The Pine Tree on Maui, December 11, 2011
I’d been wanting to see something since this summer...... and finally made it. This is it, a baby pine tree. This pine tree is dedicated to the victims of 311 and also symbolizes Maui's support to Japan. Planting Ceremony was held in August with Maui Mayor and Japanese visitors from the devastated area. It is located in Kepaniwai Park, where ethnic buildings and gardens represent immigrants on Maui..... The pine tree is looking down Japanese building and garden.
Below is what the plate says.
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THIS TREE IS DEDICATED TO THE VICTIMS OF MARCH 11, 2011
EARTHQUAKE AND TSUNAMI IN JAPAN
On March 11, 2011, a 9.0-magnitude earthquake struck the Tohoku Region of Japan. The devastating tsunami generated by this earthquake took the lives of more than 20,000 people and caused destruction throughout the region. In Rikuzen-Takata, Iwate Prefecture, the Takata Matsubara forest of more than 70,000 red and black pine trees was destroyed by the tsunami. Remarkably, one lone pine tree survived. As such, the local residents of the area have named this tree, the kiseki no ippon matsu or the "miraculous lone pine". This pine continues to thrive and has become a symbol of hope and perseverance to the victims of the disaster. The matsu or "pine tree", planted here represents the strength and resolve of these affected by this tragedy. This matsu is also symbolic of the strong ties, support, and aloha that the people of Maui County share with the people of Japan.
Dedicated and Planted By the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui
August 6, 2011
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I heard the miraculous pine tree in Rikuzen-Takata is damaged too much to stand any longer. Authorities are coming up with final decision and about to announce it in Japan. It’s sad but we’ll remember the miraculous pine tree. It was amazed us and has been encouraged us so much.
Maui’s pine tree is still a baby. It can’t be seen from a little bit far.... However tall trees behind it look like making nice frame or protecting it. Hope the pine tree’s growth and Japan’s recovery will synchronize.