THE LIVING WATER OF OHA - 'Okakopa (October) 2019 | Vol. 36, No. 10 - Yuck Boys Live
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‘Okakopa (October) 2019 | Vol. 36, No. 10
T H E L I V I N G W AT E R O F O H A www.oha.org/kwo
PAGE 10
- -
Ha‘awina ‘o lelo ‘o iwi: Learn Hawaiian
Ho‘olako ‘ia e Ha‘alilio Solomon - Kaha Ki‘i ‘ia e Dannii Yarbrough
-
This lesson teaches how to show possession in ‘olelo Hawai‘i. There are two ways to show
possession, k-possessive and k-less possessive, but this issue only teaches k-possessive.
There are also two classes, usually called kino-O and kino-A, but this issue will focus on kino-O
possessions. The possessive marker ko goes before the possessor(s), and the possession(s)
follows, as in the following formula:
ko + possessor(s) + possession(s)
To pluralize the possessor, the definite
-:
article ke/ka (“the”) becomes na
- - -
ko ke ka ne wa‘a = the man’s canoe ko na ka ne wa‘a = the men’s canoe
To pluralize the possession, use the
word mau before it:
Possession with pronouns
There are three pronouns that combine with the
possessive marker ko and change form: wau (I/me),
‘oe (you), and ia (he/she/it). These combine as the
following forms:
ko + wau = ko’u
ko + ‘oe = kou
ko + ia = kona
These are the only pronouns that combine with the
possessive marker ko. All other possessors remain
- - the same.
ko na ka ne mau wa‘a = the men’s canoes
-
-
E ho‘i hou mai i ke ia mahina a‘e!
-lelo Hawai‘i (Hawaiian language lesson)!
Be sure to visit us again next month for a new ha‘awina ‘o
Follow us: /oha_hawaii | /oha_hawaii | Fan us: /officeofhawaiianaffairs | Watch us: /OHAHawaii
‘ŌLELO A KA POUHANA ‘okakopa2019 3
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
MELE INSPIRES COLLABORATION AND PRIDE
mele
nvt. Song, anthem, or chant of any kind; poem, poetry; to sing, chant
(preceded by both ke and ka). Cf. haku mele. Käna mele, his song
[sung by him or composed by him]. Kona mele, his song [in his honor].
Ke Mele a Solomona (Biblical), the Song of Solomon.
Aloha mai kākou,
T
he September premier of Kü Ha‘aheo e Ku‘u The chorus of Kü Ha‘aheo e Ku‘u Hawai‘i reflects our
Hawai‘i, written by an inspired kumu and sung by pride, our strength, our hope and our love for our land; may
a star studded cast, is an example of the mana of we harness the mana of mele to uplift our families, communi-
mele. As our lähui strives to empower ourselves, ties and lähui.
celebrate our patriots, and connect more strongly
with one another around shared aloha ‘äina goals, we do this
with the mana of mele. With the support and blessing of the
haku mele, Hinaleimoana Wong, the mele is shared with ka
po‘e i aloha i ka ÿäina. Her hope is that it might strengthen,
connect, and inspire us as ka po‘e i aloha i ka ‘äina.
In this issue we share the history and future of Hawaiian Sylvia Hussey, Ed.D.
mele, a way to be civically engaged through the voting process, Ka Pouhana Kūikawā/Interim Chief Executive Officer
and a way to take care of our communities through economic
development and the value of work.
MEA O LOKO TABLE OF CONTENTS ‘Okakopa | October 2019 | Vol. 36, No. 10
Sylvia Hussey, Ed.D.
Ka Pouhana Kūikawā,
Interim Chief Executive Officer
MO‘OLELO NUI | COVER FEATURE MO‘OMEHEU | CULTURE
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Nicole Mehanaokalā Hind The echo of our song carries us forward Leading by doing
Director
Puanani Fernandez-Akamine STARTING ON PAGE 10 PAGE 4
Publications Editor
DIGITAL AND PRINT MEDIA IKAIKA HUSSEY, KILIN REECE, ERIC STINTON, CHAD TAKATSUGI BY PUANANI FERNANDEZ-AKAMINE
Alice Malepeai Silbanuz
Digital and Print Media Manager
Music strikes a chord in each of us, and has animated our Meet the new voices that are
culture for countless generations. Hit play and enjoy a trio: rising to the challenge of this
Ikaika Hussey
Editor-in-Chief/ music as industry, as global diplomat, and as the rhythm of age.
Communications Specialist revolution
Kaleena Patcho
Communications Specialist ‘ĀINA | LAND AND WATER
EA | GOVERNANCE
OHA wins award for Wao Kele
Kawena Carvalho-Mattos
Digital Media Specialist
Jason Lees
Congressional fellowship gets an update PAGE 7
Digital Media Specialist
Kuualohapauole Lau
Student Intern BY OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS STAFF
o Puna plan PAGE 9
BY ALICE MALEPEAI SILBANUZ
EMAIL/WEBSITES Senator Daniel Kahikina Akaka was a powerful voice for the lāhui,
kwo@OHA.org and is now commemorated in the new name of the Congressional Smart land use is critical for the future of our
www.OHA.org fellowship islands, and OHA is leading the way in Puna
www.oha.org/kwo
@oha_hawaii
@oha_hawaii
/officeofhawaiianaffairs
Published monthly by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, 560 N. Nimitz Hwy., Suite 200, Honolulu, HI 96817. Telephone: 594-1888 or 1-800-468-4644 ext. 41888. Fax: 594-1865.
Email: kwo@OHA.org. World Wide Web location: www.oha.org. Circulation: 64,000 copies, 55,000 of which are distributed by mail, and 9,000 through island offices, state and
/ohahawaii
county offices, private and community agencies and target groups and individuals. Ka Wai Ola is printed by O‘ahu Publications. Hawaiian fonts are provided by Coconut Info.
Advertising in Ka Wai Ola does not constitute an endorsement of products or individuals by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Ka Wai Ola is published by the Office of Hawaiian
Affairs to help inform its Hawaiian beneficiaries and other interested parties about Hawaiian issues and activities and OHA programs and efforts. ©2019 Office of Hawaiian
Affairs. All rights reserved.
4 ‘okakopa2019 www.oha.org/kwo | kwo@OHA.org
NATIVE HAWAIIAN » NEWS | FEATURES | EVENTS
Leading by doing
A new generation of Hawaiian
leaders are rising to the challenges
facing our islands and our planet.
E Ho‘okanaka features these
important new voices.
By Puanani Fernandez-Akamine
K
a Wai Ola sat down with Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS)
Assistant Navigator and Science Coordinator Haunani Kane
and asked her to share her mana‘o on leadership.
Kane, who sailed 5 legs of the Worldwide Voyage received
her PhD in Earth and Planetary Sciences from the University
of Hawaiÿi at Mänoa. She is currently a National Science Foundation
Postdoctoral Researcher working at the University of Hawaiÿi at Hilo. Haunani Kane - Photo: Jason Lees
Her research is focused on better understanding how islands within Pap-
ahänaumokuäkea will response to sea level rise and storms. In addition seek solutions because the issue is important to our people. When you
to her work with PVS, Kane is also a member of ‘Ohana Wa‘a and Nä think of science that way, when you seek solutions knowing there’s an
Kama Kai, a youth organization that teaches ocean awareness, safety impact on people you care about, that’s the way of doing pono science.
and conservation. When I’m out on the ocean that’s when I feel the most connected to
Reflections on Leadership my küpuna. It’s a space where you’re navigating and using lots of math
“The leaders I most admire lead by doing. They are quiet, but when and science; there’s critical thinking, observation and recall. But it’s
they speak what they say is profound. From Nainoa (Thompson) I more than that. There’s a spiritual and cultural element. At times things
learned to dream big and how, when things seem impossible, to find happen that you can’t explain. You start to step into that other realm and
the courage and strength to persevere. I was fortunate to do two sails you realize it’s coming from somewhere deeper and that you’re making
with Uncle Bruce (Blankenfeld). He is so good at leading people. He a connection. It’s hard to explain.”
inspires his whole crew to work hard all the time - and they do it just Paying it Forward
because they want to make him proud. “Nainoa invested time in us with the expectation that we will do the
One of my most memorable legs of the world-wide voyage was sailing same for future generations. This summer, I taught an oceanography
home in 2017, and being part of a team with strong, focused and amaz- class at UH. I tried to connect everything I taught the students back to
ing wahine. Pomai Bertleman was our captain and Kaiulani Murphy Hawai‘i. If they can relate what they are learning to their home, then
was our navigator. It was the first time in the history of Höküle‘a that they can relate it to their own lives.
there was both a female captain and navigator. I got to see that women One of my passions is helping young people learn in ways that are
can lead in our own way. We don’t have to do things the same way as non-traditional: Teach them about the ocean by being out on the ocean;
men to be successful.” teach them about the mountains by being up in the mountains. A ‘class-
Culture and Science room’ is not a set of walls, but any space where learning takes place.”
“Our culture drives us to ask questions. When we see a problem, we
THE NEXT
GENERATION
OF LEADERS
Haunani Kane on the Höküle‘a during the Mälama Honua Worldwide Voyage - Photo:s Polynesian Voyaging Society and ‘Öiwi TV
Follow us: /oha_hawaii | /oha_hawaii | Fan us: /officeofhawaiianaffairs | Watch us: /OHAHawaii ‘ŌPIO ‘okakopa2019 5
YOUTH
New executive director of A young voice for the Mauna
Hawaiian Community Assets By Aliantha Lim-Tepper
P
ALL at her fingertips. The ‘ölelo, the oli,
By Ka Wai Ola Staff amazing team of äheona Aiwohi began attend- the hula, the history. This life is normal
L
dedicated staff and ing papa oli with her tutu Pi‘i for her so hula and oli are second nature.”
ahela Williams was announced as volunteers across in Hälau Nä Hanona Külike O Päheona has also been at Maunakea
Hawaiian Community Assets’ (HCA) the state and are Pi‘ilani when she was barely three multiple times this summer, and continues
new Executive Director at the 18th ready to expand our years old. It reflected her ‘ohana’s to go on weekends when she can. You may
Annual Native Hawaiian Convention network of FOCs deep commitment to living and perpetuat- recognize her from the viral video offer-
on Sept. 24. She will succeed existing to Kaua‘i and Maui ing Hawaiian values and culture. Despite ing a ho‘okupu of the mele ‘Öiwi Ë at the
Executive Director, Jeff Gilbreath, who transi- Counties over the being a toddler, Pähe was always atten- küpuna tent. “My kumu taught us that mele
tions to Director of Lending and Development next 18 months,” tive and participatory in her oli class. She to show us how we are all ‘ohana. And I
responsible for managing the organization’s shared Williams as loved to dance hula too and would practice wanted to show aloha to the küpuna,” Pähe
loan fund and social enterprise, Hawaii Com- she addressed the with her mother, Keli Aiwohi, and sister, said. That heartfelt video has over 75,000
munity Lending (HCL). convention attend- Ka‘iulani, at home. When she turned four views. Her kumu, Mrs. Sissy Lake-Farm,
On October 1st, Williams will take the lead ees. she was officially enrolled in the hälau’s shared, “When I saw the Facebook post
of the Native Hawaiian nonprofit after the Lahela Williams - Under Williams’ keiki hula class. of her leading the kähea for ‘Öiwi Ë I was
completion of a 36-month executive transition Photo: Courtesy leadership, HCA “I love dancing hula and singing. It so excited. I know dad (Kumu Hula John
plan that has been overseen by the organiza- will expand its FOCs statewide and launch makes me happy I get to do stuff that Keola Lake) is proud and our ho‘oilina
tion’s board. Born and raised in the Kewalo the state’s new Hawai‘i Housing Affordability makes me Hawaiian like my family,” Pähe (legacy) exists through our haumäna,
Hawaiian Homestead in the Papakölea Region, Coalition, while HCL grows to $15 million in told OHA. Now six years old, Pähe attends even as young as Päheona. The kamali‘i
she brings with her 20 years of community consumer and affordable housing loans target- first grade at Kula Kaiapuni ma Päi‘a on of today are taking on kuleana and have
development experience and a background in ing local and Hawaiian households unable to Maui. ‘Ölelo Hawai‘i is also the primary the resources to learn, grow, and continue
local, state, and federal policy advocacy. Most qualify at credit unions or banks. language spoken at home among Pähe and to fight for our lähui. She had the ‘i‘ini and
recently, Williams served as HCA’s Deputy “After 19 years, HCA’s leadership remains her five brothers and sisters. desire to häpai that kuleana and so bril-
Director where she managed the state’s largest committed to our original vision,” said HCA Mama Keli Aiwohi shared, “She doesn’t liantly, with no fear, but conviction and
HUD housing counseling program, a network co-founder and affordable housing advocate, know any other life. I don’t think she real- confidence to represent her, her mäkua,
of Financial Opportunity Centers (FOCs), and Kehaulani Filimoeatu. “Lahela is a young, izes how lucky she is to be surrounded by her kumu, her küpuna and all those who
the deployment of $1.3 million in match sav- strong Native Hawaiian leader who is rooted so much mea Hawai‘i. For me growing up, stand in front, beside, and behind her. Eö
ings grants to Native Hawaiians statewide. in her homelands and will carry us forward for my school didn’t even have ‘ölelo Hawai‘i e Päheona!” Päheona, at six years old, is a
“I am humbled and excited about the oppor- the next 20 years, fighting for the economic classes. I was lucky to be involved with living gem and confirms the righteousness
tunity to serve as the Executive Director of self-sufficiency of our Hawaiian and local hula at a young age. But now Pähe has it of our keiki generation.
Hawaiian Community Assets. We have an communities.”
‘U‘uku ka hana, ‘u‘uku ka loa‘a
Na Kalani Akana, Ph.D.
U
O‘ahu ‘o Kaipo a mai ke kahakai ‘o ia i nänä
a hau‘oli au i ka makana ‘ia mai pinepine ai i nä moku kolo e holo ana. Koi ‘ia
ia‘u i puke hou e ku‘u hoa ‘o ‘o Kaipo e kona makuakäne e hana nui a inä
Hau‘oli Akaka, ka luna kuhikuhi pëlä e loa‘a ana kona ‘i‘ini iä ia. Ho‘omana‘o
o ka mahele na‘auao o OHA ma mau ‘o Kaipo i nä ‘ölelo no‘eau o kona päpä
mua. Kupanaha nö ho‘i au i ke e like me, “‘U‘uku ka hana, ‘u‘uku ka loa‘a.”
käkau ‘ana ma ka ‘ölelo Hawai‘i no ka mea Maika‘i këia puke no ka paipai ‘ana i nä
he puke ‘ölelo ‘elua, ‘o ia ho‘i ka ‘Enelani ‘öpio e kïko‘o aku a lou i ka ‘i‘ini o mua. Inä
ma kekahi hapa o ka puke a ma ka Hawai‘i hana nui, nui ka loa‘a e like me kä Kaipo i
ma kekahi hapa a‘e. Mahalo e Känehünämoku hana ai. Paipai ‘o KVA i na känaka e nalu i
Voyaging Academy (KVA) no ia puke: ka mea nä loa‘a o ke ola, e kä‘ana aku i nä ‘ike, a e
käkau ‘o Ku‘uleianuhea Awo-Chun; ka mea mahalo i nä mea loa‘a o ke ola.
unuhi ‘o Leigh Mahealani Barbieto; a me ka ‘O “‘O Ka Ipu ka Honua” kekahi puke ‘ë
mea kahaki‘i ‘o Kristi Desuacido. ‘O “‘U‘uku a‘e ma ka ‘ölelo Hawai‘i. ‘O “Canoe Plants”
ka hana, ‘u‘uku ka loa‘a” ka inoa o ka puke kekahi puke kuhikuhi o kekahi hana i kökua
mo‘olelo. ‘ia e OHA, ‘o ia ho‘i, ka hana kanu ‘ana i nä
‘O Kaipo ka inoa o ka häme‘e o ka mo‘olelo mea kanu i lawe ‘ia mai e nä küpuna i Hawai‘i
a mai kona kamali‘i ‘ana ä makua ua ‘i‘ini ‘o nei. Inä hoihoi i ia mau puke e kipa iä
ia e lilo i kekahi käpena moku. No Wai‘anae, www.kanehunamoku.org/books. Päheona Aiwohi on Maunakea - Photos: Keli Aiwohi
6 ‘okakopa2019
PRESENTS A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
The many
Kāko‘o ‘Oihana ‘Ōiwi blessings of Lono
fish and ‘awa. Many chants refer to
Supporting Native rain clouds as “bodies (kino) of Lono.”
‘Uala (sweet potato) cultivation on the
Hawaiian-owned Businesses dryer hillside lands that were dependent
on winter rains are identified with Lono
The November 2019 edition of the Ka Wai Ola By Claire Ku‘uleilani Hughes,
in his form as Kamapua‘a (hog-child).
Humorously, our ancestors referred to
will feature a FREE advertising section for Native Dr. PH., R.D.
the humble ‘uala as the “droppings” of
M
Hawaiian-owned businesses* Kamapua‘a.
any natural phenomena Lono was celebrated annually for
There are only a limited number represented our ances- bringing rains that watered leeward
tors’ gods. These aspects slopes and all farms in the islands. The
of spaces, so sign up today! of nature surrounded and Makahiki was a four-month long reli-
embraced our ancestors gious ceremony. During Makahiki,
with their mana. And those natural kähuna (priests) prayed for rain, abun-
wonders continue to embrace us today. dant crops, and to escape from sickness
PLEASE VISIT: Rain clouds, heavy rain and thunder and trouble. Ho‘okupu (gifts) that were
www.oha.org/freeads represent Lono, the god of plants and
planting. Our ancestors depended on
products of the land and were kino lau
(body forms, symbols) of Lono were
for applications more information! rain to water the mäla (gardens). Thus,
in old Hawai‘i, prayers to Lono for ade-
presented to Lono-makua (Lono-the
elder) during Makahiki. Offerings were
quate rainfall, abundant harvests and collected at altars on the borders of
protection from droughts and famine each ahupua‘a (island district). During
were constant. In old Hawai‘i, prayers a royal procession through the districts,
DEADLINES to Lono for rain and crops were offered the harvest tribute was accepted, and the
at community heiau mäpele, built by ahupua‘a lands and crops were blessed
Space Reservations must be placed maka‘äinana (citizen, commoner). and released from kapu. The attend-
Prayers offered during Makahiki, the ing ali‘i nui, or high chief, acted as a
by Monday, October 14, 2019 by 4pm annual festival that welcomed Lono’s deputy of Lono, who was represented
return to Hawai‘i, were offered at heiau by a symbol somewhat suggestive of a
Final camera ready ads must be submitted ipu o Lono or hale o Lono, built at the ship’s sail. The symbol was a tall staff
by Monday, October 21, 2019 by 4pm boundaries of ahupua‘a. with a small carved figure at the top and
Martha Beckwith writes that our a cross-piece fastened just below. A
ancestors recognized Lono’s powers large square of white kapa (bark-cloth)
FREE ad space! For questions about over plentiful harvests with daily hung from the cross-piece. The four-
prayers as well. Each home kept a month-long Makahiki begins on the
this promotion please special ipu (gourd) for family prayers first full moon after the Makali‘i (the
(actual size) contact Kaleena Patcho by the kuahu (altar) in the hale mua Pleiades) appears in the eastern sky at
at 808-594-1981. (men’s house). This ipu o Lono held sunset, usually in mid-October.
food offerings and, at the beginning In a coincidence of place and timing,
SIZE OF AD and end of each day, the man of the Captain James Cook landed at Keala-
width: 3.12 inches *Evidence of ownership house sat before the gourd of Lono, kekua (the path of the god) Bay to
Height: 3.03 inches willl be verified OHA and offered prayers for the well-being provision his ship during the season of
Hawaiian Registry numbers of the chiefs, commoners and for his the Lono festival. Cook was received
FILE FORMAT (or alternate proof of ancestry) own family. Then he ate the food from and worshipped as Lono-makua.
4-color (CMYK) PDF or and subject to confirmation the gourd before leaving to work in the During the subsequent disheartening
high-resolution JPEG/TIFF (300 dpi) by OHA staff. mäla (gardens). and disillusioning events, the naviga-
In addition to dark clouds, heavy tor was killed. The event occurred on
DELIVERY Please visit: rain and thunder, Lono is represented the shores of Kealakekua, where for
Ad materials can be submitted via www.oha.org/registry by lightning, earthquakes, rain and centuries Lono-makua, the bearer of
email to kaleenap@oha.org for information on the wind, rainbows, whirlwinds that sweep rain and plenty, was believed to have
OHA Hawaiian Registry. the earth, waterspouts, the clustering come ashore each year. Makahiki is
clouds of heaven, and gushing springs approaching and many in Hawai‘i will
on the mountains. Other kino lau of acknowledge the gifts of Lono that con-
Lono are red fish, black coconut, white tinue to enrich Hawai‘i’s lands. 
Follow us: /oha_hawaii | /oha_hawaii | Fan us: /officeofhawaiianaffairs | Watch us: /OHAHawaii ‘okakopa2019 7
OHA renames and expands Congressional Fellowship
in empowering the our beloved Senator, it is more important now than ever to
Native Hawaiian continue to invest in sending strong voices to Washington,
community are D.C. That is the mission of the Daniel K. Akaka Congres-
provided the oppor- sional Fellowship and why OHA’s Washington D.C. Bureau
tunity to learn about prioritizes supporting the fellowship program.
federal policy and Since 2017, Kamehameha Schools and OHA have part-
how to engage at nered to fund and operate the fellowship program, which has
the federal level is seven alumni and five current fellows. The Akaka Fellowship
an important prior- is successfully ensuring that Native Hawaiians are in positions
ity for me and will to meaningfully exercise self-determination by assisting in
be impactful for the the creation of federal policies and programs that affect the
Native Hawaiian Native Hawaiian community with the OHA Washington D.C.
community as they Bureau’s hands-on support, guidance and training. Six of the
continue to explore, seven Fellowship alumni continue in federal-related advo-
among other things, cacy, with the seventh currently pursuing a graduate degree.
self-determination. Fellows spend nine months working in a Congressional
I look forward to office and receive mentorship on federal policy, profession-
continuing this alism and advocacy throughout their time in Washington.
important partner- Fellows develop a network that will serve them in both
ship.” Hawai‘i and D.C., ensuring that those who are interested in
“Through the remaining in D.C. are well-equipped to begin a career in fed-
Akaka fellows with current Congressional staff, OHA staff, and former Akaka staffers at the renaming ceremony for the Congressional Fel- eral policy.
Daniel K. Akaka Congressional Fellowship in Washington, D.C. - Photo: Courtesy lowship program, Those interested in applying to the Akaka Fellowship
sponsored by the should visit www.oha.org/dcinternships, follow OHA on
By Office of Hawaiian Affairs Staff Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) and Kamehameha social media, or call OHA’s D.C. Bureau at (202) 506-7238
T
Schools, I have had the privilege of having emerging ‘öiwi to learn more.
he Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) held a dedi- leaders serve Hawai‘i as members of my team”, stated Con-
cation ceremony last month to officially rename gresswomen Gabbard. “They work on substantive legislation,
the Native Hawaiian Congressional Fellowship to provide insight into matters of importance to the Native MESSAGE OF MAHALO
the Daniel K. Akaka Congressional Fellowship. Hawaiian community and on the issues before Congress, all
Expanding the legacy of the first Native Hawaiian while learning the inner workings of the Federal Govern- It is with so much joy for my ‘ohana and I, knowing my
United States Senator, the third cohort’s original three Akaka ment. Senator Daniel Kahikina Akaka was a dear friend and a Dearest Pa’s life’s work continues through the next gen-
Fellows were joined by two more promising young leaders. mentor. He dedicated his life to serving the people of Hawai‘i erations dedicating themselves to the service, well-being
The fellows have commenced with their highly coveted and this country through the military, as an educator, and in and productivity of all our people through the Daniel K.
placements on Capitol Hill, such as in the offices of Sena- the Halls of Congress. Mahalo to OHA and Kamehameha Akaka Congressional Fellowship.
tor Brian Schatz (D-HI), Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Schools for their continued commitment to this program –
Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI-2). In addition to the now named in his honor – and keeping the spirit of aloha and Some of the greatest lessons I have learned from my
five current fellows, three members of the previous cohort of service that Senator Akaka embodied alive in the generations grandfather is the power and beauty of the aloha spirit and
Akaka Fellows work in Washington, D.C.— two of whom of Native Hawaiians who follow in his footsteps.” how you put it to good work, in forming and cultivating
are full-time Congressional staffers: one in the office of Con- “The Akaka Fellowship recognizes and honors the impor- relationships, bringing people together, and making for a
gressman Ed Case (D-HI-1) and the other at the United States tance that Senator Akaka always placed on education, for better world for all. I look forward to meeting those in the
Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. The third former fellow not only advancement but its own sake” stated Congress- program, past, present, future, and learning of their experi-
currently shapes federal policy through digital organizing and man Case. “Both before and throughout his long service in ences and their next steps. This program makes possible
campaign strategy. Congress, he was first, and always, an educator. He would for his legacy of aloha to live on through our youth of
“Senator Akaka was a powerful and unique voice for be very proud and humbled at this recognition of his life’s today and tomorrow. The experience to work in this
Native Hawaiians throughout his many years of service. It work. But even more, he would be excited for the next gen- government setting will be the best first hand education.
is fitting that the Congressional fellowship be named in his erations of Native Hawaiian leadership, especially in public
honor as its recipients continue his legacy of ensuring Native service, that were, are and will be enabled by this fellowship. Mahalo a nui to all who have and continue to make
Hawaiian voices are present in critical conversations that Elected public office is among the highest responsibilities and the Daniel K. Akaka Congressional Fellowship pos-
directly affect the Hawaiian community and the entire state,” honors in our democracy, and Senator Akaka would espe- sible. Through his life, his commitment and dedication
said Senator Schatz. cially encourage and welcome his fellowship starting those to mentor our future leaders to learn and apply all that
“I have been fortunate to participate in the OHA DC fel- next generations down that path.” is taught at home in Hawai‘i and beyond to kökua and
lowship program for each of its cohorts, and thank OHA The late Senator Akaka served for 14 years in the U.S. care for each other is further accomplished through this
and Kamehameha Schools for their commitment to this House of Representatives and another 22 years in the U.S. program.
program,” said Senator Hirono. “In the wake of this year’s Senate – the whole time living and serving his commu-
recently conducted diversity survey of Senate staff, it is clear nity with aloha. During and after his time in Congress, he On behalf of the Akaka ‘Ohana, as he would say,
that the Senate, and likely the entire Congress, can improve ensured Native Hawaiians were not only actively involved mahalo nui loa me ke aloha pumehana”
representation of all our indigenous people, especially Native in the conversation, but also had a familiar Native Hawaiian
Hawaiians. Separately, ensuring that individuals interested voice advocating for our issues. With the recent passing of — Trustee Kalei Akaka
8 ‘okakopa2019 www.oha.org/kwo | kwo@OHA.org
NATIVE HAWAIIAN » NEWS | FEATURES | EVENTS
Paving their way to success
spaces. Their second business, Geobunga, opened in 2009 as to success is paved with trials, and starting a new business in
an outgrowth of Bella Pietra Design, borne in part by Ded- the midst of a recession was a huge risk. “Running a small
rick’s vision of indoor and outdoor spaces that seamlessly business is tough,” mused Dedrick.
transition in both design and concept, and also as a response So in 2018 Dedrick reached out to OHA and applied for
to the 2008 recession. a Mälama Business Loan, specifically for the Native Farms
Selling exclusive stone products, Bella Pietra Design caters side of the house. This enabled them to invest in equipment
to designers, architects, developers, contractors and home- to grow their plants more efficiently. “As a Native Hawaiian
owners. When the recession hit, the Dedricks realized that business owner it feels good to have the financial backing of
they needed to diversify and saw a niche, a “puka” in the OHA,” remarked Dedrick. “The loan helped us to grow more
market that needed to be filled. They decided to take some of quickly and with greater stability.”
the products they were selling at Bella Pietra Design, rebrand Their long-term vision is to continue growing the nursery,
them, and expand their inventory to increase their client base focusing on wholesale contracts. Their plant inventory is
and revenues. deliberately diverse, but Dedrick’s favorite is definitely the
And so Geobunga was conceived, selling playful and roses. “We have amazing roses,” she raved. “We sell varie-
Layla Dedrick - Photo: Jason Lees affordable products that help people to create beautiful, liv- ties that grow well in Hawai‘i’s hot climate. Almost anyone
able outdoor spaces: stone pavers, decorative rocks, pebbles, can grow them successfully.”
By Puanani Fernandez-Akamine pots, fountains, benches, bamboo accents and outdoor sculp- This successful, multi-faceted, family-owned and operated
L
tures. This allowed the Dedricks to expand their clientele and business was more than twenty years in the making; it is the
ayla Dedrick has a passion for creating environments serve renters as well as homewoners. For example, container sweet fruit of their hard work and the courage to pursue their
where people can thrive. gardens (multiple plants grown together in a beautiful ceramic dreams. “I always wanted to start a business,” reminisced
“Because of the weather and culture here in pot) can easily be moved from one home to another. Says Dedrick, “and after 10 years of dreaming I decided to just
Hawai‘i, ‘inside’ and ‘outside’ are not always clearly Dedrick, “Geobunga provides products to create an outdoor go for it.”
defined,” reflects Dedrick, owner of Bella Pietra space you can actually live in. Our products help people Seated on a hand-carved Indonesian sofa in Bella Pietra
Design, Pähonua, Geobunga and Native Farms. “I want to make their outdoor spaces – whether an apartment lanai or a Design’s elegant showroom, Dedrick contemplates their
help people create spaces in their homes and gardens that are backyard – part of their living space so that it is not just an journey and had this advice for aspiring Native Hawaiian
both functional and beautiful.” afterthought, but a place of respite.” entrepreneurs: “Don’t feel like you have to figure every-
It was this passion for beautiful spaces inspired Dedrick Today, Geobunga is a thriving business with two locations: thing out by yourself. There are so many successful business
and husband, Andrew, to open Bella Pietra Design in 2001. the five-acre Native Farms nursery in Waimänalo, and an owners who are happy to share their time and wisdom. Let
Bella Pietra Design features stone and tile products for indoor Urban Gardening Center in Kaka‘ako. Of course, the road them mentor you.”
He Kumu Lā‘au Ho‘okahi
Na Kalani Akana, Ph.D.
U
Ma Kahuawaiola, e ‘ike ana nä moho i ke kuleana nui o
a ‘ölelo ‘ia e nä küpuna, “He lä‘au küho‘okahi, ke kumu no ka ho‘ona‘auao i ka lähui no laila, ‘imi ikaika
he lehua no Ka‘ala,” me he mahalo ala no nä läkou i ka ‘ike a me ka mäkau o ke kumu mäkaukau. He
po‘okela, ka u‘i, ke akamai. A i këia manawa, kaiäulu a‘o nö ho‘i ‘o Kahuawaiola e a‘o, a‘oa‘o, a käko‘o
hiki ke ‘ölelo ‘ia pëlä no ke kumu lehua o Hilo piha i ko nä moho holomua.
me ka lehua o Waimea no ka mea ua kö iho Wahi a Makalapua Alencastre, ka luna ho‘olauka‘i
nei ka ÿäküloia papahana ho‘omäkaukau kumu ‘öiwi ma no Kahuawaiola, “ ‘O ka puka lanakila ko‘iko‘i loa ‘o
lalo o ka World Indigenous Nations Higher Education ia ke komo piha, ke ku‘upau a me ka ho‘okö ‘oia‘i‘o
Consortium (WINHEC) ma ka mahina aku nei. He ala o këlä me këia moho Kahuawaiola e lilo i kumu mauli
‘äküloia hou loa këia, a ‘o Kahuawaiola a me Kaho‘iwai ola Hawai‘i.” ‘O Makalapua, Keiki Kawai‘ae‘a, Noelani
nä papahana mua ‘elua. Iokepa-Guerrero a me Kananinohea Mäka‘imoku nä kumu
‘O Kahuawaiola, he papahana ho‘omäkaukau kumu ia o Kahuawaiola. Kökua ‘ia ka papahana e nä kumu kaiapuni
ma loko o ke koleke ‘ölelo Hawai‘i ‘o Ka Haka ‘Ula o a‘o ma‘i‘o: Pele Harman (makemakika), Kameha‘ililani
Ke‘elikölani ma Hilo. He papahana kümakahiki këia ma Waiau (pilikanaka), Këhau Kalili (‘epekema), Kekoa Nä kumu o Kahuawaiola me nä hoa käko‘o o WINHEC ma
ka pae mulipuka, ho‘omaka ka pü‘ulu hou i këlä me këia Harman (puolo), a me Haunani Keamo (mäkau kino). A Nolewai, ‘Aukake 2018 - Photo: Courtesy
makahiki. Inä hoihoi ke kanaka e lilo i kumu a‘o ‘ölelo käko‘o piha ‘ia nä a‘oäkumu e nä kahu a‘oäkumu i ka
Hawai‘i, hiki iä ia ke noi ma Këkëmapa a e ‘äpono ‘ia ana ho‘oma‘ama‘a a‘o haumäna ma nä kula kaiapuni like ‘ole ‘o Hawai‘i me O‘ahu; ‘elua ma Kaua‘i. Wahi a ke Ke‘ena
ma Pepeluali. ‘Ekolu pale a puka me ka palapala hö‘oia o ka pae‘äina. Ho‘ona‘auao (DOE) Hawai‘i TATP (http://ohr.k12.hi.us/
Indigenous Teacher Education. ‘O nä laikini ko‘iko‘i ‘elua Pono nä kumu ma nä pae a pau (ha‘aha‘a, waena, tatp/TATP_POST2.pdf) aia he 40 mau külana kumu e
no ka ho‘ona‘auao Hawai‘i ‘o ia ka laikini Kaia‘ölelo- ki‘eki‘e) a ma nä kula a pau loa- ‘o ia ho‘i, ma nä kula ho‘opiha ai ma nä kula kaia‘ölelo a kaiapuni Hawai‘i. No
Kaiapuni Hawai‘i a me Hawaiian Knowledge, a hiki nö kaiapuni DOE a me nä kula ho‘ämana. Wahi a Alencastre, laila, inä ho‘ohihi ‘ia ka mana‘o e lilo i kumu no kou kai-
ke loa‘a pü nä laikini kula ha‘aha‘a a ma‘i‘o kula waena/ ma ko läkou nänä ‘ana i nä kula no këia makahiki kula nei, äulu e ‘imi i ka ‘ike komo ma ka pünaewele. Hiki ke huli
ki‘ekie. ua pono ‘ekolu kumu kaiapuni ho‘ämana ma ka mokupuni iä Kahuawaiola ma http://www.olelo.hawaii.edu/kwo/.
Follow us: /oha_hawaii | /oha_hawaii | Fan us: /officeofhawaiianaffairs | Watch us: /OHAHawaii ‘okakopa2019 9
OHA wins award for exemplary land management plan
By Alice Malepeai Silbanuz
T
11, 2019.
he Office of Hawai- The Wao Kele o Puna Compre-
ian Affairs Land hensive Management Plan seeks to
Program and partners be a unique, innovative and cultur-
were awarded with the ally competent planning document.
American Planning It does not simply include culture as
Association Award for Cultural/ a component of the CMP, but fea-
Historic Preservation for their tures culture as the driving force
work to create the Wao Kele o Puna and lens through which the CMP
Comprehensive Management Plan is created, will be implemented,
(CMP). Through a two-year pro- and allowed to evolve. While the
cess, the OHA Land Program and CMP embraces modern day sci-
partners, Ho‘okuleana LLC, Forest ence, technology and proven best
Solutions Inc., Nohopapa Hawai‘i, practices in conservation, it does
and Cultural Surveys Hawai‘i, so through a cultural perspective.
Inc. worked closely with Puna Ultimately, the CMP provides a
community members to create a culturally competent stewardship
comprehensive plan for managing framework for OHA to implement
Wao Kele o Puna. Encompassing recommended actions.
25,800 acres, Wao Kele o Puna is “OHA is honored that the incor-
one of the largest tropical lowland poration of the vision and input of
rainforests in Hawai‘i and it is man- our beneficiaries and the greater
aged by OHA. community is being recognized,”
A substantial component to the said OHA Land Program Manager OHA Land Paia and partners with Hawai‘i-island based community advisory council, ‘Aha Kükäkükä, that worked collaboratively on
planning process was community Jonathan Ching. “We firmly believe developing the award-winning comprehensive management plan for Wao Kele o Puna.- Photo: Kaipo Kï‘aha
engagement, which was conducted that this is an avenue for collective LOGO WITH WHITE BORDER
through ethnohistorical interviews, impact and that our people are the
a community advisory council key for implementing plans of this
called the ‘Aha Kükäkükä, and two nature with meaningful and long-
public meetings. The plan serves as lasting results.”
a model for integrating traditional Watch the OHA video pro-
Hawaiian knowledge into modern duction “Blending Traditional
forestry management and provides
opportunities for community par-
& Modern Land Management at
Wao Kele o Puna” that followed Ready to go after government contracts?
LOGO REVERSED IN BLUE
ticipation. the creation and Board of Trust-
The OHA Land Program and ees’ approval of the plan at https:// Let HI-PTAC assist you with our free services: daily listings of federal, state & county bids;
partners received the Cultural/His- vimeo.com/262134834. workshops; and counseling to help you navigate the process and market your product or service.
toric Preservation Award from the Visit www.oha.org/waokeleo-
American Planning Association at puna to view a copy of the Wao We now have neighbor islands staff to serve you. Our grant with the U.S. Defense Logistics
the Hawai‘i Congress of Planning Kele o Puna Comprehensive Man- Agency was recently renewed for up to 3 years. The Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Officials Conference on September agement Plan. is a subrecipient under our new gant. To receive assistance on the neighbor islands, please call:
COLOR SWATCHES
Main: 596-8990, ext. 1007
Main number services the following islands:
Hilo, Kona, Maui, Lāna‘i, Moloka‘i, Kaua‘i and O‘ahu.
Register with us today: hiptac.ecenterdirect.com
For information, contact our office at:
ptac@hookipaipai.org or 808-596-8990 ext. 1007
711 Kapi‘olani Blvd., Ste. 111, Honolulu, HI 96813
Validated parking at Pacific Park Plaza parking structure on Curtis Street
Funded by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) and U.S. Defense Logistics Agency.
Wao Kele o Puna.- Photo: Kaipo Kï‘aha
10 ‘okakopa2019 NĀ PUKE www.oha.org/kwo | kwo@OHA.org
BOOKS NATIVE HAWAIIAN » NEWS | FEATURES | EVENTS
Paradoxes of Hawaiian Sovereignty:
REVIEW
Land, Sex, and the Colonial Politics of State Nationalism
Review by Umi Perkins sovereignty. paradox of Hawaiian sovereignty is that we
A
Kauanui takes on the debate that rages in have a legacy of land privatization…”
confession: when I first saw the Hawaiian intellectual circles over whether The arguments in the book are somewhat
title of Kehaulani Kauanui’s Hawaiÿi was colonized or occupied (a sover- difficult to fully explain without resorting to,
second academic book, The Par- eign country invaded by another sovereign) or defining, some of the jargon of the criti-
adoxes of Hawaiian Sovereignty: and has, in other publications, asserted cal theories it uses: indigenous, critical race
Land, Sex, and the Colonial Poli- that Hawaiians are both simultaneously. theory, gender and other perspectives are
tics of State Nationalism, I thought it would In the Hulili journal, she proposed ways to used in what is called “intersectional” analy-
contain the major sin of academics: making “bridge the divide between de-occupation sis. This looks at how factors like race, class,
concepts unnecessarily complicated. Sov- and decolonization without compromising gender and sexual orientation act across each
ereignty to me is a very straight-forward our claims under international law.” In her other to produce effects. Sovereignty activists
concept: the status of being a country. But book she holds that “despite the disavowal who are simultaneously fervent Christians,
what I found was an impressively accurate of colonialism by kingdom nationalists, it is for example, act in ways that affect gender
and fair overview of the last decade in the precisely Western European and U.S. settler relations and interpretations of Hawaiian
Hawaiian movement, which has mostly colonialism that creates ... the conditions for culture:
not been documented. And in the world of kingdom nationalism to articulate itself in the The pattern that we see time and time again
Paradoxes of Hawaiian academia, if it’s not documented it’s as if it modern Western terms of nation, manhood within national liberation struggles is the
didn’t happen. [and] law…” rejection of same-sex practices and women’s
Sovereignty: Land, Sex, Kauanui, Professor of American Studies Kauanui is very effective in describ- power and authority by invoking tradition to
and Anthropology at Wesleyan University ing the chronology of events, including say that they are Western colonial imports.
and the Colonial Politics in Connecticut, summarizes “the politics of the Akaka Bill, the 2009 ceded lands case, Kauanui points out that in Hawai‘i, the
of State Nationalism sovereignty:” the 2014 Department of Interior hearings, pattern is altered. Here it is precisely our
Scholars within Native studies robustly Kana‘iolowalu and the Na‘i Aupuni conven- Hawaiian modernity that relegates traditional
by J. Kehaulani Kauanui debate the concept of sovereignty. Some sug- tion, and how these were shaped by disparate Hawaiian practices, such as same-sex rela-
Duke University Press gest that it be abandoned altogether due to its views on the meaning and ends of attempts tionships, to the past. This is consistent with
Western roots ... others suggest that, rather to reclaim sovereignty. But this chronology is many of the Pacific Islands’ view of Hawai‘i
Hardcover: $68.95 than discarding the term, we need to theo- also grounded on an analysis of fundamental as a cautionary tale of what not to do: sell
rize Indigenous sovereignties and how they aspects of Hawaiian identity - notably land your land, become modern, in short, be swal-
distinctly differ from the Western concept of and land law. On this she notes, ironically, “a lowed up.
M
usic is fundamental a global export? Eric Stinton poses
to Hawai‘i and our this provocative question as food for
culture. In this special thoughtful digestion.
section we’re show- The second essay shows that, as
casing a triptych of were our diplomats like Haÿalilio,
music in the past, present and (pos- we have long been a global people.
sible) future of Hawaiian society, all Luthier Kilin Reece traces the origins
anchored in the foundational role that of much of modern stringed-music
mele plays in our community. culture to Hawaiian innovators like
The first piece poses thoughtful musician Kealakai Mekia, who
questions about the future role of worked with the Martin Guitar Com-
Hawaiian music within the context pany to create what we now think of
of the global economy. Hawaiians as the iconic guitar.
are well-known for our musical cul- The third piece by, Chad Takatsugi,
ture: our ali‘i were also composers; is a snapshot of mele at the current
a major Hawaiian school has tele- time, a moment when the Hawaiian
vised singing contests; and our youth community is vibrant and alive with
regularly roam school campuses as pride and action. The Maunakea pro-
pages 10 -15
if they are troubadours, with ‘uku- tectors have awakened a new reason
leles and guitars in their arms and a and season for songwriting, which
song in their hearts. Should we try we document here.
to turn this talent and culture into Enjoy. Follow us: /oha_hawaii | /oha_hawaii | Fan us: /officeofhawaiianaffairs | Watch us: /OHAHawaii ‘okakopa2019 11
From K-pop to HI-pop
Hawaiian music is also a musical fusion, but Change is inevitable; cultures are sup-
it evolved from a completely different set of posed to grow and evolve. The beauty of
styles and genres: rock and roll, reggae, punk, K-pop is how it smuggles small doses of
and ska. While each of those had its time in Korea to people who otherwise would have
the sun in broader American pop culture, never experienced them. For a country that
none have been as expansively ubiquitous has long seen itself as small and unimport-
or titanically influential as hip-hop and gen- ant compared to its larger, more powerful
By Eric Stinton ited – and even less control over their art. eral pop music in the last few decades. The neighbors, K-pop feels like a billion-dollar
K
K-pop stars are undeniably talented per- range of sonic appeal in Hawaiian music is underdog. People from Hawai‘i can no doubt
-pop is Korea’s most visible and formers, but image is at least as important as completely different than K-pop, and likely relate to that narrative, so it’s sensible to look
wildly successful export. The con- ability and as such, it is carefully and intru- incapable of making a BTS-sized impact. to Korea as an example of how the culture
temporary conception of K-pop sively manicured. Contracts typically include Either Hawaiian music would have to fun- of a smaller people group can become an
– melodic dance jams with glitzy strict workout and dietary regiments, as well damentally transform, to an extent that it is against-the-odds success story. But given
production and hip-hop sensibili- as regular weight checks. For women, plastic no longer recognizable as Hawaiian music, Hawai‘i’s history, cultural evolution is sensi-
ties – was born in 1992 when the group Seo surgery is also a common expectation. or the type of music that becomes popular tive territory. Corporatizing Hawaiian culture
Taiji and Boys performed their song “Nan There are also the inescapable ills of everywhere else in the world would have to to be as widely consumable as possible may
Arayo” on national television. A blend of commodifying culture. While K-pop has fundamentally transform. For better or worse, not end up being something anyone wants,
dance-ready rhymes in the verses and smooth broadened exposure to Korean culture, it the kind of music that becomes popular in Känaka Maoli especially.
vocals on the hook, “Nan Arayo” is widely has also flattened how people think of it. Hawai‘i will probably always have a limited For the future of HI-pop, the success of
considered the first modern K-pop song. Sure, BTS will throw traditional palaces in reach. K-pop is instructional as both a roadmap and
Within 15 years of its birth, K-pop would the background of their music videos, and Or maybe I’m wrong. Maybe Hawaiian a warning sign.
become a global multi-billion dollar industry. Black Pink will utilize obangsaek colors music can evolve to a point that it not only
It’s tempting to look to K-pop as a model in theirs, but those are tertiary elements of transcends its geographic limits, but also Eric Stinton, 27, is a writer and teacher
for the Hawaiian music industry. K-pop has their appeal. Korean culture is used mainly influences pop culture as a whole. Maybe from Kailua who lives in Seoul, South Korea.
exposed Korean culture to a global audi- to stylize and accessorize what is otherwise artists like Kimie Miner, Kalani Pe‘a, Fiji He is a columnist for Sherdog.com and his
ence, most of whom knew very little about culturally indistinct and universal: attractive or Anuhea can crossover and reach a Bruno words occasionally appear on The Classical.
Korea beforehand. While foreign language people doing attractive things. Mars level of stardom while being a little Follow him on Twitter at @TombstoneStint
enrollment in American universities has The entire discussion about K-pop is more HI and a little less –pop. If anything, or find his writing on ericstinton.com
experienced an overall decline, Korean lan- complicated because the term itself is an Mars has pulled American pop culture closer
guage learning has increased dramatically amorphous shorthand. K-pop could perhaps to Hawai‘i than it was before.
as a direct result of K-pop’s popularity. For be classified as a genre of
‘ölelo Hawai‘i, still an endangered language entertainment, but it is not
despite the best efforts of classrooms and a genre of music. K-pop
mobile apps alike, the thought of language is simply western-style
proficiency proliferating through pop music pop music performed in
is hopeful. Korean. In that way, you
K-pop has also caused a massive increase could consider Bruno
in tourism, a perpetually relevant concern Mars an example of a
for Hawai‘i’s economy. Even if K-pop fans HI-pop star: an artist from
book a trip to Korea purely because of their Hawai‘i making pop music.
favorite idol group, once they arrive they The question then would
will be exposed to more meaningful aspects become: why aren’t there
of Korean culture and history. Music is the more Bruno Marses? From
crest of the so-called “Korean Wave,” but there, a whole different
when people are caught in a wave they are discussion emerges about
inevitably pulled back to its source, where demographics, talent brain
deeper exploration awaits. For Hawai‘i, drain, and the lack of arts
whose weather and scenery will always be education in our schools.
an unparalleled allure for tourists, the oppor- But hardly anyone would
tunity for legitimate cultural exposure is not consider Bruno Mars a
just an added economic interest; it’s a chance representative of Hawaiian
to package real education as entertainment. music in the first place.
Yet the potential upsides should not Which leads us to the
distract from the significant red flags vigor- heart of the matter: how to
ously waving throughout the K-pop world. reconcile the aesthetics of
The industry is rigid to the point of abusive, Hawaiian music with pop
known for its long-term “slave contracts,” music to create a distinct
exploitative labor practices, and unadulter- HI-pop style and sound.
ated sexism. With few exceptions, artists How does a culture, musi-
have little control over their personal lives – cal or otherwise, evolve
romantic relationships are seen as liabilities without some degree of
and often kept secret, if not outright prohib- self-deletion? Like K-pop,12 ‘okakopa2019 www.oha.org/kwo | kwo@OHA.org
NATIVE HAWAIIAN » NEWS | FEATURES | EVENTS
Globetrotter
for guitarists from original to life in 1915. This guitar will be
Gabby Pahinui to displayed side by side with the Dreadnought
Elvis Presley and guitars of Johnny Cash and the Pahinui
from Bob Marley family in a Bishop Museum exhibition set to
to Bob Dylan, it open April 2020.
is easily the most
iconic and widely In the 1960s, the Library of Congress
reproduced guitar re-issued recordings made by ethnomusicolo-
A windward O‘ahu design in the world. gists in the 1920s. These recordings formed
my first introduction to what is called Ameri-
instrument-maker The Dreadnought can “Roots” or “Folk” music. As a teenager
Martin guitar began in Berkeley, California, I checked out 10-inch
traces the footsteps its life in 1915 as vinyl records from our local Public Library,
a custom-ordered which had a complete collection of the
of an early Hawaiian “extra-large jumbo Library of Congress Folkways record label.
guitar” made for a Legends like The Carter Family, Leadbelly,
musical explorer, virtuoso Vaudeville Son House, Lightnin’ Hopkins, Doc Watson
star named Mekia and Elizabeth Cotton took turns on my turn-
and his impact on Albert Kealakai. It table bringing to life songs of hard luck rural
was the largest and America.
all modern music loudest guitar the
company had ever On subsequent research trips to the Martin
By Kilin Reece made, designed to Archives in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, I began
I
accommodate audi- swinging down to the Library of Congress
have been fortunate to work as a Luthier ences attending in Washington, D.C., hoping to find clues
and musician in windward O’ahu for close acoustic concerts about Mekia’s travels across the continent at
to two decades, making a living playing, by Mekia and his the turn of the last century. On one such visit,
building and restoring vintage acoustic orchestra as they I had a chance conversation with a librarian
stringed instruments. The word “Luthier” crisscrossed the who mentioned some very old recordings in
specifically describes one who works on United States long their collection, made by a Hawaiian string
instruments in the family of “Lutes,” consid- before the advent band around 1904 for a small record com-
ered to be the ancient ancestors to modern of microphones and pany. He offered to make me a Compact Disc
stringed instruments like the guitar and PA systems. of transfers made from the records. Later that
‘ukulele. I have always found studying the evening I loaded the CD into my rental car’s
history and genealogy of stringed instruments Born in Hono- dashboard player, and as the warble of music
to be fascinating, and over the last several lulu in 1867, Mekia making its way through 115 years of time and
years have devoted much time to researching trained under Henri space came surging through the speakers, I
this aspect of my vocation. The anatomy of Berger. He gradu- nearly crashed into the car in front of me.
stringed instruments not only bear the traces ated at age 15, What was I was hearing?
of chisel blades and saws, but also the signa- joined the Royal
tures of the cultures from which their designs Hawaiian Band as The music was immediately familiar:
originate. It has been said that Luthiers build Berger’s star pro- acoustic guitars punching out rhythm while
the “shapes that surround the sound,” craft- tege, and within fiddles and flutes played in and around the
ing every curve in an instrument’s wooden a short time was vocal lines, accented by the chop and strum
body, from the ribs and waist, to the belly, composing songs of ‘ukulele and banjo, rooted in the pulse of
back, neck and headstock. Ultimately, with with Lili‘uokalani pizzicato cello. How was it possible that a
the aid of glue, we unite all these contours and Kaläkaua, Hawaiian string band had recorded music that
under the tension, strength and energy of Mekia Kealaka‘i, circa 1914- Photo: Courtesy eventually leading sounded nearly identical to my beloved Blue-
strings to bring life to the voice that an instru- but a long running epicenter of innovation the Royal Hawaiian Band in a tour across grass music, decades before any of America’s
ment will possess. This voice, with our care and influence in the western hemisphere, the the United States in 1895. most celebrated folk recordings?
and attention, has the potential to transcend modern piko of all things stringed.
the ages, weaving in time a common thread I had the pleasure of joining Chris Martin I later learned that Lui Thompson, the
through the lives, songs and dreams of many This year marks the 186th year anniver- IV (the Martin descendant currently at the band’s leader, got his start with Mekia Keal-
generations. sary of the C.F. Martin Guitar Company, helm of the company) at the Kahala hotel in akai and his orchestra at the 1901 Buffalo
making it the oldest family-run string instru- 2016, and after sharing my research and pour- World’s Fair. By 1901, Hawaiian string
In tracing the lineages of the instruments I ment manufacturer in the United States. My ing through scrapbooks and photo albums ensembles like Lui’s had been touring the
have met in my small restoration studio here Luthiery work has been largely devoted to he agreed that Hawai‘i’s contributions to his United States for 30 years, playing vaudeville
in the shadow of the Ko‘olau mountains, and the study of instruments made by the Martin family’s legacy were pivotal, and worthy of theaters and traveling tent shows from Sac-
in listening to the many stories their owners family. As a Bluegrass guitarist, I long ago celebration. Working with the Martin custom ramento to New York. In 2018, I was able
have shared, I have arrived at a perspective found my six-string soulmate in the bold, full shop, we began recreating the “Kealakai” to work with the Library of Congress to re-
that Hawai‘i is not as an isolated outlier in the bodied sound of a guitar known as the Martin model guitar, using the molds, templates and master and release in CD format the complete
evolution of our modern global soundscape, “Dreadnought”. The instrument of choice blueprints from the archives that brought the recordings of Lui’s band, alternately callingYou can also read
