We (faculty and students of our college of Hawaiian language and our laboratory school Ke Kula ‘O Nawahiokalani’opu’u) did an interesting panel at a Kamehameha Schools research conference in Kea’au today. Four people were in a panel discussion regarding their experiences in the Hawaiian medium education programs, which was done completely in Hawaiian. Four faculty members from the college translated their words into English, live, and we used iChat to display what they were saying for the ‘olelo-impared (my term for those who cannot speak or understand Hawaiian). There were a few glitches (font size a bit small and the…
Cork gets dumped upon.
A bit of nasty weather in the place I had hoped to pursue my Ph.d.
Keola Joins A Union.
Something I didn’t think I’d ever say again, but the times they do change. I just joined UHPA (University of Hawai‘i Professional Assembly), the union that represents faculty in the University of Hawai’i system. I was only a union member once before. During my brief career as a member of the Maui Police Department, I was a member of SHOPO (State of Hawai‘i Organization of Police Officers). I don’t have anything against unions in principal, it’s just that both my wife’s and my own families were victims of Hawai’i union thuggery in the 60s and 70s. I’ve watched UHPA during…
Cornish clings to life.
An interesting article from Reuters on the decline of the Cornish language, and how the American TV cartoon “The Simpsons” spurred interest in the language.
ICTM Presentation Proposal Accepted.
I just received confirmation that my proposal to present the research I conducted during the writing of my MA thesis has been accepted by the selection committee of the International Council of Traditional Music World Conference, which will be held in Sheffield, England in August 2005. I’ll be seeking a travel grant from our campus’ Research Council to assist in paying for this trip.
Musicians As Terrorists?
A few weeks ago a plane carrying British/Muslim singer Yusuf Islam (formerly known as Cat Stevens) was diverted, and he was refused entry into the U.S. Yesterday, Irish singer Christy Moore was detained by British authorities and questioned regarding, among other things, the lyrics in some of this songs. No explanation was given to him as to why he was detained. What next, interrogation of Hawaiian performers whose songs advocate Hawaiian sovereignty? Frightening.
No room for Irish language in e-learning?
Riverdeep’s chief executive says that the Irish government needs to plan its e-learning strategy and warned that Irish Gaelic may be left out in the cold. The government, or advocates of the language, to be more accurate. We took the bull by the horns ourselves in this area for Hawaiian language. It’s and incredible opportunity for the language and its speakers if it is made a priority.
Ph.d In Indigenous Language and Cultural Revitalization Approved.
The University of Hawai’i Board of Regents approved in concept establishment of an integrated program at UH-Hilo for a doctorate in Hawaiian and indigenous language and culture revitalization; a certificate in indigenous language and culture revitalization; and a Master of Arts in indigenous language and culture education. While the “in concept” portion of the resolution that passed was not the complete approval to proceed with implementation that we had hoped for, it was a victory and a big step forward. This makes my own Ph.d. search much more interesting. Staying at home and pursuing this Ph.d. would be much more…
Grammy Nomination Ballots Out.
The Recording Academy has begun the nomination process for the 2005 Grammy Awards. This will be the first time that there will be a Hawaiian Album of the Year Grammy, and I’ll proudly cast my ballot in this and a few other categories. Among the more notable nominees are Keali’i Reichel (“Ke’alaokamaile”), The Brothers Cazimero (“Some Call It Aloha… Don’t Tell”), Kimo Alama Keaulana and Lei Hulu (“Hula Lives”), Ho’okena (“Cool Elevation”), Darlene Ahuna (“Bridge Between Generations”) and Na Palapalai (“Ke ‘Ala Beauty”). My post on NahenaheNet has full details.
Doc Searls: Why Podcasting Isn’t Radio.
Doc comments on Chris Parillo’s explanation of podcasting. I still haven’t listened to Chris’ program yet (being saddled with a 56k connection at the moment). I think there is a bit more to this than Doc is touching on. Way back, nearly all radio was completely live – peformers, advertisting and entertainment. Later, and this continues today, it was a combination of live (DJs) and pre-recorded (records, tapes, CDs and today recordings stored on computer). Some Internet radio used this later format, and some went to completely prerecorded, including one of my favorites, LiveIreland.com. None of their shows are live,…