivist, Brooks Haderlie,

says the BYUH archives hold important and historical books, manuscripts, photos and some 1,500 Polynesian cultural artifacts 54 KE AL AK A‘I 2021

Brooks Haderlie said BYUH Archives are considered an essential resource. Photos by Mark Tabbilos.

BY LISI TIAFAU

B

rooks Haderlie, the archivist at BYU–Hawaii, said the universiy’s Archives have a great responsibility not just to preserve history, but to preserve culture. “We are trying to be very careful because the materials we have are important, and we want to keep them for people to have access to for as long as possible,” he said.

“It’s a fascinating job and it’s so enjoyable to have diversity in what I do every day,” Haderlie said of his position.

“I’ve been able to learn so much about the history of the area, and the people are the most important.”

The documents, Haderlie said, have been created over the course of the creation of the Church College of Hawaii, now BYUH. Other materials, he said, comes from the Polynesian Cultural Center and local church members.

Haderlie said the area of focus for the archives section of the library

deliver [the materials] and they’ll use them just in that room,” he said.

“We encourage students to use [the archives] understanding that we might not have what they’re looking for. This is a slow process because to try to find possible boxes, photographs or whatever that might be of interest. It takes time.”

Haderlie stated the archive’s materials should not be checked out because the archives are the only place to have those materials. During the pandemic, he said the University restricted the archives section to only current students and employees.

He said, “The archives was able to stay open during the pandemic because we were considered an essential resource. All of our questions have come through email or on the telephone.”

Before the pandemic, Haderlie said they would bring out boxes and have

“My wife and I have traveled to each of the islands now and have gone to the Church sites on each of the islands to just kind of help us understand the background of where people came from, what was important and what are the most important events. That is what we would like patrons to know. We have some amazing information.”

Xyron Levi Corpuz, a sophomore from the Philippines majoring in communications, media and culture, said, “The archives are a great place to visit if you are doing research. It is very useful to students for their school work and also for their job.”

Corpuz added he visited the archives when it held an exhibit of an old copy of the Book of Mormon from the early days of the Church.

Graphics by Sadie Madriaga.

includes books, manuscripts, photos, audio and video recordings, and some 1,500 Polynesian cultural artifacts.

“An archive is different from a library. A library has books that have been published. They go out and they order those books. An archive gathers whatever information is available and people are willing to donate,” Haderlie said.

Anyone is allowed to come and use the archive’s materials, he said. “[BYUH students] come into this room and we help them figure out what they’re looking for. We try to determine if we have materials that might be helpful for their project and, if we do, then we will

people look through them to see if the information they needed was there. Now, he said, they have to go through the boxes themselves to find possible information, scan it and email it to the person.

Although the way the archives provides assistance has changed, Haderlie said, “Our work did not stop.” He explained the archives are trying to digitize as much information as possible in order to make it easier to access information, even if someone is off island.

“Eventually we’ll have a listing of each item, so people will have a nice photograph and a description of it in English and in Hawaiian. People can search for those materials in multiple languages,” Haderlie explained.

He said, “When I found out what they were doing, I was interested and had to see the book in person. It was a pretty cool experience.”

Corpuz added the archives have also helped him in his job. “I am a journalist for the Ke Alaka‘i, and when I work on stories about the history of Laie or BYUH, the archives were a really big help.”

Peyton Seiuli, a senior from Idaho majoring in cultural anthropology who works in the Center for Academic Success, said, “It’s a great place to go if you have questions or want to learn more about Hawaiian history and lots of other things.” •

F E B RUA RY 2021 55

56 KE AL AK A‘I 2021