Free medical screenings for all ages at 35th Annual Rell Sunn Menehune Surfing Competition at Makaha Beach

The Rell Sunn Education Fund has teamed up with the University of Hawaii’s John A. Burns School of Medicine to offer blood pressure screenings, eye exams, and glucose screenings as part of the 25th Annual Rell Sunn Menehune Surf Contest. Information will also be given to help qualified patients receive discounted medications through patient assistance programs. Free medical screenings will be offered on the second day of the surf contest, Saturday, November 27, 2010 at Makaha Beach (alternate site – rest camp).

“It’s been an ongoing goal of ours to provide services to the community,” said Jann Sunn-Carreira, founder and president of the Rell Sunn Education Fund, a public benefit nonprofit corporation organized and operated exclusively for charitable, scientific, and educational purposes.

“This is an excellent way to assist our residents in Makaha and the Wai’anae Coast who may not have health insurance,” added Rep. Maile Shimabukuro, who Sunn sought out to help inform the public about this event. “The concern is that people without health insurance will wait until the last minute to seek medical treatment. This program is preventive, and I encourage everyone to come down.”

The 35th Annual Rell Sunn Menehune Surfing Championships will be held on Nov. 26 – 27, 2010 at Makaha Beach beginning at 6 a.m.

Also this year, Rell Sunn Education Fund will be hosting an Aloha Jam II concert on Sunday, November 28th on the North Shore. Entertainers include Henry Kapono, Amy Hanaiali’i, Kaukahi, Ten Feet, The Honolulu Lounge Lizards, The Young Coconuts, and Te Lumanaki.

“So many professional surfers got their start at Rell Sunn’s Menehune Surf Contest,” Shimabukuro said. “I am so happy that Jan and her family and friends are continuing the tradition of this surf meet to continue to give young surfers the chance to ‘make it big’ in surfing.”

Camp out for camping permits

Two fathers from Wai’anae will join a crowd of other camping enthusiasts as they camp out overnight at the Kapolei Satellite City for a chance to be first in line for camping permits during the Thanksgiving weekend. Morris and Thurston Kamealoha, two brothers, have also gathered 400 signatures for a petition urging the Department of Parks and Recreation to increase the number of city camping permits, especially on the Wai’anae Coast where there are currently only a little over 30 spots.

“Camping is how we would like to spend our quality family time,” wrote the two brothers, Morris and Thurston Kamealoha, in a letter to Rep. Maile Shimabukuro asking for her support of the petition. “Quality family time is what keeps the love in the family strong.”

“You literally have to camp at the Satellite City Hall if you want to camp,” said Rep. Maile Shimabukuro (D-45th). “This has been going on for years, and now it’s even harder for Wai`anae Coast residents because they have to travel to Kapolei rather than go to the Wai`anae Satellite City Hall to get camping permits for our own beaches on the Wai`anae Coast.”

Currently, there are only 12 campsites (weekends only) at Maili Beach Park, 12 campsites at Nanakuli Beach Park, and 6 campsites (summer only) at Lualualei Beach.

While the state does not allow camping at its parks on the Wai`anae Coast due to the public’s complaints about the homeless, it does issue free one-year overnight access permits at Keawaula Bay, aka “Yokohama,” which allow up to 10 people to fish, star-gaze, etc. overnight. Under the state’s Keawaula permit, groups are allowed to use “EZ corner”-type tents with up to 2 sides, but may not use pop-up or 3-4-sided tents, sleeping bags, or cots.

“There is a draft permit for recreational wilderness camping at Makua Beach which the state is considering,” said Wai`anae harbormaster William Aila, Jr. He added that people can request the one-year Keawaula access permits at any time, either by contacting DLNR’s State Parks division or him, at 697-7095.

“We truly believe that if there are more camping sites, there would be more permits to give out and a better chance at getting one,” the brothers said in their letter to Shimabukuro. “There are so many beautiful pristine beaches, but law forbids overnight camping on over 75 percent of our Wai’anae Coast beaches.”

Standing in long lines for a camping permit only to be denied a spot because all spots fill up is another grievance brought up by the petition.

On behalf of her constituents, Rep. Maile Shimabukuro contacted the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and discovered, through an official statement from Acting Director Lester K.C. Chang, that the city is working on an online permitting process, considering fee charges for camping permits, and modifying city camping rules. The City and Council would also have to approve fee charges for the camping permits.

“DPR is projecting to implement the (online permitting) system in the Fall of 2011,” Chang wrote in a letter to Rep. Shimabukuro. “Several milestones need to be cleared for that to occur. A City Ordinance change must pass the City Council to allow for the reservation system to be implemented with the fees. An online system needs to be selected and staff trained. Once the system is online, this should eliminate the long lines present campers are experiencing.”

However, before the city can even consider increasing the amount of camping sites, the new online system would need to be implemented. There are no current plans to increase the amount of camp sites anywhere on the island. “Once the online system has been implemented, the issue will be revisited,” Chang wrote in the letter to Shimabukuro.

“This petition represents the community taking action on something that is important to their families,” Rep. Shimabukuro said. “I’m encouraged that the city is already working on an online permitting system. I hope that they will seriously consider the suggestion of opening up more camp sites for our Ohana.”

IN THE NEWS: 

People camping in Kapolei for Camping Permits - Hawaii News Now 
Petition urges more permits for camping - Star Advertiser

Keeping E Ala Voyaging Canoe in Wai'anae

Wai'anae lawmaker, Rep. Maile Shimabukuro, is supporting an effort by community members to keep the E Ala Voyaging Canoe home by proposing that Poka'i Bay be the canoe's permanent dry dock. The boat was launched from Poka'i Bay in 1982, and for the past decade has sit idle at Sand Island before returning home in April 2010. Community members want the canoe to stay on the Wai'anae coast for good in order to use it as an educational tool to teach students about traditional Hawaiian navigational sailing.

Below is the proposal Rep. Shimabukuro drafted for consideration by the city. She has also asked for a meeting with the city in September to show them a Makaha Studio's accompanying video proposal regarding the E Ala voyaging canoe.

PROPOSAL TO USE POKA`I BAY FOR E ALA VOYAGING CANOE DRY DOCK



WHO: Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS), Wai`anae Hawaiian Civic Club (WHCC), and many other individuals are making this request. Makaha Studios is preparing a video with further information regarding this proposal.


WHAT: PVS, WHCC, and others urge the city to allow the use of Poka`i Bay as a location to permanently dry dock the E Ala voyaging canoe. The canoe would be stored under an energy efficient A-frame structure modeled after a halau wa`a in Laie (See model drawing of the “Halau Wa`a `O E Ala” in Appendix 2). The E Ala halau wa`a would feature photo-voltaic solar panels which would provide power for lighting and outlets. A fence, locks, and other security measures would also be constructed to prevent theft, vandalism, vagrancy, and other potential problems.


WHERE: Specifically, the old canoe storage area near the Kuilioloa Heiau would be the ideal location for the E Ala halau wa`a.


WHY: The E Ala needs to be returned home to the Wai`anae Coast to fulfill its purpose, which is to train residents to sail using ancient Hawaiian navigation techniques. As background, the E Ala is currently docked at the Sand Island Maritime Education Training Center (METC). It was constructed on the Wai`anae Coast in 1981 under the leadership of WHCC. At the time, Wai`anae and Nanakuli High School had programs that used the canoe to train students to sail, and the canoe was docked at Wai`anae boat harbor. Unfortunately, funding, liability, and other concerns eventually ended the school-based programs, and the canoe was vandalized while at the boat harbor. This lead to the E Ala being moved to METC, where it has been ever since. Nevertheless, the enthusiasm for E Ala never ended, and PVS has continued to train Wai`anae Coast students to sail and maintain the E Ala (See E Ala background from WHCC website in Appendix 3).


HOW: A dedicated group of volunteers is willing to provide in-kind services to construct and maintain the halau wa`a, fence, and other necessary security measures (See spreadsheet listing E Ala supporters and volunteers in Appendix 1). A federal grant and state legislative measures are being submitted to provide supplemental funding for the E Ala halau wa`a. In February 2010, City employee Edward Freitas stated that from a maintenance perspective, he would not object to allowing the E Ala to be docked at Poka`i Bay.


Furthermore, as stated above, the push to return E Ala to the Wai`anae Coast has been on-going for many years; the key missing elements were captains, crew members, and a location. PVS has trained 3 captains (Sam Kapoi, Kaina Holomalia, and Waimea McKeague), and several crews, who are all young Wai`anae Coast residents. These captains and crews sailed the E Ala, along with two other canoes, Hokule`a and Kamauheheu, back to the Wai`anae Coast from April 20-May 1, 2010 (See media coverage of the Wai`anae Coast sail in Appendix 4). The greater community has also expressed its support, as over 500 people have signed petitions urging the City to provide the permission necessary to allow the E Ala to be docked at Poka`i Bay (See E Ala Petitions in Appendix 5).


WHEN: PVS, WHCC, and other supporters urge the City to allow E Ala to be docked at Poka`i Bay immediately, or as soon as possible.

"Lawmakers Listen" goes to Waianae

WHAT: The public is invited to an informational briefing on the 2010 legislative session. Rep. Karen Awana and Rep. Maile Shimabukuro will be joined by House Finance Chair, Rep. Marcus Oshiro, who will make a presentation to the community on how the legislature resolved a $1.2 billion shortfall to balance the state budget bill. Information will also be provided on major capital improvement projects for the Waianae Coast.

WHEN: Thursday, July 29, 2010
6:30 -8:30 p.m.

WHERE: SEA COUNTRY COMMUNITY CLUBHOUSE

Directions:
-- Turn mauka (toward the mountains) onto Kaukama Road from Farrington Highway;
-- Go all the way to the end of Kaukama Road, and turn right;
-- Pool and clubhouse will be visible shortly thereafter on the left

New Law Authorizes Disaster Preparedness Plan

Flooding on Waianae Coast

(from Rep. Shimabukuro's blog)

Governor Lingle today signed House Bill 2692 into law as Act 119; the legislation authorizes the Director of Civil Defense to work with the City and County of Honolulu to develop a disaster preparedness plan for the Waianae Coast area, specifically House Districts 44 (Nanakuli) and 45 (Waianae).

The bill, introduced by Rep. Karen Awana (District 44 – Honokai Hale, Nanakuli, Lualualei) proposes a model disaster preparedness plan for the Leeward Coast which can be expanded for other areas of the state in the future. This area of Oahu has the potential to be severely impacted by natural and man-made disasters due to the following factors:

* There is one main highway into and out of the area, with no alternate routes. Closure of the roadway leaves residents stranded.
*There is a large homeless population in the area living on the beaches with limited resources.
*The elderly have limited access to disaster shelters and transportation services.
*The growing population in the area relies heavily on public transportation.

“A disaster preparedness plan for the Leeward Coast is long overdue,” said Rep. Maile Shimabukuro (District 45 – Waianae, Makaha, Makua). “I hope this empowers Civil Defense to move forward with a plan that will protect the community. We are all deeply concerned for the safety of the residents in the event of a disaster.”

The law authorizes but does not require Civil Defense to prepare a plan. If the department goes forward with the plan, the Director of Civil Defense must submit a report to the legislature prior to the start of the 2011 legislative session.

“A disaster preparedness plan is so critical to our community,” said Rep. Awana. “If a major disaster closes the road, this places our people in serious jeopardy. We need to have a plan in place so that we are prepared to deal with the inevitable disaster that will strike. It’s a matter of health and safety.”

Free tax filing help at the Capitol, Feb 27

On Saturday February 27, 2010, from 9 am to 2 pm, IRS-certified volunteers take over Conference Room 329 of the State Capitol to assist taxpayers in filing their annual tax returns. In partnership with the Hawaii Alliance for Community-Based Economic Development (HACBED) and its partner organizations, state legislators* are hosting this special tax clinic to encourage low-to-moderate income taxpayers to save money and claim valuable tax credits. Last year alone, HACBED, its community partners, and 169 volunteers helped low-to-moderate income taxpayers claim over $3 million in tax refunds and over $1.7 million in EITC and Child Tax Credits, saving these taxpayers nearly $400,000 in tax preparation fees.

"There are many in our community who are unaware that they qualify for the EITC and need help in preparing their taxes," says Senator Suzanne Chun Oakland about this free community service for all taxpayers.

“We want to encourage Hawaii’s workers to use these free services early in the tax season to allow them to claim important tax benefits such as the EITC which can be worth from $457 and up to $5,657 for qualified taxpayers this year,” states Representative Della Au Belatti. “Tax clinics like this one at the State Capitol provide a valuable service for our hard-working taxpayers.”

As part of this special tax clinic, taxpayers will be able to file their tax returns for free and receive information about programs that may be of interest to them, including financial literacy classes and credit management. Tax preparation sessions are confidential and safe. All tax returns will be prepared by IRS-certified volunteers who volunteer at other sites coordinated by HACBED’s Family and Individual Self-Sufficiency Program.

HACBED’s Family and Individual Self-Sufficiency Program started offering these free tax assistance services to low-to-moderate income workers at four permanent sites in 2005 when it was first established under Aloha United Way. Today, this statewide Program recruits volunteers
for and coordinates the efforts of over 40 sites and clinics that are sponsored by non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and businesses. Some of the Program’s community partners include Alulike, Inc., Leeward Community College, Volunteer Legal Services Hawaii, the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, Honolulu Community Action Program, INGDirect, Goodwill Industries, and several credit unions in Kekaha, Hickam, and Maui.

For help locating other free tax assistance sites, taxpayers can call Aloha United Way’s Helpline at 2-1-1. For a complete list of tax sites on Oahu, Big Island, Maui, and Kauai, more information about the EITC, other tax credits, and HACBED’s Family and Individual Self-Sufficiency Program, taxpayers should visit the Program’s website at www.hawaiitaxhelp.org.

For more information about the special clinic at the Hawaii State Capitol and to make an appointment, taxpayers should call 808-393-4364. Free parking will be available at the public's blue-metered stalls in the Capitol basement.

*State legislators sponsoring this first-time free tax clinic at the State Capitol are Senator Suzanne Chun Oakland, Representatives Karen Awana, Della Au Belatti, John Mizuno, Karl Rhoads, and Maile Shimabukuro.

Poi making event will honor ‘Anakala Eddie Ka‘anana

A taro-pounding and poi-making event in honor of the late ‘Anakala Eddie Ka‘anana, known to many simply as "Uncle Eddie," will be held Monday, Jan. 25, 2010 at the State Capitol Rotunda from 3 – 7 p.m. The event, which is free and open to the public, is sponsored by Rep. Maile Shimabukuro and friends of Uncle Eddie Ka‘anana.

Ka‘anana grew up in Miloli‘i, a traditional Hawaiian fishing village in South Kona where he learned, like his ancestors before him, to fish, grow taro, make poi and build canoes. Ka‘anana dedicated the final quarter of his life teaching others traditional Hawaiian skills and practices. In particular, Ka‘anana taught students to speak Hawaiian, malama aina (care for the land), and ku‘i kalo (make poi).

"In memory and celebration of Uncle Eddie Ka‘anana we invite all whom he touched to join together on his birthday to clean and ku‘i kalo at the state capitol rotunda," said Rep. Maile Shimabukuro, D-45 (Wai‘anae, Makaha, Makua)

"To gather and ku‘i (pound taro) is a simple demonstration of our connection with and love of Haloa (first Hawaiian ancestor), real food and our love for Uncle (Ka‘anana)," added Vince Kana‘i Dodge, one of the event organizers. "It will send a message to our lawmakers that we are here again. Uncle (Ka‘anana) will be smiling to see us together at the Capitol."

Organizers ask that individuals and groups bring their own materials and equipments, including ku‘i mea (tools to clean and pound poi), cooked kalo (taro), i‘a (fish), la‘i (ti leaf for wrapping pa‘i‘ai (concentrated poi), awa (native root drink), kanikapila (musical instruments and song). Some cooked kalo and i‘a malo‘o (dried fish), and extra ku‘i mea will be provided.

Photo from The Honolulu Advertiser

Waianae potter Betty Winstedt

Representative Maile Shimabukuro interviews Waianae resident Betty Winstedt on her pottery pieces. Winstedt is 97 years old. She takes ceramics classes from legendary artist Bunky Bakutis at the Waianae Senior Center.

Pilila'au 'Ohana Honored on Veteran's Day

From Representative Maile Shimabukuro,D-45 (Wai'anae, Makaha, Makua), who attended the Wai'anae Veteran's Day Ceremony to recognize the Pilila'au 'Ohana.

On 11/11/09, the relatives of Wai`anae Medal of Honor recipient Herbert Kaili Pilila`au attended the annual Veteran's Day ceremony. Each year the ceremony is hosted by the Wai`anae Coast's Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, and Ladies Auxiliary; Wai`anae and Nanakuli High School JROTC programs; the staff of the Herbert K. Pilila`au Army Recreation Center; and other volunteers.

Commander Rocky Naeole served as the master of ceremonies, and Senate President Colleen Hanabusa, Councilman Todd Apo, Rep. Karen Awana, and Rep. Maile Shimabukuro also spoke. Several speakers acknowledged the Wai`anae Coast's three Medal of Honor recipients: Shinyei Nagamine, Yeiki Kobashigawa, and Herbert K. Pilila`au.

Several speakers acknowledged the Pilila`au `ohana, who sat in the audience. As you can see from the photo, the Pilila`au's are familiar faces on our Wai`anae Coast. We are so grateful for the pride they have brought to our community.

After the ceremony, Ike Mahoe, Herbert K. Pilila`au's grand niece, wrote: "If there is anything else you would like to know about my granduncle or our family, please feel free to contact me at Jmahoe@gmail.com. Mahalo for your time and all your kind words today. Our family appriciates you all."

Mahalo nui loa to ALL VETERANS AND ACTIVE-DUTY SERVICE MEN & WOMEN. We are eternally grateful for your sacrifice!!

Photo: (L-R) Bottom row - Kasey, Ka`ili, and Keola; Middle row - Julie and Maryellen Pilila`au; Top row - Ike, Maria, and Debbie. In relation to Herbert Ka`ili Pilila`au, the children are the great-grand-nephews and niece; Maryellen is sister-in-law; Julie and Debbie are nieces; and Maria and Ike are grand-nieces.

Surfing toward the Olympics

Bradah Mel's Canoe Surfing and Stand-Up Surfing Championships announced today that they are helping to raise funds for the Dolan Brothers of Kailua, Patrick, 21, and Ryan, 19, members of the U.S. Olympic Kayak team, on a quest to reach the 2012 Olympics in London.

Proceeds collected will go toward the hefty travel expenses for both young men to get to national and international competitions. With Olympic funding cut-off this year, the boys and their mother, Ann, have had to do a lot of fundraising on their own.

"What Mel is doing for these kids is admirable," said Rep. Maile Shimabukuro, who represents the Waianae area. "The event brings the community together to support our local athletes."

The surfing event, which attracts the best paddlers and surfers from Tahiti, Brazil, France and Hawaii and other states, will be held at Makaha Beach on December 5 and 6, 2009 or (alternate dates depending on surf conditions and weather) December 12 and 13, 2009.

Bradah Mel Pu'u, an avid waterman and Wai'anae Coast lifeguard, has been holding the surf contest for the past four years as a fundraiser for his friend Leighton Look, who was paralyzed in a diving accident. Look passed away last September. He was a popular coach and competitor in the sport of outrigger canoe paddling. This year, the annual surfing event will be held in memory of Look, to keep his legacy and kind nature alive in everyone's hearts and minds.

Event planners are still seeking monetary donations or items for a raffle drawing that will be held at the event. "I understand that times are tight and it is hard to give a lot, so we are asking for any type of donation possible," said Pu'u. “For the raffle, water sports items such as a t-shirt, surf shorts, a boogie board, or surf board would be greatly appreciated.”

For more information on how to donate, please call Bradah Mel Pu'u at 487-9086.

Reps in the News

DOE Reconstituting Schools

Rep. Roy Takumi, chairman of the House Education Committee, weighed in on the issue of the Department of Education "reconstituting" schools. This means that the DOE would have the authority to replace principals and teachers in low performing schools. The Honolulu Advertiser story is here. Superintendent Patricia Hamamoto says that she will seek authority again (legislation failed in 2009) this year to reconstitute schools, knowing that it is an unpopular direction. Here's an excerpt from The Advertiser article today:

Rep. Roy Takumi, chairman of the House Education Committee, said he supports the school reconstitutions and noted that Hamamoto has made it clear that it would be an extreme measure.

"It's just a tool in the tool box that you may or may not use. The superintendent is not going to waltz into every school that is not (performing). ... You need to look at every school on its own merits," he said.

Takumi said the bill ran into roadblocks with the labor unions last session.

"Should we have it as an option? I believe we should and today we don't," he said.


Hoopili

Rep. Rida Cabanilla. Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu and Rep. Maile Shimabukuro all opposed the proposed housing development called Hoopili which came before the Land Use Commission on Friday. The LUC denied the permit request. Here is the Honolulu Star Bulletin article. Here is The Advertiser article on the hearing and the decision. Quotes from the article include:


Shimabukuro, D-45th (Wai'anae, Makaha, Makua), said she was surprised when running for office to find out the chief concern for area residents was traffic. "It really is a daily nightmare for people who live on the West side trying to go to and from work," she said.

Cabanilla, D-42nd ('Ewa, Waipahu, Honouliuli) and chairwoman of the House Housing Committee, said urban development should be focused on areas such as Kaka'ako, McCully and Mo'ili'ili where small buildings can be redeveloped with high density.

Auction-rate securities

Rep. Karl Rhoads is concerned about the fact that the state has $1 billion tied up in auction-rate securities that are currently frozen. Here is the Advertiser article.

"It is disturbing that we have that much money tied up in something like that," said Rep. Karl Rhoads, D-28th (Palama, Downtown, Lower Makiki), who learned of the frozen assets from a constituent. "We knew or should have known it could have become illiquid."

Rhoads said he was concerned about the state's reluctance to write down the investments and wonders if the state should be more aggressive in seeking redress.
"If we've lost $114 million, how come we're not suing to get some of that back because Lord knows, we need the money right now," Rhoads said.

Rep. Rida Cabanilla feature on GMANews TV, a Filipino news channel

Rep. Cabanilla was featured on GMANews TV during one of their segments called "Pinoy Abroad". The story is here. It highlights her accomplishments since emigrating to the U.S. when she was 17 years old.

MA'O Ma Town Fundraiser, Sept. 5, 2009

Representative Maile Shimabukuro is putting a call out for donations of items or services for an auction being held to raise money for Wai'anae youth to attend college while learning about agricultural sustainability and community development.

The fundraiser, 5th Annual MA'O Ma Town, is scheduled for September 5, 2009 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Hawaii State Art Museum. The event boasts an epicurean feast, grown by MA'O Organic Farms and prepared by Downtown chefs, live entertainment, and silent and live auctions.

Individual tickets are $125. A table for 8 people with bottomless wine is $2,000 and a table for 8 with bottomless wine, champagne and more is $5,000. While individual tickets are selling out quick, event planners say table tickets are still bountiful.

All proceeds from the fundraiser will go to a special fund that will provide scholarships for students enrolled in the 2-year Youth Leadership Training (YLT) College Internship Program at MA'O. Most of them are first in their family to attend college and earn a degree. The monies will also be used for farm land expansion which will in turn help to nurture more young agriculture enthusiasts.

"MA'O Farm is teaching youth how to create a sustainable future – one based on organic agriculture, being good to our bodies and good to the earth," said Rep. Maile Shimabukuro, (D45-Wai'anae, Makaha, Makua), who is a member of the planning committee.

The program offers youth a unique way to start their college careers. While working toward an Associate of Arts degree with a certificate in community food systems at Leeward Community College, interns devote hours to cultivating the farms and learning the trade while participating in Farmer's Markets throughout the year.

During a special report on Hawaii Public Radio, Cheryse Sana, one of 27 student interns, talked about her experience on the farm. "This morning I woke up at 5 o'clock," she said, "We put on our pants, grabbed our hats, than at 6 o'clock the assistant farm manager sends us out to pick the vegetables that we need for the day."

"I actually grow stuff in my backyard from what we grow on the farm and I give it to my whole family," added Jonathan Abell, 19, another student intern. "I take them (the vegetables) to church, and even the people around in my community, and they're like 'eh, you get salads?' and I say, ‘oh yeah, I get’, and I cut them (salads) and give it to them (community members). So, yeah, it's actually getting around."

Last year, the auctions raised $15,000 to support scholarships for MA'O youth to enroll at the college, attend conferences in San Jose and Philadelphia, as well as hold their own conferences for other island youth on Oahu. In total, the event raked in over $34,000. More than $100,000 has been raised in previous events over the years.

"Like fine wine, each year this event just keeps getting better and better," quipped Rep. Shimabukuro.

In order for this year's fundraiser to have the same success, MA'O Ma Town is seeking donations of items or services to be auctioned off. Those who would like to donate items or purchase tickets can contact Wei Fang at wei@maoorganicfarms.org or call 808-397-0960 for more information. Credit transactions accepted.

Rep. Shimabukuro to speak on child protection legislation

Representative Maile Shimabukuro (District 45 – Wai'anae, Makaha, Makua) will speak at the Parents for Righteousness Conference, an annual public event on issues related to protecting Hawaii's children.

"Parents for Righteousness" is a support group for families affected by Child Protective Services.

Rep. Shimabukuro will discuss child welfare legislation on Saturday, July 18 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Wai'anae High School in the Career and Counseling Room.

"Child welfare issues have always been near and dear to me, particularly now that I am a parent," said Rep. Shimabukuro. "Although the Legislature was forced to make some difficult decisions this year because of severe economic conditions, we still managed to pass legislation that will benefit our keiki."

Those interested in attending should call Ivan Kapaona at 808-697-8384 to reserve a seat. Space is limited.

Rep. Shimabukuro will talk about child protective policy in relation to last year's "Grandparents' Bill" (SB 2730 from 2008), and the following bills passed during the 2009 Legislative Session:

HB 200, Act 162: Child Protective Services; Purchase of Service Contracts. Continued the provision of necessary support programs for struggling families in Hawaii by allocating $7,000,000 in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds for FY 2009-2010 and $6,200,000 for fiscal year (FY) 2010-2011 to purchase service contracts for child protective services.

SB 108, Act 6: Temporary Guardianship of Minor; Family Court. Provided a more stable environment for children placed under the care of a temporary guardian by extending the term of temporary guardianship from six months to one year.

HB 200, Act 162: Group Home; Foster Girls. Continued support for girls in the foster care system by appropriating $80,000 for FY 2009-2010 as a grant to Hale 'Opio Kauai, Inc. for design and construction to repair the Therapeutic Behavioral Health Group Home for foster girls in Lawai, Kauai

HB 200, Act 162: Foster Care Services. Increased assistance to the foster care system by adding $2,300,000 for FY 2009-2010 and $1,300,000 for FY 2010-2011 in increased federal matching funds resulting from the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage adjustment reflected in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) to fund additional foster care services.

SB 851, Act 115: Child Support Enforcement. Clarifies that all income withholding payments be sent through the Child Support Enforcement Agency; allows the agency to disburse support by electronic transfer or direct deposit; allows for electronic copy or facsimile of a signature as proof of service for certified mail; clarifies lien payment and enforcement.

HB 1364, Act 67: Federal Funds; Appropriations. Promoted transparency in the use of ARRA funds and addressed the general revenue fund shortfall for FY 2008-2009 by appropriating federal funds for the following programs, among others, expected to receive funding under ARRA: Child Protective Services Payments; Cash Support for Child Care; and Cash Support for Families – Self-Sufficiency

HCR 5: Foster Families; Faith-Based Organizations. Encouraged the development of additional community-based support systems for foster children and foster families by urging faith-based organizations in the state to network and collaborate to support foster families, including through the formation of foster family ministries

HCR 39: Foster Care Awareness Month. Worked to improve the foster care system in Hawaii by declaring May "Foster Care Awareness Month" as a time to educate the public about various components of foster care and the foster care system (H.C.R. No. 39, 2009).

Environmental justice forum in Wai'anae

What: A youth environmental justice group from Wai'anae will hold a public forum to share and discuss their findings of three important questions:

1.) Why is everyone dumping their 'opala (trash) in Wai'anae?
2.) What is being done to address this problem?
3.) What can we do as a community?

Representative Maile Shimabukuro and other community leaders will attend the public forum.

When: Friday, July 17, 2009
6 – 8 p.m.

Where: Wai'anae Public Library
85-625 Farrington Highway

Ka Makani Kaiaulu o Wai'anae is a summer environmental justice and community organizing training institute for youth of the Wai'anae coast. The students learn about the history of non-violent social justice movements in Hawaii and around the world, attend workshops on organizing for community change, and conduct field work to document environmental impacts on the community.

Wai'anae summer tech program accepting applications

Representative Maile Shimabukuro is announcing a new summer program on the Wai'anae Coast for teens and young adults to learn technology skills and get paid for it.

ALU LIKE is accepting applications for the 30-hour per week program that would earn a participant $7.25 an hour. Managed and directed by the Hawaii Technology Institute, the six-week program has slots for 30 participants and will start on June 22, 2009. Participants must be between 14 and 24 years of age and meet low income requirements. Classes will be held at Ulu Ke Kukui, the transitional housing complex. Alu Like, Inc. is funding the program.

"Wai'anae residents really need this type of program," said Rep. Shimabukuro. "Most of our youth are unable to travel to Honolulu to take computer tech classes and some just can't afford to take classes and not work. This program gives our youth the best of both worlds: To earn while they learn!"

During the summer program, students will design and modify educational game prototypes. They will be considered "employees" and will be expected to be punctual and fulfill their assigned responsibilities. In the process of designing and modifying the game prototypes, students will learn to improve both personal and professional communication skills, work well in a group, amicably resolve conflict, enhance computer skills, make and deliver presentations, and more.

"As a Wai'anae Coast resident, I am so very thrilled and excited about having the summer tech program right here in our neck of the woods," said Naomi Digitaki, President and CEO of Hawaii Technology Institute. "The program presents immense opportunities for growth and accomplishments for the young participants."

For more information, please call Lavonne Sexton at 808-522-2700 ext. 26.
To register for the program, please call Serena Kyi-Yim or Robert Velligas of ALU LIKE at 535-6700

Generosity of Hawaii people proven on Aloha Friday

For hundreds of seniors from Wai'anae High School, who will be singing their alma mater one last time tonight and accepting their diplomas in front of friends and family armed with floral leis and an arsenal of balloons, the term "Aloha Friday" may forever leave a grand impression on them.

Hawaii residents from all over the island generously donated money to help give these kids the graduation party every local senior looks forward to at the beginning of the school year: Project Graduation.

In a previous blog post, Rep. Maile Shimabukuro put a call out to the public for donations to help Wai'anae High School seniors raise $10,000 needed to fund their Project Graduation, an all-night, substance-free party that begins after their graduation ceremony.

The seniors, parents and volunteers worked all year to raise money, but they were still short. Deposits were already paid on the venue, meals and buses.

Gail Gomes, the event chairwoman, asked for Shimabukuro's assistance in the final days before the event to help get the word out to the community that the program was seeking donations.

She did not expect the slew of calls Thursday morning from eager residents warmly offering what money they had to help the students celebrate their achievements. By noon that day, Gomes had received enough pledges to pay off the party bills.

The domino effect of aloha began with a Honolulu Advertiser story printed in the My Communities page, Thursday, announcing the appeal by Rep. Shimabukuro.

Reporter Will Hoover breaks down the events of that day in an article, "Donations pour in for Wai'anae's Project Grad", printed this morning. You can can also view a video of several seniors showing their appreciation for the overwhelming community support.

Stories like this truly show the compassion of Hawaii people and what it really means to "Aloha Harder".

Wai'anae grads need help funding Project Graduation

Representative Maile Shimabukuro is putting a call out to the public for monetary donations to help fund Wai'anae High School Project Graduation.

This year, the Department of Education stepped away from Project Graduation, pulling funding from the program because of recent budget cuts. Parents and community volunteers instead worked to get sponsors to help fund the all-night party for high school seniors on their graduation day. However, many local businesses have been unable to help without jeopardizing their business needs.

Although the committee and students have worked very hard fundraising and seeking sponsors, they are still $10,000 short of making the event happen. Even more, many parents, who have lost their jobs or have accumulated more expenses by taking struggling family members into their homes, are unable to pay the $200 fee to attend the event.

"Realizing graduation is this week Friday, June 5, 2009, we really want these kids to attend. Since we have already placed deposits on everything, including event locations, meals, paid for buses, shirts and jackets, we must roll forward," said Gail Gomes, chair of the Wai'anae High School Project Graduation committee.

"Project graduation is an important high school experience in Hawaii," added Rep. Shimabukuro. "These kids deserve a night of fun for all their hard work. I encourage everyone who is able to donate any amount of money to help make Project Grad a reality for our Wai'anae students."

The public should call Gail Gomes at 808-696-7978 or email at wss@hawaii.rr.com for more information. Since graduation is Friday, June 5, Gomes has said that she will personally pick up any donations. Checks can also be mailed to: 85-251 Farrington Highway and made payable to "Wai'anae High School Project Graduation".

Public invited to annual Hoa'Aina O Makaha Farm Open House

Hoa 'Aina O Makaha and Makaha Elementary School will be hosting their annual Farm Open House on Saturday, May 2, 2009 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. to celebrate the accomplishments and achievements of their students. The event will also celebrate the rebirth of Hale Haumana, which was recently set on fire for the third time.
Although the children of Makaha were upset by the continuous incidents, they persisted on without question or hesitation to rebuild the Hale. Students and teachers from Waianae High School and Makaha Elementary, young people from MA`O Organic Farms and other community members banded together to raise funds to rebuild the hale.

Jack Johnson, a well-known musician and major supporter of the farm, plans to attend the event.

"Hoa'Aina O Makaha plays a vital role in our state by exposing children to values such as malama'aina, sustainability, and growing your own healthy foods," said Wai'anae Representative Maile Shimabukuro. "I urge everyone to come down and support one of the great farms in Hawaii that educate our children and help us to lead healthier lifestyle."

Tools and livestock were also stolen from the Hale when it was burned. Donations to replace these items and to support the farm can be sent to: Hoa `Aina O Makaha, 84-766 Lahaina St., Waianae, HI 96792.

Donations are tax deductible.

For more information, email contact@hoa-aina.org, or visit http://www.hoa-aina.org/

Volunteers needed to assist with stream cleanups

Streams in Waianae-Makaha, Haleiwa and Laie will be the target of cleanup activities on Friday and Saturday to expunge debris that caused flooding and substantial damage to homes and businesses, but volunteers are needed to help see the project through.

Operation Lauwai is a coordinated effort by Hawaii State Civil Defense, Hawaii National Guard, other city and state agencies and state lawmakers to clean up streams clogged with foliage to prevent future flooding. The cleanup group will be in Waianae-Makaha and Haleiwa on Friday, February 6, 2009 from 7:30 a.m. to noon, and in Waianae-Makaha, Haleiwa and Laie on Saturday, February 7, 2009 from 7:30 a.m. to noon.

Target areas include Eku Stream and Mailiili-Puuhulu Stream on the Waianae Coast; Helemano-Opaeula Stream in Haleiwa; and Kahawaiuui Stream in Laie.

"Lauwai is another Hawaiian word for stream. We like to think that for this collaborative effort, Lauwai may be interpreted liberally from the words 'laulima' for cooperation and helping hands, and 'wai' for water," said Ed Teixeira, vice director of Hawaii State Civil Defense.

All volunteers should meet at the following locations. A site coordinator will be at each rally point to give brief volunteers and provide further directions:

Makaha: Makaha Marketplace – 84-1170 Farrington Highway
Waianae: Waianae Samoan Church – 86-130 Puhawai Road
Laie: (Saturday Only) Cane Haul Road next to the Cackle Fresh Outlet Store at 55-730 Kamehameha Highway. A State Civil Defense representative will be at the intersection of Cane Haul Road and Kamehameha Highway to direct volunteers
Haleiwa: Waialua Community Association (Historic Haleiwa Gym) - 66-434 Kamehameha Highway.

Volunteers should be 18 and over; wear protective footwear and clothing, hard hats (if possible), gloves, and sun protection; bring water, trash bags, chainsaws, and other tools to clear debris, if possible. If you can donate use of heavy equipment, please call Civil Defense to coordinate (733-4300).

Because many of our National Guard members have been deployed to the Middle East, Hawaii State Civil Defense will have a limited amount of guardsmen on location to help complete the project. State Representatives from the districts marked for cleanup are calling on community members, organizations and private businesses to come out, get their hands dirty, and help mitigate the threat of additional flooding in the respective communities. Several community groups and private companies have already signed on.

"The more hands and bodies available to help clear trash and debris, the more work that can be accomplished," said Representative Maile Shimabukuro, D-45 (Waianae, Makaha, Makua). "Anyone who has time to lend a hand or even donate refreshments or equipment should call Civil Defense for more information."

"Operation Lauwai is an excellent community volunteer effort bringing together state agencies, private business and our community members to help prevent future catastrophes," said Rep. Jessica Wooley, D-47 (Laie, Hauula, Punaluu, Kahana, Kaaawa, Waikane, Kahaluu, Ahuimanu, Kaneohe). "All residents should call Hawaii State Civil Defense as soon as possible if there is a stream that needs to be cleared of debris or vegetation."

"It's great to see private companies jumping on board to help our communities. I hope to see this coordinated effort repeat itself throughout the year. Let's get the storm-related debris out now, but continue community cleanups to thwart any future disasters," said Rep. Michael Magaoay, D-46 (Kaena Point, Schofield, Mokuleia, Waialua, Haleiwa, Waimea, Pupukea, Sunset, Kahuku, Kunia Camp, Poamoho, Wheeler, Laie)

Call or email Civil Defense at lahcook@scd.hawaii.gov and 733-4300 for location information, meeting places and other questions.

Hawaii State Civil Defense Plan for Storm-Related Debris and Removal from Streams

Beach pathway cleanup in Wai‘anae needs volunteers

Volunteers are needed for this year's first Kaukama Road Pathway Beautification and Cleanup on Saturday, January 24, 2009 from 7 – 10 a.m. The meeting place will be at Nani Kai Beach on Kaukama Road (one street east of Maili 76 gas station). Sponsors of the cleanup, Women of Wai'anae, AlohaCare, Rep. Maile Shimabukuro and Nani O Wai‘anae, will provide trash bags, gloves, yard tools, plants and refreshments. Volunteers are asked to bring sun protection, protective footwear and water for the plants.

In July 2008, AlohaCare awarded Women of Wai`anae, via their fiscal agent Kaho`omiki, a $5,000 grant in honor of the late Rev. Frank Chong to use toward the creation of a multi-use pathway along the Wai`anae Coast from Lualualei Naval Road to Ka`ena Point. The goal is to connect the path to the state's planned bike path, which will end at Lualualei Naval Road. The funds will be spent on maintaining and beautifying the pathway through volunteer work days.

After receiving the AlohaCare grant, Women of Wai`anae, Teach for America, ServiceNation, and Nani O Wai`anae organized a pathway clean up and beautification at Maili Point on September 27, 2008, the first national “Day of Action.” The event coincided with volunteer projects across the nation. Over 100 volunteers gathered and planted more than 40 native plants, mostly drought resistant, and thousands of native seeds. The following native plants are just a few that now flourish along the pathway: akia, milo, ma`o (cotton), naupaka, pa`u o hi`iaka, pohuehue, koali (morning glory). Volunteers also cleared brush and debris, and gathered over 100 bags of litter. Previous clean-ups were held on April 4, 2008 and May 17, 2008.

“The Kaukama Road Path will go a long way toward preventing childhood and adult obesity by providing a scenic route for biking, walking, jogging and other forms of exercise,” said Rep. Maile Shimabukuro (D45 Wai‘anae, Makaha, Makua). “It will also serve as a viable alternative to driving in these times of high fuel costs and traffic congestion, not to mention increased awareness of the need to reduce our 'carbon footprints' to combat global warming.”

For more information about the pathway clean-up, email maileshimabukuro@yahoo.com or call 696-4677.