Bringing you today’s stories on issues important to Native communities.  NewsClips is a complimentary service of the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement.  For information and updates on our training workshops and events, please visit our Web site at: www.hawaiiancouncil.org.

 

 

January  18, 2006

 

 

Posted on: Friday, January 13, 2006

 

Hawaiian Homes project seeks bids

 

Advertiser Staff

 

The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is seeking bids for an initial stage of the Hawaiian Homes Trust's largest residential development to date, the East Kapolei 1 project.

 

The project will include a 403-lot subdivision, the future site of DHHL offices and an extension of Kapolei Parkway to connect with the future North-South Road.

 

The department has issued an invitation for bids for the East Kapolei 1 Mass Grading Project, which involves grading a 96.83-acre parcel.

 

A pre-bid meeting will be held at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday at DHHL's 20th-floor conference room, 1099 Alakea St. A site visit will be held at 9 a.m. Wednesday beginning at the east end of Kapolei Parkway.

 

 

 

 

January 15, 2006

 

Hawaiian Homes lots at Leiali’i awarded

Maui News

 

KAHULUI – Dowling Co. and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands awarded 104 homestead lots in the Villages of Leiali’i project at Wahikuli in West Maui on Saturday.

 

The first-ever Hawaiian Homes development in West Maui was made possible by an agreement with the state to turn over two lots in the 1,100-acre project district, which was originally developed by the Housing and Community Development Corporation of Hawaii.

 

When the state housing agency developed the first two increments in 1994, Hawaiian groups including the Office of Hawaiian Affairs opposed any sales of the lots because the project is on Hawaiian ceded lands.

 

Ceded lands are lands that had been held by the Hawaiian monarchy before the 1893 overthrow, which were taken over the Republic of Hawaii and “ceded” to the U.S. government when Hawaii was annexed in 1898.

 

The federal government turned over the lands to the state government when Hawaii was granted statehood in 1959, with conditions that included that ceded lands were “a public trust for the support of the public schools and other public educational institutions, (and) for the betterment of the conditions of Native Hawaiians.”

 

In an agreement with the state two years ago, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands acquired control of the already-developed sections of the West Maui project as well as projects on ceded lands on the Big Island and Oahu that were being developed for housing by the HCDCH.

 

Established by Congress in 1921, the Hawaiian Homes Commission/DHHL awards 99-year leases to qualified Native Hawaiians for lots to be used for residences, farming or pastures.

 

At Leiali’i, Dowling Co. was contracted to complete the development of 104 lots.

 

On Saturday at Maui High School, the company and representatives of the DHHL selected the Native Hawaiian families that will be recipients of the lots.

 

“There is a great demand from our applicants for homestead leases and affordable housing in the West Maui area,” said DHHL Chairman Micah Kane. “Leiali’i is important because it helps to address this demand.”

 

Company President Everett Dowling said he felt privileged to be part of the project that will provide homes for Native Hawaiian beneficiaries who have been on the DHHL waiting lists for 20 to 30 years.

 

Dowling Co. also has developed new homes at the Waiehu Kou subdivisions for the DHHL, including the Waiehu Kou 4 project that is under construction.

 

At Leiali’i, the company is offering six models, of two-, three- and four-bedroom homes, ranging in price from $145,000 to $250,000. Hawaiian Homes recipients lease the land for $1 a year, but the resident are responsible for the costs of the houses built on the lots. In some projects, homesteaders are being assisted in building their own homes.

 

Construction at Leiali’i will begin in February; the first homes are expected to be completed by August.

 

 

 

 

January 13, 2006

 

Akaka Continues to Address Mental Health Concern over Returning Servicemembers

 

VA Announces Kona to receive new Vet Clinic

 

Hilo, Hawaii - Officials from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) told Senator Daniel K. Akaka today the current veterans clinic in Kona is too small and will establish a more adequate clinic by mid-2006.

 

This news came as Senator Akaka, Ranking Member on the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, concluded field hearings on the "State of VA Care in Hawaii." Much of today’s hearing focused on mental health care services provided to returning servicemembers.

 

Recently, the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Residential Rehabilitation Program (PRRP) that provided services to patients with shut down. VA determined that approximately 830 veterans were treated at the center. VA said it moved the PRRP from Hilo to Honolulu to provide enhanced mental health services to veterans with both acute and chronic PTSD.

 

Katherine King, a disabled veteran and Big Island resident who testified before the panel, said, "PTSD victims do not schedule when they are going to have an episode, it is not an 8am to 4pm disorder. There are no 24-hour-services available because of the recent removal of the PRRP program, veterans like myself with PTSD and other Mental Health issues, tend to self medicate because the pain inside becomes so great, it is either self medicate, or suicide."

 

VA Under Secretary for Health, Jonathan Perlin stated, "VA expects a significant cohort of Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom veterans with acute PTSD or Acute Stress Disorder to seek services from VA. Most of these veterans reside in Oahu and the best treatment for them is outpatient care that integrates treatment with their families and community."

 

VA estimates up to 15,000 Hawaii residents have been deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq as active duty personnel, Reservists, and Hawaii National Guard personnel. Nine of every 10 soldiers in the Hawaii Army National Guard have been activiated to serve in Iraq and Afghanistan.

 

"The earlier a veteran receives care after separation from the military, the greater the likelihood the veteran will not have long-term problems," stated Senator Akaka. "We not only need to be looking at servicemembers but also their parents, spouses and family members."

 

The U.S. Senate recently passed the Vet Center Enhancement Act, sponsored by Senator Akaka, which authorizes VA to hire more Global War on Terror Outreach Coordinators; gives VA authority to administer bereavement counseling at Vet Centers; and authorizes $180 million for Vet Centers.

 

Senator Akaka returns to Washington D.C. this weekend for the start of the second-half of the 109th Congress.

 

 

 

 

Posted on: Thursday, January 12, 2006

 

Conference helps soften opposition to Akaka bill

 

By Will Hoover
Advertiser Staff Writer

 

A leadership forum that brought together members of indigenous groups ended yesterday with a sense of softening in the resistance among some Hawaiians to the Akaka bill.

 

The shift was due in part to a strong feeling of unity in self-determination and self-governance among the groups represented at the three-day forum held at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Groups included Native Americans, Native Alaskans, Maori and Native Hawaiians. Photo courtesy of the Honolulu Advertiser: Richard Ambo

 

"I still have reservations about the Akaka bill because I think we should have more," said Ho'oipo Kalaena'auao Pa, president of the Native Hawaiian Advisory Council. "I'm personally in favor of independence. But I'm hoping that at least it will open a door."

 

The proposed legislation is officially known as the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act. It would establish a process for the 400,000 Native Hawaiians in the United States to be formally recognized by the federal government as an indigenous people. Native Hawaiians could then decide to pursue a sovereign government that could negotiate with the federal government over land use and other rights.

 

William Aila, a Hawaiian activist who has opposed the Akaka bill, said, "I think more Hawaiians are looking at this from a practical standpoint. As a practical matter, what other alternatives are there?"

 

Aila was encouraged by the commitment from Native Americans and Native Alaskans to offer legal and political assistance to Native Hawaiians.

 

"Our Native Alaskan brothers and Native American brothers have emphasized the need for us to get together and to speak with a unified voice," he said.

 

Sen. Daniel K. Akaka, D-Hawai'i, the bill's sponsor, yesterday told the forum that the bill aims to clarify the legal and political relationship between the U.S. government and Native Hawaiians and offers federal recognition similar to that of Native Americans and Native Alaskans.

 

Akaka said he is confident that the bill will reach the floor of the Senate during the upcoming legislative session. The bill was expected to be aired on the Senate floor last summer but stalled when Congress diverted its attention to Hurricane Katrina.

 

"Native Hawaiians continue to look at our Native American and Alaskan Native brethren ... as examples of what can be achieved for our people," Akaka said. "As it has done for our other native peoples, I really believe the United States must fulfill its responsibility to Native Hawaiians."

 

The Native Leadership Forum, sponsored by the California-based American Indian Resources Institute, was held in conjunction with the Native Hawaiian Leadership Conference, sponsored by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. To allow people to attend both events, forum meetings were held during mornings and conference meetings in afternoons.

 

William Souza, of the Royal Order of Kamehameha I, echoed the sentiment of many Hawaiians who attended the events.

 

"There are a lot of things we can learn from their progress," Souza said of the Native Americans and Native Alaskans. "We're looking at how they have successfully moved into an area where we are trying to find our way into."

 

One forum speaker, Charles Wilkinson, professor of law at the University of Colorado, has been a consultant for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. He maintains that Native Hawaiians would be in a position to make important strides if the Akaka bill becomes law.

 

Wilkinson, who groups Native Hawaiians with "modern Indian nations," noted that while Native Americans, Native Alaskans and Native Hawaiians all have different histories, "the commonality is unbelievable."

 

He added, "The shared sense of the love of the land, of the culture, of sovereignty, is very powerful in Hawaiians."

 

Reach Will Hoover at whoover@honoluluadvertiser.com.

 

 

 

 

January 16, 2006

 

CNHA's Public Policy Center--Connecting Community to Decision-Makers

The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement announces the official opening of its Public Policy Center.  The Center focuses on national and local issues affecting Native Hawaiian communities, with goals to foster a better informed community, facilitate meaningful consultation between the community and appropriate government officials, and equip the community to fully engage in the public policy-making process.
 
“We view the center as a clearinghouse of information and contacts--putting the right people together with the right information and resources is one of our key focus areas,” said Jade Danner, CNHA Vice President.  "Formalizing our work in the public policy arena into a Center is really the outgrowth of CNHA's work to date, and a demand from the community for more of it." Inviting a few member and community groups, the Public Policy Center held four consultations with key government officials in order to gauge interest in the consultation process from both the policy-maker and community sides.  The responses have been very positive and participants expressed appreciation for the access they have gained to important information and contacts within the community and key governmental bodies.
 
The Public Policy Center also launched its e-product with a release on January 16, 2006, which includes a new service, Community Meetings & Consultation, as well as CNHA’s 3-year-old BillTracker product.  The Community Meetings & Consultation service assists organizations needing community input to plan, coordinate and facilitate meaningful input to guide future decision-making.  Such meetings and consultations provide opportunities for the community to become more involved and engaged in shaping the public policy that affects them.
 
The Public Policy Center’s e-releases are scheduled for regular monthly distributions on the last Monday of the month.  If you would like to receive e-releases from CNHA’s Public Policy Center, please subscribe to the BillTracker product by clicking here.

If your organization is interested in partnering with CNHA’s Public Policy Center in a specific area of public policy, please contact the Center at 808.521.5011 or via e-mail at info@hawaiiancouncil.org.

 

 

 

January 11, 2006

 

Administration for Native Americans Grant Workshops in the Pacific

 

Honolulu, HI – The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA) completed the first half of its annual round of grant training on one of the country’s most notable funding programs supporting social and economic development.  The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) houses the Administration for Native Americans (ANA) grant programs focused on all of the indigenous peoples in the United States and Pacific territories.  CNHA is the Pacific Region’s training provider for HHS and has traveled around the state of Hawaii, American Samoa, Guam and Saipan to assist communities to develop viable and sustainable community projects.

 

“ANA is one of the best community programs administered by the federal government,” stated Robin Puanani Danner, CNHA President & CEO.  “It is responsible for literally thousands of projects across the country, changing lives and entire communities.  ANA’s approach and value of the cultural assets and languages of our nation’s indigenous peoples in addressing community challenges is at the heart of the programs’ success.”   

 

In preparation for the 2006 proposal deadline, six workshops have been held to date in the Pacific by CNHA and ten more are planned through the first quarter of 2006.  So far, more than 60 organizations have received training in proposal development, project planning and assessing project sustainability.  Participants that have attended the training sessions report a 4.75 on a scale of 1-5 with 5 representing highly comprehensive and useful, when asked to evaluate the training.

 

“We recognize that community organizations are challenged with deadlines, working with largely volunteer boards and focused on the day to day operations of their programs,” said Lilia Kapuniai, Managing Vice President of CNHA’s Training Institute.  “Its important to our Training Institute staff that the sessions provide the best information available and that we maximize the time of each participant in taking time away from their communities.”

 

Many participants bring their community project proposals to the training sessions to obtain a technical review by CNHA’s training staff.  Over the past four years, CNHA has noticed an increase in the number of proposals reaching the final funding round and receiving funding from ANA.  In 2005, ANA awarded $7 million to grantees in the Pacific Region on social and economic development projects ranging from a koa canoe restoration project to teacher certification courses.

 

ANA offers three grant programs to eligible organizations in the Pacific: Social and Economic Development Strategies (SEDS), Language Maintenance and Preservation and the Improving the Well-Being of Children/Native American Healthy Marriage Initiative (NAHMI).  The grant deadline in 2006 will be posted on Grants.gov and is anticipated to be March 8th for Language and April 4th for SEDS and NAHMI.  For more information on grant eligibility, or how organizations can apply for funds from ANA, contact CNHA at 521.5011 on Oahu or toll-free at 800.709.2642, send us an e-mail at info@anapacific.org or visit our website at www.anapacific.org 

 

The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement is a national, member-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting community development in Native communities.  For more information about CNHA, please contact us or visit our website at www.hawaiiancouncil.org.

 

 

 

 

Posted on: Wednesday, January 18, 2006

Bold plan: Build 15,000 affordable homes

 

By James Gonser

Advertiser Urban Honolulu Writer

 

An ambitious plan calls for spending $78 million this year and $286 million more over the next five years to provide affordable homes for Hawai'i residents and services for homeless people.

 

The Joint Legislative Housing and Homeless Task Force yesterday issued its report, which has a goal of building 10,000 to 15,000 affordable units within five years. Its spending proposal includes $40 million to support homeless shelters and service providers.

 

The building plan would dwarf recent government-supported affordable housing construction, which has resulted in about 2,000 new units since 1992.

 

A lack of affordable housing has become one of the most pressing economic issues of the decade, with skyrocketing home prices, soaring rents and a growing homeless population. Funding for public housing dried up in the 1980s and more than 20,000 people are on waiting lists to get in.

 

"If the Legislature and the governor take the task force findings to heart and work to enact these recommendations, I believe we will make substantial progress in addressing the issues of affordable housing and homelessness," said task force co-chairman Sen. Ron Menor, D-17th (Mililani, Waipi'o).

 

The task force, formed last session to study Hawai'i's housing problem, proposes tapping the state's $574 million budget surplus to finance its recommendations.

 

Approximately 32 percent of the state's more than 400,000 households pay in excess of  30 percent of their income for shelter, according to the report. An estimated 44,190 new homes (32,580 on O'ahu) are projected to be needed by 2009 to satisfy pent-up demand. Of those, 21,890 units (15,590 on O'ahu) are needed for low-income households.

 

The recommendations include increasing the portion of the conveyance tax allocated to the state's Rental Housing Trust Fund - which sets aside money collected from real estate transactions to build rental housing - from its current 30 percent to 50 percent. That would result in enough money to build 2,300 rental units over five years.

 

The task force wants to increase the low-income household renters' tax credit from $50 to $100 and appropriate $20 million for homeless services this year and another $5 million a year over the next five years. Gov. Linda Lingle has already proposed using $20 million of the state surplus to repair and expand homeless shelters.

 

About $10 million would be earmarked to repair the 825 vacant units -  about 13.3 percent of the 6,233 total units - in federal and state public housing projects that are now unlivable and unoccupied.

 

"I am especially proud of the recommendations devoted to assisting our homeless residents and others in dire need of shelter and housing services," said co-chairman Rep. Michael Kahikina, D-44th (Nanakuli, Honokai Hale). "A substantial part of our solution set deals with upgrading and expanding low-income rentals and public housing. We need to set aside a substantial portion of the state surplus for affordable housing."

 

The task force, which includes Menor and Kahikina along with Sens. Rosalyn Baker, Gary Hooser and Paul Whalen, and Reps. Ezra Kanoho, Scott Nishimoto and Chris Halford, conducted site visits, public hearings and meetings, and roundtable discussions to develop its report. The group will introduce a package of bills to pursue their recommendations.

 

The Rev. Bob Nakata, a former state senator who now works with the homeless, said the report's recommendations are needed to help people in desperate situations.

 

"It's really something to celebrate," Nakata said. "We are moving in the right direction."

 

 

 

 

January 18, 2006

 

HOAP Happens in Kaneohe

 

45 people attended an orientation session about the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) Home Ownership Assistance Program (HOAP) at King Intermediate School in Kaneohe on January 11, 2006.  The animated crowd learned about the origins of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, its principal champion, Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole, and about services available to them under HOAP.  Session participants also received an update about DHHL’s estimated development schedule on O‘ahu.

 

Facilitated by the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement’s Vice President Jade Danner, the 45-minute presentation was followed by a lively question and answer period and a raffle drawing for 4 door prizes sponsored by Bank of Hawaii, including a dvd player and an electric grill.

 

Lehua Bolton regarded the presentation as “knowledgeable, down to earth and easy to relate to.”  “It was very informative,” says Margaret Simmons, and Blossom Faufata “enjoyed the summary on Prince Kuhio.”

 

 “It is awesome to see the community engaged and eager for information,” says Danner, “and to have representatives from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, the homebuyer education and counseling providers, Bank of Hawaii and other lending institutions all come together to make sure that these folks get the information they need to realize the dream of homeownership.”

 

HOAP provides an Information Call Center to connect people to homeownership resources and providers of homebuyer education and financial literacy courses, one-on-one counseling and answers to frequently asked questions.  Orientation sessions will be held at the Kekaha Neighborhood Center on Kauai on January 25, and at Stevenson Middle School in Honolulu on February 1.  Sessions begin at 6:00 pm.  For more information about these sessions or HOAP, please contact the Information Call Center toll free at 1-866-897-4384, via e-mail at info@dhhlhoap.org or visit the website at www.dhhlhoap.org.

 

 

 

 

January 17, 2006

 

Delegates go forth with new vision for Alaska

By DIANA CAMPBELL
Staff Writer

 

Tuesday, January 17, 2006 - As the Conference of Young Alaskans drew to a close, the parting words of the 55 delegates took the tone of a graduation.

 

Keep in touch, they urged. Remember what we learned here this weekend, they said.

 

See some of you in the Legislature, they predicted. And we won't forget our vision for Alaska, they promised.

 

They were in every way what the authors of Alaska's Constitution said they would be 50 years ago--Alaska's children.

 

"Really, I didn't think I was going to come back to Alaska after college," said Katherine Marquette, a West Valley High School senior. "After this weekend, I will definitely be coming back to Alaska."

 

The group--which began discussions about Alaska's future Friday as part of activities planned by the University of Alaska's Creating Alaska project--grappled with and ultimately voted on what they would like to see happen with Alaska's natural resources, leadership, education system, health and the Alaska dream. Their final report will be delivered to Gov. Frank Murkowski, the Legislature and public leaders.

 

The delegates were given a lot of reading material by conference organizers, but they debated their viewpoint with uncommon intelligence, onlookers remarked.

 

"I don't have to worry about Alaska's future anymore," said Katie Hurley, 84, who was the chief clerk at the Alaska Constitutional Convention.

 

The delegates easily passed packages on education and leadership, which included calling for mentor programs, a leadership partner program and a study for the need of regional high schools.

 

They asked that all school boards have student representation and that teachers be provided incentives to help students achieve excellence. They also want Alaska history and Alaska Native studies to be included in school curriculums.

 

It wasn't all roses during the convention, however. Monday morning, the delegates sparred over opening the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil drilling, banning aerial wolf control, repealing the marriage amendment outlawing same-sex marriages and asking the state to take over the UA land trust.

 

"If there are severe generational gaps, we should acknowledge that," said Jenna Gruenstein, an Anchorage delegate, as the group went back and forth on issues.

 

In the end, the delegates kept the provision to allow ANWR drilling, voted to repeal the marriage amendment, dropped asking for a ban on aerial wolf hunts and voted to leave the UA system the way it is now.

 

Rep. Mary Kapsner, D-Bethel, gave the last speech of the conference.

 

"My hope is that this won't be a weekend of thinking of Alaska's future," she said, "but a political and professional lifetime of working."

 

Most delegates agreed.

 

"Was the conference important? Absolutely not," said Matt Moon of Anchorage. "What's more important is what we do after the conference. Are we going to talk or are you going to do something?"

 

Diana Campbell can be reached at 459-7523 or dcampbell@newsminer.com .

 

 

 

 

January 16, 2006

 

Kamehameha Schools’ Preschool Program Application Deadline – January 31, 2006

 

What:  Just a reminder to the Kamehameha `Ohana that the deadline for applications for Kamehameha’s preschool program is Tuesday, JANUARY 31, 2006 (for the 2006-2007 school year).

 

Deadline/Application Drop Off:  Applications must be received by January 31st to be considered “on-time”.  Applications can be dropped off at any one of the following locations:

 

 

To mail your application:  If you cannot get to one of these locations by January 31st, applications may be mailed.  However, the envelope MUST BE POSTMARKED by January 31st (or earlier) to be considered “on-time”.  Applications NOT delivered to one of the locations listed above, or post-marked AFTER January 31st will be considered “late.”

 

To request an application:  If you or someone you know would like to obtain an application, it’s not too late!  To request an application on-line contact them via email at:  admissions@ksbe.edu

 

Or contact them via telephone by calling 842-8800 (O`ahu), 572-3133 (Maui), 982-0100 (Hawai`i) or toll-free at 1-800-842-4682 x8800 (neighbor islands).

 

For more information about the admissions process:  www.ksbe.edu/admissions/

 

 

 

 

Posted on: Saturday, January 14, 2006

 

Waimea Valley preserved

 

By Will Hoover
Advertiser Staff Writer

 

A consortium of government agencies and nonprofits is buying Waimea Valley for $14 million and will keep it undeveloped.

 

Following a flurry of activity and closed-door meetings yesterday, government officials announced an out-of-court settlement that ended the dispute for control of the North Shore valley.

 

The future of the valley, which many people consider a cultural treasure, had been in doubt since New York investor Christian Wolffer acquired it in 1996.

 

Mayor Mufi Hannemann said the deal won't cost the city "one penny more" than the $5 million it put into escrow in 2001 to buy the land through condemnation.

 

"This historic agreement will allow us to preserve one of the most pristine and treasured ahupua'a on O'ahu for future generations," the mayor said.

 

The other groups financing the deal are the U.S. Army, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources and the National Audubon Society.

 

Reaction was immediate.

 

"Today, one of the great treasures of the Islands — a living ahupua'a, a connection to Hawai'i's proud past and our future — has been saved from development," said Michael North, president of the Stewards of Waimea Valley.

 

Hannemann said the city would obtain a conservation and public access easement in perpetuity over the valley.

 

"Today," Hannemann said, "the mediator, Clyde Matsui, worked out an out-of-court settlement, which Circuit Court Judge Gary Chang approved."

 

He praised the consortium participants who, along with the city and county, were involved in purchasing the valley.

 

But William McCorriston, attorney for Wolffer, said at a news conference at his office said that much of the credit for the successful conclusion goes to Hannemann himself, because he took the time to sit down and explain to Wolffer how much the valley means to the people of Hawai'i.

 

"I can't emphasize enough that the mayor, in my opinion, took the lead and did an outstanding job," McCorriston said.

 

He added that Wolffer's dream had been to one day own a home in the valley, which McCorriston said Wolffer had come to love. But he said Wolffer changed his mind after visiting with the mayor.

Wolffer made the deal even though he was convinced the value of the land was actually around $20 million, the lawyer said.

 

McCorriston said the deal is expected to be finalized between mid-March and the first of July. The only official action that needs to happen is an approval vote by the city council.

 

Hannemann, who also thanked the council for its efforts in protecting the valley, said he was sure the council would approve the settlement.

 

Council Chairman Donovan Dela Cruz also expressed his satisfaction with the agreement.

 

"It was a long and bumpy road getting here," said Dela Cruz, who represents District 2, which includes Waimea. "It's like a win, win, win, win situation. It keeps the valley whole."

 

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs will take ownership of the property and operate it in partnership with the valley's current manager, the Audubon Society, Hannemann said.

 

Hannemann had special thanks for the U.S. Army and the Trust for Public Land, which he said came came up with the remaining funds when it looked as if the participants would fall short of what was needed to acquire the land.

 

"We look forward to this being the first of many such projects we're able to accomplish with the money that's given to us through the Army Environmental Center to seed these types of opportunities," Army Col. Howard J. Killian said.

 

Killian had earlier said the military likes to preserve buffer zones near its training grounds, such as one nearby in Kahuku.

 

The day began when the council convened on short notice in an unusual emergency meeting to consider the terms of a new settlement proposal.

 

Seven members of the council met briefly in executive session to be briefed by the city's first deputy corporation counsel, Donna Woo, and then left without discussing what had happened with members of the media.

 

Woo told reporters that she and everyone involved were under a court order to refrain from discussing the settlement at the risk of going to jail.

 

The Waimea Valley debate came to a dramatic head at a highly charged city council meeting on Dec. 7, when the nine council members unanimously voted to reject a settlement proposal submitted to the city by Attractions Hawaii.

 

That proposal would have split the valley between the city and Wolffer — giving the city the lower 300 acres, and Wolffer keeping the remaining upper 1,575 acres.

 

A parade of individuals and groups loudly voiced their opposition to the settlement, saying they feared it would lead to development in the valley.

 

Wolffer acquired the valley in 1996 when he became principal owner of Attractions Hawaii, which owned the valley and Sea Life Park.

 

Wolffer sold Sea Life Park but kept the valley, promising to keep it intact. However, the community became alarmed when Wolffer later tried to sell it as a private residence.

 

Following the council's Dec. 7 vote rejecting the settlement proposal, the city prepared to go to trial on Feb. 13 to let the courts decide the valley's fair market value, which Wolffer said was more than $18 million.

 

However, on Dec. 9, Hannemann said he would negotiate an out-of-court settlement to preserve the valley without enduring a court battle.

 

"This is a happy day for everyone," said Peter Young, chairman of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, after the mayor's announcement.

 

"The message from the community was loud and clear, that they wanted us to do the right thing. We obviously feel that happened.

 

"Equally important, we did it the right way — through a partnership with the city, the state, the federal agencies, OHA and Audubon. I'm hopeful that in the future we'll be able to continue partnerships like this."

 

Reach Will Hoover at whoover@honoluluadvertiser.com.

 

BUYING WAIMEA

 

A consortium of public and private groups agreed to contribute money to buy Waimea Valley:

 

*The trust participated in the mediation process but did not contribute any money.

 

 

January 17, 2006


County of Hawai’i Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Commission

Island-Wide Community Meetings


Several informational meetings will be held to gather community suggestions to develop a prioritized list of lands for possible acquisition by the County for the following purposes:  

 

 

The public is encouraged to attend and provide suggestions at the following sites from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Jan. 18 (Wed.) Hisaoka Gym, N. Kohala
Jan. 19 (Thur.) Yano Hall, S. Kona
Jan. 20 (Fri.)  Na‘alehu Clubhouse, Ka‘u
Jan. 23 (Mon.) Kona Mayor’s Office, N. Kona
Jan. 25 (Wed.) Waimea Community Center, S. Kohala
Jan. 25 (Wed.) Honoka‘a Gym Annex, Hamakua
Jan. 26 (Thur.) Hawai‘i County Council Room, S. Hilo
Jan. 27 (Fri.) HOVE Community Center, Ka‘u
Jan. 30 (Mon.) Kea‘au Community Center, Puna
Jan. 31 (Tue.) Pahoa Community Center, Puna
Feb. 2 (Thur.) Papa‘aloa Annex, N. Hilo


For further information contact: Cathy Minor at 961-8251

 

 

 

 

January 11, 2006

 

Hawaii Life Sciences Council and Hawaii Technology Trade Association Combine to Form Hawaii Science and Technology Council

 

Honolulu- -The Hawaii Life Sciences Council (HLSC) and the Hawaii Technology Trade Association (HTTA) will combine their strengths to create a unified voice for Hawaii's science and technology industries. The new organization will be called the Hawaii Science and Technology Council (Hawaii S&T Council).

 

The alliance of the two non-profits was finalized on January 6 in a combined board meeting. The Council will focus on growing Hawaii's technology industry in key areas of strength: Life Sciences, Defense and Dual-Use Technologies, Information and Communication Technologies, and Energy-related Technologies.

 

The mission of the new organization said Lisa Gibson, President of the newly formed organization, is to accelerate the growth of Hawaii's science and technology industry in order to create living wage jobs and diversify our economy.

 

"Hawaii's technology industry has grown rapidly over the last few years, and by aligning our efforts, we will be able to deliver more for the industry, more efficiently and effectively", said Gibson.

 

The main reason behind the alliance, said Hawaii S&T Council Vice President for Government and Community Relations, Ann Chung, is to provide a unified voice for the technology community. However, she noted, by uniting both organizations, economies of scale would kick in to save money on both administration as well as key programmatic areas impacting all of science and technology such as workforce development, capital formation, community outreach and education.

 

"This is something the community has been wanting for some time", said Chung. "To truly build this industry, collaboration is key. Not only is there a great deal of convergence between tech sectors, but many issues overlap. There is strength in numbers, and together, we will make a greater impact."

 

The new Hawaii S&T Council will be governed by a 28 member board. 2006 officers are Dew-Anne Langcaon, Board Chair, David Watumull, President Hawaii Biotech, Chair Elect, Kirk Belsby Vice President for Endowment, Kamehameha Schools,Vice Chair, Rick Holasek, Vice President NovaSol, Vice Chair and Al Fernandes, Partner KMH LLP, Secretary/Treasurer.

 

Gibson stated that the new organization has raised nearly $500,000 in initial operating funds for 2006.

 

 

 

 

Posted on: Wednesday, January 18, 2006

 

Judge sets Ayau free to participate in talks

 

By Gordon Y.K. Pang
Advertiser Staff Writer

 

The legal battle over 83 priceless Hawaiian cultural items entered a new phase yesterday.

 

Edward Halealoha Ayau, the executive director for Hui Malama I Na Kupuna O Hawai'i Nei, was released from jail after three weeks, and two Hawaiian leaders were named as facilitators for a mediation process that the court and the parties involved hope will result in a settlement outside of traditional judicial means.

 

"This is an issue for Hawaiians to decide," U.S. District Judge David Ezra said, adding that while it gives Hawaiians a chance to show they can work together despite a history of disharmony, it also provides "an opportunity to fail. I don't believe — I hope that isn't the case."

 

Ezra ordered Ayau released under supervision from the Federal Detention Center, in large part so he can participate in the closed-door mediation process that is likely to begin next week. Ayau had been incarcerated since Dec. 27 after refusing to give Ezra information about the location of the artifacts.

 

Sitting just outside the Federal Building courtyard yesterday with Kainani Kahaunaele, his wife of less than six months, Ayau said his three weeks in jail made him more committed to the cause of Hui Malama, inspired by the support he and the organization received.

 

He could see the supporters who held vigils for him twice a day across the street from the detention center, although he could not hear them, he said.

 

He also received a string of letters from supporters. "They said they thought what I was doing was the right thing, and to remain steadfast," he said. "It was very humbling to me to have people I didn't even know praying for me."

 

Meanwhile, U.S. Magistrate Kevin Chang, who is helping Ezra with the mediation of the case, announced that two men with ties to Kamehameha Schools — Nainoa Thompson and Earl Kawaa — would be the facilitators or mediators for the process. Chang said the court chose the two after the parties failed to agree on a mediator, or mediators, on their own.

 

Thompson is the famed non-instrument navigator of the Hokule'a and president of the Polynesian Voyaging Society. He recently was appointed by the federal Probate Court to a second, five-year term as a Kamehameha trustee. His father was the late Myron "Pinky" Thompson, also a trustee when the Kamehameha Schools trust was known as Bishop Estate.

 

Kawaa, according to Kamehameha officials, is a family education specialist and Waimanalo site coordinator for the school's Hi'ilani program, which provides early childhood and family education, especially to those with children up to 3 years old. He formerly was with the Queen Lili'uokalani Trust.

 

The court is giving the parties a "target date" of Feb. 24 to reach agreement.

 

"It is significant that the court recognizes and encourages a Hawaiian mediation process," Chang said, adding that, if successful, it could be used as a precedent for other cases.

 

LAWSUIT SEEKS RETURN

 

The Bishop Museum and Hui Malama were sued by two other Native Hawaiian organizations seeking the return of the cultural objects, which were transferred by the museum to Hui Malama in late 2000. Rather than returning them, as has been requested by the museum, Hui Malama officials said they have been buried in caves on the Big Island from where they were taken in 1905 by Western explorers.

 

Na Lei Alii Kawananakoa and the Royal Hawaiian Academy of Traditional Arts want the items returned, arguing they they and other groups have not had an opportunity to weigh in on what should happen with the items.

 

Ezra first jailed Ayau after finding him in civil contempt of court for refusing to disclose the exact location of the 83 items. Ayau said it would go against his religious and cultural beliefs to do so.

 

PRESENCE 'HELPFUL'

 

The court has "no genuine, practical reason" to keep Ayau imprisoned if he is willing to participate in mediation proceedings in good faith, Ezra said. "I think it would be helpful to have Mr. Ayau attend those."

 

The judge made it clear yesterday that Ayau remains in contempt and, as a result, will be confined to his home in central Moloka'i and his whereabouts at all times monitored electronically via Global Positioning System technology.

 

Ezra released Ayau yesterday under the condition that he stay on O'ahu until the monitoring system is set up, which is expected to be done tomorrow. The judge also said he expects good behavior on the part of Ayau, Hui Malama and their supporters during the supervised release.

 

Barefoot and wearing prison-issued white T-shirt and blue pants, his tabi-like footwear in his hands, Ayau clearly did not expect to leave jail yesterday. He fielded a seemingly endless stream of cellular telephone calls from well-wishers. He seemed more relaxed and at ease than he had been in the months leading up to his incarceration.

 

The usually stoic Ayau laughed when asked what he and his supporters would be doing after leaving the courthouse and meeting with attorneys.

 

"I like eat Pake food," he said, noting that he is part-Chinese and partial to honey-glazed walnut shrimp.

 

'JUST HARD-HEADED'

 

Some had called him a martyr for going to jail, but it is a label he continues to refuse, saying that is "shifting of the focus from the kupuna to me," Ayau said. "I'm just hard-headed. My parents are hard-head. They taught us right from wrong; they taught us to stand up for what we believe is right."

 

His work for the organization also was uppermost in his mind, he said.

 

Despite not having access to a computer, Ayau said, he also had a lot of time to write — time he devoted to writing grants requests for Hui Malama.

 

"Why would I waste my time? I'm very anal," he said. "My mind's gotta be busy, otherwise I get nuts. So I was just writing out, thinking through things that gotta be done, trying to stay active. Your mind can be your best friend in prison; it can be your worst enemy. So you've gotta stay positive."

 

Ayau, who turns 42 on Feb. 8, said the first thing he will do when he returns to Moloka'i tomorrow will be to visit his parents. "They're the reason for my being," he said.

 

Ezra said that as the mediation process ensues under Chang's direction, he will continue on a "dual track" of locating the objects. Earlier this week, he named two engineering firms to begin looking at the structural integrity of the Kawaihae Cave, one of the two caves where the objects were believed to have been placed.

 

That's considered to be the first step toward the court actually going into the cave to remove the items, an action Hui Malama has objected to strenuously.

 

Ezra said that while he is required to move in that direction, "that doesn't mean I have to move quickly."

 

'PREFERRED MODE'

 

Officials with both Hui Malama and the groups suing it said that they look forward to mediation and that they had wanted to resolve their differences outside the courtroom before the lawsuit was filed last summer.

 

"It's important that people sit down and discuss these things," said La'akea Suganuma, president of the Royal Hawaiian Academy of Traditional Arts.

 

"We were ready for mediation from Day 1," Ayau said. "That would have been our preferred mode of dealing with this."

 

The ground rules for the mediation, as well as exactly who will be sitting at the table, have yet to be determined and are expected to be decided during the first few meetings, attorneys said.

 

Reach Gordon Y.K. Pang at gpang@honoluluadvertiser.com.

 

 

 

 

Posted on: Friday, January 13, 2006

 

Dispute delivers praise and scorn to Hui Malama

 

By Gordon Y.K. Pang
Advertiser Staff Writer

 

The leaders of Hui Malama I Na Kupuna O Hawai'i Nei say that since forming about 17 years ago, the group has taken possession of the remains of more than 5,90 Photo courtesy of the Honolulu Advertiser: Richard Ambo0 ancestral Hawaiians and reburied more than 2,900 sets of remains in or near their original burial sites.

 

It also has reinterred hundreds of items that the group calls funerary objects — some from museums around the globe, from Australia to Zurich.

 

Much of this work has been done in relative obscurity.

 

That changed late last month, when Hui Malama leader Edward Halealoha Ayau was jailed by U.S. District Judge David Ezra for refusing to disclose the precise whereabouts of 83 priceless cultural objects that make up most of what's known as the Forbes Collection.

 

At the center of the dispute, which has been bubbling in Hawaiian circles for years, is the issue of a permanent home for the objects, which include a famous wooden female figure and several renowned stick 'aumakua.

Advertiser library photo.

To comply with Ezra's order, Ayay said, would fly against his religious and cultural beliefs.

 

A large contingent of Hawaiians are supporting Hui Malama. Vigils are held every morning and night across the street from the Federal Detention Center where Ayau has been locked up since Dec. 27.

 

Supporters say that the group was right to reinter the Forbes items and that to disturb them would be a mistake. Opponents say Hui Malama was wrong to rebury them when 14 recognized claimants to the items had not decided collectively on final disposition as required under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act.

 

A key status conference today could determine if the matter can be settled by the parties out of court and through a traditional Hawaiian form of dispute resolution.

 

 

PRAISE AND CRITICISM

 

Over the years, Hui Malama's efforts have drawn praise for filling a void in the Hawaiian movement and making people aware of practices that otherwise might have been forgotten. But there have also been murmurs of criticism that Hui Malama overstepped its charge and is too dismissive of groups with different views on how to honor ancestors.

 

The group formed in late 1988 during a controversy involving the removal of more than 1,100 sets of human remains found at the construction site of a Maui resort. Following protests by Hawaiians, a deal was worked out allowing the remains to be reburied where they were found while the Ritz Carlton Kapalua was forced to move inland away from the graves.

 

Charles Kauluwehi Maxwell Sr., Hui Malama president, said that first repatriation effort ranks among the greatest experiences of his life.

 

When it was done, "several of us couldn't sleep for days," Maxwell said. "It was such an emotional high to have helped your kupuna continue their journey. It was indescribable."

 

Dennis "Bumpy" Kanahele, head of the Nation of Hawai'i and Pu'uhonua o Waimanalo Village, is among Hui Malama's biggest supporters. He believes that the group's hard work has not received the recognition it deserves for the service it has provided for the Hawaiian community.

 

"Nobody wanted the job, brah, nobody even thought about it," said Kanahele, a distant relative to the late Edward Kanahele, co-founder of Hui Malama.

 

Kanahele said he and his two organizations, which are among the 14 claimants to the Forbes objects, participated in the repatriation of remains in Windward O'ahu and worked closely with Hui Malama members. "For me, I learned through Hui Malama how to do pohaku (hard as stone) work. I learned chants, I learned prayers that would protect the people who were doing the actual work."

 

Critics have also pointed an accusatory finger at Hui Malama's ability to obtain grant money for its operations and questioned what they have spent the money on.

 

According to annual federal 990 tax forms required of all nonprofits, Hui Malama reported total income of $1.04 million, mostly from grants, from 1993 to 2002.

 

Hui Malama leaders maintain that they work on a voluntary basis and receive no compensation for their time. Much of the funds go toward paying for airfare to and from where items are being recovered, materials associated with reburials such as those relating to the making of tombs, and workshops that teach others about Hui Malama's practices, they said.

 

The group does not get paid for every repatriation, they said.

 

Van Horn Diamond, a member of the O'ahu Island Burial Council, has a different take on the group.

 

Diamond said that eight years ago, when he and other claimants in a case involving burial remains at Mokapu on the Windward side disagreed with Hui Malama and other claimants, things got hostile. The claimants still have not agreed to a plan for final disposition.

 

The friction began, Diamond said, when Hui Malama tried to exert pressure on other claimants to speed up finishing a burial plan in order to meet a deadline to qualify for a federal funding source. Diamond and others seeking a slower path felt money could be found at a later date.

 

"One of the shortcomings of Hui Malama is they seem not to know the difference between expediting something and expediency," Diamond said. "They always seem to be in a rush. And when you get caught up in that rush thing, you're going to lose out on certain details and it's going to come back and bite you in the butt."

 

ARTIFACTS AND BONES

 

Hui Malama's current court entanglement does not involve human remains but objects that had been found in the caves with them. But the protocol espoused by Hui Malama is firm in the belief that they are one in the same.

 

"Take the artifacts, you take the iwi with them," said Pualani Kanahele, Hui Malama's spiritual leader. "They go together because you're doing just as much harm to the iwi if you only take the artifacts. And it's still grave robbing."

 

Some of Hui Malama's critics have questioned the group's protocols and rituals.

 

Among them is Cy Kamuela Harris, one of the claimants to the Forbes objects who opposes Hui Malama.

 

Harris, who described himself as a member of the Temple of Lono, said he and others have attempted to talk to Hui Malama's leaders and have been refused.

 

"We have constantly asked and tried to sit down and talk and tell them 'you know, this is not right what you do; you're not following traditional Hawaiian concepts,' " said Harris. "There's nothing written in a book. It is bogus. They're making it up as they go along."

 

Kanahele said she and her late husband, Edward, established a set of protocols for reburials because they could find none that had been passed down through the generations.

 

"When we first started, we were baffled with this because the whole thing was totally new," Kanahele said. "We had to really look at what the protocol would have been if we did burials initially."

 

An assistant professor of Hawaiian studies at the University of Hawai'i-Hilo and a kumu hula, Kanahele said she did research by poring through the traditional chants that had been passed down by the renowned Kanaka'ole and Kanaele families from which she is a descendant.

 

Oftentimes, in the absence of more precise information, decisions such as where to place remains or what type of housing material to use, if any, are determined by clues such as other older burials found in a respective area, she said.

 

Kanahele dismissed criticism that Hui Malama is rigid in its protocol and ignores the wishes of others. She noted that among the repatriations the group has completed are those involving remains transferred to Protestant churches with services provided by church ministers.

 

STORAGE DURING KAPU?

 

One of the primary points of contention in the Kawaihae dispute is whether all the items are funerary.

 

La'akea Suganuma, leader of the Royal Hawaiian Academy of Traditional Arts which is one of the two groups that filed the suit against Bishop Museum and Hui Malama, believes that items such as wooden figures and 'aumakua would not be buried with the dead.

 

Suganuma and others believe they may have been placed in the caves separate from the burials, possibly for safekeeping after Kamehameha the Great died and Queen Ka'ahumanu put a kapu on Native Hawaiian religion.

 

But such talk draws a strong rebuke from Maxwell, Hui Malama's president.

 

"A theft is a theft is a theft," said Maxwell. "It wasn't taken, it wasn't discovered, it was stolen," he said of the collection.

 

Reach Gordon Y.K. Pang at gpang@honoluluadvertiser.com.

 

FROM CAVE IN 1905 TO COURT IN 2006

 

1905: The David Forbes expedition takes cultural objects and human remains from the Kawaihae Caves on the Big Island and eventually conveys them to the Bishop Museum. The objects are known as the Forbes Collection.

 

1990: The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, the federal law commonly known as NAGPRA, is passed, setting up a process for returning remains, burial objects and other cultural treasures to indigenous groups.

 

February 2000: As the Bishop Museum reviews a NAGPRA claim on the Forbes Collection by several groups, Hui Malama I Na Kupuna O Hawai'i Nei obtains 83 objects from the collection. The museum later asks for the return of the items; Hui Malama officials refuse and indicate that repatriation has been completed.

 

August 2005: Two Hawaiian groups, Na Lei Alii Kawananakoa and the Hawaiian Academy of Traditional Arts, sue the museum and Hui Malama, seeking the return of the objects to the museum so the claimant groups can decide what to do with the collection items. At least 13 groups are seeking some say in the fate of the objects, which range from wooden statuettes of family gods, or 'aumakua, to tools and pieces of feather capes.

 

Sept. 2: U.S. District Judge David Ezra orders the return of the objects to the museum so discussions among the claimants can continue.

 

Sept. 5: Ezra sets a Sept. 23 deadline for return of the objects. In his decision, Ezra noted “serious questions” as to whether the federal law governing the disposition of burial objects was violated when Hui Malama received the items and refused to return them. In addition, he said the risk of harm to the objects from natural decay in the cave also warranted their return to the museum.

 

Sept. 20: The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals lifts the court order directing retrieval of the objects while Hui Malama appeals Ezra’s injunction.

 

Dec. 12: The 9th Circuit court affirms the September injunction by Ezra calling for the return of the objects.

 

Dec. 20: Ezra sets a deadline of 4 p.m. Dec. 21 for Hui Malama to disclose specifically where each of the objects is buried.

 

Dec. 27: Hui Malama’s leader is ordered into federal custody until the exact whereabouts are revealed.

 

Jan. 5: Ezra suggests the parties settle the issue through a traditional Hawaiian form of dispute resolution and orders them to begin meeting. U.S. Magistrate Kevin Chang will oversee the process.

 

 

 

 

Posted on: Tuesday, January 17, 2006

 

School repairs to get top priority

 

By Treena Shapiro
Advertiser Government Writer

 

The ceiling of one classroom at Farrington High School has a hole so big that students must huddle on one side to avoid being splashed by dripping rain water, said Wendel Dayuha, a 17-year-old senior.

 

Mary Scott-Lau, mother of an eighth-grader at Kailua Intermediate School, had a terrifying experience a year ago when someone called her to let her know a ceiling had collapsed on a group of science students. Luckily, her son was not among them, she said.

 

Nancy Cullen said her daughter, a sophomore at Kalaheo High School, has complained that desks need to be replaced and bathrooms repaired so students are better able to concentrate in class. Cullen, the Windward Region Director for the Hawai'i State Parent Teacher Student Association, sees other needs at the schools, but repair and maintenance are high on the list.

 

Some fixes may be in sight. While exploring ways to use a $574 million budget surplus this Legislative session, elected officials have made addressing the public schools' $525 million repair and maintenance backlog a high priority.

 

In recent years, the state tried to improve the quality of education by giving more local control to schools, reducing class-size in the early grades, buying textbooks and exploring ways to make funding more equitable.

 

Now, lawmakers say it is time to focus attention on safety by improving the 268 state-owned campuses that house 181,355 students and more than 50,000 employees.

 

In addition to addressing health and safety concerns, officials say a better physical environment could boost students' achievement by raising morale and allowing them to complete their lessons in up-to-date science labs and well-maintained sports facilities.

 

It also will send the message to students that they are valued.

 

"If restrooms are in bad shape, it just kind of casts a cloud over the whole learning environment," said DOE spokesman Greg Knudsen.

 

MORE MONEY

 

Just how much should be directed at projects such as leaky roofs, broken windows and flaking paint is still up in the air. The DOE wants $160 million to complete classroom renovations at 96 schools, and $100 million for other school building improvements.

 

In making their case for the extra money in their supplemental budget request, the department has said the classroom renovations would remove several long-awaited projects from the backlog entirely and lessen repair and maintenance expenses in the future.

 

The governor's executive budget includes $40 million in cash to address immediate minor repairs such as leaky toilets and $23 million for major repair and maintenance projects.

 

"That won't even make a dent in what we need to do," said schools superintendent Pat Hamamoto in testimony to the legislative money committees earlier this month.

 

 

RESULTS FIRST

 

While the DOE deems $40 million too much for minor projects and $23 million too little for the major ones, state Budget and Finance Director Georgina Kawamura said she will not recommend more funding until the department spends the $600 million she estimates it has at its disposal through July 2007.

 

"No one is saying there isn't a backlog. There are improvements to be made," she said. She added, "There's a lot of money that they have at their fingertips ready to spend and let's see some results of that spending."

 

Meanwhile, Democrats in the Legislature have proposed dedicating $150 million to tackle the repair and maintenance backlog, as well as to retrofit schools as shelters for natural disasters.

 

Parents, teachers and students see other needs that need to be addressed.

 

Chad Nacapuy, a fourth-grade teacher at Solomon Elementary School, said he would like to see more programs targeted at middle learners, rather than just those who have fallen behind or are considered gifted and talented.

 

Nacapuy said: "What are we doing for the middle kids, who are the bulk of our students?"

 

Because Solomon serves Army dependents from Schofield Barracks, the school receives federal funds not available to most other schools and therefore is able to keep on top of technology, such as replacing traditional chalk- and white-boards with electronic smart boards. Nacapuy would like to see funding for technology spread more equitably among public schools so other teachers and students can enjoy these advances.

 

He also would like to see more help for teachers in the classroom, since an effort to reduce class size has yet to make much of a difference.

 

Cullen, from the PTSA, said teachers need more assistance. "I'd like to see teachers have more clerical support or aides in their classrooms," she said.

 

 

EMOTIONAL NEEDS

 

Schools need more funding to hire counseling staff, as well, she said, noting that, "Students need to be emotionally ready to learn."

 

Scott-Lau thinks schools need more money for security personnel. At Kailua Intermediate, she said there are four or five fights a day.

 

Her work as the executive director for Women in Need frequently brings her onto the Wai'anae and Nanakuli high school campuses, and they could also use more security to help with fighting, graffiti and other vandalism, she said.

 

In addition, Scott-Lau suggests schools with large low-income populations should reconsider their uniform policies, since some students cannot afford to buy a week's worth of shirts. "They wear the same shirt over and over, and they get big holes in them," she said.

 

Zachary Sisneros, a senior at Farrington High School, said aesthetic changes at his school, like green grass, are needed.

 

"There is too much visible dirt," he said.

 

Reach Treena Shapiro at tshapiro@honoluluadvertiser.com.

 

 

 

January 10, 2006

 

Harvard announces new initiative aimed at economic barriers to college

 

'Harvard is open to talented students from all economic backgrounds,' says President Summers

 

Cambridge, Mass.-- Harvard President Lawrence H. Summers announced Feb. 28 a major new initiative designed to encourage talented students from families of low and moderate income to attend Harvard College. The new initiative has four major components:

 

Financial aid: Beginning next year, parents in families with incomes of less than $40,000 will no longer be expected to contribute to the cost of attending Harvard for their children. In addition, Harvard will reduce the contributions expected of families with incomes between $40,000 and $60,000.

 

Recruiting: The College is intensifying its efforts to reach out to talented students across the nation who might not think of Harvard as an option to make sure that they understand Harvard's long-standing commitment to enrolling students from a wide range of backgrounds and regardless of financial circumstances.

 

Admissions: Harvard is reemphasizing, in the context of its highly personalized admissions process, the policy of taking note of applicants who have remarkable accomplishments despite limited resources at home or in their local schools and communities.

 

Pipeline: Harvard recently announced the establishment of an intensive summer program -- the Crimson Summer Academy -- for academically talented high school students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds in the greater Boston area. Each student will participate for three successive summers, beginning after ninth grade, receiving encouragement and preparation to attend a challenging four-year college or university.

 

"We want to send the strongest possible message that Harvard is open to talented students from all economic backgrounds," said Lawrence H. Summers, President of Harvard University, who addressed the American Council on Education's 86th Annual Meeting in Miami on Feb. 29. "Too often, outstanding students from families of modest means do not believe that college is an option for them — much less an Ivy League university. Our doors have long been open to talented students regardless of financial need, but many students simply do not know or believe this. We are determined to change both the perception and the reality."

 

"Already nearly half of Harvard's undergraduates receive grants averaging over $24,000 each year, and two-thirds receive some form of financial aid," said William C. Kirby, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. "This new initiative will enhance our effectiveness in reaching out to students who have done remarkable things with their lives despite limited financial resources."

 

Financial Aid

 

The University has earmarked $2 million in new financial aid funds to cover this expanded aid next year, bringing its total annual scholarship budget for undergraduates to just under $80 million. The new formula, which will take effect next fall for all students — entering and returning — is expected to benefit more than 1000 families (of the 6600 undergraduates) next year, based on current enrollment patterns.

 

The key to the new financial aid initiative is that parents with incomes below $40,000 will no longer be expected to contribute to the cost of their child's education at Harvard. At present, the average contribution for parent(s) with incomes under $40,000 is $2,300 — that number will be $0 under the new plan. Families with incomes of up to $60,000 will see their expected parent contributions reduced by an average of $1,250.

 

The new financial aid initiative is the latest step in a progressive expansion of financial aid at Harvard in recent years. Harvard College's nearly $80 million in scholarships for undergraduates in the coming year represents a 49% increase over the past six years when inflation rose by only 13.5%. The increase in scholarship aid has reduced the average student loan debt upon graduation from $14,600 for the Class of 1998 to $8,800 for the Class of 2003. The national average debt upon graduation is close to $20,000, including students who attend public universities.

 

Recruiting

 

In addition to removing financial obligations for parents of students below the $40,000 income level, the University is taking other steps to expand its pool of students from low and moderate income backgrounds and support them once they enroll.

 

The College Admissions office is making a special effort to identify and visit high schools in which students might not think of Harvard as an option. Through early identification, direct mail, and student and alumni contacts, the College is intensifying its efforts to reach out to talented students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds and inform them of Harvard's long-standing policy of taking into account financial and other kinds of personal challenges in the admissions process. In addition, for those students, the University waives application fees, pays for travel so that accepted applicants can visit campus to see if they wish to enroll, and makes funds available, as needed, for books, winter clothing, medical and other extraordinary expenses.

 

The Crimson Summer Academy

 

The Crimson Summer Academy will host its first cohort of 30 students next summer (2004), for a four-week session that will include a rigorous mix of classes, workshops, projects, and field trips, as well as college planning, career apprenticeships, and guest speakers drawn from Harvard's faculty. Through close mentor relationships extending throughout the school year, small group instruction, and sustained academic support, the program seeks to encourage talented students to expand their vision of what is possible and strengthen their ability to achieve ambitious academic and life goals.

 

Harvard will provide students with full financial support for all aspects of the program, including daily round-trip public transportation to Cambridge, meals, and medical insurance. Students will also receive a stipend to replace summer earnings. Students who successfully complete all three summers will be awarded a $3,000 scholarship for use at the college or university of their choice.

 

Economic Barriers to College

 

Harvard's initiative comes as a number of recent studies show wide disparities in college attendance and completion based on socioeconomic factors. Family financial circumstances affect which students go to college, where they go, and how likely they are to graduate. (Sources for numbers below are attached.)

 

Nationwide, low-income students attend college at much lower rates than students from families with higher incomes. Nine in ten high school graduates from families earning more than $80,000 attend college by the time they are 24, compared to only six in ten from families earning less than $33,000.

 

A student from the highest income quartile and the lowest aptitude quartile (as measured by standardized test scores) was as likely to be enrolled in college as a student from the lowest income quartile and the highest aptitude quartile.

 

At the nation's most selective colleges and universities, only three percent of students come from the bottom income quartile and only 10 percent come from the bottom half of the income scale. Almost three quarters come from families in the top quartile.

 

Within five years of entering college nationwide, more than 40 percent of students from the top income quartile graduate with a B.A. compared to 6 percent from the lowest income quartile.

 

According to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics, students and families from all economic backgrounds, particularly those with lower incomes, often "substantially overestimated" how much they will be required to pay for a college education.

 

Harvard's own research confirms that large gaps persist in the college expectations of students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. Last fall, Harvard admissions and financial aid staff conducted a series of interviews with students from families with incomes below $50,000. Many of these students were the first from their high schools ever to attend Harvard, and said that it never would have occurred to them to apply save some outside intervention — the encouragement of a particular teacher, becoming acquainted with a Harvard graduate in the community, or receiving a recruitment letter from Harvard. Almost all of the students interviewed confessed that they had paid the portion of expenses expected of their parents through extra work during the summer and academic year because they did not feel comfortable adding to their families' financial burdens. Most indicated a strong family aversion to debt, making it difficult to rely heavily on loans, and many discussed the difficulties of meeting routine expenses — such as course books, school supplies, and fees for a variety of student events — especially compared to more affluent peers.

 

Financial Aid at Harvard

Harvard College is committed to "need-blind" admissions -- it considers students for admission without regard to their ability to pay, and guarantees to meet the full financial need of every student who qualifies for aid. All of Harvard's financial aid is need-based.

 

This year, Harvard's tuition is $26,066 and the total cost of attendance, including tuition, room, board, and other charges is $37,928. Two thirds of Harvard undergraduates receive some form of financial aid, including scholarships, loans, and jobs, and the total aid provided to undergraduates is just under $110 million this year.

 

Undergraduates receiving grant assistance are expected to contribute to their expenses by meeting a self-help requirement during the school year ($3,500 for students entering next year). Students may use outside scholarship awards to meet this requirement, and last year 586 students used this option to erase it completely. Students may work about 12-15 hours per week at a variety of term-time jobs, including research positions, internships and career exploration opportunities to meet this obligation. Alternatively, they can secure a loan at favorable long-term interest rates. Students are also expected to contribute from their summer earnings ($1,850 for incoming students). Such flexible financial aid options contribute to Harvard's high graduation rate of 97%, among the highest in the nation.

 

Students have long been admitted to Harvard regardless of their family financial circumstances. They are chosen on the basis of their outstanding academic, extracurricular, and personal qualities, and on their promise for unusual achievement during their college years and throughout their lives. Harvard's admissions recruitment and financial aid programs have been continually refined to attract students of character who bring with them the widest possible diversity of life experiences and intellectual perspectives. They live together in the close-knit residential settings of Harvard Yard in the freshman year and in the upperclass Houses thereafter while interacting in the classroom, in the hundreds of extracurricular and athletic endeavors, and in the stimulating environment of the Cambridge and Boston area.

 

The opportunity of learning from classmates who come from every economic background – in addition to differing nationalities, religions, ethnicities, and academic interests – is cited time and again by alumni/ae as critically important to their Harvard education. The new low and moderate income financial aid program renews and strengthens that tradition for the benefit of all future undergraduates.

 

 

 

 

Posted on: Tuesday, January 17, 2006

 

Senator's aide named to House

 

By Derrick DePledge
Advertiser Government Writer

 

Anne Stevens, a legislative aide with experience in the Coast Guard and maritime industry, was appointed yesterday by Gov. Linda Lingle to serve Waikiki, Ala Moana and Kaka'ako in the state House of Representatives.

 

Stevens said she would concentrate on potential infrastructure improvements to piers and harbors and along the Ala Wai watershed. She said residents have also told her about their concerns over noise in Waikiki and the impact of new high-rise condominiums.

 

"I believe that needs to be looked at. We need to see if that's going to put stress on the infrastructure — our roads, water supply and so forth, especially in the Ala Moana area," Stevens said. "We're going to be infusing a lot of new residents in there and we just have to make sure our infrastructure can handle that."

 

Stevens, the office manager for state Sen. Gordon Trimble, R-12th (Waikiki, Ala Moana, Downtown), will replace Galen Fox in House District 23. Fox, a former Republican House leader, resigned last year after he was convicted of a federal misdemeanor for fondling a woman on a flight from Honolulu to Los Angeles in December 2004.

 

Stevens, a Republican, is scheduled to be sworn into office today by House Speaker Calvin Say, D-20th (St. Louis Heights, Palolo, Wilhelmina Rise). Her term expires in November.

 

"She understands the district's concerns and will be able to use her extensive background in the maritime industry as well as her familiarity with the legislative process to be an effective representative for the people of her district," Lingle said in a statement.

 

Stevens spent 12 years in the Coast Guard, was a district manager for a cruise agency, and was a shipping agent.

 

Walt Flood, a real-estate agent who is on the Waikiki Neighborhood Board, encouraged Stevens to listen to resident complaints about noise and crime.

 

"I would tell her to send out a survey and ask the residents of Waikiki about their concerns," he said.

 

Mary Simpson, who manages real estate and has a bikini shop, said she wants Stevens to pay attention to the spectrum of people who live in the district — including hotel workers, street performers and the homeless — instead of only the wealthy or most vocal.

 

"I want this little lady to take care of all of us," said Simpson, who is on the neighborhood board.

 

Tom Brower, the communications director for the Democratic Party of Hawai'i who serves on the neighborhood board, said he wishes Stevens well but believes other members of the neighborhood board who applied to replace Fox would have been better. He said Lingle's decision to appoint a Republican Senate aide was political patronage, and suggested he might run for the seat this year.

 

"I think that Anne is a nice person, though her appointment is primarily because of whom she knows not what she knows," Brower said. "Anne's primary qualification is that she worked for a state Republican's office and is a team player with the Lingle administration."

 

House Minority Leader Lynn Finnegan, R-32nd ('Aliamanu, Airport, Mapunapuna), was on the governor's screening panel for the appointment and said Stevens was a good pick.

 

"She comes with a good background of community service as well as being in the military — in the Coast Guard — and the other ways that she served," Finnegan said. "And she has experience here at the Capitol, so I think that it was a pretty good choice."

 

Reach Derrick DePledge at ddepledge@honoluluadvertiser.com.

 

 

 

 

(Published: January 16, 2006)

 

Psychiatric center keeps promise about kids

CLOSE CARE: Facility responds to goal of sending fewer children out of state.

The Associated Press

 

JUNEAU -- A psychiatric treatment facility under construction in Juneau will keep more Alaska youths from being sent out of state to receive mental health treatment.

 

"The research shows that kids do best when they are as close as possible to their homes and communities and natural support systems," Juneau Youth Services executive director Walter Majoros said. "When you remove the kids from that, in some ways, it creates another shock."

 

Alaska began the Bring the Kids Home Initiative in 2004 to address the problem of hundreds of children having to leave the state for counseling.

 

The 15-bed Montana Creek Residential Facility is one of the first facilities to be built since the initiative was introduced.

 

In fiscal year 2004, there were 749 children that went out of state to receive mental health treatment. The number fell to 711 in 2005.

 

Deputy commissioner of health and social services Bill Hogan said the Bring the Kids Home Initiative is beginning to return results.

 

"We're making a difference in the lives of kids and families with serious emotional disturbance," Hogan said.

 

Hogan said the plan is to create a network of services so that by 2014 Alaska will not need to send any children out of state to receive mental health treatment.

 

"Roughly 40 percent of these children are Alaska Native or American Indian, so it's really important to me that the service that we provide be culturally based," Majoros said.

 

The overall cost of treatment is about $350 per child per day. Majoros said the program mainly will be funded through Medicaid.

 

 

 

 

Posted: January 17, 2006

 

IHS grant to fund diabetes risk and asthma

 

by: Staff Reports / Indian Country Today

 

OMAHA, Neb. - The Northern Plains Tribal Epidemiology Center recently received a Native American Research Center for Health grant from the IHS. The Northern Plains Tribal Epidemiology Center is partnering with the University of Nebraska Medical Center for the study.

The goal of the four-year grant, expected to total between $900,000 and $1.5 million, includes two research projects to build trust and facilitate research between American Indians and academic institutions. One of the projects will look at diabetes risk in Native youths and what can be done to prevent it. The other project is aimed at understanding asthma in Native youths.

''The grant presents an unparalleled opportunity to conduct health research where partnership with tribal communities and building tribal capacity are at the foundation,'' said Francine Romero, director of the epidemiology center and principal investigator for the NARCH grant. ''Our collaboration with the University of Nebraska Medical Center will undoubtedly bring tangible benefits to tribes.''

The center focuses on health research in tribes and is funded by the IHS. The center, which serves 18 tribes in North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska and Iowa, was established by the Aberdeen Area Tribal Chairman's Health Board.

Dr. Jennifer Larsen, professor and section chief, UNMC diabetes, endocrinology and metabolism, said the project will focus on decreasing health disparities, facilitating research, decreasing distrust and training researchers in American Indian communities.

''This is another step in how we're trying to show universities can work with tribes to attack problems that they think are important, in ways that may be most effective and helpful to them,'' said Larsen, principal investigator of the diabetes risk project. ''The idea is to establish a long-term relationship to work on more than one problem.''

Diabetes is almost an epidemic in all communities, but particularly the Native community. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes, the most common form of diabetes, is more than twice as common in American Indians as in non-Hispanic white populations, Larsen said. ''They also are at higher risk for diabetic complications, especially amputations and end-stage renal disease, and are more likely to die from complications of diabetes.''

The prevalence of diabetes is increasing across the United States, but the greatest increases have been seen in American Indian youths ages 15 - 19. She said programs have been initiated in many tribes to try to reverse this trend but depend on identifying those at risk.

''We are now seeing new onset of diabetes in younger and younger ages,'' Larsen said. ''A lot of the data we have about prevalence of diabetes and pre-diabetes is based on those who make it to the physician's office. There may be a lot of kids who are at risk whom we're not even seeing.

''This is a whole new thing to have diabetes starting so early. We're seeing an epidemic of new onset of diabetes type 2 affecting the whole population.''

The prevalence of diabetes is increasing and varies from tribe to tribe, but is about 9 percent in adults for the Great Plains tribes, which is double that described for surrounding states. The prevalence of diabetes across Nebraska has increased in the Great Plains tribes by 16 percent from 1990 - 1997, Larsen said.

The diabetes project will evaluate the prevalence of insulin resistance in children of the Rosebud Sioux tribe. The goal is to identify the best predictors in children who might be at risk for diabetes, with the ultimate goal of preventing the onset of diabetes.

''There really haven't been that many studies to date that really identify the prevalence of diabetes and pre-diabetes. With this study, we hope to gain a more accurate representation of why Native American youths are at higher risk than youths in other groups. Is it just related to disparities in the prevalence of obesity - there is some evidence this is true - but are there other disparities to explain why higher risk for diabetes?''

Three hundred children, ages 5 to 18, will be screened on the Rosebud Sioux reservation in south-central South Dakota. The Rosebud Clinic will serve as the primary study site.

Researchers will use traditional diabetes screening tools that might identify kids at risk, such as body mass index, family history and newer screening tools, including stress screening. She said if stress is part of the risk of developing diabetes, an intervention can be developed to better identify a successful intervention.

''Which of these is the most sensitive for identifying children at risk has not been well-studied,'' said Larsen. ''Better information on which is the easiest and most sensitive at identifying those at risk would be a great value in efforts to change outcomes in high-risk populations,'' Larsen said. ''There's very little data about the relative risk of diabetes in Native American kids, the best way to screen for it and the best way to intervene,'' she said.

Researchers don't know why diabetes is increasing in American Indian adolescents.

''Could it be that kids on reservations have more stress and that is the reason we're seeing more obesity and diabetes? One of the things we're looking at is stress as a potential cause. We want to find out if there are specific stressors that hadn't been identified. This may change how we intervene to prevent and treat diabetes,'' Larsen said.

Researchers will add a unique component to the grant: depression screening.

Larsen said depression and stress can be detrimental to diabetes.

''Depression and stress causes you to make extra hormones - adrenalin, for example. Almost all the stress hormones inhibit insulin action. If you make the insulin, it doesn't work as well so you have to make more - kind of like type 2 diabetes. When some people have stress, they decide to eat because it makes them feel better, so if you're eating more, that also contributes to insulin resistance.''

She said sedentary behavior contributes to insulin resistance.

''Insulin resistance may be a direct result of stress hormones or it may indirect because the change of behaviors such as eating and activity behaviors. This also can lead to depression, which can increase stress hormones. It may be all of the above.

''The hope is the info we develop will be available to and valuable to the tribes and lead to more information that will improve on interventions we already have to more effectively prevent diabetes not only in youths but also adults as well.''

In addition, the grant will look at whether involvement of youths in traditional and cultural activities of the tribe may serve as factors that protect against risk of insulin resistance.

The asthma project of the grant involves screening for asthma in northern Plains tribal communities to identify the prevalence of risk of asthma in children that have not been diagnosed with asthma. The project's objective is to determine the number of asthmatic children currently undiagnosed, and identify those who aren't receiving the appropriate level of care for their condition.

For more information about the study, contact Romero at (605)721-1922 or epiromero@aatchb.org.

 

 

 

 

January 17, 2006

 

53 Take Trek to Taro Patch in Maunawili

 

Honolulu, Hawaii – On Saturday, January 14, 2006, 53 participants jumped into 4-wheel drive vehicles to participate in the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement’s (CNHA) first Native Hawaiian cultural excursion, Huaka‘i of the new year.  Deep into the lush ahupuaa of Kailua, Mark Stride, his ohana and other caretakers of the Maunawili Lo‘i (taro patch) gave participants a tour of the property, shared legends, and guided participants in hands-on activities including picking, cleaning, pounding taro and finally, tasting the fruits of their labor, freshly pounded poi.  

 

Hosted by Papaku no Kameha‘ikana (Papaku), CNHA coordinates Huaka`i events “to fulfill our kuleana of preserving and protecting our resources,” said Robin Danner, CNHA President and CEO.  “It was energizing just to be in the presence of such dedicated individuals from Maunawili and, definitely to experience the passion of the land first hand.” 

 

Participants met at the gate of the Maunawili valley, participated in traditional chant and were provided an expert guide by Mark Stride, a Maunawili farmer dedicated to the restoration of the ahupuaa, and the cultivation of taro.  The fascinating tour included stories of the area, including the Queen’s bath near the Boyd estate, and centered on learning about the ancient taro patch terraces, the location of mountain springs and working in the taro patch, with the final activity to pound taro into poi.  Many participants remarked at the inspiration and amazing work of Mark Strike and his ohana.

 

Huaka‘i  are held twice annually by CNHA in partnership with a member Native Hawaiian organization.  The outings provide individuals from every walk of life, whether an office manager, a banker, or community advocate the opportunity to fellowship and energize by engaging in cultural activities, most times in a location not far from home or employment.  Huaka`i are in the works for several other activities including, working with lauhala, learning ancient oli or mele and visiting fishpond.

 

“Participating in intimate events such as Huaka‘i is important,” remarked Kumu Hula Leina‘ala Kalama Heine of Na Pualei o Likolehua.  “Our cultural heritage is inherent in each of us and it is vital to the perpetuation of our living traditions to awaken this sleeping giant within us all.”  Auli‘i Hirahara, President of Papaku, said “We were really excited to host this event as our mission is devoted to planning, organizing and coordinating activities that promote cultural practices.” 

 

CNHA is a national, member-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting community development in Native communities.  For more information about upcoming events, please contact CNHA via telephone at 808.521.5011 or toll free at 808.709.2642, via e-mail at info@hawaiiancouncil.org or visit our website at www.hawaiiancouncil.org.

 

 

 

 

January 13, 2006

 

Activists oppose UH's patenting of taro plants

 

The university owns the rights to three varieties of the traditional staple

 

By Stewart Yerton
syerton@starbulletin.com

 

Arguing that the patents were wrongly obtained, local and national activists opposing the patenting of taro plants are asking the University of Hawaii to relinquish the rights it owns for three varieties of the traditional Hawaiian food staple.

 

Walter Ritte, a Molokai-based activist, plans to join Kauai taro farmer Chris Kobayashi and representatives of the Center for Food Safety in Washington, D.C., for a news conference at UH to air their grievances concerning the university's patenting of the three taro varieties, which are called Palehua, Paakala and Pauakea.

 

Issued in 2002, the patents protect the university's ownership rights of the varieties, which were developed by scientists at the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources. The patent requires farmers wanting to grow the varieties to pay a licensing fee to the university, prohibits farmers from selling the seeds and requires farmers growing the plants to let UH officials onto the farmers' property to study the plants.

 

But the critics contend that the university should not exercise intellectual property rights on plants that are derived from species that Polynesians brought to Hawaii more than 1,000 years ago. In traditional Hawaiian culture, the taro plant is viewed as a spiritual ancestor, a crop that sustained the people who cultivated and cared for it. Given this context, Ritte said, any kind of genetic alteration, experimentation or patenting of Hawaiian taro is offensive.

 

"The taro is not a commodity; the taro is our very person," Ritte said. "It's almost like they're buying and selling us."

 

But these cultural issues are not the crux of the argument made by Ritte and Kobayashi. Instead, the opponents argue the patents should not have been issued under U.S. patent law.

 

For example, the opponents assert in a statement that the UH patents should be invalid because the plants are not much different from varieties already invented by Hawaiians. Such previous inventions are called prior art in legal parlance, and the existence of prior art similar to the invention can make it impossible for an inventor to obtain a patent.

 

Of particular importance to the argument is a variety called Maui Lehua, which was used to cultivate UH's patented hybrid taro plants.

 

"The qualities of the patented varieties derive to a considerable extent from Maui Lehua, whose properties are the result of many centuries of breeding efforts by native Hawaiians," the opponents contend. "Thus, the patent claims for the three patented varieties are invalidated by considerations of prior art."

 

The statement also claims that the UH scientists failed to validate properties they claimed the taro contained, another essential element to obtaining a patent.

 

Finally, the statement takes issue with the several aspects of the licensing agreement, including royalties that farmers selling the taro would have to pay to UH.

 

"The collection of royalties from farmers whose taxes already support the university's operations, including taro breeding activities, is abhorrent," the statement said. "It represents a superfluous and unjust levy on Hawaiian taro farmers."

 

Although the patents have existed for years, they came to the attention of the activists only recently, said Bill Freese, a scientific consultant for the Washington, D.C.-based Center for Food Safety, which opposes the genetic alteration of food crops.

 

"It's a sign of how these things often take place without public awareness, and I think that once people know that with a plant like the sacred taro plant -- that the University of Hawaii is claiming to own these varieties -- I don't think people will be happy about it," Freese said.

 

Andy Hashimoto, dean of the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, was not available for comment yesterday. Anya Wieczorek, a biotechnology specialist for CTAHR, said that under university policies, the patents belonged to the scientists and the university's Office of Technology Transfer and Economic Development, and that the college would not have the power to relinquish them. Officials of the technology transfer office were not available for comment.

 

Last year, Wieczorek said, the university said it would not conduct genetic engineering research on Hawaiian taro until it could set up a process for obtaining guidance from a native Hawaiian advisory committee. No university scientist has expressed a desire to conduct such work, she said, so there has been no need to establish the advisory group.

 

 

In an effort to increase the usefulness of this service to our subscribers, CNHA is now including a section for Quiet Title Notices at the end of each NewsClips.

 

CIVIL NO. 05-1-0521(3) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SECOND CIRCUIT STATE OF HAWAII TO: HEIRS AND ASSIGNS OF KAHUHU; and Heirs of persons named above who are deceased, or persons holding under said Heirs, and spouses, assigns, successors, personal representatives, executors, administrators, and trustees of persons named above who are deceased; DOES 1 through 100, and all other persons unknown claiming any right, title estate, lien or interest in the real property described and TO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that Plaintiff ELISE MARIE GARRIGUE claims fee simple ownership, together with others, to: All of Land Commission Award Number 5498-B to Kahuhu) at Kahauiki, Hamakualoa, Island and County of Maui, State of Hawaii, Tax Key (2) 2-8-004-025, containing 0.938 acre, more or less. TOGETHER WITH a perpetual easement, 12 feet wide, for access and utility purposes, as granted by AGREEMENT dated May 23, 1986, recorded in Liber 19569 at Page 727. YOU ARE HEREBY FURTHER NOTIFIED that Plaintiff ELISE MARIE GARRIGUE has filed a Complaint to Quiet Title in the Second Circuit Court, Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii, requesting that title to the above-described real property be determined quieted as to any and all adverse claims not presented and/or adjudicated in this action. YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to appear in the courtroom of the Honorable Joseph E. Cardoza, Judge of the above entitled Court, Hoapili Hale, 2145 Main Street, Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii, on Friday, the 17th day of February, 2006, at 8:30 a.m., or to file an answer or other pleading and serve it before said day upon Plaintiffs' counsel TOM C. LEUTENEKER, Carlsmith Ball LLP, 2200 Main Street, Suite 400, Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii 96793, to show cause, if any you have, why the prayer of said Complaint should not be granted. Unless you file an answer before the time aforesaid or appear at the Second Circuit Court, Wailuku, County of Maui, State of Hawaii, at the time and place aforesaid, your default will be recorded, and said Complaint will be taken as confessed and a judgment by default will be taken against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. DATED: Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii, Dec. 27, 2005. D. KEYES CLERK OF THE ABOVE ENTITLED COURT CARLSMITH BALL LLP TOM C. LEUTENEKER 721-0 2200 Main Street, Suite 400 Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii 96793 Telephone No. 808.242.4535 Fax No. 808-244-4974 Attorney for Plaintiff (Hon. Adv.: Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25, 2006) (A-267695) Posted on 1/4/2006

 

 

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE FIRST CIRCUIT STATE OF HAWAII SUMMONS TO DEFENDANTS Kahuenui (w); Mahelona (k); Charlene P. Johnson; Ora Johnson; Oralene Levi; Pamela Nalani Fujimoto; Lisa Ann Kahalewai; Ann Johnson-Kekaulike; Judi L. Johnson; Joseph P. Johnson; Mary Pung Sue; Wallace H.L. Wong; Carol Kiesel; Corrine Bailey; Wendi Chong; Robin-Jeanne Toledo; Darrin P. Chong; David-Nathan Chong; Andrew-Mark Chong; Jered-Michael Chong; Paul Puaa III; Vanessa Puaa; Paulette Moore; Mary P. Murray; Phillip Murray; En Sue P. Puaa; Kyle L. Nees; Jonne N. Field; James L. Nees; Dale K. Nees; Lahela T. Roback; Moses C. Pung; Sandra J. Rodrigues; Charmaine Kim; Charla Chandler; Becky K. Pung; Albert Bush, Jr.; Charles E.M. Bush; Palmroy Bush; Bernard Y.T. Ho; Grace Kinohi Simon; Bernard P. Ho; Lindsay N. Ho; David Rocky Ho; Davis K. Ho; Inez Dos Remedios; James Dos Remedios Sr.; Jaqueline Pung; Sonia Leilani Case; Sandy Shore; Hana Camara; John Shore; Barnette Fischer; Rosalia Kaluapanaio Luka; Joseph L. Wharton; Teta Wharton Koga (w); Mele Kaiaikawaha (w); Ana Honu (w); Rebecca Aina; Hana Kapeliela (w); Daniel Kaiaikawaha; Poaka Kealoha (k); Rebecca P. Akioni; Lemon Wharton (k); Lusia Kuaimoku (w); Meleaka Kahoiwai Jones (w); Emily Kaiaikawaha (w); Kapeliela (k); their respective Heirs or Assigns; Doe Defendants 1-50; And All Whom It May Concern: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that Plaintiff, North Shore Land and Farming Company LLC, has filed a complaint in the First Circuit Court, State of Hawaii, Civil No. 05-1-2127-11, to partition and quiet title to: (1) Grant 1649, at Waialua, Oahu, Hawaii within TMK (1) 6-6-028-003; (2) Grant 1667, Apana 2, at Waialua, Oahu, Hawaii within TMK (1) 6-6-028-007; and (3) Grant 1337, Apanas 1 and 2, at Waialua, Oahu, Hawaii within TMK Nos. (1) 6-6-028-008 and 009. YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to appear in the courtroom of the Honorable Karen S. S. Ahn, Judge of the First Circuit Court, on February 21, 2006 at 9:00 A.M., or to file an answer or other pleading and serve it before said day upon Plaintiff's attorney, Philip J. Leas, whose address is Cades Schutte LLP, 1000 Bishop Street, Suite 1200, Honolulu, HI 96813. If you fail to do so, judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint. DATED: Honolulu, Hawai i, December 19, 2005. F. OTAKE CLERK, FIRST CIRCUIT COURT (Hon. Adv.: Jan 2, 9, 16, 23, 2006) (A-272834) Posted on 1/2/2006

 

 

 

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