Astronomy, Parker Ranch to be discussed during Waimea community meeting Thursday

Two distinct past-present-future narratives unique to Waimea and Hawaiʻi Island will headline the Waimea Community Association’s meeting this Thursday.

Dr. Doug Simons, director of the University of Hawaiʻi Institute for Astronomy, will speak first, offering a brief glimpse into the cosmology embedded in the opening lines of the “Kumulipo” (Hawaiian creation chant) and connecting the history of astronomy to the present and its potential future.

Simons will explore the complex history of astronomy, including efforts to diversify the economy following the 1961 Hilo tsunami and the role played by Alika Herring and others in the original Maunakea site surveys. He will also discuss contemporary efforts to prioritize cultural and environmental stewardship and the evolving oversight of the mauna.

“It will be a thoughtful overview of how astronomy got to where it’s at today and the role the community has in the future of Maunakea,” said Waimea Community Association President Mary Beth Laychak.

The new Parker Ranch CEO, Micah Kāne, will then be introduced during the meeting. Although new to the role, he is no newcomer to Waimea, given his prior leadership with the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation and the State Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. He assumed his position full-time at the ranch on Sept. 1.

Kāne will briefly share initial insights on the strategic direction envisioned for Parker Ranch, highlighting priorities for community collaboration and long-term growth.

The town hall will conclude with updates from Waimea Community Policing representatives and the leadership of North Hawaiʻi Hospice. Following the hospice presentation, attendees will be invited to make a tax-deductible donation.

The Waimea Community Association town meeting is free and will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the historic Parker School Theatre on Thursday.

Everyone is invited to participate in person, or to join in virtually via Waimea Community Association’s Facebook page, or YouTube channel. Meetings are recorded and available for viewing later on both Facebook and YouTube. 

Questions are welcome in advance through email waimeacommunityassociation@gmail.com.

For more info about the meeting or the association, visit the Waimea Community Association website, or email Laychak at waimeacommunityassociation@gmail.com.

Membership in the association is not required but is suggested to support the nonprofit organization’s more than 60-year community support mission. Dues paid now through the end of the year will be applied to the 2026 membership.