Na Kalai Wa'a Moku o Hawai'i
Makali'i Educational Voyaging Program
During the entire month of September, join KTA Super Stores and Waikoloa Village Market as we work to raise resources for Na Kalai Wa'a Moku o Hawai'i's, "Makali'i Educational Voyaging Program!"Help show your support of this non-profit, youth development program, by purchasing and autographing your very own Makali'i placard. All placards will be prominently displayed at one of our five KTA Super Stores or Waikoloa Village Market.
Na Kalai Wa'a Moku o Hawai'i is a non-profit organization conducting youth educational programs utilizing Hawaiian voyaging and non-instrument navigation as its foundation. The focal point and primary classroom for these programs is the double-hulled canoe "Makali'i."
During 1994 and 1995, Waimea brothers Clay and Milton "Shorty" Bertelmann, with assistance from community and cultural organizations, led the efforts to construct Hawai'i Island's first voyaging canoe in centuries. "Makali'i" is the Hawaiian name for the celestial constellation known as Pleiades. Since it's maiden voyage in 1995 to Tahiti, Marquesas and Tuamotu, Makali'i has sailed extensively throughout the Hawaiian Islands, and in recent years completed a voyage to the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Guam and Saipan.
The educational programs conducted by Na Kalai Wa'a Moku o Hawai'i are based upon traditional knowledge and cultural practices in conjunction with modern science and technology. Activities include oral histories, the practice of cultural values, learning traditional chants and dances, the study of canoe technology past and present, and the study of non-instrument navigation. Studies include those of traditional star names and constellations, weather forecasting, ocean forms and wildlife, seamanship including knots and rigging, and survival training and safety procedures aboard the canoe. All elements of traditional study are supported by the use of modern instrumentation and computers with internet access.
In short, Na Kalai Wa'a Moku o Hawai'i strives to perpetuate, protect and preserve Hawaiian culture and traditions, through the education of present day generations.Help us support this important community building program, by purchasing and proudly displaying a Makali'i placard today!
