SENATOR POHAI RYAN

State Capitol, 415 S. Beretania St., Room 213 Honolulu, HI 96813 email: senryan@capitol.hawaii.gov phone: (808) 587-8388

Serving Senate District 25: Hawaii Kai, Waimanalo, Keolu Hills, Lanikai & Kailua
Vice Chair, Hawaiian Affairs. Committee Membership: Public Safety, Military Affairs & Govt. Operations, Ways & Means, Water Land & Housing

SEPTEMBER 2011

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Aloha Sprit HRS 5-7.5 In the News

Hawaiian Affairs Committee Comment

As Vice Chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Hawaiian Affairs, Senator Ryan is committed to addressing the issues most important to improve conditions for Native Hawaiians across the state. She, as most others, believe in the importance of a healthy host culture. It is beneficial to all members of our community to be invested in the well being of all segments of our state including that of Native Hawaiians. Senator Ryan is part Hawaiian herself, and grew up on an Ohana Lands farm on the Island of Molokai. She brings a dedication and deep understanding about how policy affects the everyday lives of Hawaiian people. In the 2012 legislature she will continue to address issues important to all.

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Resources

Na Wahi Pana

Historic Sites 6 On the Move

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Events

Meet our State Agencies

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DEPT. OF HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS

The Hawaiian Homes Commission Act enables Native Hawaiians to return to their lands in order to support self sufficiency, self determination, and preservation of their values, traditions, and culture. The DHHL Commission administers the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1920 as set forth in Hawaiis Constitution. Duties: Development of home, agricultural, farm and ranch lots and administration of loans; administer educational, economic, political, social and cultural projects by which the general welfare and conditions of Native Hawaiians are thereby improved; and administer the budget for such purposes.

OFFICE OF HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) manages and administers the public trust (Admissions Act) for Native Hawaiians and the general public. OHA formulates policy and exercises control over real and personal property set aside by state, federal or private sources. Mission: To malama (protect) Hawaiis people and environmental resources and OHAs assets, ensuring the perpetuation of the culture, enhancement of lifestyle and the protection of entitlements of Native Hawaiians, while enabling the building of a strong and healthy Hawaiian people and nation, recognized nationally and internationally.

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HRS 5-7.5 Aloha Spirit Statute

Many would be surprised to know that in 1986 the legislature passed a bill concerning Aloha Spirit. Here is the text of the law: [5-7.5] "Aloha Spirit". (a) "Aloha Spirit" is the coordination of mind and heart within each person. It brings each person to the self. Each person must think and emote good feelings to others. In the contemplation and presence of the life force, "Aloha", the following unuhi laula loa may be used: "Akahai", meaning kindness to be expressed with tenderness; "Lokahi", meaning unity, to be expressed with harmony; "Oluolu", meaning agreeable, to be expressed with pleasantness; "Haahaa", meaning humility, to be expressed with modesty; "Ahonui", meaning patience, to be expressed with perseverance. These are traits of character that express the charm, warmth and sincerity of Hawaii's people. It was the working philosophy of native Hawaiians and was presented as a gift to the people of Hawaii. "Aloha" is more than a word of greeting or farewell or a salutation. "Aloha" means mutual regard and affection and extends warmth in caring with no obligation in return. "Aloha" is the essence of relationships in which each person is important to every other person for collective existence. "Aloha" means to hear what is not said, to see what cannot be seen and to know the unknowable. (b) In exercising their power on behalf of the people and in fulfillment of their responsibilities, obligations and service to the people, the legislature, governor, lieutenant governor, executive officers of each department, the chief justice, associate justices, and judges of the appellate, circuit, and district courts may contemplate and reside with the life force and give consideration to the "Aloha Spirit". [L 1986, c 202, 1]

View of Senate Chambers, Hawaii State Capitol

E kuahui like i ka hana. 'A'ohe hana nui ke alu 'ia.

Let everybody pitch in and work together. No task is too big when done by all.

GEOTHERMAL SUMMIT Saturday, October 15 Hawaii National Guard Training Center, Bellows Waimanalo 8am-12:30pm Exhibitions Presentations by four major geothermal companies. Come and learn how Hawaii may start to use this natural energy source. Free to the public.

In the News...
The Secretary of US Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Mr. Shaun Donovan was recently in Hawaii to address those assembled for the annual Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement conference. Mr. Donovan highlighted numerous programs intended to help Native Hawaiians such as block grants for homeless prevention and public housing repairs. He also reaffirmed the commitment from the White House in regards to increasing home ownership opportunities. Additionally, we can expect nearly $13 million in federal funds to come through for DHHL supporting rehabilitation, infrastructure needs and support services. The CNHA conference was well attended and

speakers included Governor Neil Abercrombie, Senator Daniel Akaka, Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa, and Maya Soetoro-Ng (President Obamas sister). Senator Ryan attended all three days of the conference and also provided a legislative briefing to the board of directors just prior to the conference convening. She believes much work remains ahead, but with the pledged support from the federal government she is optimistic.

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RESOURCE PAGE
The Hawaii Family Finance Project
(808) 596-8155

pare Hawaiis families for home-ownership and long term financial success. Eligibility requirements include: 18 years of age or older Low to moderate income Not currently a home owner

Partnership organizations include: Hawaiian Community Assets (587-7886), Hawaii Home Ownership Center (523-9500), HONEA Federal Credit Union (8412473) Services include help with paying down debt, buying a home, financial education courses and counseling, and free tax preparation.

FREE FINANCIAL SERVICES

The Hawaii Family Finance Project is an initiative of CNHA and is funded in part by an award from the CDFI fund. The mission is to pre-

Waimanalo Health Center

(808) 259-7948
The Waimanalo Health Center is a community based non-profit dedicated to improving the qualify of life for the people of Hawaii by providing access to primary and preventative holistic health services. Patients may pay for services through private insurance, QUEST and Medicaid. There is also a sliding fee discount for uninsured and reasonable rates for others. Health care services are also subsidized with state and federal funds which enable our most at risk populations to access necessary services. Waimanalo Health Center provides the following services: Family medicine Lab Services OBGYN Pediatrics Teen health Family planning Womens health Immunizations Health education and support Cultural healing (Ai Kupele) Behavioral health (counseling) Breast & cervical cancer control Native Hawaiian mentoring Dental Clinic

Hawaii State Library System

Hawaii Kai 249 Lunalilo Home Rd. Kailua 239 Kuulei Rd. The Hawaii State Library System is a fabulous resource to all Hawaii residents; young, old and every age in between.

Hawaii Kai: 397-5833 Kailua: 266-9911 Www.librarieshawaii.org

If you havent stopped by your neighborhood library in a while, this may be a good time to do so. Hours of operation differ at each location. So call your local branch or visit the website.

Did you know some of the enhanced services available include books by mail, custom research, interlibrary loans, passports, photocopying, mailing documents and test proctoring? Many events take place at the libraries including keiki read-alouds, exhibitions, and all types of lessons.

TYPES OF HEIAU

Heiau were constructed under the direction of the alii nui (high chiefs) and kahuna (priests). They were dedicated to different gods for various purposes which could change over time. Heiau hoola are for treating the sick and training in the art of healing. Wahi pana are celebrated and storied places in Heiau luakini tend to be the largest and most the cultural traditions of Hawaii. They may be elaborate. Dedicated to the war-god Ku, these heiau, royal birthing sites, and places of signifiare the heiau of the ruling chiefs cance for the people who live there. These sacred Heiau mapele are dedicated to Kane and Lono places have mana (spiritual power) and are for peace, fertility, and agritreated with great respect, honor and MALAMA cultural productivity. Ulupo reverence. Heiau in Kailua has evolved Malama (care for) is a concept Heiau are religious sites and places of into this type of heiau. central to Hawaiian culture and worship where ceremonies and rituals values. To malama is to show are conducted. The design and size of respect and help preserve Hawaithese sites range from small koa ian cultural sites, sacred places (shrines) to large, massive platforms and and wahi pana for future generawalled enclosures. Construction of a tions. heiau requires engineering and expertise in the stacking of pohaku (rocks) of various sizes and shapes for stability and structural integrity.

At some sites you may see a lele structure, like the one pictured here, built for placement of hookupu (offering). Offerings are not to be left on rock structures which are very fragile. All physical disturbance should be avoided.

OAHU SITES TO VISIT: A number of heiau and wahi pana can be visited in national, state and county parks, botanical gardens and resorts. Before visiting, check websites for hours, directions, fees and possible restrictions Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area Puu O Mahuka Heiau State Historic Site Ulupo Heiau State Historical Park Kuilioloa Heiau, Pokai Bay Beach Park Kukaniloko Birthstones State Historic Site Hale O Lono, Waimea Valley NOTICE It is unlawful to take, excavate, destroy or alter any historic site on state land. Violation is subject to a fine of $10,000 (HRS 6E-11). Sites on federal land are protected under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act. The right behavior Conducted at the appropriate time By the proper people Presented to the correct recipients Toward a positive and significant goal Hana kuponi evokes respect in the form of silence and attention on the part of the recipients. It prepares the participants to engage seriously in what is to follow and initiates a set of responses from those who know the protocol.

Before visiting any place it is important to have an understanding of the history, usage and spirituality of the place. And we need to realize that wherever we gothe forest or the oceanwe are entering as guests and cannot automatically assume that we are welcome there. From this perspective, we may develop a proper attitude of humility, one that shifts our focus from ourselves to our surroundings, and allows us to blend with the elements of nature. Before approaching any sacred place, traditional protocol requires a silent request for permission of the kupuna (ancestors), we give thanks for the privilege of visiting and offer apologies for any negativity we may bring to the site. Silence is the best behavior so as not to disturb the harmony. It is important to always respect the boundaries and kapu (off limits) areas. If not marked, use the outer edge of the stone or wood structure as your limit for viewing.
INFORMATION PROVIDED BY: HAWAII TOURISM AUTHORITY KAILUA HAWAIIAN CIVIC CLUB AHAHUI MALAMA I KA LOHAHI

WHEN VISITING

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Historic Sites of Senate District 25

ULUPO HEIAU
Location: On the Kaneohe side of Kailua Road, at the end of Manu Oo Road, behind the Kailua YMCA While not within Senate District 25 boundaries proper, this ancient heiau is a treasure to all on the Windward side of Oahu. This heiau is one of the largest on Oahu measuring140x180 feet wide and 30 feet high and provides an amazing view of Kawainui Marsh. Ulupo Heiau seems to have been dedicated to different purposes over the years. According to oral history it may have been intended to assert political power in the 1600s by Chief Kualii and Kakuhihewa and Kahekili of Maui in the 1700s. It seems to have been abandoned by 1795 when Oahu was conquered by Kamehameha the Great. Additionally, it was probably repurposed as an agricultural heiau sometime later based upon its close proximity to fertile farmland in the area. In the Hawaiian language, Ulupo translates to Night Inspiration. According to legend, the heiau was constructed at night by menehune. There is a trail leading to a spring and small pools that is referred to as the Menehune Pathway. The heiau is located within Hawaii State Park Reserve land. Service and learning projects are conducted by the Hawaiian Civic Club and Ahahui Malama I Ka Lokahi. For information about how you can get involved in caring for this amazing part of our aina please see this website:
www.ahahui.wordpress.com

Historic information obtained from Ancient Sites of Oahu by Van James.. Proceeds to Native Hawaiian Culture & Arts Program and Bishop Museum Press. www.bishopmuseum. org/press

Upcoming community meetings are outlined below.

Sharing the story of Kawainui-Hamakua

The Kailua community successfully stopped urban development around Kawainui Marsh in the 1960s and 70s. A community plan in 1982 was sought to preserve the unique wetland and rich cultural history. In 1994, DLNR drafted a Master Plan for Kawainui with community input. An update of this master plan will be taking place in 2011-2013. Public ideas and concerns will be sought during this planning effort.

Community Meetings
Public meetings will be held in September and October 2011 at various locations in the Kailua ahupuaa. You are invited to attend a meeting, learn more about Kawainui-Hmkua, and share your thoughts on the future of this special place.

Maunawili - Phakupu Kkanono Communities Tuesday, Sept. 13, 7:00pm Trinity Church, 875 Auloa Road Keolu - Enchanted Lake Saturday, Sept. 17, 10:00am Enchanted Lake Elementary School, 770 Keolu Drive Kailua - Coconut Grove Date & site to be announced Kalheo - Kainalu - Aikahi Date & site to be announced Lanikai Thursday, Oct. 27, 7:00pm Lanikai Park, Aalapapa Drive

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Senator on the MOVE!

8/01 & 8/02CSG West Conference, Honolulu 8/01Hawaii Conservation Week Ceremony, Honolulu 8/04Back to School Safety Awareness , Waimanalo Elementary & Intermediate 8/04Ulupo Heiau meeting, Kailua 8/04Kailua Neighborhood Board 8/06Gabby Pahinui Kanikapila, Waimanalo 8/07Street Bikers United general meeting, Honolulu 8/07Nalo Farms site visit, Waimanalo 8/07Waimanalo Health Fair 8/08Waimanalo Neighborhood Board 8/08PTSA meeting with Jaycees (Adopta-School Program), Kailua Elementary 8/09Back to School Safety Awareness Campaign, Enchanted Lake Elementary 8/10City Council Hearing re: Chapter 21, Honolulu 8/11Back to School Safety Awareness Campaign, Kailua Elementary 8/11UHCTAHR Workshop, Kaneohe 8/16Windward Civilian/Military Meeting, MCBH 8/17ALA/DeCA Conference and Local Vendor Trade Show, Honolulu 8/17Legislators meeting with UH President MRC Greenwood, Honolulu 8/18-8/21Hawaiian Affairs site visits for DHHL and Legacy Lands, Maui 8/22-8/25Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement Conference, Honolulu 8/25Blanche Pope Elementary Library Open House, Waimanalo 8/25Waimanalo Food Systems meeting 8/30 Water, Land, Housing Committee info briefings (3), State Capitol 8/30Waimanalo Hawaiian Homesteads meeting-Waimanalo Community Regional Plan 8/31Senate Special Session for Judicial Nominee, State Capitol

Photo Gallery

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Volunteer Opportunities
Waimanalos Hawaii Food Bank needs volunteers to pack bags of food and make other arrangements for those in need. Volunteer opportunities are every Wednesday at 4:00 pm. St. Matthews Episcopal, Waimanalo. Please call Aunty Nickie Hines to help at 259-8406. Seagull Pre-School has many volunteer opportunities for those who enjoy helping young keiki ages 2-5. There are many choices ranging from reading to the kids to taking them on field trips. Contact: Jayne Arasaki, 674-1444 Community Helping Schools is dedicated to improve the quality of education in Hawaiis public schools. Many public schools turn to Community Helping Schools with requests for various volunteer services. You can see what the schools need help with on Community Helping Schools website at http://communityhelpingschools.org/wishes/volunteer, Contact: Kathie Wells, 2252621

Participate!
Contacting your District Senator is not the only way to get involved in the Legislative Process; you can also participate by contacting the Hawaii Legislature Public Access Room. Contact Information: Website: http://hawaii.gov/lrb/ par/ Email: par@capitol.hawaii.gov Phone: (808) 587-0478 phone (808) 587-0749 TTY phone (808) 587-0793 fax Hours: M-F 8:30am - 5pm Sat 8am - 2pm

Sea Life Park has various volunteer opportunities to help both the animals and the community. If you enjoy working with animals you can help rehabilitate sick and injured seabirds, or if you want to educate the community you can assist with student outreach programs. More information and applications are on their website www.sealifeparkhawaii.com/educintern_volunteer.asp. Contact: Brianna Saylor, 259-2513.

Community Events
Various dates: (see page 6 for details) Kawainui Marsh public plan meetings. 9/04, 10am7pm Iolani Palace Onipaa, A birthday celebration for Queen Liliuokalani. A day of learning and recapturing the history of Hawaii. Mele performance followed by walking tours retracing days leading up to and including the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy. For reservations call 534-8880. For more details please visit www.hawaiiponoi.info 9/06, 6pm, Aikahi Elementary Cafeteria Reapportionment Committee Public Meeting . To see proposed district maps visit: www.hawaii.gov/elections/ reapportionment 9/11, 6-9am, Kailua Intermediate School Windward Half Marathon, 5k Run and Keiki 100 yard dash. Sponsored by Boys and Girls Club of Hawaii. For more details please call 261-8899 or email: surfhout@hotmail.com 9/11, 4-5:30pm, Sister Debry Park (S. Beretania St.) Sponsored by the City & County of Honolulu. Participants will march to HFD HQ and Honolulu Hale 9/11 Memorial. Short ceremonies will be observed throughout. For more information call 768-6622 or email: kiosefa@honolulu.gov

LEGISLATIVE BILL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP Wed., 9/07 6pm-8pm Waimanalo Hawaiian Homes Assoc. community Center Free, open to the public. Learn State and City process for bill submission. Hosted by: Senator Ryan, Representative Lee & Councilman Anderson