Robin Bonaccorsi
Down to Earth – Makanalani
Makanalani Kids, a non-profit originating in Hawaii, dedicates itself to facilitating cost-free camps to children, especially focusing on those who might otherwise be financially excluded from such opportunities. The organizational ethos is seemingly rooted in offering potentially transformative experiences within a calm and picturesque setting, with a mission outlined as providing these camps, framed by an uplifting environmental backdrop, without financial obligation to youth.
A large portion of the experience occurs on Makanalani Farm on Kauai, which encompasses 130 acres with an additional leased parcel of a hundred acres, crafted to present the attendees with lasting memories, particularly underprivileged children. The farm is more than a venue for exploring nature and interacting with animals; it emerges as a platform aimed at transformation, engaging youth in activities ranging from fruit-picking to exploring nature. The farm is inhabited by various animals, notably Katahdin sheep and dairy cows, and employs sustainable practices.
In the words of a representative from the farm in the video segment hosted by Lyndsey Haraguchi-Nakayama, “Our whole purpose for building was to bring kids on the property and to give them an opportunity to experience 130 acres with animals and being able to pick through, being able to just walk around nature, and also to just have a time out, time to be with friends, time to be with counselors.” Not only does the farm curate experiences with nature, but it also introduces children to a variety of animals. Katahdin sheep, described as being bred to be “Hardy for this kind of climate,” and “hair sheep” with “very mild meat,” coexist with around 20 dairy cows which “need to be milked every single day.”
The existence of mini donkeys on the farm is highlighted, described as a “highlight for the kids” due to being “less intimidating than the larger animals” and possessing an amicable and friendly demeanor. The animal encounters seem to be structured to both enlighten and entertain, providing an informal yet educational overview of farm life and animal care.
Beyond the enchanting surroundings and activities, the underpinnings of Makanalani Kids pivot on what are identified as four crucial pillars: collaboration, formative experiences, place, and familiarity, intending to create a “home” in Makanalani for every attendee. The non-profit is operated on the principle that 100% of donations are channeled directly into maintaining the camp and addressing its operational costs.
Further revealing the pragmatics behind sustaining such a venture, the representative shares, “You cannot really do what we’re doing with just farming. We bring the kids here; they essentially get a free holiday. So we have to support that somehow. We’ve started some small businesses specifically to contribute to the kids’ program here in Makanalani.” This includes varied enterprises such as Jojo shave ice, a motorcycle rental business, and Makanalani Herbal Teas, from which proceeds are directed to finance the children’s programs.
Even with these endeavors to support the non-profit financially, there emanates a commitment to its foundational tenets, perhaps best summarized in the statement: “God has been good to us, and that’s what we like to give forward. We like to bless others and hope that they will continue.” While the future is inherently uncertain, the intention appears clear: to ensure that Makanalani Kids continues to facilitate transformative experiences for youth, indelibly connecting them with the land, the animals, and potentially, a different perspective on life.
Secret Shopper – Havaiki
Havaiki Oceanic and Tribal Art, situated in the picturesque town of Hanalei on Kaua’i, is more than just an art gallery. Specializing in art from the vast Oceania region, which includes around 20,000 Pacific islands and nearly 1,800 cultures and languages, the gallery offers a unique blend of history, culture, and craftsmanship.
The gallery’s collection, which spans art from Hawaii to Indonesia, is deeply rooted in the traditions and spiritual beliefs of the Oceania region. The art pieces are not merely decorative but often serve religious, ceremonial, or practical purposes.
The gallery’s origins are as intriguing as its collection. The owners, who lived on two sailboats, embarked on voyages across the Oceania region, collecting artwork from remote islands. “We lived on two sailboats; we’re permanently on the first boat for five and a half years,” one of the owners shared. The gallery’s collection includes bowls from Polynesia, Melanesia, and Micronesia. Some of these bowls were finished on the day of a child’s birth, symbolizing that the child would never go hungry.
The craftsmanship behind the pieces is evident. Many of the items, such as the handcrafted bowls, are made using traditional tools like chisels and hammers. “They’re basically using chisels and hammers to create most of these pieces,” the owner explained.
The gallery also houses contemporary replicas of traditional designs, some of which use specialized materials like Mastodon because traditional materials like whale bone are becoming scarce. One of the standout pieces is a chunk of rosemary with intricate inlay work. “Each piece is individually called. Something like this might have 300 or 500 individual pieces of inlay, and each one is hand-tacked,” the owner described.
The gallery’s collection isn’t limited to decorative pieces. It also includes traditional weapons and tools, such as the ‘M’ from the Marquesas, known as a neckbreaker, and octopus lures made with tiger cowrie shells.
The gallery’s commitment to authenticity and tradition is evident in every piece. “When you get a real close-up and you look at these pieces, you can see it’s not stamped out; it’s not machined,” the owner emphasized.
In conclusion, Havaiki Oceanic and Tribal Art offers visitors a glimpse into the rich and diverse art and culture of the Oceania region. With its vast collection, knowledgeable staff, and commitment to authenticity, the gallery stands as a testament to the beauty and depth of Oceanic art.
Havaiki
Secret Shopper – Hanalei Boutique
In the heart of Kaua’i, nestled in the Hanalei Center, lies the Hanalei Boutique, a shop that offers a diverse range of products from beachwear to jewelry. Eden Hazelip, the host of the video series “Secret Shopper,” recently took viewers on a tour of this establishment.
Upon entering the boutique, visitors are greeted with a warm welcome. The store boasts a vast collection of beachwear, including dresses, halter tops, surf shorts, and more. One of the standout items is a sarong, which can be styled in various ways, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
Beyond clothing, the boutique offers an array of accessories. Beach blankets, which the host admits to being fond of, are prominently displayed. The store also carries natural soaps, adding to its diverse product range.
Jewelry is another highlight of Hanalei Boutique. The collection includes bracelets and earrings, with a notable mention of black pearls. The boutique hosts trunk shows monthly, showcasing different jewelry pieces.
The dresses at Hanalei Boutique cater to various occasions. From gala nights to casual brunches, the selection is vast. Some dresses, described as bohemian, are hand-crocheted, emphasizing the attention to detail and craftsmanship.
The Hanalei Boutique is open from Monday to Saturday, from 10 am to 2:45 pm. Located a short distance from Bar Acuda in the Hanalei Center, the store is known for its quality products, extensive selection, reasonable prices, and friendly staff.
In conclusion, the Hanalei Boutique offers a unique shopping experience for those visiting Kaua’i, with a wide range of products that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Hanalei Boutique