Waianae Intermediate School Spirit Week Videos & Photos 8/30/12

Sen. Shimabukuro read to students on 8/30/12 as part of WIS’ “Spirit Week.”  She enjoyed watching new teachers perform a dancing skit during the assembly (please see YouTube videos below) and running into students she knew.

Five players from the Nanakuli All-Star Little League team who attend WIS were recognized at the school assembly on  8/30/12.  The team was the 2012 HI Little League champion and regional finalist.

 

Meet Ann Mahi – Nanakuli-Waianae Complex Area Superintendent Aug. 30

Click image to view the large PDF.

Leeward Coast Parade of All Champions Sep. 1

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2012

The Leeward community invites everyone to the “Parade of all Champions” on Saturday, September 1, 2012 at 10:00 am departing from Nanakui High & Intermediate School, and going through Nanakui town and along Farrington Hwy., and ending at PVT Land Co.

The Leeward Coast community is excited about this opportunity to showcase the 2012 achievements of our talented sports team from the Leeward Coast:

*All Star Nanakuli Little League

* Nanakuli High School Golden Hawks Varsity Girls Softball Division II OIA Champions

* Nanakuli High School Girls JV Basketball Division 2 OIA Champions

* Team Hawaii 12 under Little League Girls Series Softball USA Regional’s 3rd Place World Series

Senator Maile Shimabukuro stated, “Come and experience the spirit of aloha of the Wai‘anae Coast, what I call God’s country. Much mahalo to the City and State administrations for providing support, also to sponsors DRHorton, PVT Land Company, Kalaeloa Raceway, Paradise Lua, Aiwohi Trucking, R&K, and Porky’s Trucking for supporting the Leeward side.”

“ The Parade strengthens community ties and shows our people the vibrant community we live in.”

Parade Line up:

• HPD Solo Bike to open Parade
• Parade Coordinators – Patty Teruya and Lani Sylva (Golf Cart)
• Nanakuli High & Intermediate School Color Guard
• Nanakuli High & Intermediate School Marching Band
• Sports Teams Being Honored: (1) Nanakuli Little League All Stars – R&K Trucking, (2) Nanakuli High School Golden Hawks Girls Varsity Softball Team-Division 2 OIA Champions -Aiwohi Trucking, (3) Nanakuli High School Girls JV Basketball Division 2 OIA Champions – Aiwohi Trucking, (4) Team Hawaii 12 under Little League Girls Series Softball Champs, USA Regionals 3rd Place World Series – Porky’s Trucking.
• HPD Sole Bike to Close Parade

For More Information, Contact:
Patty Kahanamoku Teruya, 808 312-2262
Lani Sylva, 808 690-0337

[Mahalo to Patty Teruya for providing this parade information.]

Message from UH West Oahu Chancellor Awakuni 8/23/12

Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa, UHWO Chancellor Gene Awakuni, Sen. Jill Tokuda, UH President M. R. C. Greenwood, Sen. Clarence Nishihara. [Photo by Russ Awakuni]

From: Gene I. Awakuni, Chancellor, University of Hawaii – West Oahu
Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 3:14 PM

UH West Oahu is aware of questions circulating in the community about construction costs and financing, and we understand there are some subcontractors who are unhappy with the speed of their payments.

We and RCUH (the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii) are in active communication with the general contractor and others and have recently met with the contractor to verify the timing and extent of outstanding costs. The Board of Regents has been made aware of this issue.

RCUH managed the project with Chancellor Gene Awakuni as Principal Investigator. With a project of this size and complexity, it is not unexpected that we would encounter some delays in processing. This has been a challenging project to complete for years and has, in what has been a difficult economy, required some creative means of obtaining financing to meet the pressing covenants with the land donor.

We’re proud and grateful we were able to complete and open it up to 2000 students this week.

The construction cost of UH West Oahu is $173 million. We have in place a finance package of $177 million. The details of it are as
follows:
1.  General obligation bonds of $91 million  2. Revenue bonds of $68 million  3. EB5 Loan provided by the CanAm Group for $18 million  (the attached FAQ provides background about the EB5 loan)

Pursuant to Section 37D of HRS, we obtained the approval of the State Attorney General and the Director of Budget and Finance in order to apply for and get this loan.  The $18 million is in an escrow account awaiting our project’s approval by the U.S. Government.  The money was due to be released in June, then July, and now projected to be October.

In effect, we have encountered a cash flow problem.

Due to this unanticipated delay in the release of this money, the university is in the process of developing and will present to the Board of Regents if it should be necessary a proposal for short-term funding so that we may meet our obligations. We thank the contractors for their patience,hard work, and for diligently meeting our deadlines. This matter is of urgent concern and it is our intention to catch up with payments as swiftly as possible.

Related Post:
UH West O`ahu Opening Day Photos 8/18/12

Hawaiian Language Immersion Update

From: Sterling Wong
Subject: FW: ESEA Waiver/New Hawaiian Test Development Team
To: “Maile Shimabukuro

Aloha Senator,

Per our discussion yesterday, please see below for information on what’s happening now with the testing issue.  Mahalo again for all your help.  We would’ve never got this far without your kokua.  More information to come.

Sterling Wong
Public Policy Manager
Office of Hawaiian Affairs
711 Kapi’olani Blvd. Ste. 500
Honolulu, HI 96813

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Help Na Keiki O Ka Moi get to the Molokai Hoe!

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K9 Kokua’s Summer Splash – August 25

From: K9 Kokua

Aloha all!

Summer Splash is almost here! We are very excited that we were able to put this together!

Many people have been asking if we are having a dog wash at this year’s Summer Splash, but due to the timing and our volunteer numbers, sadly we are unable to offer that to our supporters this year.

However, we have a volunteer groomer that is offering her services of fur trims and nail clippings at her booth.

And keeping with the theme of summer (and beating the heat)…we will again be in the covered breezeway area and be handing out handheld fans to attendees.

Ever meet a certified therapy dog? Come and say hello to the Tails of Aloha team or bring your keiki to enjoy the petting zoo! We have a variety of booths for all ages.

Guess the number of balls in a vehicle, courtesy of Cutter Pearl City, and WIN a prize!

As an added bonus, McGruff the Crime dog will be there this year!

We greatly appreciate your support for the dogs in need!

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The Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawaii/Healthy Communities Hawaii: Seeking Excecutive Director

Please see job listing below and also posted on the web at http://www.tobaccofreehawaii.org/about-us/jobs/

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawai’i / Healthy Communities Hawai’i

INTRODUCTION
The Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawai’i (CTFH) is seeking a new Executive Director as it changes its name to Healthy Communities Hawaii (HCH) and expands its mission to enable a more collaborative, coordinated and effective response to the high rates of chronic disease and health disparities among underserved populations in Hawaii.

CTFH recently concluded a community process to examine public health gaps in Hawaii in order to potentially expand its work.  As a result of this process, CTFH decided to change its name and become an umbrella organization in public health with a mission “to improve the health and quality of life in Hawai`i.”

The new Executive Director will lead HCH’s expansion effort, while also continuing CTFH’s long and successful history of working on tobacco control issues.

Key attributes of the new Executive Director will be:

* Entrepreneurial and visionary leadership with an ability to build programs and an organization

* Skilled and experienced nonprofit manager

* Ability to formulate and execute fund development strategies

* Experienced in public policy advocacy, ideally in public health and/or health promotion

JOB SUMMARY
The Executive Director administers the agency and its services with the direction, policies and long range plans of the Board of Directors. The Executive Director serves as chief executive and planning officer.  The Executive Director provides visionary leadership to oversee and manage agency functions including program and policy development; administrative compliance, coalition coordination and membership, fiscal affairs, grant submissions; fund development; staff hiring, termination and supervision; public relations; advocacy; strategic plan development/execution, and outreach to partner/potential partner organizations.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
* Bachelors degree, graduate degree preferred, in public policy, public health, or other relevant field.

* Five or more years of management experience in a nonprofit environment.

* Demonstrated ability to fundraise and manage grants and contracts.

* Knowledge of Hawaii’s legislative and policy-making environment and process.

* Success working within diverse coalitions a must.

SALARY
Salary commensurate with experience.

APPLICATION PROCESS
Please submit a cover letter and resume to searchcommittee@tobaccofreehawaii.org

This position is open until filled.  The Search Committee will review applicants on a rolling basis.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
CTFH/HCH provides equal employment opportunity in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Illegal Dumping Protest Draws Over 200 Wai`anae Coast Residents

Ka Wai Ola O Wai`anae organized a rally of over 200 people to protest illegal dumping on the Wai`anae Coast on 8/17/12.  L-R: Carlos Silva, Antone Cabral, Richard Medeiros, Tammy Cabral, and Jolyn Ballenti.

Illegal Residential Dumping Sign Holding Rally, August 17, 9am
Organized by Ka Wai Ola O Waianae, a nonprofit organization

From keikis to kupuna’s, over 200 family and friends gathered on August 17 to raise awareness on illegal dumping on the Waianae Coast. We, as a community, are coming together to stop illegal dumping in Waianae. We understand that people have to dump, but they should dump legally. Illegal dumping has been a problem that has affected the Waianae Coast for many years.

Special thanks to these groups and organizations who came out: Waianae Boys and Girls, Waianae ROTC, Nanakuli High School, Nanakuli All-Star baseball team, Leeward Paniolas, Makaha Civic Club, Rise-Up, Hoomalu, Nani o Waianae, Learning Disabilities of Hawaii, Waianae High cheerleaders, Waianae Tigers, Coach Kepa, Leeward Canoe Club, McDonald’s Waianae, and many community members.

Stay tuned for more positive events from Ka Wai Ola O Waianae. For more information on how you can get involved and join our task force, visit our Facebook page at Ka Wai Ola O Waianae or email Tammy Cabral at  ttcabral@hotmail.com

Communication Director
Pake Salmon
pakesalmon@yahoo.com

KHON2: “Stop Illegal Dumping in Waianae,” 8/15/12.

HawaiiNewsNow: “Waianae Neighbors Fight Illegal Dumping,” 8/18/12.

Waianae Outdoor Fitness Area Fundraiser

Sam “Kamu” Kapoi and fellow members of Wai`anae’s Na Keiki O Ka Mo’i Canoe Club are heading a movement to have the City & County of Honolulu build an Outdoor Fitness Area at Pokai Bay. The video was shot at the Neal S. Blaisdell Park in Pearl City (Waimalu) to point out the type of facility they have in mind. To help with the fundraiser, email him at samkapoi@gmail.com

HCAP Family Orientation Night – Thursday August 23, 2012

 

West Side Residents Support Legal Aid Fundraiser

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Maile Shimabukuro, Esq.
Phone: 808-696-6322 ext. 4# or 808-349-3075
Email: mashima@lashaw.org
Fax: 808-696-5809

LEGAL AID HOSTS INAUGURAL “JUSTICE GAMES” SCAVENGER HUNT FUNDRAISER

Since 1950, the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii has been an important part of the community in Hawaii, providing free legal services to low-income individuals and families. With 10 offices statewide and an office on each island, Legal Aid assisted more than 10,000 people in 2011 with their civil litigation issues.

In the spring of 2012, while facing severe potential funding losses, Legal Aid contemplated layoffs and branch office closures. “It was an extremely difficult time for Legal Aid,” said Nalani Fujimori Kaina, Legal Aid’s Executive Director. Legal Aid continues to diversify its funding and search for new fundraising opportunities. “The Justice Games is unique way for people to support Legal Aid by participating in a scavenger hunt and after-party. We hope to raise awareness and a sense of social responsibility in young professionals who participate in the Justice Games, through a fun and interactive networking event,” Director Kaina explained.

Legal Aid is hosting its inaugural Justice Games Fundraiser, a scavenger hunt for Hawaii’s young professionals in Downtown Honolulu. Individuals will learn more about the services Legal Aid provides and by participating will help ensure Legal Aid can continue to meet the needs of Hawaii’s low-income individuals and families.

Date: Friday, October 12, 2012, 5:00pm to 9:00pm
Location: M Nightclub, Restaurant Row
Cost: $500.00 per Scavenger Hunt Team (up to 5 members) includes participation in the race as well as tickets for after party Pau Hana event
– $40.00 for Pau Hana event only
Contact for Fundraiser: Elise von Dohlen, elvondo@lashaw.org, 808-527-8056
Twitter: @JusticeGames12

Several of Legal Aid’s former clients are supporting the fundraiser by sharing their stories, photos, and contact information with the media (see their stories below).

CLIENTS HELPED BY THE LEGAL AID SOCIETY OF HAWAI`I

Legal Aid Helps Homeless Family Finally Get Benefits and Repay the State

Mikaele Keli, grandaughter Kalida Keli-Hoyohoy, and Jewelynn Keli*

Mikaele Keli and his wife and grandaughter were homeless and had waited nearly 2 years for his social security application to be approved when he came to Legal Aid for assistance. Mr. Keli had struggled with drug addication throughout his life, and was in and out of jail. Although he had worked as a tree-trimmer for several years, he injured his back on the job. Legal Aid successfully represented Mr. Keli, and he was awarded nearly $9,000 in retroactive benefits, and the federal government repaid the state for the welfare assistance he received. Now that the Kelis have income, they hope to finally get into a transitional shelter in Kalaeloa.

Legal Aid Helps Abused and Abandoned Mother and Child Get Favorable Divorce Settlement

Dollyann Guerrero*

Dollyann Guerrero was married to her physically abusive husband for nearly 3 decades. He frequently abandoned the family, eventually forcing Dollyann and her minor son to move into a homeless shelter. In 2011, Dollyann finally mustered the courage to contact Legal Aid for help with a divorce. Legal Aid filed a motion to set the case for trial, and was eventually able to help achieve a settlement. Legal Aid also filed an order so that Dollyann could get a portion of her ex-husband’s retirement. Around June 2012, Dollyann and her 9-year-old son could finally afford to move into public housing on the Windward side of O`ahu, and start a new, more stable life.

Legal Aid Reverses Welfare Termination for Family of Six

Renee Dalija with her daughter, Shawna Egami*

Renee Dalija is a married mother of 4 who has suffered from disabling depression and physical ailments for well over a decade. Her depression was triggered by a series of tragedies: her 4 month old baby died of SIDS; two uncles died; her premature son had to be put down shortly after birth; and her 6-year-old son is medically fragile. Unfortunately, DHS reduced Mrs. Dalija’s benefits after determining that she was no longer disabled. Fortunately, Legal Aid got DHS to reverse the adverse action, and also assisted her with obtaining SSI benefits shortly thereafter.

Legal Aid Helps Bed-Ridden Man Execute Power of Attorney & Advanced Healthcare Directive

William & Billielani Po`oloa*

William Po`oloa contacted Legal Aid through his hospice social worker because he was in need of a durable power of attorney (DPOA) and Advanced Healthcare Directive (AHCD). In addition, his social security benefits were reduced, and the state stopped paying for his Medicare premiums. Three Legal Aid staff members visited Mr. Po`oloa at his nursing home to notarize and witness the execution of his DPOA and AHCD. With the DPOA and AHCD in hand, Mrs. Po`oloa finally had the ability to handle her husband’s financial and medical affairs.

Legal Aid Saves Single Mother of Four from Homelessness

Danielle Nicolas and her son, Macky*

Danielle Nicolas and her four children were faced with an emergency: they were being evicted in four days and at risk of homelessness when she called Legal Aid. She lived in public housing, and fell behind on her rent after being sanctioned by the Department of Human Services (DHS). Legal Aid helped Ms. Nicolas appeal the sanction, and convinced the HI Public Housing Authority (HPHA) to delay the eviction. Fortunately, Legal Aid also convinced DHS to withdraw the sanction by demonstrating that Ms. Nicolas had good cause. Once DHS withdrew the sanction, HPHA also agreed to withdraw the eviction.

Contacts:

Media Contact:

Maile Shimabukuro, Esq., Phone: 808-696-6322 ext. 4# or 808-349-3075;
Fax: 808-696-5809; Email: mashima@lashaw.org

For more information about the event contact:

Elise von Dohlen at Ph 808-527-8056; Fax 808-527-8088; elvondo@lashaw.org
Twitter: @JusticeGames12

Legal Aid clients:

*Client phone numbers and photos available upon request; contact Maile Shimabukuro for further information, at 808-696-6322 ext. 4# or 808-349-3075;
Fax: 808-696-5809; Email: mashima@lashaw.org

Noise Advisory for Aug. 28, 2012

Hawaii Legislature’s Website Wins Online Democracy Award

Pacific Business News

The Hawaii Legislature’s website won the Online Democracy Award at the National Conference of State Legislatures conference earlier this month.

The website – www.capitol.hawaii.gov – was redesigned and upgraded last year.

The award is given each year to a legislature, legislative chamber or caucus website that makes democracy user-friendly.

“Through public input and the teamwork of our diligent staff, the Hawaii State Legislature’s website has become a more user-friendly, accessible portal for citizens of all ages wishing to participate in or learn more about the legislative process,” Senate President Shan Tsutsui said in a statement. “The website helps citizens throughout Hawaii to connect to information and policy issues that directly impact their lives and communities.”

Rell Sunn’s Menehune Surfing Championships 2012 – Menehune Triple Lei of Surfing “Lei Pakolu O Ka Nalu Menehune” – Nov. 23 & 24

Aloha,   ‘Hanahou’ouHou!!

The Rell Sunn Menehune Surfing Championships is back and will be held at Makaha Beach this November 23rd and 24th 2012.

Keiki’s ranging in ages 4 to 12 years old will participate in 3 different categories:  Bodyboarding, Shortboarding, and Longboarding.

37 years ago, the “Queen of Makaha” took it upon herself to develop a program for the youth living on the leeward side of O’ahu. Statistics from the area in relation to youth violence, gang activity, substance abuse were rampant among the youth aged 16 and under.

Knowing this Rell Sunn’s idea was to influence the kids earlier before they were infected and became part of the statistics.  Known as “Rell Sunn’s Menehune Surf Meet”, this event is focused on the keiki’s, to respect the environment and themselves.  This annual event became the foundation for many now pro surfers and executives who realized that they too can achieve and are now productive members of the community.  What began as a community activity to address youth at risk has blossomed into a state wide event where hundreds of children and their families participate every year.

Rell Sunn passed away in 1998, but the surf meet that benefited thousands of youth is still alive.  This year marks the 37th anniversary of Rell Sunn’s dream, and we are asking for your help in making this event a success.

Rell left behind a daughter (Jan) who, for the past 14 years, has been holding this event in her mother’s memory and she needs your help.  A Corporate donation or sponsorship would go a long way to help.  It is your involvement and charitable giving that allows us to continue on.   At this time, I’m asking for your support through Product, Promotional Items/discounts, and of course monetary donations are welcome.  We are a Non-Profit 501c3.  All donations are tax deductible.  If you have any questions, please call Jan Sunn-Carreira at the number listed below.

Mahalo Nui Loa for your Kokua,
Jan Sunn-Carreira
Cel: 949.795.8268
Email: jan@rellsunn.com
Address:  RSEF, 84-012 Makau St., Makaha, HI  96792

November 23 & 24th 2012

We are on our 37th Annual Rell Sunn Menehune Surf Contest out on the West Side at Makaha Beach.  We have about 250 children between 4-12 years old that compete in the event.

The purpose of this program is to educate Hawaii’s youth about sportsmanship, the environment and to combat juvenile delinquency. This contest has been a spring board for many professional surfers who have excelled in their lives and have in turn come back and ‘given’ back to the community.  We stress sportsmanship and environmental education to our keiki’s and everyone for it’s a subject that our foundation is very passionate about.

We also incorporated a new program with the John A. Burns School of Medicine University of Hawaii and provided free medical screenings, blood pressure, eye exams, and glucose screenings for all ages at this event.

August 2012 NMNB Report

Congratulations Makakilo-Kapolei-Honokai Hale Softball All Stars!

MAKAKILO-KAPOLEI-HONOKAI HALE ALL-STARS
2012 LITTLE LEAGUE SOFTBALL STATE CHAMPIONS
2012 LITTLE LEAGUE SOFTBALL WEST REGION CHAMPIONS
2012 LITTLE LEAGUE SOFTBALL WORLD SERIES 3RD PLACE OVERALL

As 2012 State Champions, the 2012 Makakilo-Kapolei-Honokai Hale Little League softball team represented Hawai`i in the LLWS West Region Tournament that was held July 21-27 in San Bernadino, California.

Photo from the softball world series website.
Go to http://www.softballworldseries.com for many more photos of the team throughout the 2012 LL Softball World Series!

The team won the West Region Championship and moved on to the Little League Softball World Series in Portland, Oregon.

At the LL Softball World Series, the team achieved an outstanding 4-2 tournament record and placed 3rd overall by beating the Central team in Game 26 with a score of 6-2.

The players, coaches, manager & staff demonstrated excellence and dedication in achieving a winning record:
Kalyn Higa, Ciena Kauhi, Keani Nahinu, Kodi Benoza, Lena Kotrys, Dallas Pollard-Brownell, Cranci Kamaka, Mahina Piilani, Breisha Wagner, Lyndsey Hernandez, Nahali`aalohalana Faurot, Keelie Pak, Shannon Pascua-Stanton;
Manager Derek Higa and Coaches Vernon Stanton and Cranston Kamaka.

By the way the way the team played and carried themselves throughout the state and west region tournaments, they made the State of Hawai`i proud.

Congratulations!

UH West O`ahu Opening Day Photos 8/18/12

Senator Shimabukuro attended the UHWO Opening Day ceremony and festival on 8/18/12. Click any of the photos to enlarge.

 

The Legislature presented certificates to UHWO Chancellor Gene Awakuni on 8/18/12.  L-R: Sen. David Ige, Rep. Aaron Johanson, Sen. Glen Wakai, Sen. Michelle Kidani, Rep. Mark Takai, Rep. Kymberly Pine, Sen. Mike Gabbard, Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa, Sen. Wil Espero, Chancellor Gene Awakuni, Rep. Sharon Har, Rep. Ty Cullen, Sen. Clarence Nishihara, Sen. Jill Tokuda, Sen. Maile Shimabukuro, Rep. Henry Aquino.  [Photo by Russ Awakuni]

Legislators untied a maile lei as part of the UHWO Opening Day ceremony on 8/18/12.  L-R: Sen. Wil Espero, Rep. Kymberly Pine, Rep. Mark Takai, Rep. Aaron Johanson, Sen. Maile Shimabukuro, Sen. Michelle Kidani, Rep. Faye Hanohano, Rep. Sharon Har, Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa, Chancellor Gene Awakuni, Sen. Jill Tokuda, UH President M. R. C. Greenwood, Sen. Clarence Nishihara, Sen. Mike Gabbard, Sen. David Ige.   [Photo by Russ Awakuni]

Update 8/24/12Click image to view photo album.

Article Update: Message from UH West Oahu Chancellor Awakuni 8/23/12

LEEWARD COAST REVIVAL Aug. 26-31, 2012

From: Bryan Wittekind <pastor_wbc@hawaiiantel.net>

Aloha,

Please find below our informational flyer about an upcoming Revival that the First Southern Baptist Church of Nanakuli and the Waianae Baptist Church will be hosting together at the latter’s location, the Waianae Baptist Church, 85-131 Ala Hema Street, Waianae, 696-4374, on Sunday, August 26, 10:30 AM & 7 PM, through Friday, August 31, at 7 PM each evening.

FREE DINNER will be served each evening between 6-6:30 PM.

We are excited about Dr. Wesley Paul coming to the Leeward/Waianae Coast to help us change one heart at a time for the LORD Jesus Christ.  You can find more information and what others are saying about his unique, international ministries at:  http://wesleypaul.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=69&Itemid=85

Everyone is invited!  Come as you are!  Come and see!

In His Service,

Bryan Wittekind, Pastor

Waianae Baptist Church

85-131 Ala Hema Street

Waianae, HI, 96792

808-696-4374

US VETS Pai`olu Kaiaulu Open House September 15 + invitation to service providers

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