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property served as a track for bowling games such as ulumaika and pahe'e. Although the property is <br /> relatively flat,there is an elevated outcrop overlooking the track which seems to have served as a natural <br /> amphitheater or viewing area for spectators. On the surrounding properties,there were additional sports <br /> and training areas specifically for warriors and students of lua,the Hawaiian martial arts. <br /> As native descendants and cultural practitioners,we plan to work with Ka'u families and community <br /> members to steward the property so that it can be used again for cultural practices. We hope that this <br /> property can be a piko for the community where Hawaiian values and culture can flourish. As a cultural <br /> center,its function would be to serve as a place of gathering to welcome practitioners,discuss cultural <br /> issues,share kupum.i stories and knowledge,strengthen the community,empower our youth,allow people to <br /> find their identity,study genealogies and family relationships,learn Hawaiian language and Ka'u history, <br /> dress traditionally,grow and harvest Hawaiian plants,build imu for cooking,allow traditional style luau <br /> celebrations,and serve as a foundation to kokua other lands in Ka'u. <br /> In order to honor this place and our ancestors appropriately,much of our preliminary work will involve <br /> research and guidance from kupuna to understand what is best for the land. Once the land is prepared and <br /> properly managed,it is our intention to host cultural workshops and groups. Within the next two years,our <br /> goal is to celebrate Makahiki at the Kahua Olohu. The entire community will be welcome to celebrate,to <br /> learn the stories of our kupuna and to participate in games and events. We believe that this effort will honor <br /> our kupuna while also presenting an amazing opportunity to educate the community and recon ncet through <br /> traditional sport. Kaunamano Ahupua'a has a rich history and a vibrant landscape with inane u aLural and <br /> cultural resources. With this initiative to malama the Kahua Olohu,we anticipate additional opportunities <br /> to reconnect and to expand our stewardship,education and cultural practices throughout the ahupua'a. <br /> In closing,we believe that the restoration of the Kahua Olohu stands as a symbol of Ka'u Makaha--Ka'u the <br /> Fierce,a term from ancient times defined as"a pride in one's district,people and all,to the exclusion of all <br /> else." There are many orgaaiyat ions in Ka'u today working to protect,preserve and restore our natural and <br /> cultural resources. Each is different in its own way but the common thread which is found inmost of these <br /> groups is this deep aloha for Ka'u and a desire to heal the land and the people. <br /> I <br />