The Maui News

Waikapu kalo farmer Bobby Pahia will be the keynote speaker at the inaugural Maui Homestead Summit on Nov. 3. The event will focus on the forms, flavors and spiritual aspects of kalo.

Organizers invite the public, especially Hawaiian homesteaders, to the free event highlighting farming and ranching topics. The summit runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the He Piko No Waiohuli community center, with entertainment and an aha aina, or feast, to follow from 6 to 9 p.m.

As the traditional Makahiki season of peace begins, Pahia will discuss kalo cultivation, varieties and uses, as well as the spirituality of growing and eating kalo, the staple of Hawaiian cuisine. Kalo tastings and huli, or shoots, will be available to take home and plant.

The schedule of speakers will be as follows:

• 9 a.m. — Mae Nakahata and Warren Watanabe of the Maui County Farm Bureau, presenting an agricultural resources workshop.

• 10 a.m. — Puanani Danner, chairwoman of the Sovereign Council of Hawaiian Homestead Associations, discussing the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act federal trust.

• 12 to 1:45 p.m. — Bobby Pahia, president of the Mauna Kahalawai Chapter of Hawaii Farmers Union United, speaking on kalo.

• 2 p.m. — Keanae natives Marc Aquino and Ku’ulei Anakalea DeRego, speaking on “La’au Lapa’au Teas at Makahiki” — healing infusions from backyard herbs to mark the start of Makahiki.

• 3 p.m. — Michael and Kainoa Hudson, speaking on cultivating economic self-sufficiency at Waimea homestead on Hawaii island.

• 4 p.m. — Roy Oliveira, president of Waiehu Kou Phase 3 Association, examining climate change impacts at Waiehu.

• 6 to 9 p.m. — Aha aina featuring entertainment by Halau Kamaluokaleihulu, led by kumu hula Kahulu Maluo and accompanied by Ahumanu musical group.

The summit offers free registration, lunch and dinner. Reservations are required and can be made at paupena.org. He Piko No Waiohuli community center is located at the bottom of Lau’ie Drive at Mile Marker 15 of Kula Highway.

Pa’upena Community Development Corp. and the sovereign council are co-sponsoring the summit.

For more information, visit paupena.org/summit, email paupena.kekoa@gmail.com or call/text 276-2713.