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Hōkūleʻa ma Palamila

Noho malie o Hokulea i ke kai malie o Palamila - Hokuleʻa rests in the calm sea of Palmyra.....I ka po nei, ua hoʻi mai au i Oʻahu nei me kekahi o na mea waʻa o ka holo iho ana mai Hawaii i Palamila. Ua holoholo makou i ke kai a me na alahele o na moku, e huakaʻi a nana aku i ka nahele uluwehiwehi o ia moku, me na manu kai like ole ko laila. Eia kekahi mau kii o Palamila mai na holoholo nei:Last night, I returned to Oʻahu nei with some of the crew of the voyage down from Hawaii to Palmyra. We went cruising in the ocean and on the trails of the islands, to go on excursions and see the lush forest of the island, and the different seabirds there. Here are a few pictures of Palmyra from that cruising around.

ka nahele uluwehi o Palamila - the lush forest of Palmyra..

Nui na manukai o Palamila - Palmyra has SO many seabirds!
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It’s all over but the shouting now regarding the Superferry fiasco.Practically everyone is pointing their finger at someone else, yet the truth has to lie somewhere.Watch Free Hawai`i TV this coming Wednesday to find out how this disaster could have been prevented, what really caused it in the first place and where we go from here.And speaking of dead endings and new beginnings, our visit with Leon Siu continues to get much feedback from viewers who report, “wow! I never knew that.”Leon educates us all on why Hawai`i is not the 50th US state at all but instead a complete fake – much like the Superferry was. Don’t miss it this week on Voices Of Truth – One-On-One With Hawai`i's Future.MONDAY, March 23rd At 6:30 PM Maui – Akaku, Channel 53MONDAY, March 23rd At 7:00 PM & FRIDAY, March 27th At 5:30 PM Hawai`i Island – Na Leo, Channel 53SATURDAY, March 28th At 8:00 PM O`ahu, `Olelo, Channel 53"Hawai`i The Fake State - A Visit With Leon Siu"The history books are wrong. Hawai`i is not part of the US according to Leon Siu, who reveals why more people every day are awakening to realize one simple fact – Hawai`i's annexation to the US and subsequent statehood vote were both fake. The truth is out there. Watch It Here.THURSDAY, March 26th At 8:30 PM & FRIDAY, March 27th At 8:30 AM Kaua`i – Ho`ike, Channel 52“Garden Island Activist – A Visit With Puanani Rogers”Few can claim to have seen action on Kaua`i over the years like Nani Rogers. A long time fighter for Hawaiian rights, Nani was trained by some of the best. Today's she's involved in preventing further desecration at Naue. Don't miss her unique insights and find out why the people of Kaua`i are like no other. Watch It Here.Voices Of Truth interviews those creating a better future for Hawai`i to discover what made them go from armchair observers to active participants. We hope you'll be inspired to do the same.If you support our issues on the Free Hawai`i Broadcasting Network, please email this to a friend to help us continue. A donation today helps further our work. Every single penny counts.Donating is easy on our Voices Of Truth website via PayPal.You can watch Voices Of Truth anytime on the web.And for news and issues that affect you, watch Free Hawai`i TV, a part of the Free Hawai`i Broadcasting Network.
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SUPERFERRY WINS IN COURT LOSS

Superferry Chronicle Authors Paik & Mander Explain Why...the cushy federal loan guarantee for $140 million issued by the U.S. Maritime Administration, leaves the departing company in much better financial shape than if they were to continue in Hawai`i, running at a loss.But the biggest coup of all for the Superferry corporation is that it got what it needed out of the deal: to prove the boat’s seaworthiness as a demo model in competition to build the Navy’s Joint High-Speed Vessel (JHSV).Austal USA, an investor in Superferry as well as its builder, won the contract worth $1.6 billion last September to build ten JHSVs.That’s why conducting an EIS has been anathema to Superferry from the very start.Doing so would have kept the boat out of the water, and unable to prove itself against Austal USA’s competitors for the lucrative Navy contract....READ THE ENTIRE STORY HERE
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"A HISTORY OF THEFT and FAKE STATE"

Honolulu Star Bulletin March 20, 2009Hawaii Celebrates 50 Years After Statehood BillBy MARK NIESSEAssociated Press WriterHONOLULU (AP) — The state that gave America its first black president was hailed as a model of tolerance and diversity on the 50th anniversary of a bill signing that led to Hawaii becoming the 50th state.The pen President Dwight D. Eisenhower used a half-century ago was on display at the state Capitol on Wednesday as past and present state leaders sang Hawaiian music, held hands and reflected on the meaning of joining the United States.But as an Army band played patriotic songs, about two dozen Native Hawaiians chanted and marched in protest of statehood near the statue of Hawaii's last monarch, Queen Liliuokalani, wearing shirts that spelled out "A history of theft" and "Fake state."Speeches commemorating the 50th anniversary emphasized the islands' ethnic diversity and its right to have a voice in the United States through the overwhelming 93 percent vote for statehood.Soldiers who were born of Japanese parents but fought for the United States in World War II showed Hawaii's commitment to the nation before it even became a state, said Gov. Linda Lingle."These soldiers showed that being loyal to the American cause was in no way defined by ethnicity. It was determined instead by a belief in the principles of freedom and democracy," Lingle said. "Hawaii provided a model of tolerance ahead of its time."The Hawaii Admissions Act was signed by Eisenhower on March 18, 1959, clearing the way for a vote of Hawaii residents in June and the islands' acceptance into the nation that Aug. 21.Statehood was the culmination of a long series of events: the 1893 overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom, the islands' years as a remote U.S. territory and its importance in the Pacific following the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II.Hundreds of the state's former governors, legislators, congressmen, judges, entertainers and their families packed the Capitol for Wednesday's event. During the song "This is Aloha," singer Danny Couch asked the audience to hold hands and sway to the music.The Native Hawaiians outside weren't so cheerful. Longtime protester Richard Pomai Kinney carried his Hawaii state flag upside-down as a sign of distress."Statehood is a fraud," said Kinney, who was 19 years old at the time. "My parents said Hawaii would become a place only for the wealthy. Look at it today. There's nothing to celebrate."Others with the Hawaiian Independence Action Alliance said they feared the islands' native people will lose what's left of their sovereignty if the U.S. Congress passes a pending measure that would give them a degree of self-government similar to American Indians.They insist that Hawaii is still an independent nation because the Hawaiian Kingdom never agreed to be annexed."There was no treaty of annexation. Show me the treaty," said group organizer Lynette Cruz. "There's been an incorrect interpretation of history all these years."But House Speaker Calvin Say told the audience that Hawaii embraced core American ideals of overcoming adversity and accepting different cultures, as shown by the state's election of the nation's first Chinese, Japanese and Hawaiian senators and its being the birthplace of President Barack Obama."History shows time and again that even if you were born in the poorest part of town, you can achieve," Say said.ALOHA Kakou, e Hawaii, We are taking back our country, the Hawaiian Kingdom. History shows that Statehood for Hawaii is a Fraud. Imua HIAA. Ku Like Kakou No La Hui O Hawaii.Long Live The Hawaiian Kingdom, o Pomaikaiokalani
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INDIA COVERS HAWAI`I FAKE STATE PROTEST

The Times Of India - March 19, 2009Hundreds of the state's former governors, legislators, congressmen, judges, entertainers and their families packed the Capitol for the event. During the song "This is aloha," singer Danny Couch persuaded them and the audience to hold hands and sway to the music.The Native Hawaiians outside weren't so cheerful. Longtime protester Richard Pomai Kinney carried his Hawai`i state flag upside-down as a sign of distress."Statehood is a fraud," said Kinney, who was 19 years old at the time. "My parents said Hawai`i would become a place only for the wealthy. Look at it today. There's nothing to celebrate."Full Story Here
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I keia la, ua holo na akeakamai e nana kokoke i ka hua'i nui a Pele mai loko mai o ka moana o Tonga i ke kai Pakipika Hema.Scientists sailed out to have a closer look at the eruptions of an undersea volcano off the coast of Tonga in the South Pacific Ocean today.Wahi a ke poo o na hulihonua o Tonga, o ia ho'i o Kelepi Mafi, aohe mea poino no na kanaka noho ma Nukualofa a me na kanaka e a'e a pau o ka mokupuni o TongatapuTonga's head geologist, Kelepi Mafi, said there was no apparent danger to residents of Nuku'alofa and others living on the main island of Tongatapu.Ua hoopuka manao na luna nui, pili keia hua'i nei i ka ola'i honua, he 4.4 kona nui, i pa 'ia ai i ka la 13 Malakai aku nei, ma kahi o 35 kilomika ka loa mai ke kapikala, he 150 kilomika ma lalo o ka honua.Officials also said it may be related to a quake with a magnitude of 4.4 which struck last March 13 around 35 kilometers from the capital at a depth of nearly 150 kilometres.E nana i na kii maanei.Look at more pictures here.
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Share Cropping Program

If you have spare time on your hands.Share your idea's to the things that you have experience in like Water conservation, Land Management, Farming experiences etc.... We need all the gathering of the minds, hearts, bodies and spirit to create a self sustainable environment for our future in the survival of the Human species.You have Land and not enough time or energy to plant, maintain and or harvest, Please share your Life the true Ohana way. It is of the now that we need to do all what we need to do. "SURVIVE"
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AFTER WE ALREADY GOT THE PERMIT FOR THE EVENT WITH ALSO RESPECTING ANY RULES:THEREFORE WE ARE HOLDING IT BEHIND LUKES PLACE AT THE BARNWHICH WILL HOLD A LOT OF PEOPLE. PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD-------- Original Message -------Subject: Mahukona Beach Park - March 21st AdvertisedEventDate: Thu, 19 Mar 2009 10:44:02 -1000From: Fitzgerald, Robert A.To:Please be aware that the above-referenced event has not been approved by the Department of Parks and Recreation (see link to this event:http://lihikai.org/mahukonaconcert.html ) The police have been notified as we have safety and health concerns about any large event at Mahukona. There is also a water shortage at the park.Sincerely,Robert Fitzgerald Director, Department of Parks and RecreationCounty of Hawaii 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 6 Hilo, HI 96720 Ph# 808-961-8311
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Hawaiia s diversity applauded at statehood celebration - Hawaii...20090319_nws_statehood1.jpgHawaii was and is the most "diverse state in the Union, yet a place where racial and ethnic lines are often blurred or deemed irrelevant ."http://www.genocidewatch.org/8stages.htmTHIS PROCESS iS KNOWN AS CULTURECIDE and GENOCIDE aka COLONIALISM " GENOCIDE OF NATIONS and COUNTRIES TO MANIPULATE, CONTROL AND RAPE RESOURCES.Hawaii’s diversity applauded at statehood celebrationBy Pat GeePOSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Mar 19, 2009Gov. Linda Lingle called Hawaii's unique racial and cultural diversity one of its most resonant contributions to the world during a celebration yesterday of the signing of the Hawaii Admission Act, which paved the way for statehood 50 years ago.Mixed Feelings On Hawaii Statehood Anniversary50 years ago President Dwight Eisenhower signed the bill allowing Hawaii to become a state, some celebrated while some protested.[ Watch ]Lingle addressed a special joint legislative session and an overflow crowd at the state Capitol House Chamber as part of a yearlong commemoration by the Hawaii 50th Anniversary of Statehood Commission. Honorees included a virtual parade of who's who in Hawaii, many of them recognized as the "50 Voices of Statehood," a video anthology created by the commission.President Dwight Eisenhower signed the Admission Act on March 18, 1959, paving the way for Hawaii residents to vote overwhelmingly in favor of the bill June 27. Eisenhower officially proclaimed Hawaii the 50th state on Aug. 21.A group of 30 protesters held its own press conference nearby prior to the Capitol event but did not disrupt the ceremony. The Hawaiian Independence Action Alliance, a coalition of 10 groups organized by Lynette Cruz, opposed the "fraudulence of the history being celebrated at the capitol," a release said.Senate President Colleen Hanabusa and House Speaker Calvin Say joined the governor in applauding Hawaii for being, in Lingle's words, "a place like no other, with a people like no other.""Hawaii was and is in many ways a simple place with complex issues, and in many ways is defined by our contradictions," Lingle said. "We are isolated geographically, yet we serve as a vital bridge between the mainland United States and Asia-Pacific region. ... We are the most diverse state in the Union, yet a place where racial and ethnic lines are often blurred or deemed irrelevant ..."Our differences are our strength and they create the vibrant tapestry of our culture," providing "a model of tolerance ahead of its time," she said.Hawaii has also provided "a model of community" in being able to pull together to meet challenges. Perhaps facing the biggest obstacle since 1959 in the economic crisis today, the entire community will need the same determination and hard work to achieve stability, Lingle added.Cassidy Apo, 11, of Mid-Pacific Institute thought the ceremony "pretty cool." One of the few youngsters to attend the event, she was spending the day with her dad, City Councilman Todd Apo, who represents West Oahu and the Leeward Coast.Cassidy Apo said she wants to be a social studies teacher one day and, after listening to the speeches, found it "amazing" that so much was accomplished in 50 years.She said, "Our best feature is our culture. Hawaii is really unique and we can do a lot to help the nation ... (President Barack) Obama knows Hawaii's problems and can help make it better. He can use the experience he had living in different places to make the nation a better place."Also in attendance were members of the state's first legislature, and living former governors and first ladies.http://www.starbulletin.com/news/hawaiinews/20090319_hawaiis_diversity_applauded_at_statehood_celebration.htmlFreeHawaii-FakeHood.jpg
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I took this pic. this a.m. of a Haole lady in her car with a bunch of those stupid dancing hula dolls.1.jpeg

I think I just confused my supervisor as I asked her if she saw those Caucasian dolls dancing like how Caucasian people do, or the Black dolls of how Popolos like to dance, or if she saw the Japanese, Chinese or even Mexican dolls. She asked if that was something new.Then I told her they actually don't exist but these "Hawaiian" ones do. She asked what did that mean to me, and I told her what hula is. She said, "maybe that lady is from Hawaii?" Hell no, she wasn't! Although I understand that perhaps a person from Hawaii may have those on their dashboard (certainly not an abundance of them) but I seriously doubt this person was a local, especially since locals, or should I say a particular ethnic group (or two) like to have those faux "Ikaika" helmets.I have yet to see other ethnic groups portrayed in that manner, where things of their culture that have either religious significance or some other type of cultural value are commercialized and seen as "cute", "endearing" or the worse, as many have told me...."flattering!"
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MSNBC COVERS HAWAI`I FAKE STATE PROTEST

HONOLULU - There was a major event at the state Capitol Wednesday marking the 50th anniversary of Hawai`i becoming a state, but it was not a day to celebrate for everyone."The state of Hawai`i is not a state, and although it has pretended to be for 50 years it is not a state because there was never any lawful turnover from the Hawaiian Kingdom," protestor Leon Siu said.SEE THE FULL STORY HERE
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While the irons hot!

Speaking to a co- worker...on the ressurection for The Kingdom.He replies, "it can be done". Turn to the Kupunas, we need toestablish a Platform and Dialogue...too many fractions.remove (mine and me) for UNITY a sense of ONENESS.Isreal Kamakawiwo'ole said,"to get ahead, without steppingon another Hawaiian feet" forward people, go forward.bless.
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Imperialsm

Noun1. imperialism - a policy of extending your rule over foreign countriesforeign policy - a policy governing international relationsmanifest destiny - a policy of imperialism rationalized as inevitable (as if granted by God)2. imperialism - a political orientation that advocates imperial interestsideology, political orientation, political theory - an orientation that characterizes the thinking of a group or nation3. imperialism - any instance of aggressive extension of authoritycontrol - the activity of managing or exerting control over something; "the control of the mob by the police was admirable"Americans can KEEP there pride of a country that does nothing but brainwash there education system making there youth believe that democracy is the way to go but in reality the truth is IMPERIALISM.Ths USA makes like there are doing good in the world but let the facts tell you otherwise.FACTThousands have died and thousands continue to be born with major birth defects due to the US military bombing of the Micronesian Islands. War crimes have been filed in the International courts against the U.S.FACTThe U.S. military has been illegally dumping there bombs off the shore of Waianae and Makaha causing the cancer rates of the Native people to a all time high, so you people want to complain about the homeless taking control of the beaches when you should be thanking them from stopping people from getting into the water!FACTIn the Phillipines the number of American troops rise, while the military bases grow and so does the genocide rate of innocent victims nationwide. Cancer rates contine to grow along with multiple other serious situations thanks to the weapons the U.S. continues to use knowing the FACT of how dangerous using these weapons and the harmful effects it has on people. Truth is, the U.S. military is fighting the TRUE INDIGENOUS peoples of the Phillipines and all they want is to be left alone, on there lands, with there traditions and there way of life.FACTThe U.S. military has been in Guam for many many years and continues to grow there but in REALITY they are causing HARM to the local community. It is a known FACT that the bombs the U.S. military has been exploding off the shores of Micronesia has impacted the community of Guam, again with the cancer rates at an all time high due to radioactive chemicals, can you believe that after all this time there is no protocol nor hospital that is equiped for cancer patients.... WHAT A SHAME!now these are just examples of things that are happening in the Pacific, can you imagine WORLDWIDE?The US has 247,000 troops and civilians posted overseas, with a presence in more than 130 countries, covering every time zone.IMPERIALISM?Approximate number of U.S. military bases overseas: at least 737IMPERIALSM?United Nations passed into LAW The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples With an overwhelming majority of 143 votes in favour, only 4 negative votes cast (Canada, Australia, New Zealand, United States)and 11 abstentionsWhat a SHAME! KEEP YOU PRIDE! I SPIT on the U.S. with the way they continue with there CULTURAL GENOCIDE WORLDWIDE!
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Prayers for James Kekahuna Sr.

My father-in-law James Kekahawalu Kekahuna is in the hospital. He is in full organ failure. My husband and I ask that you pray for him as well as my mother-in-law Junelle, for the times that they have ahead of them. I also pray that I can be strong for my husband, who is a man that never really needed me as much as he needs me now.Mahalo Ke Akua!Vaiola and Hiram!!
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Malama i na laau o ka ulu ole!

It feels like my guts were ripped out, or about to be. I got a phone call from the management company, and I knew it wasn't good news. It was Cyndie, who is actually from Kailua. Anyway, she asked if I could remove the vines from my window because, as she puts it, she was concerned that the apartment may be infested with bugs. It was brought to her attention by the painter.I remembered that my former roommate told me that she could hear the painter making noises, because of the spiders. Apparently he encountered a lot of them. Fucking MAHU! Fuck man, that pisses me off.She said she understands I want my privacy but if I could trim it back, pull it away from the window. This goes for the living room area. Fuck man. I am so disappointed. Maybe that isn't the best description, but I told her they were like my babies and I cherish them. *sigh*Uploaded - 2\28\09-1Uploaded - 3\5\09-5DSCF2482DSCF2594I've invested years of letting them grow to that point, to have this dumb K____n painter who does half ass jobs pull it down, and now, screaming because of nature. Fuck, go back to where you came from them. Stupid shit. Fuck I am so mad at this whole ordeal.The good thing is that Cyndie said she really understands and how much I've put into the plants. They really have no fucking idea. Getting um passed agriculture in some of the cases, having the fucking non-English speaking gardeners butcher them all the time, and the painters, and the city official complain because of the fire extinguisher, having the mailman politely ask me to trim it. Fuck, I can't wait till this planet is destroyed thanks to fuck heads like these! I want their descendants to suffer because of their fucking desire to build over nature!
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FREEHAWAII.INFO PRESENTSFREE HAWAI`I TVTHE FREE HAWAI`I BROADCASTING NETWORK "I CAN'T BELIEVE THEY SAID THAT!"Amazing Things Were Said By The US Supreme Court Justices In The Ceded Lands Case.Things That Scared & Worried The Fake State & Office Of Hawaiian Affairs.What Was Said? See For Yourself Here.
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In Search of YOUR MANA'O

I'll be returning to complete my last requirements for doctorate research. If you are a Native Hawaiian and would like to answer a survey regarding your academic achievement and ethnic identity, please let me know. All information are confidential and names will be changed to conceal your identity.Your mana'o will be part of my research thus contribute to understanding and improving academic achievement scores for current and future teachers. Research is not limited to education thus can be used to assess programs and services that are created to support Native Hawaiians!You may respond here or shoot and email in the inbox. Mahalo for your kokua...
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The Hawai`i Superferry said it will cease operations on Thursday following a ruling yesterday by the Hawai`i Supreme Court that went against the inter-island ferry service.The Hawai`i Supreme Court ruled yesterday that a state law allowing the Superferry to operate without a complete environmental impact statement is unconstitutional.......State Senator J. Kalani English said the Superferry could have avoided the situation if it agreed to an environmental impact statement at the start of the process."It goes back to what we said from the beginning. We told the Superferry, `Simply follow the law,' " he said. "If they did that, none of this would have happened."Full Details Here
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Hawai'i Capital National Heritage Area Establishment Act'Visit the Library of Congress for more information.S 359 IS111th CONGRESS, 1st SessionS. 359, To Establish the Hawai'i Capital National Heritage Area, and for other purposes.IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATESJanuary 30, 2009Mr. INOUYE introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources--------------------------------------------------------------------------------A BILLTo establish the Hawai'i Capital National Heritage Area, and for other purposes.Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.This Act may be cited as the `Hawai'i Capital National Heritage Area Establishment Act'.SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.In this Act:(1) HERITAGE AREA- The term `Heritage Area' means the Hawai'i Capital National Heritage Area established by section 3(a).(2) LOCAL COORDINATING ENTITY- The term `local coordinating entity' means the local coordinating entity for the Heritage Area designated by section 3(d).(3) MANAGEMENT PLAN- The term `management plan' means the management plan for the Heritage Area required under section 5.(4) MAP- The term `map' means the map entitled `Hawai'i Capital National Heritage Area Proposed Boundary', numbered T17/90,000B, and dated January 2009.(5) SECRETARY- The term `Secretary' means the Secretary of the Interior.(6) STATE- The term `State' means the State of Hawai'i.SEC. 3. HAWAI'I CAPITAL NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA.(a) Establishment- There is established in the State the Hawai'i Capital National Heritage Area.(b) Boundaries- The Heritage Area shall consist of portions of Honolulu and the Honolulu Ahupua'a, as depicted on the map.(c) Availability of Map- The map shall be on file and available for public inspection in the appropriate offices of the National Park Service and the Hawai'i Capital Cultural Coalition.(d) Local Coordinating Entity- The Hawai'i Capital Cultural Coalition shall be the local coordinating entity for the Heritage Area.SEC. 4. DUTIES AND AUTHORITIES OF THE LOCAL COORDINATING ENTITY.(a) Duties of the Local Coordinating Entity- To further the purposes of the Heritage Area, the local coordinating entity shall--(1) prepare and submit a management plan for the Heritage Area to the Secretary in accordance with section 5;(2) assist units of local government, regional planning organizations, and nonprofit organizations in implementing the approved management plan by--(A) carrying out programs and projects that recognize, protect, and enhance important resource values in the Heritage Area;(B) establishing and maintaining interpretive exhibits and programs within the Heritage Area;(C) developing recreational and educational opportunities in the Heritage Area;(D) increasing public awareness of, and appreciation for, natural, historic, scenic, and cultural resources of the Heritage Area;(E) protecting and restoring historic sites and buildings in the Heritage Area that are consistent with the themes of the Heritage Area;(F) ensuring that signs identifying points of public access and sites of interest are posted throughout the Heritage Area; and(G) promoting a wide range of partnerships among governments, organizations, and individuals to further the purposes of the Heritage Area;(3) consider the interests of diverse units of government, businesses, organizations, and individuals in the Heritage Area in the preparation and implementation of the management plan;(4) conduct meetings open to the public at least semiannually regarding the development and implementation of the management plan;(5) for any fiscal year for which the local coordinating entity receives Federal funds under this Act--(A) submit to the Secretary an annual report that describes, for the fiscal year--(i) the accomplishments, expenses, income, amounts, and sources of matching funds;(ii) the amounts leveraged with Federal funds and sources of the leveraged funds; and(iii) grants made to any other entities;(B) make available to the Secretary for audit all information relating to the expenditure of Federal funds and any matching funds for the fiscal year; and(C) require, in all agreements authorizing the expenditure of Federal funds by other organizations, that the organizations receiving the Federal funds make available to the Secretary for audit all records and other information relating to the expenditure of the funds; and(6) encourage, by appropriate means, economic development that is consistent with the purposes of the Heritage Area.(b) Authorities- The local coordinating entity may, subject to the prior approval of the Secretary, for the purposes of preparing and implementing the management plan for the Heritage Area, use Federal funds made available under this Act to--(1) make grants to the State or a political subdivision of the State, nonprofit organizations, and other persons;(2) enter into cooperative agreements with, or provide technical assistance to, the State or a political subdivision of the State, nonprofit organizations, Federal agencies, and other interested parties;(3) hire and compensate staff;(4) obtain money or services from any source, including under any other Federal law or program;(5) contract for goods or services; and(6) support activities of partners and any other activities that--(A) further the purposes of the Heritage Area; and(B) are consistent with the approved management plan.(c) Prohibition on the Acquisition of Real Property- The local coordinating entity shall not use Federal funds made available under this Act to acquire real property or any interest in real property.SEC. 5. MANAGEMENT PLAN.(a) In General- Not later than 3 years after the date on which funds are made available to carry out this Act, the local coordinating entity shall submit to the Secretary for approval a management plan for the Heritage Area.(b) Requirements- The management plan shall--(1) describe comprehensive policies, goals, strategies, and recommendations for--(A) conveying the heritage of the region; and(B) encouraging long-term resource protection, enhancement, interpretation, funding, management, and development of the Heritage Area;(2) take into consideration existing State, county, and local plans in the development and implementation of the management plan;(3) include a description of actions and commitments that governments, private organizations, and individuals have agreed to take to protect, enhance, and interpret the natural, historic, scenic, and cultural resources of the Heritage Area;(4) specify existing and potential sources of funding or economic development strategies to protect, enhance, interpret, fund, manage, and develop the Heritage Area;(5) include an inventory of the natural, historic, cultural, educational, scenic, and recreational resources of the Heritage Area related to the stories and themes of the region that should be protected, enhanced, managed, or developed;(6) recommend policies and strategies for resource management, including the development of intergovernmental and interagency agreements to protect the natural, historic, cultural, educational, scenic, and recreational resources of the Heritage Area;(7) describe a program of implementation for the management plan, including--(A) performance goals;(B) plans for resource protection, enhancement, and interpretation; and(C) specific commitments for implementation of the management plan that have been made by the local coordinating entity or any government, organization, business, or individual;(8) include an analysis of, and recommendations for, ways in which Federal, tribal, State, and local programs may best be coordinated to carry out the purposes of this Act, including recommendations for the role of the National Park Service and other Federal agencies associated with the Heritage Area;(9) include an interpretive plan for the Heritage Area; and(10) include a business plan that--(A) describes the role, operation, financing, and functions of--(i) the local coordinating entity; and(ii) each of the major activities contained in the management plan; and(B) provides adequate assurances that the local coordinating entity has the partnerships and financial and other resources necessary to implement the management plan for the Heritage Area.(c) Termination of Funding- If the management plan is not submitted to the Secretary in accordance with this Act, the local coordinating entity shall be ineligible to receive additional funding under this Act until the date on which the Secretary approves the management plan.(d) Approval of Management Plan-(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 180 days after the date of receipt of the management plan under subsection (a), the Secretary, in consultation with the Governor of the State and any applicable tribal government, shall approve or disapprove the management plan.(2) CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL- In determining whether to approve the management plan, the Secretary shall consider whether--(A) the local coordinating entity represents the diverse interests of the Heritage Area, including governments, natural and historical resource protection organizations, educational institutions, businesses, community residents, and recreational organizations;(B) the local coordinating entity has afforded adequate opportunity for public and governmental involvement, including workshops and public meetings, in the preparation of the management plan;(C) the resource protection and interpretation strategies contained in the management plan, if implemented, would adequately protect the natural, historic, and cultural resources of the Heritage Area;(D) the management plan would not adversely affect any activities authorized on Federal or tribal land under applicable laws or land use plans;(E) the Secretary has received adequate assurances from the appropriate State, tribal, and local officials, the support of which is necessary to ensure the effective implementation of the State, tribal, and local aspects of the management plan; and(F) the local coordinating entity has demonstrated the financial capability, in partnership with others, to carry out the plan.(3) ACTION FOLLOWING DISAPPROVAL- If the Secretary disapproves the management plan under paragraph (1), the Secretary--(A) shall advise the local coordinating entity in writing of the reasons for the disapproval;(B) may make recommendations to the local coordinating entity for revisions to the management plan; and(C) not later than 180 days after the receipt of any proposed revision of the management plan from the local coordinating entity, shall approve or disapprove the proposed revised management plan.(4) AMENDMENTS- The Secretary shall approve or disapprove each amendment to the management plan that the Secretary determines would make a substantial change to the management plan in accordance with this subsection.(5) USE OF FUNDS- The local coordinating entity shall not use Federal funds authorized by this Act to carry out any amendments to the management plan until the Secretary has approved the amendments.SEC. 6. DUTIES AND AUTHORITIES OF THE SECRETARY.(a) Technical and Financial Assistance-(1) IN GENERAL- On the request of the local coordinating entity, the Secretary may provide to the local coordinating entity technical and financial assistance on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable basis, as determined by the Secretary, to develop and implement the management plan.(2) PRIORITY ACTIONS- In providing assistance under this subsection, the Secretary shall give priority to actions that assist in--(A) conserving the significant natural, historic, cultural, and scenic resources of the Heritage Area; and(B) providing educational, interpretive, and recreational opportunities consistent with the purposes of the Heritage Area.(3) COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS- The Secretary may enter into cooperative agreements with the local coordinating entity and other public or private entities for the purposes of carrying out this subsection.(b) Evaluation-(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 3 years before the date on which authority for Federal funding terminates for the Heritage Area under section 10, the Secretary shall--(A) conduct an evaluation of the accomplishments of the Heritage Area; and(B) prepare a report with recommendations for the future role of the National Park Service, if any, with respect to the Heritage Area.(2) EVALUATION COMPONENTS- An evaluation conducted under paragraph (1)(A) shall--(A) assess the progress of the local coordinating entity with respect to--(i) accomplishing the purposes of this Act for the Heritage Area; and(ii) achieving the goals and objectives of the approved management plan for the Heritage Area;(B) analyze the Federal, State, local, and private investments in the Heritage Area to determine the leverage and impact of the investments; and(C) review the management structure, partnership relationships, and funding of the Heritage Area for purposes of identifying the critical components for sustainability of the Heritage Area.(3) REPORT-(A) IN GENERAL- Based on the evaluation conducted under paragraph (1)(A), the Secretary shall prepare a report with recommendations for the future role of the National Park Service, if any, with respect to the Heritage Area.(B) REQUIRED ANALYSIS- If the report prepared under subparagraph (A) recommends that Federal funding for the Heritage Area be reauthorized, the report shall include an analysis of--(i) ways in which Federal funding for the Heritage Area may be reduced or eliminated; and(ii) the appropriate time period necessary to achieve the recommended reduction or elimination.(C) SUBMISSION TO CONGRESS- On completion of the report, the Secretary shall submit the report to--(i) the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate; and(ii) the Committee on Natural Resources of the House of Representatives.SEC. 7. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER FEDERAL AGENCIES.(a) In General- Nothing in this Act affects the authority of a Federal agency to provide technical or financial assistance under any other law.(b) Consultation and Coordination- To the maximum extent practicable, the head of any Federal agency planning to conduct activities that may have an impact on the Heritage Area is encouraged to consult and coordinate the activities with the Secretary and the local coordinating entity.(c) Other Federal Agencies- Nothing in this Act--(1) modifies, alters, or amends any laws (including regulations) authorizing a Federal agency to manage Federal land under the jurisdiction of the Federal agency;(2) limits the discretion of a Federal land manager to implement an approved land use plan within the boundaries of the Heritage Area; or(3) modifies, alters, or amends any authorized use of Federal land under the jurisdiction of a Federal agency.SEC. 8. PRIVATE PROPERTY OWNERS AND REGULATORY PROTECTIONS.Nothing in this Act--(1) abridges the rights of any owner of public or private property, including the right to refrain from participating in any plan, project, program, or activity conducted within the Heritage Area;(2) requires any property owner to permit public access (including access by any Federal, tribal, State, or local agency) to the property;(3) modifies any provisions of Federal, tribal, State, or local law with regard to public access to, or use of, private land;(4) alters any land use regulation, approved land use plan, or other regulatory authority of any Federal, tribal, State, or local agency;(5) conveys any land use or other regulatory authority to the local coordinating entity;(6) authorizes or implies the reservation or appropriation of water or water rights;(7) diminishes the authority of the State to manage fish and wildlife, including the regulation of fishing and hunting within the Heritage Area; or(8) creates any liability, or affects any liability under any other law, of any private property owner with respect to any person injured on the private property.SEC. 9. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.(a) In General- There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act $10,000,000, of which not more than $1,000,000 may be made available for any fiscal year.(b) Cost-Sharing Requirement-(1) IN GENERAL- The Federal share of the cost of any activity provided assistance or a grant under this Act shall not exceed 50 percent of the total cost of the activity.(2) FORM OF NON-FEDERAL SHARE- The non-Federal share--(A) shall be from non-Federal sources; and(B) may be in the form of in-kind contributions of goods and services fairly valued.SEC. 10. TERMINATION OF AUTHORITY.The authority of the Secretary to provide financial assistance under this Act terminates on the date that is 15 years after the date of enactment of this Act.ENDHOME | ABOUT HCCC | HERITAGE AREA PLANNING PROCESS | GET INVOLVED! | PRESS ROOM | CONTACT US©2008 HAWAII CAPITAL CULTURAL COALITION SITE BY HFA
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