September-October 2019 by Ke Ola Magazine

Front cover: Regal, a photograph by Rita French. Table of contents: The Watchful Protector, a photograph by Tommy Adkins. Read more about the artists on page 85.

The Life

Hawaiÿi Island’s Community Magazine September – October | Kepakemapa – ÿOkakopa 2019

Arts

Castles in the Sand

Fantuzzi

By Catherine Tarleton

Global Troubadour at Home on Hawai‘i Island By Mālielani Larish

Community

Animal Rescue Goes Hi-Tech Grassroots

The Meaningful Construction of Daifukuji Soto Mission

Start Fishing!

Look for the Helpers

Aunty BJ Pa

Lava Flows and Dairy Farm Closures Help Create a Rescue Response By Lara Hughes

By Fern Gavelek

The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament Celebrates 60 Years By Karen Rose How Hawaii Tracker Became a Pivotal Community Resource By Denise Laitinen Tahitan Dance Pioneer Paved the Way By Tiffany DeMasters

Culture

ʽĀhua A ‘Umi Heiau: King ‘Umi’s Legacy By Sara Stover

Sustainability

Hawai‘i’s Endangered Birds

Kawaihae I: Bringing an Ahupua‘a Back to Life

By Stefan Verbano By Jan Wizinowich

Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge 43 A Return to the ‘Āina By Brittany P. Anderson

Helping the Hawaiian Hawksbill Turtle Using Photo-ID

Seeds of a New Industry

By Cheryl King

A History of Cannabis on Hawai‘i Island By Stefan Verbano

Laupahoehoe Graphics Coloring Books Canvas Bags Postcards • Notecards Luggage Tags 2020 Desktop Calendars Original Commissions Available

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The Life

Hawaiÿi Island’s Community Magazine September – October | Kepakemapa – ÿOkakopa 2019

Ka Wehena: The Opening Eō Ka Wahine ‘Onipa‘a Mau

By Kumu Keala Ching

Business

Managing with Aloha

Ho‘omau Kākou By Rosa Say

Island Treasures

Puna Kamali‘i Flowers, Inc.

Talk Story With An Advertiser

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Basically Books Team Sold Ocean Sports

Local Food

Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō Trail & Island Birder Trail Mix Recipe By Brittany P. Anderson

Kela Me Keia: This & That

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

New ER Opening Early 2020!

Meet the Cover and Table of Contents Artists Crossword Puzzle Hawai‘i Island Happenings Community Kōkua Farmers Markets Advertiser Index

Ka Puana: Closing Thoughts

85 86 88 90 92 96

804: He manu ke aloha, ‘a‘ohe lālā kau ‘ole. 98 Mary Kawena Pukui, Olelo Noeau: Hawaiian Proverbs and Poetical Sayings.

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From Our Publisher ho‘oponopono is to make right more right. Which brings to mind Kumu Keala Ching’s opening chant for this issue. It’s a dedication to Queen Lili‘uokalani in honor of her birthday on September 2nd. This strong woman stood up for what she believed. She would be so proud of her descendants. Be sure to celebrate her at the 20th annual Queen Lili‘uokalani Festival on September 7th at Lili‘uokalani Gardens in Hilo. (More information on page 84.) I also want to mention another strong, dear woman we recently lost, Jacqueline Leilani “Skylark” Rosetti. Skylark’s voice and presence was an institution on this island for decades and she is dearly missed. We published a story on Skylark in our May– June 2015 issue, which can be read on our website. In July, we also lost another important pillar of the community, musician Stanceford “Stan” Kaina. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to share Stan’s story before his passing, however we will be sharing it in early 2020 in his memory. Life is precious. It is our honor to share these stories about life on Hawai‘i Island and the preservation of it. Join us in getting involved in whatever way moves you. Aloha nui, Barbara Garcia

Corrections Perpetuating Tradition, Creating Cultural Practice [July/Aug 2019] The photographs for Perpetuating Tradition, Creating Cultural Practice were provided courtesy of Kiana Bourne, Kahiki Photograhy. Mahalo Kiana. Island Treasures—One Gallery [July/Aug 2019] One Gallery’s correct phone number is 961-2787

MAHALO TO OUR STORY SPONSORS Ahualoa Farms – Local Agriculture

Clark Realty – Home/Building

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I’ve seen this magazine go through many metamorphoses in our almost 11 years of publishing. While performing several different roles, I have recently taken on the editor’s responsibilities. I am more involved than ever in choosing the story content for the magazine, which I good-naturedly say might or might not be a good thing. As anyone who has ever read one of my letters knows, sustainability is one of my strongest core values, and it becomes more obvious when I review the table of contents and see we have more sustainability stories than we normally do in one issue. Last issue I wrote about conservation. This issue is also about conservation—I’m noticing a theme about people who care enough to put actions ÿIo, photo by Rita French to their words. Whether it’s endangered birds, livestock, sea life, land—or even cultural sites, buildings, science, and community—people on Hawai‘i Island are mobilizing to ensure their passion for conserving what is important to them is fulfilled. I have so much respect for people who spring into action when they feel passionate about something. Read about the folks behind Hawaii Tracker, who sprang into action on a moment’s notice to create their Facebook group. They originally created it to help people in Puna stay in touch with their community during their biggest times of need. Years later, it still serves a vital purpose. We also can’t ignore, regardless of which side of the issue anyone is on, the community who instantly and meticulously formed at Pu‘uhuluhulu in July. Pu‘uhonoa o Pu‘uhuluhulu has been able to function as a fully-sustainable village, including offering free education. It makes me wonder what the other possibilities are, if a group of former strangers can unite and organize so quickly, and keep aloha so very present. It makes me appreciate the root culture here even more and is one of the reasons I was drawn to live here. Remember this quote from Margaret Mead: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” The literal meaning of

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

_ Eo Ka Wahine ‘Onipa‘a Mau

Ka Wehena

Na Kumu Keala Ching

Eō ka wahine ‘onipa‘a mau I Pua kalaunu, Kui ‘ia lei hiwahiwa Kau mai i luna, He Ali‘i kupa mau E ‘onipa‘a ē, e ‘onipa‘a la Eō ka wahine ‘Onipa‘a Mau I ke kapa ke hau Moemoeā ka ‘Āina ‘Āina kamaha‘o ‘oe Kū kapu ke Ali‘i I hānai ke kama Ke kahu mālama nō Nā pua kaulana ‘Ai pōhaku ē ‘Onipa‘a ka wahine Ke Ali‘i kina‘ole Ma hope iho nō, Kū kia‘i mau Ho‘omana ke Ali‘i, E Lili‘uokalani Eō ka wahine ‘Onipa‘a Mau He Ali‘i ‘Onipa‘a Mau e Lili‘uokalani ē

Rejoice a woman determined forever A crown jewel of Hawai‘i Sewn are precious memories Honored upon the highest realm Always the people’s Queen Steadfast now and forever Rejoice a woman determined forever A blanket of protection As the land dreams of hope You are an amazing vessel Standing sacred are its people Your children are nurtured Descendants of a Queen Famous are the flowers Standing in unity Your voice of determination Indeed flawless and brilliant We are behind you always Standing guard forever Enlighten Queen Lili‘uokalani Rejoice a woman Determined forever Queen Lili‘uokalani, steadfast forever

Eō mai ka wahine ‘onipa‘a mau e Lili‘uokalani. ‘O ‘oe nō kō mākou ali‘i hānai ‘ike, ho‘omana ke Akua, kū ka la‘ana ā lawe ka lawena. Ma hope nō mākou iā ‘oe e Lili‘uokalani, ke ali‘i kina‘ole. ‘Onipa‘a mau, ‘Onipa‘a mau, Kū kia‘i mau ke ali‘i aloha palena‘ole. Rejoice a determined woman indeed, Lili‘uokalani. You are our Queen, nurturer of knowledge, a blessing of the Higher Power and a standing model of characteristic and values. We are always behind you, Lili‘uokalani, our flawless and brilliant leader. Determined forever, established forever, and standing guard forever in heavenly love! Honoring Queen Lili‘uokalani and a tribute to all protectors of indigenous intelligence, knowledge. ‘Onipa‘a Mau!

For more information on Kumu Keala and Nä Wai Iwi Ola, visit: nawaiiwiola.org

Hawai i s Endangered Birds By Stefan Verbano

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

awai‘i’s islands were once tropical paradises for birds. Ten million years ago, the winged founders of Hawai‘i’s endemic bird populations touched down on a partially formed, mid-Pacific island chain markedly different than any humans have since “discovered.” From that moment up until first contact, 142 distinct bird species found nowhere else on earth roamed the archipelago. Among them were the Hawaiian honeycreepers, with their bright plumage and canary songs, which arrived here from the Sino-Himalayas region of eastern Asia, descending from a genus known as rosefinches found within the finch family. At least 56 species of honeycreepers existed during Hawai‘i’s undisturbed era, making up nearly half of its 115 total species of endemic land birds. Like the forest birds, migratory species have also used the islands as seasonal habitat for eons. Other lost, adventurous, or storm-driven pioneers came, too—together making up a group of as few as 20 total species from which all of Hawai‘i’s endemic birds would evolve. Between 5.8 and 2.4 million years ago—almost concurrently with the formation of the island of O‘ahu—the vast majority of Hawai‘i’s unique honeycreeper species diverged from that first handful of finch-like new arrivals. They developed their own specialized feeding habits and, resultantly, specialized beak shapes to fulfill a wide variety of niches found on the

newly-emerging, uninhabited islands they encountered springing up to the southeast. In a very Darwinian-sounding tale, the honeycreepers underwent an extreme example of what evolutionary biologists call “adaptive radiation.” Isolated from their counterparts, with very few natural predators and an abundance of diverse food sources, the honeycreeper population soared, driven by mutational changes which allotted them beaks of many different sizes, shapes, and uses—parrot bills, warbler bills, finch bills, and others—to feed on a combination of forest fruits, seed pods, insects and nectar. Considering the degree of the honeycreepersʻ isolation and extent of their diversification, biologists remark that Charles Darwin’s famed Galapagos Islands finches pale in comparison to their Hawaiian relatives as the shining example of microevolution in action. Today, all but 18 subspecies of Hawai‘i’s honeycreepers are extinct, including the mamo, po‘o-uli, kākāwahie, nukupu‘u, ‘akialoa, Lāna‘i hookbill, Kona grosbeak, as well most of the ‘ākepa subspecies. From species outside the honeycreeper pantheon, the honeyeaters kioea and ‘ō‘ō, the thrushes kāma‘o and ‘āmaui, the highly

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Leader curlew.

photo courtesy of Meredith Miller

tame Laysan millerbird, the flightless Hawaiian rail, and Laysan rail are also gone forever. Of the 142 total endemic Hawaiian bird species from prehistory, 95 are now extinct; 33 of those remaining are listed under the US Endangered Species Act. Native shorebirds like the bristle-thighed curlew, and seabirds like the ‘ua‘u (Hawaiian petrel) and ‘a‘o (Newell’s shearwater) have each experienced plummeting populations, stuck with International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifications ranging from threatened to critically endangered, with habitat loss driving their decline. Hawai‘i Island itself is home to several of these enduring species, some of them having become critically endangered in recent years. Various honeycreeper subspecies once inhabited broad swaths of the massive island’s wet and semi-dry mountain and lowland koa and ‘ōhi‘a forests. With no natural immunity to introduced mainland avian diseases, many of these once-abundant populations have been reduced to clinging to small patches of mountain forests above 5,000 feet—the elevation line where fowlpox and avian malariacarrying mosquitoes can no longer survive. For migratory species with habitat on the island, their ancient homes have been crowded out by land development and polluted with artificial light, today only able to utilize small fragments of their historic range. Conservation efforts for threatened native birds punctuate Hawai‘i Island’s modern history, such as the Shipman family’s well-known captive breeding of nēnē (Hawaiian goose) began in 1918 at the family’s coastal estate in Puna. Starting with just four birds, patriarch W. H. Shipman’s youngest son Herbert bolstered their numbers and ultimately saved the nēnē from near-certain extinction—considering that by 1952 only 30 wild birds remained of approximately 25,000, which biologists believe lived in Hawai‘i at the time of Captain Cook’s first arrival in 1778. Nearly a century after Herbert Shipman’s successes, statewide inter-agency conservationists, with help from San Diego Zoo Global, launched the ‘Alalā Project to aid the captive-bred ‘alalā (Hawaiian crow), classified by IUCN as EW: Extinct in the Wild by working to restore its native habitat of endemic forest fruit trees and reestablishing a wild population on Hawai‘i Island.

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Curlew pair. photo courtesy of Meredith Miller Palila With its golden yellow head and breast, light belly, gray back, and olive-green wings and tail, the critically endangered palila is one of the largest living Hawaiian honeycreepers. The six-inch-tall bird’s diet consists almost exclusively of immature seeds from māmane trees. Other occasional food sources include naio berries, various fruits, māmane flower buds and young leaves, along with caterpillars and moths. The fates of the palila and māmane tree are inextricably linked. Two species found nowhere else on earth, the bird relies on the tree for food and habitat, as its hooked bill is perfect for opening māmane’s tough, fibrous seed pods. Droughts drive down the māmane seed crop, and in bad years palila don’t attempt to breed, as their reproductive success depends completely on the tree’s flourishing. Palila were once found at a range of elevations on O‘ahu and Curlew baby. photo courtesy of Meredith Miller

Palila. photo © of Judd Patterson via birdsinbocus.comp Kaua‘i, in addition to Hawai‘i Island on flanks of the volcanoes Hualālai, Maunaloa, and Maunakea. But since the introduction of mosquitoes, sheep, pigs, cattle, goats, cats, rats, and mongooses, their eggs and nestlings have been eaten, the māmane saplings that are their lifeline have been uprooted and destroyed, and avian diseases have eroded their habitat down to less than five percent of the species’ historic range—now a 25-square-mile enclave on the upper slopes of Maunakea between 6,500 and 9,500 feet. As late as the 19th century, the birds were found down at elevations as low as 4,000 feet. This

steep, steady decline in range has conservation biologists on edge: “It will happen until they have very little habitat left for them to survive in,” says Lainie Berry, the Hawai‘i Forest Bird Recovery coordinator at the Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Forestry and Wildlife. “We’re concerned in the immediate term to reverse these declines, but in the long term, we know we have to address the mosquito issue itself if the birds are going to survive into the future.” The most recent palila count, in February 2018, tallied 1,000

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

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KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Our bodies are reliant on oxygen more than any other substance for the smooth operation of each living cell. The absence or shortage of oxygen in the body predictably leads to crisis which can cause significant health issues, or even cell death. However, the increased delivery of oxygen through increased barometric pressure has demonstrated increased healing capacity in the body. Conventionally, hyperbaric has been used to treat Conventionall decompression sickness of divers, and diabetic foot wounds. Attention has been brought to the area of hyperbaric’s potential for improved recovery from injuries and decreased recovery time. Natural recovery from an injury has been expected to follow a traditional timeline. In other words, we are told that the body heals at a predictable set rate. Although comfort measures and traditional therapies can be applied, the patient must basically wait out the predetermined healing time that nature has set for us. However, with additional hyperbarics the previous standards of healing time have been revolutionized.  A new era in therapeutic treatment has arrived, as scientific data continually documents emerging uses of proven effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.  These are some frequently asked questions about hyperbarics.  Q: What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy?   A: A therapeutic treatment of increased atmospheric pressure, increasing the amount of oxygen per breath, significantly increasing oxygen delivery to the cells in the body.  Q: How does hyperbarics work?  A: In normal conditions, only red blood cells have the ability to carry oxygen in the blood stream. By way of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, inhaled oxygen is dissolved into the liquid part of the blood called plasma. This provides oxygen delivery deeper into the body at a significantly increased level.  Q: What are the effects of hyperbarics in the body? A: The increased oxygen delivery and saturation of the deprived areas has demonstrated improved ability to create new blood vessels, new nerve tissue, build new connective tissue, and accelerates growth of new cells during healing.   Q: Does hyperbarics improve physical performance?  A: Several studies have demonstrated improved 14 Dr. Mizuba serving in Pebble Beach at physical performance and this year’s US Open as Chiropractor decreased recovery time, with and Hyperbarics staff doctor.

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repeated and reproducible results.  Q: Does hyperbarics decrease pain?  A: Analgesia/pain levels have been reported to be decreased by 90-95% by several test studies.  Q: What can I expect during hyperbaric treatment?  A: Tsreatments last 15-90 minutes. Pressure is typically 1.2-3 atmospheres. People can lie down, sit up, or kneel inside a chamber. A gurney system is available and can assist an impaired person into the chamber. People usually read or choose to rest during treatment.   Q: Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy safe?  A: Yes, hyperbarics has demonstrated an impeccable track record when compared to many healthcare procedures over the past several decades. Pressures are typically lower in the present day then they had been in the past decades, as research has demonstrated the effectiveness of lower pressures with modern day techniques.  If you would like to perform at the top of your game, or simply return to the game, contact Dr. Mizuba to see how hyperbarics may benefit you.  Dr. Mizuba is a diplomate of the American Chiropractic D Board of Sports Physicians. He employs the practical use of chiropractic sports medicine in his practice for individuals seeking to maintain an active lifestyle. He serves as doctor for the USGA in the field of hyperbarics and chiropractic. He continues to be involved in the healthcare system for Major League Baseball and sideline doctor for athletic teams on the Big Island. Applying the benefits of hyperbarics and chiropractic sports medicine to his own endeavors, he has completed two long-distance swims of over 23 miles, and in triathlons since 1984.  From the athletic arena to the flower garden, let Dr. Mizuba keep you in your game! This sponsored content is courtesy of Healthways Chiropractic, located at 65-1206 Mamalahoa Hwy. in Waimea. For more information visit www.drmizuba.com or call 808-491-2462

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

There is a sparse ring of rare trees that surround Maunakea at about 6,000 feet, below the snow line. This mämane forest, once thriving throughout all the Hawaiian islands, is now Hawaiÿi’s last mämane forest, home to the endangered velvet red iÿiwi bird and the yellow and grey palila. Their existence is tethered to the graceful yet rare yellow mämane flower. The balance of life lies in a delicate thread of co-existence. The Endangered Ones, a painting by Pamela Colton Thomas.

ÿAÿo (Newells shearwater). photo © Jim Denny via kauaibirds.com.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

birds—the lowest count in 20 years. The IUCN has listed the species as “critically endangered.” With their numbers flagging along with forests of māmane, the tiny flock is in a precarious position when considering the natural disaster-prone reputation of Hawai‘i Island. “The population is very vulnerable to fire, hurricane, drought,” Lainie continues. “If something were to hit them, since the species isn’t spread out over a wide area, it could completely wipe them out.” All hope is not lost for the palila. Conservation efforts like DLNR’s Maunakea Forest Restoration Project (MKFRP), which includes in its ranks native bird experts like Lainie Berry, are replanting forests of māmane, removing grazing animals from critical habitat areas, erecting a 6-foot-high, 60-milelong continuous protective fence around the mountain, and breeding palila in captivity at the Keauhou Bird Conservation Center. MKFRP is a partnership of the US Forest Service, Natural Resources Conversation Service, American Bird Conservancy, and US Fish and Wildlife Service.

Bristle-Thighed Curlew (Hawaiian: Kioea, unrelated to the extinct honeyeater Kioea) The migratory bristle-thighed curlew breeds on the lower Yukon River and Seward Peninsula in Alaska during summer months, and spends winters seaside in the tropical Pacific on Hawaiian and other Polynesian islands. A medium-sized shorebird in the sandpiper family, the curlew is spotted brown with light belly and rust-colored tail, a long curved bill and bristly feathers at the base of its legs. The birds mostly walk on the ground while foraging, having an affinity for flowers, berries, insects, sea life, and other birds’ eggs, which they open with rocks—the only shorebird to use tools. Population estimates for the species hover around 7,000, with an IUCN listing of “threatened.” Their numbers on Hawai‘i Island’s Kona coast are just a tiny fraction of that. Currently, a flock comprised of less than a dozen birds left for Alaska this past May—all that remain of the curlew’s presence on Hawai‘i Island. Even this minuscule group of bent-beak shorebirds still faces threats from shoreline land development and predation by introduced species like cats, the latter largely due to the fact that many of the birds become flightless during molt. No one’s quite sure how many will return again from Alaska in August.

Meredith Miller, a Hawai‘i Island-based professional photographer, has happened upon the flock several times, using her camera skills to document these rare birds from afar in their increasingly man-made habitat. “I’ve spent time with them; I’ve listened to them,” Meredith says. “I’ve heard them sing. I see their playfulness...how they interact with each other, their little fights...their hierarchy; theyʻre always trying to exert dominance over one another. They run on the long legs they have; they only fly when they have to,” she says. “But they are really strong flyers, and when they go, they go—they leave in a hurry.” ‘A‘o (Newell’s Shearwater) Between April and November, seaside birdwatchers can spot the long-winged seabird known as Newell’s shearwater in ocean waters around the Hawaiian Islands. It’s black and brown on top with white under-parts, a thin hooked beak, and short tail, whose low, moaning call earned it the Hawaiian name ‘a‘o. It feeds far from land in deep water, diving in to catch squid and small fish, sometimes swimming down more than 150 feet using its wings to maneuver. Endemic to Hawai‘i, these shearwaters breed in two dozen colonies on mountain slopes mostly on Kaua‘i, but also parts of Hualālai and Kīlauea on Hawai‘i Island. Their population, estimated at 84,000 in the mid-1990s, has severely declined, now numbering somewhere between 16,000 and 19,000 breeding pairs, with an IUCN status of “critically endangered.” ‘Akiapōlā‘au Inhabiting old-growth dry to moist koa and ‘ōhi‘a lehua forests in Ka‘ū and Hāmākua regions, the noisy ‘akiapōlā‘au has assumed the role of woodpecker on Hawai‘i Island, where itʻs endemic. The bird is pudgy, half-a-foot tall with whitish bottom and tail, black legs, yellow chest, orange head, black face, gray-black wings and an unusually curved beak, which it uses to pound and scratch at bark while hunting for caterpillars, spiders, and hiding grubs. Since the disappearance—and presumed extinction—of the Maui and Kaua‘i nukupu‘u honeycreepers in the 1990s, ‘akiapōlā‘au appears to be the last of its genus. The bird’s habitat is similarly restricted by mosquitoes and predation by cats and dogs, which have dwindled its numbers down to approximately 1,000, with an IUCN status of “endangered.”

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ÿElepaio. photo © Eric VanderWerf via ebird.org

‘Elepaio ‘Elepaio, which isnʻt a honeycreeper, is the only member of more than 300 bird species in the Old World “flycatcher” family to successfully colonize the Hawaiian Islands on its own. It’s brown on top, white underneath, with white bars on dark wings and a long tail. Being one of the most adaptable native Hawaiian birds, ‘elepaio are fairly common on Hawai‘i Island and Kaua‘i, but rare on O‘ahu, where they were recently listed as endangered due to loss of habitat, introduced disease and predation. As an insectivore with a loud warble, this monarch flycatcher hunts for food in koa trees. Ancient Hawaiian canoe builders came to rely on them as indicators of whether certain trees would make for suitable wood. Inquisitive and chatty, they seemed unafraid of humans, and often followed builders through the forest, who would watch the birds intently; if the ‘elepaio pecked at a certain tree, its wood was likely riddled with burrowing insects and therefore unusable. This inspired the Hawaiian proverb:‘Uā ‘Elepaio ‘ia ka wa‘a—The ‘elepaio has [marked] the canoe [log] (Mary Kawena Pukui, Olelo No‘eau 2777). ■ Visit the Hawai‘i Island Festival of Birds, October 24–28 in Kona. For more information: birdfesthawaii.org For more information/Resources: State of Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Wildlife: dlnr.hawaii.gov/wildlife/ US Fish and Wildlife Service: fws.gov/pacificislands/teslist.html Hawai‘i Audubon Society: hawaiiaudubon.org/birding-in-hawaii Mauna Kea Forest Restoration Project (MKFRP): dlnr.hawaii. gov/restoremaunakea/ The ‘Alalā Project:dlnr.hawaii.gov/alalaproject/ San Diego Zoo Global, Keauhou Bird Conservation Center: institute.sandiegozoo.org/who-we-are/global-field-stations

Kawaihae I

Bringing an Ahupua‘a Back to Life By Jan Wizinowich

uring Kamehameha’s time, the ahupua‘a (land parcel) of Kawaihae fed thousands of people with its rich ocean resources and highly developed field system, irrigated from the abundant Kohala watershed. Now there are only remnants of that time within the arid, goat-infested slopes, and runoff that is compromising the shoreline waters and fisheries. The spirit of the land is rising up to speak through the efforts of the Kailapa Community Association (KCA) and their many partners. The Kailapa subdivision, given its name by Kawaihae kupuna Aunty Lani Akau, began development in the 1980s. Located just north of Kawaihae within the Kawaihae I ahupua‘a, Kailapa is now a community of 146 homes. Incorporated in 2004, the KCA acquired nonprofit status in 2010, when the association began moving towards creating the foundations for the development of a sustainable, resilient community based on Native Hawaiian values. One of their first steps was to gather to plan the construction of a multi-use pavilion that would be the piko (center) of the community. “The pavilion was built by volunteers from the community. It just worked. It really brought the community together and now we have a place to gather,” said KCA Executive Director Diane Kaneali‘i. What came out of the pavilion planning process was the vision to work together to achieve self-sufficiency through traditional Hawaiian values. Now, essentially complete, the pavilion provides a place to share knowledge, traditions, and practices.

A Net Thrown Wide With the potential of 10,000 acres and limited water sources, creating a functioning ahupua‘a is a tall order, but along with Kailapa community resources—landscapers, heavy equipment operators, cultural practitioners, ranchers, la‘au lapa‘au (medical practioners), and entertainers to name a few—KCA is receiving help from its connections to the broader community. In January 2018, the KCA was selected as one of two Hawai‘i communities to participate in the Resilient Hawaiian Community Initiative (RHCI), a one-year program funded through the Department of the Interior, which seeks to combine a biocultural framework for resilience by using local/ traditional ecological knowledge and cutting-edge science. Beginning in April 2018, the community met with Pacific Solutions and their team of specialists to ponder the question: what is important to you, and what are your fundamental values in this? A massive amount of information was gathered and with the guiding vision of “‘Ehuehu I ka Pono” (Thrive in Balance), the KCA developed a resilience plan that balances wai, ‘āina, and kānaka. Three core values emerged as a guiding framework: mālama ‘āina, or resource management; noho kū‘olo‘a, or self-sufficiency; and laulima, or community cohesiveness. First, Know Your Place In order to mālama ‘āina, one has to understand the land

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

19 Hope for a sustainable future. photo courtesy of Diane Kanealiÿi

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

and what it needs, so for KCA, the first step is to get access to the entire ahupua‘a. The Department of Hawaiian Homelands, which owns the entire ahupua‘a, has leased out some upper sections to which KCA is in the process of gaining access. “Once we get right of entry and we can get on to the land, we can begin to understand the issues and how we mitigate those issues, how we care for the place before we start to put our needs onto it,” explained Diane. Most crucial to feeding the land is access to water, which has, in recent history, been diverted for use by the ranches. Traditional irrigation brought water down from 5000 feet in a controlled ‘auwai network, which in turn created a thriving field system. The Kehena ditch with its 16-inch pipe laid in 1968 is a potential major source of water. “We took a trip up there [Kohala watershed] with Tim Richards and water resource managers and yes, the pipe is there and still intact to bring water down. Now the Commission of Water Resource Management, an agency in charge of all potable water in the state, needs to put in gauges so we know how much water is coming out of there. There’s plenty of water for everyone but we need to get our share of it,” said Diane. In the hoped-for scenario for Kawaihae I, water and power are inextricably linked. As the water flows down the mountain there is potential to generate power, as the water will be captured in a series of reservoirs afloat with solar panels.

Discovering the Past in the Landscape KCA has also been able to get some outside help to understand the natural systems that were once at play and allow them to thrive again. “Dr. Michael Graves has been coming from New Mexico to study these fields. He’s taken soil samples and was able to document how the water came down because the old ‘auwai system is still intact,” said Diane. Using traditional historic resources, information provided by Dr. Graves and topographic imaging provided through the use of Geographic Information System mapping, a clearer picture of the ahupua‘a is developing. Also based on traditional knowledge the ahupua‘a is divided up into zones that reflect their historical use. These zones have been given the term “campuses,” as they will provide real-world learning labs for KCA community members and their partner organizations, as well as future student groups. “Each campus will offer people, schools, and the general public opportunities to come learn and take in what the land has to give to them,” explained previous project

Nä Kilo ÿÄina participants get hands-on lessons in reef life. photo courtesy of Diane Kanealiÿi

manager Jordon Hollister. Beginning at the top, “The mauka portion is the wao akua, where the aquafers are recharged and contains the rainforest, so that would be a campus to learn about those things,” said Jordon. “Wao nahele, where Kahuā Ranch is leasing, is another campus for people to learn about starting a new forest.” The next campus is wao kanaka, which holds the potential for lessons in sustainable ranching and agriculture. Below wao kanaka is wao ‘ilima, an area that once held an extensive field system. “There’s a lot of agricultural fields that exist there that are very well preserved. It’s a place to learn about traditional Hawaiian agriculture and reinstitute the agricultural field

Kawaihae ahupuaÿa from the mountain top. photo courtesy of Diane Kanealiÿi system with adaptive reuse, and reopen those fields,” said Diane. Below that is the ‘oihana campus, which is traditionally designated for a profession or job, and already contains a solar-powered aquaculture operation. “This site would focus more on 21st century agricultures, aquacultures, solar farms. Whatever we can do to make ourselves more self-sufficient,” explained Jordon. The Kahakai campus, which is 72 shoreline acres across the highway from Kailapa will be a place to learn about managing shoreline resources. “Keali‘i Maielua is our manager for this oceanfront project. Keali‘i and his wife Pualani, who is on our board, are part of Na Kalai Wa‘a, so that’s the part that called to them. They’re walking it to see what the land tells them, what the land needs,” said Jordon. “There’s potential for a kai campus as well. There are fishing grounds out there, and we’d like to keep alive the practices to mālama the fishing grounds,” he added.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

To Observe and Move Forward Along with revitalized field systems and revegetated slopes to prevent erosion and runoff, fishing grounds, an essential food source, need to be managed. To gain an understanding of

the management of this resource, the KCA, along with partners Kai Kuleana and South Kohala Coastal Partnership, took a trip to Moloka‘i to meet with Uncle Mac Poepoe to learn about managing community fisheries. Service learning was interspersed with explorations of the north shore of Moloka‘i and the proposed Community-Based Subsistence Fishing Area. Upon their return, the groups gathered to record what they had gleaned and to create a picture of what an ocean fisheries management plan for Kawaihae might look like. For the last seven years KCA, looking towards future generations, has sponsored the Nā Kilo ‘Āina ocean camp, led by Pelika Andrade. Kilo are traditional watchers and observers of the land and ocean, to guide resource management. For one week in October, students gather to observe and study their environment. Participants come away with a sense of the connectivity between the natural processes that are crucial to a healthy ahupua‘a. “They study the ‘opihi and observe moon and spawning cycles, examine gonads and make comparisons in take and no-take areas, matching science with kupuna knowledge,” explained Diane.

WWW.HARBORGALLERY.BIZ An auwai that makes up part of the irrigation for the field system. KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

photo courtesy of Diane Kanealiÿi

A New Ahupua‘a in the Making The KCA has set a solid foundation of goals, values, and intentions that will help the island community see the potential for a sustainable future, and perhaps lead the way for other ahupua‘a. With the guidance of traditional Hawaiian values in combination with adaptive reuse using the available technology, Kawaihae I has the potential to provide renewable resources that reach beyond its boundaries. “We are fortunate to have the opportunity to take on this role to create a thriving sustainable ahupua‘a. Thousands of people were fed off these lands and I believe that we can do that again. These are huge opportunities that we are trying to create and bring to fruition but it’s not something that’s going to be done overnight,” concluded Diane. ■

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By Catherine Tarleton n any given day, a sunset beachgoer might take the stroll along Kauna‘oa or Mau‘umae beaches and happen upon something remarkable. Spires and staircases of sand stand in wait for some tiny mermaid; tan-khaki-taupe hibiscus and plumeria flowers bloom on the shoreline; huge letters spell “Kapu.” The visitor pauses, taking in the work of art, soon to be eroded by the onshore wind and encroaching tide. These sculptures are the work of sand artist Mike Radtke, who dedicates many hours—and a great deal of aloha—to his creations. “I do pretty good work I’d say, if I have to grade myself,” Mike says. Of his estimated 250 sand sculptures, he likes the complex formations best. “My favorite, or the most complex, was kind of an abstract castle,” Mike says, “It was twisted like a Dr. Seuss drawing. Two towers twisted into each other as the stairways wind into each other. It’s about six feet tall and nine feet wide.” Living in Oregon until age two, Mike moved to Australia with his family when his father got a teaching job there. When they came back to the US, he spent time with his grandmother in Nebraska, and with his father when he was teaching in Alaska. Mike also spent time at the family property on Maui, and on O‘ahu. “As an adult, I got to pick my own island,” Mike says, and he’s now a resident of Kapa‘au in North Kohala. “This island has the same vibe as Alaska...If I could pick anyplace on any island, it would be Kapa‘au. I have this backyard with any kind of fruit tree, and a big banyan for shade.” Mike enjoys his Hawai‘i Island life, which he shares for 8 months of the year with his wife Nancy and their grandson. During the summer, he returns to Alaska, where he owns and operates a mom-and-pop-style grocery store and rental cabins—which he built with his son—in the remote village of Nanawaleck. He also runs a landing craft. “The doors open onto the land, like a military amphibious vehicle,” says Mike. “The landing craft, the store and the cabins keep me busy for four months straight, then I can come back and enjoy the islands.” Bigger Buckets How does a 40-ish business owner, outdoorsman, dad, and husband become a sand sculptor? It all began at the beach. “My four-year-old granddaughter came to the Big Island and she wanted to build a sandcastle,” said Mike. “So I got her a sandcastle kit, with little buckets and shovels. I helped her build a sandcastle and found I had a knack for it. And I thought, ‘If I got bigger buckets, I could make bigger castles.’ So I got bigger buckets.” His process begins with the sand itself. Mike prefers new

Mike Radtke’s intricate sandcastles require hours of hauling water and sand to lay the foundation. photo courtesy of Mike and Nancy Radtke

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Windows, niches, staircases, and other details are carved with trowels and cake decorating tools. photo courtesy of Mike and Nancy Radtke

sand, more recently formed, uniform, and with sharper edges, like those often found in the South Kohala district. At other beaches, in Kona for example, the sand is older, more rounded at the corners, and less likely to hold together well. Once he tried to build at Pololū. “I loved it because it was good sand and black sand,” Mike recalls. “But I didn’t have my tools, so I used a plastic spoon and a credit card!” He doesn’t always know what he’s going to build. “I try to come to the beach with no preconception of what I’m doing to do. One time I said, ‘I’m going to do the Roman Coliseum.’ It was terrible. So, I just wing it, whatever I feel like. It depends on the sand, too. If I have really good sand, I go for it, arches everywhere. If I have a good day, it’s all because of the sand.” Mike says that the foundation is everything. He begins any sculpture by shoveling sand and hauling water to saturate the ground at his selected spot. “I’m really familiar with the tides. I pick my spot. I pretty much know how far the water comes,” Mike said. “I pour water from five-gallon buckets. Then I do 25 scoops of sand with a shovel. Then I pack it down with my feet. And I repeat that about four times, to make a big mound that looks kind of like a volcano...Half of the work is getting sand tall enough and big enough to do what I want to do.” Once the foundation is laid and the mound of saturated sand is set, he begins carving. “I start at the top and work my way down,” he says. “I have a mortar tool, and an icing tool like you use for cakes, and a spoon that I use for windows, arches, and stuff like that.” “I like to time my work to finish in the evening, five o’clockish, when the shadows are best,” he says. “It seems to be at its peak at that time.” But not everything always goes as planned. “Sand is so fragile. I’ll be half an hour from finishing, Mike loves to work on the Kohala Coast beaches, where sands are older and less coarse. This spire stands before Kaunaÿoa Bay. photo courtesy of Mike and Nancy Radtke

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

and the whole side will collapse,” he says. “And then when they’re three or four days old, sometimes they’re even better.” The Sands of Time Historians claim that sand art has been practiced across many cultures and centuries. There is conjecture that ancient Egyptians built sand models of the pyramids. Sand painting (pouring colored sand or pigments on a flat surface to form a temporary image) was performed historically by Native Americans, particularly the Navajo, for healing purposes, and by Australian Aborigines. Tibetan Buddhist sand mandalas are some of the most famous sand art in the world—always destroyed after completed to demonstrate the metaphor of impermanence. In Japan, the 700-year-old craft of bonseki creates paintings by sprinkling sand on black lacquered trays, then brushing with feathers to create textures. In 14th century India, sand sculpting was a religious devotional practice. According to sand artist/historian Lucinda Wierenga, of Atlantic City, the first profitable sand artists worked in New Jersey in the late 1890s, as pedestrians strolling along the boardwalk would toss coins into their hats. A 1901 article by Emory James discusses artist/professor Eugen Bormel who sculpted sand on the German coast near Nordeney for many years. In the 1930s, one of Britain’s most legendary sand sculptors, Fred Darrington, began creating castles, pyramids, racehorses, and more along the beach at Weymouth. Like Mike, he always gave credit to the consistency of the sand, working with very coarse sand that bound together solidly. He too started by mixing water and sand (one pint to two pounds), laying a foundation first, then carving with a knife or lollipop stick. Today’s sand sculptors compete in large-scale sand castle contests in numerous US states, Australia, Philippines, Europe, Canada, Peru, and Puerto Rico. An international team of artists who built a 57.94-foot-tall sandcastle in Germany in June 2019 holds the Guinness World Record for sand sculpture.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Mike loves to spend time in the sun, and appreciates the workout he gets from his sand sculptures. photo courtesy of Mike and Nancy Radtke

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A finished Radtke castle is a work of art to be admired by passersby, but only for a little while. photo courtesy of Mike and Nancy Radtke

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M.C. Escher and Antoni Gaudi are two artists who admirers mention in comparison with Mike’s sand art. photo courtesy of Mike and Nancy Radtke

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

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A Style of His Own Mike doesn’t compete or go for records. For him, sand sculpting is something he does for himself, and for the experience. “I love going to the beach, I love being in the sun, I love taking care of my body,” Mike says. “Unintentionally, my work gets a big response and people take pictures.” Mike focuses on original creations. He doesn’t watch television, so is often surprised when people ask if that’s the castle from Game of Thrones, for example. And, he says he doesn’t have a particular style, or an artist he tries to emulate. His art, however, has been compared to Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher, whose complex drawings often featured intertwining staircases and walkways. Another artist people mention is Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi. Eclectic, frequently intricate and fanciful, seven of Gaudi’s works have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. “Just to be mentioned with them in the same breath is a huge compliment,” Mike said. “Sometimes I do Hawaiian words, like ‘kapu,’” he elaborates. “Tourists ask what it means and it leads to a conversation. Like, ‘Kapu, what does that mean?’ I tell them it has different meanings, but in this case, it means sacred, because to me, Mau‘umae is a sacred beach.” One day a mindfulness teacher told Mike that his artwork is a form of mindfulness. Serendipitously, he met Nancy that same day, on that same beach, and told her what happened. “She said, ‘Oh my God, I’ve read all of his books. Can you get his autograph?’ I said, ‘Maybe we’ll invite him for supper.’” Nancy is also an artist. “My wife is Native Alaskan. Her master’s

thesis was about how Native Alaskans have been practicing mindfulness since the beginning of time.” As the sun goes down, Mike may take a moment to breathe and admire the work of the day. Perhaps someone strolls by for a closer look, a photo, or a conversation. Perhaps he’s the only one to see it, or maybe there will be remnants when he

comes back. “I finish a sculpture and walk away,” Mike says. “I know a kid could squish it, a bird could land on it, a wave can take it, and that’s fine as long as it doesn’t happen right before my eyes.” To see Mike’s one-of-a-kind art in person, you’ll need to find it on the beach! ■

As the day ends, Mike takes a moment to appreciate his sculpture, before leaving it at the mercy of the wind and tide. photo courtesy of Mike and Nancy Radtke

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

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Puÿu ÿÖÿö Trail & Island Birder Trail Mix Recipe

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By Brittany P. Anderson

Don’t make the same mistake I made! Pack this hearty island-inspired trail mix on your next Hawai‘i Island adventure. Island Birder Trail Mix 3 cups old-fashioned oats 1 cup tamari almonds 1/2 cup sunflower seeds 1/2 cup pepitas 1/4 cup hazelnuts 2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp sea salt 1/2 cup melted coconut oil 1/3 cup local honey 1 tsp Hawaiian vanilla extract 1/4 tsp nutmeg 2/3 cup unsweetened flaked coconut 1/2 cup dehydrated bananas cut into chunks Heat oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet, or two smaller ones, with parchment paper, and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, stir together oats, almonds, sunflower seeds, pepitas, hazelnuts, cinnamon, and sea salt until evenly combined. In a separate mixing bowl, stir together coconut oil, honey, and vanilla until combined. Pour the coconut oil mixture into the oats mixture, and stir until evenly mixed. Spread the granola out evenly on the baking sheet. Place in the center rack of the oven and bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Remove from the oven, then add the coconut and bananas in, giving the mixture a good stir before cooking for another 5 minutes. The granola should be lightly toasted and golden. Remove from the oven and let cool until the granola reaches room temperature. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one month. Enjoy with milk for breakfast or as a snack on your favorite hike.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

One of my favorite hikes on Hawai‘i Island is the Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō Trail, located off Saddle Road (Daniel Inouye Highway/Route 200) at the base of Maunaloa, between the 22 and 23 mile markers. The nearly 9-mile long trail weaves through oldgrowth forest and ‘a‘ā lava, offering a variety of scenery along the way. The trail was once used as a cattle path for Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō Ranch to take their cattle from the slopes of Maunakea to the Puna coast. The historic trail connects kīpuka (forested pockets saved from lava flows) populated with ‘ōhi‘a, koa, and oversized ‘i‘o nui ferns, where native birds sing, flitting from branch to branch. Because the area is easily accessible, it is a favorite for local and traveling birders. Carefully walking the jagged ‘a‘ā lava trailhead, my husband and I enter a forest of ‘ōhi‘a. Bird calls break the silence as a flash of red catches my eye in the periphery. Is it a bird or a flower? From the other side of the trail the ‘apapane, with its high-pitched squawk punctuating the end of its song, breaks the silence. About a half-mile in, the path comes to a clearing with another forest ahead. On a misty day, the grey creates a fairy-tale mood, and I can imagine cattle being driven by oldtime paniolo (cowboys). We travel further until the forest turns to grassland before the neighboring kīpuka. Flaming red birds swoop overhead from one forest pocket to the next so we decide to sit under a large koa. This area is an excellent spot to look for endangered Hawai‘i Island birds like the Hawai‘i ‘ākepa (Loxops coccineus), ‘akiapōlā‘au (Hemignathus wilsoni), and alawī (Loxops mana.) I put my water bottle down and sit under the large koa tree. Dried crescent-shaped leaves litter the ground as I look up into the branches overhead. “Over there!” my husband whispers as he points, but just as my head turns the bird flies from sight. Our heads swivel while the sound of birds come from all directions—one answering the other as they continue their dance. Time seems to stand still on the Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō Trail. As we gaze into the trees, my stomach begins to growl letting us both know it is lunchtime. Suddenly, the bay of a sheep cuts through the trees to our right. Feral sheep and goat populations roam the lava fields, eating native plants along their way. Some critical habitats are protected with fences but not the kīpuka of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō Trail. As if to answer the sheep’s call, my stomach growls loudly again. I had forgotten snacks—a cardinal sin in hiking. Reluctantly, we get up from our cozy birdwatching spot pausing for a moment to catch one more glimpse of the blazing orange ‘ākepa flitting from ‘ōhi‘a to ‘ōhiʻa.

Animal Rescue Goes Hi-Tech Grassroots: Lava Flows and Dairy Farm Closures Help Create a Rescue Response By Lara Hughes

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

ith the recent lava flow and dairy farm shut downs happening on Hawaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;i Island, a number of grassroots animal rescue organizations have sprung forth from the ashes. There was suddenly a movement to save animals from suffering and slaughter, and reunite lost pets with loved ones. In large part, thanks to social media and platforms like GoFundMe, these organizations have been able to provide services, reconnection, and opportunities to widen the animal rescue circle. Krishna Cow Sanctuary and Hawaii Lava Flow Animal Rescue Network are two such organizations that have stepped up to provide a local animal rescue network and offer a holistic approach to rehabilitation for rescued animals, the environment, and even business.

HOLI Natural Farming with Krishna Cow Sanctuary Narayan Higgins was pursuing a degree in business administration before the cows came 32 home to pastureâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;literally. He was sitting in a

Rescued cows at the Krishna Cow Sanctuary. photo courtesy of Narayan Higgins

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

classroon at college, watching the clock, when a speech written by Steve Jobs was read aloud. “In Steve Jobs’s speech he says, ‘If you are in a room where you are constantly looking at the clock, that is not where you are supposed to be.’” Narayan immediately took those words to heart, stood up, walked out, and never went back again. Once he started doing what he really cared about, the pieces fell into place on their own. Today Narayan is the head cow herder at Krishna Cow Sanctuary in Kea‘au. He has been able to rescue and place cows with people who keep the cows on their property, allowing them to graze. These clients pay a monthly fee and in turn the cows keep the grass “mowed,” fertilize the land, and naturally till the soil. Narayan puts the money he earns back into rescuing more cows and paying for veterinarian visits and medicine. It feeds into his holistic farming and business method that he has coined as HOLI Natural Farming: High Output Low Input. “To me that is one of the most important things to teach people.” He was inspired by cows, but transferred the idea to his crops as well, “My wife had cows and I tried the milk…I realized, when I saw the process, that cows are outputting thousands and thousands of calories a day twice a day for years.” Narayan had tried planting tomatoes, “I output thousands of calories to grow a handful of tomatoes that equaled a couple hundred calories. I realized that the cow was the highest output for the lowest input.” He began planting crops that were naturally found in tropical climates and mirrored this idea, things like banana, taro, cassava, and papaya that grow and produce larger amounts of food using less resources and human input. Today he has created a HOLI ecosystem at his property. Narayan has discovered that these crops also thrive on the fertilizer that the cows provide when they are grazing. Certain crops like taro or papaya can even be grown alongside the cows since the plants are not appealing to them or the fruit is out of reach. This concept, social media platforms like Facebook and GoFundMe, and a number of generous donors, allowed Narayan to rescue over 71 cows from a defunct dairy farm onisland in January of this year. Altogether he was able to take in 10 full-grown cows and over 60 calves. “I didn’t know what I was getting into,” he laughs, “at one point I had all 70 cows following me across the property.” Prior to the dairy farm rescue, Narayan had rescued 20 cows that he tended regularly, so the added cows brought the overall count to 90 that he’s now caring for.

Rescued cows grazing at one of the pastures Krishna Cow Sanctuary rents cows to in East Hawaiÿi. photo courtesy of Narayan Higgins

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Associa Hawaii would like to take a moment to thank all the participants in our 2019 Trade Show, the largest in Kona. Just a reminder we are all set for August 20, 2020 for the next show: contact us now for early bird pricing. Remember Associa Hawaii is here to meet all your association’s management needs. Don’t pay for services you are not using, call us today! We also have commercial and rental services, we pride ourselves on our service to our customers and to our community. Mahalo nui iā ‘oukou pākahi a pau. Ua keu a ka maika’i ka hō’ike. Thank you to all for making this event a huge success.

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Community Partnerships Create an Emergency Response Center Via Social Media Alessandra Nicola Rupar-Weber was born and raised in Vienna, Austria and moved to Hawai‘i Island in 2005. She is the creator of Vegan Aloha, an organization that hosts events, movie screenings, plant-based cooking classes, and workshops educating people about the benefits of veganism. She also created the Facebook group Hawaii Lava Flow Animal Rescue Network. The group is completely volunteer run and has benefited from the help of local experts like Syndi Texeira. Syndi was born and raised on Hawai‘i Island and has worked as a crisis manager and paralegal for many years. She is a compassionate animal advocate and an administrator with the Hawaii Lava Flow Animal Rescue Network (HLFARN). In May 2018, when the lava started flowing in Puna and hundreds of animals were left behind, Alessandra lay awake at night overcome with concern. “The local animal organizations were not prepared or equipped to handle this major emergency,” she says, “So we created something similar to an emergency response center via social media, which was able to help about 700 pets and farm animals. Working all together, we did save many, putting them on foster farms all over the island—to sanctuaries and new homes.” She recalls that the situation was overwhelming, but was

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

amazed to find what a few dedicated and determined people were able to achieve, commenting, “People gave their all for weeks and some of us for months to help the animals in dire need with the help of local rescue organizations.” The rescue network is still very active more than a year later, reuniting lost pets with their humans, and finding homes for animals in need. Alessandra read an article in a local newspaper in late 2018 about a dairy in ‘O‘ōkala closing. Again, she was up at night wondering what would happen to the 2,600 cows. “I contacted Stephen Rouelle, the co-owner of Under the Bodhi Tree restaurant, and Syndi Texeira, who I got to know and deeply appreciate during our work together with the Hawaii Lava Flow Animal Rescue Network, and asked if they would want to save cows with me. We gathered again some of the core group members from the Hawaii Lava Flow Animal Rescue Network and went to work.” Together they formed Hawaii Cow Rescue. Syndi now plays a key role in the organization, “With this current mission, the Hawaii Cow Rescue, I serve as the negotiation and communication liaison between HCR by HLFARN, potential adopters, and the administration of the dairy.” She is tasked with creating an online database, logistics for transportation, locating viable homes, vetting adopters, and making follow-up visits.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

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By January 2019 they had mobilized a group of donors via social media, local media releases, and e-blasts. They were able to save 61 bottle-fed baby calves that were kept in crates at a barn, unable to walk or touch the ground. It took two weeks to find adoptive homes willing to bottle-feed the calves twice a day and give them the care and attention they needed. They delivered all 61 babies to their families in one day. “It was a crazy and intense day,” says Alessandra, “but we made it with the help of some awesome volunteers.” Since they were kept in crates the calves were stressed and some of them were very weak. “We had a few cases which needed to go to the vet but all of them are healthy now and thriving!” The organization also provided the first two weeks of milk replacer, calf starter feed, and initial vet care to all of the adopters. Syndi adds, “We have been able to rescue cows every month since then.” By her count, as of June 19, they have been able to rescue 317 cows, with more rescues planned. The Mission Moo-ving Forward For Narayan, his cows are his life. He wakes up every morning at 4am to sterilize his milk pails and hand milk a few of the lactating cows before driving off to survey the fields, where a majority of the cows are hosted. At the end of the day he comes home to milk the remaining cows, eat dinner, clean up and go to bed before doing it all again. “I’m big on social media. I’m always posting pictures and videos of the cows all the time. I constantly get messages from people saying, ‘Thank you so much for what you’re doing, I had a bad day and I see the cows playing and I feel better.’” He also believes that being able to help people locally and across the globe in an ethical and sustainable manner is part of his calling in life. Narayan is looking at ways to make local products a viable way of life, and the cows he takes care of play a major role in that. Alessandra and Syndi have experienced a lot together in the last year and they are planning to take the next step to become a nonprofit organization focused on rescue, rehoming, rehabilitation, and emergency services. “My dream is also to create a vegan sanctuary and retreat center where you can stay for relaxation, education, and healing together with rescued animals.” ■

For more information: facebook.com/KrishnaCowSanctuary/ facebook.com/groups/HLFARN/

Hawaii Cow Rescue volunteers from left: Laurie Ishii, Susan Regeimbal, Tracy Peters, Helena Lundblad, Eric Hens, Geronimo Lluberas, Alessandra Rupar-Weber, Deb Crawford, Randyl Rupar, Syndi Texeira, Hoku Kaawaloa-Eiflander, Laurie Lyons-Makaimoku, Ryan Okimoto. photo courtesy of Alessandra Rupar-Weber

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Above: Narayan and one of his rescue calves at the Krishna Cow Sanctuary. photo by Lara Hughes Below: One of the Hawaii Cow Rescue calves being bottle fed. photo courtesy of Alessandra Rupar-Weber

ʽĀhua A ‘Umi Heiau

King ‘Umi’s Legacy By Sara Stover

Across a high plateau between Maunaloa and Hualālai lie numerous ‘āhua (stone piles) that appear to be the remains of an ancient structure. The man who initiated the building of this heiau was more than the commoner he once seemed. King ‘Umi began his life as a humble farmer and was eventually responsible for the building of the ‘Āhua A ‘Umi Heiau, which represented the first unification of Hawai‘i Island.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

The Meeting Place On the east side of Hualālai is a plateau of cinder and lava where worn pyramids whisper of an age when Hawai‘i Island’s six districts once met in the shadows of two volcanoes. The site is comprised of a central heiau built of dry-laid rock, with eight ahua pyramids surrounding it. According to an 1840 survey by Charles Wilkes, the three tall pyramids symbolize the districts ‘Umi governed, and five additional pyramids were built by conquered districts. Wilkes was told of an ancient time when a king built a temple in this meeting place to commemorate the unification of Hawai‘i Island under his rule.

38 Stone piles surround Ähua A ÿUmi Heiau. photo courtesy of Kawika Singson

The Farm Boy Who Was Not Who He Seemed Before he was ali‘i, ‘Umi-a-Līloa was a typical teenager, until his mother revealed a secret. ‘Umi’s father, Ali‘i-ai-moku (District High Chief) Līloa, ruled Hawai‘i Island until 1495. King Līloa’s bloodline can be traced, unbroken, back to Hawaiian creation. During his reign, Līloa traveled throughout his kingdom, while his wife Pinea, a Maui chiefess, remained at home in Waipi‘o Valley to raise their children.

Mahalo Kings' Shops – Culture Story Sponsor While visiting the Hāmākua District, Līloa encountered a beautiful woman bathing in a river. The beauty’s name was Akahia‘kuleana (Akahi), a Kalahuimoku descendant who was married to a commoner. Līloa fell in love with Akahi, claiming his right to her as king, and Akahi accepted his claim. After they consummated their love, Akahi discovered she was pregnant with Līloa’s child. Līloa’s place, however, was in Waipi‘o, the center of Hawaiian government. Līloa instructed Akahi that if she were to give birth to a male, he should be named ‘Umi-a-Līloa (‘Umi) and should be sent to Waipi‘o upon reaching puberty. Līloa left Akahi with royal tokens to prove the child’s identity, which she promptly hid: a yellow lei niho palaoa (a wreath worn by ali‘i), a red waistcloth, and a whale-tooth ornament. Akahi did give birth to a son, raising him on their taro farm. ‘Umi discovered his true identity at age 16. His stepfather intended to punish him for misbehaving when his mother intervened and told her husband that he could not touch ‘Umi because the boy was his chief. Uncovering the tokens she had hidden, Akahi presented them to ‘Umi and explained that he was the son of King Līloa. Akahi then entrusted the tokens to ‘Umi and sent him to Waipi‘o Valley. Līloa’s royal palace was heavily guarded and intrusion was punishable by death. The bold ‘Umi jumped over the palace wall and now only the spears of the king’s guards came between him and his father.

‘Umi beat down the spears and marched into Līloa’s quarters, where he presented the tokens to his father. King Līloa immediately recognized the tokens of sovereignty, however it may have been ‘Umi’s fearlessness that truly proved to the king that this was indeed his son. The Custody of the Gods ‘Umi was highly favored by his father, and was soon established at court on equal footing with Līloa’s oldest son Hākau, who had been born to Pinea. Hākau was displeased with the discovery of a half-brother, and Līloa’s affections for the young man only perpetuated this displeasure. Līloa assured Hākau that he, and not ‘Umi, would become king after his father. Less than two years later Līloa died, leaving the title of king to Hākau, and the custody of the gods and temples to ‘Umi. Although Līloa had decreed that ‘Umi should be counselor to Hākau, the new king’s treatment of his half-brother was hostile. This hostility drove ‘Umi and his three companions, Koi, Piimaiwaa, and Omaukamau, out of Waipi‘o. They traveled to Waipunalei (in the Laupahoehoe forest region) where they

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Lei niho palaoa (neck ornament), 19th century. Carved sperm whale tooth, braided human hair, olona cordage. photo from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lei_niho_palaoa

could fish, hunt, and live peacefully. In time, ‘Umi gained respect among the people for being caring, and he amassed a following. Local ali‘i began to believe ‘Umi to be of the highest chiefly nature. During this period, the kāhuna (priests) were believed to have such power that no king could defy them. Hākau, however, did not believe in the kāhuna’s power, which insulted the priests. Among these were Nunu and Kakohe, the late Līloa’s most-trusted kāhuna. Hākau denied them care as they recovered from illness, which further offended them. The Listening Leaves The book The Legends and Myths of Hawaii: The Fables and Folklore of a Strange People details many signs that foretold ‘Umi’s destiny. One day, ‘Umi was walking alone among the trees in Waipunalei. Even trees are not always what they seem, though, for one of these was not a tree at all, but a man towering more than 11 feet tall. The giant’s name was Maukaleoleo, a man who was transformed by an encounter with a god who had offered him a fish to eat. This was no ordinary fish, for after eating it, Maukaleoleo grew from boy to giant overnight. “‘Umi, son of Līloa, here in the hills, among the listening leaves, let Maukaleoleo be the first to hail you mo‘i [king] of Hawai‘i,” Maukaleoleo declared, assuring ‘Umi that he would indeed become king. The following day, Kaoleioku, a high priest of the Manini

Through stones, King ÿUmi changed the course of Hawaiian history. photo courtesy of Kawika Singson

Unification Under King ‘Umi Without Hākau’s people to defend him, ‘Umi and more than 2,000 warriors found him vulnerable as they entered Waipi‘o. Carrying offerings wrapped in ti leaf, they easily got close to Hākau. Wrapped up in these leaves were rocks, which the warriors used to stone Hākau to death. Some manuscripts claim Kaoleioku slew Hākau as a sacrifice in the name of the gods. Although it remains uncertain at whose hands Hākau died, it is clear that by the time Hākau’s people returned to Waipi‘o, ‘Umi had taken charge of Līloa’s kingdom. Eventually, King ‘Umi united Hawai‘i Island, becoming the reigning ali‘i-ai-moku and the religious authority.

Relocation of the Center of Government King ‘Umi moved the center of Hawaiian government from Waipi‘o Valley to a plain, far inland. It has been suggested this point provided a military advantage, as ‘Umi could see adversaries approaching from any direction. Other claims suggest that King ‘Umi moved the center of government to the inland location for spiritual reasons, building the ‘Āhua A ‘Umi Heiau in an area that was believed to be the island’s piko, symbolizing the center of all energy or the navel where life begins. This may explain why ‘Umi gathered all his people here for a census, where each person in the kingdom deposited a stone on a pile. Representing the unified districts, the large ‘āhua surrounding the heiau reportedly measured roughly 23 feet in diameter and 13 feet high. From 1510 to 1525, King ‘Umi governed his lands justly. ‘Umi’s royal bloodline remained unbroken for several hundred years, making it the longest unbroken bloodline to ever rule Hawai‘i Island. The Stones That Still Speak By the 19th century, the site of ‘Āhua A ‘Umi Heiau was used for a livestock corral. In 1849, Judd Trail was created near the site, intended to be a direct route from Hilo to Kona; however, Maunaloa’s 1859 eruption crossed Judd Trail, and route completion was abandoned. Although there have been proposals to complete development of the trail system to include this area, it is predominantly unreachable at present and the release of the site’s location to the public is restricted.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

temple, sent a messenger to ‘Umi. Intrigued, he followed the messenger to Kaoleioku’s estate, nestled in a forest south of Waipunalei. The priests Nunu and Kakohe also made the journey. Kaoleioku’s estate soon transformed from a peaceful habitation among banana groves to the basecamp for a revolution. With the support of Kaoleioku and the priests, ‘Umi began to plan a long-overdue attack on Hākau. A secret supporter of the rebellion, the high priest Laeanui convinced Hākau that he had angered the gods and should send Waipi‘o’s people to the mountains for war feathers of royal colors, and ‘ōhi‘a logs for idols to pacify them. Hākau did so, and was alone in the valley with only Kakohe, Nunu, and a steward for company.

Stone piles surround Ähua A ÿUmi Heiau. photo courtesy of Kawika Singson Since 1974, King ‘Umi’s heiau has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Much of the heiau still remains intact today, owing partially to its inaccessibility. Those who have unintentionally found this sacred spot are struck by the significance of the stones, as each one represents the people that ‘Umi governed. Such ‘āhua are neither to be added to nor removed—they are regarded with the utmost respect. Through stones, King ‘Umi changed the course of Hawaiian history, and at the piko of our island lie the stones that keep his story alive. ■ Resources Hawaii and Its People, The Land of Rainbow and Palm by Alexander Stevenson Twombly Fornander’s Hawaiian Antiquities and Folklore by Abraham Fornander and Samuel H. Elbert The Legends and Myths of Hawaii: The Fables and Folklore of a Strange People by His Hawaiian Majesty David Kalakaua

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Historic American Landscapes Survey: Ahu A ‘Umi Heiau, on the plain east of Hualalai Volcano, Holualoa, Hawaii County, HI by the National Park Service

King ÿUmi moved the center of Hawaiian government from Waipiÿo Valley to a plain far inland. photo courtesy of Kawika Singson

H A K A L A U F O R E S T N AT I O N A L W I L D L I F E R E F U G E By Brittany P. Anderson akalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge

was created in 1985, making it the first national wildlife refuge to encompass rainforests since the program was established in 1908. The 33,000 acres running above Hakalau along Maunakea’s eastern side and 5,300 acres outside of Hōnaunau provide sanctuary to some of Hawai‘i Island’s most endangered bird species and the habitats they call home. With their unique isolated locations, public support, and reforestation programs, the wildlife refuge is a safe haven for Hawai‘i Island’s most critical flora and fauna. Two Roads Diverge “Before you get to the pine trees, make a right onto a dirt road,” a friend said, describing how to find the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge (HFNWR). The directions are primarily based on visual landmarks and sounds. Many of the native lowland habitats on Hawai‘i Island began to deteriorate with first human contact over a thousand years ago when the Polynesians arrived. Then, in the late 1700s,

cattle, goats, and pigs were introduced into the forest lands to graze, and as a result, numerous invasive species as well. Nonnative insects and plants coupled with unmonitored grazing had catastrophic consequences on native species. As the journey to the refuge begins, straw-colored pasturelands surround the dusty road, dotted with trees and fence posts. The stillness is interrupted by the cool wind coming off Maunakea, making tufts of tall grass quiver. Cars driving up to the observatory visitors’ center shine against the desaturated landscape. This truly is the road less traveled. A century of overgrazing—by the now-feral cattle, goats, and pigs—weakened critical native species of the area, allowing non-native species to take hold. When the US Fish and Wildlife Service purchased the land in 1985, and introduced grasses and shrubs had edged out indigenous plants, the birds no longer had their primary food sources. In addition to decreased food, diseases carried by invasive species dealt another blow to indigenous birds. Wild pig wallows filled with rainwater became breeding grounds for

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

43 Koa in Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge.

ÿIÿiwi released after being measured. mosquitos–a severe threat to native birds. Mosquitos carry avian disease that have taken native bird species in the Hakalau Forest NWR to the brink of extinction. As the dust settles, the landscape takes on more color. Large koa and ‘ōhi‘a take over the horizon. On the other side of the pastureland native forests have flourished but the understory where most birds eat and live was all but lost to alien species like gorse. Garnering the distinction of Wildlife Refuge helped to protect the area, and the establishment of Friends of Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge supported the refuge’s much-needed rehabilitation.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Making All the Difference Friends of Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge was established in the spring of 2006 to assist the US Fish and Wildlife Service’s efforts to protect and manage the refuge. Friends of HFNWR provides support through special projects that the Fish and Wildlife Service might not be able to do because of government restrictions, lack of staff, and/or funding issues. Miles of fencing were erected through federal funding to keep feral invasive species out of the refuge. These fences allow the native understory to thrive and here the native birds flourish. Managing these border fences is a full-time job and can prove costly to the ecosystem when broken. Without the barriers, wild cattle and pigs come in, laying waste to progress, which has happened previously. “It took a couple years to recover from the gap in funding when the fences couldn’t be maintained and feral animals got in,” notes J.B. Friday, president of Friends of HFNWR and extension forester, University of Hawai‘i. “There have been a couple times that there have been catastrophic events [damaging the fences] that the feds would have taken months to get the fences back up, so Friends of HFNWR helped get it done quickly,” says J.B. Friends of HFNWR developed the Hakalau Forest Refuge 44 Management Endowment to take over management from

Mixed group of native plants ready for planting. the US Fish and Wildlife Services in an emergency. J.B. adds, “During a government shutdown, Friends would be able to assist the refuge, bridging the gaps in funding or manpower.” Friends of Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge also encourages the Hawai‘i Island community to become active in reforestation and maintenance efforts. “We try to keep and grow local support of the refuge by involving the community,” J.B. notes. The organization holds volunteer trips to the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge three times a month. Volunteers assist with invasive species removal, planting native trees, or working in the native plant greenhouse. J.B. states that HFNWR hosts numerous endangered plant species, “One plant was declared officially extinct. Then they found another one [in the refuge] and now are propagating it.” With the help of countless volunteers, over half a million native trees and plant seedlings have been planted, reforesting

Sturdy gate at Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge.

over 2,700 acres of pasturelands. J.B. says of the progress made, “It’s the largest acreage of native forest restoration in the state.” Ensuring seamless resources in support of the refugeʻs

mission has made all the difference in returning it to the ‘āina (land). Under a canopy of magnificent koa and ‘ōhi‘a, native understory plants bring food for three major native bird species.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

ÿÖhiÿa along the road.

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2019 marks our 125 year anniversary, in which Hawai‘i Electric Light has had the privilege of serving our Hawai‘i Island Community. We began in 1894, with a water-driven dynamo in Hilo that was 100% renewable. And our goal is to come full circle and achieve that milestone again.

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Way Leads on to Way Most of the US wildlife refuges are easily accessible—there are 25 such sanctuaries just off the east coast’s Interstate 95, where the public enjoys maintained trails and facilities. But Hakalau and its Kona-side counterpart are the epitome of remote. To simply drive past the Hakalau Forest NWR one must travel carefully on a dusty back road. “It would be great if we could offer more staff and have rangers and managed trails for visitors,” J.B. remarks. To gain inside access to the refuge, one must volunteer or book a tour through only a handful of eco-tour companies that are permitted within the refuge. As for the Kona forest unit, there isn’t even a road to access it. Careful consideration for threatened native bird species guided the US Fish and Wildlife Service to pick the isolated 33,000 acres above Hakalau. Studies leading up to the land purchase found an overlapping range for the Hawai‘i creeper (Oreomystis mana), ‘akiapōlā’au (Hemignathus lumunroi), and the Hawai‘i ‘ākepa, (Loxops ococcineus). Instead of finding separate acreage for each bird species, the Hakalau Forest NWR was able to save three bird species in one land purchase. The Hawai‘i creeper was listed as endangered in 1975 and became protected under the State of Hawai‘i endangered species law in 1982. The refuge is the only location where the Hawai‘i creeper has increased populations. Owing a good portion of the success of the refuge is the habitat restoration efforts for the understory where Hawai‘i forest birds eat and nest. The Hawai‘i creeper feeds off of insects living in bark of the ‘ōhi‘a and koa tree—in protecting and planting these species, the birds in turn prosper. Just As Fair The US Fish and Wildlife Services purchased the 5,300 acres of the Kona Forest Unit of the Hakalau Forest NWR in 1997. Sitting between 2,000 and 6,000 feet on the slopes of Maunaloa, the goal of adding this native forest parcel is to preserve, maintain, and manage the area for threatened or

Photos courtesy of J.B. Friday friendsofhakalauforest.org fws.gov/refuge/Hakalau_Forest/

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

endangered species. The Kona Forest Unit was once home to the Hawaiian crow, ‘alalā (Corvus hawaiiensis). The ‘alalā were only found in the wild on the west side of Hawai‘i Island, their numbers dropping dramatically each year from 1993 on. Finally, in 2002 the last wild pair of ‘alalā disappeared from sight. There is hope that reintroduced ‘alalā will one day repopulate the Kona Forest Unit to restore the natural balance of the woods. [See story in Ke Ola Magazine, January/February 2019.] In addition to rebuilding the ‘alalā habitat, the Kona Forest Unit protects other endangered species like the ‘io (Hawaiian hawk), and ‘ōpe‘ape‘a (Hawaiian hoary bat), plus several threatened or endangered plant species. While native bird populations steadily decline across Hawai‘i Island, the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge has seen populations increase and remain stable. Indigenous plants rely heavily on birds to disperse their seeds, so the birds and plants help each other to reproduce, strengthening the ecosystem together. Collectively, the HFNWR and the Kona Forest Unit are home to more than 14 native bird species (nine of which are endangered), one endangered bat, and more than 20 rare and endangered plant species. Restoring native habitat to pre-human contact days through feral animal control, invasive plant removal, and replanting indigenous plant species is miraculously our solution—returning the land back to the land. Torn with pressing on towards HFNWR, being another human presence in an area needing to heal from human contact, or experience the hidden beauty that is Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, the truck turns around with a sigh. Today, the Hawai‘i creeper will not see another human. As Robert Frost once wrote, “I took the road not taken and that has made all the difference.” ■

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Mahalo Clark Realty – Home/Building Story Sponsor

The Meaningful Construction of

Daifukuji Soto Mission By Fern Gavelek

he burgundy-colored building with white trim on Highway 11 at the entrance to Honalo (South Kona) is the landmark Daifukuji Soto Mission. The temple sits a bit off the road on the mauka (mountain) side, adjacent to Teshima’s Restaurant. Its stately presence is apparent at first glance, even though a rock wall somewhat hides the west-facing temple. The single-story, wood frame temple is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and recognized as a Kona Heritage Building by the nonprofit Pulama Ia Kona. Built in a typical Japanese Buddhist temple style for early 20th century Hawai‘i, Historic Hawai‘i Foundation reports “it is distinguished by its metal, irimoya (hip-gable) roof, outset front entry, and being elevated from the ground on posts.”

The construction of Daifukuji Soto Mission was a major enterprise in 1920—an era when Japanese immigrants were struggling to get a foothold in a foreign land. The congregation (sangha), had been attending services in a small, simple building just 200 yards north of the current site. Serving as Kona’s first Soto Zen temple, the humble structure was built in 1915 under the direction of Daifukuji’s founding minister, Rev. Kaiseki Kodama from Japan. He had walked around the island twice, carrying a black umbrella, to collect donations to build the first temple—which no longer stands. The current temple was designed by issei (Japanese immigrant) Yoshisuke Sasaki, whose name appears on the munafuda (a wooden plank inscribed with the names of those

Mission photo from 1921, originally found in the Kona Historical Society Archives.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

View of the sprawling mission complex, including part of the Social Hall.

framing and finishing. Three roof forms are employed at the temple’s front and on the ridge of each is an ornamented ridge piece called an o-mune with carved decorated wood pieces on both ends. The roof also boasts a gentle curve. The Daifukuji was built with traditional temple space for gejin (worship) and naijin (an altar). On May 27, 1921, the main hall (hondo) of the temple was dedicated with a Buddha image enshrined. Current mission minister and Kona native Rev. Mary Beth Jiko Oshima-Nakade says the dedication was a grand ceremony when mochi was tossed from a platform high up on the temple roof to sangha on the ground. “Daifukuji means Temple of Great Happiness,” she shares. Through the years, as the sangha grew, a series of assigned ministers added their input to provide needed space to house activities. In 1937 Kannon Hall was erected to serve as a room dedicated to Kannon, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. Today, it is used as a meditation room, space for keiki instruction, and small services such as baby blessings. “During WWII, the US military occupied the mission after the Rev. Jiko uses the old light dial knob.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

who participated in the temple’s construction). Munafudas are traditionally placed as a tangible historical record between the roof and the ceiling of buildings to remain for the life of the structure. While Yoshisuke had learned the trade in Japan, he had no formal training in temple architecture. He came to Hawai‘i in 1907 and was interested in Western design. He incorporated Western style elements—including Hawai‘i’s plantation architecture—into the Daifukuji Soto Temple. Yoshisuke used Western-style arched windows in the design, a main element in the Japan Monopoly Corporation office he had designed in Oshima town, Yamaguchi prefecture. While Yoshisuke built some houses and boats, he didn’t design any other Hawai‘i temples; however, he became the proprietor of the Keauhou Store in 1919, a general store that closed in 2018. Teruyoshi Ikenouchi served as the project’s head carpenter, leading a team of others: Hatsutaro Takashige, Katsugi Taniyama, Kinshiro Yamamoto, Daikichi Nagasawa, Tokutaro Sakata, Ichitaro Nakaku, and Shoichi Ikeda. Teruyoshi, who hailed from Hiroshima, had built the Laupāhoehoe Jodo Temple in 1908. According to the mission’s 1999 “Historic Structures Report,” (HSR) community involvement in temple construction was “great.” Those listed on the munafuda as members of the temple’s Architect Board were either business colleagues or friends who all lived near the temple site. They were merchants, tofu makers, and coffee pickers who “relied on each other to build up a substantial temple that was the community center of the area.” Both plantation style and the traditional Japanese Kiwari proportioning system were used as the design and building guidelines for the temple. The Kiwari relies on the post span and the post diameter as the basic units to establish rafter spacing; bracketing, beam, and roof sizes; and structure height. According to the HSR, the temple was built using the Kiwari “loosely to determine overall form.” It has single-wall construction. The roof is considered the main architectural feature of the temple building with a predominant hip style. Temple formality can be found in the decorative elements of the roof rafters and eaves. The wooden joinery used to craft the ceiling of the entryway (kohai) shows off the craft of Japanese timber

minister, Rev. Nakayama, was sent off to an internment camp,” notes Rev. Jiko. “Some of the hall’s original glass windows are still cloudy from being painted during blackouts.” A connecting corridor between the main and Kannon halls was widened and now serves as the mission library. The library’s six windows operate like a sliding glass door on tracks; however, they have wood bottoms and move via a pulley system. These windows and those in both halls, plus the entrywall doors, are all originals. In the main hall, there’s an old-time light dial (instead of a switch) that’s used to illuminate the library. “We keep it as it’s part of our history,” smiles Rev. Jiko. The main hall, which has an interior ceiling made of canec panels, was enlarged in 1964. Canec is a fiberboard made from sugar bagasse by Hiloʻs former business Hawaiian Cellulose; the company closed in the 1980s. The hall’s newer section houses the temple’s inner sanctuary with the central statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. The sanctuary is framed by large koa pillars. “I was told the koa was brought down on sleds from Hualālai,” shares Rev. Jiko. According to “A Tour of Daifukuji Soto Mission,” one front pillar represents Great Wisdom, maha prajna; the other is Great Compassion, maha karuna. It reads, “Each requires the other—wisdom without compassion is cold; compassion without wisdom is ineffective.” Other additions to the mission include the registry choba (office) and the minister’s home. The gift shop is newly housed in the 1950s basement. Down from the front main temple stairs is the Jizo Shrine. Built in 1961, it contains a statue

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

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of the Bodhisattva Jizo, protector of travelers, babies, and children. Similar to the main temple, the shrine’s curlicue roof decorations represent dharma clouds and are “symbolic of the ever-available insight that can rain down at any time.” In a separate building facing north is the Social Hall, with a big kitchen and stage for events, and adjacent Cultural Center, which serves as the headquarters of the taiko, tai chi, and yoga groups. A driveway between the Social Hall and minister’s residence leads up to the columbarium, where ashes of the deceased are stored. The driveway leads further up through the temple’s cemetery, ending at the former Kona Community Crematorium, which opened in 1964 and is no longer in use.

Koa was brought down Hualälai on sleds for the pillars framing the main hall’s sanctuary.

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The mission complex survived a 7.1 earthquake in 1947 and a 6.4 tremblor in 2006. Rev. Jiko said the temple posts were originally on lava rock but have been reinforced to code to ensure the building is structurally sound. In 2014, the mission celebrated its founding with a centennial celebration. To permanently remember past ministers and milestones, historic photos are displayed in the hondo and Social Hall. And while there have been temple additions and renovations over the years, Rev. Jiko says much has remained the same. “We have people come by who have moved away, and they are relieved the temple is the same as they remember it,” details Rev. Jiko. “I grew up coming here as a child with my parents and it feels like home to me.”

Photos by Fern Gavelek For more information: daifukuji.org

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New Home for Temple Gift Shop Offering ojuzu beads, books, hand-painted scrolls, and a wide range of Asian cultural items and gifts, the temple’s gift shop is newly located in the basement. The area previously served as the location for Japanese language classes and Boy Scout meetings. At the helm is manager and temple librarian Clear Englebert and his assistant, Barbara Bosz. “What we tried to do with the shop is decorate it to look like an old Japanese farm house,” explains Clear. “Décor includes an old shoji door and Japanese lamps. Walls are white plaster accented with dark brown posts. Clear says the shop primarily offers dharma-related (Buddhist teaching) items. For example, colorful ojuzu, a top seller, are Buddhist prayer beads used during meditation and scripture recitation. The beads can also be employed as an aid for mindfulness—one bead, one breath, to focus the mind in the present moment. In addition to Buddhist scriptures, there are a variety of books: self-help, Japanese gardening, cookbooks, children’s stories, and coloring books. Patrons can browse through books while sitting on an old tatami mat bench, a smaller version of the raised platform typically used by Buddhist monks for meditation. Other finds include a selection of kimono, jewelry, fans, and incense. Hours are 10am–1pm Thursday and Fridays, and during monthly services and events. ■

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Mälama Mokupuni: Caring for Our Island Environment

Helping the Hawaiian Hawksbill Sea Turtle USING PHOTO-ID

By Cheryl King

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Have you ever seen a Hawaiian hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), known as honu‘ea or ‘ea? If so, you’re lucky, since they are a rare sight compared to the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), or honu. Hawaiian hawksbills are genetically distinct from other regions, so are truly “local.” Unfortunately, they are one of the most endangered populations in the world. Hawksbills don’t bask like green sea turtles, so you will only see them while snorkeling or diving, or if they are nesting or hatching. Hawksbills are believed to nest exclusively on the main Hawaiian Islands—they are seldom sighted in the northwestern Hawaiian Islands (Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument). On average, only 20 females nest per year, statewide. The endangered honu‘ea inhabits many of the same nearshore habitats and sometimes eats certain limu (algae)

In two separate incidences, these two juvenile hawksbills named Nike and Dylana died when they became entangled in near-shore fishing gear.

Little O surfacing to breathe: note the hawk-like beak, two claws per flipper and overlapping scutes on the carapace (shell). species, as does the threatened honu, but there are thousands of greens compared to hawksbills. Historical information indicates that hawksbills have never been abundant in Hawai‘i; the answer to why seems to be as mysterious as they are. One vital way to protect the honu‘ea is to protect nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings. To find nests, conservationists look for distinctive tracks, resembling large tire tracks, left on the beach after a nesting female returns to the ocean. Hawksbill tracks differ from greens because they crawl differently. Hawksbills have an alternating gait, while the larger greens pull themselves across the sand using both front flippers at once, and push with their rear flippers, leaving more symmetrical marks in the sand. The paths of tiny hatchlings are the width of bicycle tracks and are often confused with crab tracks radiating across sand dunes. But if over 100 hatchlings emerge from their nest at once, the scene is unmistakable! Turtle tracks can be difficult to detect due to vegetation, high surf, high tides, winds, precipitation, and foot traffic. Plus, there simply aren’t enough trained people to search every beach on all of the islands every morning during nesting season (typically May–December). Since sea turtles only spend a small fraction of their lives nesting, studying them in their sea environment is crucial to understanding the population and the threats that impact their survival—such as entanglement with fishing gear, marine debris, habitat degradation, vessel strikes, harassment, disease, predation, and poaching. It’s a vast ocean, so how do we go about finding such a rare species effectively? Every Scale Tells a Tale: Photo-ID The many SCUBA divers and snorkelers who document their experiences with cameras fit right into this project’s captivating citizen science opportunity: the honu‘ea can be tracked long-term by analyzing their head and flipper scale patterns. This non-invasive method, which can also be applied to honu (and other animals using different species-specific physical characteristics), is called photo-ID. The Hawaiian Hawksbill Conservation online photo-ID catalog showcases 186 individual hawksbills: a collation of approximately 1,400 sightings from more than 300 photographers since 1998. There are more that have not been

identified, since there are many remote habitats around the islands, and spreading the word about this project is ongoing. So far, 34 individuals have been identified around Hawai‘i Island. The majority have only been reported once, with the longest duration over the years being #HI2, or “Scaley.” Scaley was first reported in 2003, then several more times until 2015. It’s 2019…where is Scaley now? Maybe you’ll be the next to spot this hawksbill! The Hawaiian Hawksbill Conservation team is based on Maui, which is probably why that’s where the most individuals have been documented: 82. Interestingly, three of the hawksbills that “grew up” around Maui were tagged when they were old enough to make the journey to nest on Hawai‘i Island—Ake, Pohue, and Misty. Seeing their new flipper tags upon their return to Maui was exciting, and the team looks forward to piecing together more neighbor island connections. If you submit a photograph or video (old or new) of a novel hawksbill to the collection, you get to choose a name for it. It

will also receive a unique identification number, and with your permission will be added to the respective island’s webpage (no specific locations are named). Every sighting is significant, and the conservation team appreciates every photographer! Please remember to keep a respectful distance; they are a Federally and State protected species, so any photography efforts must not disturb or alter their natural behavior. To get involved in submitting sightings, and help spread the word: hihawksbills.org To find volunteer opportunities protecting nesting turtles on Hawai‘i Island: nps.gov/havo/learn/nature/turtles.htm Photos by Cheryl King Cheryl King is the founder of Hawaiian Hawksbill Conservation and guest writer for Sustainable Pacific Program, Lynker LLC/ NOAA Affiliate, Hawai‘i Island.

Hope is one of the hawksbills that gives us hope for the survival of the species. Learn all about her on HIhawksbills.org!

Barnacle Billie uses her front flippers to gain access to her favorite algae.

An endemic saddle wrasse (Thalassoma duperrey) gets the scraps from Hope’s meal.

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Ho'omau Käkou By Rosa Say

This column for Ke Ola Magazine’s Business Feature section began with the January/February Hawai‘i Island issue of 2013. We have cycled twice through the 19 Values of Aloha presented in Managing with Aloha, Bringing Hawaii’s Universal Values to the Art of Business, one value per issue. Now, we embark on Series 3. The values of our Hawai‘i are timeless beliefs and convictions; they are wise, relevant and exceptionally useful to us, and I am very thankful to the ‘ohana of Ke Ola Magazine for allowing me to share them with you. We who live and work in Hawai‘i are her stewards, a privilege we in business do not take for granted, and a responsibility we must not take lightly. Our privilege and responsibility aren’t burdens, they are gifts which motivate and inspire us, and make our businesses flourish with creativity and lifelong learning adaptations. In Series 1, we concentrated our conversations on “Why values?” and “Why we seek to ‘manage with Aloha.’” Our values drive our behavior: well-chosen values will function as the drivers of healthy workplace cultures and prosperous business missions. To manage with Aloha is to manage and lead our workplaces and businesses with the signature value of Hawai‘i, as we simultaneously honor our sense of place. That value is Aloha, and we express it with the Aloha Spirit which resides in each one of us innately. In Series 2, we named our Managing with Aloha practice of value alignment our “Aloha Intentions.” Value alignment is the diligent practice of assuring that we are true to our values—we make sure that the actions we take (i.e., our behaviors) match the values we claim to be the primary drivers of our business missions and all of our future-forward decisions: “Your mission is what you do best every day. Your vision is what the future looks like because you do your mission so exceedingly well.” With each value presented to you in Series 2, I encouraged you to verb your practice of value alignment in five expressions of meaningful and worthwhile work: living, working, speaking, managing, and leading—all with Aloha, and as your “Aloha Intentions.”

Bringing Hawai‘i’s Universal Values to the Art of Business First in Series Three on Managing with Aloha

BUSINESS Managing with aloha These verbs are personal, and aligning them with the value coaching of Managing with Aloha is designed to make the personal professionally noteworthy as well: you work on becoming an Alaka‘i Manager who conducts themselves with Ho‘ohanohano distinction.

Next issue: We launch Ke Ola Series 3 with the value of Aloha.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

In Series 3 we Ho‘omau Kākou. As we have learned: —To Ho‘omau is to continue with the goal of renewal: it is our value of perseverance, wherein renewal fortifies our strengths despite any adversity. —Kākou is to work together in ways which make us even stronger: it is our value of inclusivity where we share unconditionally, and with the Language of We, knowing life and business are not solo propositions! We will experience more of the good coaching inherent in the 19 Values of Aloha, talking about specific value alignment practices you can weave into being Alaka‘i—being the best manager and leader you can be by merit of your Aloha Spirit. Some of these practices came to be in my own history as a manager and leader, and others have been shared with me as your best practices, thanks to my Managing with Aloha workplace coaching practice. Series 3 will focus on our work’s detail, specific to management. All business owners and leaders must be savvy managers—and compassionate bosses—first and foremost. We work on work, fully understanding how important that is: the work we devote our time and attention to will spill over into every other aspect of our lives. It’s personal, and it’s pervasive, so we work on making it good. To make it ‘good,’ we create it, and we practice it with Aloha. As we do so, we honor each other as human beings born of Aloha and meant to share its spirit. I hope you continue to join me. I’ve mapped out our value alignment in Series 3, however, as all good managers know, future plans are always works in progress— we’re humble enough to know they can always be enhanced and improved. Therefore, if you feel you have a best practice which specifically aligns your business with one of our 19 Values of Aloha, please contact me via rosa.say@managingwithaloha.com. I would love to hear more about it, and showcase your good work in a future column.

Contact writer Rosa Say at RosaSay.com or ManagingWithAloha.com

Seeds of a New By Stefan Verbano

Editor’s Note: Our local agriculture feature story was originally planned to cover the production of Hawai‘i’s legal cannabis crop. However, due to circumstances beyond our control, we were unable to pursue it. Instead, here is an overview and history of cannabis on the island. We will publish another story on other uses of cannabis in a future issue.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

uring a weekend last June, cannabis connoisseurs of every stripe met at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium in Hilo to celebrate the many uses of this enduring plant. At the Hawai‘i Cannabis Awareness Conference, vendors displayed everything hemp: weed-leaf-print apparel, homemade cannabis oil presses, sample packets of nutritious shelled hemp seeds, CBD oil, shampoo, soaps, chocolates, snacks, even dog treats. It was a small yet deliberate group of forward-thinking entrepreneurs nonplussed by the continued federal classification of cannabis as a dangerous drug. There was dancing in the aisles between panel discussions, and a palpable excitement about what kinds of opportunities this new industry could bring its producers. Their efforts were at last becoming legitimate businesses. “Come meet your friends and future business partners,” the conference literature touted. Among the conference-goers was Mike Ruggles. Mike’s medical cannabis co-op known as the Alternative Pain Management Pu‘uhonua’s Collective in Fern Acres was raided in September 2015. The 150-member collective served as a means for patients and members to offload excess cannabis by

Vendors at the Hawaiÿi Cannabis Awareness Conference, held inside Hilo’s Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium in mid-June, offer everything from CBD cookies and snacks to cosmetics, chocolates, and oils–even dog treats! photo by Stefan Verbano

Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium in Hilo was alive over weekend this past June with the colors, Hawaiÿi Island’s burgeoning hemp industry. photo by Stefan Verbano transferring it to other members. This allowed them to comply with the State’s quantity restrictions while still maintaining an uninterrupted supply of safe, legal, potent medicine.

The Past Operation Green Harvest began on Hawai‘i Island as an undercover federal, state, and local narcotics operation in the late 70s, with heavily armed officers conducting full-fledged, military-style smash and grab assault runs on illegal cannabis operations using police and National Guard helicopters. They would either blast contraband weed patches with herbicide from helicopter-mounted sprayers, or officers would physically uproot the plants and attach them to the helicopter in bundles, to be flown to the nearest accessible road and offloaded onto flatbeds trucks, then driven to secret landfills and dumped. Billions of dollars worth of cannabis rotted. At Green Harvest’s apex in 1987, it confiscated 1.9 million plants. An industry that once surpassed the value of sugar, pineapples, and tourism combined—estimated to be worth between $1 billion and $10 billion—withered up like the plants it was built upon. The price of street cannabis soared, creating a supply vacuum that gave rise to cheaper, more damaging, and much

Industry

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A History of Cannabis on Hawai‘i Island “The citizens of the County of Hawai‘i have passed an initiative to make Cannabis offenses the Lowest Law Enforcement Priority, where the Cannabis is intended for adult personal use, and request that the federal and state branches of government remove criminal penalties for the cultivation, possession and use of Cannabis for adult personal use; the citizens also request that Cannabis policies here within the County of Hawai‘i be dealt with from our local law enforcement only,” the ordinance reads. The new law ended up being thrown out by the courts, and the helicopters continued, though now only a slight shadow of their former military might. “We did not expect the initiative to hold up in court, but it spoke strongly of the will of the people,” says Andrea Tischler, the former Hawai‘i Island chair of Americans For Safe Access, a 100,000-member Washington, DC-based organization working Vendors at the Hawaiÿi Cannabis Awareness Conference, held inside Hilo’s Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium in mid-June, display their wares and help answer customer questions about CBD and other hemp products. photo by Stefan Verbano

sights, sounds, and smells of the 2019 Hawaiÿi Cannabis Awareness Conference, celebrating

more addictive hard drugs like crystal methamphetamine (known locally as “ice” or “batu”), black-tar heroin, and cocaine. A popular bumper sticker in the archipelago at the time read: “Thanks To ‘Green Harvest,’ Our Island’s On ‘Ice’.” KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Green Tide Begins to Turn For three decades, Green Harvest helicopters roamed Hawai‘i Island, and for three decades Hawai‘i taxpayers footed the bill. Then community members finally decided to fight back. In 2008, Hawai‘i County passed the “Lowest Law Enforcement Priority of Cannabis Ordinance” by the slimmest of margins—53%. With the ordinance enacted, the island joined other progressive, civil rights-minded jurisdictions like Seattle (2003), Oakland (2004), Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, San Francisco, Santa Monica (2006), and Denver (2007), all of which had passed similar measures in previous years either through voter initiatives or elected officials’ actions. To follow these new rules, local police would have to use their resources combating violent crime and hard drugs first before spending any money on cannabis enforcement. The language of Hawai‘i Island’s own ordinance dealt a deathblow to Green Harvest in no ambiguous terms, asking federal and state enforcement agencies to simply stop.

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to ensure safe and legal access to cannabis for medical and research purposes. Andrea continues, “The initiative ultimately made it easier and safer for Hawai‘i medical cannabis patients to obtain medicine.” This was eight years after Hawai‘iʻs medical cannabis program was implemented in 2000, allowing the State Department of Health (DOH) to create a registry program for eligible patients whose doctors approved cannabis use as an appropriate treatment for their illnesses. With a DOH Registration Card, medical cannabis patients in Hawai‘i now had a certain degree of legal protection, at least at the local level. Currently, there are approximately 25,000 medical cannabis patients in the state, with about 7,000 of those residing on Hawai‘i Island. Hawai‘i was the fifth state in the US to legalize medical cannabis after California (1996), Oregon, Alaska, Washington (1998), and Maine (1999), concurrently with Nevada and Colorado. In the 20 years since, every one of those states has legalized recreational cannabis except Hawai‘i. The island chain, it seems, lost much of its reform momentum a decade into the new millennium. Considering it was the first state in the US to legalize medical cannabis through a state legislature, today Hawai‘i ranks somewhere in the realm of Oklahoma in terms of pot-friendly “on the books” laws. “Hawai‘i's leaders demonstrated great wisdom and foresight 20 years ago,” Andrea says, “to have recognized the benefits and efficacious medical uses of cannabis, but they lost their vision and courage to advance from there.” Still A Ways To Go Andrea, after nearly a half-century of activism pushing for medical and personal cannabis use reform, says the islands are

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

In addition to edibles, Cannabis Conference vendors sold ganja gear, too. Clothes, hats, weed-leaf patterns, were all on display. photo by Stefan Verbano

still not there yet. “We've got a ways to go,” she says. ”The legislature is slow to change antiquated cannabis and drug policy laws, while the State Department of Health creates a bureaucratic maze of unnecessary and burdensome rules.” Slow indeed. After medical use became legal, it took another 15 years for the State to pass laws allowing for medical dispensaries. More than three years after that, the first stores actually physically opened. In the nearly two decades in between, Hawai‘i cannabis patients could legally possess and consume their medicine; however, unless they grew it themselves or had a caregiver do so, every means of attaining it was still illegal. Even now, in 2019, with dispensaries open for business on main drags of larger Hawaiian towns, many patients are hardly any better off. “They should have access to cannabis, which they do at dispensaries, but most people can’t afford it; the price of this medicine for people with low and fixed incomes is too high. They can’t afford the dispensary prices, so they end up going to the local pot grower,” Andrea says. “The dispensary system was set up to replace the black market. But most people can’t afford it, so theyʻre going to continue to buy it on the black market.” Of the eight cannabis dispensary licenses statewide, Hawai‘i Island has two, held by the businesses Hawaiian Ethos and Big Island Grown, the latter being the only one currently with open storefronts in Hilo and Waimea, with another soon to open in Kona. Prices for dried buds at the dispensaries can be more than $400 an ounce. By comparison, in Oregon where recreational cannabis is legal, ounces can go for a tenth of that. The high prices aren’t necessarily a result of greed or monopolies, tapestries, sun catchers, and other accessories, adorned with tie-dye, Rasta colors, and

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

drop dramatically in a competitive market. The monopoly model must be broken.” With the benefits of this natural medicine so obvious—and the uses of cannabis products including hemp so numerous— it's difficult to understand why it has taken so long for Hawai‘i to achieve what other states have already accomplished. However, there is still hope for the islands. ■

For more information: hawaiicannabis.org

“The Women of Cannabis 2019” industry discussion panel at the Hawaiÿi Cannabis Awareness Conference featured a group of all-female cannabis experts who explored traditional uses of the plant from around the world, and discussed how women are becoming a driving force in this newly forming industry. photo by Stefan Verbano

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

although such accusations have been thrown around; rather, the startup costs of applying for a dispensary license, growing the plants in line with strict state regulations, paying for inhouse quality and safety testing, and investing in brick-andmortar retail space all inflate the price patients end up paying. “If the State's original goal with dispensary legislation in 2015 was—in the DOH's own words—to ‘make medicinal products readily available for registered patients,’ then it has failed,” Andrea says. “As long as there are so few licensed outlets, it is always going to be unaffordable for most. Co-ops, collectives, and more retail businesses need to be established in the mix so that no patient is left out. Medicine prices will

Start Fishing! The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament Celebrates 60 Years By Karen Rose

On August 21, 1959,

statehood was granted to the territory of Hawaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;i, making it the 50th state in the union. Two days later, the first Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament (HIBT) was introduced to Kona. This year marked the 60th anniversary of HIBT, as anglers from around the world descended upon Kailua-Kona to continue the tradition of big marlin fishing. The 2019 Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament ran July 27â&#x20AC;&#x201C;August 4. Peter Fithian, founder of the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament, moved to Kona in 1955 after serving as the general manager at the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. While managing the Kona Inn, he was inspired to create the HIBT tournament after noting the calm, near-shore deep water. Four years later plans started coming together.

HIBT Founder, Peter Fithian

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

“It was in 1959, just days after the territory of Hawai‘i became the 50th state, that a small group of local anglers assembled in my office at the Kona Inn to discuss launching a world-class sport fishing tournament,” said Peter. “Here we are, 60 years later, celebrating the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament’s Diamond Anniversary. Each year, the thrill of catching big marlin in these famous waters attracts great anglers to this tournament from around the world, and every year I’m so honored to welcome them to Kona, Hawai‘i.” This year’s diamond anniversary celebration drew 41 teams, enthusiastically gathered from around the globe—including Japan, Costa Rica, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, South Africa, Lizard Island, Palau, France, and the US—and some of the finest boats, captains, and crews in Kona as well. Welcoming is what Peter does best, as captains and crew in Kona gather to compete and maintain their commitment to sustainability and conservation. HIBT also bestows international recognition on fish conservation through their tag and release protocol, to encourage participants to uphold HIBTʻs commitment to sustainability. HIBT is unique to Kona, as fishing here is a different experience from other locations around the world. Ocean depths plummet rapidly near the Kona coast, so there’s no need to go far offshore for great deep-water fishing. In the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the volcanic islands create natural feeding grounds for pelagic (open sea) species, especially blue marlin. Pacific blue marlins are plentiful in Kona, especially during the summer months when the tournament takes place. When Peter and other anglers gathered 60 years ago, they were aware of Kona's special fishing environment. Henry Chee,

Clinton Hicks from Moreton Bay Game Fish Club Australia placed second in the 2018 HIBT.

Captain Martin Firestein and Mitchell Firestein, captured the coveted 2019 Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament Governor’s Trophy.

Conservation is Key Along with the fishing tales, HIBT is also known for its conservation efforts. Kona boasts some of the best

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

the legendary Kona fisherman and International Gamefish Association (IGFA) Hall of Fame recipient, was a part of this group. Not long after that meeting, the International Billfish Tournament was born. Today, Peter is humbled by the support and enthusiasm of the Kona community, sharing, “To the talented and hardworking captains and crews of Kona’s fishing fleet who work with us to showcase Kona’s fishing, thank you for being an integral part of the success of this tournament.” In 2017, Peter Fithian was inducted into the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame. Through his experience and perseverance, Peter created a prestigious fishing tournament, drawing anglers from around the world who recognize Kona, Hawai‘i as one of the best places in the world to fish for Pacific blue marlin. This is Peter Fithian’s legacy. “For 60 years, the Kona community has welcomed HIBT with love and aloha,” said Peter. “We are appreciative of the community’s support throughout the tournament’s history and we always look forward to bringing the best fisherman in the world to experience the thrill of catching big marlin in Kona’s famous waters. As the anglers travel home, each has a fishing tale that will long be remembered.”

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The top-notch captain and crews who work the HIBT do not go unnoticed by its founder, Peter Fithian, who heaps praise upon these experts in their field. “We certainly could not put on a tournament at this level alone,” he said. “To Kona’s finest fishing fleet, captains and crews, I salute you for the hard work and dedication that you continually put forth as we work together to support the Kona coast as a world-class big game fishing destination.”

HIBT 1964 boat roundup. A roundup happens three times a day, when radio control reaches out to each team and asks for location, strikes, hookups, and information.

Final HIBT 60th Standings TEAM STANDINGS Laguna Niguel Billfish Club-Firestein, USA Olympian Dream Fishing Club, Japan Denarau Game & Sportsfishing Club-Team Flying Fijians Kona Gamefish Club-Blue Fin, Japan Ohana Marlin Club, Japan Houston Big Game Fishing Club-Team Filo Pamela Basco Pajaro Valley Gamefish Club-Team 1, USA Hawke’s Bay Game Fishing Club-The Odd Fellows, NZ Lizard Island Game Fishing Club, Australia

POINTS* 1600 1450 1450 1400 1250 1250 1250 1200 1200

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CAPTAIN Kevin Hibbard Kevin Nakamaru Boyd DeCoito Chuck Wigzell Chris Donato Jean Nogues Jeff Fay Kai Hoover Jim Wigzell

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

fishing grounds, not only in Hawai‘i, but around the world. Tournament officials work hand-in-hand with the scientific community to collect data important for fish migration and spawning pattern studies. In 1986, HIBT implemented a tag and release point system. More recently, in an attempt to preserve the big game species for future generations, teams do not receive points for boated Pacific blue marlin less than 300 pounds. However, teams can receive points for these billfish if they are tagged and released. In this type of competition, the winning team may be awarded a victory because one tag-and-release could determine the final score. Lifelong resident of Hawai‘i, Captain Rick Gaffney is actively involved in the HIBT. Rick is proud of the tournament’s history and legacy. “Its long, proud, and fascinating history is what makes the tournament so special,” said Rick. “In 60 years, the HIBT has been fished by Hollywood celebrities, genuine royalty, leaders of industry from across the planet, amateur anglers from a whole host of countries and most of the world’s great fishing destinations. Kona is different from other fishing destinations in its ability to deliver big blue marlin every day of the year,” he continued. “The fishing grounds here are closer to shore, and calmer than in virtually any other fishing destination on earth, making the pursuit of big fish a comfortable undertaking. Kona also has a long history as a preeminent fishing destination. Charter fishing boats have plied our productive waters since the mid-1920s.” Kona’s excellent reputation for sport fishing also caught the attention of famous author, the late Jim Rizzuto, when he noted, “Kona’s consistent billfish success sparked a worldwide revolution in big game fishing because these big fish were caught on lures pioneered and developed in Hawai‘i waters. Meanwhile, big game fishermen elsewhere had been saying you could catch billfish only with bait. Even those doubters caught the Kona wave and started catching marlin on Konastyle lures. Kona is also the perfect starting point for novices who have never caught a fish in their lives. It happens every day, 365 days a year. Newcomers are well served by a wellmaintained fleet of top-of-the-line boats and expert captains.”

The Diamond Anniversary Tournament It began on Monday, July 29 at 8am. The sound of “Start fishing!” boomed for five mornings from a radio control at the Kailua pier. Teams stopped fishing at 4pm, with the exception of Wednesday, July 31, when fishing times changed to 7am to 3pm. Every team fished on a different boat each day. On Sunday, July 28, HIBT teams drew five Kona boats along with their designated captains and crews. This world-famous tournament awards prestigious winnings and trophies. In fact, this year, the winning team was awarded an 18k diamond ring, in commemoration of the tournament’s diamond anniversary. The ring is produced and supported by Kolin International in Japan and was presented to the anglers of the Laguna Niguel Billfish Club (USA); other winners were the Olympian Dream Fishing Club (Japan) and the Denarau Game & Sportsfishing Club-Team Flying Fijians (Fiji) who tied for second place, and the Kona Gamefish Club-Blue Fin (Japan) in third place. Other top awards included the Governor’s Trophy, awarded to the HIBT team scoring the highest number of billfish points in the tournament; the Duke Kahanamoku Award, given to the angler boating the heaviest qualifying billfish; the George S. Parker Award, given to the angler and captain boating a marlin over 1,000 pounds; the Henry Chee Award, awarded to the captain and crew member of the charter boat scoring

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In 1986, Gil Kramer, angler with Laguna Niguel Billfish Club caught a world record Pacific blue marlin, now on display in the lobby of Courtyard by Marriott Kona Beach Hotel.

the highest number of billfish points; and the Richard Boone Award, given to the captain and crew member of the charter boat receiving the highest scores from HIBT teams during the week. The Kailua pier during tournament week is an exciting place to hang out and watch all the action. At 4pm, the fishing stops and boats come in and out of Kailua pier, flying flags of either boated or tag-and-released catches. It’s a legendary experience only available in Kailua-Kona, and one not to be missed.

Historic Kainaliu, Kona’s original shopping village. Located 5 miles south of Kailua-Kona.

The Future of HIBT It’s easy to see why the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament is a one-of-a-kind competition. Organizers hope that the HIBT will continue to showcase Kona’s fishing to the international community for another six decades and encourage a new generation of anglers to take up sport fishing. “The next generation angler will be a fisherman of means,” said Captain Rick Gaffney. “Someone who becomes addicted to fishing at an early age and has moved on from just wanting to catch any fish, to wanting to catch a great fish on a world stage. The HIBT has offered up that opportunity for 60 years.” ■ For more information: HIBTfishing.com Photos courtesy of HIBT

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

George Parker with son, then two-year-old Marlin Parker.

Look For The Helpers: How Hawaii Tracker Became

Pivotal Community Resource

By Denise Laitinen

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

r. Rogers, the beloved children’s TV show host, is known for saying, “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” If Mr. Rogers were still alive, he would have found those helpers in the form of the Hawaii Tracker Facebook group, a team of volunteers who worked tirelessly around the clock for months to help their community during last year’s Kīlauea eruption. Hawaii Tracker’s roots go back to 2014 when Ryan Finlay created the group as a community resource when lava from Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō was threatening Pāhoa in 2014. “I was a writer and blogger and had experience with community building online through a blog I wrote called Recraigslist.” Given his background, Ryan says it was a no-brainer to help the community by creating the Hawaii Tracker group. He provided updates, fact checking information, and sharing official updates from various government agencies.

2018 Eruption The ground started shaking in Leilani Estates in early May 2018 with hundreds of earthquakes in the magnitude two range within a two-day span. Ryan looked at where the earthquakes were originating and studied maps from the 1955 Kapoho eruption. Based on his research and information being publicly posted by USGS, Ryan created a map a day before lava started coming out of the ground, predicting where he thought lava might erupt. In hindsight, he was incredibly accurate predicting the path of 24 fissures that erupted in the coming months. In the face of the unprecedented eruption, with scant information available, many in the community and around the world turned to Hawaii Tracker. Ryan went into overdrive, providing multiple updates a day. Initially, he was doing all the work himself, researching, posting, and moderating comments, and quickly realized he needed help.

The Hawaii Tracker Helpers The work of the volunteer group, many of whom did not know each other prior to the eruption, is a testament to the spirit of community collaboration. It grew organically. “People with all different skills from photographers, weather modeling, mapping, writing daily reports, they were all wanting to help. It’s an incredible team of helpers. It’s a lot like a newspaper or a TV station with different people contributing,” says Ryan. While many have contributed to Tracker, the core team includes Ryan, Andrew Hara, Dane duPont, Ken Boyer, Sarah Wilkinson, Les Pedersen, Philip Ong, and Harry Durgin. Photographer Andrew Richard Hara provided constant photo updates as events unfolded in Leilani. Harry Durgin, co-founder the Puna Weather Facebook group, provided information analyzing the lava’s impact on localized weather and trade wind patterns, since area residents were concerned about which way the hazardous volcanic gases were blowing. While lava was spewing out of the ground in lower Puna, 20 miles away the community of Volcano was experiencing roughly 100 daily earthquakes and ash eruptions due to activity at Halema‘uma‘u crater. Ken Boyer, a photographer who has lived in Volcano nearly his entire life, had never heard of Hawaii Tracker until he started livestreaming videos of the ash eruptions taking place near his home. Ryan reached out to Ken after seeing the videos and Ken was soon providing regular updates to the Tracker audience.

Hawaii Tracker team as they were about to receive the Big Island Press Club award (from left to right) Dane duPont, Harry Durgin, Ryan Finley, Les Pedersen, Sarah Wilkinson, Phillip Ong. photo by Denise Laitinen “Being part of Tracker helped me have some resources in the field,” explains Ken. “We are a team, anything we can do to help each other, we do. If we need something verified while out in the field, someone can and will do that immediately. It’s amazing.” Sarah Wilkinson had been following Tracker since its early stages and was impressed with how well-moderated the group was, as well as Ryan’s ability to provide timely and accurate information. At the time of the eruption, she and her family lived in Leilani. She quickly became glued to the Tracker group for updates and information. Sarah, who manages an office for

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

71 A map Ryan Finlay published of where he thought lava might erupt, the day before the lava erupted. map image courtesy of Ryan Finlay; background photo courtesy of Ken Boyer

Lava erupting in Leilani Estates on Makamae St. photo courtesy of Ken Boyer

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

a local archeological firm, realized she had skills that could help the group. “I appreciated how Tracker was helping me personally, and wanted to support Ryan’s efforts however I could in return,” she says. “The more I became involved, the more I realized that helping Tracker was helping me cope with my personal eruption experience.” Meanwhile Philip Ong, who has a master’s degree in geology, helped provide insights and explain updates from USGS and other organizations. Philip had lots of experience providing presentations on volcanic eruptions from his days leading educational groups, after his days as a volunteer with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. He started giving detailed video reports on a nightly basis, first at the Hub in Pāhoa and then on the Hawaii Tracker page. Since he didn’t have to condense material to fit in a newscast or short post, Philip could relay information in detail during his video reports and spend time patiently answering questions from people around the world. Les Pedersen and Dane duPont brought their mapping skills to the Tracker team. Les had been involved with Tracker since the 2014 lava threat. Dane, who still lives with his family in Leilani, has an extensive background in computer science and GIS mapping combined with military experience. Mike Purvis, a mutual friend of Ryan’s who attended the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo with Dane, introduced Dane to the Tracker group.

As lava overran the Leilani Estates community, thousands of people turned to the Hawaii Tracker Facebook group for information and updates. photo courtesy of Ken Boyer

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More than 700 homes were destroyed in lower Puna during the 2018 Kilauea eruption. photo courtesy of Ken Boyer

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An Orchestrated Effort With so many people contributing various skills, the Hawaii Tracker team was able to provide updates few other organizations could. For instance, in the early weeks of the eruption, lava inundation maps showing how many homes were destroyed were not readily available from governing agencies. Dane was able to pull together publicly available property tax records and combine that information with lava flow maps from USGS. So good were Daneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s maps that federal and state officials used them as part of their justification for requesting aid. With their resources, the Tracker team could report in real time. When lava overtook the seaside community of Kapoho, the Hawaii Tracker team was able to report what homes had been lost. Dane and other tracker members had already pulled publicly available data from the County Real Property Tax Office. Professional photographers Mick Kalber (a Leilani resident) and Bruce Omori, both well known for their lava photography, provided aerial footage confirming where the lava had flowed. Combining all the information together, they documented how many homes had been lost as the event was unfolding.

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A Calm and Civil Resource With emotions running high and media outlets reporting inaccurate information on a national and international level, providing a safe platform where information was not overstated was a challenge. Ryan points out that the group was particularly careful not to sensationalize what was happening. “It would have been easy to sensationalize to get those extra clicks, but we never went that route. If anything, we understated things.” Dane adds, “We [still] don’t raise the flag very often about something really bad happening. When the warning flag is raised, it means something.”

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Lava entering ocean near Malama Flats. photo courtesy of Ken Boyer “We were getting 100–300 post submissions a day,” chimes in Ryan, “and 1,000 new followers daily. It was a timeconsuming effort,” he adds. “We spent an enormous amount of time looking into every single submission, or did the research ourselves. For example, Sarah spent hours researching topics behind the scenes. She was a huge help and support.” People took notice of their work. It took four years for Ryan to grow the group to 4,000 members from 2014 to April 2018 and just a few months after the eruption for it to grow to more than 51,000 members. Tracker’s work in community engagement even caught the attention of Facebook itself, which sent a film crew to Puna to film Hawaii Tracker’s efforts. In February 2019 Hawaii Tracker was one of a few Facebook groups from around the world to receive a coveted invitation to attend the prestigious Facebook Communities Summit at Facebook’s national headquarters. In April, the group was recognized by the Big Island Press Club,

Ryan Finley and Dane duPont at Facebook headquarters in Menlo Park, CA. photo courtesy of Hawaii Tracker

Lava river. photo courtesy of Ken Boyer receiving the Club’s first-ever Excellence in Media Innovation award. Hawaii Tracker’s Future Now that the eruption is over, the Hawaii Tracker team is charting their next stage of evolution. Ryan is exploring various models to expand Tracker while ensuring it is financially viable. By working with local businesses for advertising and receiving contributions from members, “we are building an entire Tracker platform to enable local news and information communities to pop up all over the place,” explains Ryan. “The world happens in real time and it’s reported that way now,” says Ryan. Yet many parts of the country are in what’s called “news deserts,” with no local news outlets. “Given Puna’s size and the number of people who live out here, most

towns of a similar size on the mainland would have their own newspaper,” explains Ryan. Dane adds, “As someone with a computer science background, what we did is impressive, but compared to what is out there…we are still at the surface of real time information sharing and what’s possible. “We’re now in algorithmic age of information technology where you constantly have to adapt and…if you are not keeping pace with it, you get left in the dust. Nothing shows that more than when a disaster happens, because when a disaster strikes, you don’t have time to put new technology and processes in place.” ■ For more information: Facebook.com/HawaiiTracker, hawaii.jointracker.com

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Aunty BJ Pa Tahitian Dance Pioneer Paved the Way By Tiffany DeMasters

-year-old Betty Jane “BJ” Pa is the perfect role model for helping kūpuna (elders) live their lives to the fullest, as she continues to fulfill her passion as a hula dancer, despite her own health issues, and even while receiving her own hospice care. Her fierce spirit goes beyond being an example to her peers. She was a trailblazer for Tahitian dance on Hawai‘i Island, being the dance style’s first solo performer on Hawai‘i Island more than 60 years ago. Sitting in the lobby of the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel on a sunny afternoon in June, Aunty BJ, wearing bright colors and a yellow orchid arrangement in her hair, sifts through boxes of photos that tell a story of her life as a hula and Tahitian dancer. BJ says she loves to dance and be around people. With the support and tutelage of hula greats George Na‘ope and Iolani Luahine, she was able to share her talents during a time when Tahitian dance was not widely accepted by kumu (teachers) on Hawai‘i Island. BJ has led a rich life not only as an entertainer, but also as a wife, mother of three children, and an entrepreneur, starting her own floral business—BJ’s Creations. The Hilo woman still dances despite serious health problems that have plagued her throughout the years. To this day, she is performing, as her health permits her, with three different hālau (hula groups), and plans to attend the Hawai‘i Kūpuna Hula Festival in Kailua-Kona this month. “She made a whole lotta people want to come learn to dance hula and Tahitian,” says her husband, Sam. “She was willing to teach all.” BJ Pa outside the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel in June 2019. photo by Tiffany DeMasters

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

The Entertainer Aunty BJ started dancing hula when she was in the second grade. On Saturdays, she would practice at the Hilo Center, across the street from Hilo Theater, which was later swept away by the 1941 tsunami. BJ says she loved the dance immediately. It was an escape. She recalls participating in shows when she was younger, but her professional career as a solo performer didn’t begin until she was about 20 years old. Kaui Brandt came to Hilo in 1956. By that time, BJ was an experienced hula dancer whose curiosity had been piqued from watching Tahitan dance on TV, and so she became Kaui’s first student. Soon BJ was dancing Tahitan professionally—it was different, quite unlike the hula style of dancing typically seen, and before long the nightclubs in Hilo were booking her to perform. Being the first local Tahitian dancer wasn’t easy because it wasn’t accepted by some of the kumu. She explains that the teachers at the time were used to the hula, where the dancers were all covered up. “Then here I am, I’m not Polynesian, I mean I have a little bit of Hawaiian, but you see a white person—I was bumping and grinding,” says Aunty BJ. “Your body is more exposed and there were some that didn’t appreciate that.” Aunty BJ also started dancing as a solo Tahitian dancer in Kailua-Kona. She performed at Johnny Spencer’s Steak House along with other restaurants in the area. While living in Kona, Aunty BJ lived near Iolani, a kumu to many of the teachers, who at the time, was the caretaker of Hulihe‘e Palace. The two became friends. BJ says it was Iolani who taught her the importance of facial expressions during a performance. BJ recalls going with Iolani to shows to watch her perform.

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BJ performed Tahitian dance in the 1956 Miss Hawaii pageant where she placed as a runner up. photo courtesty of BJ Pa

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She explains hula isn’t just about the hands and feet. It’s also about facial expressions. She adds, “In hula you express from your na‘au [core].” She also performed at Hilo’s Grand Naniloa Hotel. She greeted ships in Hilo and took the stage for servicemen at the Pōhakuloa Training Area. She had the opportunity to perform for dignitaries, including President Lyndon B. Johnson when he arrived at Hilo International Airport. In addition, BJ performed in Honolulu and had the opportunity to go to the mainland when she traveled with the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo’s extension to Washington DC, where she performed hula at the State Capitol. After Kaui left for Honolulu, BJ joined Uncle George, a kumu to many of today’s teachers. He was among a small group of kumu who encouraged her Tahitian dancing and invited her to teach in his studio. Aunty BJ says Uncle George was a good friend and had her involved in many things throughout the years, including the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival. When he moved to Kona, she danced with Lani Wong. Fixture of Hawai‘i Island’s Hula Community Aunty BJ was among the first performers and participants in the pageantry when the Merrie Monarch began in 1968 as a way to bolster tourism in Hilo. She was in every festival before it became a competition in 1971. While she never competed in the Merrie Monarch competition, Aunty BJ would go as a spectator and to help Uncle George, one of the festival founders. She and George are pictured in several of the old Merrie Monarch calendars, which she keeps as mementos. She has attended the event almost every year, has helped as a

BJ with Merrie Monarch Festival’s Luana Kawelu. photo courtesy of BJ Pa greeter, and has performed on different stages throughout the weeklong festivities. Aunty BJ performs with Alu Like and has been featured as a solo dancer. Haunani Medeiros, activities coordinator with Alu Like, a native Hawaiian program for kūpuna, says Aunty BJ has been part of the program for more than 20 years. Haunani describes

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

BJ as “a woman full of life. Everything she does is fabulous. It’s an honor knowing this lady.” Haunani says sheʻs told BJ on several occasions that she should have been Miss Aloha Hula, as this talented woman embodies the spirit of aloha and hula. While Aunty BJ is known for her dancing, she’s also famous for her skill in lei-making and floral arrangements, and her hairpieces often distinguish her. Aunty BJ says her hairpieces always fascinate everyone, as she always has a “garden on my head.” “You’re in Hawai‘i, why not wear flowers? It’s part of hula,” BJ says. Her love for flowers led her to create her own floral business in the 1990s. While she makes several hairpieces, she also does wedding floral arrangements. Throughout the years, Aunty BJ continues to volunteer with Alu Like through its various programs. Haunani says Aunty BJ makes haku lei and hairpieces for the ladies who dance with Alu Like. She provides all the flowers and doesn’t charge. She performs throughout the year with Alu Like and two other hālau, as her health permits. She also participates in Kūpuna Hula every September in Kona, and intends to again this year.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

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Hula Is Life Outside of hula and flowers, Aunty BJ worked in sales at Hilo Hattie and later the Mu‘umu‘u Tree at the Naniloa Hotel; however, her life changed dramatically in the 1970s when she fell down a flight of stairs while on Maui, where she had been entertaining at one of the hotels. She suffered a neck injury and was bedridden for almost two years. After she recovered, she went back to work at Hilo Hattie. About a year and half later, she was forced into medical retirement due to increasing health problems. In 2005, Aunty BJ underwent open-heart surgery in order to receive an artificial heart valve. In 2000, Aunty BJ was honored as the island’s first Tahitian dancer at Hilo’s Heiva and Tahiti Fete. A few years after the fete she, once again, suffered a medical setback when she contracted E. coli while being treated in Honolulu for pneumonia. As a result of the infection, she couldn’t walk. “I lost my legs,” she says. Aunty BJ was admitted to the Ka Punawai Ola Nursing Home in Kapolei on O‘ahu where she had to relearn how to walk. Hula found her again during her time there. She says a hula hālau came to entertain the residents and the kumu invited her to join. She also ended up joining another group out of Kapolei that taught at Ewa Beach’s senior housing. In 2015, Aunty BJ was told by doctors that her artificial valve was not working and there was nothing more they could do for her. They advised her to go back to Hilo to get her affairs in order, give away her belongings, and plan her funeral. At first, Aunty BJ did as the doctors advised; however, that was too depressing, so she went back to doing what she does best— living and dancing hula. Aunty BJ dances with Alu Like as well as hālau hula Nā Wahine a nā Kane Punahele ‘o Ka Pu‘uwai. Aunty BJ also volunteers through one of Alu Like’s cultural programs where she teaches visitors how to make lei and hairpieces. “I’m here through the grace of God every day and I’m still dancing,” says Aunty BJ. “If I die dancing hula, I’ll die happy.” ■

Fantuzzi Global Troubadour at Home on Hawai‘i Island By Mᾱlielani Larish Awakening to ocean breezes and bird song, Fantuzzi looks forward to a day of wrestling with rocks, planting trees, and honoring Pele on the land in lower Puna that he calls home. After months of performing in many different locations, it feels unique to finally dedicate his time to rejuvenation at his Ohia Rainforest Sanctuary on Hawai‘i Island. When he’s not uplifting audiences worldwide as a singer/ songwriter who embodies love in action, Fantuzzi returns to Hawai‘i Island as often as he can to do what he’s excelled at for the past 50 years: building community and relationships, promoting respect for nature, and fostering peace and spiritual awareness through the performing arts. A Living Legend Fantuzzi rides the wave of art and activism’s intersection, and that is why he has performed and emceed at landmark music festivals and spiritual gatherings since Woodstock’s inception in 1969. His playful spirit, captured by a photographer at the first Woodstock festival, landed him on the cover of Newsweek. He was also at the first Burning Man, the first Rainbow Gathering, and the first Glastonbury Festival in England, and he has brought his joyful, healing, soulful music to more than 150 countries around the globe. Famous Harvard psychologist and counterculture innovator Timothy Leary called Fantuzzi a “cultural icon.” Fantuzzi has played with the likes of Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Billy Preston, Richie Havens, Babatunde Olatunji, Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead, Taj Mahal, and many more. Reflecting the allencompassing nature of his life experience, Fantuzzi’s music

Fantuzzi at the 2013 Kumbha Mela. photo courtesy of Eli Jacobs-Fantauzzi

ranges from soothing devotional ballads to sensual salsa and merengue, celebratory Afro-Caribbean Nyabinghi, energizing Afro-funk, and inspiring island reggae. His best-selling CDs include Tribal Revival (2004), Divine Inspiration (2007), and Ease & Grace (2014). When asked what it’s like to return to his home in lower Puna after a nonstop performance schedule, Fantuzzi says, “It feels like being rewarded for some good works. I never thought I’d have my own piece of land, my own sanctuary. It’s an amazing feeling.” Autobiography of a Yogi from Spanish Harlem Growing up poor in New York’s Spanish Harlem, the grim

Fantuzzi at Shakti Fest in Joshua Tree on Mother’s Day weekend 2019. photo courtesy of Kyer Wiltshire

At age 14, Fantuzzi discovered yoga when he received an inconspicuous pamphlet written by a sage from India. Enthralled by the teachings that it contained, he told his mother that he had found God, and she replied with an enthusiastic, “Good boy!” As a “19-year-old, very hungry to be closer to my source,” Fantuzzi traveled to India and was fortunate enough to receive blessings from several renowned spiritual masters of that time, including Ananda Mai Ma, Sridi Sai Baba, and the Mother in Pondicherry. Fantuzzi performs in Nimbin, Australia. photo courtesy of Kat Dancer

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

realities of drugs, violence, and suffering dominated Fantuzzi’s early life. He found safe haven in his loving parents, who are of Puerto Rican/native Taíno heritage, and the rhythms that surrounded him: romantic Latin ballads, steamy salsa, Motown grooves, and rock & roll. Thanks to the mentorship of a total stranger, a schoolteacher from Idaho who saw something unique in a 7-year-old Fantuzzi shoveling snow from his neighbor’s walkway, doors opened for Fantuzzi to experiment with theater and music. By age 12, he nabbed his first acting role in Shakespeare’s A Winter’s Tale. He went on to act professionally and served as the musical director for two theatrical dance companies that performed around the world.

Fantuzzi at Woodstock in 2013. photo courtesy of Roland Marconi

by Rainbow Gatherings perfectly resonates with Fantuzzi. He attended the first Rainbow Gathering in Boulder, Colorado in 1972 and has attended all but two in the US since then. Birth and Rebirth The miracle of birth first brought Fantuzzi to the Hawaiian Islands in 1977. With a second child on the way, his partner and fellow world traveler Lila asked him where he wanted to go next. Always trusting that the Universe conspires to deliver him to the right place at the right time, he replied “Hawai‘i!” without hesitation. Within minutes of being picked up at the airport on Maui, Fantuzzi landed a job as percussionist in a band called the Heartstrings. Serendipitously, his newborn son was baptized by a dozen kāhuna at a beach on Maui, garnering him the nickname of “dolphin boy.” Enchanted with Maui’s magic, he led spiritual gatherings on secluded beaches, taught Afro-Caribbean dance, and organized giant lū‘au, requiring attendees to pick up trash along the beach before feasting. Hawai‘i became an essential stop during Fantuzzi’s annual world pilgrimages. In a typical year, Fantuzzi may lend his charisma to Maui’s Sufi Camp, play at Maui’s Earth Day, visit Kaua‘i to perform at Mirabai Devi’s Sanctuary, and hold intimate concerts on Hawai‘i Island at places like Uncle Robert’s, Kukuau Studio, and Pāhoa’s Lava Shack. In 2011 he discovered the acreage in lower Puna that would become the

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

All of his life experiences, combined with a daily devotional practice, developed Fantuzzi into a “love warrior” whose unfading faith in the power of love knows no limits. It’s just as important to Fantuzzi to feed and clothe a street urchin in Kathmandu (which he did!) as it is for him to embark on an international music tour dedicated to peace, eco-sustainable solutions, and the rights of indigenous peoples. “If somebody is on the street, lonely, hungry, or really out of it, sometimes I will sit with that person and look them straight in the eye, into the heart and make a connection with them,” Fantuzzi says. “Wherever the bell rings, that is where we must be,” he reflects. “We don’t have time to sit around and be frustrated about what’s going on—we have to be smart and figure out how we can resolve and heal the situation.” With this vision of stewardship in mind, Fantuzzi has organized meditation vigils, coordinated efforts to resupply and rebuild Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, and delivered TEDx talks that inspire audiences to stand up, sing, and dance. Wherever he goes, Fantuzzi engages those around him through the magic of music and movement, helping people of all ages reconnect with their inherent joy and strength. Although Fantuzzi’s music has garnered several awards, he describes his true and ongoing “Grammy moment” as hearing his songs played at Rainbow Gatherings. The ideals of non-violence, free expression, and spiritual awareness fostered

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Ohia Rainforest Sanctuary. Fantuzzi returns to the sanctuary often. This year he was blessed to be able to return four times so far. He relishes the opportunity to engage in physical labor on his land, musing that, “it makes me turn into a superhero!” He feels rejuvenated and inspired by his idylls at the sanctuary and anticipates the day when his time spent in Hawai‘i waxes while his time on the road wanes. Giving of Abundance Hawai‘i Island’s wild, unsurpassed beauty convinced Fantuzzi to fold his wings and rest here. He delights in giving away buckets of liliko‘i and 40-pound jackfruits harvested from his land. He loves the fact that one can play in the snow on Maunakea’s summit and swim at a gorgeous beach within a single day. As a natural-born “fish,” he revels in long distance swims and the chance to gaze into the eyes of the dolphins and whales that may cross his path. The value of mālama ‘āina (caring for the land) is of great importance to Fantuzzi. That’s why he has organized clean-ups to restore the beauty of the coastline and “prayer-formances” to honor the sacredness of the land. With his friend and mentor, Uncle Kaliko, Fantuzzi has participated in many ceremonies for the land, and he has teamed with Kaliko to offer rites at the sanctuary that incorporate Hawaiian prayers in a traditional Lakota sweat lodge ceremony. In addition to the yoga, music, and storytelling that Fantuzzi invites the community to enjoy at his home, he envisions using the land to host a nature-based camp for local youth. Fantuzzi helped conceive two popular festivals in lower Puna that highlight our sacred relationship with Mother Earth: MAnaFest and FlowFest. MAnafest is a three-day zero waste event dedicated to the celebration of the sacred feminine through music, movement, workshops, and healing arts. FlowFest celebrates community and honors the earth through three days of inspirational facilitators, performances, and visual arts. No matter where he travels, the people he meets “make the place” for Fantuzzi. He loves that the spirit of aloha is alive and well on Hawai‘i Island, where he has experienced this generosity in his relationships. He is dear friends with Sam Keli‘iho‘omalu, Uncle Robert’s son, who helped found the Uncle Robert’s Farmers’ Market with his brothers. Fantuzzi enjoys spending time with one of his best friends from childhood, Gabriel de Silva, a successful musician and artist, who lives a mile away from him. As hānai (adopted) brothers who survived New York’s gritty streets together, Fantuzzi encouraged Gabriel’s transition to Hawai‘i. Fantuzzi will always continue to give back, fed by the wellspring of gratitude bubbling up within his heart. “From home in Puna,” he says with an infectious smile, “I will blast out to the world all the good vibrations that God gives me to sing out.” Fantuzzi can be booked for solo or group performances, children’s shows, vocal coaching, and workshops in dance, drumming, and yoga. Each time a person buys Fantuzzi’s music or donates to his website, that donation supports his efforts to promote world peace. ■ For more information: fantuzzimusic.com and facebook.com/FantuzziMusic2

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Featured Cover Photographer: Rita French Rita French was born and raised in Montana, but knew from about seven years old that Hawai‘i was her real home. It only took her 55 years to get here! 11 years ago she sold everything and moved to Hawai’i Island with two suitcases, not knowing a soul.

two Rolleiflexs and two Contaxs. When everything went to digital, Sony put Carl Zeiss lenses on their cameras, so that is what I have used for the past 30 years or so.” Rita’s dream is to be able to travel the world taking photographs. Photography is her complete passion, with everything being her subject, and her favorite subjects are people, especially if they don’t know she is taking a photograph. Rita calls this her Soul Journey, saying, “Everywhere I go, I am inspired by something to photograph.” Rita also started a Facebook group in 2015 called Be Love in Your Every Thought, Word and Deed, where people share positive messages with each other. Many of her photographs are featured there, along with inspiring messages. Her photo on the cover, Regal, was shot at Waiakea Villas in 2010. She watched and photo-documented this baby nene from when it was born until it grew so large she couldn’t differentiate it from its parents. For more information: facebook.com/anelakamalani

Tommy Adkins

Tommy was born and raised in Ohio. His love of fly fishing and nature photography has drawn him across the continent and around the world. Working as a fly fishing guide and ship’s engineer, Tommy has had the opportunity to live and work in a number of ecologically diverse locations including Colorado, the Bahamas, Palmyra Atoll, and now Hawai‘i, where he has made his home. His travels have taken him through the jungles of southeast Asia to the fjords of New Zealand. Throughout his work and travels, a Nikon camera has been his constant companion. Tommy is continually honing his skills in photography, instilled in him at a young age by his father, documenting the natural world as he sees it. For more information: tommyadkinsphotography.com

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

When asked when she first got into photography, Rita shares, “I have always had a camera in hand, even as a child with an old Kodak Brownie camera. Forty-some years ago I studied with a photographer in Malta, Montana, and for approximately ten years I photographed all the things you need to photograph to make money, such as schools, weddings, seniors, sports, and families. Although it was enjoyable, it was not very fulfilling so I stopped and now just take the photos that move me. In recent years, I have done a few weddings and seniors and so forth, but they are not my priority any longer.” This experienced photographer and mentor used Hasselblads, Leicas and Rolleiflexes—the best cameras on the market, pre-digital. These cameras mostly had Carl Ziess lenses, the best German lenses made. Rita says, “Back then we were still shooting with film and when I started out, I had

Table Of Contents Photographer:

Crossword Puzzle | By Myles Mellor

Enjoy this crossword that tests your knowledge about what you read in this edition of Ke Ola Magazine, including the ads, while learning about Hawaiian culture and our island home! Some answers are in English, some are in Hawaiian. Feel free to use the Hawaiian reference library at wehewehe.org. Answers can be found on page 89.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Your feedback is always welcome. HIeditor@keolamagazine.com

Across

Down

1 It represented the first unification of the Hawaiian island, 4 words 8 Young dragonflies 11 Hawaiian sand sculpture artist, Mike ___ 12 Had a debt to 13 Color of the head of the bird in 22 across 15 Banyan, for one 17 Groceries holder 19 Hawaiian singer, ___ Valentine 22 One of the largest living Hawaiian honeycreepers 24 Firm or solid in Hawaiian 26 Biblical transport 27 Popular Hawaiian flowers 30 Hawaiian word for stingy 32 Umi’s mother 33 Like the Hawaiian kings 35 Farm animal that provides milk and cheese 36 Hawaiian artist who performed and MC’d at Woodstock

1 Tahitian dance pioneer, 3 words 2 Hawaiian king who started off as a humble farmer 3 Tally up 4 English abbreviation of what, in Hawaiian, means Mauna 5 Chief 6 Entomb 7 Queen Lili‘uokalani’s instrument, briefly 9 Everyone 10 Pig 11 Sum up 14 Possess 16 Verve 18 Look for a long time at 20 Canoe equipment 21 Name of an important Hawaiian Forest National Wildlife Refuge 23 Three in a line of kings 25 Hawaiian word for elders 27 Mauna Loa, for example 28 Hawaiian word for dream 29 Brazilian city 31 Prefix with pad or copter 32 Chicken piece 33 Macadamia, for one 34 Business in slang

Puna Kamali'i Flowers, Inc. Vicki Nelson, co-founder of Puna Kamali‘i Flowers, Inc., started her business with her husband in 1998 after searching for employment for her son with developmental disabilities. After realizing there were limited jobs available for him, Vicki said she saw a void she needed to fill. Now her business has helped more than a hundred individuals throughout the years. “This company is about helping people with developmental disabilities find work,” Vicki says. Currently there are about 37 people working at the company, and about half of her employees are people with developmental disabilities. On the company’s website, numerous testimonials pay homage to their employer describing how the work they perform may be challenging at times, yet it has instilled within

them a sense of self-worth and independence. One employee, Orren Flores, even refers to his job as a “second home.” “It is a lot of fun to work here, and I hope to work here for a long time,” he writes. Vicki believes that it’s important for people with developmental disabilities to find gainful employment because like everyone else, work gives them a sense of accomplishment, pride, and joy. Located in Kea‘au on the eastside of the island, Puna Kamali‘i Flowers, Inc. offers a wide range of services, including tropical flower sales and specialized tours. They act as a vocational training center, provider of services, and employment center and offer retail or wholesale floral gift

Puna Kamali‘i Flowers, Inc. 16-211 Kalara St., Kea‘au 808.982.8322 FlowersFromHawaii.biz

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

boxes, tropical cut flowers, tropical plants, lei, tropical foliage, and more. One of their diversified services is confidential document shredding for businesses. Vicki said they’re always looking to grow and expand their opportunities and business partnerships on the island. Puna Kamali‘i Flowers, Inc also accepts donations.

Hawai‘i Island Happenings Wondering what’s happening around Hawai‘i Island? Visit these businesses and organizations websites for the most up-to-date event calendars.

365 Kona

365kona.com Julie@Ziemelis.com

Akamai Events

AkamaiEvents.com aloha@akamaievents.com 808.747.2829

Aloha Theatre–Kainaliu Aloha Performing Arts Company ApacHawaii.org info@apachawaii.org 808.322.9924

Basically Books

BasicallyBooks.com bbinfo@hawaiiantel.net 808.961.0144

Donkey Mill Art Center

DonkeyMillArtCenter.org 808.322.3362

Downtown Hilo Improvement Association DowntownHilo.com 808.935.8850

Food Hub Kohala

FoodHubKohala.org karla@andreadean.com Karla Heath, 808.224.1404

Friends of NELHA

FriendsOfNelha.org 808.329.8073

Hawaiian Cultural Center of Hāmākua hccoh.org info.HCCOH@gmail.com 808.494.0626

Hawai‘i Homegrown Food Network HawaiiHomeGrown.net editor@hawaiihomegrown.net

Hawaii Museum of Contemporary Art/ EHCC EHCC.org arts@ehcc.org 808.961.5711

Holualoa Village Association HolualoaHawaii.com

Honoka‘a People’s Theatre HonokaaPeople.com hpt@honokaapeople.com 808.775.0000

Hulihe‘e Palace Wilhelmina’s Tea DaughtersOfHawaii.org info@daughtersofhawaii.org 808.329.1877

‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawai‘i ImiloaHawaii.org vrecinto@imiloahawaii.org 808.969.9703

InBigIsland

InBigIsland.com tony@inbigisland.com 808.333.6936

Island of Hawai‘i Visitors Bureau

Kahilu Theatre–Waimea KahiluTheatre.org 808.885.6868

Kailua Village Business Improvement District HistoricKailuaVillage.com kailuavillage@gmail.com 808.326.7820

Kona Historical Society KonaHistorical.org khs@konahistorical.org 808.323.3222

Kona Choral Society

KonaChoralSociety.org 808.334.9880

Kona Stories Bookstore KonaStories.com ks@konastories.com 808.324.0350

gohawaii.com/hawaii-island hawaii-island@hvcb.org 800.648.2441

Complete Your Island Lifestyle with a Hot Tub!

Resort and Shopping Center Cultural Events

Log onto websites for event calendars

Keauhou Shopping Center KeauhouVillageShops.com 808.322.3000

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Kingsʻ Shops–Waikoloa

KingsShops.com 808.886.8811

Relieve Stress Alleviate Pain Restore Your Natural Energy Remember Who You Truly Are…

Kona Commons Shopping Center

Experience Reiki — Find Heaven on Earth!

Kona International Marketplace

Reiki is a gentle form of healing, used for nearly a hundred years in Japan. It activates the body’s own natural ability to heal itself.

Prince Kuhio Plaza

KonaCommons.com 808.334.0005

KonaInternationalMarket.com 808.329.6262 PrinceKuhioPlaza.com/events 808.959.3555

Located in a tranquil comfortable setting in Hilo. Evening and weekend appointments available.

Queens’ MarketPlace–Waikoloa

$90 per 1.5 hour session

QueensMarketplace.net 808.886.8822

Mention this ad, receive $15 off! Gift certificates available

Barbara Garcia 16 year Reiki Master Call / Text for an appt:

808-345-2017 /barbgarciareiki

The Shops at Mauna Lani

Hilo Showroom: 1717 Kamehameha Ave. Kona Showroom: 79-7511 Mamalahoa Hwy.

HILO 933-9111 KONA 322-2222 www.WaterWorksHawaii.com

ShopsAtMaunaLani.com/events 808.885.9501

Hawai‘i Island Happenings Wondering what’s happening around Hawai‘i Island? Visit these businesses and organizations websites for the most up-to-date event calendars.

West Hawaii Dance Theatre and Academy

Konaweb

Palace Theater–Hilo

Lyman Museum

Society for Kona’s Education & Art (SKEA)

KonaWeb.com shirley@konaweb.com Shirley Stoffer, 808.345.2627

LymanMuseum.org membership@lymanmuseum.org Liz Ambrose, 808.935.5021

Nā Wai Iwi Ola (NWIO) Foundation NaWaiIwiOla.org kumukealaching@nawaiiwiola.org Kumu Keala Ching

North Kohala Community Resource Center NorthKohala.org info@northkohala.org 808.889.5523

One Island Sustainable Living Center One-Island.org hawaii@one-island.org 808.328.2452

Whdt.org vh2dns4@ilhawaii.net Virginia Holte, 808.329.8876

HiloPalace.com info@hilopalace.com 808.934.7010 Skea.org 808.328.9392

CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS

Volcano Art Center–Gallery volcanoartcenter.org Director@volcanoartcenter.org 808.967.8222 UH Hilo Performing Arts Center ArtsCenter.uhh.hawaii.edu artscenter@hawaii.edu 808.974.7310

Waimea Community Theatre

WaimeaCommunityTheatre.org 808.885.5818

West Hawai‘i County Band

WestHawaiiBand.com westhawaiiband@gmail.com 808.961.8699

PUBLIC NOTICE Compliments of

Owners who are operating Short-Term Vacation Rentals (STVRs) in Hawaii County have until September 30, 2019 to register their property and pay a $500 registration fee, according to new rules adopted in April of this year. The registration form and related instructions can be found on the County of Hawaii Planning Department website (see link below). It is the responsibility of all operators of STVRs to read the bill in its entirety and seek legal advice from attorneys as needed to be in compliance. Upon registration, operators must show that all TAT and GET has been collected and paid. No new vacation rentals will be permitted in areas zoned residential or agricultural, howeve however, existing vacation rentals in these areas may be permitted with a Non-Conforming Use Certificate (NUC) and a $250.00 registration (other qualifying criteria may apply). For more information: hiplanningdept.com/short-term-vacation-rentals/ Read the bill in its entirety: http://www.hiplanningdept.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/ORD-2018-114-2016-2018.pdf.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

HAWAII COUNTY SHORT TERM VACATION RENTAL REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY SEPTEMBER 30, 2019

To submit volunteer information for your nonprofit go to: kokua@keolamagazine.com

Community Kökua

AdvoCATS

Kona Vistas Recreational Center 75-6350 Pualani St, Kailua-Kona 3rd Saturday, 1pm Trap, neuter, spay, community education, colony feeding, management. Contact Stephanie or Nancy advocatshawaii@aol.org 808.327.3724

Alzheimerʻs Association Aloha Chapter

Kailua-Kona and Hilo Ongoing Variety of volunteer opportunities available. Patrick Toal patoal@alz.org 808.591.2771 x 8234 alz.org/hawaii

Anna Ranch Heritage Center

65-1480 Kawaihae Rd., Waimea Tuesday–Friday, 10am–2:30pm Looking for docent volunteers to provide guided tours. Contact Dayna Wong programs@annaranch.org 808.885.4426 annaranch.org

Boys & Girls Club of the Big Island

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Hilo, Kea‘au, Pāhoa, Pāhala Oceanview, Hāmākua Monday–Friday, 2:30–5pm Volunteers needed for after-school youth programs 808.961.5536

Volunteer Opportunities Bgcbi.com

Calabash Cousins

Hulihe‘e Palace Grounds, Kailua-Kona 2nd Thursday of the month, 1–2:30pm Men and women who support the mission of Daughters of Hawai‘i. Contact Geri Eckert hulihee@daughtersofhawaii.org 808.329.9555 DaughtersofHawaii.org

CommUNITY cares

Kailua-Kona Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm Saturday, 9am–2pm Community suffering from cancer, medical hair loss, domestic abuse. Contact Tiana Steinberg communitycareshawaii@gmail.com 808.326.2866

Donkey Mill Art Center

Hōlualoa Hōlualoa Foundation for Arts and Culture Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–4pm Volunteers help in arts education program. Contact Anne Catlin donkeymill@gmail.com 808.322.3362 DonkeyMillArtCenter.org

East Hawai‘i Cultural Center/HMOCA

Gallery Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–4PM

Office Hours: Tuesday–Friday, 10am–4pm Volunteer in the art galleries, performing arts, classes, workshops, festivals. admin@ehcc.org 808.961.5711 Ehcc.org

Friends of Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden

Captain Cook Saturday, 9am–noon Volunteers needed to help with weeding, trimming and maintenance of the gardens. Contact Peter 808.323.3318 or 808.936.6457 kaluulu@hawaii.rr.com Facebook.com/Friends-of-Amy-Greenwell- Ethnobotanical-Garden-761479683986161

Friends of Lili‘uokalani Gardens

Hilo Ongoing Volunteers needed to help with the maintenance of Lili‘uokalani Gardens. kteger@hawaii.rr.com facebook.com/friendsofliliuokalanigardens/

Friends of NELHA

Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawai‘i Keāhole Kona Monday–Friday, 9am–noon Share Ocean Science/Technology using deep ocean water.

Use provided contacts for information (Listings provided on a space available basis)

808.329.8073 EnergyFutureHawaii.org

Hāmākua Youth Foundation, Inc.

Hāmākua Youth Center, Honoka‘a Daily, Mon. Tue. Fri. 2–5:30pm Wed. 1–5:30pm, Thu. 2–8pm Serving Hamakua’s school-age kids. Contact T. Mahealani Maiku‘i HamakuaYouthCenter@gmail.com 808.775.0976 HamakuaYouthCenter.wordpress.com

Hawai‘i Care Choices (Formerly Hospice of Hilo)

Serving East Hawai‘i since 1983 Seeking volunteers to provide staff support and care to patients and families. Contact Jeanette Mochida jmochida@hawaiicarechoices.org 808.969.1733 HawaiiCareChoices.org

Hawaii Literacy/Kona Literacy Center Bougainvilla Plaza, Kailua-Kona Ongoing at various times Kona Literacy provides free, one-to-one tutoring for English speaking adults. Contact Lisa Jacob lisa.jacob@hawaiiliteracy.org HawaiiLiteracy.org

Hawai‘i Island Humane Society

Kona Shelter, Kailua-Kona

To submit volunteer information for your nonprofit go to: kokua@keolamagazine.com

Community Kökua

Monday–Saturday, 9am–5pm Need volunteers 16 or older, parent/child team 6 or older. Contact Bebe Ackerman volunteer@hihs.org 808.217.0154 Hihs.org

Hawai‘i Plantation Museum

Pāpa‘ikou Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–3pm Greet Visitors, assist with tours. Contact Wayne Subica plantationmuseum@gmail.com 808.964.5151 hawaiiplantationmuseum.org

Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund

Wai‘ōhinu Coastline, Ka‘ū SE Hawai‘i Island beach cleanups. Ongoing 7:45am Contact Megan Lamson meg.hwf@gmail.com 808.769.7629 WildHawaii.org

Hope Services Hawaii, Inc.

The Friendly Place Resource Center, Kailua-Kona Ongoing Volunteers help our community members who are experiencing homelessness. Contact Joycelyn Cabal volunteer@hopeserviceshawaii.org 808.217.2830 hopeserviceshawaii.org/getinvolved/

Volunteer Opportunities Hospice Care

North Hawai‘i Hospice, Waimea Monday–Friday, 8am–4:30pm Care for families facing serious illness. Contact Catrinka Holland volunteer.coordinator@northhawaiihospice.org 808.885.7547 NorthHawaiiHospice.org

Hui Kaloko-Honokohau

Kaloko Fishpond, Kailua-Kona Last Sunday of every month, 8am–noon Rehabilitating Kaloko Fishpond. Learn about Hawaiian culture and ecosystem. Volunteer with invasive species removal. Contact Ruth Aloua ruthaloua@gmail.com 808.785.0211

‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawai‘i Hilo Tuesday-Sunday 9am–5pm Assist with tours, shows, education programs and membership. Contact Roxanne Ching rching@imiloahawaii.org 808.969.9704 imiloahawaii.org

Kahalu‘u Bay Education Center Kahalu‘u Beach, Kailua-Kona Daily 9:30am–4:30pm

Use provided contacts for information (Listings provided on a space available basis)

ReefTeach Volunteers educate visitors on reef etiquette and protection. Contact Rachel Silverman rsilverman@kohalacenter.org 808.887.6411 KahaluuBay.org

Seeking volunteers to create the Carousel of Aloha Pavilion. Contact Katherine Patton carouselofaloha@gmail.com 808.315.1093 CarouselOfAloha.org

Kohala Animal Relocation & Education Service (KARES)

Parrots in Paradise Sanctuary

Kamuela/Kona Shopping Area Saturdays and/or Sundays, 11am–4pm Volunteers needed to assist with pet adoption events. Contact: Deborah Cravatta pets@kohalaanimal.org 808.333.6299 KohalaAnimal.org

Kealakekua Flexible hours Monday–Friday Sanctuary for displaced parrots. Contact Dorothy Walsh Dorothy@parrotsinparadise.com 808.322.3006 ParrotsInParadise.com

Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary

Kailua-Kona Seeking volunteers for help with box office and ushering at our concerts. Contact John Week info@KonaChoralSociety.org 808.334.9880 KonaChoralSociety.org

Kurtistown Ongoing Volunteers needed to help care for the animals, repairs and maintenance to the Sanctuary, and help with the office paperwork. Contact Mary Rose mail@rainbowfriends.org 808.982.5110 RainbowFriends.org

Ku‘ikahi Mediation Center

Snorkel Day for People with Disabilities

Lions Clubs International

Sundayʻs Child Foundation

Make-A-Wish Hawaii

The Pregnancy Center

Kona Choral Society

Hilo Ongoing Become a volunteer mediator via Basic Mediation Training and apprenticeship. info@hawaiimediation.org 808.935.7844 HawaiiMediation.org Various Locations, Kailua-Kona 2nd Tuesday, 5:30pm “We Serve” is the motto of Lions Clubs International. Contact Lani 808.325.1973 lanika@hawaii.rr.com Ongoing Granting wishes for children with life-threatening medical conditions. info@hawaii.wish.org 808.537.3118 Hawaii.Wish.org

Malama O Puna

15-2881 Pahoa Village Rd, Pahoa Weekdays: 10am–1pm or by appt. Volunteers needed for outdoor work for our environmental nonprofit doing hands-on projects. Contact Rene malamaopuna@yahoo.com 808.965.2000 malamaopuna.org

North Kohala Community Resource Center

Kohala Welcome Center, Hāwī Daily 9am–noon or noon–3pm Greet people to North Kohala with aloha. Contact Juanita Rivera juanita@northkohala.org 808.889.5523 NorthKohala.org

Paradise Ponies, Carousel of Aloha Hilo Coffee Mill, Mountain View Ongoing

Kahalu‘u Beach Park, Kailua-Kona 3rd Friday, 10am–2pm Volunteers needed. Contact Hannah Merrill snorkelday@deepandbeyond.org 808.326.4400 x 4017 DeepAndBeyond.org

Kamuela Serving at-risk youth aged 6 to 17 Volunteers needed islandwide. Contact Lauren Rainier requests@sundayschildfoundation.org 877.375.9191 SundaysChildFoundation.org Kailua-Kona (serves the entire island) Monday–Friday Volunteers needed and appreciated! Free pregnancy testing, ultra sound, and client support. Contact Matthew Schaetzle, Director tpc@tpckona.com 808.326.2060 TpcKona.com

Therapeutic Horsemanship of Hawaii Kailua-Kona Volunteers are the heart and soul of this program. All levels of expertise needed. Contact Nancy Bloomfield nannygirl@hawaii.rr.com 808.937.7903 ThhKona.org

Visitor Aloha Society of Hawai’i Island (VASH) Islandwide Ongoing Volunteers need to provide assistance to visitors who experience misfortune while visiting Hawai’i Island. Training provided. Contact Phoebe Barela west@vashbigisland.org 808.756.0785 Kona / 808.756.1472 Hilo VashBigIsland.org

Hawai‘i Island Farmers Markets East Daily Kea‘au Village Market Behind Spoonful Cafe and gas station, Kea‘au • 7am–5pm

Monday–Saturday

West

Saturday

Keauhou Farmers’ Market Keauhou Shopping Center 8am–noon * Waikoloa Village Farmers’ Market 68-3625 Paniolo Ave., Waikoloa Community Church parking lot 7:30am–1pm g Hōlualoa Gardens Farmers’ Market 76-5901 Mamalahoa Hwy, 9am–noon g

Sunday Pure Kona Green Market Amy Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden, Kealakekua 9am–2pm * g

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Wednesday Kings’ Shops Farmers’ Market Waikoloa Beach Resort 8:30am–2:30pm Ho‘oulu Community Farmers’ Market Sheraton Kona Resort at Keauhou Bay 9am–2pm g Kona Sunset Farmers’ Market 74-5511 Luhia St. (HPM parking lot) 2-6pm g

Wednesday–Sunday

Kona Village Farmers’ Market Corner of Ali‘i Dr. and Hualālai 92 Rd. 7am–4pm

1st and 3rd Friday of the Month Mā‘ona Community Garden Friday Night Market 84-5097 Keala O Keawe Rd., Hōnaunau 4–8pm

North

Saturday

Hawi Farmers’ Market North Kohala, across from post office and Nakahara Store 8am–3pm * Kamuela Farmers’ Market 67-139 Pukalani Rd., Waimea 7:30am–1pm * Kūhiō Hale Farmers’ Market 4-756 Māmalahoa Hwy., Waimea 7:30am–12:30pm Waimea Town Market at Parker School 65-1224 Lindsey Rd., Waimea 8am–1pm g Waimea Homestead Farmers’ Market 67-1229 Māmalahoa Hwy. at Lindsey Rd., Waimea 7am–noon

Tuesday Kekela Farms Organic Farmers’ Market 64-604 Mana Rd., Waimea 2–5pm

Dimple Cheek Farm Stand Hwy 11, Mountain View 10am–6pm

Saturday Hawaiian Acres Farmers’ Market 16-1325 Moho Rd., Kurtistown 10am–3pm Hilo Coffee Mill 17-995 Volcano Rd., Mountain View (Hwy. 11 between mile markers 12 and 13) 9am–2pm * Hilo Farmers’ Market Corner of Mamo and Kamehameha Ave., Hilo 6am–4pm * Honoka‘a Farmers’ Market Mamane St., Honoka‘a 7:30am–2pm

Nānāwale Community Market Nānāwale Community Longhouse 7am–2pm Maku‘u Farmers’ Market Kea‘au-Pāhoa Bypass Road 6am–2pm *

Sun–Mon, Thursday Hilo Farmers’ Market Corner of Mamo and Kamehameha Ave., Hilo 7am–4pm

Tuesday Hakalau Farmers’ Market and FoodShare Hakalau Veterans' Park, Old Māmalahoa Hwy. 3–5:30pm *

Wednesday Farmers’ Market Kalapana End of Kalapana-Kopoho Rd. Evenings 5–9pm

Kino‘ole Farmers’ Market Kino‘ole Shopping Plaza, 1990 Kino‘ole St., Hilo 7am–noon *

Hilo Farmers’ Market Corner of Mamo and Kamehameha Ave., Hilo 6am–4pm *

Outer SPACE Ho‘olaulea at Uncle Roberts Awa Club, Kalapana 8am–noon *

Friday

Pana‘ewa Farmers’ Market 363 Railroad Ave. (across from Home Depot), Hilo 7am–1pm

First Saturday of Every Month Orchidland Community Association Farmers’ Market Orchidland Dr. • 8am–1pm

Wednesday

Sunday

Waimea Mid-Week Farmer’s Market Pukalani Stables, 67-139 Pukalani Rd., Waimea 9am–3pm g

Hāmākua Harvest Farmers’ Market Hwy. 19 and Mamane St., Honoka‘a 9am–2pm * g

* EBT accepted • g Dog Friendly •

Laupāhoehoe Farmers’ Market Next to Minit Stop, Hwy. 19. 9am–1pm

Pana‘ewa Farmers’ Market 363 Railroad Ave., Hilo 11am–5pm

South Sat and Wed

Nā‘ālehu Farmers’ Market Ace Hardware lawn 8am–2pm

Sunday

Volcano Farmers' Market Cooper Center, 1000 Wright Rd., Volcano Village 6:30–10am *

Please send info and changes to michelle@keolamagazine.com

Celebrating a Long Time Advertiser businesses on the job, having been engaged in printing and retail at their own business for most of their adult lives. They have been self-taught in many areas by seeking out educational opportunities in classes, workshops and seminars, engaging staff members to help them learn new technology, and obtaining training from experts among their vendors. David says, “While neither of us has a formal education or college degrees, our real life experience has been the best teacher.” Both credit many outstanding staff members over the years who each have brought their own strengths and vision to the business. In the coming year, the Reeds want to focus on continuing to outreach within their community to provide opportunities for engagement with writers, artists, musicians, and people in general. A greater use of social media like Facebook and Instagram helps spread the word. Christine asserts, “Literacy among children is so important, as is learning through play. We have a mix of visitor and local customers. They range from parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles shopping for children, to visitors eager to know more about Hawai‘i, and local residents who want to learn more about the history, culture, environment, and natural history of our island home. “With the growth in Hawaiian language competence, Basically Books is uniquely positioned to support the expansion of ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i through the increasing number of resource materials being created. Through Petroglyph Press publishing we continue to select material and create new books about Hawaii. Our latest book, The Life and Times of Kamehameha, combines a collection of magazine articles written by William Westervelt between 1903–1925 with illustrations by the late Dietrich Varez, a beloved local artist. “We enjoy sharing our love for our home and guiding visitors to local sights. As new products arrive and new books are released we want our local residents to embrace the latest information. It is always good to have someone leave the store feeling like they have become part of the family.” Basically Books Petroglyph Press 1672 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo Basically Books: 808.961.0144 basicallybooks.com Petroglyph Press: 808.935.6006 petroglyphpress.com

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

David and Christine Reed have made their mutual love of books into a lifestyle. David’s mom, Frances, was the children’s librarian at Hilo Library from 1958–1968. His dad, Stephen, started Petroglyph Press publishing company in 1962, before the couple opened Book Gallery in 1968. Petroglyph Press is still located in the same downtown Hilo building 57 years later. David took over management of Petroglyph Press in 1974 when his parents “retired” for the first time, passing the press on to him and the bookstore to his sister. David and Christine became partners in the business when they married in 1976. After expanding Petroglyph Press into Old Town Printers and Stationers in 1979, the product and service mix evolved into a broader selection. David says, “It was a natural progression to open Basically Books in 1985, allowing us to focus on the books, maps, stationery, and gifts that were already a part of Old Town Printers. From the beginning our specialty was Hawai‘i-related products. When we relocated both businesses to a single larger location on Kamehameha Ave. in downtown Hilo in 1997, we dropped the name Old Town Printers and returned to simply being Petroglyph Press.” After their decades-long history in several Hilo locations, both businesses moved to their present location in July 2017. It has high visibility, is walkable from Banyan Drive, has a large covered lanai and its own parking lot—a big plus from the former downtown location. Basically Books specializes in Hawai‘i books, maps, gifts, and music. Christine says, “We carry one of Hawai‘i’s largest selections of Hawaiian music CDs and promote our local musicians. There are many local artisans and artists whose work we stock. We try to have a little something for everyone and encourage people to shop local.” The owners are especially proud of their Children’s Corner— it’s filled with books, stuffed animals, games, toys, and educational products. Christine continues, “Our niche of specializing in Hawai‘ithemed books expanded into a wide variety of gift items. Our tagline is ‘More than a bookstore…a gathering of things Hawaiian’. As a bookstore we place a high value on the sharing of information, including being a gathering place for authors and musicians at special events. We pride ourselves on our customer service and knowledge base in fulfilling our customers’ needs. Our focus on Hawai‘i allows us to represent many facets of life in the islands.” David and Christine basically learned how to operate the

MARKET PLACE

ACCREDITED BUYERS REPRESENTATIVE

Team Sold

Talk Story with an Advertiser

LAND SURVEYING

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

MARKETING HELP

REALTOR ®

Derinda Thatcher was raised in the Canadian Rockies and loves the mountains. She’s a country girl at heart, and though she loves each island for its unique features, Hawai‘i Island felt like the best fit for her, with its three big mountains, wide open spaces and 11 climate zones. Derinda says, “I moved here in 1990 and I still feel the same today—it was the right choice!” In addition to Derinda, Team Sold consists of two other smart, innovative, and talented women: Tina Kitchens, home staging and construction expert, and Jessica McCullum, social media/digital marketing expert. Each contributes their strengths, so all their clients benefit from their individual expertise. Derinda alone brings decades of experience as a real estate business professional, with extensive experience in the Hawai‘i Island market. Team Soldʻs goal is to help buyers and sellers realize their real estate dreams, and to get them started in their next adventure in life. Derinda says, “It is very rewarding to be a part of that every day and we so enjoy what we do.” Derinda was originally motivated to become a real estate professional during her own personal buying process in 1988. When she made the move to the island two years later, there was no work available in her previously chosen medical field so she decided to embark on a new career in real estate sales. Derinda shares, “I feel the most important quality to have in this business is high ethical standards. It also takes tenacity and dedication to make it through the rough times in our tropical market, and staying dedicated to the island through the ups and downs is challenging, yet can be rewarding. We’ve had volcanic activity, poor air quality due to vog, expansive growth in our community, and much more. No matter the challenge, the Big Island is home—no matter what.” Derinda is a “people person” and enjoys helping folks. Because real estate purchases are the usually the biggest purchase a person makes in life, having a professional who is looking out for your best interests can make the process rewarding and financially sound, ensuring their financial future. Whether it’s a $100,000 condo or a $2,000,000 home, Team Soldʻs clients receive first-class, five-star, VIP treatments. They aim to elevate your experience by lending a helping hand in all aspects of transitioning from one home to another, and they are proud to support their clients. Derinda Thatcher’s Team Sold Coldwell Banker—Island Properties 75-1000 Henry St., Kailua-Kona 808.960.3433 TeamSoldHawaii.com

Ocean Sports

MARKET PLACE TRAVEL AGENT

Talk Story with an Advertiser

Ocean Sports 69-275 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa, HI 96738 808.886.6666 HawaiiOceanSports.com

UPHOLSTERER

VETERINARY SERVICES

WHOLISTIC HEALTH

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Ocean Sports has been providing exceptional ocean adventures to residents and visitors of Hawai‘i Island since 1981, when Waikoloa Beach Resort was first being developed. They currently operate two legendary sailing catamarans, Seasmoke and Manu Iwa; a well-appointed power catamaran, Alala; and the glass bottom boat, GBB. These vessels take guests on award-winning snorkel, sunset, whale watch (in season), and exclusive cruises. They also offer beach toy rentals such as stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, hydrobikes, snorkel gear, boogie boards, even noodles and floats, plus beach day packages, and excursions from their hut at ‘Anaeho‘omalu Bay. In addition to all that, they have two retail outlets—one is at the Queens’ MarketPlace in Waikoloa and the other in Kawaihae. Ocean Sports is truly an ‘ohana. Their guests return over and over because, as they often comment, they feel they’re part of that ‘ohana. The staff at Ocean Sports is what makes it unique. It draws employees who are passionate about sharing their love for Hawai‘iʻs marine environment and that passion and respect comes through in everything they do. Interestingly, because Ocean Sports has been running continuously since 1981, they’ve been able to offer employment opportunities to some of the now-grown children of their earlier crews, and this new generation is sharing the passions of their parents! Ocean Sports’ guests join them from all over the world. There’s no typical age range or personality. The staff loves teaching them to snorkel, showing them what’s below the surface of the ocean through their Glass Bottom Boat windows, or showing them their first Humpback whale breach. One of the challenges for this type of business is the vagary of the weather. They won’t operate their cruises or beach activities in less-than-safe conditions, and that can certainly affect business from time to time. Owner Judith “Judi” Jennet says, “We feel really privileged that we’ve had the opportunity to live and share our passion with visitors and the local community all these years. As a locally owned and operated company, we live aloha, and we live to share aloha with each other and with our guests. We work hard to provide opportunities for growth for our employees, and our commitment to sharing our love for the ocean and Hawai‘i runs deep. Ocean Sports has always been about the friends we make, and the adventures we share. Come join us!”

Mahalo to our advertisers! By recognizing the value of Ke Ola Magazine for their marketing, they enable us to perpetuate and immortalize these important stories that deserve to be shared. Please visit them (in person, online, or by phone) and thank them for providing you this copy. Without them, Ke Ola Magazine would not exist.

Advertiser Index

Accomodations

Hawaiian Sanctuary Retreat Center Kïlauea Lodge & Restaurant Regency Hualalai, Retirement Living

74 17 40

Activities, Culture & Event

Aloha Theatre 69 Big Island Skydiving 36 East Hawaii Jazz & Blues Festival 61 FairWind Big Island Ocean Guides 65 HawaiiCon 26 Hawai‘i Island Festival of Birds 16 Hawaii Island Realtors Home Expo 79 Honoka‘a Chocolate Co. Farm Tour & Tasting 46 Hula Kai Snorkeling Adventures 64 ‘Imiloa Wayfinding Festival 97 Island Writing Workshops with Darien Gee 56 Kingsÿ Shops Cultural Festival 2 Kona Coffee Cultural Festival 68 Ocean Sports 25 Palace Theater 35 Queen Lili‘uokalani Birthday Festival 84 Traditional Tattoo Festival 28

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Art, Crafts & Jewelry

Akamai Art Supply Barbara Hanson Polymer Clay Artwork Colette's Custom Framing Dovetail Gallery & Design Glyph Art Gallery Harbor Gallery Holualoa Gallery Holualoa Ukulele Gallery Isaacs Art Center (at Hawaii Preparatory Academy) Ipu Arts Plus Kona Frame Shop Mountain Gold Jewelers One Gallery Pat Pearlman Designs RK Woods Shelly Batha Art Simple Elegance Gems Volcano Art Center

Automotive

Precision Auto Repair

12 50 12 50 50 22 50 50 82 50 90 73 35 50 80 28 40 72 68

Beauty, Health & Nutrition

CBD.Center 36 Colloidal Silver made on Hawai‘i Island 95 Connect & Thrive, Andrea Pro, CNVC 16 Ke Ola Magazine recognizes the use of the ‘okina [‘] or glottal stop, as one of the eight consonants of (modern) Hawaiian language; and the kahakō [ā] or macron (e.g., in place names of Hawai‘i such as Pāhoa). Ke Ola Magazine respects the individual use of these markings for names of organizations and businesses.

Discovery Screening, Breast Health Imaging Dr. Deborah Ardolf & Associates, Naturopath Dr. Eric Mizuba, Healthways Chiropractic Dr. Joan Greco, DDS, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery I Love Kigelia® Skin Care Serum Integrated Medicine Institute (IMI) Katherine Yano, Physical Therapy & Healing Arts Kearyÿs Massage, Keary Adamson, LMT Medicine Mama North Hawai‘i Community Hospital Reiki Healing Arts

13 53 14 84 60 52 78 46 60 6 88

Building, Construction & Home Services

Colette's Custom Framing 12 dlb & Associates 94 Hamakua Canvas Co, (Upholstery) 95 Hawaii Water Service Co. 90 Hawaii Electric Light Co. 46 Indich Collection Hawaiian Rugs 18 Kawika's Painting 17 Kona Frame Shop 90 Paradise Plants 21 RK Woods 80 SlumberWorld 24 Statements 27 Tai Lake Custom Furniture 53 TR's Property Shop, LLC 72 Uncle Tilo's Water Catchment Services 74 Water Works 88 Yurts of Hawai‘i 26

Business & Professional Services

Aloha Kona Kids 82 Associa Hawaii, Mahalo for Trade Show 34 JB (Brian) McDonald, EA, Accounting & Payroll 57 Hawai‘i Care Choices, formerly Hospice of Hilo 57 Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union 45 Island Writing Workshops with Darien Gee 56 Netcom 57 West Hawaii Assoc. Of Realtors Public Notice 89

Education

Mälamalama Waldorf School

Pets

Maika‘i Veterinary Clinic, LLC Keauhou Veterinary Hospital, LLC

Real Estate

Beverly Y. Crudele, RS, Clark Realty

741 95 66

Clark Realty Coldwell Banker—Daylum Properties Derinda Thatcher's Team Sold Jeanna Rimmer, RS, Hawai‘i Life Kelly Shaw, RS, Elite Pacific Kimi White, RB, Rainbow Properties Lava Rock Realty Paradise Found Realty Parks Realty LLC Team Nakanishi, Hawai‘i Life Windermere C and H Properties

Restaurants & Food

Ahualoa Farms Bee Boys Honey Shop Big Island Top Dogs Kailua Candy Company Kohala Grown Market Mauna Kea Tea Meridia at The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort Päpa‘aloa Country Store & Cafe Peaberry & Galette Standard Bakery Sushi Rock & Trio

Retail & Gifts

Ahualoa Farms Bee Boys Honey Shop Hawaii's Gift Baskets Hawaii Cigar & Ukulele Kadota Liquor Keauhou Shopping Center Kings' Shops Kona Commons Shopping Center Laupahoehoe Graphics Mana Cards Päpa‘aloa Country Store & Cafe Paradise Found Boutique Paradise Plants Petrogyph Press Puna Kamali‘i Flowers Queens' MarketPlace RK Woods Shops at Mauna Lani

Travel

A.S.K. About Travel Mokulele Airlines

48 78 56 80 100 53 76 94 74 90 30 62 68 52 91 36 73 3 12 20 69 36 62 68 78 36 60 42 2 47 6 75 12 69 21 75 75 8 80 99 95 29

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UA MAU KE EA O KA ‘ÄINA I KA PONO. The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness. [Its sustainability depends on doing what is right.] Proclamation by Kona-born King Kamehameha III in 1843. Later adopted as the Hawai‘i state motto.

Publisher, Marketing, Operations Barbara Garcia, 808.329.1711 x1, Barb@KeOlaMagazine.com

Editor

Barbara Garcia

Editorial Assistant Michelle Sandell HIEditor@KeOlaMagazine.com

Advertising, Business Development Marlene Zeiser, 808.765.7990, Marlene@KeOlaMagazine.com

Bookkeeping

Tanya Yamanaka, 808.329.1711 x 3, Info@KeOlaMagazine.com

Customer Service, Subscriptions

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KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Ka Puana - Closing Thoughts

Proverb 804. Mary Kawena Pukui. Olelo Noeau: Hawaiian Proverbs and Poetical Sayings. Bishop Museum Press.

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

Celebrating 15 Years as a Realtor!

Zillow 5 Star Agent

Kelly’s Hawaii Business Magazine Awards: • 2017 Top 100 Realtors To Do Business With, Transactions & Top Sales Honorable Mention • 2014, 2015 & 2018 Top 100 Transactions

KOMOHANA KAI

KeOlaMagazine.com | September-October 2019

3 Bedroom/2.5 Bath + Pool • Private Retreat in Kailua Kona $875,000 MLS 626704

KONA SUNSET VILLAS

2 Bedroom/2 Bath Updated Condo w/ Ocean Views $333,000 MLS 628253

KEAUHOU ESTATES

2 Bedroom/3.5 Bath + Pool Ocean Views in Gated Community $849,000 MLS 624337

SEASCAPE CONDOS

2 Bedroom/2 Bath Affordable Living in Kailua Kona $325,000 MLS 630888

“Kelly helped us sell a home on the island after we moved back to the mainland... She was amazing and responsive throughout the process and worked to help us even before we had signed a contract... She went 100 above and beyond what we would expect from any professional realtor. Thank you for being there Kelly, you are a blessing!”—Realtor.com review