The tortoise is known to symbolize elements in nature such as the moon. But the tortoise is also a symbol of wisdom, time and immortality. Just as Kauai-born Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole holds symbolic significance to Hawaiians, who will be celebrating
The tortoise is known to symbolize elements in nature such as the moon.
But the tortoise is also a symbol of wisdom, time and immortality.
Just as Kauai-born Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole holds symbolic significance to Hawaiians, who will be celebrating his life in full force for the next two weeks. Tortoise watching is a just one part of the multi-faceted celebration in honor one of Hawaii’s most beloved figures.
So catch a glimpse of tortoises living near the Makauwahi Cave, where there will be a guided tour on Thursday at the Makauwahi Reserve. According to tour coordinator Mary Werthwine, there is a bale of 15 of them, including the Sulcata and Leopard breeds.
“They help out with weed control,” said Werthwine. “And they move faster than most people would think.”
So much more will be a part of the prince’s celebration over the next 14 days around Poipu.
Such as rodeos.
Tami Jones Yamamoto, from Lawai, a born and raised Kauaian who has competed in island rodeos for nearly two decades, will ride at the CJM Country Stables where Prince Kuhio events will be held.
“We learned all about Prince Kuhio in school,” said Yamamoto from her Koloa hair salon.
Her passion for riding comes from her grandfather who used to take her to watch warm-up sessions at 4 a.m. before races began at Santa Anita Race Track in California. She will ride Cade, her 2-year-old male horse during the second weekend of Prince Kuhio festivities in the all-girls rodeo competition. It will be the horse’s debut in the arena.
“I’ve always loved horses, said Yamamoto. “They are a big part of my family.”
While the events begin this weekend, a multitude of events on Kauai are set for Monday and will run to March 29 to celebrate Prince Kuhio’s birthday (an official state holiday in Hawaii). Kuhio was one of Hawaii’s most beloved alii (royalty) and statesmen.
The Prince Kuhio Celebration, intended to honor Kuhio and his efforts to foster Hawaiian cultural values, provides a long list of interactive educational sessions about Hawaiian cultural practices, arts and crafts.
New to the line-up this year are the Makauwahi Cave Tour at Makauwahi Reserve, a treasure trove of indigenous and endemic plant species and archeological research. The Royal Order of Kamehameha has also added a tour of Prince Kuhio’s birthplace.
Adding to the mix are many opportunities for entertainment, observing cultural traditions, attending luaus, a rodeo and an outrigger canoe race. Sampling local foods, hearing talk story sessions and viewing commemorative ceremonies are also part of the schedule.
For Janet Kahalekumo, family and Hawaiian customs are everything. On Monday, she will be demonstrating the process of Paakai, or salt making, at the Salt Ponds.
“I’ve taken my children, grandchildren and great-grandchilden under my wing,” said Kahalekumo. “I mimicked my parents when I was a child, now it is up to me to pass on the tradition of salt making so it doesn’t die out when I’m gone. I am trying to perpetuate the knowledge, the story and the sea salt.”
The 76-year-old has 17 grandchildren.
“They have learned how to have patience sitting and sewing the flower and seashell leis,” said Kahalekumo.
She will be on hand to watch her grandchildren during a presentation of Hawaiian traditions and crafts during a portion of the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa Prince Kuhio celebrations.
Hawaii celebrations would hardly be complete without water activities. The 43rd annual long distance canoe race from Kalapaki Beach to Kukuiula Harbor will see over 200 paddling enthusiasts in various categories on March 22. Awards will be presented at Salt Pond Park but, according to Peter Chow, it’s not all about speed.
“For me paddling is everything,” said Chow. “It’s a lifestyle. Even if we’re not racing, it’s about being on the water and hanging out with the guys.”
• Lisa Ann Capozzi, features and education reporter can be reached at lcapozzi@thegardenisland.com
