Re-opening Public Gardens with Caution

Historic photos inform present-day decisions: some carpentry details in the railings were missing in recent years. 2019 repairs restored some details

Since late March, much of our beloved community treasure has been closed. Even Lihiwai Street was off limits to walkers for several weeks.

morning walkers observe social distancing rules (photo credit: Ku`ehu Mauga)

Slowly and carefully, our County is re-opening. There are new rules for volunteers to observe as we once again enter Lili`uokalani Gardens to assist with special projects.

The first volunteer day since March will be Saturday, July 11, under the direction of Fukushima Kenjinkai. Annualy, members gather to clean the large stone lantern gifted by the prefecture of Fukushima in 1968 to celebrate the centennial of Gannenmono (the first organized group of Japanese immigrants). The Tanabata Festival is observed.

The star festival is observed in July or August, depending on the prefecture. Wishes or poetry are written on small pieces of paper and tied to bamboo.

This year, pre-registration is necessary as group size is limited. Other rules in effect through July 31 include: Wearing of masks and observing physical distancing is required. Hand sanitizer will be provided. Sharing of tools will not be allowed. Bring your own tools from home. Also bring your water bottle.

Fukushima Kenjinkai will gather by the large stone lantern on Saturday, July 11, at 8 a.m. Advance registration must be done with Winston Towata. Please contact him at wwtowata@hawaiiantel.net or phone 959-0425.

The result of a year-long joint effort, the Lions Legacy Project was dedicated Friday, May 4 2018

A second volunteer day is set for the following week. East Hawaii Lions will gather at the Lions Legacy Project in the southern shaded corner of the park on Saturday, July 18, from 8 a.m. to noon. Advance registration is necessary. Please contact Clyde Yoshida cjrw100@gmail.com or phone 640-4625 or Melissa Chong easthawaiilions@gmail.com or phone 640-0225.

For more information on Friends of Lili`uokalani Gardens news and calendar events, please use this link to see the June/July 2020 newsletter:

Newsletter June July 2020

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Friends of Lili`uokalani Gardens is a 501(c)3 non-profit. Mailing address is P.O. Box 5147, Hilo HI 96720.