On 22 and 23 February, Mimi and Meph gave talks about Te Puke building and navigation at the Spaulding Wooden Boat Center in Sausalito. Despite the presentations being on weeknights and in an area where there is no lack of choices available to those in search of an evening program, over 40 people attended each one. Besides Terry Causey and others who had joined previous audiences, there were a number of interesting newcomers. Included among these were a director of the San Francisco Maritime Museum, and a naval architect who invited the ladies to make a presentation for his professional association.
A highlight of both talks was an opportunity for audience members to participate in some of the crafts of canoe making. On the first night, soggy coconut husk and beaters were available for those who wanted to try pounding out sennit and making kaha. The second talk ended with sail-weaving and rope making demonstrations, in which people eagerly joined. Especially inspiring was the enthusiasm shown by the naval architect’s small daughter. Whether for mat making or sennit pounding, she was the firstest with the mostest!
24 February found our heroines traveling across the bay to California Maritime Academy in Vallejo for (delicious) lunch with Larry Stevens and an inspection of the exhibits in the Academy’s library and simulation center. According to Larry, Cal Maritime likes having the displays (which were scheduled to last six months, 3 years ago), and is happy to have them remain in place. This means that those of you in the Bay area who have not yet seen them still can do so. If you want to visit the beautiful Cal Maritime campus, it is open to the public, and visitors are welcome.
We were sad to learn of the recent passing of Kimo Campbell, who had been a friend and benefactor of this project. Our aloha and prayers go out to the `ohana of this gracious gentleman. He will be remembered with love and honor.