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The Honolulu Advertiser
Updated at 3:43 p.m., Friday, May 1, 2009

Makaha farm's open house continues despite fires, theft

Advertiser staff

Hoa 'Aina O Makaha and Makaha Elementary School will host their annual Farm Open House from 2 to 5 p.m. tomorrow to celebrate the achievements of their students.

The open house will also celebrate the rebirth of Hale Haumana, which was recently set on fire for the third time.

The children of Makaha, though upset by the fires, have persisted without question or hesitation to rebuild the hale.

Students and teachers from Wai'anae High School and Makaha Elementary, young people from MA`O Organic Farms and other community members have raised funds for the rebuilding effort.

Singer Jack Johnson, a major supporter of the farm, plans to attend the event.

"Hoa 'Aina O Makaha plays a vital role in our state by exposing children to values such as malama 'aina, sustainability, and growing your own healthy foods," said Wai'anae Rep. Maile Shimabukuro.

Shimabukuro urges everyone to come and enjoy the day and support "one of the great farms in Hawaii that educate our children and help us to lead a healthier lifestyle."

Donations to replace the tools and livestock stolen from the hale when it was burned, and to support the farm, can be sent to: Hoa 'Aina O Makaha, 84-766 Lahaina St., Wai'anae, HI 96792. Donations are tax-deductible.

More information: www.hoa-aina.org or e-mail contact@hoa-aina.org.