Ka La, the student newspaper of Honolulu Community College, May 2017

KA LĀ

A Student Publication of the University of Hawai`i • Honolulu Community College • May 2017

Ka Lā photo by Chris Garcia

Davida Aila found a circle of friends and advisers at Honolulu Community College who helped carry her through to graduation.

Overcoming a dark past Welding student goes from inmate to graduate

By Chanelle Amoguis

Ka Lā staff writer

Davida Aila’s bright smile overshadows a personal past of drugs and hardship.

Proudly wearing a light green HonCC shirt, Aila, a female welder and a non-traditional student, has overcome unexpected trials in her life in order to finally graduate from HonCC. “I was in prison for a total of, with work furlough, about seven years,” Aila began. “I went to

mainland [for] everything. So during that time I was locked up - you know, staying busy was really important in there. You can either be one lazy bum and just stay in your cell or your cube 23 hours a day, or you could actually do something and I was one of those that did stuff. So I wanted a job in the facility. I chose to do that. I was part of the outside workline and that’s where I realized that I really enjoyed being outside and doing hard work.”

Aila first attended HonCC in 2014, a year after being officially

released from prison. Like many incoming freshmen, Aila had her fears attending college for the first time.

“I left high school with a point six G.P.A. I was scared I was going to be the oldest one there,” Aila said.

However, it was through joining programs and clubs on the HonCC campus that Aila was able to take the right path for the betterment of her future.

Through a close friend, Aila became greatly involved with programs such as CARE, TRiO-

SSS, Hulili ke Kukui Hawaiian Center, and Phi-Theta Kappa.

“It’s like in school, I surround myself with people who are like-minded, so [in the] CARE office, everybody’s like-minded; the overachievers [of] Phi Theta Kappa; scholars and I just carry on in the same way as I do out there," Aila said.

Despite Aila’s hardworking and positive attitude, she still went through many of the same struggles as other students.

Continued on Page 2

KaLā • Honolulu Community College, University of Hawai`i MAY 2017 2

Ka Lā, the campus newspaper of Honolulu Community College.

Ka Lā publishes 1,200 copies every month during the Spring and Fall Semesters Ka Lā and all campus publications are funded by student publication fees and advertising.

All materials published in Ka Lā may not be reproduced or reused without permission of the HonCC Student Media Board.

Ka Lā is published under the supervision of the HonCC Student Media Board: Chairperson Angelina Peralta Board members Angelina Perez Tiera Spencer Contributing Writers Larry Medina Christopher Garcia Steffanie Sobitz Chanelle Amoguis Ellamae Domondon

Contact information hcckala@gmail.com Student Media Board Building 2, Room 115 Phone: (808) 845-9213

Ka Lā invites letters to the editors, articles, events, advertising and classified ads. Ka La reserves the right to refuse or edit submissions.

Student editors and writers are responsible for content, which does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Honolulu CC administration, faculty

Ka Lā photo by Larry L . Medina

Davida Aila works on an overhead weld in the Welding Shop at Honolulu Community College.

Grad found help along the way Continued from Page 1

“Physics was the hardest. If you look at my transcripts, it’s all A’s, and then I get one spackling of maybe two B’s, right fabulous - and you see one C...Physics.

“Class was very difficult.

It felt like he (the instructor) was speaking another language to me, and I just scraped by with a C - dropped my GPA. You know, [I was] somebody with a .6 GPA to actually care about her GPA in college.”

Aila joined HonCC for its two-year welding program that allowed her to pursue a career that best suited her. Of the many majors offered to homebased HonCC students, 2.26% of students are part of the welding program.

“Somewhere along the way somebody told me I couldn’t. ‘Women no can do that, that’s a man’s job,’ ” Aila said. “When somebody tells me ‘no,’ I show

"Somewhere along the way

somebody told me I couldn’t:

‘Women no can do that, that’s a man’s job.’ When

somebody tells me ‘no,’ I show you, brah."

you, brah. It’s like, that mentally is, [but] it is what it is and that’s how my college began.”

For many community college students, the next step after graduation is to attend the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Honolulu CC was home to more than 3,500 students this semester, and about 600 of them are expected to graduate with degrees and certificates this Spring, with many of them moving on to further studies.

However for Davida Aila, graduation leads to an open path in the work field where she is currently deciding which job offer to take.

“It’s bittersweet,” said Aila with a far-off look on her face. “It’s bittersweet because I’ve become so accustomed with the campus and the faces, and by working with CARE being part of the program, I’ve created bonds. And so it’s kinda like I don’t get to see their faces anymore. But it

is exciting. This is the first time I’m ever graduating.”

When asked about her current situation in life, Aila said, “I feel pretty good. I feel that I’m in a place that could really help people who are in my situation as far as felons and drug addicts, mothers who left their children… I’m in a place where I think I’m in a good example where life can change. Definitely feel more mature when I started. I feel more motivated too about life.”

“When I started in 2014 I didn’t know what to expect. I didn’t know what was going on. And all of a sudden, “boom” you’re graduating. I was like, ‘what?’ I didn’t think about the process. I just knew where I wanted to go and I think me keeping my eye on that helped to pull me through.”

KaLĀ • Honolulu Community College, University of Hawai`i

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May 2017

Taking college into high schools

By Ellamae Domondon Special to Ka Lā

Honolulu Community College offers Running Start and Early College classes that allow high school students to earn credits that go toward their college degrees -- and in some cases they can do it right in their own high school.

“Having these early college classes provides a great opportunity for high school students to get college credits and high school credits,” said Regan Honda, Farrington’s college career counselor.

“It’s convenient, instead of going to the college, the college comes here.”

“Having these Early College or Dual Enrollment classes as they are now referred to is quite beneficial. Students are given a chance to get a head start in college as well receive credit for English both in high school and college simultaneously. College classes challenge students and prepare them for life on a college campus,” said Brenda Coston, early college professor.

Early college is one of the programs that students can qualify for while still in high school. The classes are taken on the school’s campus, and are taught by college professors or qualified high school teachers. There are multiple ways to pay for these classes: the student may pay, the school, or scholarships.

The class “helps me finish up getting my history credits, and it also prepares you for how college will be like. I do think taking these classes will help me succeed,” said Nathan Paulino, junior at Farrington, who is currently taking an HonCC sociology class.

The Running Start program provides the opportunity for students to take classes on a college campus, giving students the experience of studying on a college

At Farrington High School, above, and other campuses around the state, hundreds of students are earning early credit toward their college education in several different programs.

"Students are given a chance to get a head start in college as well receive credit for English both in high school and college simultaneously."

Brenda Coston Honolulu CC English Instructor campus before graduating. These classes are taught by the college professors and the classes that are offered are posted on the UH catalog and their website. “With

running start and with early college classes they really benefit students because they can gain a lot of knowledge over a short period of time. Taking these courses also

of Hawaiiʻs best seafood restaurants.

“Ahi and Vegetable is a good shop to eat at because when you sit down at a table, it’s such a comfortable table setting. It also has good tasting food which brings everyone to enjoy their meals,” said Ashlee Keanaaina, a sophomore at Kamehameha.

Prices are reasonable for the quality that you receive. The ahi and vegetable mix on top of salad costs $10, and so does the ahi bowl with rice. The place also offers a variation of bentos, some with just

fish, some with different kinds of meats, and some that offer both.

Those cost $12, including a side of their flavorful miso soup. To feed larger crowds for parties, or any other big events, they also sell platter versions of their specialties ranging from $40- $60.

“The prices are really good considering how much portion they give. For $10 you can get a lot of ahi and it also comes with miso soup, which is always a plus,” Keanaaina said.

The spacious shop has lots of table space, but everything on the

give you the experience of what college work and having a professor is like,” said Megan Mcmillin, junior at FHS. “The courses are fun and interesting to take.”

For Fall 2017, Farrington will now offer 6 early college classes on campus. Those classes being, Speech 151 (2 sections), World History 151, English 100, Psychology 100, and Hawaiian Studies 281.

These classes are paid by a three- year grant, ending as of this year.

“We are looking into find different ways to fund the programs, so that we can continue to have these available,” Honda said.

Ellamae Domondon is a junior at Farrington High School.

Ahi & Vegetable: Healthy eating close to campus

By Ellamae Domondon Special to Ka Lā

The Ahi & Vegetable restaurant, located on Dillingham Boulevard just a couple of blocks from campus, is a hidden gem for faculty and students looking for a healthy meal.

The restaurant is Japanese inspired and serves various dishes with ahi, vegetables, tuna, salmon, and many other seafoods.

The original location in Downtown Honolulu has been open for over 10 years, and has become one

menu can be made to go for those who donʻt have time to linger.

The store is located at Kapalama Shopping Center, on 1210 Dillingham Blvd, It is open 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. m- 10 weekdays and weekends. making it easily accessible for the public.

Parking is readily available for all customers, abundant enough not only for Ahi & Vegetable, but also for all the surrounding shops.

Also while enjoying a meal there, a television is available for some entertainment.

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May 2017

Library event celebrates Persian links

By Steffanie Sobitz Ka Lā staff writer

This past March, the school held a week of activities to expose students to different cultures.

A panel, Bridging Persia: There & then, Here & Now, Tomorrow, was one of the main events attended by students, staff, and faculty.

In celebration of the Persian New Year, Norwuz, four presenters shared their own unique experiences like living and working in Iran, as well as working with Islamic art.

The panelists stressed the importance of travel to a foreign land in regards to one’s education, career and decision making. And there are many opportunities for college students in Hawaiʻi to experience life and studying abroad. For community college students there are several scholarships offered, including the Honda Scholarship for International Study, which offers up to $8,000 to study anywhere in the world, and Monbukagakusho Scholarship, which awards one year of intensive Japanese language study followed by two years at a specialized training college in Japan.

“My favorite part of the event

This Haft-Seen is a tabletop arrangement of symbolic items traditionally displayed at Nowruz, the Iranian new year. was listening to Tom Klobe talk about the lasting relationships he made while in the Peace Corps in Iran,” said event volunteer Genevieve Avilla.

“It stuck with me that those relationships he made back then are still with him today. It really touched my heart, the impact he made.” Avilla added.

Klobe, professor emeritus at the University of Hawaiʻi and author of A Young American in Iran spoke about his experience in the Peace Corps.

He joined the organization

days after President Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, and volunteered in community development.

“He was so young when he joined the Peace Corps, and how he learned the language and culture so fast and was accepted by the local community,” attendee Darrel Agno said. “It was incredible to learn that something he did long ago was still such a big part of his life today,” he said.

Panelists also shared ideas of how to maintain & share your traditional culture.

Persian language teacher and artist, Azadeh Nikou, set up a traditional Norwuz table, and explained the significance of each item. Norwuz marks the first day of spring and the new year in Iran.

Deborah Pope, founding director of Shangri La, Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art spoke about her journey into Persian art and culture, and inspired others to be open to any and all opportunities that arise.

Maseeh Ganjali, a doctoral student at Mānoa and HonCC alumni, started his presentation with a mesmerizing chant of the National Epic of Persia, and discussed the curves in the music and architecture of the Islamic world.

“For me, it was my first introduction to the culture, and it made me want to learn more,” said Agno.

The event was sponsored by Honolulu CC Library with grant support from UHCC Honda International Opportunities Fund, and was set up by HonCC librarian, Carol Hasegawa.

For more information about study abroad programs and scholarships, visit http://www.studyabroad.hawaii. edu/students/resources/.

Get the facts

Help wanted The Student Media Board is looking for a student to manage our website, www.thekala.net, and social media content in the upcoming school year.

Journalism 205, News Writing There is nothing fake* about it *Meets requirements for Writing Intensive & Hawaii Ethics classes Online: Summer & Fall 2017 Honolulu Community College

Wordpress and Adobe experience preferred.

Pay starts at $10 per hour.

If interested, stop by the Student Media Board office, 2-115, or email us at hcckala@gmail.com

KaLā • Honolulu Community College, University of Hawai`i MAY 2017 5

O ke kahua mamua, mahope ke kūkulu Learn all you can and then practice

Commencement

2017

JOIN US IN HONORING OUR GRADUATES Waikīkī Shell | Friday, May 12, 2017 | 6:00 pm

KaLĀ • Honolulu Community College, University of Hawai`i

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May 2017

Spring 2017 graduates

A

Abad, Jacquelyn Abe, Yosuke Abendanio, Arnel Abraham, Bronson Abregano, Ryan Acedilla, Keana Aceret, Douglas Acosta, Gerald Acosta, Jeremy Acosta, Rowel Adams, Jerry Adams, Maxwell Adviento, Aulii Aga, Galutau Agapay, Brandon Agaran, Devin Agena, Mandee Ann Aguon, Joseph Agustin, Mario Aila, Davida Akaka, Ariana Akau, Wallace Akiu, Ryse Alcantra, Isaiah Alconcel, Vance Alkarim, Muhammad Alterado, Shayrena Gene Alvarado, David Amian, Jarren Amoguis, Chanelle Amuro, Dustin Amuro, Randon An, Bruce Ancheta, Vincent Andallo, Elvie Andaya-Batalona, Russell Anderson, Isaac Andrade, Aaron Anes-Birano, Arthur Anguay, Amy Anzai, Angela Aoki, Christian Apostadiro, Shannen Aragon, Lawrence Arakaki, Robert Arakawa, Adam Arakawa, Marcus Arcano, Anthony Arizabal, Cheryl Arrogante, Kristan Ayson, Shannon

B

Bacani, Emmanuel Bacarro, Jenny Bade, Jennifer Baduria, Donald Bagay, Emerald Baguso, Renee Bailey, Michelle Balangue, Christian Balasico, Rowell Balauro, Kyle Balbas, Nelson Balbirona, Kyle Balisacan, Jonathan Bantolina, Timmy Baoit, Charvin Jhio Barao, Gerry Barayuga, John Barayuga, Luke Barbasa, John Vincent Barboza, Rachel Barino, Jayleen Baron, Adam Barrios, Amador Jonah Barry, Robert Barsatan, Malcolm

Automotive Mechanics Technology Bartels, Melanie Bartolome, Dylan Basuel, Micah Batangan, Kelsey Batangan, Ryan Batara, Christine Joy Battaglia, Matthew Batulayan, Matthew Bauzon, Sheinna Bechayda, Brian Beech, John-Paul Benito, Colby Bento, Cherie Bernaldez, William Patrick Betancourt, Aaron Bilan, Jennifer Black, April Divine Blackman, Dominick Bodinson, Ann Bolibol, Mark Jonel Bonilla, Cerwin Bordaje, Ulysses Borden, Frank Bosque, Brooke Boucher, Francis Branigan, Ryan Bright, Jesse Briones, Marino Brown, Jerry Burkhart, Tyler Butay, Christiana Butler, Deoneco

C

Cabbab, Marc Caberto, Kekoa Cabo, Benny Cabral, Patrick Cabrera, Evian Cabreros, Raffy Cabus, Christopher Cacas, Darylene Cacpal, Karen Cadavona, Brandon Cadiz, Isaiah Calapit, Al Jim Calaro, Angelica Calivoso, Mariejoy Melin Calivoso, Melvin Camou, Matthew Campbell, Christopher Canales Andrade, Danny

Canida, Brent Caraang, Michael Caraulia, Shayla Carbillon, Brandon James Carmona Martinez, Sara Cary, Chase Cary, Mckenna Castillo, Latisha Castillo, Shyia Castro, Mercedez Cayetano-Tamashiro, Thomas Cenence, Ralph Chan, Jacky Chang, Arthur Chang, Ashlyn Chang, Ethan Chang, Randolph Chanthanam, Jonathan Chapa, Joshua Chau, Thomas Chee, Dara Chen, Carlos Cheng, Man Ching, Andrew Chinhui, Rattasorn Chiu, Nathan Cho, Chantelle-Leigh Choi, Tony Chun, Mitchell Chun Fat-Ardren, Dalynn Chvosta, Jamie Clark, Clyde Colon-Valentin, Carlos Condon, Gerard Condon, Ronald Cook, Wesley Corpuz, Riki Corrales, John Lester Correa, Patricia Costa, Joshua Costa, Tyler Cristobal, Rachel Crum, Shawna Cuetara-Higa, Arcoiris Culp, Cynthia

D

D'Araujo, Jonathan Dahlquist, Luke Danganan, Raymart Dao, Andy Dao, Pen

Davenport, Shawn Davidson, Marissa Davidson, Tiana Davis, Alexander De Guzman Pacheco, Allan de Jesus Morales, Brian de La Cruz, Mark John De Leon, Janielle Grace De Vera, Jacob Decker, Meghan Del Rosario, Angelo Dela Cruz, Douglas Dela Cruz, Jarred Dela Cruz, Jason Ellis Delos Reyes, Ryan DeLuna, Jordan Diep, Angel Distajo, Azariah Doan, Ha Domingo, Wendilee Dudoit, Kalei Dugam, Mark Dumaran, Marcus Dumaslan, Brian Joel Dunhour, Justi Dunn, Jared

E

Ebora, Ebenezer Echarri, Jesus Echavaria, Sean Edrada, Tyler Elisala, Russell Enomoto, Kevin Era, Naomi Espaniola, Don Espinosa, Valerian Espiritu, Carlo Etrata, Von Eric

F

Fagarang, Alyssa Joyce Fagarang, Isaiah Fasi, Jordan Feato, Leroy Feliciano, Shayne Felix, Matthew Felizco, Michael Fermahin, Bradley Fernandez, Aaron Jon

KaLĀ • Honolulu Community College, University of Hawai`i

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May 2017

Spring 2017 graduates Kim, Sean Kim, Sue Jung Kim, Tracy Kimoto, Lianne Kinoshita, Carey Kiyuna, Celina Kiyuna, Krystal Knight, Alyssa Kobashigawa, Mackay Kobayashi, Lyndee Koizumi, Jordeen Kojima, Arisa Koki-Yasunaga, Tavin Kolo, Mickie Krebs, Corey Kuaana, Rachel Kuahine, Brysson Kuan, Joel Kubota, Daniel Kuhn, Joshua Kuranishi, Ryan Kuromoto, Jason Kusano, Kelvin Kuwahara, Ashley Kuwamura, Keane Kuwazaki, Ryan

Fernandez, Micah Fields, Ruby Figueroa, Jacob Flores, Anthony Flores-Massey, JeTaime Fo, Jon-Kristo Foltz, KeanuF Fong, Daniel Foo-Mitsunaga, Isaiah Foster, David Fraser, Titilua Fruean, Martin Fruean, Martin Frye, Scott Fuentes, Kevin Fuiava, Osana Fujimoto, Jonathan Fujimura, Emily Fujishige, Sean Fukata, Lindsay Fukino, Sean Fukuda, Jordan Fung, Harvey

G

Galindo, Ronald Galzote, Warren Gamiao, Jayson Ganiron, Chaika Ganitano, Aljay Ganitano, JayDean Ganitano, Mark Neil Anthony Gapusan-Young, Naumu Garces, Dawn Garcia, Alfonso Garcia, Brendalis Garcia, Jacob Garcia, Jeremy Garcia, Kimberly Garcia, Thomas Antonio Garo, Justin Gaston, Rodney Geise, Taylor Gentry, Sharayah Geonzon, Dylan Kyle Geronimo, Gerry Gessow, Gloria Gima, Joshua Ginoza, Nicole Go, Taralyn Gomez, Po'okela Gomez-Young, Cristina Goodknecht, Cheryl Goodlander, Matthew Gose, Justin Gosiaco, Trevor Gotch, Jessica Gouveia, Christopher Goya, Fred Grace, Evan Granciosa, Nicole Patria Green, Chad Grindle, Jon-Michael Grupen, David Guarin, Jesse Gudoy, Arnold Gueso, Janie Guillermo, John Michael Guinto, Nicole Guo, Feifei

H

Ha, Hien Ha, Thornton Hadap, Nicholas Haina, Keanu Hall, Alex Hall, William Hamada, Shelby Hamamoto, Grant Hamilton-Oppennee, Heather

Auto Body Repair and Painting Han, Joanna Hatada, Blake Hatanaka, Daiki Hatori, Puanani Hayworth, Joshua Daniel Hazel, Joshua Henrickson, Gary Hernandez, Gregory Higa, Brandon Higa, Derrick Higa, Karen Higa, Troy Hinokuma, Robert Hipol, Danielle Hirahara, Jared Hiranaga, Angela Ho, Erik Ho, James Hoopai, Ronald Horikawa, Chase Horn, Daylen Houseworth, Alexzandrea Howe, Seda Howell, Pierce Hsu, David Hu, Easton Hudgens, Ikaika Hughes, James Hutcheson, Robert Hutchins, Charie

I

Iaea, John-David Iese, Eleazar Iha, Shari Iida, Darrick Iman, Diane Inayoshi, Keisuke Infante, Brandon Ipalari, Ethylene Rose Ishiki, Holly Ishitani, Matthew Isidro, Leoneil Isidro, Ricky James Isono, Evan Iwamoto, Brett

J

Jacob, Christina Jale, Anthony James, Ian

Jandoc, Ryan Javier, Arbela Jeffrey, Kaleo Jensen, Janice Jinbo, Blake Jodar, Teresa Marie Johnson, Ian Johnson, Lonna Jose, Jomar Jovellanos, Ma Antonette Joven, Jean Derrick Julian, Gilbert

K

Kaai, Kimberly Kaai, Tasha Kaaihue, Daniel Kaapana, George Kaeka, Gary Kahalehau, Kahaokamoku Kahookele, Jarrett Kahoonei, Raymond Kaio, Hendrick Kaio Campbell, Louis Kaiura, Hanaukauanuipuanani Kalai-Bishaw, Isaiah Kalamau, Eddianne Kalili, Kourtney Kalima-Moses, AJ Kam, Michelle Kamau, Benjamin Kamau, Mary Kaminaga, Ashley Kapololu, Adam Kashiwamura, Cheryl Ann Kauka, Hans Kauwalu Key, Micki Kauweloa, Leianne Kawahara, Marcus Kawai, Travis Kawamura, Scott Kawanishi, Nathan Kawatomari, Kyle Kekaula, Jay Kekoa, Charisse Keliiholokai, Jennifer Keuma, Samara Khounsourath, Nathan Kiethanom, Marisa Kim, Brian Kim, Jerry Kim, Kevin

L

Lacerdo, Waika Lam Yuen, Margaret Lamosao, Ben Brian Lancaster, Katrina Landford, Erin Langaman, Micah Lapena, Valentin Lau, Aaron Lau, Evan Lau, Fathima Lau, Scott Lauser, DJ Lee, Brandon Lee, Jack Lee, Matthew Lefotu, Faasaosao Legatasia, Leilani Lenwai, Nohealani Leslie, Samuel Lessary, Frank Lewis, Song Hye Li, Hua Yong Li, Joanna Li, Li Shan Li, ZhiDi Linsangan, Joseph Loftin, Jaslyn Loo, Raymond Lopez, David Lou, Lezli Low, Erin Lowe, Andrew Lucas, Jorissa Lucas, Scott Lum, Chad Lum, Jasmine Lum, Lori-Ann Luna Valencia, Jorge Luo, Alvin Luu, Loc

M

Ma, Tarin Macabeo Spahn, Nicholas Machado, Marlana Macrae-Smith, Tyler Madlangbayan, Ken Mark Maeshiro, Brandon Mai, Weihang Makaipo, Kevin Makiya, Tiffany Malczon, Nathaniel Man, Ellen

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May 2017

Spring 2017 graduates Manfredi, Mana Mansinon, Kristen Mantanona, Nathan Manuel, Princess Jay Manues, Cody Manzano, Carl Michael Mapa, Gavin Marajas, Sydney Marino Danuser, Sandra Marr, Claudia Martin, Leslie Masatsugu, Jay Massaro, Gregory Masuda, Justin Mateo, Jefferson Mathes, Wayne Matias, Terilee Matsumoto, Dana Matsumura, Casey Matsuo, Dane Matsuoka, Alan Matsuoka, Chad Matsushima, Joey Matsuura, Blake Mattos, Ryan Maze Alvarez, Thomas McAllister, Tiare Mccaw, Garrett McClain, Justin McCready, Parker McDermott, Jose Mcgee, Jasmyne McMillan, Michael Medina, Kristin Megrdichian, Anuhea Mercado, Joshua Mercado, Randall Merry, Kelsi Meyer, Brendan Migita, Melissa-Ann Mihara, Chad Mikel, Jerome Israel Mirza, Omar Mitsunaga, Bryan Mitte, Andrew Miu, Tommy Miyake, Justin Miyasato, Jason Miyashiro, Robert Montgomery-Hartley, Alexandra Montilliano, Brittany Morales, Helena Rose Morales Maldonado, Anibal Moriwaki, Alyson Mose, Donna-Richardia Mullen, Tracy Muramoto, Tyler Muraoka, Neal

N

Nagai, Travis Nagasako, Teruo Nakagawa, Jasen Nakagawa, Myles Nakagawa, Shayne Nakahara, Kyle Nakamura, Joshua Nakanishi, Jamy Nakasono, Ali Nakasono, Kira Nakayama, Dustin Naki, Jazmine Namiki, Shea Namuo, Nohealani Namuo, Sunday-Lee Nansen, Daniel Napuunoa, Alamea Narita, Isaac Nascimento, Dalton Neri, Romel Nerurkar, Onkar Neves, Logan Nghiem, Hung Ngo, Kevin

Carpentry Technology Nguyen, Jonathan Nguyen, Minh Nguyen, Thomas Nielson, Jathan Nieto, Brendan Nihoa, James Nii, Darren Nitta, Andrew Nobori, Dillon Nobriga, Vance Nonaka, Brandon Norris, Justin

O

Ocampo, Kathleen Ogata, Evan Ogawa, Blake Ogawa, Landon Ogawa, Tamilyn Oho-Watt, Amber Oili, Sterling Oka, Garret Okikawa, Marc Okimura, Reeve Olegario, Juan Carlos Oloroso, Girlie Omura, Charmaine Omuro, Taylor On, Tai Onaga, Kristine Ono, Shannon Ontai, Lance Onuma, Ryan Orta, Sheldon John Oshiro, Kyle Oshiro, Michael Oshiro, Naomi Osurman, Chantel

P

Pacer, Jaier Jan Pacheco, Madison Pacupac, Chase Padaca, John Ralp Padilla, Fatima Joy Pagdilao, Ronson Paguirigan, Rex Paguirigan, Rocky Pajarillo, David Pakele, Raynie Pammit, Bradley Ryan Panen, Eduard

Pang, Jarrett Pangilinan, Alexis Pantohan, Jarin Pantohan, Travis Pao, Willy Park, Jennifer Parkhurst, Brady Parrow, David Pascua, Janica Marie Pascual, Shauna Pasion, Gaylen Patnude, Erik Patoc, Kaiponohea Pavao, Blaze Peacock, Matthew Pelton, Richard Peneku, Joseph Peynado, Sonia Piena, Kekaimalu Pieper Remigio, James Nicholas Pila-Newville, Lanipuakea Pine, Kaleo Pojas, Jessica Ponce, Bradley Pongklub, Somjait Popa, Kylie Popa, Raycine Potts, Marissa Pruett, Alika Puchalski, Ian Puesta, Edward

Q

Qalo, Shiloh Qu, Simeng Quach, Peter Quartero, Donovan Quiban, Brandon Quitazol, Jordan

R

Rabago, Victoria Rabanal, Carlito Radke, Sarah Ragsdale, Keala Ramirez, Bobbie Ramos, Jerome Ramsey, Nicholas Ranchez-Langit, Shai-lynn Randazzo, Joshua Ranstead, Nathan Rapoza, Danielle

Reddy, Arthi Reid, Enoa Gabriel Reinante, Kevin Reinante, Macky Rellesiva, Kris Remmers, William Respicio Sabanal, Tristan Resture, Cooper Resurreccion, Samuel Revilla, Sean Michael Reyes, Alexander Reyes, Jeffrey Bryan Reyes Tungpalan, Ryan Reyna, Stephania Rezents, Anzinetti Ricafort, Timothy Rios Quinones, Juan Roback, Puuwaialoha Robb, Leilani Rodrigues, Joshlyn Rodriguez, Eddie Rofoli, Ryan Rogers, Lowen Roque, Jerrold Rosada, Jalyn Rowe, Kaylee Rowland, Lucas Rzonca, Kyle

S

Sakumoto, Lenn Salima Domen, Sheirah Saloricman, Caitlyn Saludares, Rosanne Salvani, Mana'Olana Sambajon, Rafael Sanders, Daniel Sandobal, Jenna Sandobal, Kalin Santana, Kianna Santiago, Chaison Santos, Avery Santos, Jordan Santos, Micah Sarisky, Brendon Sarmiento, Christina Sasaki, Brandi Sasaki, Brandy Sasan, Samantha Sato, Jordan Saysiry, James Schiel, Sheila Scholl, Jacob Sellers, Kimberlin

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May 2017

Spring 2017 graduates

Sera, Derek Sharp, Allison Shigetani, Amanda Shinn, Jaryn Shinsato, Luke Shinto, Jonathen Shiraishi, Tracy Shook, Jerome Sibulao, Gil Bryan Siereveld, Catherine Silva, Megan Simeona, Blake Simon Ganti, Sterling Sinco, Ryan Sing Chow, Waylen Smith, Ashley Smith, Ludmilla Smith, Tymeka Smith, Wessten Soares, Shannon Sobitz, Steffanie Somerset, Justin Sonezuka, Mari Sonoda, Brandy Souza, Cody Souza, John Souza, Scott Soyangco, Adonijah Soyangco, Jezer Spain, Rachel Spallone, Wendy Spencer, Christopher Spencer, Paul Sposato, James Stakes, Tabby-Lynn Stephenson, Roni Lin Stoltz, Justin Stone, David Suan, Grady Suehiro, Roshan Sugihara, Matthew Sugihara, Raymond Sugiura, Brandon Sumida, Jordan Suzuki, Eric Suzuki, Reese Swick, Colin Synn, Jeffrey Szarmes, Charlotte

T

Taamilo, Mayci Tabalanza, Liza Tabisola, Structin Tagaca, Jeano Taguchi, Ken Taheny, Stephen Taitague, Aaron Tajas, Anthony Tajima, Russell Takamiya, Evan Takehara, Sean Takushi, Jeffrey Talasinga, Tavite Tali, Timothy Tanaka, Bryan Tandal, Kyler Tanno, Shayla Tanoue, Brandon Taraya, Jacob Tavares, Raven Tedrow, Steven Teem, Duane Tejada, Matthew Templo, Shirley Ann Terasako, Kori Ann Terrado, Rovi Mae Teshima, Bryan Tesoro-Montero, Jaydinel Tierra, Aimee Joy Togami, Ryan Togami, Trevor Tolentino, Aprille Tomari, Shino Toner, John Torikawa-Domingo, Jason Torrijos, Antonio Jose Tran, Danny Tran, Dennis Tran, John Tran, Mong Thu Trilles, Tangi Marie Trinidad, Aaron Tsuneda, Miki Ann Tsutsui, Kevin Tubbali, Katie Tucker, Saphire Tuifanu, Jo Ann

Ho'olaule'a preparations Tupua, Dayden Tyau, Jake Tyler, Kelvin

U

Uchida, Samantha Uda, Liane Uejo, Kristi Lynn Uemoto, Kekuailohia Unabia, Michelle Unciano, Kevin Ursua, Mathew Utleg, Allen Jeffrey Uyehara, Dwayne Uyema, Cindy

V

Vega, Gabrielle Viernes, Alan James Viernes, Charmaine Claire Vierra, Karana Villa, Edmar Villanueva, Dennis Villanueva, Gareth Viloria, Jaclyn Vincent, Precious Visitacion, Mario

W

Wade, Lokahi Wakinekona, Austin Walker, Sheila Wallenhorst, Tadaji Wang, Andrew Wang, Mike Watanabe, Matt Watanabe, Quintin Watson, Dodge Watson, Tyanne Watts, Alicia Wauke, Kelsie Weaver, Justin

Weinerth, Brandon Weinstein, Samuel Wertzbaugher, Gabrielle Wilcox, Joanne Williams, Nakemiah Williams, Thomas Wolf, Kristina Wong, Christopher Wong, Jennifer Wong, Kurt Wong, Meiyi Wong, Nicholas Wong, Reyan Wong, Timothy Worrell, Shaun

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Yabui, Kristy Yam-Lum, Kade Yamada, Mona Yamamoto, Devon Yamamoto, Ian Yamamoto, Kory Yamanaka, Garret Yamasaki, Brandi Yamashita, Brad Yamashita, Brandon Yanagihara, Renee Yang, Yingyin Yap, John Yap, Ryan Yasui, Grant Yoo, Casey Yorke, Stephen Young, Chanel Young, Michelle Yuen, Jordan

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Zapara, Troy Zhang, Ke Lu

KaLĀ • Honolulu Community College, University of Hawai`i

10

May 2017

Graduates can get a deal on new cars

General Motors, which includes the Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC nameplates, offers a near-identical program. A buyer can finance in-house through GM Financial, or any financial institution. There are several GM dealerships in the Honolulu area, including Cutter, JN, ServCo, and Honolulu GMC. Google "GM College Discount."

By Larry L. Medina Ka Lā staff writer

You are just about to graduate, and maybe, you landed a new job and want a new set of wheels to go with it.

With that new HonCC degree in hand, your next car purchase (for some, your first car purchase) can be easy, and a little more affordable, with automakers offering incentives and special deals to college grads.

All the major automakers in Hawaiʻi, including Ford, GM, Toyota, Hyundai, Nissan, and Honda, offer incentives and discounts for college graduates. Automakers not only help with price discounts, but also with financing, which is a benefit to young grads who haven't much credit built up.

And buying a car is a great way for someone to build good credit, which can lead to bigger, future purchases, like a home, or a larger personal loan to finance future education.

Who's Offering What?

Nissan has a College Grad Program, which gives a grad a $5001,000 discount along with rebates and other incentives.

Buyers must have graduated within the past 24 months (or will graduate within the next six), and provide proof of current or future employment that will begin within 90 days of the vehicle purchase.

Nissan also offers a special on

OK, What's the Catch?

If youʻre current car is a clunker, maybe itʻs time to check out the discounts that car dealers offer to recent graduates. electric cars for UH grads, giving Ford not only offers incentives a $1,000 discount on its all-electric to college grads, but to current colLEAF through their College LEAF lege students, as well, so you don't Vehicle Purchase Program. The want to wait until graduation to closest dealer is New City Nissan get a car. Both grads and current on North King Street. students are eligible for a $500 Hyundai offers a similar proincentive, along with discounted gram for grads, giving $400 finance rates through their intoward the purchase or lease of a house Ford Credit whether somenew vehicle. Hyundai says grads one decides to buy or lease. This is should have "no adverse credit in addition to any other offers, rehistory" if financing through their bates or incentives. Ford does state dealers. There's a Tony Hyundai that this program only applies to on South Beretania Street/ certain vehicle models, so prospecToyota offers a larger incentive tive buyers should inquire. of $750. Its program is limited Local dealers include Windward to certain models, and must be Ford and Cutter Ford. Honolulu through its in-house financing.

Ford is the closest to HonCC, just Same goes for Honda, with a a few minutes away on North lesser $500 incentive.

King Street.

With all the incentive programs outlined above, the deals only apply to recent college grads. There is no age restriction (that would be discrimination) so you can be a 60- year-old grad and still take advantage of these deals. Some automakers will offer these incentives only if you finance through their in-house finance department.

This all doesn't mean you can't ask if there's other discounts or finance options available to a new grad. There may be special programs or discounts given to your particular field or background, say, if you majored in Fire Science (firefighting), Criminal Justice; if you're a war veteran; or if you have a disability.

Financing a new car is typically a young grad's first major purchase, which helps toward building good credit, and who doesn't want that? And you drive away in a new car, a visible confirmation of your academic achievement that, on some level, says you "made it."

Maui's lavender farm is a tranquil getaway

By Steffanie Sobitz Ka Lā staff writer

If you're planning a trip to Maui anytime soon, you probably are including a sunrise visit to Hale'akalā.

But that trip wouldn't be complete without a visit to Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, which is halfway down the mountain, at about 4,000 feet above sea level.

The farm, a great place to get away from everything for a couple of hours, offers private or large group guided tours of its flowered grounds, both walking as well as cart tours for anyone hoping to learn about the different types of lavender, including its properties, benefits, and uses.

Or you can just walk through the grounds on your own.

The path snakes through the unique flowering plants in the garden and ends back at the gift shop.

Sights at the Ali'i Kula Lavender farm range from a three-horned lizard hiding in the lavender to a statue sitting upright in the grass.

Dozens of varieties of succulents line the beginning of the pathway, along with curvy, sculptured trees. One large tree to the right welcomes visitors with giant, yellow and orange hanging blooms that look like golden paper bells blowing in the breeze.

“I really liked the big yellow flowers hanging in one of the trees; someone said it was very poisonous,” said Edlynne HarrelSanchez.

There are flowers that look like sponges with spikes, ones that look like giant red, pink and

purple artichokes. The colors and textures one can find in this garden are endless, and some plant species are only found on this small patch of land, on the side of a mountain, on an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

The atmosphere is relaxing and invigorating at the same time. After the tour, one can venture past gently flowing fountains and carefully groomed plants back into the gift shop.

Inside the gift shop there are samples of lavender honey and jams, lavender brownies, shortbread cookies, and other sweet treats. There are also essential oils, soaps, satchels, balms, and salves. There is an outdoor seating and eating area where everyone can enjoy warm treats like lavender coffee and tea, or snacks like lavender lemonade and scones.

KaLĀ • Honolulu Community College, University of Hawai`i

Michael Mendoza aka DJ Curious

"Always take risks...if you’re a passive person,you’ll always stay [the same].”

""""

Bob Simons

Worked at McDonald's

"Maintain strong morals, values, and principles ... donʻt fuck up."

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May 2017

Courtney Taylor

Ron Fenny

"Donʻt let anyone tell you what your passion is going to be."

" Get a good job. Be a doctor or something. And stay away from married women."

Homeless

Voice actress

What's the best advice you ever received and what would you tell people who are graduating now?

Myra Sheldon Bartender

"You have to be nice to people - what you give is what you get"

Asked by Chris Garcia "

Mayumi Hirata

Japanese language instructor

" Wake up early...a lot of good

things happen in the morning."

Gigi Glover: Math tutor

"Celebrate what you’ve accomplished and recognized that you’ve achieved something... let people give you presents."

Robert Silva

Auto technology instructor

"E lawe i ke aʻo mālama, a e ʻoi mau ka naʻauao."

(He who takes his teachings and applies them increases his knowledge.)

KaLĀ • Honolulu Community College, University of Hawai`i

12

May 2017

Ka LĀ photos by Larry Medina and Christopher Garcia

Work on this yearʻs Hoʻolauleʻa started months ago, built into a quiet fury in the days before the end, and ended with hundreds of faculty, staff, and students coming together to enjoy remarkable day of celebrating the school and culture.

Hoʻolauleʻa at HonCC

By Christopher Garcia Ka Lā staff writer

This year’s Ho’olaule’a filled HonCC with good vibes.

It was a day of the campus coming together, working to build a day of aloha for all to enjoy.

But the road to Hoʻolauleʻa was not a simple “setup and go” party. It was a process involving the blood, sweat and muscle of volunteers.

It all started with the māla (garden). Students and faculty cleared and tilled Ka Māla o Niuhelewai during a Malama ‘Aina day back in February. Once the soil was

turned and the area cleared, the volunteers planted the kalo, which was later pounded into poi. The rear of the garden was also cleared of rocks to make way for the imu.

Final preparations were made in the first week of April. It was not until a day prior to Hoʻolauleʻa that the food was prepped for cooking. As some volunteers peeled the kalo and dressed turkeys, others dissected the banana plants for the cooking. The pig for roasting was seasoned with salt then placed in the imu.

The poi (enough to heartily fill a cooler) took an hour to pound with the aid of a poi-grinder.

Kumu Alapaki Luke sent out an

email to the faculty, encouraging professors to allow students to attend Hoʻolauleʻa, which for the first time this year was combined with a career fair and sustainability showcase.

Alapaki and members from the Hulili ke Kukui Hawaiian Center led the opening with a pule (prayer). Once the pule was over, the food’s scent wafted into the air, and music echoed from the instruments and voices of the performers. Spears were thrown as a test of physical prowess; many others relaxed their minds and bodies making native crafts.

Everyone was welcome to stop by. Various employers opened

doors for employment opportunities in the Career Fair, held in the hale ʻaina (cafeteria). The Veteran Center also advertised its presence, letting the public know that aid was available to former service-members. The Sustainability Showcase held a recycled art contest in the Student Lounge, while promoting eco-friendliness.

Students and faculty alike laughed together in joy. Pamela Brown, a visiting resident, said, “It was a fun event.” This can be accented by the fact that it was not just any organization or one person who put this event together it was residents of the community, students and family alike.