B on Hawaii

You may have noticed an increase in the awareness of coral reef preservation as of late. Sure, it’s a prevalent subject—one that’s been pertinent here in Hawaii—for a long time. (Duh! We’re surrounded by this living organism.) Yet worldwide, it seems that both conservationists, environmentalists—and now fashionistas—have caught wind of the dire need to protect these colorful outcroppings just beneath the waves.
Recently, we at B on Hawaii had the unique opportunity to speak with two leading advocates of the protection of coral, who together aim to initiate the complete ban of it for use in jewelry and fashion.

We recently heard this statement on the local news: “It’s a lot harder fixing a broken adult than it is educating a receptive child”. While understandably controversial, in essence, it’s true. Steering a child down the right path is the best shot we have at making our future bright and prosperous.

Part of the “magic” of living in (or visiting) Hawaii is the multi-cultural fabric that weaves through each of our communities. On September 25, the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii will honor five members of this community as both significant contributors to Hawaii as well as Japanese icons. The theme is “Kakushin No Tatsujin!

If you’ve never hiked the ahupua`a at Waimea (on O`ahu’s North Shore), then the optimal chance to do so will be August 14, 2010.

If you thought you’d seen it all—in terms of Hollywood’s invasion of Hawai`i—then think again.

It’s high-time for the annual “Duke’s Ukes” contest sponsored by Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach, which features some of the hottest up-and-coming musicians throughout the State of Hawai`i.

Last month, Hilo-based clothing designer Sig Zane unveiled a new line of print designs for his now-famous aloha attire, which strayed from the successful flora he’s stuck to for nearly thirty years.

A few months ago, we opened up the B on Hawaii inbox, and amidst the tide of emails from around the globe found one that caught our attention—from a fella who called himself "The Surfing Swami". Once again, the "B" network proved invaluable; we were quickly swapping stories of global galavanting, while hearing what our enlightened friend was up to in the surfing world... in India.

You've seen them paddling out past the line-ups, off towards the horizon, as if in a trance. Big boys (and girls) on big boards with a long paddle, heaving their way through the chop. It isn't hard to see the allure of stand up paddleboarding; which is probably the reason it's now a global phenomenon.

It ain't no secret that the powers-that-be in Hawai`i don't see the value in giving Hawai`i's youth the best educational opportunities available. So, it falls on parents and communities to push the minds of our keiki.