Since then, the focus on bicycling has increased in Hawaii, not only because of critical mass, but also because of the increasing rise in gas prices, the traffic congestion that is experienced throughout Oahu and the overall price increase in just about everything which is causing people to look for alternatives to saving money. This increased awareness has finally brought attention up to lawmakers and state officials here in Hawaii and prompted them to look at the old 1999 Oahu bike plan.

The original 1999 bike plan only looked at bike paths from Kahala to Pearl City, whereas the new updated plan is set to address bike paths islandwide and put emphasis on linking bikeways for commutes and connections with public transportation.

While it’s estimated that there are only approximately 2,500 cyclists on Oahu, it’s still enough of a percentage to put Honolulu ninth in a ranking of 50 cities and therefore calls for the city to stand up and become more bike-friendly! This number is only destined to climb as projects such as K-Vibe and Cycle Manoa continue to reach out to the community and promote cycling.

Read here for more information on how the City of Honolulu is working to become a more bike-friendly community.

You can help in the progress of Oahu’s bike plan. Participate in the Survey on Bicycling on O’ahu, even if you rarely ride or live in another state. Your input will help the “Plan” address the needs of our island’s riders.

Other Links of Interest:
Bike O’ahu
Hawaii Bicycling League (HBL)

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Interactive for both parents and children, Waves ‘n Wonders uses a mix of colorful wildlife images, toys, and soothing music to captivate young children and keep them entertained. Just put this DVD on play and you’ll notice how your child is taken away to the islands of Aloha as they get lost in the experience. You might even catch them dancing to the wonderful music and when it’s over don’t be surprised if you hear them say “play it again.”

Waves ‘n Wonders is designed for children 0-4 years of age and retails for $18.99, which is a small price to pay for a wonderful cultural and educational experience for your children. To learn more about Lil’ Aloha Babies and purchase your very own copy of Waves ‘n Wonders be sure and visit them online at http://www.lilalohababies.com.

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The night kicked off with a wonderful opening act by Paula Fuga, followed by Mraz making his grand entrance on stage singing “Rocket Man” and as usual adding in a bit of his fun personality into the mix.

One of the cool parts of the night was when Mraz asked the crowd to “make him stars” using their “cellular devices” as he called it, and when the audience answered the call, it was like actual stars were all around you. Of course the highlight of the night came when Mraz sang his popular “I’m Yours” and added in a touch of “Hawaii, Hawaii, Hawaii” and “Barrack Obama” which made the entire crowd go MRAZy!

At the end of the performance as tradition in Hawaii, the crowd yelled Hana Hou, Hana Hou and of course Mraz answered the crowd’s request and returned to stage to sing not only one, but two more songs. In the end he left the crowd with a wonderful message saying “find something you love and practice it, practice kindness and most of all practice gratitude.”

Mr. A-Z is truly an awesome singer, songwriter and performer. For those who didn’t get a chance to check out the concert, I hope you enjoy the small clips in the video that highlighted the night. Remember his new album is set to release on May 13th, so GET IT!

Purchase “We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things” by Jason Mraz:
  

Jason Mraz: http://www.jasonmraz.com

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In a style that is unlike any other, Makana takes you away on a journey that crosses all boundaries and soothes you with an uplifting contemporary feel that is quite different from his previous albums, which identified more with the Hawaiian style of music. This is a true diamond in disguise and a precedent setting album that all should take notice of. Escape to another world in “Away”, experience a message that all the world can enjoy in “New Love Song”, and enjoy the simple melody of “Time of Being.”

“Different Game” is love, it’s peace, it’s serenity and everything this world needs to experience from music in this day and age. This truly is an album that every music lover should add to their collection. It’s such a wonderful gift from a Hawaiian musician whose name is actually a Hawaiian term meaning “gift from heaven.”

Currently Makana is touring the West Coast of the United States and set to return back to Hawaii to finish up the tour in late May. Check out the listings below for a location nearest you and experience Makana LIVE. It’s an experience you won’t forget!

Purchase “Different Game” by Makana:
  

Makana Music: http://www.makanamusic.com

West Coast Tour Dates & Locations

May 1st, Thursday – Santa Monica, California
Temple Bar
1026 Wilshire Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Ticket Info: 310.393.6611
www.templebarlive.com
Tickets: $10.00
Show: 10:00pm

May 2nd, Friday – Ventura, California
Zoey’s Café & Loft
451 Main Street
Ventura, CA 93001
Reservation Line: 805.652.0091
Café: 805.652.1137
www.zoeyscafe.com
Tickets: $15.00
Show:8:00pm-9:30pm
Doors Open: 7:00pm
Dinner ends 9:30pm

May 3rd, Saturday – Los Osos, California
South Bay Community Center *Benefit Surfrider Foundation
2180 Palisades Ave.
Los Osos, CA 93420
Ticket Info: 805.528.4169 (Rosemarie)
Show: 7:00pm-9:00pm
Doors Open: 6:00pm
Tickets: $15.00- adv/ $20.00 door
$20.00- reserve rows 1-5

May 4th, Sunday - Santa Barbara, California
SOhO Restaurant & Music Club
1221 State St # 205
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Ticket Info:(805) 962-7776
www.sohosb.com
Show: 8:00pm
Tickets: $12.00 w/dinner/ $15.00 show only

May 6th, Tues - Sacramento, California
Borders Books Store- In store Performance & Signing
2339 Fair Oaks Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95825
Tel.916. 564.0168
Show: 7:00pm-7:30pm

May 8th, Thursday - San Francisco, California
Biscuits & Blues
401 Mason Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Ticket Info:415.292-BLUES(25837)
www.biscuitsandblues.com
Show:8:00pm & 10:00pm
Doors Open:6:00pm
Tickets: $15.00 + 2 drink min

May 9th, Friday - Sand City, California
Borders Books Store
Edgewater Center
Sand City, California 93955
Show: 1:00pm

May 9th, Friday - Santa Cruz, California
The Attic
931 Pacific Avenue
Santa Cruz Ca 95062
Ticket Info: (831) 460 1800
www.theatticsantacruz.com
Show:7:00pm-9:00pm
Doors Open: 6:00pm
Ticket: $16.00 adv/ $20.00 door

May 10th, Saturday – Nevada City, California
The Odd Fellows Concert Hall
212 Spring Street
Nevada, City, CA 95959
www.nevadacitymusicevents.com
Ticket Info: 530.477.0929
Show: 8:00pm
Doors Open: 7:00pm
Tickets: $20.00- adv/ $25.00 door

May 11th, Sunday – Redwood City, California
Little Fox
2209 Broadway, Downtown
Redwood City, CA 94063
Ticket Info: 650.369.4119
www.foxdream.com
Show: 7:00pm-8:30pm
Tickets: $14.00 adv/$16.00 door

May 13th, Tuesday – Winters, California (Davis)
The Palms Playhouse
13 Main Street
Winters, CA 95694
Ticket Info:530.758.8058
www.palmsplayhouse.com
Show: 8:00pm-9:30pm
Tickets: $15.00

May 15th, Thursday - Eugene, Oregon
WOW Hall
291 W 8th Ave.
Eugene, OR 97401
Ticket Info: 541.687.2746
www.wowhall.org
Ticket also available at: www.ticketweb.com or 866-468-7623
Show: 8:00pm-9:30pm
Tickets: $15.00 adv/ $18.00 door

May 17, Saturday - Portland, Oregon
ACLU Oregon Private concert
Portland Oregon
Tickets: ACLU Oregon

May 18, Sunday - Portland, Oregon
Borders Books
2605 S. Cedar Hills Blvd.
Beaverton, 97005

Hawaii Tour Dates & Locations

May 28, Wednesday - Maui, Hawaii
Slack Key Concert at na Pili Kai Beach Resort, Maui
7:00pm

May 29, Thursday - Honolulu, Hawaii
Rumfire - Sheraton, Waikiki
5:00pm

May 31, Saturday - Honolulu, Hawaii
Denim & Diamonds Fundraiser at Sheraton Waikiki’s Hanohano Room
5:30pm

Jun 5, Thursday - Honolulu, Hawaii
Rumfire - Sheraton, Waikiki
5:00pm

Jun 12, Thursday - Honolulu, Hawaii
Rumfire - Sheraton, Waikiki
5:00pm

Jun 18, Wednesday - Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu Zoo Concert Benefit
6:00pm

Jun 19, Thursday - Honolulu, Hawaii
Rumfire - Sheraton, Waikiki
5:00pm

Jun 26, Thursday - Honolulu, Hawaii
Rumfire - Sheraton, Waikiki
5:00pm

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I first noticed this about two months ago when I would drive back home from Waikiki. Today I decided to stop and take this video to share it with the world.

Not sure of all the details behind this mural, such as who painted it and how long it’s been there, but I applaud the person who put in the time to create such a wonderful tribute to three of Hawaii’s greatest. If you have any additional details related to this mural, please feel free to share them in the comments below.

If you want to view more of this beautiful Hawaiian Mural visit our pics online at:
http://flickr.com/photos/808talk/tags/exit24ahawaiianmural/

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During the calm summer months Waimea Bay is a playground of fun for freedivers, S.C.U.B.A. divers, and those who desire to jump off “da Big Rock” or “Jump Rock” - a rock that is about 30 feet high above the water and is perfectly positioned in the bay (for use at your own risk!). You can also find rock climbers practicing their skills on the cliff and in the dry cave on the beach. The Bay, as well as Three Tables, Pupukea, & Shark’s Cove are protected waters. The diversity of life in these waters is astounding.

Enjoy your visit to Waimea Bay in much the same way these friends did, but remember as mentioned earlier, if you’re gonna jump “da Big Rock” be sure and do it with caution!

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“Tow-In surfer Dan Moore talks about Oahu’s legendary North Shore and how he surfed a monster 68-foot wave at Peahi (Jaws) on Maui. Authentic Waikiki Beach Boys follow in the footsteps of legendary waterman Duke Kahanamoku by teaching visitors how to surf in Waikiki. First Friday in Oahu’s urban Chinatown is a monthly celebration of art, culture, and nightlife in Hawaii.“

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“Critical Mass is an event typically held on the last Friday of every month in cities around the world where bicyclists and, less frequently, unicyclists, skateboarders, inline skaters, roller skaters and other self-propelled commuters take to the streets en masse. The ride was originally founded with the idea of drawing attention to how unfriendly the city was to bicyclists.“

Tomorrow (April 25, 2008) will mark the gathering of another Critical Mass (Honolulu) which will start at 5pm at the State Capital Beretania side in downtown Honolulu. Last month’s critical mass resulted in a clash between the police and cyclists in which an incident between an officer and a rider occurred after key roadways were taken over during Friday afternoon traffic. Police are hoping after their discussions with the group regarding the problems facing bicyclists in Honolulu, that this Friday’s ride will not result in another incident.

For those of you who commute in the downtown Honolulu area and have wondered what is going on the last Friday of every month, now you know. For the most part the riders that participate in Critical Mass are not out to cause any problems, but use this as a way to show their discontent with the not so bike-friendly city of Honolulu and to bring awareness that motorist and cyclists must learn to share the road. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to get out there and enjoy a ride will fellow cyclists as well.

To the motorists out there, remember next time your driving along in your car, be sure and keep a look out for cyclists and same goes for cyclists to make sure you look out for the motorists and follow applicable traffic laws. Let’s work together and share the road.

Featured video:

“LAST FRIDAY” Critical Mass Short Documentary - A short documentary of San Francisco’s Critical Mass 10th anniversary. Take a look inside one evening from a bicyclists point of view. Whether you like the event or not, it’s perhaps a perspective the mainstream media often ignores.

More Info:

What Is Critical Mass?
Critical Mass Honolulu

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Consider the price of $150-$300 a night for a nice room and then multiply that by 30 and that gives you what you would pay to stay at an average state of the art hotel here in Hawaii and that doesn’t even include tax, separate bedrooms, a full kitchen and the other amenities that you can find in a private vacation rental condo.

A vacation rental condo on the the other hand can range anywhere from $65-$145 a night depending on whether you are looking for a one bedroom or two bedroom rental. In either case you get the private feel of your own place for a short time during your stay in Hawaii, and over time save a little extra money.

So now on to the question: Where To Look For A Vacation Rental In Hawaii?

Here’s a few places that I recommend and have even used when helping out readers, listeners and family members who have visited Hawaii over the years.

• VRBO - Vacation Rentals By Owner
• Hawaiian Beach Rentals
• ClearStay.com “Vacation Rentals You Can Trust”
• VacationRentals.com
• Craigslist Hawaii

Note: When searching out a vacation rental in Hawaii remember that there is a Transient and Excise Tax 11.96%, usually some sort of cleaning fee, and a deposit required to book the unit. Also make sure and read the info regarding smoking as most places now in Hawaii will not allow smoking in the unit or even in some cases on the property.

Overall if you’ve decided for a longer than usual stay, a vacation rental is your best choice to help save some of that hard earned money and make your Hawaii vacation more enjoyable!

Additional reading: Hotel room rates up, occupancy off

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Jason Castro, playing ukulele, sang Brother IZ Kamakawiwoole’s version of “Over the Rainbow” Tuesday on “American Idol” and received rave reviews from all three judges, including the very critical Simon Cowell. Before singing, Castro, 21, said he was singing a nontraditional version of the song “by Brother IZ, a guy from Hawaii.” He added that it’s about “hopes and dreams and inspires us to dream big.”

Source: Honolulu Star-Bulletin

This was the same video I made reference to on our last podcast…enjoy!

Here’s a more detailed writeup over at HawaiiMagazine.com

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A friend of mine told me about it today and said you can test your vocabulary skills while helping to feed others so I just had to check it out. Turns out he was right! On top of that it was pretty addicting for me to challenge myself while seeing my bowl of rice being donated, fill up right before my eyes.

So the way it works is, visitors to the site are given a vocabulary challenge to answer. For every challenge the visitor gets right, 20 grains of rice are donated to the United Nations World Food Program. While it doesn’t seem like a lot, just think of the amount donated after thousands of people participate (Current: 26,662,277,870). The donated rice it actually paid for by sponsors who will appear at the bottom of the page as visitors are being challenged.

Pretty cool idea if you ask me and another way to send some aloha to those in need. Check it out and tell a friend!

“For each word you get right, we donate 20 grains of rice through the UN World Food Program to help end hunger“

FreeRice.com

No Hoax: Free Rice Website Feeds the Hungry

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“The Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument is the single largest conservation area under the U.S. flag, and the largest marine conservation area in the world. It encompasses 137,797 square miles of the Pacific Ocean (105,564 square nautical miles) - an area larger than all the country’s national parks combined.

The extensive coral reefs found in Papahānaumokuākea - truly the rainforests of the sea - are home to over 7,000 marine species, one quarter of which are found only in the Hawaiian Archipelago. Many of the islands and shallow water environments are important habitats for rare species such as the threatened green sea turtle and the endangered Hawaiian monk seal.

Papahānaumokuākea is also of great cultural importance to Native Hawaiians with significant cultural sites found on the islands of Nihoa and Mokumanamana.

The Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument was created by Presidential proclamation on June 15, 2006. See announcement and video here.“

Source: NOAA.gov

Other Links:
808T E.93 - Papahanaumokuakea
Wikipedia

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“Lucky We Live Hawaii”

Have a great weekend all…

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The second largest Hawaiian island has a smaller population than you’d expect, making Maui popular with visitors who are looking for sophisticated diversions and amenities in the small, intimate towns peppered throughout the island.

Maui’s unique vistas also make it a much anticipated destination. From beaches that have repeatedly been voted among the best in the world to the scenic heights of Haleakala Crater, a visit to “The Magic Isle” recharges the senses. But like every good magic trick, you’ll have to see it for yourself to believe it.

More About Maui: http://www.gohawaii.com/maui/
FREE Maui Visitors Guide: http://www.808talk.com/islands/Maui/
Uncle Willie K: http://www.williek.com

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This year the morning started off with light rain and a cool breeze, but quickly warmed up with skies clearing by 6:30am. Hundreds of runners turned out for this fun scenic race which began with colorful doves being released and a loud cannon boom.

For the most part the run is flat with the only exception to that being the actual bridge section which has some small inclines. Along the way there were two aid/water stations with restrooms at approximately the 2 and 4 mile markers. I only took advantage of the one at the 4 mile marker and grabbed some water to relieve my dry mouth.

This run is a relatively moderate one with the major difficulty being the bridge incline which I mentioned early, and the fact that the wind gusts on the bridge can be somewhat bothersome. Both young and old alike will enjoy this run because of it’s wonderful scenic route, so don’t hesitate to start making preparations to join in next year and get the whole family involved.

Finally I just want to congratulate all the finishers and until next year happy running!

V.Brown’s Results:
Overall Rank: 89
Age Group Rank: 15
Microchip Time: 45:42.8
Gun Time: 46:01.7
Pace: 7:25/M

Full Results: http://phpurl.com/9h

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Enjoy this 60-second tribute to the company made by “The Friends of Aloha.”

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Here’s a wonderful video put together by the Aloha Ohana which shows just a small sample of the friendly smiles that local residents have had the pleasure of experiencing for the past 61 years here in the islands.

Although Aloha Airlines the company will be gone, the Aloha shared by each and every employee will continue on through the memories of those who enjoyed the ride.

MAHALO NUI LOA - ALOHA OE
July 26, 1946 - March 31, 2008

Aloha Airlines Tribute Videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckltjmGEUfs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSc2hqOFpE8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yr-pRg7At0E

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“Struggling musician Peter Bretter (Jason Segel) has spent six years idolizing his girlfriend, television star Sarah Marshall (Kristen Bell). While writing a Muppet-type Dracula musical, he’s the guy left holding her purse in paparazzi photos and accidentally omitted from acceptance award speeches. Things take a twist when she breaks up with him, and Peter suddenly finds himself alone. After an unsuccessful bout of womanizing and an on-the-job nervous breakdown, he sees that not having Sarah may just ruin his life.

To clear his head, Peter takes an impulsive trip to Oahu, where he is confronted by his worst nightmare: Sarah and her tragically-hip, new British-rocker boyfriend, Aldous (Russell Brand), are staying at his hotel. As he torments himself with the reality of Sarah’s new life, he finds relief in a flirtation with Rachel (Mila Kunis), a beautiful resort employee whose laid-back approach tempts him to rejoin the world.“

Source: Wikipedia

Official Website of Forgetting Sarah Marshall:
http://www.forgettingsarahmarshall.com

Honolulu Advertiser Article From Filming On Oahu In 2007:
http://phpurl.com/7w

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“Join Chris and Shalynn, avid dive travelers & SCUBA Instructors, as they travel to ultimate dive destinations & exotic locations around the globe. Joined by local experts & dynamic characters, the Tank’D team discover local culture, fun topside activities & explore dive sites, dive companies and accommodations to fit every style and budget.

Tank’D is engaging, educational and visually stunning. Filled with great music and shot in High-Definition, it is designed for a wide demographic appeal with its fun upbeat style.

Divers and non-divers alike will be inspired to get out there and embark on their own great adventures.“

According to Tim Ryans Reel Hawaii, the series is set to air on Hawaii Public Television this year.

For more info on Tank’D visit:
http://www.sevenseasproductions.com/projects.html

Tank’D

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View full size video: http://www.vimeo.com/461096

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At just five years of age, Taimane was given an ukulele and fell in love with the instrument. At six years of age, she was called a child prodigy and won her first ukulele competition competing against boys double her age. Taimane has won numerous ukulele competitions competing against experienced adult professionals.

“My music is mixture of rock and roll, pops, Hawaiian and Spanish. Maybe that’s why everyone says my music has the unique style. I started to compose songs when I was seven. I write the song first and add the music later. I wish my music could help heal the world.” Taimane says.

“Taimane” means “Diamond” in the Samoan language.

For more on Taimane visit her online at: http://www.taimane.com and view more videos on YouTube

Purchase her CD: Mele.com, BookLinesHawaii.com

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“PGA TOUR golfer Parker McLachlin talks about growing up in Hawaii, his first hole-in-one, and what makes the golf courses in Hawaii so unique…“

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Some of the valuable information you find in the “Living In Paradise” feature are neighborhood overviews, an insight to local culture, important government phone numbers, dining recommendations, and much, much more, all providing a guide to living in Hawaii a true and unique paradise.

Oh and if your Kama’aina (local-born), don’t worry about feeling left out because I’m sure you too will find this information very useful as well.

Hawaii Newcomers Guide: http://phpurl.com/7n

Hawaiian Island Visitor Guides (FREE)

Kauai - Garden Isle
Oahu - The Gathering Place
Molokai - Friendly Isle
Lanai - Pineapple Island
Maui - Magic Isle
Hawaii - Big Island

Hawaii’s Official Tourism Site: http://www.gohawaii.com

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“Authentic Waikiki Beach Boys follow in the footsteps of legendary waterman Duke Kahanamoku by teaching visitors how to surf in Waikiki…“

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