Oct 9, 2015 | Environment, Events
The 16th annual Advanced Maui Optical and Space Surveillance Technologies Conference (AMOS) was held in September in the culturally rich setting of the Wailea Marriott Resort and Spa. Presented by Maui Economic Development Board and numerous sponsors, the four-day event is known as the top scientific conference in the field of optics and imaging for the surveillance of space. The conference brought together scientists from around the world to offer updates and assessments of current research in the fields of space situational awareness (SSA), space weather and related specialties in astronomy. SSA refers to knowledge of the space environment and the natural and man-made objects in orbit around the Earth.
The Boeing Company, AMOS’s main sponsor, recognizes the need for the future generation to get involved in all areas of space exploration and technological solutions. “Our Global Corporate Citizenship program, which originated on Maui in 2005, continues to contribute to community educational and environmental programs,” said Jerry Cornell, Boeing Site Executive. “AMOS provides a great opportunity for our Boeing experts to engage with Maui County students.”
The students, introduced to space technologies via exhibits and hands-on projects, had the opportunity to meet industry professionals and learn valuable lessons in science, technology, engineering and math subjects. “I learned so much at AMOS and the Boeing exhibits,” said Raider Howard, Lokelani Intermediate 8th grader. “Satellites continue to make a big impact on our community and in the world. We need new technology now and in the future for national security, internet, banking, telephones, television, navigation, scientific exploration and more.”
At Boeing’s simulated optics exhibits, students learned how light is transmitted from the collection points of the large 3.6-meter Haleakala summit telescope, via mirrors to an engineered optics table. Students were tasked to redirect light from a pen laser source, using up to five mirrors, onto moveable pucks, and finally to an optic sensor that buzzed when the laser light touched it. A 3D-printed fast-steering mirror was installed on the simulated optics table, making the laser light bounce off the steering mirror first. That mirror had separate controls, so student teamwork was required to complete the assigned task. “The experiments at AMOS were really interesting,” said Howard. “I might want to be an astronomer.”
Sep 30, 2015 | Community, Environment, Sustainability
Mama’s Fish House, family-owned by Floyd and “Mama” Doris Christenson, has been buying fish directly from Maui fisherman for over 40 years. These local fishermen, representing a way of life, culture and tradition in Hawai’i, consistently deliver the freshest and finest local Maui seafood. In May 2013, Mama’s Fish House, in cooperation with Maui fishermen and the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council (Wespac), funded and deployed the first of two fishing buoys approximately 30 miles off the northeast shore of Maui. The buoys are technically called a Fish Aggregation Device (FAD) and are anchored to the seafloor at a depth of over 1500 ft. “They are located in deep, off-shore waters that are habitat for pelagic species such as tuna, mahi-mahi, ono, and billfish,” said Mama’s Fish House Marketing Director Karen Christenson. “The concept of a FAD is a small platform or skiff that is anchored to the ocean floor, with a GPS beacon for tracking,” Christenson explained. “The floating buoy attracts the fish, offering some protection for smaller fish that, in turn, attract larger predator fish.”
“FADs have proven to be a successful sustainable food source while reducing transit times and fuel costs for fishermen,” said Mama’s Fish House Executive Chef Perry Bateman. While the State of Hawaii maintains a network of FADs across the islands with the objective of providing recreational fishing opportunities, Mama’s FAD is different. “It is the first buoy funded by a private business to support the fishermen and Wespac’s research,” Chef Perry said.
Recognizing that data collection is critical to ensuring sustainability for local Hawai’i fish stocks, Mama’s Fish House encourages fishermen to submit their catch reports to the State of Hawai’i and Wespac. “Having accurate reports is being pono, doing the right thing, and perpetuating our culture of fishing,” said Chef Perry. He added that all Hawai’i-licensed fishermen can fish at Mama’s Fish House funded buoys and sell their catch to anyone. “The goals of community FAD projects are to increase fishing opportunities and cooperative research, and to provide community benefits.”
Sep 16, 2015 | Community
On Saturday, September 19th, Mental Health Kokua (MHK) presents ARISE, a film and music benefit generating mental health awareness, at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center in Kahului. The program includes the world premiere screening of Haleakala: A Trek for Dignity directed by MHK Media Specialist Don Lane and produced by MHK Director Dr. Tom Vendetti. Beginning at 5 pm in the Yokouchi Founder’s Courtyard, the event offers a silent auction with live music performed by multiple Na Hoku Hanohano artists, including Keola and Moanalani Beamer, Uluwehi Guerrero and Makaha Sons. The featured keynote speaker, Jesse Close, is an internationally recognized author, poet and advocate for mental health reform. In her book Resilience: Two Sisters and a Story of Mental Illness, Close chronicles her journey to recovery and activism through the help of actress Glenn Close, her sister.
Unfortunately, negative attitudes and beliefs toward people who have a mental health condition are common. Dr. Vendetti is attempting, through his work at Mental Health Kokua, to change the way those affected are treated in the Maui community and throughout the state. Haleakala: A Trek for Dignity puts a human face on people who experience mental disabilities while hoping to inspire their time of recovery,” said Dr. Vendetti. “Trekking with Don Lane and the other participants in the film, from the summit of Haleakala to the sea, exposed the truth that people can and do achieve optimum recovery with proper mental health treatment and community support.”
“Join us for an amazing night of entertainment benefiting MHK in their efforts to assist those diagnosed with a mental illness and related challenges,” said Lane. “When people ask about the film, I usually speak from my perspective as the director. It’s an inspiring journey, an analogy and proof that recovery is possible — given the opportunity. We want people to know we are here and offer services for those that need it.”
For more information, visit: www.mentalhealthkokua.org. For tickets, visit: www.mauiarts.org or call (808) 242-7469.
Sep 9, 2015 | Education, Stemworks
“Pathways to Our Future”, the annual Ke Alahele Education Fund Benefit Dinner and Auction presented by Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB), was recently held at the Fairmont Kea Lani Resort in Wailea. Providing the stirring opening with oli and pule were Molokai Middle School students Heona Ayau-Odom, Keaheakekehau Ross and their teacher Iolani Kuoha. All three participate in the Hawaiian Immersion Program at the school as well as in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs. “Both girls felt blessed to be part of the event and they have great STEM projects,” said Kuoha, who was named Educator of the Year for 2014 by the Hawai’i Association of Middle Schools. “This year, thanks to MEDB’s Ke Alahele Education Fund, Molokai students were among countless youth statewide empowered through STEM skills. Each semester I get to teach them how to identify problems in the community and how to solve them with answers pertaining to STEM education. In addition, I’m able to exemplify Hawaiian culture and bring it into the 21st century.”
“STEM skills are important to the success of our state,” said Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui. “We couldn’t do this without MEDB,” he explained. “Hawai’i is in the forefront because of their commitment.” Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa, out of the country during the event, sent this message, “There is nothing more important than preparing our children for the future. By encouraging our students to learn more about STEM subjects we hope that one day they will bring new industries back home, diversify our economy and build a more resilient and sustainable community.”
“MEDB has worked vigorously throughout its history to enhance education and training in our community,” said MEDB President and CEO Jeanne Unemori Skog. “This past school year, the awards enabled robotics teams to compete on Maui, Oahu and the Mainland. STEM curricula also empowered students to map our island’s coral reefs, explore our solar system and much more. Thanks to generous businesses and other community stakeholders, we have touched thousands of students,” said Skog.
Sep 4, 2015 | Education, Events
Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB) provides leadership and vision in our community for the responsible development of a strong, diversified economy. MEDB’s Technical Assistance Series, Foundations for Business Success, was created in an effort to help small businesses establish systems, processes, tools and best practices to build a secure foundation for success.
“It is essential for any business to have a solid plan rooted in sound principles and practice to be competitive,” said Frank De Rego Jr., Director of Business Development Projects at MEDB. “The accounting seminar and the other workshops in the series can help businesses build their human capital in knowledge and skills, thus improving services and systems while giving team members more time to focus on growth strategies and customer care. Ultimately, these strategies will help businesses succeed.”
Recently, the Boosting Your Financial IQ Accounting Workshop provided invaluable advice to improve business efficiency, promote good accounting practices and help save on taxes. In addition, it offered an ideal opportunity for business owners to get instruction from accounting experts. Lisa Wells, the main presenter, is an IRS Enrolled Agent and CEO/Founder of Personal Accountant Incorporated. “I think MEDB is providing a wonderful program,” said Wells. “They offer a central resource for the business community. I hope to continue my involvement with MEDB because I believe we serve a common goal — helping the small business owner make informed decisions,” she explained. Wells’ wish for all attendees of the Accounting Workshop is that they walk out educated and ready to take their business to the next level. “I believe we can help businesses become successful”, she said.
“I opened my business six months ago,” said Cecilia Hercik from Olavine Spa, Wailea. “I came to the Boost Your IQ Accounting Workshop for financial advice and to network with other business owners. I truly appreciate this opportunity to help me create a thriving business.”
Aug 26, 2015 | Community
Sponsored by Maui Economic Development Board’s Women in Technology (WIT) Project, the Maui County 4-H Youth Development Program and the Maui Police Department (MPD) Forensic Team recently held this year’s 4-H Tech Connect event. This event challenged over 65 elementary, middle and high school members to investigate a crime scene using the latest forensic techniques. Since 2006, WIT’s Tech Connect has been helping to infuse science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) into the Maui County 4-H experience in alignment with the national 4-H movement.
Recalling the popular TV show, the 8th annual Connect event brought Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) to life for the Maui County 4-H members. The afternoon began with an all-too-real kidnapping intended to bring CSI problem-solving into sharp focus. MPD’s Evidence Specialist Anthony “Tony” Earles gave students an introduction to forensic science along with pointers on collecting evidence and then let the young investigators explore the staged crime scene.
“The students really got into it,” said WIT STEMworks Director Isla Young. “They were able to use real-world forensics to do fingerprint, hair, fiber and footprint analysis. They also got to watch a fascinating DNA presentation by Evidence Specialist Earles!”
After collecting and analyzing clues, 4-H’ers correctly determined that the evidence pointed to Suspect A. The kidnapped victim was successfully returned and the perpetrator arrested by MPD’s Detectives Bennett and Hamilton.
The hands-on activities of analyzing fingerprints and footprints in addition to information about career paths in forensic science and criminal justice provided an experimental learning opportunity for students interested in this career path. The whole experience inspired 4-H’er Kami Echiverri to think about a career in forensics. “I love to help people around the world and CSI gives me the opportunity to do just that,” she said. “I hope more girls can be passionate about STEM.”
Aug 19, 2015 | Stemworks
Earlier this summer, middle-school girls had the opportunity to attend Excite Camp, a Women in Technology (WIT) program sponsored by the Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB). The main goal of Excite Camp is to educate participants in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers. In addition to the learning experience, WIT believes it is important for the girls to see the connection between our cultural heritage and scientific technology. For example, girls take part in events that include geospatial technologies as well as tours of historical sites that integrate Hawaiian traditions into hands-on STEM learning activities.
“The last 15 years, Excite Camp has been held on Maui and open to all Maui County middle-school girls,” said Mapu Quitazol, WIT Program Manager. “This year we are able to expand and take our Excite Camp to Kona, Oahu and Molokai. Each island has the same agenda but very different activities and cultural site visits.”
The camp attendance of between 24 and 30 girls creates a small, intimate group. Each participant joins a group of four and is led by a female mentor. The mentor, who acts as a role model, explains the activities and works in close proximity with each student which helps them feel comfortable in their surroundings. “At the end of the four-day program the girls are no longer strangers, but colleagues and friends,” Quitazol noted. “In addition to getting excited about STEM, they learn the value of teamwork, communication and honoring their island heritage.”
“During Excite Camp the role of engineers was made clearer. It also made me more excited about college and my future career,” said Ruby, an Excite Camp participant. “It was wonderful having people encourage us during Excite Camp,” said Ruthie, another Excite Camp participant. “The mentors made us feel that we are smart and can do anything we put our mind to.”
Aug 12, 2015 | Education, Events
Pathways to our Future is an annual event benefiting the MEDB Ke Alahele education fund. Featuresd are distinguished educators; Lt. Governor Shan Tsutsui and Ms. Lyndelle Tsutsui; Mayor Alan Arakawa and Ms. Ann Arakawa, plus presentation of the 2015 Daniel K. Inouye Innovation Award to a student team that demonstrates the most innovative use of STEM tools and capabilities to serve and improve our community.
It’s coming up soon: Saturday, August 29, 2015 at the Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui. Reception and silent auction start at 4:30 pm, followed by dinner and live auction at 6 pm.
Reserve your tickets now at www.medb.org or call (808) 875-2300. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.
Aug 5, 2015 | Education
Lahainaluna High School arts and communications teacher Nancy Young used her Ke Alahele Education Fund grant to create a new environment in her classroom. Now, instead of the traditional classroom setting with rows of desks for students, Young’s created more of an inspirational space for creativity and innovation. Read all about it here. Young says, “It’s not just a classroom anymore. It is an environment and the kids love it and they produce really amazing work.”
Support projects that provide new opportunities for Maui County youth. Pathways to Our Future, an annual event to benefit the Ke Alahele Education Fund, will be held this year on Saturday August 29, 2015. Join us at the Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea. For tickets, call 875-2300.
Jul 30, 2015 | Education, Stemworks
The recent Mini HI STAR (Hawaii Student/Teacher Research) Program of the University of Hawaii’s Institute for Astronomy, IfA, was sponsored by Maui Economic Development Board and Air Force Research Laboratory. The program provided 11 high school students from Maui and Molokai with four days of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education. The IFA curriculum gave these students the necessary research skills and background to conduct original research projects.
Dr. JD Armstrong, Maui Technology Education and Outreach Specialist at IFA, and teachers, led the students in morning physics and astronomy lectures. Afternoon sessions included the measurement of the positions and brightness of objects in space using image processing and photometric techniques. “We delivered the basic content in talks with PowerPoint® slides that instructed the students on selecting the celestial object they wanted to research for their group presentations,” said Dr. Armstrong. Students observed the sky as it is seen from different parts of the earth remotely via the Las Cumbres Observatory Global Telescope Network. “Access to world-class research equipment offered the participants live views of outer space beamed straight to their computers,” Dr. Armstrong explained. “They were able to analyze the results of the collected image data by processing images with Astrometrica, a software tool that calculates precise positions of the celestial bodies.”
“The HI STAR program experience has helped broaden my knowledge on various astronomy topics,” said Celeste Jongeneelen, a home-schooled 10th grader. “We got to research exoplanets, asteroids and comets, young stellar objects and double stars!” Jongeneelen’s group presented a talk entitled Photometry Analysis of Two Young Open Star Clusters. Their objective was to identify candidate hydrogen disk stars. “Images of two young open star clusters were taken with red, infrared and H-alpha filters,” she explained. “We did the photometry on these images and made color-color charts. If any outliers showed excess in H-alpha in the charts, those are the potential disk stars.” “Our results showed a few candidate disk stars,” Jongeneelen added. “However, further analysis is needed to confirm these candidates.”
