Volume 42, No. 1 September 2013

Ka ‘Ohana now on facebook

K a O h a n a O n l i n e . o r g

Th e W i n d w a r d Ho‘olaule‘a, called “A Homegrown Celebra-

tion,” will take place on WCC’s Great Lawn Saturday, Sept. 28, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The event will feature is-land entertainment, activities and keiki rides, ‘ono food, unique arts and crafts, a col-lege-sponsored silent auction and much more.

“The Ho‘olaule‘a has be-come one of the biggest com-munity events on the Wind-ward side, with something for the whole family,” said event chair and long-time Kaneohe Business Group member Eddy Kemp. The celebration is in its 13th year, co-sponsored by the college and KBG.

When asked, “What makes this year’s Ho‘olaule‘a special?” WCC marketing director Bon-nie Beatson explained, “They are all special because they happen on our campus in our community. No fighting traffic, free admission, great entertain-ment, food and fun.”

This year’s food choices will include garlic shrimp, Hawaiian food, crepes, shave ice, guava chicken, steak and roasted corn, pizza and more.

Brother Noland & Band, Kapena, Hi‘ikua and Chinky

Mahoe’s Halau Hula ‘O Kawaili‘ula, overall winner of this year’s Merrie Monarch Fes-tival, will be among the groups performing.

From 1 to 5 p.m., visitors can tour WCC s̒ new, three-story “green” Library Learn-ing Commons, winner of this year’s American Institute of Architects design award. The Hub coffee shop will also be open for a frappe or a cup of coffee.

Gallery ‘Iolani will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to view “Crossing Cultures: The Art of Manga in Hawai‘i.”

Other WCC attractions will include Hawaiian Stud-ies cultural demonstrations, free blood pressure readings, student ceramic sales, gyotaku fish printing, face painting, jewelry making, an orchid sale, drama activities and more.

Walgreens will offer flu shots (Walgreens asks that you bring your insurance card) and the Five Rs 96744 project will help to promote positive character.

The event is expected to draw more than 15, 000 people islandwide. The proceeds will fund scholarships for WCC students and other program support.

For details, visit wind-ward.hawaii.edu/hoolaulea or contact Beatson at 235-7374.

Windward Ho‘olaule‘a Sept. 28b y A r i a n A r a g a k i

Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter

New A.S. in Natural Scienceb y A J M o n t g o m e r yKa ‘Ohana Staff Reporter

Peter tully Owen

For students seeking a fu-ture in STEM (science,

technology, engineering, and mathematics)-related careers, WCC will be offering a new Associate Degree in Natural Science.

The program is meant to mirror that of the Associate in Arts now offered but uniquely designed for students inter-ested in the natural sciences.

Warren Mamizuka, an undergraduate at UH-Mānoa’s College of Engineering and a former WCC student said, “It sets a solid guideline for those seeking STEM degrees.”

The associate in science degree will have two differ-ent concentrations: biological

science and physical science. The separate science tracks

will have a multitude of cours-es making up approximately half of the necessary credits in addition to the foundation requirements needed for an associate degree.

The new degree also high-lights some of WCC’s more advanced science courses to include Physics 272, CHEM 273, and BIO 275.

“It saves me a lot of time not having to travel to oth-er campuses,” said Jermiah Ka‘ahanui-Frankovic, an aspir-ing computer engineer here at WCC.

Leticia Colmenares, chem-istry professor and natural sciences department chair said, “We want students to be pre-pared for successful transfer.”

The new A.S. in Natural Science provides the ground-work for transferring to upper-division UH science programs for an array of STEM-related careers ranging from volca-nologists to farm managers.

STEM careers focus on the latest technology and scientific processes with high annual average salaries. For example, an electrical engineer’s salary ranges from $77,560 to $87,180.

“This way, students can make the most of their time and money,” added Colmena-res.

For more information on the new A.S. degree go to http://windward.hawaii.edu/academics/Associate_Sci-ence_Natural_Science/ or contact Colmenares at leticia@hawaii.edu

WCC student Carmen Jimenez examines a slide in one of the labs on campus. The college has added a new Associate in Science Degree in Natural Science to give students a strong foundation for transfer to upper-division UH degree programs and STEM-related careers.

(Clockwise from top left): Headliner Brother Noland. Crowds flock to shave ice vendor. Members of Hi’ikua (from left) Blake Leoiki-Haili, Kalehua Krug, and Kamuela Kimokeo, who is a slack key and ‘ukulele teacher at WCC.

COurtesy Hi‘ikua

Peter tully Owen

COurtesy brOtHer nOland

S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 3

W I N D W A R D C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E

2 NEWS of the DAYKa ‘Ohana

Ka ‘OhanaEDITOR IN CHIEF

Kelly MontgomerySTAFF REPORTERS

Anyah AlbertArian-Nicole Aragaki

John BascukJessica CrawfordAdriana GradillasYvonne Hopkins

(The Family)

Austen Taylor MatroAJ MontgomeryPHOTOgRAPHER

Jessica CrawfordWEbmASTER

Patrick HascallADvISOR

Libby Young

Ka ‘Ohana is published monthly by the students of Windward Community College. 45-720 Kea‘ahala Rd, Kāne‘ohe, Hawai‘i 96744. Phone (808) 236-9187 or 236-9185. The newspaper reflects only the views of its

student staff. visit Ka ‘Ohana’s website at www.KaOhanaOnline.org.

The eyes of the world are on a small Middle Eastern country known as Syria.

Due to recent accusations of a chemical attack on civilians, the ques-tion remains, what should the U.S. response be?

President Barack Obama has felt continued pressure on the subject; however, questions remain whether military force will still be used.

Congress had been debating a plan of action ranging from missile strikes to diplomatic negotiations, but opinion is heavily divided — among elected officials as well as the Ameri-can people.

Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov are currently working out the details of a Russian plan to put Syria’s chemical arsenal under international control.

The plan calls for Syria s̒ arsenal of chemical weapons to be removed or destroyed by the middle of 2014.

If Syrian President Bashar al-Assad s̒ government fails to comply, the U.S. and Russia would introduce a U.N. Security Council resolution

that would include sanctions short of military action, according to a New York Times report.

The Syrian conflict has claimed more than 100,000 lives over the past two years, but the current crisis has more people asking what is really happening in Syria?

The Assad regime and the Free Syrian Army are the two opposing factions with interests that do not include each other.

The rebel forces fighting the Assad regime have denounced the recent agreement, accusing Russia of being a partner in killing the Syrian people.

The dictatorship of the Shi‘ite-based Assad family has been in pow-er since 1970. However, the country is roughly three-quarters Sunni, and in March 2011, Assad’s rule was openly challenged by various rebel factions.

According to a recent Time maga-zine article, one reason the stakes in Syria are so high is “it has become a proxy war. . . between Iran and its Sunni rivals like Saudi Arabia.”

The potential powder keg that is the Mideast involves major U.S. allies such as Israel and Assad’s allies in Iran and Lebanon.

Countries such as Israel and Sau-di Arabia are urging Western aid and

military assistance, while others like Iran promise to support any Syrian elected ruler. Chemical weapons use aside, many still question whether the U.S. should become involved in another country’s civil war.

“The U.S. needs to intensify world pressure, especially amongst the Arab League,” said WCC political science teacher Roy Fujimoto.

A recent pol l of Americans

showed that 62 percent were opposed to U.S. intervention, while others said it was a moral imperative for to send a message about chemical warfare.

The problem remains, can the U.S. send such a message without triggering even greater chaos and the unintended consequences of war.

As Fujimoto stated, “It’s time to re-evaluate the U.S.’s foreign policy in the Middle East.“

Whatever action the U.S. takes in Syria, there are more questions than answers in this latest Mideast crisis. The events unfolding in Syria will

have a worldwide impact but can also be complex and confusing.Here are some answers to the most basic questions.

Where is Syria? Located in the Middle East, Syria is approximately the size of the state

of Washington with neighbors that include Iraq, Lebanon, Israel, Turkey and Jordan. Why are the Syrian people fighting?

In April 2011, Syria took part in the multi-nation uprisings known as the Arab Spring where anti-government protestors challenged the ruling regime. Who is fighting?

The Syrian Arab Republic, led by president Bashar al-Assad, is battling the Free Syrian Army that has no declared leader and consists of many for-eign fighters. What is the U.N. doing about this?

The U.N. secretary general Ban Ki-Moon sent investigative teams to dis-cover the truth behind alleged chemical weapon attacks. Should the U.S. step in?

President Barack Obama agreed to let Congress make the decision on any military action with a primary focus on the U.S. national interests in Syria. Will a missile strike stop the war?

A missile strike will not stop the war in Syria, but instead serve as punish-ment to the Assad regime for the suspected use of chemical weapons.

—AJ Montgomery

b y A J M o n t g o m e r yKa ‘Ohana Staff Reporter

Syria is located in the heart of the Middle East, a known hotspot of conflict for decades.

How should the U.S. respondto chemical attacks in Syria?

Even though what the Syrians did was unethical, America should NOT dip its toes in this business. The attack was not on us and the U.S. should not strong-arm any country that commits a war crime.

To think we have business in any wrongdoing in the international order of things only caricatures the egotism the rest of the world believes we have.

We should not participate in another “Iraq” in our economic situa-tion—we just got out of a war.

America with wars is like that girl in high school who has zero lag-time between relationships, when all she really needs is to focus on herself for a while. Let’s not be that girl.

—Kanoa Morse

I feel that we should wait for the U.N. to gather all information before we do anything. The president should go to Congress to find a solution. If we do act, it should be through the U.N. Security Coalition.

I honestly think it was the Syrian rebels who used the chemical weap-ons, saying it was the Assad regime so the U.S. would get involved and take out the regime. Also, I feel that Al-Qaeda is helping the rebels. We shouldn’t help them; they are our sworn enemies.

President Obama is making a big mistake by jumping the gun and pointing fingers before all the facts are there. If we do go to war, it will be very unpopular with our troops

because they feel they are taking on world policing duties when they feel they should be protecting America. They also feel that they will be helping Al-Qaeda’s cause.

I know this because I am ex-mili-tary and all of my friends who are in feel this way. Not one of them wants to go into Syria. They feel it is Syria’s problem; let [Syria] sort it out.

—Stephen Caldonetti

I think the U.S. should try to inter-vene and help the people in Syria. A lot of innocent people got hurt in this tragedy and they need someone to defend them and bring justice.

—Breanna Davis

I think that if the U.S. has enough support, they should strike. The U.S. should send a message to Syria and other countries that it is not okay to do this type of thing.

If the U.S. can effectively strike Syria, it would send a message to them and other nations that chemical attacks are not right.

—Lōkahi Hoopii

I think the U.S. should not get involved in this matter. I believe it is going to cost a lot of money to send troops into or to wage war on Syria.

I think we have enough problems of our own that we should take care of before trying to fix someone else’s and dealing out billions of dollars to do so.

—Makana Pate

Facts you should know

SEE SYriA oN PAGE 11

Syrian crisis fuels Mideast tension

S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 3

W I N D W A R D C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E

CAMPUS NEWS 3Ka ‘Ohana

b y Y v o n n e H o p k i n s Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter

When it involves smok-ing on campus, can’t

we all just get along? “Let ’s be clear,” said

Rick Murray, manager of WCC’s Office of Safety and Security. “We (WCC) have implemented a designated smoking areas policy, NOT a ban on smok-ing.”

The spec i f-ics of this policy we r e e m a i le d to all WCC stu-dents, facult y, and staff on Aug. 7, “Designated Smoking Areas at WCC.”

It stated the reasons be-hind implementing the new policy as “…an attempt to protect non-smokers from the negative effects of sec-ondhand smoke and to sup-port smokers who wish to stop smoking or reduce their tobacco intake.”

The email also provided information and links to other resources regarding WCC Tobacco Policy, Sec-ondhand Smoke (SHS), and e-cigarettes.

Murray said he believes the establ ishment of the designated smoking areas at WCC would serve “to make it

easier for everyone, smokers and non-smokers.”

He explained how prob-lematic it continues to be for everyone to remember all the areas smokers must stay clear of (such as doorways, windows, and ventilation intakes) and the difficulty in assessing exactly how far 25 feet is from those areas.

As a state facility, WCC m u s t c o m -ply with the “Smoke Free Hawai’i” law, wh ic h went into effect on Nov. 16, 2006. The state’s De-par t ment of

Health website said the law provides “…fair and consis-tent statewide protection for the health of people who do not want to be subjected to secondhand smoke.”

While the WCC smoking policy also restricts the use of e-cigarettes in all campus buildings and within 25 feet of all its buildings, e-ciga-rette users are not mandated to use the newly instituted designated smoking areas. As long as e-cigarette users are 25 feet away from any building, they can use their product anywhere else on campus.

Murray conceded, “There

b y A n y a h A l b e r t Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter

Final touches are under way as WCC awaits word that it can move

into two new extensions to Hale A‘o near the entrance to the college.

Four new classrooms and a kitchen have been added to the building.

“We built it primarily to house the Hawaiian Stud-ies classes,” said Kalawaia Moore, program coordinator.

One classroom can also be used for music classes in slack key guitar, ‘ukulele and chorus.

The campus held a “soft blessing” for the buildings on Aug. 19 with outgoing UH President M.R.C. Green-wood and other officials in attendance.

The project was funded by a $4 million federal Title III grant and an additional grant for the new kitchen.

WCC students can now earn an associate’s degree in Hawaiian Studies and trans-

fer to a bachelor’s degree major at UH Mānoa, UH Hilo and UH West-Oahu, accord-ing to the WCC website.

“Sixty people are signed up for the (WCC) Hawaiian Studies degree,” Moore said.

More than 50 years old, Hale A‘o was once the su-pervisor’s residence for the

Hawaiian studies expands at Hale A‘o

Hawaii State Hospital, which makes it a historic preserva-tion site.

Students will be permit-ted into the historic residence to meet for classes, with oth-ers scheduled for the new extensions.

WCC Hawaiian language teacher Kalani Meinecke

gave Hale A‘o its name, which means “house of learning.” The names for the extensions are also pending approval by the UH system and Board of Regents.

Moore envisions soon af-ter Hale A‘o’s new additions

is no one thing that will sat-isfy the whole community.” He simply believes we must be sensitive to the needs of all parties. This includes those who suffer from vari-ous conditions such as aller-gies and asthma, those who are trying to stop smoking, as well as those who simply enjoy smoking.

Preferences and health issues aside, Murray said, “Everyone has the right to breathe clean air.”

Designated smoking areas — 25 feet from where?

are officially turned over to WCC that he and other fac-ulty will hold another event much larger and livelier for students and community.

For more information, contact Moore at peterm@hawaii.edu or 235-7388.

(Right) Designated area signs. (Below) The map pinpoints the designated smoking areas.

BoNNiE BEAtSoN

L-R: WCC Hawaiian Studies coordinator Peter Kalawai’a Moore, WCC Hawaiian language instructor Evaline “Tuti” Sanborn, former UH President M.R.C. Greenwood, WCC Chancellor Doug Dykstra and WCC Hawaiian Studies professor Liko Hoe.

LiBBy yoUNg

(From left) Alan Hinahara and Neri Blas from Hawaiian Dredging and WCC music instructor Ka’ala Carmack in one of the new classrooms.

“(It will) make it easier for everyone...”

-Rick Murray

PAtriCk HASCALL

yvoNNE HoPkiNS

S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 3

W I N D W A R D C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E

4 CAMPUS NEWSKa ‘Ohana

We are the voice of the people!” was ASUH-WCC President Kayleen Sur’s passionate

answer when asked about the role of WCC’s student government.

She, along with the other members of the Associated Students of the Uni-versity of Hawaii-WCC, want to get the word out that they exist to bring awareness of, and fight for, student issues on campus.

Sur has served as president/trea-surer for the past year. Some of the issues she and the other senators noted include the need for more food choices on campus, the high cost of books, discounted bus pass rates for students, and discounted tickets to UH sports events for all UH system students, not just for those attending UH-Mānoa.

“If you have a concern,” says Tom Doi, student activities coordinator, “put your name on it and bring it to us. We will address it for you and have a forum to promote student participa-

What would you say to a chance at winning one of two new iPads?

Come out to the Associated Stu-dents of the University of Hawaii-WCC annual “Welcome Back” event Sept. 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hale Pālanakila to find out how you can enter to win.

ASUH-WCC will be providing food to all students who present their student ID.

Representatives from various WCC student clubs, along with trans-fer information specialists from UH Mānoa, UH Hilo, Hawaii Pacific Uni-versity, UH West O‘ahu, and Chami-nade University, will be on hand to provide information to help guide you on your educational journey.

And that’s not all. ASUH-WCC will also sponsor an “ASUH Intramu-ral Punt-Kick-Pass” competition.

Prizes will be awarded for both

tion.”Doi added, “We (ASUH-WCC) will

no longer be hosting the ʻMid-Month Munchies.“ Instead, we want to encour-age and support WCC‘s student clubs to hold activities for students and the community.”

Their next scheduled event, “Wel-come Back,” is set for Sept. 26, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hale Pālanakila. KCCN will be broadcasting live during the event. Food is also on the agenda; however, you must present your WCC student ID to be served.

The ASUH-WCC extends a friendly invitation for all to stop by their table at the event. There you can get more information and maybe get involved yourself, as they are looking for more student senators.

Doi explained, “The faculty has a senate that serves as their voice. The student senate is the voice of the stu-dents.”

Sur also wants you to “friend” them on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/asuh.wcc, to keep up with what’s happening.

“Super Male” and “Super Female” athletes.

The drawing for two iPad 2ʻs (16GB) is for students throughout the UH community college system and part of a pledge drive called, “Go For-ward! Agree to Degree.”

Bonnie Beatson, WCC s̒ marketing director, has invited KCCN to kick it off with a live broadcast from the campus.

The initiative is intended to raise the student graduation rates within UH community colleges and to en-courage completion of a degree. Stu-dents will be asked to sign a pledge to work towards graduating.

By doing so, Beatson said each student will receive a “mood” brace-let that changes color when worn, to remind the student to “follow your passion” and finish college strong with a degree.

Beatson hopes students attending this event will make the pledge and take advantage of all the “services they need to get it (their degrees)!”

ASUH-WCC: Step up, get involvedb y Y v o n n e H o p k i n sKa ‘Ohana Staff Reporter

ASUH-WCC President Kayleen Sur, speaking at the opening of Hale La’akea last fall.JESSiCA CrAWford

Welcome back – Let’s move forward together!b y Y v o n n e H o p k i n sKa ‘Ohana Staff Reporter

CoUrtESy HAWAii CoMMUNity CollEgE

WCC students taking it to the next level and making the pledge to “Agree to Degree.”

UH CoMMUNity CollEgES

“

S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 3

W I N D W A R D C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E

CAMPUS NEWS 5Ka ‘Ohana

Get involved! Make new friends and share your personal interests

by joining a campus club. Whether you want to get in touch with native Hawaiian roots, play sports or express artistic talents, the variety of options is sure to have something you’ll love.

Film Club-advisor Robert BarclayOpen to all students, faculty, staff

and community members. No regular meeting time, but members coordi-nate with each other as they work on pre-production, production and post-production of various film projects.

Members have the opportunity to participate in all aspects of filmmak-ing including scriptwriting, story-boarding, set design, camera, lighting, sound, editing and more.

Visit http://www.windward.ha-waii.edu/Student_Life/Film/ for more information.

KuPono Hawaiian Club-advisor Winston Kong

A club that promotes Hawaiian values for native Hawaiians and Ha-waiians at heart. Meetings TBA. To participate in upcoming events, con-tact Winston Kong at 235-7458.

•Windward Ho‘olaule‘a on Sept. 28 •Extinguish Domestic Violence:

“The Prison Monologues” in October •9th Annual KuPono Intercolle-

giate Thanksgiving Volleyball Tour-nament at Kane‘ohe District Park in November

•17th Annual Thanksgiving Stew-ardship Imu on Nov. 27

•Kane‘ohe Christmas Parade

The WCC Poets’ Society, an ASUH student club, kicked off the beginning

of its monthly open poetry slams on Aug. 30.

The events, which will be held on the last Friday of each month in the ‘Akoakoa atrium, are free and open to everyone. There are no rules other than being respectful of partici-pants as they share their work. Besides poetry, songwriting, stories and “live” art are also encouraged and welcomed.

The Poets’ Society created the open mic to give an oppor-tunity for people to share their creative work, while bringing together students, staff and faculty, as well as community members.

“We have people of all shapes and sizes,” says mem-ber Ashley Shankles, “I see people from every different category come together at one point, at one time. It’s so cool

Open mic night with the Poets’ Society

to see that everyone is there—simply for the sake of poetry.”

The open mic was spear-

headed by Shankles, who hosted the first event and per-formed with six other students

including, Brandon Vegas, Noa Helelā, Travis Kaululaau Thompson, Keo Curry, Desiree

Naluai and Kainoa Makua.English professor Janine

Oshiro says she hopes the club will give students an opportu-nity to express their feelings about complicated topics and give students a space without judgment to express them-selves.

“I would like to see stu-dents take more risks, develop their ideas and share those ideas with others,” Oshiro says. “I hope it will spark more dialog and open conversations among students.”

The Poets’ Society also holds free writing workshops with Youth Speaks Hawaii. The workshops are open to ev-eryone and held every Thurs-day in Palanakila 213 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. The workshops provide students with creative and fun ways to develop their writing and ideas.

On Mondays, the club holds meetings at the Student Activity Center.

For info, call 808-688-8805 or email shankles@hawaii.edu.

Phi Theta Kappa-advisor Lance UyedaPhi Theta Kappa is the interna-

tional scholastic honor society for community college students, which cultivates scholarship, leadership, fellowship and service. Students who have a 3.5 or higher grade point aver-age and have earned 12 credits at WCC are eligible for membership in Alpha Lambda Theta, Windward CC’s chap-ter of Phi Theta Kappa.

Phi Theta Kappa offers members:•Leadership development •Scholarships and grants •Opportunities for travel, study,

and personal fellowship with peers both nationwide and internationally.

Debate Club-advisor Audrey MendozaMeets every first, third and fourth

Fridays of the month from 2-4 p.m. currently in TRiO at Hale Na‘auao. Students are expected to brush up on current events as well as a bit of his-tory pertaining not only to the U.S. but internationally as well.

That means, students must be able to commit to the club by coming to the meetings and participating in events. Debate helps in public speaking, argumentation, persuasion, critical thinking, creativity, using resources, etc. Debate opens your mind to con-sider different perspectives. Best of all, it’s fun!

Debate tactics workshop- Sept. 26, 6:30-8:30 p.m. in Hale ‘Ākoakoa.

Safe Spaces-advisor Sarah HodellThe Windward CC LGBTI organi-

zation serves as a campus and com-munity support system for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex individuals, and their allies. Provides

support, education, normalization, and collaboration.

In addition, they strive to create and maintain a safe and inclusive environment for Windward LGTBI

students, faculty, staff, and their al-lies. They offer Safe Zone training, films, events, student club and support meetings.

It’s called “Appetite 4 Evolution” for a reason. This semester’s issue of Rain

Bird is calling all writers and artists to share their take on everything food.

However, this is the first time Rain Bird is taking a more political view on the topic.

“We’re looking for the activist and socially conscious types to cover every-thing from genetically modified organ-isms (GMO’s) to eating disorders such as anorexia,” said English professor and Rain Bird advisor Robert Barclay.

The Rain Bird staff is asking for sto-

ries, poems, sculptures or any work of art that shares the artist’s passion for food.

Time is limited though as the deadline for submissions is Oct. 7. En-try boxes can be found in the Library Learning Commons, the bookstore and outside the Rain Bird studio in Hale ‘Ākoakoa 236.

Also, it s̒ not too late to join the Rain Bird staff. They r̒e still recruiting members for this semester. For ques-tions and details, contact a Rain Bird staff member at rainbird@hawaii.edu.

Rain Bird serves up new theme

b y K e l l y M o n t g o m e r yKa ‘Ohana Editor in Chief

b y J e s s i c a C r a w f o r dKa ‘Ohana Staff Reporter

Clubs offer a fun way to participate on campus

See CLUBS PAge 11

JESSiCA CrAWfOrd

The WCC Poets’ Society held its first open mic on Aug. 30. Participants included, (clockwise from left): Kainoa Makua, Noa Helela, Keo Curry, Travis Kaululaau Thompson, Janine Oshiro, Desiree Naluai, Ashley Shankles and Brandon Vegas.

JESSiCA CrAWfOrd

erin Horn, Robert Barclay (advisor), Ashley Shankles, Megan Heller, Anyah Albert (assistant).

Peter tully Owen

bOnnie beatsOn

bOnnie beatsOn

COurtesy Of jamie bOyd

marC sCheChter

This 17-credit certificate is for students wishing to engage in small-scale farming in Hawaii. The program inte-grates environmental stability with economic profitability.

Sustainable Agriculture

This curriculum is designed to provide students with skills and knowledge to seek entry-level employment in the field of plant landscaping.

Agricultural Technology: Plant Landscaping and/or Agricultural Technology

The Marine Option Program is designed for students interested in marine and freshwater systems. The certificate is issued through UH Mānoa to students who complete at least 10 credits of marine-related courses.

Marine Option Program

This course provides students with entry-level job skills into GIS/GPS. The certificate is issued after successful completion of two GIS/GPS courses.

Geographic Information System and Glob-al Positioning System (GIS/GPS)

This certificate is for the novice or professional information worker with little or no skills in web sup-port. It is a competency-based program with 9-credits of web-related courses.

Information Computer Science: Web Support

ABIT is a competency-based, 9-credit program de-signed for the novice or professional information worker. It also helps upgrade the skills of industry members or administrative professionals.

Information Computer Science: Applied Business and Information Technology

This 9-credit certificate is designed for students who wish to expand their skills and knowledge in agricultural biotech and related fields including, horticulture, floriculture and tissue culture. Students must enroll/pass three out of four courses: Plant Propagation, Orchid Culture, Ethnobotany, Food Science and Human Nutrition.

Plant Food Production and Technology

Certificate of Competence

At WCC we say, “From here, you can go anywhere.” But how do you find that cool career or field you love? The good news is Windward has an expanded array of degrees and certificates to help you in your quest. Whether it’s a single course or a whole program, here’s a summary of the range of choices on campus.

This certificate is organized in two tracks: Plant Bio-technology and Ethnopharmacognosy, with each track consisting of 30-32 credits with a unique capstone class. The plant biotechnology track deals with improving plant production, plant-derived pharmaceuticals. Ethnopharma-cognosy is the study of traditional medicines derived from natural sources.

This certificate is a 12-14-credit educational program that provides skills and knowledge in the field of tree care. Students will get hands-on experience that will prepare them for the International Society of Arboriculture certificate exam.

Agripharmatech

Agricultural Technology: Subtropical Urban Tree Care

Certificate of Completion

Traditional classroom instruction with hands-on laboratory experience. Students will receive training in pharmacology, radiology, anesthesiology, surgical assisting, dentistry nutrition and veterinary office procedures and skills. Students will also intern at local shelters where they can hone and practice their skills, with the internships possibly opening the door to future employment.

This certificate provides pre-professional training for students planning careers in visual arts in the areas of drawing and painting. It meets the goals of students who plan to transfer to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, become a professional artist, and/or enter a career in commercial art. Prior to degree completion, students must prepare a portfolio and pass a committee review by faculty members in drawing and painting.

This certificate prepares students for careers in biotechnology and qualifies them to transfer to Bachelor of Science degree programs.

Associate in Science in Veterinary Technology

Art: Drawing and Painting

Bio-Resources and Technology: Plant Biotechnology

A transfer degree for students pursuing STEM-related (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers. Courses prepare students to transfer into science programs at UH Mānoa, UH Hilo and UH West O‘ahu.

The degree has two different concentrations: biological science and physical science. Students in the program can prepare for a wide range of careers — from volcanologists to farm managers.

The courses also highlight some of WCC’s more advanced science courses.

Associate in Science in Natural Science

Academic Subject Certificate

Associate Degree

The Associate in Arts (AA) degree is a two-year direct transfer liberal arts degree consisting of at least 60 semester credits at the 100 and 200 levels.

To earn an Associate in Arts degree, Windward Community College students must complete 60 credits in courses numbered 100 or above with a grade point average of at least 2.0. Students who are awarded an Associate in Arts degree from a UH Community College must have a community college cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher for all coursework taken in fulfillment of AA degree requirements.

Associate in Arts in Hawaiian Studies

Associate in Arts DegreeThe Associate in Arts in Hawaiian Studies is

a 60-credit degree that is a foundational degree in Hawaiian knowledge and culture. The AA degree is patterned after WCC’s current liberal arts AA degree, and is an option for students seeking an associate degree and subsequent entry into most baccalaureate programs at UH Mānoa, UH Hilo and UH West O‘ahu.

The degree is also a pathway for entrance into either UH Mānoa or UH Hilo Hawaiian Studies Programs. The AAHS also provides students with qualifications that will be useful in the workforce where understanding of the host culture or application of Hawaiian knowledge is desired.

This program is a 26-credit certificate that prepares stu-dents for careers in education, the visitor industry, or fields that require knowledge of Hawaiian culture and affairs.

A program designed to provide students with basic knowledge and skills required to perform duties a veterinary assistant. The program includes 31-credits of coursework and hands-on experience through internships at local clinics.

Hawaiian Studies

Veterinary Assisting

This certificate prepares students for careers in envi-ronmental science/studies and enables them to transfer to Bachelor of Science degree programs.

Bio-Resources and Technology: Bio-Resource Development and Management

A 24-credit program, this certificate is a college creden-tial that prepares students and qualifies them for transfer to a four-year college. Students gain recognition for their accomplishments while learning specific business skills, which may look good to potential employers.

Business

Provides pre-professional training for students plan-ning careers in human services. Students must complete 27-credits in liberal arts courses and cooperative education at participating social service agencies or hospitals.

Psycho-Social Development Studies

Certificate of Achievement

Peter tully Owen

bOnnie beatsOn

Peter tully Owen

bOnnie beatsOn

S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 3

W I N D W A R D C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E

8 Ka ‘Ohana CAMPUS NEWS

Congratulations to four indi-viduals who were recognized at WCCs commencement cere-

mony May 11. Each received an award for excellence in teaching, service or volunteerism.

Fred Kalani Meinecke, assistant professor of Hawaiian language, re-ceived the 2013 University of Hawaii Board of Regents’ Medal for Excel-lence in Teaching.

The award recognizes faculty who exhibit an extraordinary level of subject mastery and scholarship, teaching effectiveness and creativ-ity, and personal values beneficial to students.

Kumu Kalani’s determination to keep the Hawaiian language alive is recognized by his students, who

say that this resolve offers them a “greater sense of hope and pride.” He has inspired many of his students to continue their education into gradu-ate level work, and many have become teachers themselves.

Ross Langston, assistant professor of biology received the 2013 Francis Davis Award for Excellence in Teach-ing, recognizing his dedication and excellence in the classroom and atten-tion to undergraduate students.

Langston has been the key player in the creation of the Veterinary Technology program at WCC. He has brought it from infancy to establish-ment of the Certificate of Achieve-ment in Veterinary Assisting, and finally to the Associate in Science in Veterinary Technology degree.

Lisa Hayashi, academic support specialist for WCCs Natural Sci-ences Department, received the 2013 Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Service.

She has proven herself “indispen-sible” to science faculty and students at the college, and her organization and safety standards applied in all her work have earned her “Best and Most Careful Lab Technician” in the UH system.

Sandy Kurosaki, Windward Ho‘olaule‘a Fundraising Champion received the 2013 Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Voluntary Service. She loves the Windward community and higher education.

It is through her association in the Kaneohe Business Group that

she joined the Windward Ho‘olaule‘a Steering Committee and grew to be the event’s leading fundraiser and cheerleader.

Over a period of five years, Kurosa-ki helped raise more than $200,000 to keep the annual event going—each year, providing more scholarships to deserving WCC students than the last.

Event proceeds in 2012 totaled $30,000 with $23,000 benefitting stu-dent scholarships and $7,000 going toward college programs through the WCC Advancement Fund.

She was described as the “con-summate volunteer”—taking the lead wherever it was needed—whether it was coordinating tents, lights, tables and chairs or rounding up friends to staff the information tent.

Recognition given at commencement

PEtER tUlly oWEN PEtER tUlly oWEN PEtER tUlly oWEN Photo CoURtESy of SANdy KURoSAKi

Chancellor successfully challenges accreditation findingsb y K e l l y M o n t g o m e r y

Ka ‘Ohana Editor in Chief

If receiving financial aid and getting credit for your

courses is important to you, then accreditation should be as well.

Every six years the Ac-crediting Commission for Community and Junior Col-leges (ACCJC) sends a team to assess our school and make recommendations where im-provement is necessary.

In October 2012 a team found that the five recom-mendations previously made had not been met.

However, Chancel lor Doug Dykstra was appalled at their findings, or more ac-curately, lack thereof.

In fact, Dykstra composed a 27-page rebuttal, 16 pages of which were simply documen-tation to prove the conditions had been met—or even ex-ceeded standards—and flew to San Francisco to contest their findings.

“The rebuttal was intend-ed to provide them with the documentation that they ap-parently had not seen,” said

Dykstra, “Even though it was available (and) used in our accreditation self-study, they didn’t pay sufficient attention to it.

“They said our Planning and Budget Council had not been very active until the spring of 2012,” Dykstra con-tinued. “Well, we had proof it had been very active since the spring of 2010.

“No one came to me and said, ʻYou know what? We think you folks have sat on your hands through the spring of 2010, the spring of 2011, fall of 2011 and you didn’t get active until the spring of 2012.̒ No one said that to me and they should have. I’m the chair.”

It was the same with the other recommendations that Dykstra had objected to. One was on student learning out-comes for student affairs.

The team claimed there were none at the time when they had been posted on the office wall.

“What we didn’t have, and what we’ve since cor-rected, is assessment of those SLO s̒. They brought our at-

tention to the fact that we can’t just ignore the assess-ment. Anybody can make an SLO but you’ve got to assess it and that’s what we’ve done now.”

The team also said our non-credit operations did not have any SLO’s as previously recommended.

“Not only were there SLO’s, but they had been assessed. We had the docu-mentation on that. But again, nobody went to the director of the non-credit operation.She could’ve set them straight right at that moment.”

Overall, the accreditation team did not corroborate the information with the proper individuals and therefore had inaccurate information.

Luckily, Windward has a chancellor willing to fight for what’s right.

The board sided with Dykstra and will be sending out a new team sometime by mid-November to reassess WCC’s proposed recommen-dations.

It ’s possible, but not certain yet, that they will be sending one team out to

evaluate the entire UH com-munity college system. If so, this would be the first time that has ever happened.

Students can identify the accreditation follow-up team by the badges they wear. Some may even ask you questions about financial aid availability, your opinion of the campus and quality of instruction or simply how you like it here at Windward.

Dykstra recommends you answer honestly and forth-rightly and just be cheerful.

“I am hoping that they will give us praise for our ef-forts on all five of the recom-mendations,” said Dykstra. “I’m realistic enough to know that until we’re fin-ished with all of our learning outcome assessment projects they’re going to want to hear from us and we’ll continue to have to do follow-up reports until we’re finished.”

Dykstra’s expectations are that by this time next year, we will be completely finished.

Chancellor Doug Dykstra says a new accreditation team will visit this fall.ERiC lEviNE

Sandy KurosakiLisa HayashiRoss LangstonFred Kalani Meinecke

W I N D W A R D C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E

9Ka ‘OhanaS e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 3

CAMPUS NEWS

A group of artists whose work illustrates the history and cultures of

Hawai‘i manga-style are being featured in Gallery ‘Iolani this month.

Brady Evans, curator and a UH-Mānoa graduate, is host-ing his first exhibit under gallery director and art profes-sor Toni Martin in “Crossing Cultures: The Art of Manga in Hawaii” through Oct. 2.

The featured works are “Cacy & Kiara and the Curse of the Ki‘i” by Roy Chang; “Gordon Rider” by Jon J. Mu-rakami; “Nemu Nemu” by Audra Ann Furuichi and Scott Yoshinaga; “The Children of ‘Aumakua” by Marisa Tori-goe; and “Journey of Heroes: The Story of the 100th Infan-try Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team” by Damon Wong.

The gallery was strategi-cally adorned with works and two “cosplay” costumes by the contributing artists and illustrators, each displaying its own story aesthetically in manga.

However, for those who

are not professional illustrators or fans of the art form, what is manga? Brady explains, “Some might say manga is merely “Japanese comics,” but I think it goes deeper than that. It’s a type of comic that regularly deals with a wide range of stories and topics and for many demographics. Manga also tends to be more cinematic, of-ten conveying its story through implied imagery rather than with explanatory text.”

Following a manga comic story begins with four panels called yonkoma that go in or-der from top to bottom and in lengthier stories are read right to left. Yonkoma is used to tell short stories and link a series of stories, Brady says. Each story may hold 20 to 40 pages

compiled into magazines that are usually 300-600 pages thick with an average of 15 to 18 stories.

Contrary to American comic books where each phase of the storyline is completed by different illustrator teams for monthly publishing, each manga is illustrated and writ-ten by individual artists who create new stories weekly. Often new stories will start out as yonkoma and, if they’re successful, will take their place in a billion-dollar industry in publication and merchandise supported heavily by its fans and marketing.

Brady credits Kikaida in the exhibit with having first sparked Hawai’i’s relationship to Japanese pop culture. In the

ʻ70s, “Kikaida” was a TV show (where) actors dressed up in costumes (were) fighting with special effects.

The show in Hawai‘i has since retained a loyal fan base that inspired generations thereafter into the Japanese arts of manga and anime. Manga has been in Hawai’i since the ʻ80s; however, it be-came popular at the turn of the millennium.

The artists chosen for this exhibit are close friends and acquaintances of curator and illustrator Evans.

In spring 2012, while most students were looking forward to commencement, Brady was offered a chance to present his

proposal for a spot at WCC’s Gallery ‘Iolani for a fall 2013 exhibit.

The exhibit he curated under gallery director Toni Martin was a year in the mak-ing. Martin and her team as-sisted Evans, who also works at Honolulu Museum of Art.

“Crossing Cultures: The Art of Manga in Hawaii” is an exhibit for art enthusiasts of all ages.

The exhibit is open until Oct. 2, Mon/Tues. from 1 to 8 p.m., Wed/Thurs/Fri/Sun from 1 to 5 p.m., and Sat., Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. dur-ing the Windward Ho‘olaule‘a. Meet the artists Sunday, Sept. 29 from 2 to 4 p.m.

b y A n y a h A l b e r t Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter

Discover Hawai‘i’s take on manga

The Children of ‘Aumakua by Marisa Torigoe.

A collection of manga magazines on display in Gallery ‘Iolani.JESSiCA CrAWford

UH tries to find its mojo with better focusb y J o h n B a s c u k

Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter

Coach Norm Chow and his Rainbow Warriors are off

to a shaky start and need to turn things around with better offensive play.

The Warriors, who fin-ished with a disappointing 3-9 record in 2012, look like they still have a lot of work to do.

The team will need to show vast improvement if they want to compete in the Mountain West Conference and win games this year.

The main focus will be on quarterback Taylor Graham, a transfer from Ohio State who sat out the entire football sea-son last year.

Graham has been tapped as the team’s leading play caller. Despite not starting in a college game, Graham had looked very sharp in the offseason.

As for the ground game, Hawai‘i’s leading rusher, Joey Iosefa, had battled injuries throughout camp and into the upcoming season.

It’s crucial to get him back to full health and, hope-fully, back on the field by mid season.

Defensively, it looks as though we can expect to see

great play all year. This is an extremely physi-

cal group with a stout front seven led by senior lineback-ers Art Laurel and Brenden Daley.

Although Hawaii came up short against 24th-ranked USC, surprisingly, they gave the fans a glimpse of what could be a promising season.

The defense did a good job of keeping USC’s offense in check early in the game, in-cluding a big-time play, sack-ing the Trojans’ quarterback in the end zone for a safety and, shortly after, taking a 5-3 lead with a field goal.

The difference in the game were the turnovers.

With Graham’s four inter-ceptions, Hawai‘i was unable to get their offense going the way they wanted to.

Despite USC’s slow start, they breezed past the Warriors with a final score of 30-13.

Following the tough loss at home, Hawai‘i went on the road to take on the Oregon State Beavers.

The game was all tied up 14-14 through one half of play, due to stellar performances on offense and defense, includ-ing a 23-yard interception, returned for a touchdown by

UH linebacker Julian Gerner. The Beavers suddenly took

control after making adjust-ments at halftime, eventually pulling away with a final score of 33-14.

At press time, Hawai‘i had

UPCOMING SCHEDULE

Sept. 28, 6 p.m. vs. Fresno State BulldogsOct. 5, 6 p.m. vs. San Jose State SpartansOct. 12, 2:05 p.m. @UNLV RebelsOct. 19, BYEOct. 26, 6 p.m. vs. Colorado State RamsNov. 2, 10 a.m. @Utah State AggiesNov. 9, 9:30 a.m. @Navy MidshipmenNov. 16, 5:30 p.m. vs. San Diego State Aztecs Nov. 23, 8 a.m. @Wyoming CowboysNov. 30, 6 p.m. vs. Army Black Knights

yet to face Nevada. Trying to capture the team’s

first win this season, Hawai‘i will need to keep up the physi-cal play on defense and be more consistent offensively for that long-awaited victory.

UH AtHlEtiCS

UH AtHlEtiCS

Quarterback Taylor Graham throws a pass against the USC defense.

Saisau Matagiese celebrates after a sack for a safety against USC.

10W I N D W A R D C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E

Ka ‘OhanaS e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 3

The LLC is more than just an award-

winning architectural achievement. It’s also the go-to place for students seeking extra help. We’ve compiled a list of the various labs offered and included a map to help you find your way around. Please take advantage of these services as they are entirely free!

Library Learning Commons offers students free services for success

Library Learning Commons

speech Lab—room 220Contact: audrey mendoza

The speech lab offers help in speeches and presentations for any class. PowerPoint presentation as-sistance is available as well.

For more information, contact Audrey Mendoza at 236-9221 or amendoza@hawaii.edu.

Mon. 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.Tues. 9-11 a.m., 1-2 p.m., 4-5 p.m.Wed. 9-3:30 p.m.Thurs. 9-11 a.m., 1-2 p.m., 4-5 p.m.Fri. 9 a.m.-1:45 p.m.

Writing resource Center—room 222Contacts: annette Priesman and Lisa Chow

All WCC students are invited to consult with the Writing Resource Center staff to assist with their writing needs at any stage of the writing process (brainstorming, drafting, revising, etc.).

They can help students with:•Pre-writing – understanding

and analyzing the assignment•Planning – gathering and orga-

nizing information, research strate-gies

•Feedback – on drafts for idea development, citing sources, and grammar/punctuation/format.

Students can make appointments via email. Scheduled appointments through email take precedence over walk-ins.

Go to windward.hawaii.edu/writing.

Mon. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.Tues. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.Wed. 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.Thurs. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.Fri. 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

math Lab—room 226The math lab offers tutoring for

all WCC math classes. There are four Windows computers with essential software for students to use along with two study tables.

While in the Math Lab, students can also check out graphing calcula-tors as well as math textbooks for temporary use. This is an open lab, and students can drop in for tutoring anytime during hours of operation.

Mon. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.Tues. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.Wed. noon-5:30 p.m.Thurs. 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.Fri. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Testing Center—room 228Contact: ellen nagaue

This is the place for Compass testing or to take tests for dis-tance education courses, as well as make-up and re-testing. Students need to bring a photo I.D. For more information, call 235-7498. Mon./Tues. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Wed/Thurs. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Fri. 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

supplemental instruction—room 230Contacts: Loea akiona and scott sutherland

An SI is a student who has taken the course previously and has been recommended by the instructor.

The SI leader attends all class lectures, is familiar with the course content, and knows what it takes to succeed in the class.

They offer a series of weekly review sessions facilitated by an SI leader and open to all students. Na-tional data shows that on average, students who attend SI receive a half to full letter grade higher than the average of those who do not.

For more information, contact Loea Akiona at 235-7495 or loea@hawaii.edu or stop by the office Mon.-Fri. from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

assistive Tech Lab—room 232Contact: stacie Phasouk

The assistive tech lab is here to help accommodate anyone with a disability

or in need of assistance. To make an appointment, call 236-9202 or stop by during the following hours:

Mon.-Thurs. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30-4:30 p.m.

mental Health and Wellness—room 234Contact: Dan mcalinden

With this service, students can understand themselves better and make healthy choices.

Students have utilized counsel-ing to address issues related to stress, self-esteem, identity, relationships, isolation, depression, anxiety, sexual orientation, drugs, alcohol and re-covery from abuse.

Personal counseling provides an opportunity to set goals, make changes, and develop in a supportive context.

Available on Wed. and Thurs. from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Call 235-7413, M-F, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. for an appointment.

matthew maneha, one of the tutors in the math Lab, doing a demonstration for students.

keLLy monTgomery

Lisa Chow and annette Priesman offer their expertise at the Writing resource Center.

keLLy monTgomery

CAmPUS neWS

W I N D W A R D C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E

EditorialS e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 3

11Ka ‘Ohana

I think that the U.S. should not intervene on the chemical attacks in Syria.

The U.S. is already trillions of dollars in debt, a debt that each citizen will be paying off the rest of our lives. This debt might even affect future gener-ations. As great as America is, we have our own problems that need to be addressed before we decide to help other countries.

—Austin Kunishige

In a way, I feel the U.S. government feels morally ob-ligated to aid Syria because we are equipped with a powerful army. In another sense, the U.S. is inevitably drawn into the problem because one of the prime resources at stake: oil.

I don’t understand the Syria dilemma completely, but it appears that if we were to in-vade Syria, our oil cost would rise dramatically since Syria’s ally, Iran, is a major producer and would most likely leave us with a scarce supply during the invasion.

There are many factors to take into account. Do we want to put our country’s people at risk for another country’s con-flict? What are the benefits of invading Syria? What are the consequences?

—Cara Kruse

Instead of going to war, the U.S. should send diplomats to Syria to try to work things out, instead of endangering more lives. As a Marine Corps brat, I am honestly tired of see-ing families torn apart from the traumas of war. Instead

How should the U.S. respond to chemical attacks in Syria?From page 2 of jumping in,

the government s h o u ld wa i t it out and do more watching and research be-fore any type of battle.

—Marcella Cintra

It is difficult to say exactly how the U.S. should respond to Syria. In the past, the information that was given to the public has been false and misleading.

The first thing that should be done is an unbiased ex-amination or investigation of the attacks. The investigation should address things from the origins of the gas used to the motivation of the attacks.

Who benefits? The people of the world have been de-ceived and lied to again and again. I donʻt believe that a hasty response would be the right thing to do for these reasons.

The American people have been overextended enough. It’s time for universal ideals and concepts that benefit all as a whole.

—Reginald Rowland

I think the U.S. should first verify the reports before even considering any form of action. After Operation Iraqi Freedom and the so-called “weapons of mass destruc-tion,” many people are wary of the United Statesʻ motives in acting in situations such as these.

If the reports are con-firmed, I believe the U.S. should only act with force if invited to do so.

Anti-American feelings are so prevalent in that area of the world that the U.S. must not appear to be the aggressor. Such actions can worsen an already bad relationship.

—Jerrick Laimana

The U.S. should respond in an informed, unbiased and professional manner.

The use of chemical weap-

ons is forbid-den, even in war, accord-ing to inter-national law. Although Syria is not a signature of the law, it should face harsh penal-ties should the reports prove factual and true.

Until these reports can be verified by credible sources, such as the U.N., the U.S. should do nothing.

The Middle East is a hotbed of strife and has long been an international focal point. In the Middle East and, globally, the image of my beloved country, the U.S., has been tarnished.

If the U.S. were to become involved militarily in Syria, it would no doubt lead to a full-blown conflict with “boots on the ground.” Such a scenario is undesirable. I believe the U.S.

should not meddle in other country’s affairs.

—Logan Kamalani

To rebuild foreign rela-tions, the U.S. should pursue a decision to attack or not attack through the U.N.

—Erik Morinaga

In my opinion, I feel that the U.S. should only respond if it poses a high threat to our country. Even though it is good to take precautions, the government should not over-react too quickly.

Syria may pose threats and reports of chemical at-tacks but if it has nothing to do with the United States, then I feel the U.S. should not get involved.

Our government has lots of power but there shouldn’t be a war caused by the U.S. getting involved. Wars are caused by a disagreement within two different parties. The United States already has enough issues to worry about.

—Amanda Lum

Hu mea pa‘ani (intramurals)-Tom Doi

Volleyball starts Oct. 5 and runs through November at the Hawaii State Hospital Gym on Mondays from 3-5 p.m. Other activities include dodgeball, flag football, kickball and softball. Register at letsplay@hawaii.edu. Waiver form and viewing the domestic violence video required. Sponsored by the Sexual Violence Preven-tion Program (SVPP).

More club options to choose from are listed below. For more details, contact the advisor.Botany Club —Inge WhiteCeramics Club—Paul NashC h e m i s t r y C l u b — L e t t y ColmenarespSI Beta Honor Society—Frank Palacat and Falisha HerbicSustainabi l i ty Club—Floyd McCoymele ohana—Carlton CarmackVet. Tech. St. assoc. —John Kaya

From page 5Clubs

U.S. president Barack obama and Syrian president Bashar al-assad.

Upcoming eventsTuesday, oct. 8—Reprogramming Life: Induced Pleuripotent Stem Cells with guest speaker Frank Williams, MD. Exciting breakthroughs in molecular technology have led to the ability to create stem cells. 1-2 p.m. at Hale ‘Imiloa 111.

Saturday, oct. 12—Women s̒ Summit co-sponsored by Sen. Brian Schatz. The panel is looking for community input on women-specific issues such as pay equity and child care.1-4 p.m. at Palikū Theatre.

S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 3

W I N D W A R D C O M M U N I T Y C O L L E G E

12 Ka ‘Ohana Arts & Entertainment

An “astonishing cast,” a beloved director and over a year-long journey to get the show on stage.

That, according to theatre manager Tom Holowach, is just the tip of the ice-berg for WCC’s production of “Les Mi-sérables” at Palikū Theatre.

Based on Victor Hugo’s French his-torical novel by the same name, the mu-sical follows the character Jean Valjean, a man who is released after serving 19 years in prison for stealing bread for his starving sister.

After breaking his parole, he at-tempts to turn a new leaf and fight for redemption as Javert, the police inspec-tor, attempts to capture him. Set in the revolutionary period in France, Valjean’s story is woven among those of the young idealists who make their last stand at a street barricade.

This production boasts an array of

hand-built guns that fire percussion caps, set pieces designed in a 360-de-gree manner so they can be utilized in

multiple scenes, and a cast that includes international and Broadway performers.

The audience will leave with “an unbelievable appreciation for the quality of talent available to us here in Hawai‘i,” said Holowach. “Every single person in the cast is strong.”

Taking the lead as Valjean is Kip Wilborn, a local and international opera performer. Buzz Tennent, who is a local and national singer/actor, plays opposite of Wilborn as inspector Javert.

Returning home for this production is former Castle student and Kalaheo graduate Clifton Hall. Hall’s past projects include Broadway’s “Les Mi-sérables,” “Miss Saigon” and “Wicked.” He plays Marius, a student who falls in love amidst the revolution.

His love interest, Cosette, is played by local actress/singer Kim Anderson, who starred as Maria in Palikū Theatre’s “West Side Story.” Reprising the role of Cosette’s rival, Eponine, is local theater star Shawna Masuda. Castle graduate Jana Anguay Alcain plays Cosette’s mother, Fantine.

Putting the musical on Palikū’s stage is the reward of a back and forth process that stretched over a year. Ac-cording to Holowach, after the amount of success and praise Palikū received from its “Phantom of the Opera,” a lot of attention was paid to the fine print of the contracts.

“If we were just a little community college putting on little plays, no one would pay closer attention. But ‘Phan-tom’ was the single most successful theatrical production in the history of University of Hawai‘i,” said Holowach.

At times he said he felt like Diana Nyad, the 64-year-old woman who accomplished her long-time goal of swimming from Cuba to Florida earlier this month.

So why was he so persistent in get-ting the rights to produce “Les Miz”?

“This is the one show that Mr. Bright has wanted to do all his life,” Holowach

replied.To say Ron Bright is a beloved direc-

tor is an understatement. Bright taught Castle High School’s drama department for 50 years, and still remains a key figure in raising the next generation of Hawai‘i’s performing arts. While some people choose to climb mountains, Holowach and Bright choose to pursue musicals. The two always had their sights set on “Les Miz.”

“Mr. B. has a way of putting emo-tional ties to stories,” said Andrew Doan, who is the assistant technical director. The strong emotions played out on stage could be rooted in the close bonds between the director and cast members.

“I have never seen a cast as close-knit as this one,” said stage manager Michelle Blake, who has years of theater experience as a cast member, in the scene

shop and as a stage manager. “And the sound they create is phenomenal.”

“We have the best guy on the is-land custom tailoring the sound to this room,” said technical assistant Duncan Dalzell.

“Les Miz” is about love, “not just in a romantic sense, but the power of love that one human being has for another person as a human being,” explained Holowach. In the 300-seat theater, he added, “You’re so close to everyone. You cannot separate yourself from the emo-tions on the stage at all.” Translation: Get your tissues ready, people.

For tickets, contact 235-7310 or visit etickethawaii.com. The production may be extended through Oct. 27. Fridays and Sat-urdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m. An hour before each show, 40 tickets are being sold first-come, first-served.

‘Les Miz’: The dream they dreamedb y A u s t e n T a y l o r M a t r o

Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter

Tom HolowacH

Tom HolowacH

Kip Wilborn (left) and Buzz Tennent portray Jean Valjean and Inspector Javert in Paliku Theatre’s production of “Les Misérables,” which opened this month to sold-out houses.

Director Ron Bright rehearses with the cast.

For the second year in a row, WCC hosted an evening of bon dancing Sept. 14 to honor loved ones and ancestors who have passed away and to celebrate a community gathering of cultures.

(Clockwise from top left) 1) The campus fills with dancers around the yagura.2) Coordinator Dorene Niibu, The Rev. David Nakamoto of Kailua Hongwanji Mission and Chancellor Doug Dykstra are ready to begin. 3) The Young Okinawans of Hawaii performed in colorful costumes.4) The Kaneohe Sukiyaki Dance Group, also known as the “Pink Ladies” celebrated with a rose petal ceremony.5) Lukanicole Zavas, a WCC student and library assistant, poses in her kimono.6) Lion dancers from the Young Okinawans troupe.

WCC’s Autumn Festival delights crowd

pHoTos by jessica crawfordpaTrick Hascall

bonnie beaTson