Here is a photo that conjures up many good memories. In the photo with me is Loea Kawaikapuokalani Hewett. 2003 was the year this photo was taken (11 years ago). I had already been studying hula with Hewett for 6 years and the total number years dancing hula was 22 years. When I recall that time of my life, I still felt I knew little about hula and that my future possibilities to learn more were bright and promising thanks greatly to Loea Hewett. During that time Kumu Kamalani Kia of Kailua helped to organize Hewett’s Papa Kumu class. We met every week until we graduated in 2008. During that time, we had annual Hoike concerts which we looked forward to preparing, planning and learning new hula for the concert. During that time I was learning Hawaiian healing traditions unique to Hewett’s Ohana. During that time, I met an amazing lady that reflected strong character, strong will and strong vision. Her name is Kawahine Kamakea-Ohelo. During that time, and from my work with Waimanalo Health Center, my interest in helping Hawaiians began to grow so I enrolled at UH School of Social Work. That time was truly special time for my personal growth and development. But I would be remised if I didn’t acknowledge my first three Kumu hula (Chinky Mahoe, Al Makahinu Barcarse, and John Keola Lake).
These three kumu hula taught with an abundance of love. They all reflected kindness and integrity. They always lead by example. And they were all well educated men. Having them in my life has helped me to be an astute learner which prepared me to carefully learn from Hewett. Back then the motto for our work was Ku I Ka Mana. Mahalo all from good mana (food). Our program touched many peoples lives. Not only within the community of Waimanalo but many many people came in to see our work.