Hawaii FYI

Wailuku's best kept secret ... Old Wailuku Inn

2011-11-14T16:13:00.001-10:00

Old Wailuku Inn at Ulupono is a 10-room bed and breakfast that is one of Maui's best kept secrets ... but it deserves to be in the limelight.

I spent a night (not nearly long enough) at the historic home recently. The inn has been beautifully restored, but with amenities and modern conveniences that many of today's travelers expect.

According to the website ... http://www.mauiinn.com/ ... the home was built by a wealthy island banker as a wedding gift for his daughter-in-law. The overall theme of the inn and its impeccably landscaped grounds pay tribute to Hawai'i's poet laureate of the 1920's and '30s, Don Blanding. Each of te ten distinctive guest rooms is dedicated to one of the flowers in his "Old Hawaiian Garden". Hawaiian quilts, in the design of each room's flower, set each room apart.

I got the nicely appointed Puakenikeni room, a ground-level unit that is handicap accessible - which meant that my shower was huge! All photos were taken by me except for the room shot below - which is from the website - since my photos don't do it justice.

Staying at Old Wailuku Inn is great. It's near the airport and in close proximity to the towns of Wailuku and Kahului. The Inn offers free Wi-Fi, free on-site parking and no resort fees. It comes with daily breakfast and, they serve a different hearty gourmet breakfast each day. The morning that I was there, we had the Frittata of Garden Vegetables with five cheeses, served with polenta and marinara sauce (see below) ... after the selection of island fruits), juice, coffee and tea.

Innkeepers Janice and Tom Fairbanks were born and raised in the Islands and their understanding of old Hawai‘i’s charm is second nature.

Here are a few more photos that I took.

The Breakfast Room

Exterior of the main building

Living Room in the main building

One of the outdoor sitting areas

The parking area

Above is the only signage you will find of Old Wailuku Inn.

Rates are under $200 per night, plus taxes. Check the website for specials.

Phone: 808-244-5897 Toll Free: 800-305-4899
Fax: 808-242-9600
Email: info@mauiinn.com

Address: 2199 Kaho'okele Street Wailuku, Maui, Hawai'i 96793

Streets of Asia event at The Modern Honolulu

2011-09-30T10:06:00.000-10:00

Just a few photos of the kickoff event for the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival at The Modern Honolulu.

Above - The food booths, 'living' statue, people grazing ... before nightfall

Taiko performance

Chef Morimoto

For more photos - including great food shots, checkout the following post by Ed Morita ...
http://www.nonstophonolulu.com/blogs/party-pics-streets-of-asia/

MAUI CELEBRATES HAWAI‘I’S ICONIC ALFRED SHAHEEN FROM FABRIC TO FASHION

2011-08-27T10:03:00.000-10:00

Exhibit Showcases Alfred Shaheen’s Fusion Fashion Legacy (Sept 7 - Oct 29)

Hawaii's Alfred Shaheen: Fabric to Fashion, a new exhibition opening at Maui Arts & Cultural Center’s Schaefer International Gallery on Wednesday, September 7, 2011, is a celebration of the legacy of textile designer and master fabric printer Alfred Shaheen, the origins of the Hawaiian aloha print and the fusion fashion aesthetic it spawned. This is the first major retrospective exhibition of Hawaiian textiles and aloha wear manufactured by Alfred Shaheen on the island of O‘ahu over four decades. It will run through October 29.

Alfred Shaheen wed technological innovation to socially responsible business practices in the service of revitalizing Pacific Island and Asian textile traditions to forge a fusion fashion design aesthetic now recognized worldwide. The designs are a visual marker-- not only of Hawai‘i's multi-ethnic culture but of a West Coast American lifestyle that is informal, environmentally aware and multi-cultural. A Lebanese immigrant/engineer, Shaheen pioneered a silk-screening method and professionally trained his employees, who were Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese and other ethnicities, as his City of Craftsmen, to create a new design aesthetic.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a comprehensive collection of vintage Shaheen apparel and fabric. The exhibit will certainly have a seductive appeal for islanders who remember wearing Shaheen and spark a new interest and appreciation for others. His apparel designs brought an authenticity to the influence of the ethnic design and put Hawai‘i on the international fashion map," said Neida Bangerter, Schaefer International Gallery Director at Maui Arts & Cultural Center.

Hawai‘i's Alfred Shaheen: Fabric to Fashion is co-curated by San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles Curator Deborah Corsini and Hawaiian textile scholar, Linda Arthur Bradley, PhD with exhibit design by Gallery Director Neida Bangerter, and will feature over 100 objects drawn from the collection of Camille Shaheen Tunberg, Alfred Shaheen's daughter. Stunning yardage representing the textile designs Shaheen produced and key examples of the men's, women's and children's garments that visually conjure Hawai‘i's complex cultural history will be on display. In addition to textiles, the exhibit will showcase archival photos and ads that illuminate how the textiles and garments were designed, manufactured and marketed.

Dr. Linda Arthur Bradley explained, "Hawaiian textile art, especially designs from the 1940s and 50s, have a quality unsurpassed in other decades. Shaheen championed the idea of using Hawaiian textile art as a means of expressing ethnicity and, as an innovative businessman, employed artists as salaried employees and was the first to use modern fashion promotion and marketing on the islands."

Co-curator Deborah Corsini added, "Shaheen's designs are an exuberant profusion of color, pattern and sophisticated compositions which capture the lushness of a tropical climate and the spirit of exotic cultures of the Pacific islands."

On Sunday, September 4, informative lectures on the exhibit will be presented by co-curators, Dr. Linda Bradley and Deborah Corsini, from 2 to 4 pm in the Alexa Higashi Meeting Room followed by an opening reception in the gallery.

Dr. Bradley, who is Professor of Apparel Merchandising, Design and Textiles at Washington State University, will discuss "The East Met the West in Hawai‘i: Cultural Influence in Alfred Shaheen’s Ethnic Textile Designs." Ms. Corsini, Museum Curator, will present "Exhibition Highlights: The San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles" which features different exhibitions drawn from the museum's permanent collection as well as some of its curated exhibitions.

Schaefer International Gallery is open Wednesday – Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm, before Castle Theater shows and during intermission; admission is always free. For more information on the Shaheen exhibit, contact Gallery Director Neida Bangerter at 808-243-4288 or neida@mauiarts.org.

As a special event to commemorate the exhibition, Maui Arts & Cultural Center will host Couture Hawai‘i Fashion Show on Saturday, September 3, beginning at 6 pm in the Yokouchi Pavilion Courtyard. This runway event will showcase the latest collections of aloha wear and couture apparel from well-known Hawai‘i designers, including Maggie Coulombe from Maui, Bernard Foong of Wailea and Anne Namba from O‘ahu. The show will begin with vintage Shaheen dresses and aloha shirts, and a small student collection from the University of Hawai‘i – Maui College's Couture Club will also be shown. Host for the evening will be Andy South, contemporary fashion designer and Season 8 Finalist on TV’s "Project Runway."

Couture Hawai‘i Fashion Show represents a new facet in the global mix of art offerings at Maui Arts & Cultural Center. Patrons can browse and shop for fashion and accessories made in Hawai‘i, purchase catered appetizers and beverages, then dance to music by DJ CIA during the after-party. Tickets are available at the MACC Box Office for $35 general admission and $100 VIP package. Call 808-242-SHOW (7469) or go online to MauiArts.org.

HAWAII'S ALFRED SHAHEEN: FABRIC TO FASHION is organized by San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles, San Jose, California and presented by Maui Arts & Cultural Center in Hawai‘i. The exhibit is made possible through the support of the Alexander & Baldwin Foundation, Matson Navigation Company, WESTAF, Silicon Valley Community Foundation, the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, Arts Council Silicon Valley in partnership with the County of Santa Clara and National Endowment for the Arts, The City of San Jose, the Santa Clara Valley Quilt Association, and private contributions.

“Clip for Classroom” 2011 kick off

2011-08-23T22:36:00.000-10:00

Diamond Bakery’s unique fundraiser earns school supplies for Oahu classrooms and a donation for Aloha United Way

Diamond Bakery (www.diamondbakery.com) recently unveiled their 2011 “Clip for Classroom” program to Leeward District school representatives during a presentation at Kapolei Middle School.

“We’ve partnered with Education Works and Aloha United Way on this great program,” said Brent Kunimoto, Diamond Bakery’s President. “It’s a simple project that encourages students and teachers to clip Diamond Bakery UPC barcodes to redeem for classroom supplies and make a donation to Aloha United Way.”

Who is eligible?

Any accredited public or private school or officially sanctioned school group is eligible to participate. Elementary, middle and high schools in the State of Hawaii all qualify.

How does it work?

From August 1, 2011 to February 28, 2012 (7 months), students and teachers clip UPC barcodes from 6 oz. or larger packages of Diamond Bakery cookies and crackers.

Each UPC barcode collected earns 15 cents for classroom supplies and 10 cents in charitable giving to Aloha United Way. UPC barcodes are redeemed at the Education Works store located at Dole Cannery Shops, 735 Iwilei Road. Once the program period ends and the total number of redeemed UPC barcodes is determined, Diamond Bakery will make a donation to Aloha United Way.

The redemption form is available online at http://diamondbakery.com/promotions/clip-classroom.

Who benefits?

Students and teachers benefit by becoming involved in a fun project that enables them to purchase supplies for their classrooms and make donations to Aloha United Way. Also, classrooms participating in the Bonus Incentive can also receive gift cards and class prizes when they collect and redeem 90 UPC barcodes by October 31.

Schools collecting the most UPC codes will be recognized by Aloha United Way for their community support.

Aloha United Way receives 10 cents for each qualifying Diamond Bakery UPC barcode redeemed by classrooms during the promotion period.

“Clip for Classroom” kick off presentations are also scheduled for the Honolulu and Windward Oahu school districts. Qualifying neighbor island schools can receive all of the program information online at http://diamondbakery.com/promotions/clip-classroom.

October 2011 marks Diamond Bakery’s 90th anniversary of making and baking cookies and crackers in Hawaii. “Clip for Classroom” is one example of how the company fulfills their mission of sharing heartwarming aloha.

For more information, visit www.diamondbakery.com or call 847-3551.

Aqua Lotus Honolulu - photo tour

2011-08-12T09:02:00.000-10:00

Took a site tour of the Aqua Lotus Honolulu and the hotel looks great! Here are some of the photos that I took.

Entry to the hotel ...

A couple of lobby views ...

Views of a Diamond Head guest room ...

And a few of the huge penthouse ...

The quality of my photos do not do the rooms justice ... they looked great and, once the renovation that Aqua plans are completed, they will look fabulous. BTW - the restaurant space still looks good too ... cannot wait for it to re-open.

Aqua Lotus Honolulu is a 51-room boutique hotel located on Waikiki's "Gold Coast". It is in easy walking distance to Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, Waikiki Shell, Tennis Courts and more

Biggest Loser (2010 favorite) coming to Maui Marathon

2011-07-25T07:04:00.000-10:00

Fan favorite Ada Wong, from “The Biggest Loser” (2010 television series), is coming to Maui to participate in the September marathon.

“We’re excited to have Ada join us for a great weekend of events,” said Rudy Huber, Maui Marathon Executive Director. “She’s become an inspiration for millions of people and her desire to run the Maui Marathon is perfect for her new outlook.”

When asked in an interview last December, Ada said, “I lost 99 pounds. I want to lose another five or so pounds. More importantly I want to focus on toning up my body a little more and becoming a better athlete. I made the shift from being the overweight girl trying to lose weight to being the girl who wants to be more physically fit.”

A native of California, Ada’s dramatic weight loss was unveiled to TV viewing audiences over the course of many weeks and her transformation was fantastic. She keeps the weight off by working out daily and keeping to 1800 calories a day.

“In The Biggest Loser Marathon, Ada posted the fastest female time of 4:38:48 (a record),” added Huber. Our fastest time for ladies 2:39 but Ada’s got experience under her belt now and she’s a competitor so we’re expecting her to do very well.”

During her visit to Maui for the Maui Marathon, Ada will be speaking at the Expo on Friday from 1:30 – 2:30 pm and she’ll do a brief presentation at 5 pm at the Carbo Lū‘au – both events take place at the Westin Maui Resort & Spa. Ada will also be at a booth on Friday at the Expo and Saturday to chat with runners, fans. Booth times will vary.

41^st Annual Maui Marathon & Half-Marathon

· September 17: Maui Tacos 5K Run and Bubba Gumps Front Street Mile

· September 18: Maui Marathon, Half-Marathon and Warrior Challenge

Registration for the 2011 events is available on line now at http://bit.ly/9tWWzn. The fee also includes a t-shirt for all race finishers.

Maui Marathon is recognized as one of the most scenic courses in USA and the oldest consecutive running marathon in Hawaii. The course is a point-to-point route starting in Kahului and passes sugarcane fields and along the Pacific coastline for over 17 miles. The popular Maui Half-Marathon features a flat, out-and-back course that traces the final 6.55 miles of the marathon course.

For more information about the Maui Marathon, visit http://www.mauimarathonhawaii.com/, email info@mauimarathonhawaii.com or call 808-280-5801.

Factory tour of Diamond Bakery

2011-07-08T17:25:00.001-10:00

Had an opportunity to accompany media on a factory tour of Diamond Bakery in Honolulu. Here are some of the photos I took of the facility.

The flour silo

Hair nets are required of everyone ... workers and visitors

Mixing the cracker dough

Sheets of graham crackers

Crackers moving up the conveyor belt

Cracking the crackerss

The human touch is required to make sure only the best crackers are selected

Stacks of graham crackers

Plastic wrapper for sealing the crackers

Here, individually wrapped soda crackers are checked

A batch of sea animal crackers caught my eye

Here, the sea animal crackers sorted by type

Looking back at the line of ovens baking the crackers and cookies to the exact crispness

Selection of some of the cookies and crackers that are produced at the Diamond Bakery factory

For more information on Diamond Bakery’s full line of products, visit the website at www.diamondbakery.com or call (808) 847-3551.

NOTE: The factory is not open to public tours

Tohoku Hospital in Sendai Beneficiary for Japan Relief Fundraiser aio Announces “With Aloha” Saturday, April 9 Event

2011-04-04T14:43:00.000-10:00

Tohoku University Hospital in Sendai, Japan is the beneficiary of a fundraiser titled “With Aloha” on April 9 (Saturday evening from 5-9 p.m.) at the Pagoda Hotel in Honolulu Pagoda Restaurant and aio are collaborating with local businesses and community groups to raise money for the “Tohoku University Hospital - Japan Relief Fund.”

Sendai is in the Miyagi Prefecture of Japan, and is the largest city in the Tohoku Region. The coastal city has suffered catastrophic damage from the earthquake (9.0 magnitude) and resulting tsunami waves (up to 77 feet) on March 11. The epicenter of the quake was 45 miles east of the Oshika Peninsula of Tohoku. Since the disaster hit, Tohoku University Hospital has been providing food, medicine and comfort items to people in need from the surrounding areas.

“With Aloha” tickets are $50 ($60 at the door). Ticket information is available online:www.withaloha.org.

Twenty-four (24) restaurants are participating, including Le Bistro, Pagoda, Hukilau Honolulu, Honolulu Burger Co., Ryan’s Grill, Kincaid’s, Hy’s Steakhouse, Nalo Farms and Murphy’s Bar and Grill. Anheuser-Busch, Hawaii Nui, Better Brands, Southern Wines, Paradise Beverages and Johnson Brothers are also participating.

Brother Noland, Juke Joint 5PM, Ka‘ala boys, Natural Vibes and others will be performing at the benefit. A crane-making booth, and silent auction are also planned. KCCN (Cox Radio) will broadcast the event live.

Free parking for “With Aloha” will be available at Pacific Guardian Center (corner of Kapi‘olani and Keeaumoku Streets) and HMSA (Keeaumoku Street).

Monetary donations to “Tohoku University Hospital-Japan Relief Fund” can be made online at www.withaloha.org, or can also be mailed to: 1000 Bishop Street, Ste. 610, Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96813. Checks should be made payable to “Tohoku Hospital Japan Relief Fund.”

Diamond Bakery launches line of Hawaiian “All Natural” Crackers

2011-03-22T14:19:00.000-10:00

Diamond Bakery (www.diamondbakery.com), a Hawaii-based cookie and cracker company that has been in business for over 90 years, recently announced the launch of their newest product line of Hawaiian “All Natural” Crackers.

“In a time when consumers are extremely conscious about eating healthier and smarter, we created products that meet their demands,” said Brent Kunimoto, President of Diamond Bakery. “Our new Hawaiian All Natural Crackers have no artificial flavor and use the finest ingredients for an extra hearty crunch.”

Diamond Bakery’s Hawaiian All Natural Crackers are based on the company’s time-tested favorites – some of the recipes have been in used for more than 80 years! The new line will soon be available in California, Colorado and part of the Southwest. The Hawaiian All Natural Cracker line includes:

Hawaiian Sodas - Original

Providing comfort and nourishment to sea-going travelers for decades, Diamond Bakery’s Hawaiian Sodas are the islands’ favorite crackers. Hawaiian sodas are made from the finest local ingredients including organic wheat flour.

Hula Creems - Original

Crunchy and creamy, these crackers are inspired by Hawaii’s famous dance and unique culture. They are made with enriched wheat flour for a natural, mildly sweetened cracker.

Hula Creems - Coconut

Like the Hula Creems, but with Hawaiian harvested coconut added for a tasty difference.

Waimea Wheats - Original

Motivated by the small village of Waimea on the island of Kauai, and its farming and plantation heritage, Waimea Wheats use enriched wheat flour and wheat brand for a thick and hearty cracker that’s good for the soul.

Maui Grahams – Maui Sugar

Like their name implies, Maui Grahams use enriched wheat flour and raw cane sugar that is grown and harvested on the beautiful Valley Island of Maui.

“The one, all important ingredient that never changes is the pure Hawaiian artesian water that we use,” added Kunimoto. “That, coupled with our belief in the human process of hand selecting each cracker or cookie three times, makes Diamond Bakery brand products outstanding.”

Each box of Hawaiian All Natural Crackers includes nutrition facts. For example, three Waimea Wheats have 70 calories (20 calories from fat), total fat 2g, (saturated fat 1g, transfat 0g), cholesterol 0mg, sodium 65mg, total carbohydrates 12g (dietary fiber 1g, sugars 0g) and protein 2g.

Diamond Bakery products are manufactured out of a single facility in Honolulu, Hawaii.

For more information, visit www.diamondbakery.com or call 847-3551.

'Classic Cocktails' menu unveiled at Kauai Beach Resort

2011-03-15T14:25:00.001-10:00

Kaua‘i Beach Resort is introducing a new “Classic Cocktails” menu at Shutters Lounge. To kickoff the new offerings, a ‘pau hana’ is scheduled for Thursday, March 24 and the public is invited to stop by and enjoy the classics.

WHAT: Unveiling of the new “Classic Cocktails” menu

Chandra Lam, Director of Mixology for Southern Wine & Spirits of Hawai‘i is passionate about the business of crafting perfect cocktails. She will be on hand (bio attached) to share her knowledge and answer questions.

Jonah Cummings, guitarist/vocalist, provides entertainment for the evening.

Kaua‘i Beach Resort’s Executive Chef Mark Sassone will be creating specially prepared appetizers to savor with the cocktails.

Classic Cocktails recipes presented include: Classic Gin Martini, General Manager’s Martini, Manhattan Cocktail, Hemingway Daiquiri, Liliko‘i Sidecar and Sidecar (recipes attached).

A lá carte pricing.

WHEN: Thursday, March 24 from 5 – 11 pm

WHERE: Shutters Lounge at Kaua‘i Beach Resort

For more information about Kaua‘i Beach Resort, call 808-245-1955 or visit www.kauaibeachresorthawaii.com.

Prince Kuhio celebration on Kauai, March 19 - 27

2011-02-27T19:19:00.003-10:00

A week of daily events serves up festivities celebrating Hawaiian food, cultural practices, music, dance, history and sports competition in honor of Prince Kuhio's birthday March 19 - 27.

Prince Kuhio, known for dedicating his life to the future of Native Hawaiian people, will be celebrated during a week of events surrounding multiple themes between March 19 and 27 on Kaua`i. Most events lead up to Prince Kuhio's birthday, March 26, a Hawai`i State holiday.

Festivity themes for the Prince Kuhio Celebration surround Hawaiian food, history, music, dance, cultural practices and sports competition.

Food events include a royal Hawaiian dinner and Hawaiian fashion contest, an "island treats" tasting and a lu`au. Events providing historical perspectives consist of "talk story" sessions about salt-making, native flora and fauna, Hawaiian proverbs, ancient practices plus commemorative ceremonies celebrating Prince Kuhio.
Music and dance will be provided through ukulele lessons, slack key guitar entertainment, kahiko (ancient) hula lessons, Hawaiian music, keiki (children's) hula, taiko drummers and a performance by the powerful male pa hula (hula troupe) Na Kane O Keoneloa.
Cultural demonstrations will embrace native Hawaiian arts such as kapa-making, feather weaving, frond weaving nose-flute carving and lei-making.
Sports competitions will include the Prince Kuhio long-distance canoe race and the Prince Kuhio amateur boxing championships.

Top left - Lei-stringing will be taught during cultural demonstrations slated for March 23rd and 26th at the Prince Kuhio Celebration on Kauai. Photo by Margy Parker

Top right - Na Kane O Keoneloa Pa Hula will be performing during the Prince Kuhio Celebration on Kaua`i at the Grand Hyatt Kaua`i Resort and Spa on March 26th: Photo by Anne E. O'Malley

Bottom - The Prince Kuhio Celebration on Kauai will offer hands-on demonstrations of Native Hawaiian cultural practices, such as how to make kapa (tapa). Photo by Margy Parker

Many of these festivities are located at the Grand Hyatt Kaua`i Resort and Spa in Po`ipu. Other event locations will be Kalapaki Beach, Kaua`i Beach Resort, Kaua`i Veterans Memorial Hall, Kukuiula Village, Marriott's Waiohai Beach Resort, National Tropical Botanical Gardens, Plantation Gardens Restaurant, Poipu Beach Park and Prince Kuhio Park.

A complete event schedule is available at http://princekuhio.info.

Many events are free of charge.

Prince Kuhio, in line for succession to the throne before the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown, was famous for his work to perpetuate the Native Hawaiian culture and preserve Native Hawaiian practices. Serving in the U.S. Congress for 10 years, Kuhio led the effort to establish the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act. He was called Ke Ali`i Maka`ianiana (prince of the people).

Honolulu Rail Transit 'Groundbreakers' - photo

2011-02-26T07:44:00.000-10:00

A group of distinguished persons, including Senator Akaka, Senator Inouye and Mayor Carlisle, holding traditional Hawaiian o`o sticks as they prepare to participate in the February 22, 2011 groundbreaking ceremony - a day that was 40+ years in the making.

Ikebana (Japanese art of flower arranging) on display in March - Honolulu Affordable Travel | Examiner.com

2011-01-10T14:50:00.001-10:00

Ikebana (Japanese art of flower arranging) on display in March - Honolulu Affordable Travel | Examiner.com

End of year news from Aqua Hotels & Resorts

2011-01-07T09:43:00.000-10:00

If you are interested to know what they were up to in 2010, click on the following link … http://sandiyaracommunications.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/docs/2010_AQUA_EOY_MKTG_NEWSLETTER_final.5204631.pdf

In the newsletter, you will find:

Aqua introducing new ‘beach boutique’ campaign in 2011
Out and About
2011 News Highlights
Photo gallery of the three hotels added in 2010
New faces at Aqua
What’s new
Holiday food and goods drive
Happy New Year from Aqua’s sales, marketing, revenue and reservations ohana

Bishop Museum Hosts Lunar Eclipse Viewing

2010-12-09T10:13:00.000-10:00

An exciting evening of moon gazing is coming up. You can view it with your own telescope or head over to Bishop Museum and enjoy it others. Should be great!

For the first time in three years, there will be a total eclipse of the moon on Monday, December 20, 2010 from 9:42 p.m. to 10:52 p.m. Hawai‘i Standard Time. The moon will be within the Earth’s inner shadow, which will block most of the sun’s light from hitting it. The moon will be noticeably darker the normal, and will turn a reddish copper color.

The J. Watumull Planetarium at Bishop Museum, in partnership with the Hawaiian Astronomical Society, will host a free eclipse viewing party on the great lawn of the museum from 8:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on December 20th. Volunteers from the Hawaiian Astronomical Society will be on hand with their large telescopes to help people observe the moon in its large, reddish detail.

The viewing event is FREE but interested participants should RSVP at 848-4176.

Other highlights of the evening include:

The large telescope in the Museum’s observatory will be open for moon watching.
Planetarium programs on eclipses. Show times 8:15 p.m., 9:15 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.

NOAA’s Science on a Sphere, the glowing six-foot globe in the planetarium lobby, will be used to project images of the moon, sun and planets.

“This is the most striking astronomy event over Hawai‘i since the 2007 lunar eclipse,” said Mike Shanahan, the Museum’s Director of Education, Exhibits and Planetarium. “The planetarium turns 50 next year and over the decades it has been a go-to site for astronomy in these islands. Thanks to the support of the Museum and of the Hawaiian Astronomical Society, we’ll keep this tradition alive with this viewing party.”

More information about this eclipse is available at the Bishop Museum planetarium homepage:

http://www.bishopmuseum.org/planetarium/skyWatch/2010/dec10.html

Please note only the observatory and planetarium will be open that evening. All Museum galleries will be closed. For information about Bishop Museum, please visit www.bishopmuseum.org or call 847-3511.

Protea ... growing in Kula

2010-11-16T18:05:00.000-10:00

This is what a protea plant looks like. I had never seen one before I visited Paradise Flower Farms in Kula, Maui.

Visual tour of Paradise Flower Farms in Kula, Maui

2010-11-08T18:28:00.000-10:00

The very best way to take a tour of a working flower farm is to walk throughout the farm with the owner / grower but, when that's not possible, another good way to do it is by looking at a photo gallery.

I had the chance to do the walking tour this weekend with Teena Rasmussen, half of the Paradise Flower Farms team and am sharing the photos I took during the tour.

Her farm is located in Kula, on the slopes of Mt. Haleakala on the island of Maui. This for me was a huge plus because the air is much cooler in Kula than is it at sea level so taking the walking tour was a delight. The photo here shows the beautiful view that one sees from the farm. The high elevation allows for sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and town below.

The family-owned business was established in 1980, just about 30 years ago. Owners and Maui residents Craig and Teena operate the farm 6 days a week and employ about 22 people, including their two daughters.

Here are two of the ladies sewing the fresh flower lei that are destined for Maui shops and stores.

Paradise Flower Farms specialize in fresh cut flowers and ready-made flower lei.

The 50-acre farm is the largest flower lei farm in the State of Hawaii, producing approx 7 million carnations, tuber rose, plumeria and other lei flowers each year.

In talking with Tina, she mentioned that there are always inquiries about a tour of their farm and recently, she and Craig have been talking about putting together a ‘growers’ tour for residents and visitors. However, that may not happen for some months to come so until the details are finalized, please visit the photo gallery for the pictorial tour of Paradise Flower Farms that follows.

Bunches of cut flowers to be used for bouquets and arrangements

Protea start to bloom

Rows of roses

Beds of protea plants

Carnations growing under shade

Closer look at the carnation beds

One of Paradise Flower Farms trucks ready to deliver flowers and lei

Paradise Flower Farms specializes in fresh cut flowers and ready-made lei for residents of Maui and Hawaii, but, they also ship fresh flower lei, lei making supplies and flower gift boxes throughout the US and Canada.

For more information, visit www/paradiseflowers.com.

Diamond Bakery to launch “Kimo’s On The Go” Ocean Care Program with mascots “Kimo” the Dolphin and “Olina” the Octopus

2010-09-23T20:15:00.000-10:00

Hawaii's Diamond Bakery (www.diamondbakery.com) announced the October 1, 2010 launch of “Kimo’s On The Go” – Diamond Bakery’s Ocean Care Program for school children of all ages.

Diamond Bakery is partnering with Waikiki Aquarium on a program that educates students about the beautiful, yet fragile nature of Hawaii’s ocean. "Kimo’s On The Go” – Ocean Care Program is open to all schools and grade levels and teachers are encouraged to plan a trip to the Waikiki Aquarium with their students this fall.”

How the program works – 5 easy steps:

All classrooms registering with Waikiki Aquarium for a school visit between October 1 and November 30, 2010 will be automatically qualified for “Kimo’s On The Go” – Diamond Bakery’s Ocean Care program. To enter your classrooms into a pool for $100 prize drawing, teachers must finish the following steps:

· Log on to www.diamondbakery.com, and complete the KIMO''S ON THE GO REQUEST form online. You will be asked to provide school and teacher’s name, class information and time & date of your proposed school visit to the Waikiki Aquarium. Upon completion, an email confirmation will be sent to you. Each electronic request should be submitted only once per clssroom.

· Program mascots Kimo (right) and/or Olina* (left) will make an appearance during each school visit, greet the class, hand out snacks and take photos with the students.

· When the school tour has successfully been completed, the class must share with Diamond Bakery, photos and a one-page (or longer) summary of their aquarium visit to be eligible for the $100 prize drawing (up to a maximum of 20 classrooms).

· The collection of writings, illustrations and photos will be assembled and printed as part of Diamond Bakery’s Kimo’s On The Go Initiatives’ collection. Diamond Bakery will provide 20 FREE printed books to the students to take home or to use as a fundraising opportunity. Kimo and/or Olina will drop off the books for a book signing party to reward and congratulate the class for finishing their Ocean Care program.

· All visits to the Waikiki Aquarium must be completed by November 30, 2010.

* Kimo the dolphin and Olina the Octopus are two shapes that Diamond Bakery uses to make its Hawaiian Animal Cookies. They are the inspiration for Diamond Bakery’s commitment to save Hawaii’s Reef. And now the company thinks the world is ready to meet them in real life --- newly revealed mascots Kimo and Olina, for its Ocean Care campaign.

Dianond Bakery is providing cash and printed books as an incentive to Hawaii classes for participating in the program, our goal is to advance students’ understanding and aloha for Hawaii's ocean.

Diamond Bakery is donating the profits from sales of Hawaiian Sea Animal cookies to fund this worthwhile program. A check for $3,000 will be presented to Waikiki Aquarium for their school educational programs.

“Kimo’s On The Go” is the next chapter in Diamond Bakery’s Ocean Care Program that kicked off in 2008. The program is part of the company’s mission to “share heartwarming aloha” with the world.

For more information, visit www.diamondbakery.com or call 847-3551.

Sarento's Top of the "I"

2010-09-20T20:35:00.002-10:00

On the heels of the Hawaii Five-0 premiere, I had an opportunity to dine at Sarento's Top of the "I" restaurant ... located, where else, but at the top of the Ilikai Hotel & Suites ... of the original Hawaii Five-0 fame.

The restaurant has its own elevator and the ride up gives you a wonderful view of the yacht harbor, Waikiki and west Oahu.

We had a breath-taking view from our table that was very similar to this.

Here's what the website says about the restaurant: With breathtaking views of Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach and Honolulu's famous skyline, Sarento's brings a bit of Italy to Hawaii with style. Old country warmth, hospitality and live piano music are part of the atmosphere that makes this fine dining establishment one of Hawaii's most celebrated. The casual elegance yet superior service coupled with the outstanding culinary offerings has earned Sarento's numerous accolades from the community. Beautiful private dining rooms are available for groups up to 36.

The appetizers we had were delicious and included:

1) Bocconcini - Mouthfuls of Bufala Mozzarella wrapped in speck and grilled. Served with grilled Kamuela Roma tomatoes. Finished with a baby arugula salad tossed in a lemon-truffle vinaigrette.

2) Sarento's Smoked Salmon - Bermuda onion creme fraiche wrapped with smoked salmon and layered with crispy russett potato chips, Avruga caviar, and Maui onion shavings.

3) Carpaccio del Giorno - Blackened Ahi sashimi served over a basil citronette. Accompanied by an avocado/Maryland blue lump crab tower.

For dinner, we shared the Sweet Tiger Shrimp Entree. Grilled Tiger Shrimp served scampi style with a sautee of white wine, lemon, garlic, shiitake mushrooms, sun-dried & fresh tomatoes.

As you can see, I almost forgot to take a photo of this fabulous meal.

And, for dessert, Sarento's General Manager Adam Miller prepared Strawberries Panzini - local strawberries flambeed with Grand Marnier, Blue Curacao and 151. Drizzled in caramel and chocolate and served with the accompaniment of Devonshire cream, dark chocolate, and Maui brown sugar.

Adam did it at the table and this single photo does not do it justice because the picture I took of the flambe did not turn out.

Valet Service is available at the front entrance Porte Cochere of the Ilikai Hotel. Self-parking is also available in the hotel parking lot and in the Marina Parking on Hobron Lane. With Validation, the cost is: Valet: $2.00 per hour, Self Parking: $2.00 per hour

Dinner: Nightly 5:15 pm to 10pm
Lounge: Nightly 5pm to 12am
Happy Hour: Nightly 5pm to 7pm ... Half off well drinks and special priced appetizers.

For more information about Sarento's Top of the "I", visit http://www.tristarrestaurants.com/sarentos_top_of_i/

Attn. Seattle ... fabulous island-style concert happening on 9/27

2010-09-16T14:17:00.000-10:00

As part of Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau's Perfect Moments campaign, they are sharing the aloha spirit with Seattlelites with month-long consumer events showcasing the music, dance, flavors, and culture of Hawaii.

HVCB is hosting several concerts by renowned Hawaiian musicians at The Triple Door in downtown Seattle. On Monday, Sept. 27, Brother Noland will be performing. HVCB is offering a $5 off special on Twitter to the first 100 people who use the promo code “perfect moments” to purchase a ticket by phone or at The Triple Door box office. Non-Twitter users are welcome to use the code as well. More detailed information about the concert and promotion are in the emails below.

Link to purchase tickets is - http://bit.ly/c2JeXt
Mountain Apple Company has also created a special widget where people can download free Brother Noland music. This is to also promote his show on the 27th. Feel free to share this one as you see fit too.
http://www.mountainapplecompany.com/seattle/

Preview of the new Scion "iQ" with photo gallery - Honolulu Transportation | Examiner.com

2010-09-13T08:23:00.000-10:00

Preview of the new Scion "iQ" with photo gallery - Honolulu Transportation | Examiner.com

Kauai Mokihana Festival, September 19 - 25

2010-09-10T20:32:00.001-10:00

A week-long Hawaiian cultural festival ... come on down.

Photos by Joe Olivas.

Paesano Ristorante Italiano - photo gallery

2010-09-05T22:21:00.004-10:00

Had a chance to check out Paesano at Waimalu Plaza for the second time recently and this time ... I had my camera.

The menu is (I’m told by the waiter) identical to Assagio’s. Someone else told me that a while back, the owners of Assagio split up and one partner opened Paesano and the other opened Verbgano, so the food was good here.

For starters, we tried the Paesano Salad … almost large enough to be considered a meal

And Sweet Broccoli Sauté (oops ... one broccoli missing)

Entrees were Linguine with Garlic Clam Sauce

Chicken Alle Saltimbocco

And Rigatoni Arabiata

Paesano has lots of seats and semi-private areas that are great for small groups.

For the complete dinner menu, click on this link:

http://www.paesanohawaii.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/docs/Dinner.301174936.pdf

The restaurant is located in Waimalu Plaza … and open for lunch and dinner.

Hawaii Five-0 reboot

2010-08-28T17:58:00.001-10:00

The re-boot of Hawaii Five-0 is calling me! How thrilled must the Hawaii Film Office be that not only is the location identified as Hawaii but in case you missed it, it’s in the title?

The trickledown effect must be sending waves of “chicken skin” down the spine of the local economy including the hospitality and airline industries not to mention the locals. Another reason to proclaim, Hawaii No Ka Oi!

How well I remember the Five-0 of old, the golden years 1968 through 1980. In 1968 the state’s first McDonald’s opened in Aina Haina (I know I was there) and Hawaii Five-0 began a 12 year stint that September. How crazy was it when McGarrett would radio that he was traveling on Kalakaua when clearly he was out by Sandy Beach! We locals always had a great chuckle over things like that.

Jack Lord was my homeboy; we lived in the same hood. In 1968 Kahala Mall was still called Waialae Shopping Center later changing to the trendier Kahala Mall in 1969. Lord and his wife Marie could always be found at the mall and the surrounding area. They were always nice and very approachable. Jack Lord says he was frequently asked ‘Do you like Hawaii?’ and his response was always, ‘No, I love Hawaii.’ Such was Lord’s love of the islands that he continued to live in Hawaii long after the series went off the air.

He died in 1998 at his home in Kahala and his wife Marie followed in 2005. The estate of Jack and Marie Lord was divided among twelve Hawaiian nonprofit educational, cultural and medical institutions.

A remembrance of Lord, a bronzed bust, now sits outside the mall where he interacted with local kids like me all those years ago.

Hawaii Five-0 debuts on CBS Monday night, September 20. If you are lucky enough to be in Hawaii on September 13, there will be special screening of the pilot on Waikiki Beach when the sun sets. Cast members will be in attendance so you should get there early to stake out a spot.

So good luck to the new cast and crew of Hawaii Five-0, you have pretty big shoes to fill but the buzz and excitement of your return is palpable. Imua!, and you know I have to say this…Book ‘em, Danno!

Kahala Mall

http://www.kahalamallcenter.com/

Jack Lord bio on Wikipedia

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Lord

CBS – HF-0 site includes videos

http://www.cbs.com/primetime/hawaii_five_0/

Steve McGarrett’s bio

http://www.bigbob.com/five-o/mcgarrett.html

Hawaii Film Office

http://www.hawaiifilmoffice.com/

This was a guest post by friend and fellow blogger Bonnie.

Bonnie Silva is a kamaaina now residing in the Golden State. Like the sirens of the deep, she still hears Hawaii’s call and, from time to time, dispatches posts from across the Pacific. You might want to checkout one of her blogs at http://theliterarygato.blogspot.com/

Photo recap of the Ewa Mission Fair, 8-21-2010

2010-08-24T07:30:00.001-10:00

The Ewa Mission Fair took place on Saturday, August 21. The event was a fundraiser for the church to help with repair of the stained glass windows which seem to have been vandalized but could be due to age.

I grew up in Ewa and attended this church for a number of years. This is also where I got married and where we had our wedding reception (in the Parish Hall where the rummage sale was taking place).

Here are photos of the fair ... they had a plant sale, rummage sale, crafts sale, silent auction, games for kids, entertainment and food / refreshment booth.

If you look closely, you can see a couple of dark spots where the stained glass has been damaged on the front windows.

Photo of the Day ... Hawaii's school kids

2010-08-20T07:28:00.001-10:00

About 400 Manana Elementary School (Pearl City) students during an assembly promoting healthy heart awareness on August 18. On hand were Diamond Bakery, American Heart Assn. of Hawaii, AED Institute of America and volunteers from the three organizations. For more photos, information, visit http://hawaiitravel.hawaiiirl.com/2010/08/diamond-bakery-sharing-the-aloha/

Simple salad recipe, courtesy of Surfing Goat Dairy

2010-08-14T21:36:00.000-10:00

Looking for a quick and easy to make salad to complement your delicious pasta dish? Here’s a recipe from Surfing Goat Dairy that calls for Kula tomatoes and fresh goat cheese that fits the bill.

Maui Caprese

Six vine ripe Kula tomatoes
1/3 cup fresh basil leaves,
Two tablespoons balsamic vinegar
One tablespoon olive oil

This lovely combination of tomato, fresh cheese and basil is an Italian classic. Instead of mozzarella we are using fresh goat cheese which adds a top notch to this appetizer.

Wash the tomatoes (tip: never put tomatoes in the fridge!) and basil and dry them off. Slice the tomatoes horizontally (1/4 inch) and slice the fresh goat cheese biscuits to a similar thickness.

Sprinkle a big white serving plate with salt and fresh cracked/grounded black pepper (use a peppermill! The pepper flavor is so much better) and arrange the tomato slices and goat cheese slices in slightly overlapping circles on that plate. Tear the basil leaves in small pieces, sprinkle them over the tomatoes/cheese circles, drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over it and season with salt and black pepper.

This Caprese is best if served immediately. Bon appetite!

Surfing Goat Dairy | 3651 Omaopio | Kula | HI | 96790

www.surfinggoatdairy.com

August 2010 night skies – the truth about Perseids and Mars

2010-08-05T20:09:00.001-10:00

Something to do for Free ... just look up to the stars at night

August 2010 night skies – the truth about Perseids and Mars

$5.5 million Honolulu Rail station design contract awarded

2010-08-02T07:41:00.000-10:00

$5.5 million Honolulu Rail station design contract awarded

Photo of the day: Alii Kula Lavender

2010-07-31T06:44:00.001-10:00

This is the lavender farm at Alii Kula Lavender, on the slopes of Mt. Haleakala on Maui. Beautiful to see, great place to visit and enjoy lavender tea and scones and a gorgeous location for a wedding / reception. Be sure to check it out on your next visit to Maui. www.aliikulalavender.com

Honolulu Rail Transit to receive $55 million

2010-07-29T10:04:00.000-10:00

Honolulu Rail Transit to receive $55 million

Name the new baby dolphin at Sea Life Park Hawaii

2010-07-26T20:38:00.000-10:00

Name the new baby dolphin at Sea Life Park Hawaii

Princeville Ranch Adventures adds new combination zipline and horseback ride adventure, called the “Ride N’ Glide.”

2010-07-22T22:03:00.000-10:00

With the recent integration of Princeville Ranch Stables into Princeville Ranch Adventures, a unique adventure was created drawing on the popularity of ziplines and horseback riding. The new ‘Ride N' Glide’ gives guests the best of both worlds.

The first of its kind in Hawaii, ‘Ride N' Glide’ includes:

30 minutes on horseback across secluded valleys. Riders soak up stunning mountain and ocean vistas, as guides share ranch and paniolo history.

Guests then dismount and receive zipline instruction, preparing for the first of three fun, fast lines. Stepping off the valley’s edge, they first soar over tree tops to the other side on a 410-foot line.

The second ziplline is a thrilling 560 feet

The third zipline is called the "Big Kahuna," because at 700 feet long, it provides a big thrill

The unique adventure wraps up with another relaxing horseback ride back across the beautiful Princeville Ranch, allowing incredible memories and vistas time to sink in.

Princeville Ranch Adventures offers exclusive ziplining, horseback riding, kayaking and hiking tours on 2,500 acres of a working cattle ranch. These tours access pristine areas otherwise inaccessible to the public, including tropical rainforest, jungle streams and waterfalls. Groups are kept small for everyone’s enjoyment. Guides are entertaining and well educated on Kauai’s history, flora and fauna.

The zipline course features a suspension bridge and the most lines on Kauai (9), including “King Kong,” which spans 1,200 feet across a valley. The ziplines crisscross interior valleys, providing panoramic mountain and ocean views. The Zip N’ Dip Expedition includes a picnic at a fern-lined swimming hole, fed by a mountain stream and deep enough for jumping.

Horseback rides combined with hiking to Kalihiwai Falls are also available, as are Private Horseback Rides, allowing guests to personalize their riding adventure and enjoy a guide’s undivided attention.

The Jungle Valley Adventure offers a combination of hiking, kayaking, ziplining and swimming at a twin waterfall. Finally, the Kalihiwai Falls Hike explores all five tiers of these spectacular falls. Hikers also trek through tropical rainforest and enjoy a 360 degree view of the ocean and mountains from a special look-out point.

For additional information, visit Princeville Ranch Adventures … http://www.adventureskauai.com/

4 top July happenings at Honolulu Academy of Arts

2010-07-17T07:52:00.001-10:00

Third Annual Surf Film Festival
July 9 - July 31, 2010

This year’s surf film festival is our best ever and includes 10 highly anticipated Hawai‘i premieres. The films range from pure action-packed surfing to a look at surfers who devote their lives to making art. We’ve also included HIFF favorite Fiberglass and Megapixels and the vintage gem Innermost Limits of Pure Fun. Special thanks to Eric and Jackie Walden of Chinatown Boardroom, Kona Brewing Company, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, and Oxbow Surf Company.

Interior Landscapes: The Art of the Chinese Snuff Bottle
July 15-October 31, 2010
Gallery 14
Snuff bottles are among the most sumptuous of Chinese decorative arts. In October, the International Chinese Snuff Bottle Society holds its annual convention in Honolulu, and to commemorate the event, the Academy presents an exhibition of nearly 200 jewel-like bottles.

Note: these shuff bottles are from the Crow Museum of Asian Art in Dallas but the collection presented at HAA should be equally fabulous.

ARTafterDARK: La Plaza de Toros
July 30, 6-9 p.m.
ARTafterDARK is in fiesta mode this month with La Plaza de Toros. Central Courtyard will feature Flamenco-inspired music while Luce Pavilion transforms into an Ibiza-style dance club. Look forward to a Spanish-themed art hunt this month!

I watched several Flamenco performances in Madrid and enjoyed myself each time ... so this themed party should be quite fun.

Picturesque Prints: Traditional Japanese Woodblock Art in the 20th Century
Robert F. Lange Foundation Gallery (21) through August 1
Fishermen on the Morigasaki Coast is just one of the stunning scenes captured by artists such as Kawase Hasui in this rotation of woodblock prints in the Robert F. Lange Foundation Gallery

Takahashi Hiroaki (Shôtei) (1871-1945)
Ökawa Shubi no Matsu (The Shubi Pine on the Sumida River)
Japan, Taishô period, c. 1920
Color woodblock print
38.2 x 17.0 cm
Gift of Philip H. Roach, Jr., 1994
(25619)

For more info ...

Honolulu Academy of Arts

900 South Beretania Street

Honolulu, HI 96814

(808) 532-8700

Get directions

Open Tue-Sat 10am-4:30pm; Sun 1pm-5pm

Photo of the day ...

2010-07-11T10:27:00.000-10:00

Took a lot of photos at the Ewa Orchid Show this weekend. Here's one of them,

2010 Ewa Orchid Show - photo gallery

2010-07-10T20:54:00.000-10:00

2010 Ewa Orchid Show - photo gallery

Maui Arts & Cultural Center - Events for JULY 2010

2010-07-05T15:00:00.002-10:00

Maui's fabulous facility for concerts, art and more has a great calendar of events in July.

(MACC presents - see ** asterisk)

(ticket prices will have facility/ticketing fees added)

ONE CAMERON WAY, KAHULUI, HI 96732

Box Office: 808-242-7469, boxoffice@mauiarts.org

**Thursday, July 15

SOLO SESSIONS with

Jake Shimabukuro

McCoy Studio Theater, 7:30 pm

Get a session with Jake Shimabukuro, Hawaii’s ‘ukulele ambassador, unplugged in the intimate McCoy Studio! Jake will take the stage with stories, songs and lightening-fast strumming in his signature ‘ukulele style. Peace, Love & ‘Ukulele

Tickets: $25 and $45 VIP seating with early access to theater and meet-and-greet

Friday, July 16

The Comedy Hui

McCoy Studio Theater, 7 pm

Round two in a monthly series, this island improv comedy show features fast-paced games, wacky characters and even a few musicals. If you liked the TV show, “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” you won’t want to miss this one, which is character based comedy from audience suggestion. Each performance is completely different because each audience co-creates the show with the cast and a live band. Get your giggles on and don’t forget to bring your friends for a night full of laugh-out-loud fun.

Tickets: $22, $11 kids aged 12 & under

July 20 – August 25

John Melville Kelly: The Artist and Printmaker

Exhibit in Schaefer International Gallery

Opening Reception: Saturday, July 17 from 5 to 7 pm

This exhibit is a retrospective of printmaking works by John Kelly, dating back to the height of his popularity in the 1930s and 40s through 1962. Kelly is well known for his idyllic depictions of Native Hawaiian women, fishermen and lei makers from the nostalgic golden era of Hawai‘i. The exhibition will follow major differences in technique and style which reflect the artist’s skills as a printmaker and his ability to capture the island way of life. A small collection of works by his partner and wife, Kate Kelly, will be exhibited for the first time.

Open Tuesday – Saturday, 11 am – 5 pm, FREE admission.

Saturday, July 24

5th Annual Reggae in the Valley

Events Lawn, 5 pm

Featuring Sly Dog, Rushouze, Dani Girl, Maoli, Natural Vibes, Ten Feet, Kolohe Kai and FIJI, this concert will be a night jam-packed with old school and new school local music across the spectrum. Gate opens at 4:30 pm and music starts early. Tickets: $20 in advance, $30 day of show

HAWAII FRESH – DIAMOND BAKERY

2010-06-29T18:01:00.002-10:00

Took a quick tour of the Diamond Bakery factory - a local bakery specializing in crackers and cookies that got its start in 1921. There is a great story about how three friends began the company on their website ... www.diamondbakery.com.

The factory is pretty compact – more or less contained in one warehouse. Diamond Bakery uses continuous feed, direct fired ovens for their popular crackers and cookies but workers hand-select, weigh and pack each box to ensure quality and unbroken product.

Diamond Bakery makes Graham, Salty, Saloon Pilot, Royal Creem (my favorite) and Soda crackers. They also make cookies including the popular animal crackers.

Clockwise from right: Royal Creem Crackers on the assembly line, Royal Creems on the conveyor belt, Diamond Bakery worker checking the crackers and Animal Crackers. These four photos are courtesy of Susan Sunderland.

Diamond Bakery does not sell direct to the public but they are available online and you will find their popular cookies and crackers in most stores and supermarkets.

Top national award goes to Aqua Waikiki Wave hotel housekeeper (+video)

2010-06-28T13:27:00.000-10:00

Top national award goes to Aqua Waikiki Wave hotel housekeeper (+video)

Na Mele Nei

2010-06-23T10:43:00.001-10:00

FREE … The first Sunday Concert promises a delightful afternoon of Hawaiian Music with Hula by the talented OPIHIKAO SERENADERS (they captured fifth place in the 2008 Ka Himeni Ana Contest)

When: Sunday July 4, 2010 @1pm, Free and the public is welcome

Where: Ward Warehouse Amphitheatre

What: Na Mele Nei Concert

Who: The Opihikao Serenaders

Genre: Hawaiian music with hula

Info: 596-8885 NativeBooks Na Mea Hawai‘i, www.nativebookshawaii.com

Sizzling “Hot” Summer Entertainment Lineup at Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa

2010-06-20T19:24:00.000-10:00

Sizzling “Hot” Summer Entertainment Lineup at Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa

Dad’s Special day … part deux

2010-06-15T19:12:00.000-10:00

Dad’s Special day … part deux

Full Moon Magical Cruise on Saturday, June 26

2010-06-14T15:13:00.000-10:00

Here’s a special full moon Maui cruise from Pacific Whale Foundation.

Award-winning professional astronomer Harriet Witt provides expert narration about the Hawaiian night sky aboard the Full Moon Magical Cruise on June 26.. Witt, an international award-winning astronomy writer and speaker, has been giving informative presentations on astronomy in Hawaii since 1990. Don't miss this chance to view the moon and stars with her on a beautiful night at sea!

• The cruise includes hot and cold appetizers (BBQ grilled Maui Cattle Co. beef sticks marinated in teriyaki sauce, Hawaiian-style boneless, skinless chicken strips marinated in special sauce, fresh vegetable crudité platter with Maui onion dip, baked spinach dip with crackers, seasonal assorted island fruits, and a Hawaiian sampler platter) and refreshments. Adults with valid i.d. can enjoy up to 3 alcoholic beverages (Maui Brewing Co. beer, wine, Mai Tais and tropical well drinks) per person.

• 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. from Lahaina Harbor

• For reservations, call (808) 249-8811 ext. 1 or reserve online at http://www.pacificwhale.org/mauiecocruises.

Regular adult rate is $49.95. Discount is available when booking online. Discoujt also available for PWF members.

Available 2010: April 28, May 27, June 26, July 26, August 25, September 23, October 22, November 20 and December 22

What’s happening at the Honolulu Academy of Arts

2010-06-11T08:05:00.002-10:00

If you like to spend time leisurely browsing and studying works of art, here is a calendar of what’s available at the Honolulu Academy of Arts:

From Whistler to Warhol: Modernism on Paper is on-going until July 3

3^rd Annual Chinese Film Festival is on-going until June 30

June-August 2010

Four Thousand Years of Southeast Asian Art
Henry R. Luce Gallery (28)
For its major summer exhibition, the Academy highlights its important but little seen collection of Southeast Asian Art. This exhibition will include approximately 150 works of art from Thailand and Cambodia, many of which have never been displayed at the museum. Visitors will travel through time and regions via three sections: The Neolithic and Bronze ages in Thailand and Cambodia; the Khmer kingdom, which dominated the central Southeast Asian peninsula, including Cambodia and parts of Thailand, from the 9th through the 15th centuries; and the Sukhothai kingdom, generally considered the first major Thai kingdom and the progenitor of the modern Thai state, which flourished from the 13th through the 15th centuries.

This exhibition is a chance for the public to discover a major resource in Hawaii for the study of Southeast Asia, and it promotes a greater awareness and appreciation of Southeast Asian cultural and artistic traditions in the Hawaii community.

July-October 2010

Catharine E.B. Cox Award Exhibition: Sanit Khewhok
John Dominis and Patches Damon Holt Gallery of the Arts of Hawai‘i

As part of its ongoing commitment to the local arts community, the Honolulu Academy of Arts holds about 15 exhibitions a year at the Academy Art Center featuring Hawai‘i talent, the biannual Artists of Hawai‘i juried exhibition and the crown jewel—the Catharine E.B. Cox Award for Excellence in the Visual Arts. This award includes a major site-specific solo exhibition in the museum.

The 2010 award has been granted to Sanit Khewhok. Born in Thailand, Khewhok studied art at Silpakorn University in Bangkok and the Academy of Fine Arts in Rome. After working at Bangkok’s National Gallery as Curator of Modern Art, Khewhok joined The Contemporary Museum as Chief Conservator and Collections Manager in 1988, where he worked until 2008. He has lived in Hawai‘i since 1986.

Honolulu Academy of Arts

900 South Beretania Street
Honolulu, HI 96814
Phone: (808) 532-8700

Hours
Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4:30pm
Sunday 1-5pm
NEW: Second Thursday of every month 10am-9pm

Museum observed holidays
Thanksgiving Day, November 26,2009
Christmas Day, December 25, 2009
New Year's Day, January 1, 2010
Thanksgiving Day, November 25, 2010
Christmas Day, December 25, 2010

Access for patrons in wheelchairs and courtesy parking for disabled persons is available.

Admission
$10 General
$5 Seniors (62+)/Students (12+)/Military (with I.D.)
Free for all Honolulu Academy of Arts members, children 12 and under accompanied by an adult and Hawaii-based teachers. Out-of-state teachers may enter for a discounted rate of $5. (Must show school I.D. or union card at Front Desk.)

Free days
• Bank of Hawaii Sundays: Third Sunday of the month, 11 am-5 pm.
• First Wednesday of every month.
• Military appreciation day: First Sunday of every month free for military personnel and their families. Must show I.D.
Entry to the Academy Shop, the Pavilion Cafe and The Robert Atherton Library is free.

Sizzlin’ choice for Father’s Day – Ruth’s Chris Steak House

2010-06-08T18:24:00.017-10:00

Award-winning Ruth’s Chris Steak House Hawaii is celebrating Father’s Day with a special gift. On June 20, Dads who dine at one of five Ruth’s Chris Steak Houses on Oahu, Maui or Hawaii Island will be eligible to win “A DAY FORE DAD” on their respective island.

• Oahu dads will be eligible to win a Round of Golf for 4 at Ko`Olina Golf Resort and Dinner for 4 at Ruth’s Chris Steak House at Restaurant Row or Waikiki Beach Walk

• Maui dads will be eligible to win a Round of Golf for 4 at Ka`anapali Golf Resort and Dinner for 4 at Ruth’s Chris Steak House at Lahaina Center on Front Street or The Shops at Wailea

• Big Island dads will be eligible to win a Round of Golf for 4 at Waikoloa Golf Resort and Dinner for 4 at Ruth’s Chris Steak House at The Shops at Mauna Lani

All locations will be open from 4 p.m. for family enjoyment.

The entire award-winning Ruth’s Chris menu will be offered all evening long, with its array of tantalizing appetizers, fresh salads, unbeatable steaks, fresh seafood, chicken and chops, signature side dishes and mouthwatering desserts.

Each of the Ruth’s Chris Steak Houses island wide also will be offering chef’s specials, including a Steak and Lobster combination for Father’s Day

Sample items from the menu. Click image to view it full size.

Dads deserve the best so be sure he has a chance to experience fine dining at its prime and follow the sizzle to Ruth’s Chris Steak House. For information, reservations and gift cards, visit www.ruthschris.com.

Oahu-based artists honored at a special exhibit and silent auction at Maui’s NaPua Gallery to benefit the Contemporary Museum in Makiki

2010-06-06T20:35:00.011-10:00

Celebrated Oahu artists are the guests of honor at the NaPua Gallery’s special exhibition and silent auction to benefit The Contemporary Museum in Makiki (Oahu) on Saturday, June 26 at the Grand Wailea on Maui. Several valued pieces have been donated for the auction with all proceeds to benefit Contemporary Museum.

Invited artists for the exhibition include:

· Mark Chai, sculptor

· Chris Campbell, painter

· Diane KW Chen, ceramics

· Yvonne Cheng, painter

· Vicky Chock, ceramics

· John Koga, sculptor

· Wayne Levin, photographer

· Marty Mitsuda, painter

· Rick Mills, glass

· Stephen Niles, painter

· Franco Salmoiraghi, photographer

· Esther Shimazu, ceramics

· Maile Yawata, ceramics

Artwork by several of the invited artists.

NaPua Gallery invites the public to meet the artists and support the silent auction from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Hors d'oeuvres and refreshments will be served. Space is limited. Reservations to attend must be made through 808.874.0510. Attendance is complimentary.

NaPua Gallery facilitates complimentary art tours of the Grand Wailea art collection, the largest corporate art collection in Hawaii, for the public every Tuesdays and Fridays at 10 a.m. Grand Wailea also hosts an Artists in Residence program where the public can browse and purchase through a display of sculptures, paintings, photography, wood turnings and ceramics from select local artists every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Wednesdays, artist Kata Joos is available to paint original, life-size portraits from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

An advocate of the arts, Grand Wailea is providing a special kama’aina rate for the weekend starting at $259 for the travel dates of June 24 – 28. Hawaii residents may take advantage of this limited offer through 808.875.1234 and mentioning special code “P6.”

For more information about NaPua Gallery, visit www.napuagallery.com or call 808.874.0510.

Bon Dance season starts on Saturday, June 5 at Hawaii's Plantation Village

2010-06-04T07:13:00.002-10:00

This is one of my favorite pix, taken in 2005 at Hawaii's Plantation Village, showing various age groups and genders dancing together.

4 pm - Buddhist Ceremony
5 pm - Bon Dancing starts

Food available for sale

Hurricane season in the Pacific is offically underway

2010-06-01T18:45:00.000-10:00

Hurricane season in the Pacific is offically underway

Be prepared. Get your list and items together soon.

National Cemetery of the Pacific - Puowaina

2010-05-31T07:00:00.001-10:00

Looking toward the entrance ... taken on Saturday, May 29, 2010. The lei had not yet been placed on the graves by the Boy Scouts.

6th Annual Waa Kiakahi … happening June 4 – 6, 2010 in Kaanapali, Maui

2010-05-27T19:54:00.000-10:00

6th Annual Waa Kiakahi … happening June 4 – 6, 2010 in Kaanapali, Maui

Lavender Shrimp Scampi on Pasta ... yum

2010-05-20T23:21:00.002-10:00

To order AKL products ... click here http://www.aliikulalavender.com/c-5-culinary.aspx

Pacific Whale Foundation Seeks Submissions for the 2010 Whale Photo Contest

2010-05-15T18:24:00.000-10:00

Pacific Whale Foundation is now accepting entries for the 2009-2010 Whale Photo Contest. Note: All submitted photos must have been taken in Hawaii between November 2009 and June 1, 2010. Photo courtesy Maui Visitors Bureau.

The first place winner will receive a $200 gift certificate from Pacific Whale Foundation. The second and third place winners will receive gift certificates for $150 and $100, respectively. Three honorable mention entries will also be selected, and each will receive $50 gift certificates. The gift certificates may be redeemed for Eco-Adventure cruises, at either of Pacific Whale Foundation’s two retail stores in Maui, or at Pacific Whale Foundation’s online Ocean Store at www.pacificwhale.org.

The deadline for entry is July 31, 2010. Winners will be announced by November 1, 2010. Winners in each category will be contacted directly to notify them that their photos have been selected.

The winning photos, along with the photographers’ names and home towns, will be featured on Pacific Whale Foundation’s website, www.pacificwhale.org, as well as in a press release to go out to the local media and to Pacific Whale Foundation’s thousands of supporters and members worldwide.

To submit your photo, please email it to photocontest@pacificwhale.org. Be sure to title the photo and include your name, address, city, state or country, postal code and phone number with your submission, as well as the date (and, if possible, the Pacific Whale Foundation vessel) on which the photo was taken. Please also include a brief description of the encounter photographed.

You may also mail your photo to:
Whale Photo Contest, Pacific Whale Foundation
300 Ma’alaea Road, Ste. 211
Wailuku, Maui 96793

For more information, please call (808) 249-8811 ext. 1 or email jniles@pacificwhale.org.

To learn more, visit www.pacificwhale.org

Lavender is good for acne-prone skin

2010-05-06T20:48:00.000-10:00

According to Ali‘i Kula Lavender farms on Maui, lavender is an antibiotic and antiseptic.

Lavender Oil is essential for home first-aid kits. In addition to its many healing attributes, it is also helpful when healing acne-prone skin.

Simply soak a cotton ball with witch hazel and add a drop of Lavender Essential Oil and rub it over the troubled area. It’s a natural way to keep the skin clear.

Ali‘i Kula Lavender is located in upcountry Maui.

For more information: http://www.aliikulalavender.com

'Specal Keiki Rodeo' - fundraiser for a good cause

2010-05-03T14:51:00.003-10:00

Special Keiki Rodeo & Horsemanship Competition

Saturday, May 15, 10 am

Waimanalo Polo Field Arena

Outstanding special riders will show the skills they’ve learned on special horses at the Therapeutic Horsemanship of Hawaii’s Special Keiki Rodeo Horsemanship Competition.

Watch classic rodeo events, such as Barrel Racing and Pole Bending as well as events that are special to the riders.

There is no cost to attend.

Pony rides, crafts, games and food will be available for sale. Funds raised will help to support the animals and program.

Therapeutic Horsemanship of Hawaii is a 501(c)(3) organization that provides horseback riding and horsemanship sessions primarily to Hawaii’s special needs population.

For information on sponsorship or the event, visit www.thhwaimanalo.org

Pacific Roller Derby to bout Sonoma and Kauai in Hawaii Kai Double Header

2010-05-01T07:38:00.005-10:00

Short fuse on this action spectator event … it’s for next weekend

Saturday, May 8, 2010
Bout starts 4pm at Kamiloiki Community Park

For this bout … the Pacific All-Stars Travel Team face the Hawaii Wine Country Homewreckers of northern California’s Sonoma County Roller Derby in the Battle of the Pacific Double Header.

The All-Stars are excited to bring mainland roller derby to Oahu as it fosters derby sisterhood across the Pacific and gives local fans a taste of fierce competition.

Derby fans will also get the chance to see two new local teams, Pacific’s Vicious Vixens and neighbor island Kauai’s Wicked Wahine Derby Association bout it out at the roller hockey rink at this double header event.

The Battle of the Pacific takes place on Saturday, May 8, and is a free event that starts promptly at 4pm at the corner of Hawaii Kai Drive and Lunalilo Home Road. Fans are encouraged to bring beach chairs for comfort, as this double header will consist of two full length bouts. For more information on Oahu’s premier roller derby league, visit www.pacificrollerderby.com.

More for Mother’s Day – including Hawaii's favorite funnyman Frank De Lima

2010-04-29T10:06:00.001-10:00

More for Mother’s Day – including Hawaii's favorite funnyman Frank De Lima

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ZAP Grand Tasting at the Hale Koa Hotel

2010-04-25T19:35:00.001-10:00

ZAP Grand Tasting at the Hale Koa Hotel

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News from Nā Hōkū O Hawaiʻi Music Festival

2010-04-24T20:23:00.004-10:00

More than 75 workshops will be offered as part of the first annual Nā Hōkū Hawaiʻi Music Festival scheduled May 27 – 30 at the Hawaiʻi Convention Center. Experts in their respective fields present workshops ranging from Digidesign with Pro Tools to Manufacturers by Taylor Guitars and Hula & Music with Kealiʻi Reichel to Making a CD with Kenneth Makuakāne. Notable out-of-town presenters including David Pack, Cas Haley, Yuna Ito, Taylor Guitars, Roland Keyboards, and Digidesign complement sessions by Hawaiʻi’s top artists, slack key masters, kumu hula, and music industry experts.

“The workshops provide an extraordinary opportunity for the music industry and fans locally, nationally and internationally,” said Dawn Kaniaupio. “Artists will have access to the latest information to expand and improve their careers while music fans meet artists and music industry leaders in an up close-and-personal-setting.”

Out-of-town presenters as of April 5th include:

• Composition: David Pack - Solo Performer, former Front man for Ambrosia, and Grammy-winning Producer David Pack has won international acclaim both for his solo work - with his current CD: "The Secret Of Movin' On"- and his stellar turn as front man for progressive rock/pop group Ambrosia. He is also renowned as a Grammy winning producer for superstars including Wynonna, Phil Collins, Aretha Franklin and Kenny Loggins, and as a music director/producer of global stage events including both of President Clinton's inaugurals. His collected works as a performer and producer have sold over 40 million units worldwide.

• Reggae: Cas Haley - In 2007 Cas Haley was a contestant on the U.S. reality television show Americans Got Talent. Cas amazed the audience in his first performance singing Stingʻs Walking on the Moon, a capella. AGT wasn't his first 'gig', but it did introduce us to Cas. He seems humble, gracious, and talented. Cas released his first album in February 2008. Available through iTunes download, the album became #1 on the iTunes Reggae Charts! Released a month later as a Best Buy exclusive, the album reached #5 in total sales ... and in its first week! Come here how Cas is collaborating with Hawaiʻi artists and how Reggae is just one of many genres he has been described as having fans from.

• Vocal Trainer: Robert Lunte -  Singing isn't all in your head, it is an athletic endeavor that requires the preparation and coordination of your entire body. And while the ha'i (vocal break) in Hawaiian falsetto singing is a beautiful vocal device, there is a beautiful and powerful part of your voice behind it that you can also learn to use. You will learn how to warm-up and train as a vocal athlete, and connect your singing voice from its lowest range to its highest for all styles of singing.

• Yuna Ito: Born September 20, 1983. Born in LA, raised in Hawaiʻi, graduate of McKinley High School. In 2005, she starred as "Reila" in the film "NANA" which is based on this really popular manga(comic) and debuted with the song called "Endless Story" which was a theme song to this movie. This song became a record hit, and in the same year, she received multiple awards. In May 2006, she released a song called "Precious" which was a theme song to another movie called "Limit of Love" and this became another huge hit. In December 2006, she starred in the movie "Nana 2" which was a sequel to "Nana" and sang a theme song again. In January 2007, she released her debut full length album called "Heart" which went on number one on Oricon Chart (which is equivalent of Billboard Chart in Japan) and in spring 2007, she did the first solo concert which was sold out everywhere. Shortly after, she released collaboration tracks with artists such as "Micro" who is a former Def Tech, Kotaro Oshio, a famous acoustic guitarist and Celine Dion. Her second album came out on February 20th called "Wish" and she did the guest appearance for Celine Dion's Japan tour in March. She also was a campaign model for Gap 2009 Winter campaign along with Mira Jovovich, Ashanti and she is about to release another album soon.

• Manufacturer Workshop: Taylor Guitars - The Taylor Guitars line covers a broad spectrum of guitar styles and tonal flavors. Their performance-ready acoustic/electrics, traditional acoustics and nylon-string models offer many different combinations of body shapes, tonewoods and appointments. Their electric models range from the Taylor SolidBody to the incredibly versatile hybrid T5. And if your dream guitar is a beautiful custom Taylor, the Build to Order program won¹t let you down. Come hear from National rep David Kaye what’s in store from Taylor Guitars. Also available in the Manufacturers room throughout the festival will be a Taylor Refresh & Restring Clinic.

• Digidesign: From the largest recording facilities to the smallest bedroom studios, Pro Tools® is the most popular sound creation and production system in the world. Featuring professional hardware and award-winning software that work together with your computer, Pro Tools lets you easily accomplish everything from composing music and recording to editing and mixing sound for broadcast and post production, all within a single environment.

The Pro Tools 101: Introduction to Pro Tools covers basic Pro Tools principles, giving you everything you need to complete a Pro Tools project, from initial set up to final mix down. This course focuses on Pro Tools 8 software and covers a multitude of new functions and feature enhancements. Whether your project involves recording of live instruments, MIDI sequencing of software synthesizers, or audio editing or region looping, this course will give you the basic skills to succeed. Sessions will be conducted by National Rep Andy Cook and will cover 15 hours during the festival a session will be conducting every hour.

The Workshop Schedule and registration are available at: www.nahokufestival.com/subpage.php?page=workshop

The four-day Nā Hōkū O Hawaiʻi Music Festival Schedule of Events: www.nahokufestival.com/subpage.php?page=workshops

Join the Nā Hōkū O Hawaiʻi Music Festival Community and get up-to-the-minute updates on artistsʻ participation, travel packages and registration for the workshops at http://www.nahokufestival.com/

Mother's Day DINNER in Waikiki

2010-04-24T07:05:00.001-10:00

Mother's Day DINNER in Waikiki

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Mother’s Day TEA in Waikiki

2010-04-22T08:23:00.001-10:00

Mother’s Day TEA in Waikiki

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May Day Celebration Concert at Kauai Beach Resort

2010-04-20T14:01:00.001-10:00

May Day Celebration Concert at Kauai Beach Resort

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Long unseen treasures on view at the Honolulu Academy of Arts

2010-04-17T06:52:00.004-10:00

There's always something to pique your interest at the Honolulu Academy of Arts. Set aside a morning or afternoon to leisurely stroll through the galleries to enjoy what's on display and end with a snack or lunch at the Cafe. Here's what's featured now.

Through May 9, 2010
Graphic Cabinet 5: Private and Public Devotion in Medieval Europe
The Honolulu Academy of Arts has a modest yet rich selection of medieval illuminated manuscripts and stained glass and presented is a series of focused exhibitions showcasing highlights from the Academy’s vast and significant collection of work on paper.

Through May 2, 2010
From Whistler to Warhol: Modernism on Paper
Gallery 28: Henry R. Luce Gallery
In an unprecedented move, the Academy presents a major exhibition of 100 masterworks from their modernist holdings, including a number of unpublished and rarely exhibited examples, as well as a selection of important recent acquisitions.

Beginning with the American painter-printmaker James McNeill Whistler, the exhibition traces the history of modernism on paper to show how this medium proved supremely adaptable to the avant-garde spirit of experimentation. On view will be works by Whistler, Camille Pissarro, Edgar Degas, Odilon Redon, Edvard Munch, Paul Gauguin, Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Emile Nolde, Käthe Kollwitz, Max Ernst, Joan Miró, John Marin, Joseph Stella, Edward Hopper, John Sloan, Raphael Soyer, Thomas Hart Benton, Tatanya Grossman, June Wayne, Jasper Johns, Ellsworth Kelly, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Rauschenberg, and Frank Stella.

Through June 27, 2010
Masterpieces from the Richard Lane Collection
Gallery 14
This exhibition presents more than 30 masterpieces of Chinese, Korean, and Japanese painting and a group of Japanese woodblock prints from the Academy’s recently acquired Richard Lane Collection. Included in the show will be one of the earliest paintings so far discovered in the Lane Collection—a Chinese hanging scroll in ink on silk of Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, painted by a Chan (Zen) monk in ca. 1280 A.D. (Yuan dynasty).

May 20 to October 10, 2010
Men in Lace
Gallery 22
The Academy’s incredible textile collection includes more than 300 pieces of European lace, starting with three 16th-century Italian laces. In the 18th century, the demand for very fine lace increased enormously, especially in France. Lace was the perfect accessory in this period of frivolous, rich, precious, and refined living. Sought by kings and courtiers, the aristocracy and the clergy, lace became a symbol of wealth and was omnipresent in the lives of affluent families.

May 20–September 12, 2010
HAA Graphic Cabinet 6: William Blake’s Illustrations to the Book of Job
Gallery 9
This exhibition will present William Blake’s important series of 22 engravings, Illustrations to the Book of Job. A poet, painter, and printmaker of extraordinary vision, Blake is renowned for the mystical complexity and political subtlety of his work, as well as for the intricate relationships he consistently establishes between the images he creates and the texts on which they are based.

Honolulu Academy of Arts

www.honoluluacademy.org

900 South Beretania Street

Honolulu, HI 96814

(808) 532-8700

Hikes into Waimea Valley for all fitness levels

2010-04-05T19:40:00.001-10:00

Good news for hikers of all ability … Waimea Valley, located on O‘ahu across from Waimea Bay, introduced Saturday Valley hikes earlier this year. Hikes range from easy to moderate family hikes to strenuous 5-hour hikes (only on the last Saturday of the month).

The hikes explore stunning views atop ridges, streams, the Waimea Waterfall with guides helping hikers identify native and exotic plants, native fish, rare endemic aquatic moth pupa and the Valley’s indigenous birds.

Children (for all hikes) 15 years of age or younger must be accompanied by an adult.

To participate in the Family Hikes children must be 7 years of age or older. Family Hikes cost $10 per person plus the cost of admission (ranges from $5 - $13) to the Valley. Space is limited to 20 participants and reservations are required.

To participate in the strenuous hikes, the last Saturday of each month, children must be at least 12 years of age. Strenuous hikes cost $15 per person plus the cost of admission (ranges from $5 - $13). A minimum of 5 participants are required for the hike to take place. Please make your reservations no later than the Friday before the Saturday hike.

Registration is at 8:30 am at the Waimea Valley Visitor Center. Hikes start promptly at 9:00 am and end at 12:30 pm (short hikes only). Participants should bring a snack, insect repellent, sunscreen and water. Closed-toe, non-slip hiking shoes are required-without exception.

For more information visit www.waimeavalley.net or call (808) 638-7766.

Romano’s Macaroni Grill Waikoloa starts breakfast service

2010-03-30T21:29:00.005-10:00

Hawaii Island residents and visitors staying in the Kona and Kohala Coast areas have another option for a great breakfast. Romano’s Macaroni Grill in Waikoloa recently began offering a menu of signature breakfast items daily from 8:00am until 11:00am. The restaurant is responding to a growing demand in the area for a quality breakfast at a reasonable price.

The new menu features a variety of items, including two versions of Chef Shane Torres’ Italian twist on scrambled eggs and 3 variations on the frittata, which is a classic Italian open-faced omelet. Breakfast standards like steak and eggs, French toast, and yogurt & granola will also be offered, as well as a list of specialty breakfast cocktails. And, of course, it’s not breakfast in Hawaii without a side order of Spam!

Romano’s Macaroni Grill is conveniently located at the Queens’ Marketplace – 201 Waikoloa Beach Drive in Waikoloa with ample onsite parking.

For more information, please visit http://www.macaronigrill.com.

First Hawaiian International Auto Show continues today and tomorrow

2010-03-27T13:11:00.003-10:00

Looking for something to do this weekend?

Here’s a great event that continues today and tomorrow at the Hawaii Convention Center

FIRST HAWAIIAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
When:               March 26 - 28, 2010
Where:              Hawaii Convention Center
Time:               Saturday, March 27: 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Sunday, March 28: 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Admission: $7.00 (Adults 13 & over)
$4.00 (Children 7 - 12)
FREE (Children 6 & under)

There are hundreds of the newest cars, SUVs, trucks and hybrids housed under one roof.

There are also specialty displays, as well news on the latest automotive technologies and trends.

Representatives from dozens of manufacturers will be on-site to answer your questions and provide up-to-date information. Visit HiAutoShow.com for more information.

Here is a photo of one of the Scion cars that’s on display at the show followed by a list of the modifications that the owner has done:

WickedbB 2005 Scion xB

MODS List

Exterior ( JDM ):

· bB badge

· bB rear step guard

· bB Zenki head lights

· Garson clear side markers

· Garson chrome fender trim

· Topline front face finisher on TCM grill

· Essam wind visors

· Chrome handle overlays

· Red and clear tails

Exterior:

· Red Genie lip kit ( ONLY one on the island )

· One off grill made by eight08customs using 3 different grills: Full bloom type grill/ molded NISH eyelids/ and billet inserts

· Spirit type wing

· Varad scanning red LED lighting kit

· Scionpro chrome hatch handle

Interior ( JDM ):

· bB dash console

· bB floormats

· Garson D.A.D. coasters

· Garson neck pads

· Window curtains

· Crystal A/C knobs

· Bubble shift knob

· Napolex Laylight

· Cargo cover

· Junction Produce Fusa

Interior:

· Custom made black seats with red inserts and Coach trim by Fred’s auto top shop

· Custom matching door panel inserts

· Custom wrapped Coach pillars

· Custom wrapped Coach glove box

· Custom black headliner

· Orataro red VIP front and rear tables

· OBX red pedals

· OEM under dash red lighting kit

· OEM red/black steering wheel

· OEM armrest

· Razo shift knob with custom made matching red insert

· Red dash trim kit

· TRD floor mats

· Dakota Digital guages

Stereo and Ice:

· Panasonic in dash DVD/CD/TV tuner

· 4 Starvision headrest monitors

· Alpine mids and tweeters

· JL Audio 500 x 5 amp

· 2 JL Audio 10 W1s

· Custom sub floor/amp rack/plexi/ and LED lights by Progressive Auto sounds

Engine:

· Tein hood dampers

· AEM cold air intake

· AEM battery tie down

· AEM chrome engine cover

· Polished strut bar

· Under The Hood Inc. mirrors

· Optima battery

· Red wire loom dress up

· Red lighting kit

Rims:

· 18x8/18x8.5 chrome SSR Vienna Krais ( Discontinued ) wrapped in 215x 35 Fusions

Suspension:

· One ton garage 10mm spacers

· Evolved concepts -3 degree camber shims

Air suspension:

· Easystreet struts with Cusco camber plates

· Slam specialties rear bags with FBI brackets

· Viair 420 compressor

· 3 gallon alluminum tank

· SVC valves

Exhaust:

· Strup axleback

Nā Hōkū O Hawai’i Music Festival Scheduled for May 27 – 30.

2010-03-26T19:20:00.007-10:00

Nā Hōkū O Hawai’i Music Festival Scheduled for May 27 – 30.

New event which promotes the power of music.

The first annual Nā Hōkū O Hawai’i Music Festival will fill the Hawai’i Convention Center and locations throughout Waikīkī in late May. The ambitious four-day music festival develops and augments a living knowledge of Hawaiian music, arts, and crafts through workshops, demonstrations, exhibitions and performances of the highest quality and authenticity.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Thursday, May 27
• 10 am – 5 pm Nā Hōkū O Hawaiʻi Music Festival Registration
                       Festival Lounge & Official Festival Merchandise Store Opens
• 5 pm – 8 pm Nā Hōkū O Hawaiʻi Music Festival Opening Reception at Hawaiʻi Convention Center

Friday, May 28
• 8 am - 5 pm Vendors & exhibitors, general sessions, and workshops
                       Workshops include slack key, haku mele, composition, musical arrangements, meet the
                       artists, producing a CD, slam poetry, chant, music and healing, artists sessions, panels and more

• 6 pm – 8 pm Live entertainment on 25 stages in Waikīkī
                       Stages include:
                       • Outrigger & OHANA Properties
                       • Starwood Hotels Waikīkī properties.
                       • Hilton Hawaiian Village
                       • Aston Waikikī Beach Hotel
                       • Halekulani Hotel
                       • Royal Hawaiian Center
                       • Kuhio Beach Hula Mound
                       • Chais

Saturday, March 29
• 8 am – 5 pm Vendors & exhibitors, general sessions, and workshops
• 11:30 am – 2 pm HARA Lifetime Achievement Awards Luncheon
• 6 pm – 8 pm Entertainment on 25 stages in Waikīkī

Sunday, May 30
• 8:30 am – noon Coffee Hour, networking, vendors & exhibitors (all day), general sessions, and workshops
• 5:30 pm – 7 pm Pre-Nā Hōkū Hanohano Pupu Party
• 6:30 pm – 7 pm VIP Red Carpet Arrivals
• 7:30 pm – 10 pm Hawaiʻi Academy of Recording Arts Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
• 10 pm – midnight After Party

TICKETS:
Tickets are on sale at www.nahokufestival.com.

Log in and hit BUY TICKETS. Tickets are sold individually for the awards shows, workshops and parties; the best values are the All Events Pass and the Nā Hōkū O Hawai’i Festival VIP Package.

The All Events Pass is $525 now through March 31, after April 1 is $555.
Additional ticket options are also available.

Join the Nā Hōkū O Hawaiʻi Music Festival Community and get up-to-the-minute updates and information on artistsʻ participation, tickets, travel packages, sponsors, and workshops at www.nahokufestival.com.

2nd Annual Filipino Film Fesitival

2010-03-25T21:28:00.014-10:00

Hawaii is a melting pot of many different ethnicities and Filipinos are one of the groups that continue to grow in numbers. Originally emigrating to work on the sugar plantations, many are still coming to Hawaii seeking a better life.

The new census may reveal some interesting numbers but, as of 1990, there were 168,682 Filipinos residing in Hawaii, about one-sixth of the total population.

Targeting this group, The Doris Duke Theatre is hosting the 2ND ANNUAL FILIPINO FILM FESTIVAL – sponsored by the Philippine Medical Association of Hawaii. Of course, you don’t need to speak and understand the language or be of Filipino ancestry to enjoy these great films ... they're subtitled.

The line-up of includes:

HAWAII PREMIERE: LAST SUPPER NO. 3

Last Supper No. 3 was the winner of the Best Film award at the 2009 Cinemalaya Film Festival, the Philippines’ Oscars.
2009, 83 mins.
Tagalog with English subtitles
• April 20 & 21 at 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m.

Based on a true story, this film is a hilarious satire about Wilson Nañawa’s nightmarish but hilarious odyssey through the Philippines’ corrupt legal system.

HAWAII PREMIERE: COLORUM
2009, 110 mins.
Tagalog with English subtitles
• April 22 & April 23 at 1 p.m., 4 p.m,. 7:30 p.m.

After 30 years in prison, the aging Pedro re-enters the world and encounters Simon, a young, ambitious policeman, who earns extra cash as the driver of a colorum FX, an illegal taxi owned by his godfather.

DINIG SANA KITA (IF I KNEW WHAT YOU SAID)
2009, 88 mins.
Tagalog with English subtitles
• April 24 & 25 at 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m.

A powerfully charming indie teen romance about wealthy, rebellious teenager Niña and hearing-impaired orphan Kiko.

HAWAII PREMIERE: CONCERTO
2008, 114 mins.
• April 27 at 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m.

Set in Davao during the Japanese Occupation of the Philippines, this film is based on the historical events written in the diary of Lt. Col. Anastacio Campo, Diary of the War: Memoirs of WWII.

HAWAII PREMIERE: BIGTIME
2005, 105 mins.
• April 28 at 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m.

In this clever, fast-paced film two small-time criminals attempt to kidnap a teenage girl who dreams of stardom, while her mother tries to marry her off to a local politician.

DED NA SI LOLO (GRANDPA IS DEAD)
2009, 90 mins
Tagalog with English subtitles
• April 29 and 30 at 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m.

A family is forced to reunite and put up with each other during the wake for their dead father in this brilliantly cathartic, entertaining comedy, which was a hit at the 2009 Hawaii International Film Festival.

About the theater: The Doris Duke Theatre at the Honolulu Academy of Arts is a popular venue for independent, documentary, and world film and video. The theater has a seating capacity of 280, enhanced Dolby sound systems, Harkness Hall projection screen, Meyers Concert Sound System for musical performances, elevated stage, air conditioning, and complete audio and video facilities. The entrance is located at the rear of the museum on Kinau Street.

The box office is located at the museum's main entrance
Monday 10 am-3 pm
Tuesday - Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Sunday 1-4:30 pm

Ticket information ... click here

For more information, call (808) 532-8700

Where to go to celebrate Easter?

2010-03-25T14:57:00.001-10:00

Where to go to celebrate Easter?

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3D shows at Imiloa Astronomy Center starts March 27

2010-03-23T00:27:00.001-10:00

3D shows at Imiloa Astronomy Center starts March 27

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Catalaya orchid photo for your enjoyment

2010-03-19T15:34:00.008-10:00

Hawaii is the perfect place to raise orchids. The catalaya thrives in bright filtered light … not direct sunlight.

I took this photo at the Ewa Orchid and Plant Show in 2009. I just love the lime green color.

Whale photo safari cruise on March 21 and April 3

2010-03-17T22:00:00.001-10:00

Whale photo safari cruise on March 21 and April 3

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The wonders of (Maui's) Lavender

2010-03-16T19:55:00.006-10:00

Nestled on the slopes of Maui’s Mt. Haleakala at about the 4,000 ft. level is where you will find Alii Kula Lavender – a farm with about 55,000 lavender plants and more. Created by Mr. Alii Chang, Alii Kula Lavender (AKL) offers the only Lavender Lifestyle experience on Maui including the best lavender scones and lavender tea.

AKL offers daily tours of the farm, wonderful lavender products for sale in the gift shop (including the tea and scone mix) and a gorgeous location for weddings and receptions. I attended a wedding reception there a few years ago and, although it did rain, it was still very, very beautiful.

Lavender, known to have a regulating effect on the nervous system, soothes, calms and de-stresses.

Here’s a great lavender tip from AKL:

Mix a few drops of Lavender Essential in a medium-size bowl of water. Soak a wash cloth in it then wring it out. Heat the washcloth in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, remove and apply to an inflamed area for soothing relief. The washcloth can also be placed in the refrigerator until cool and placed on the forehead to relieve a headache. Placing a dab of Lavender Essential oil directly to the temple helps ease migraines.

Lavender Essential Oil is available at Alii Kula Lavender.
Phone: 808-878-3004
FAX: 808-878-2645
E-Mail: customerservice@aklmaui.com

For more information on Maui, visit the Maui Visitors Bureau website here.

Images courtesy of Alii Kula Lavender

Win a 3-night hotel stay from Aqua Hotels

2010-03-16T14:06:00.001-10:00

Win a 3-night hotel stay from Aqua Hotels & Resorts

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Hawaii premiere of ‘Mighty Uke’ scheduled for March 19

2010-03-12T20:29:00.001-10:00

Hawaii premiere of ‘Mighty Uke’ scheduled for March 19

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Chef Mavro “Back from Bora Bora” with Flavors of French Polynesia

2010-03-11T18:57:00.008-10:00

Hawaii’s celebrated Chef Mavro recently returned from his first trip ever to French Polynesia that included a short stop in Papeete, Tahiti followed by a stay on the idyllic island of Bora Bora.

What caused him to leave his beloved Oahu? An invitation to join the maiden voyage of the very luxurious Seabourn Odyssey on a cruise to Bora Bora and to give a cooking demo and prepare a dinner featuring Hawaii Regional Cuisine. Once there, Mavro had no choice but to soak up the culinary flavors of this idyllic island as return flights to Honolulu are only once a week!

“I told myself if I’m going all the way to French Polynesia I’d better come back with some new flavor ideas! By good luck I stepped off the ship just as a cooking demo of poisson cru and poe dessert was getting underway at the harbor tourism office!” noted Mavro.

The exciting French/Polynesian flavors of Bora Bora inspired Chef Mavro to create a special three-course menu, “Back from Bora Bora,” for only $59.

The menu started on February 23 and ends March 20 and includes an irresistible version of Poisson Cru (surprise pairing with the Tahitian beer Hinano), followed by a main course of Pineapple Glazed Pork with umara puree, and finishes with a flavor-packed dessert of Poe of Taro.

Of course the $59 includes all the Chef Mavro extras of pre-appetizer, pre-dessert and hand-crafted candies.

This special menu is available by reservation from Tuesday, February 23 until March 20

Three courses ($59)

POISSON CRU (left photo)

bigeye ahi, lime juice, tomato, cucumber, carrot, sweet onion, fresh coconut milk

PORC LAQUE A L’ANANAS (middle photo)

pineapple glazed Island pork, vanilla sweet pototo (umara) puree, fresh coconut spinach

POE DE TARO (right photo)

baked taro pudding with banana ice cream

Chef Mavro restaurant is located at 1969 South King Street in Honolulu.

Open Tuesday-Saturday from 6-9:30 p.m.

Call 944-4714 or email chef@chefmavro.com.

p.s. If by some slim chance you don't know who Chef Mavro is ...
George Mavrothalassitis is chef/proprietor of Chef Mavro restaurant in Honolulu and a founding member of Hawaii Regional Cuisine. He holds the prestigious James Beard Foundation award as the Best Chef in Hawaii and the Pacific Northwest. The restaurant earned the Five Diamond rating from AAA (American Automobile Association) for 2009. The prestigious Gayot restaurant critics bestowed their only “18/20” rating in Hawaii, and also named Chef Mavro as the only Hawaii restaurant in their Top 40 Restaurants in the U.S. 2008-2009.

For more information, visit http://www.chefmavro.com/index.html

Images courtesy of Chef Mavro

Photo of the day: 'Sizzlin' Maui Kula Onions ... up close

2010-03-10T11:02:00.000-10:00

The annual Maui Onion Festival takes place in May. The deep-fried onion rings are 'da best'!

For more info, click here

Edmeades Winemaker Dinner at d.k Steak House in Waikīkī on Thursday, March 25th

2010-03-09T21:06:00.002-10:00

Edmeades Vineyards’ winemaker extraordinaire Van Williamson returns to d.k Steak House for a special dinner on Thursday, March 25th.

Without a doubt, Van Williamson produces some of the tastiest, most provocative, interesting, and singular Old Vine Zinfandel out of California today. No one does it better. Van is also certainly one of the most colorful, “down to earth,” unique winemakers, which is why he is one of d.k.’s absolute favorites. It’s going to be QUITE a night!

For the dinner, Executive Chef Jason Miyasaki has designed a delectable four-course menu specifically matched to Edmeades’ prize Zinfandels.

Price is $75 per person including wine pairings; please note, price does not include tax and gratuity.

This is a popular and special “one-night-only” event, so please make reservations early by calling the restaurant at 808-931-6280.

d.k Steak House is located in the Waikīkī Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, 2552 Kalākaua Avenue and features gorgeous ocean views.

Dinner is served nightly from 5:30 to 10:00 p.m. FREE 3-hour self parking with validation.

The winemaker’s dinner menu will be offered in addition to d.k Steak House’s full dinner menu.

Winemaker dinner menu:

Appetizer

RED WINE-BRAISED OXTAIL TORTELLINI

filled with Ricotta and Parmesan Cheeses, Nalo Basil, and Sweet Maui Onions, served with Kamuela Vine-Ripened Tomato and Truffle Jus

2007 Edmeades Zinfandel “Mendocino”

Ala Carte Glass: $7.50 Ala Carte Bottle: $37

2nd Course

BIG ISLAND RED VEAL SAUSAUGE & NALO GREEN SALAD

Sicilian Red Veal Sausage, Roasted Garlic & Pepper Aioli, Spicy Waimanalo Greens, Sun-Dried Hau‘ula Tomatoes and

a Toasted Garlic Crostini

2006 Edmeades Zinfandel “Zeni”

Ala Carte Glass: $11 Ala Carte Bottle: $55

Main Entrée

GARLIC & HERB-MARINATED MAUI CATTLE CO. RIBEYE STEAK

with Red Wine & Hamakua Ali‘i Mushroom Risotto, steamed Waialua Asparagus, Crispy Leeks, and Au Poivre Sauce

2007 Edmeades Zinfandel “Ciapusci Vineyard”

Ala Carte Glass: $12 Ala Carte Bottle: $60

Dessert

WARM CHOCOLATE BOMB

Bittersweet Chocolate Cake, Semisweet Ganache

and Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

2005 Edmeades Late Harvest Zinfandel “Perli Vineyard”

(Van’s personal favorite with which to end the evening!)

Ala Carte Glass: $7.00 Ala Carte Bottle: $35

Coffee or Tea

$75 per person

For information on Marriott Waikiki Beach, click here

For additional information on d.k. Steak House, click here

Honolulu Academy of Arts extends museum hours

2010-03-07T13:05:00.001-10:00

Honolulu Academy of Arts extends museum hours

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Visit a National Park: Oahu

2010-03-07T12:03:00.003-10:00

According to the National Park Service, there are eight national parks in Hawaii: five on the Big Island (Hawaii Island), one on Maui, one on Molokai and one of Oahu - each worthy of a visit. Kamaaina and visiors explore Hawaii’s national parks to marvel at the awesome natural wonders, visit ancient and recent Hawaiian settlements and pay homage to America’s past.

For this installment, we visit the national park on O‘ahu:

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, was established in 2008 by President Bush to honor American engagement in World War II by 9 sites in 3 states. Five of these sites are on O‘ahu:

USS Arizona Memorial and Visitor Center (see photo below)

USS Utah Memorial

USS Oklahoma Memorial

Six Chief Petty Officer Bungalows on Ford Island

Mooring Quays F6, F7, and F8, which formed part of Battleship Row

Admission to the USS Arizona Memorial is free.

Free tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis (these tickets are not reservable) for timed programs to the memorial. Timed programs include a 23-minute documentary film about the attack on Pearl Harbor and the boat trip to the USS Arizona Memorial.

Programs begin at 7:45 a.m. The last program each day begins at 3:00 p.m. The wait time for a program may be as long as two hours depending on the season.

Definitely worthy of including a visit during your stay.

Photo of the day - Flamingos

2010-03-06T00:39:00.002-10:00

I took this image in 2009. Flamingos are part of the menagerie of wildlife on display at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa.

Parent's magazine recently named Hilton Hawaiian Village to their best family beach resort list

What’s Blooming/What’s Bearing Fruit – with David Orr

2010-03-05T07:12:00.004-10:00

Everyone in Hawaii has plants and flowers in their yard. Flowers in my yard include stephanosis (below left), gardenia, ohai alii, white ginger, agapanthus, crepe myrtle, false heather, cat’s whiskers, bird of paradise and a few others (below right). You will also find orange, pear and mountain apple trees growing and bearing fruit. All of this is doing quite well on a lot that’s about 7000 sq. ft. You can just imagine what an 1800 acre valley might have and that’s what you can see when visiting Waimea Valley and taking the one-hour walk.

Waimea Valley is offering an authentic cultural window into the lifestyle and customs of the Hawaiian people, confirmed their 2010 walk schedule for “What’s Blooming/What’s Bearing Fruit” with David Orr. The one-hour walks take place on the first and third Sundays of each month.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon stroll with Botanical Collections Specialist, David Orr, as he takes visitors on a journey through the Valley, highlighting beautiful blooming plants and fruits along the way.

The walk is included in the price of admission, no additional fees.

Meet at the Waimea Valley Visitor Center.

Walks start promptly at 2:00 pm and end at 3:00 pm.

Participants should bring a snack, insect repellent, sunscreen, hat, water and sturdy shoes.

Waimea Valley is located at 59-864 Kamehameha Highway (across from Waimea Bay) on Oahu’s north shore.

For more information visit www.waimeavalley.net or call (808) 638-7766.

2010 General Admission Fees to Waimea Valley:

Visiting Adult $13.00
Visiting Child $6.00
Visiting Senior $6.00

Kamaaina/Military Adult $8.00
Kamaaina/Military Child $8.00
Kamaaina/Military Senior $5.00

Photos taken using my Blackberry Bold