Oct 20, 2011 | Community, Events
At age 25, Ashley Takitani says First Friday in Wailuku has given her the encouragement and affirmation to establish a career in her homegrown community. Takitani works as the marketing director for Maui Thing, the retail store, while also serving as a volunteer on the Wailuku First Friday Committee. Saedene Ota, the owner of Maui Thing and Sae Design, and her staff are active supporters of First Friday in Wailuku. Takitani, a 2004 Baldwin High School graduate, spent about six years away from home, going to school and working in Los Angeles. She jumped at the chance to work with Ota, an award-winning designer involved in many civic activities including the role of University of Hawaii Regent.
First Friday in Wailuku features an evening of entertainment and live acts, local food, art, jewelry and fashion on a block on Market Street. Attendance at First Friday has grown from a few hundred to as many as 4,000 in one night, Takitani said. Maui Thing designed one of the first flyers to attract both residents and visitors to the event and then sponsored the first live band performance at the attraction. “We offer something for family and friends to do on a Friday night,” Takitani said. The 10 or so merchants who put on the event have found that their businesses get a jump start every month by holding the event. “It just does wonders and gives us a really great start to our month,” Takitani said. The merchants have also been happy to welcome other local vendors to showcase their wares and also make money. “First Friday is really all about community. It’s what Maui is all about, we support each other.”
Takitani said the event has proven to her that she can thrive in a career here at home and believes the same can happen for her contemporaries. “Something like First Friday is enticing for young people. The island has grown so much and it’s made it a lot easier to come home,” Takitani said. “When it comes down to it, it’s so much fun and everybody can really have a good time.”
Oct 13, 2011 | Education
Science teacher Maggie Prevenas working on location at Portage Glacier, AK
Award-winning science teacher Margaret “Maggie” Prevenas shares her passion for learning by escorting her students outside the classroom. “As a teacher, I need to bring my students outside and into their environment so they can really see how it works,” she said. Over the course of one school year, the Kalama Intermediate School teacher and a colleague took 7th graders to the Waihee coastline and a protected reserve to see and study first-hand the richness and resources of the land and ocean in the area. This particular exercise was made possible through a Ke Alahele Fund grant administered by Maui Economic Development Board. Prevenas deemed the project “wildly successful,” particularly with “rascal” pupils who turn into engaging students. “Outside in the environment, they are wizards, they are leaders,” she said. “Not all kids are going to be scientists but science is going to play an active role in their future on Maui and they can learn how to be good stewards of their environment.”
Prevenas continues to improve her eight-year teaching career by learning more about how she can best serve her students. Earlier this year, she was awarded an Endeavor Fellowship with NASA. The project provides live, online training for K-12 educators who are working to earn a certificate in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education from Teachers College, Columbia University in New York. “I’m trying to understand how my students learn so I can light their fire and get them to take over stewardship of the Earth and the environment they live in,” she said. Her lessons in Waihee have focused on global climate and ocean acidification. Prevenas’ mantra has been “let no child be left inside” which represents her stance that students learn best by engaging and connecting with the world they live in. “They all get to see how unspoiled, how beautiful Maui truly is and then they can become aware of this when global climate changes happen.”
Oct 6, 2011 | Community
Continuing our series on newly appointed County Department Directors, reflecting the role of government in responding to community values and needs.
Former County Council Member Jo Anne Johnson says she uses her knowledge of the governmental budgetary process and desire to lead by example to advance the mission of the County of Maui Department of Transportation. Johnson’s department manages one of the fastest growing transit systems in the United States — more than 2.5 million passengers use the public transit system each year, according to Johnson. “Transportation impacts the lives of everyone here in Maui County and especially those who are mobility challenged, so what our department does impacts the overall quality of life for all. We will always try to improve on that quality of life to the best of our ability and within our financial means.”
Johnson says one of the biggest challenges her department faces is the government’s dwindling financial resources. “We have to work more creatively in the area of finance to meet the growing needs of the people in the area of transportation. The old adage of ‘doing more with less’ has never been more relevant in carrying out the goals of the department.” Johnson says she takes a team approach to her job, seeking input from the people closest to the issue. “My basic philosophy is one of leading by example…My personal values are governed by my sincere desire to treat people honestly and respectfully and to do the best job I possibly can for the people of Maui,” Johnson says.
Johnson was married for more than 30 years to the late Jim Johnson who died of complications due to Parkinson‟s disease. She recently married Rabbi Larry Winer, whom she dated more than 35 years ago and reconnected with after Jim Johnson’s death. In her spare time, Johnson enjoys going to the movies and listening to music while she’s on the treadmill. She and her new husband also like to travel around the island and take in Maui’s sights and events. “I love my job and it is simply a continuation of my role as a public servant for the people.”
Sep 29, 2011 | Community, Events
Roy Silva has accepted the role of Maui Fair Director for the first time this year. “I’ve always loved the fair. I think it’s the greatest tradition Maui has,” he says. A former county employee, Silva served for nine years as its Parade Committee chairman. As Fair Director, he takes charge of all the committees and dozens of volunteers who operate the event starting Thursday and running through Sunday at the War Memorial Complex in Wailuku. As many as 5,400 participants including five grand marshals, Hawaii Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz and Mayor Alan Arakawa are scheduled to appear in Thursday’s parade, scheduled to begin at 4.30 p.m.
Silva said he wanted to serve his community in a unique way and took the opportunity to lead the Fair when he was offered the chance. This year’s Fair theme “A Timeless Tradition” represents what the event has meant to the thousands who have come to enjoy rides, learn from exhibits, indulge in local food and support nonprofits that use the Fair to raise money. “The Maui Fair is the oldest family tradition on island. You just can’t beat it,” Silva said. “There’s always a chance you’ll run into someone you know or haven’t seen for a long time.”
FOCUS MAUI NUI will be at the Fair again this year, gathering the opinions of the community with its Annual “Pulse of the People” 2011 Poll. FOCUS MAUI NUI is a voice, a plan, a vision for Maui County’s future created for and by the people who live here – people like you. Participate in the process by letting your views be known. Youth Alliance members and other volunteers will be on hand to help gather your points of view. Visit FOCUS MAUI NUI at the Entrance Lanai of the War Memorial Gym during Fair hours.
Sep 22, 2011 | Environment, Events, Small Business
This year’s Advanced Maui Optical and Space Technologies (AMOS) Conference provided an unmatched opportunity for Maui Oceanit Program Manager Curt Leonard. “To remain relevant in any business environment it is important to maintain close ties with “old friends” from industry while at the same time exploring new companies and emerging technologies,” Leonard said. The AMOS Conference is a program of the Maui Economic Development Board, whose mission includes taking innovative actions that strengthen existing industry as well as diversifying through new opportunities. The event held in Wailea earlier this month drew more than 600 participants from across the United States and countries such as Spain, Germany and Italy. The growing interest in the event is testament to its worldwide reputation as the premier space situational awareness conference in the world, taking full advantage of its location on Maui and the island’s cutting-edge telescopes atop 10,000-foot Haleakala.
Oceanit typically sets up an exhibit booth during the conference to help facilitate introductions to the company’s capabilities and serve as an ice breaker for business development discussions. Leonard said the event also gives Oceanit a chance to give back to the local community. “As a company we are committed to making a difference in our community, a mantra that is woven into Oceanit corporate fabric,” he said. This year Oceanit volunteered staff to guide students making a tour of conference exhibits and attending a session with an astronaut. “This is a huge hit with middle school students and Oceanit is proud to play a small role in a wonderful opportunity to expose and encourage Maui students to consider career paths in science, technology, engineering and math,” Leonard said. He added that part of Oceanit’s vision is to contribute to a thriving technology industry in Hawaii, to diversify its economy, and ensure that students who go into science and technology fields have a place to work in Hawaii. Oceanit’s Maui office has expertise in optical sciences and design, robotic systems, and consulting engineering; it currently has a contract to evaluate Kahului Harbor shoreline protection options to prevent beach erosion.
Sep 15, 2011 | Community, Sustainability
Every day of the year, volunteers dish out food at Hale Kau Kau, the island’s only daily soup kitchen. The volunteer force is an integral part of the nonprofit’s mission to feed the hungry and the homeless, according to its Executive Director, Monsignor Terry Watanabe. He also serves as the pastor of St. Theresa Church where the kitchen operates 365 days of the year. “I think there’s a real sense of caring in South Maui, people really want to reach out and do something tangible.” Watanabe said. The soup kitchen off Lipoa Street marks its 20th anniversary this year. Watanabe noted that dozens of people — residents and visitors to the island — have contributed their time and talent to be sure that the kitchen never closes, not even for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
One of these volunteers is Gail Mitchell, who began donating time to the program 18 years ago while making family trips to Maui. When she retired here 8 years ago, she became even more involved in working in the kitchen and making deliveries to the homebound — the elderly, the sick and disabled — people who might not otherwise get a hot dinner. “My faith in the mission of the church is all the motivation I need,” says Mitchell. “Feeding the hungry fulfills such a basic human need. The bonus, for me, is working alongside other volunteers who really have a heart, and working with great kids doing community service, whether for school requirements, legal obligation, or to earn food stamps or housing assistance.”
Coordinators estimate they’ve served more than a million meals since Hale Kau Kau’s opening. In its outreach work, Hale Kau Kau collaborates with churches in South Maui to regularly collect and distribute nonperishable canned food and other items. The Hale Kau Kau program has only one paid full-time staff member, a lead cook and two part-time paid employees. “The rest is done by volunteers. People are generous,” Watanabe said. “Our hearts go out to the people we serve and to those who make Hale Kau Kau successful.” Food donations, monetary contributions and volunteer manpower are accepted at Hale Kau Kau year round. For more information, call 875-8754.
Sep 8, 2011 | Community
Parents at Kamali’i Elementary School in Kihei know that teachers don’t educate alone, and that’s why a group of them are launching a new tutoring program this month. It’s called “Study Buddies,” and instead of getting assistance with homework after school, students will be able to get help before the school day begins. “Children who are having difficulty finishing homework, grasping certain basic core concepts or those who need to practice with their reading or math skills can take advantage of this program,” said Rachel Christopher, one of the parents behind Study Buddies.
The program involves two volunteers per day devoting 25 minutes a morning from 8 to 8:25 a.m. Monday through Friday. As the program progresses, more volunteers may be needed.
Study Buddies does not replace after-school tutoring assistance nor the work of community volunteers and parents during the school day. Christopher, the mother of two children including a 4th-grader at Kamali’i Elementary, said she understands that it’s difficult for teachers to allot individual quality time with each of their students. “Children who are struggling often consume more of a teacher’s time, which leaves less attention for the rest of the class,” Christopher said.
The goal of Study Buddies is to help struggling students finish their homework and build their skills in the areas of reading, writing and math. Christopher said she believes every child deserves the opportunity to tap into their potential, but not all are able to because of varying situations including the lack of one-on-one time to build confidence in their academic skills. Study Buddies will be open to all grades. Tutoring will be conducted in the school library. Once the program gets under way, Christopher and the same group of parents hope to start a math club to support basic concepts and core math skills. To volunteer for Study Buddies, contact Rachel Christopher at 385-8885 or email at racheken[at]hawaii[dot]rr[dot]com.
Aug 31, 2011 | Community
Continuing our series on newly appointed County Department Directors, reflecting the role of government in responding to community values and needs.
Department of Water Supply Director Dave Taylor approaches his job by taking cues from the community he serves. “The biggest thing I’d like people to see is that I work for them. It’s their water system, not mine,” Taylor said. “I honestly see myself as the water maintenance guy for the people.” As water director, Taylor oversees 200 employees and a system that features 750 miles of pipeline, 125 water tanks and six treatment plants. “That’s a lot to take care of. It’s always difficult and it’s certainly a challenge,” he said. What brings the most enjoyment is working his staff. “We have a fantastic group of incredibly talented people in many different professions. The public would be pleasantly surprised if they knew how deeply our staff members care about what they do. I am proud that they act as if they are working for their own family and their own home.”
Taylor recently outlined several options to the Maui County Council on how the water system could be improved over the next decade. It would take an investment of some $30 million, he said. For now, Taylor focuses his energy on establishing a clear vision for his agency, setting goals that include providing clear and safe water efficiently. He said he drinks water from the tap all the time and considers county water rates to be a bargain, in part because it costs less than $2 per thousand gallons for water to be delivered to each home on Maui. “You can’t beat the value of county water.”
Taylor grew up in Southern California, earning his bachelor’s degree in mechanical and environmental engineering from the University of California at Santa Barbara. He obtained his master’s degree in structural engineering from UC Berkeley. In his spare time, Taylor enjoys windsurfing, a sport he picked up from the age of 16, and keeping fit with regular gym work outs.
Aug 24, 2011 | Education
The Ke Alahele Education Fund has freed Iao School robotics advisor Jayne Hori from worries about fundraising and allowed her and her students to focus on learning. “It fits perfectly with STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) standards and learning opportunities,” she said. Both of Hori’s children, Taylor, a high school senior, and Trent, a sophomore, have benefited from a grant in their middle school days and now in high school. “They both are not afraid of taking STEM type classes or programs in and out of school,” Hori said. Instead of raising funds for travel, Hori said she and her students pour their energy in preparing and then participating in robotics tournaments.
“The Ke Alahele Education Fund has impacted me personally and professionally,” Hori said. Grants have helped pay for registration fees, robotics kits, extra robotic equipment and parts, laptops and travel. According to Hori, a lot of grant making institutions do not pay for travel. “It takes a lot of the worry out of the way when you receive funding from Maui Economic Development Board. The students can concentrate on their project and the parents don’t have to worry about how they going to come up with the money to pay for their child’s travel expenses.” She said it would be hard on students if they worked on robotic projects and then didn’t have a venue to share and test their knowledge. Hori said MEDB’s Ke Alahele Education Fund opportunities are also open to community civic groups such as 4-H and Boy and Girl Scouts, and fund all kinds of STEM activities, not just robotics.
“A Pathway to the Future,” a benefit dinner and auction for the fund, will be held on August 27th at 4:30 p.m. in the Grand Wailea Resort. Guests include U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye and Ms. Irene Hirano, and Mayor Alan Arakawa and Ann Arakawa. For tickets, which are $150 per person, call 875-2300 or visit medb.org.
Aug 17, 2011 | Community
Guided by the Focus Maui Nui vision, values and key strategies for action, Youth Alliance members are empowered with the skills and experiences to become leaders for change. For the third consecutive year, 16-year-old Adam Skelton has signed up to be a part of the Youth Alliance. “I’ve learned a lot and picked up experiences I’ve never had before,” the Upcountry student said.
Youth Alliance members in grades 9 through 12 gather monthly during the school year to explore the many facets of the Maui community including the business sector, cultural sites, civic leaders and sometimes a Neighbor Island. This behind-the-scenes look is accompanied by projects and activities that give participants a greater understanding of how the Maui community works. “I wish the program would have been available to me when I was in high school,” said Willow Krause, a 1998 Baldwin High School graduate and Youth Alliance project coordinator.
Skelton said Krause accommodates the students by exploring their fields of interest. For example, Skelton, who has aspirations of building his own business one day, has seen first-hand how local entrepreneurs thrive. He said he’s not interested in a firefighter career, but visiting a local fire station gave him insight into the field. “Firefighters don’t just fight fires. They go out into the community and help out in a number of ways.” Born and reared on Maui, Skelton said it was the Youth Alliance program that brought his attention to local issues such as the previous public school Furlough Fridays, organic farming and points of interests on Lanai.
Skelton said he would highly recommend students to enroll this school year. “I’d say ‘Give it a try and see how you like it. You might just love it.’“ Applications are now being accepted from high school students including those who are homeschooled. The program is free, and the deadline to sign up is Sept. 9. For more information, contact Krause at 875-2432 or willow[at]medb[dot]org.
At age 25, Ashley Takitani says First Friday in Wailuku has given her the encouragement and affirmation to establish a career in her homegrown community. Takitani works as the marketing director for Maui Thing, the retail store, while also serving as a volunteer on the Wailuku First Friday Committee. Saedene Ota, the owner of Maui Thing and Sae Design, and her staff are active supporters of First Friday in Wailuku. Takitani, a 2004 Baldwin High School graduate, spent about six years away from home, going to school and working in Los Angeles. She jumped at the chance to work with Ota, an award-winning designer involved in many civic activities including the role of University of Hawaii Regent.
