ABOUT US
Owner and Founder Sarah McLane Bryan has more than 13 years of experience in the field of Geographic Information Systems, 8 years working with conservation and non-profit groups in Hawai‘i and 7 years of specific project management experience.


MAKALI'I - PLEIADES
Makali'i is the Hawaiian name for the Pleiades star cluster. It is also known as the Seven Sisters, Messier Object 45 (or M45) and is found in the constellation Taurus. The appearance of this star cluster at the eastern horizon at sunset in the fall marked the beginning of the Makahiki, or harvest festival.
Makali'i was also the navigator of the canoe of Chief Hawai'iloa, who in one tradition is identified as the discoverer of Hawai'i.1
1. Hawaiian Voyaging Traditions: http://archive.hokulea.com/ike/kalai_waa/makalii.html
THE MAKALI'I
GROUP STORY

MAKALI'I - MAKAHIKI
The rising of the Makali'i star cluster marks the beginning of the Makahiki season, in honor of the god Lono, the god of rain and agriculture. It is a time to celebrate the end of the harvest, when wars and battles were ceased, and sporting games commenced. The word "Makahiki" is translated as "Year" and the Hawaiian year is measured from the rising of the Makali'i star group in the Eastern horizon beginning in mid-November.
A healthy harvest meant survival, just as businesses need good products to be successful. We believe the ideals in the celebrations of the Makahiki and the symbolism of a new "Year" and new beginnings are all things that we bring to our work here at the Makali'i Group.
