Across the Pacific, ti leaf leis are bestowed on loved ones as they reach life’s milestones. At many birthdays, graduations and weddings on Guam you’ll find those being honored adorned in these ...

KRISTIE AKIN/SPECIAL TO THE STAR Jeanette Vasquez, of Port Hueneme, uses her toes to hold the end of the braided-style ti leaf lei during Saturday's workshop in Ojai. KRISTIE AKIN/SPECIAL TO THE STAR ...

Melody Masoe (from left) hands a bag filled with ti-leaf lei to Vietnam veteran Roy Nakasone and Kaunoa Senior Services Program Assistant Abcde Rosa during the 2022 drive-thru drop-off event. Photo ...

At commencement time, new graduates don their decorated caps and gowns, waving diplomas as they smile for photos. But many graduates also wear lei — made from flowers, candies, or ribbons around their ...