808Talk Hawaii » History

Pearl Harbor Survivors Last Hawaii Reunion

April M. Williams — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 18:30:13 +0000

The opening of the new Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is also the final reunion of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. The group returns to Hawaii every five years. Membership in the group, chartered by Congress, is dwindling as members advance in years. For those who remain, traveling to Hawaii is physically taxing. The group decided to make this reunion the last gathering in Hawaii.

Membership is open to active military who were on duty and survived the Pearl Harbor bombings 69 years ago on December 7, 1941. National and state chapters are run by members who are all in their late 80′s or over 90 years of age. The national Pearl Harbor Survivors Association is considering disbanding due to low membership and workload on remaining members.

The Virginia Pearl Harbor Survivors Association thrives for now. Meet two Virginia Beach members of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association who traveled to Hawaii for this year’s reunion.

Bill Temple, president of the state chapter is returning to Hawaii for the first time since his tour of duty in the 1940′s. At 91 years young, Bill is sharp as a tack and keeps a schedule that would tire someone half his age. He is joined on the trip by his daughter Joan.

Bill Temple

Ernest “Dave” Davenport, state treasurer for the group, is joined by his wife and three sons. A youthful 89 years old, Dave’s personal mission is to make us all aware and alert so we are better prepared for the future.

Ernest “Dave” Davenport

Welcome back to Hawaii and thank you for your service.

Feature Photo Credit: exfordy

About this guest blogger:
April M. Williams is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and a great friend of 808Talk. She is also the author of the book “Social Networking Throughout Your Career”, available in paperback and on the Kindle.

Learn more about April by visiting her at the websites below.
LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/in/aprilmwilliams
Twitter http://twitter.com/AprilMWilliams
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/AprilMWilliams
CyberLife Tutors Blog http://www.cyberlifetutors.com/blog/
Travel Blog http://www.aprilmwilliams.com

Preserving The Last Iron Hulled Tall Ship

April M. Williams — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 10:15:11 +0000

Did you know the world’s last iron-hulled sailing tall ship is now docked in Honolulu, Hawaii? In 2008, the ship narrowly escaped being sunk as a reef in Honolulu.

The “Falls of Clyde” is docked in Honolulu Harbor near the Aloha Tower. She is the only surviving iron-hulled four-masted full rigged ship and the last sail-driven oil tanker in the world. The ship has been closed to the public for several years as work continues to restore and stabilize her. The goal is to restore and preserve the ship as the last of its kind.

“The Friends of Falls was founded in August 2008 and our mission is to preserve and restore the Falls of Clyde” said Bruce McEwan, president of the group.

The first step in the process is to stabilize the ship to maintain its structural integrity. Once the ship is stable, she can be moved to dry dock for further maintenance and preservation. Only then will restoration efforts begin. The Falls of Clyde is listed as a National Landmark and the goal is to restore the ship to its days as an iron-hulled oil tanker.

Bruce McEwan, President of The Friends of Falls of Clyde took us on a tour of the ship where we saw her current state for ourselves. The hull of the ship is rusty and is in need of sandblasting and painting. Once we boarded, we could not miss the crumbling and badly deteriorated teak deck in desperate need of replacement.

Below deck where there is less exposure to the elements, the ship is in better shape. The first room we entered was a sparse crew sleeping area. Four short wooden bunk beds attached to the sides of the walls made for tight quarters. Cubbyholes built into the sides and front of the room stored minimal personal belongings.

The cramped kitchen area required good organization skills to manage meal planning, cooking and serving. The massive iron stove was the focal point in the galley. On cold nights, this stove would make a cozy warming station for weary sailors.

Entering the Captain quarters in the stern of the ship was like walking back in time. The wood paneling and teak benches formed a rounded room which showed an air of sophistication and elegance I had not seen on other parts of the ship. The white painted walls curved around the built in teak benches covered with burgundy velvet covered cushions. The Captain and his officers might have spent evenings in this spacious entertaining area discussing politics or business deals over a glass of port.

Her teak deck is eroding and the ship is a reminder of days long ago. The Falls of Clyde’s future depends on those who believe she is a valuable part of history worth saving for posterity.

Preserving Last Iron Hulled Tall Ship Honolulu Hawaii

Learn more about the Falls of Clyde today by following them on Facebook or the Captain’s Log to learn about recent updates and events.

The Friends of Falls of Clyde is a 501C non-profit organization accepting donations to save this unique part of history. The current Million Quarter drive collects funds converted to 25¢ increments for tracking purposes and you can visit their website to follow the progress of the campaign.

Feature Photo Credit: jdnx

Hawaii Five-0: Now and Then – What Would The Lord Think? – PT 3

April M. Williams — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 10:50:52 +0000

Part three of a three part series examining Hawaii Five-0 now and then (H50NAT): Technology. Hawaii Five-0 was a popular television show that aired on the CBS network from 1968 to 1980 and now is in syndication. Filmed in Hawaii, the show was based on the fictional state police force known as Hawaii Five-0. The team name is a reference to Hawaii’s admission to the union as the fiftieth state, joining the United States in August of 1959.

Jack Lord starred in Hawaii Five-0 as Steve McGarrett, head of the Hawaii State Police. It is rumored that fellow cast and crew members called Jack “The Lord” due to his insistence on perfection, involvement in all aspects of the show and refusal to fraternize with others as noted in this TV Guide story from 1971. He was particular about his trademark pompadour hairstyle and stylish suits.

Lord continued to live in Hawaii and passed away there in 1998. As I watched the pilot episode of the rebooted Hawaii Five-0 television show, I pondered what Jack Lord would have thought of the new production.

The reboot stays true to the original show by reviving the famous theme song and pipeline wave logo, though in an updated way. Both series highlight the gritty parts of Hawaii which visitor bureaus do not want tourists to see. The reboot characters enter the show more developed and with their own baggage providing storylines for future shows. The director, writers and actors give a nod to the original cast while making the show their own. Lord was set on being the sole star of the show rather than sharing the limelight.

The Technology

Both teams depend on more than brawn, fasts cars and guns to win the battle against crime. Technology plays a key role in both the old and reboot show. In almost every episode, the original Steve McGarrett and the team sent a problem to “The Computer” to solve. We saw stock shots of a computer technician sorting stacks of punch cards as the computer analyzed facts from eye color to library card usage. Some of the invented technology included using a computer signal to open a bank or a signal tone on a police radio used to open a garage door.

The reboot team also depends on technology to solve crime. Smart phones and laptop computers with wireless Internet access give the team instant information. In the original show, McGarrett used the police car radio requesting, “Patch me though to the Governor.” Now McGarrett uses his cell phone to contact a friend on a naval intelligence ship in the middle of the ocean to call in a favor. He gets video of top security military satellite images sent directly to his car phone to aid in a high-speed chase. It is not just the Hawaii Five-0 team that has the latest technology. What would Jack Lord think about the reboot pilot episode scene of a father video chatting with his son via a smart phone while a passenger in a car?

Ford Motor Company sponsored the original show and all the cars used were big road boats that would list as they took the curves. Reboot vehicles like Camero, Silverado pickup and motorcycles are much more agile and faster. Jack Lord would have enjoyed taking a spin in one of these and put these rides through their paces. So far, the hubcaps in the reboot shows are staying on the cars wheels, unlike in the original.

The New Technology of Hawaii Five-0

Would Lord turn over in his grave? Of course, we will never know for sure what Lord would think of the reboot Hawaii Five-0. In the 42 years since the original show debuted, Hawaii has evolved. Lord would hardly recognize some of his old haunts. My guess? Lord would appreciate the nod to the original show from the reboot series and with the spirit of aloha, wish the new show well.

For those who cannot get enough Hawaii Five-0 discussion, visit Mike Quigley’s Hawaii Five-0 trivia and oddities page or follow Mike on Twitter. Mike also maintains links to other Hawaii Five-0 sites on his Hawaii Five-0 FAQ page.

View my entire “Hawaii Five-0: Now and Then” series at tag: H50NAT

Hawaii Five-0: Now and Then – What Would The Lord Think? – PT 2

April M. Williams — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 10:50:59 +0000

Part two of a three part series examining Hawaii Five-0 now and then (H50NAT): Places. Hawaii Five-0 was a popular television show that aired on the CBS network from 1968 to 1980 and now is in syndication. Filmed in Hawaii, the show was based on the fictional state police force known as Hawaii Five-0. The team name is a reference to Hawaii’s admission to the union as the fiftieth state, joining the United States in August of 1959.

The Places

Tropical Waikiki beach and downtown Honolulu are central to both the original and reboot Hawaii Five-0 series. The sandy beach arching to meet Diamond Head crater at the east end of Waikiki Beach is one of the most recognized vistas in the world. The distinctive blue and white Ilikai Hotel continues to be a favorite filming location. Who can forget the tight pan in to Jack Lord standing atop the Ilikai penthouse balcony in the original opening credits? Next to the Ilikai and Hilton Hawaiian Village is the newly renovated Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, a location which has been used for scenic outdoor scenes in both shows. Rumor has it that Jack Lord liked to spend time at the Ilikai and would probably enjoy sitting on the lanai watching the reboot episode filming perhaps offering directorial suggestions.

Diamond Head view from the Duke Kahanmoku Lagoon (photo credit: D’Arcy Norman)

Jack Lord lived in Kahala near the beachfront Kahala Inn. The hotel has been used for location scenes in both series. The scenic pool area overlooks the Pacific and it is hard to miss the scenes where dolphins are performing tricks in the pool. I bet Lord enjoyed the commute to work on the days they filmed at the Kahala Inn. He could almost literally roll out of bed and be on the set.

When not chasing criminals, the team is often back at their office. The original show offices were in the top floor of the Iolani Palace. Once home to last of the ruling Hawaiian royalty, the palace is now a National Historic Landmark. Outdoor shots of the Five-0 team offices in the original show indicate the team used rooms in the front of the building. Actually, the filming was done in the rear rooms as you can see the State Capital building as you look through the windows in the rear of the set.

The reboot team offices are located across King Street in the Hawaii State Supreme Court building (Aliʻiōlani Hale) marked by the eighteen foot tall golden statue of King Kamehameha in front of the building: a popular landmark. These two buildings are important to the cultural history of the state and of Hawaii people. Jack Lord was active in the community and would appreciate the focus on Hawaiian history.

In both shows, peeling out of the office, the force races cars down Ala Moana and Ala Wai Boulevards, Kalakaua Avenue, Diamond Head Road and the streets of Chinatown. The original show commonly used stock shots for many of these scenes. As we watched the cars chasing down the city streets, the make, model or color of the cars would suddenly change based on the film clip available. Let’s hope the reboot pays a little more attention to continuity during production.

It is interesting to note how different Honolulu and especially Waikiki appear when comparing shots of the same areas from the two different shows. Waikiki today is far more developed than it was 30 years ago. Many of the kitschy mom and pop shops of yore have been replaced by high-rise hotels, high-end retail stores and indoor shopping malls. It won’t be long before the Waikiki of Jack Lord’s day will be gone forever.

To be continued…check back here on 808Talk for the third and final part of this special three parts series on Hawaii Five-0 now and then.

View my entire “Hawaii Five-0: Now and Then” series at tag: H50NAT

Hawaii Five-0: Now and Then – What Would The Lord Think? – PT 1

April M. Williams — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 10:50:45 +0000

Part one of a three part series examining Hawaii Five-0 now and then (H50NAT): People. Hawaii Five-0 was a popular television show that aired on the CBS network from 1968 to 1980 and now is in syndication. Filmed in Hawaii, the show was based on the fictional state police force known as Hawaii Five-0. The team name is a reference to Hawaii’s admission to the union as the fiftieth state, joining the United States in August of 1959.

The People

Both the original show and the reboot focus on four central characters. In both versions Steve McGarrett heads the team. Interaction between McGarrett and characters Danny Williams, Chin Ho Kelly and Kono Kalakaua are very different in the reboot. In the original, McGarrett ran things by the book and directed his team’s actions. A team member would say, “Look Steve, I found this gun.” McGarrett would run over and order his staff to, “Get the gun to the lab and have them check for fingerprints.” It seemed, even after twelve years, the team could not take any actions without McGarrett’s explicit direction. The team looked up to McGarrett and would never consider making a move without his permission. The reboot series reflect our society’s transition away from the autocratic, top down management style where authority is often challenged and we see contention in the ranks. Lord would have quickly squelched any challenge to his authority.

The original Five-0 team always wore suits to the office. McGarrett could be counted on to wear blue or grey ventless suits despite being outside in 90 degree temperatures. The rest of the team took turns wearing brown, grey, maroon, green and even plaid suits. The current reboot team wears t-shirts and jeans except for Danny. This hold out wears a dress shirt and tie even when chasing the bad guys along the beach despite the grief that McGarrett gives him.

In the reboot, Alex O’Loughlin as Steve McGarrett plays a rogue cop with a personal vendetta against the bad guys who killed his father. Co-star Scott Caan (Danny Williams) reluctantly joins the team and challenges McGarrett at every opportunity. In the pilot reboot episode, Danny punches McGarrett in the mouth. The original Danny never argued, challenged or confronted McGarrett. After all the years of leading the team, Jack Lord may have been relieved to see the team become more self directed and display initiative.

The original Danny enjoyed living in Hawaii and spending time outdoors. He was a bachelor who appeared to work around the clock and had no outside interests. Rebooted Danny is new to Hawaii, following his ex-wife, who has physical custody of their young daughter, so he can have visitation. He hates when McGarrett says “Book ‘em, Danno” and cannot wait to get off this rock. Lord would be riled as this reboot Danny character steals the show.

In the original series, Chin Ho Kelly often took a backseat in many episodes with little screen time. In one episode, we were introduced Chin’s family and know he has ties to the Chinese underworld that run the dark side of town. McGarrett would often send Chin into Chinatown to pick up scuttlebutt or spread information. The reboot Chin, played by LOST’s Daniel Dae Kim freely speaks his mind and takes action based on experience gained through years as a cop. He was recently removed from the police force for misdeeds he denies doing. McGarrett believes Chin is honest though he knows other cops will resist working with them due to this blot on Chin’s record. Lord would likely try to tone down this character as Chin competes for screen time.

Reboot Chin brings his beautiful cousin onto the Hawaii Five-0 team. Grace Park as a bikini wearing, surfing Kono Kalakaua is brand new to the police force. This characterization is a departure from the original Kono character played by the formidable Zulu. Park goes undercover as a cocktail waitress in an early episode, which of course Zulu would never have been able to pull off. In Lord’s day, there were few professional women on the show. They were relegated to roles as admins, beach babes or wealthy socialites. As an “abide by the rules” kind of guy, I imagine Lord would follow all current employment laws and quotas.

The four main reboot characters each play a dominant role in the episodes aired to date. Unlike the original show, team members each offer their talents and knowledge rather than requiring constant direction from McGarrett. Over time, the original show’s cast grew and featured recurring support characters including the Hawaii State Governor, forensic technicians, coroner, and other police officers. To date, these characters, except for the Governor, have not been included in the reboot show. Famous actors gladly flew to Hawaii for guest roles as the original show became more popular. The Hawaiian set is likely to draw today’s celebrities for guest appearances in the same manner. Would Lord be worried about being upstaged?

To be continued…check back here on 808Talk for the second part of this special three parts series on Hawaii Five-0 now and then.

View my entire “Hawaii Five-0: Now and Then” series at tag: H50NAT

Visit The Waikiki Natatorium While You Still Can

April M. Williams — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:20:08 +0000

At the foot of Diamond Head, the once stately Waikiki Natatorium, a structure containing a swimming pool, honors World War I soldiers. The first time I passed by the ornate gates with an expansive view of the Pacific Ocean, I felt the eerie stillness of the closed building in contrast to the bustling pedestrian traffic around me.

Feature Photo Credit: Waikiki Natatorium

The Waikiki Natatorium honors the 101 residents of Hawaii who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice in World War I and the 10,000 other Hawaii residents who were involved in the war effort. Hawaii did not become a state until 1959, and these Hawaiian Territory residents enlisted with American and British forces. The journey to purchase ocean front property and create a war memorial is described in the book “Hawaii in the World War“.

The War Memorial (Waikiki Natatorium) (photo credit: Noel F. Williams)

Salt water pools were the rage in the early 1900′s and this popular pool, bleachers and locker rooms attracted residents and visitors until closing in 1979¹. The building condition had deteriorated to a point where it was deemed unsafe for use. Currently, the Natatorium parking lot is used by surfers, fisherman and swimmers as well as visitors to the local parks.

Things were different during the pools heyday. Hawaiian Olympian Duke Kahanamoku celebrated his birthday as the first swimmer in the pool on opening day August 24, 1927². Other famous bathers included fellow Olympians and movie stars Esther Williams, Buster Crabbe and Johnny Weissmuller.

Swimmers no longer spend afternoons cooling off in the pool. The now closed Natatorium is listed on the National³ and State Registers of Historic Places. An 11 million dollar project restored the facade of the landmark though the interior work was never completed. All efforts stopped and funding for the site withdrawn under Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann⁴. Beyond the facade, the walkways and bleachers continue to crumble and erode. Large holes gape in the pool deck.

The mayor met with representatives of interested groups to decide the fate of the Natatorium. In 2009, the Waikiki Natatorium Task Force voted to tear down the historic site and move the gates to another location in Honolulu⁵.

The Waikiki Natatorium

Friends of the Natatorium formed to fight the demolition of the site. Their blog documents the Natatorium’s Golden Age, current remembrances and follows the controversial plans to demolish the building. You can follow these stories on Twitter and Facebook.

Roll of Honor (photo credit: Noel F. Williams)

Across the street from the Natatorium is a small and lesser known Honor Roll with the names of all 101 Hawaii Territory soldiers who served in World War I etched in the marble stone.

Historical Facts:

The Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial is both a swimming pool and a war memorial – a living memorial. Common in other countries such as Australia, the Natatorium was the first living memorial of its kind built in the United States.

This WWI memorial is to the over 10,000 Hawaii residents who were involved in the war effort and the 101 who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Natatorium’s grand opening was on August 24, 1927. Johnny Weissmuller, Duke Kahanamoku, and Buster Crabbe were all in attendance. It was Duke’s birthday, and Johnny set a world 100 meter record that day.

- Waikiki Natatorium

The Waikiki Natatorium is located at the east end of Waikiki Beach on Kalakaua Ave just east of Kapahulu Ave (Map). When you visit the Natatorium, stop by the nearby Waikiki Aquarium and Honolulu Zoo.

From Humble Beginnings: A New Republic

Richard Wong — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 17:45:04 +0000

In the area of Mauna Kea St. and Beretania St. in downtown Honolulu was the original Iolani school. Two young Chinese boys, Sun Yat-Sen and Ho Fon were students at this school. While being educated in Hawaii, the two young men began to plot the Chinese revolution. They developed a secret society called the Kuo Min Tang Society (Revive China Society) whose main purpose was to overthrow the oppressive Chinese government. With the patronage of the Chinese community these young men managed to overthrow the Manchu Empress of China and create the Republic of China with Dr. Sun Yat-Sen being elected the first president of the new republic in 1911.

This Hawaiian History Moment Brought To You By:
Ohana Walking Tours with special thanks to Richard Wong

Learn more about Ohana Walking Tours by visiting them on the web.
http://www.ohanatours.org

Kualoa: Not Just a Ranch

Richard Wong — Mon, 31 May 2010 16:45:10 +0000

In Hawaiian culture the chiefs or Ali’i wore an ivory fishhook around their necks as a sign of their royalty. These ivory hooks were carved from the teeth of sperm whales. On the island of Oahu, Kualoa is the only place where the bodies of sperm whales washed ashore. And from these whales the ivory obtained for the carving of lei niho palaoha. Thus Kualoa is considered a sacred place where the whale ivory is obtained.

lei niho palaoa

Photo Credit: (pic-a-flik54) / CC by 2.0

Top:
Lei Niho Palaoa (Neck Ornament), 19th century
Carved sperm whale tooth, braided human hair, olona cordage
Gift of Mrs. W. F. Giddings, 1941 (4939)

Bottom:
Lei Niho Palaoa (Neck Ornament), 19th century
Carved sperm-whale tooth, braided human hair
Gift of Anna Rice Cooke, 1927 (2088)

Whale Tooth Necklace (lei niho palaoa)

“The hooked pendant itself is made from the tooth of a sperm whale. Hawaiians respected sperm whales. They did not hunt them, but if a whale was beached it was regarded as the property of the king. They ate the flesh, and used the ivory for ornaments and inlay. The Hawaiian name for this type of ornament is lei niho palaoa…“

Source: The British Museum

This Hawaiian History Moment Brought To You By:
Ohana Walking Tours with special thanks to Richard Wong

Learn more about Ohana Walking Tours by visiting them on the web.
http://www.ohanatours.org

Video: PRINCESS KAIULANI – Official Trailer

Vernon Brown — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 00:30:30 +0000

PRINCESS KAIULANI – Official Trailer

Many of you may remember the post we did in 2008 when filming began on this controversial movie in Honolulu which used the title “Barbarian Princess” as the USA (festival title). Thanks to an update from Sheri Candler, we have learned it is scheduled to be released in select cities and theaters across the U.S. on May 14, 2010 under the title of “Princess Kaiulani.” The world premiere of this film was previously released last year at the Hawaii International Film Festival (HIFF).

Via Sheri Candler of www.shericandler.com

“An update to information on this film. The film will be opening May 14, 2010 in the following cities: Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Diego, San Francisco, Phoenix, New York, and various locations in the Hawaiian Islands. Expanded city engagements will follow throughout the summer…”

Synopsis:

“Princess Kaiulani stars Q’orianka Kilcher, as a turn-of-the-century princess caught up in the last days of the Hawaiian monarchy. Set in 1888, the Kingdom of Hawaii is divided by a civil war. Princess Kaiulani, the young heir to the throne, is suddenly forced to flee the home she adores and move to England where she finds an altogether different life – one where she is not considered royalty. As she grows up and adapts to her new life there, she falls in love with the rebellious but sweet-natured Clive. At the tender age of 17, she receives the devastating news that the monarchy has been overthrown and her aunt, Queen Liliuokalani, has been arrested. The young Princess must choose between her true love and the responsibility to her beloved islands and the Hawaiian people.“

Source: Ioncinema.com

History of Laser Refractive Surgery & Hawaii’s LASIK Pioneer

Vernon Brown — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 11:25:22 +0000

Refractive surgery was born in the 1970′s when a Russian surgeon realized that he could reduce a persons nearsightedness by surgically changing the shape of the cornea or front surface of the eye. The procedure known as radial keratotomy was performed with traditional surgical tools. In the late 1970′s, the potential of coupling this procedure with the excimer laser was realized. The excimer laser is a specific type of “cool” laser that generates its power from light in the ultraviolet range. Because the laser does not generate any heat, there is no tissue damage as the result of the laser light. The energy of the laser simply causes miniscule amounts of corneal tissue to dissociate a microscopic level. As the treatment with the laser proceeds, microscopic layers of tissue, approximately 1/10th the width of a human hair are removed. The laser is programmed to remove precisely the amount of tissue needed to achieve the desired result.

The procedure was commercialized in 1987 and finally FDA approved in the United States in 1995 after hundreds of thousands of procedures had been performed in Canada, Europe and South America. The Laser Eye Center of Hawaii is one of the first free standing refractive laser centers in the US as the first procedure was performed soon after FDA approval in 1996.

Since the inception of laser refractive surgery, millions of procedures have been done throughout the world. It is the most commonly performed elective surgery. Advancements in the procedure include making the LASIK flap with a laser as well as measurement of refractive error using digital wavefront technology. The eye tracker as well as iris recognition software have also improved outcomes. These improvements make the surgery safer and more precise.

Dr. Tyrie Jenkins was a national early adopter in laser vision correction. She was active in the study that led to the FDA approval of LASIK and performed Hawaii’s first LASIK procedure in 1997. She regularly participates in ongoing research in her field. To date Dr. Jenkins has performed over 20,000 refractive surgeries and continues to bring the freedom of glasses and contacts to many. She offers a variety of technologies to help people live a life free of glasses or contacts. Learn more about LASIK and the advanced technologies that Dr. Tyrie Jenkins uses at Pathway to Vision.

Frequently asked questions:

Who is a candidate?

A large percentage of nearsighted, farsighted, and astigmatic patients are potential candidates for LASIK. Patients who are 18 years of age or older, have healthy eyes that are free from retinal problems, corneal scars, and any eye disease are suitable. Along with being medically suitable, the best candidates are people with a lifestyle or occupation in which they are dissatisfied with their contact lenses or glasses. By having an evaluation, examination, and consultation with you, the doctor will be able to determine if you are a good LASIK candidate.

Are the results permanent?

Yes. Following an initial healing period of two to three weeks, the effect of the treatment is lifelong.

Will I Need Glasses or Contact Lenses After The LASIK Treatment?

The FDA studies required for the procedure to be performed in the United States showed that with Custom View LASIK using the femtosecond laser to make the flap showed 100% of patients could pass a drivers test without glasses or contacts (20/40 or better) 98% or patients could see 20/20 with 70% of patients seeing better than 20/20. In addition, many participants reported that they had clearer, better vision both during the day and at night, compared to their vision with glasses or contact lenses before the procedure. The results were good enough for NASA to recommend that their astronauts have the procedure.

Are there risks?

As with any procedure, there are always the possibilities of complications. Fortunately with LASIK, the risks are small. It is most important that a very thorough evaluation be performed before surgery to see if you are a good candidate and that you go to a surgeon that has performed many surgeries.

What if I am not a candidate?

What would make you not a candidate would be if your prescription is too high, your eyes are too dry, your cornea is too thin or irregularly shaped or that you have another condition of your eye that makes having LASIK not a good idea. Fortunately there are other technologies available to be rid of your glasses and contacts and it is important to seek out a refractive surgeon that is experience in these alternatives.

How Much Does Laser Vision Correction Cost? Can I Afford It?

Most practices offer financing with affordable monthly payments in order to help fit LASIK into your budget. As compared with eyeglasses and contact lenses, at a range of $2,000 to $3,000 per eye, LASIK can pay for itself in a few years time. Eyeglasses usually have to be replaced once a year or so and contact lenses, depending on the type, can be extremely costly. Your company may be able to help you pay for LASIK! Many employment companies have implemented healthcare options that make elective surgeries such as LASIK an affordable alternative. These insurance programs are referred as Flex Plans, cafeteria plans or alternative health plans. These plans designate a limited amount of pre tax dollars to pay for the employee’s predetermined elective surgery. Generally the employee must decide which surgery they are planning to have and declare this to their employer. You can contact your human resource office to find out when your company’s enrollment period begins.

How do I find out if I am a candidate?

To find out if you are a candidate for this life changing procedure, please give us a call at 808-591-9911 for a free consultation with Dr. Tyrie Jenkins, one of the pioneers in laser refractive surgery in Hawaii. Or visit our website at www.pathwaytovision.com.

Hawaii Five-O: Book ‘Em, Chin Ho!

April M. Williams — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 11:45:03 +0000

The recent DVD release of the long running Hawaii Five-O television series has sparked continued rumors of a remake or feature movie which in the past week seems to have become a reality with the signing of “LOST” star Daniel Dae Kim. The original series was filmed on location in Hawaii, and ran from 1968 to 1980. Each hour-long episode featured the fictitious Hawaii State Police team solving crimes in Oahu and neighboring islands. The name Five-O comes from Hawaii’s status as the fiftieth state.

The popular opening theme song and views of the spectacular pipeline wave are easily recognized by fans. When the criminals are nabbed, the show often closed with the famous line “Book ‘em.” The DVD release has spiked renewed interest in Hawaii.

The tropical Hawaiian setting was a backdrop for crime sprees, interrogations and investigation. Waikiki and Kailua Beach were favorite locales for shooting action scenes. Car chases and street scenes were usually filmed in gritty Chinatown. The Iolani Palace in Honolulu, the only official state residence of royalty in the United States, became the offices of the Five-O team. The cast was often shown rushing down the grand koa wood stairway to protect the citizens from crime. Outside the team’s office, you can see the distinctive State Capital building. Hawaii is one of only eleven state capitols in the United States to not have an external dome. (The others are Alaska, Delaware, Louisiana, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee and Virginia.)

The series’ main characters were played by actors Jack Lord, James MacArthur, Kam Fong Chun and Gilbert Lani Kauhi “Zulu.” While a revival show may eventually happen, bringing the original cast together again is not possible. Zulu’s ashes were reportedly scattered along Waikiki Beach while Jack Lord’s ashes were placed on the beach near his home on Kahala Beach. Kam Fong is buried at Diamond Head Memorial Park (SEC. DEV.34-C) in Honolulu, where we recently paid our respects.

Diamond Head Memorial Park (Book ‘em Chin Ho!)

Fong, of Chinese ancestry, was born in Kalihi, Honolulu, Hawaii on May 27, 1918, and died October 18, 2002. Adversity played a part in Fong’s life. He watched a younger brother burn to death in a freak painting accident. Fong was at home when two B-24 military planes collided over his house, the burning wreckage killing his first wife and two children. He was employed at Pearl Harbor and began his shift just as the attack on December 7, 1941 began, watching the USS Arizona burn.

After retiring from the Honolulu police force and before joining the television series, Fong was a disc jockey, real estate agent, talent agent, actor and ran for Hawaii governor in 1989.

With his 16-year career as a Honolulu police officer, he was a natural in his role as Detective Chin Ho Kelly from 1968-1978. His television character was named after Chin Ho, who founded the famous Ilikai Hotel in Waikiki, often used for location sequences. The opening scene with Jack Lord standing on the penthouse balcony was filmed there. The hotel’s aqua blue trim is easy to recognize in episodes.

While best known for his Hawaii Five-O portrayal of Chin Ho Kelly, Fong was a sought after character actor. According to IMDB.com, his movie credits include “Gidget Goes Hawaiian,” “Goodbye Paradise”, “Ghost of the China Sea,” “Seven Women from Hell,” “Cry for Happy” and “Diamond Head.”

Interest in Hawaii Five-O continues as the show reaches new audiences through syndication and the recent DVD release. A different cast of characters could breathe new life into the show and hook a next generation of viewers. Tourists may view the tropical location and this would increase interest in Hawaii as a vacation destination.

About this guest blogger:
April M. Williams is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and a great friend of 808Talk.

Before The Beginning There Was Maui

Richard Wong — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 00:45:39 +0000

One day the Demigod Maui fashioned a large magic fishhook. He went to his brothers and asked them to go out to sea with him to use the hook. His brothers reluctantly agreed and went with him. On the sea, Maui instructed his brothers to paddle the canoe and not look back from where they had come. No matter what they heard, don’t look back, they were told. Maui cast his hook into the sea and told his brothers to paddle and paddle hard. The canoe moved slowly because they had hooked something large. They pulled and pulled and soon a rumbling sound was heard behind the canoe, “pull” Maui instructed, “PULL!” Finally, one of the brother’s curiosities got the better of him and he looked back. To his amazement he saw Maui had pulled the Hawaiian Islands up from the bottom of the sea with the magic hook. Due to the brother looking back, the hook let go and we have only the Hawaiian Islands instead of a continent.

The Hawaiian Islands

Photo Credit: (Waifer X) / CC BY 2.0

This Hawaiian History Moment Brought To You By:
Ohana Walking Tours with special thanks to Richard Wong

Learn more about Ohana Walking Tours by visiting them on the web.
http://www.ohanatours.org

Mal Middlesworth Remembers Pearl Harbor

April M. Williams — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 11:25:47 +0000

Mal Middlesworth is a survivor of the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. He was an 18 year old with the Marine Detachment on the heavy cruiser USS San Francisco that morning. Years later Mal vividly remembers the scene and he is dedicated to ensuring our future generations also remember. Mal currently resides in California and is the past president of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. Mal agreed to speak to me recently and here are highlights from our recent conversation.

April: Where did you grow up?
Mal: I was born in Cowden, Illinois and moved to Elgin, Illinois when I was two years old. I lived in Illinois until I enlisted in the Marines.

April: What are you working on these days?
Mal: I am the past National President of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association and currently editor of the Pearl Harbor Survivor Association Gram.

April: In your opinion, why is it important to keep the history and stories of Pearl Harbor alive?
Mal: He who forgets the mistakes of the past is likely to make them again. Pearl Harbor was crisis. Pearl Harbor survivors concentrate on giving presentations to students at high schools. Today’s high school students don’t know anything about Pearl Harbor. They read 1/4 page in their history books and they have no concept of the times in which we have lived. The attack on Pearl Harbor is one of the most significant events of the 20th century.

USS Arizona Memorial – Pearl Harbor

Photo Credit: (mandalariangirl) / CC BY-SA 2.0

April: Do you compare the Pearl Harbor attack to the September 11th attack?
Mal: They were both sneak attacks on American soil. It was a different type of war than we have today. We were not prepared for either one of these attacks.

April: Tell me about your experiences returning from the duty. How did Americans receive you?
Mal: We all were well received by the people when we returned home. They were grateful for our service and still are today. In the Palm Spring Veterans Day Parade, the Pearl Harbor survivor’s ride in antique cars, fire engines, trucks, etc. and always get the biggest applause of all the entries in the parade. The applause are experienced in all parades, memorial services, etc.

April: Do you feel that you currently get the proper respect and recognition from today’s younger generation?
Mal: The younger generation is busy with their iPods and their computers. When Pearl Harbor survivors set up a booth at air shows we will put down a map of Pearl Harbor. People want to know specifically where each of us was during the attack – as individuals.

Normally the first thing they ask us is where was your ship – and we use the map of Pearl Harbor to show them the location of the ship we were stationed on. If you were not in the harbor itself (Army, Army Air Corps, Marine base, military installation on the Island of Oahu) we use a second map to show the entire island.

They realize we are as rare as dodo birds. The Smithsonian is currently doing audio and video history recording. There is much interest in World War II and in Pearl Harbor survivors. Some of the 10 year olds I meet know more about Pearl Harbor than I do. Their families have brought their children up to recognize our service during those years.

The Pearl Harbor survivor slogan is “Remember Pearl Harbor. Keep America alert.”

April: While serving in the military, what prejudices did you see?
Mal: During my service I experienced a transformation, mostly due to Eleanor Roosevelt. When I enlisted, there were no Blacks and few Latinos in the military. In 1943 I was transferred to a Marine Base in Southern California and saw women Marines for the first time.

Near the end of the war, (1945) we had an all Black company of Marines in our Battalion. Many Marines from the South thought we would have a race war. This was the first non-White Marine I had ever seen. Many were college graduates. I still found animosity during and after the war. I traveled extensively in the South and was amazed at the prejudices I saw.

At the end of the war I earned a college degree and I’ve been in the media business ever since as a writer and even had my own film company. In my last job I was Vice President of productions at of one of the largest media companies in the country. I would not have been as successful in my business or my life without my service in the Marine Corp.

April: Are members of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association military or civilian?
Mal: The Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, Inc. is a 501c non-profit corporation chartered by Congress. When there are no Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, Inc. members, the national charter will no longer be legal. The charter and organization will no longer exist unlike the VFW, American Legion, Marine Corps League, etc. So we are a very unique military organization. Only military members who were on active duty at 7:55 AM on December 7, 1941 and on the island of Oahu or within three miles of shore are eligible to join.

April: Have you developed lifelong bonds with others who shared your experiences that day?
Mal: I have been a member of the Pearl Harbor survivors association for 10 years and very active in my local chapter. Some of my closest friends are Pearl Harbor survivors. In fact, I have more Pearl Harbor survivor friends than family friends here. It’s a very unique bond between us. I went to Hawaii before I joined the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. I usually go back every other year. Next year the National Convention will be held there. I have many friends who work at the Arizona Memorial. Our group now works closely with the Arizona Memorial Museum Association (AMMA) and the National Park Service. The AMMA partnership will carry on the activities of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association when we are no longer able to.

You Are Not Forgotten – Pearl Harbor

Photo Credit: (mandalariangirl) / CC BY-SA 2.0

April: When you return to Hawaii, what activities are a “don’t miss” for you?
Mal: For me it’s the tour in the late afternoon on the new boats. They take us around the whole harbor and they stop near where the ship was. Also, a visit to the other memorials like the USS Oklahoma which is a new exhibit. There are pylons, which represent each person who perished on the boat.

You can read Mal Middlesworth’s story, Pearl Harbor: Remembered, here…

Read more stories from other Pearl Harbor survivors here…

About this guest blogger:
April M. Williams is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and a great friend of 808Talk.

Pearl Harbor – Keeping Our History Alive

April M. Williams — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 10:05:34 +0000

Hawaiian and United States history changed forever in the early morning hours of December 7, 1941 when Pearl Harbor was attacked.

While I read my history text books as a child and understood the events, I did not connect with the history of World War II. As with Pearl Harbor, the stories of our country’s history did not come alive for me until I began traveling to historic sites.

On my first visit to Oahu, I toured Pearl Harbor’s Arizona Memorial and Arizona Memorial Museum. As we waited for tickets early in the morning, we were greeted by one of the Pearl Harbor survivors. Here was a veteran committed to educating younger generations on the lessons of our past. His warm welcome to visitors and dedication to our understanding of Pearl’s history was evident.

Years later I brought my children to the Arizona Memorial. As they toured the site and viewed the exhibits in the Visitor Center, I could see they did not feel connected to the events represented there. We rode the boat across the harbor to the Arizona Memorial perched atop the sunken ship and I realized they did not understand the enormity of the tragedy that had occurred at the site. The story of December 7, 1941 did not come alive for them as it had for me.

In contrast, they lived through the time of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in New York City, Arlington, Virginia and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. My youngest son watched the scenes unfold in real-time on live television. Their visit to Ground Zero in New York hit them right between the eyes, bringing back vivid memories of the attack.

There are parallels between these two defining moments in our history. Both were surprise attacks occurring on United States soil and led our country into war. Loss of life was great with 2,402 casualties in Pearl Harbor and 2,976 in the east coast attack.

U.S.S. Arizona Memorial Wall
Photo Credit: Noel F. Williams

There are also differences. In 1941, the attack was on a military installation while civilians were the major focus of the 2001 attacks. The government of the country of Japan invaded Hawaii while on September 11 we were attacked by terrorists. The Pearl Harbor attack happened in a concentrated geographic area while three cities were hit during the 9/11 attacks.

How do we keep Pearl Harbor’s history alive for future generations? The number of Pearl Harbor survivors is dwindling and each year it becomes more difficult for the aging veterans to travel to Hawaii. In 2006, a final Hawaii Reunion was held for Pearl Harbor Veterans with over 400 survivors in attendance.

A handful of survivors from the Pearl Harbor attack regularly meet with visitors at the center, so if your trip to Oahu includes a tour of the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial, look for these volunteers who are doing their part to keep history alive for us.

I was fortunate to meet a survivor of these attacks during my last visit and captured our discussion on video. Herbert Weatherwax volunteers at the center three days a week and shares his stories as he talks with visitors at the Memorial. You can hear “Uncle Herby” tell his story here.

About this guest blogger:
April M. Williams is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and a great friend of 808Talk.

In The Beginning – The Breath of Life

Richard Wong — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 20:13:32 +0000

One day the gods Ku (god of war), Lono (god of agriculture and fertility), and Kanaloa (god of sea and the underworld), were playing at the crater of Ulupau, which is currently the Kaneohe Marine Corps Base. From the dust of the earth, they fashioned the shape of man during play. They bid man to rise from the dust and to walk the earth. However, no matter what they did they could not get man to rise out of the dust. Then came Kane, the gentle loving god of all. Kane saw the shape of man fashioned from the dust of the earth. Kane knelt gently next to the figure of man and blew the breath of life into man’s nostrils. That is the story of man in the Hawaiian culture.

This Hawaiian History Moment Brought To You By:
Ohana Walking Tours with special thanks to Richard Wong

Learn more about Ohana Walking Tours by visiting them on the web.
http://www.ohanatours.org

Battleship Missouri Gets a Facelift

April M. Williams — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:45:16 +0000

On October 14, 2009 four tug boats pulled and prodded the 54,889-ton Battleship Missouri two miles to dry dock for a facelift. Restoration specialists will work around the clock for the next three months as the USS Missouri (BB-63) benefits from an $18 million dollar preservation effort. Work will include painting and patching leaks in the hull, installing anti-corrosion systems as well as upgrading plumbing, sewage and electrical systems. Chains will replace the worn rope mooring lines. The ship will have a new tent installed on the fantail to host events. The USS Missouri Memorial Association funded this project through donations, admission fees and product sales.

USS Missouri (BB-63) arrives at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Mark Logico/Released

Mighty Mo is one of several historic sites clustered within Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. An Iowa class battleship, she is 997 feet long and 209 feet high from keel to mast. Original equipment included nine 16 inch guns and twenty 5 inch anti-aircraft guns. She could reach speeds of over 30 knots (35 mph).

The Missouri saw plenty of action in 50 years of service. Earning 11 battle stars, she was the last battleship ever commissioned by the United States government. Built in the Brooklyn New York Navy Yard and christened by Mary Margaret Truman on January 29, 1944 she sailed in time to join the Pacific Fleet during World War II. During her tour of the Pacific Theater she fought in the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. She was in Okinawa when attacked by a Kamikaze pilot who left a lasting dent on her aft starboard side that is still visible today. Perhaps the most memorable event occurred on Sept 2, 1945 in Tokyo Bay. The formal Japanese surrender and signing of the Japaneseâ€“Armistice that ended World War II took place on the Missouri. A commemorative brass plaque embedded in the ship’s teak deck now marks the historic spot.

A key force in the Korean War, the Missouri was the first American ship to arrive in support of the Korean Republic. She sailed into the Korean peninsula and served there from 1950 to 1953. The nine 16 inch guns launched 2,700 pound shells a distance of up to 23 miles. The ship was decommissioned in 1955, destined for the Pacific Reserve Fleet and possibly the scrap yard. In 1986, however, the Mighty Mo was re-commissioned and retrofitted with the most advanced technology available at the time, including Tomahawk missile launchers. In 1990, she took on Iraq and Kuwait targets in “Operation Desert Storm“.

On the 50th anniversary of the December 7, 1941 attack, the Missouri made its final voyage, leading an armada into Pearl Harbor. America’s last active battleship was decommissioned once again in 1992. In 1998, she was donated to the USS Missouri Memorial Association, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to her preservation. The ship was then opened to the public as a museum, a memorial to our people and history, exactly 55 years after she was launched. Her position in Battleship Row off Ford Island honors and watches over the men of the USS Arizona who were entombed below the water just yards away on December 7, 1941. These two ships symbolize the beginning and end of World War II in the Pacific Theater.

The USS Missouri receives over 400,000 visitors who tour the ship each year. The battleship is expected to return to her position on Battleship Row in January 2010.

Designing the Missouri took 175 tons of blueprint paper. The ship was built in three years and required over 3 million man-days to complete the job.
For comparison’s sake, the Missouri is 279 feet longer and 11 feet wider than the USS Arizona. The Mighty Mo is also 5 feet longer and 18 feet wider than the RMS Titanic.
Just how big is the Missouri? If you could stand the ship on end, it would be 332 feet taller than the Washington Monument.
The nine 16-inch guns are the Mighty Mo’s trademark feature. Each gun barrel is approximately 67 feet long, weighs an incredible 116 tons, and can fire a 2,700-pound shell 23 miles in 50 seconds â€” with pinpoint accuracy.
The Missouri was the last U.S. battleship to be launched and the last to be decommissioned. She was also the most formidable. In addition to her massive firepower capabilities, she possessed thick steel armor plating that protected the hull (13.5 inches), the gun turrets (17 inches in front; 13 inches on the sides), the citadel (17 inches), and the conning tower sides (17.3 inches).

USS Missouri via 808Talk on Flickr

Video: Timelapse – Mighty Mo entering drydock via Honolulu Advertiser/USA Today

About this guest blogger:
April M. Williams is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and a great friend of 808Talk.

Learn more about April by visiting her at the websites below.
LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/in/aprilmwilliams
Twitter http://twitter.com/AprilMWilliams
CyberLife Tutors Blog http://cyberlifetutors.com/blog.html
Personal Blog http://aprilmwilliams.wordpress.com

Ohana Walking Tours Brings Hawaii History to Life

April M. Williams — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 11:25:14 +0000

Did you know the Iolani Palace had electric lights and telephone service before the White House and Buckingham Palace? Are you interested in Hawaiian mythology? Looking for an interesting way to spend a weekend morning in Honolulu? If you would like to learn more about Honolulu history, check out the Ohana Walking Tours in downtown Honolulu Saturday and Sunday mornings from 9-11 AM. Ohana is the Hawaiian word for family and your whole gang can join in on these excursions.

Ohana Walking Tours invited our ohana to a Sunday morning jaunt with tour guide Richard Wong, a local expert on the olden days. Richard’s family has lived in Honolulu for five generations. As a young history buff, Richard researched accounts of Honolulu, Oahu and surrounding islands. Over the years he has amassed a vast collection of antique glass bottles through excavation of abandoned buildings and demolished properties. As a Honolulu police officer he often had official access into government buildings and marveled at their splendor.

808Talk Checks Out Ohana Walking Tours

We began our two-hour tour at the famous golden Kamehameha Statue on King Street in downtown Honolulu just across from Iolani Palace. It was easy to identify our guide by the Ohana Walking Tours logo on his shirt. Richard began by telling us about his family’s long history on the island of O’ahu. The tour covers Hawaii history from ancient mythology to current events. Richard covered many topics including:

Four major Gods of nature:
- Kane – God of all
- Kanaloa – God of the sea
- Lono – God of agriculture
- Ku – God of war
Captain Cook’s celebrated landing on the islands and his ultimate demise
Key battles and unification of the islands
History of the Hawaiian monarchy and the only Royal Palace in the United States
Benefactors of Hawaii schools and State Library
Architectural insights

As amateur history buffs ourselves, we were impressed with the quantity and quality of information Richard shared with us. He is an articulate orator and storyteller who kept our attention throughout the tour. When I looked at my watch, it seemed hard to believe two hours had flown by. Richard related these tales to us without use of notes.

Ohana Walking Tours: Video Tutorial

Ohana Tours recommends you call to make advance reservations though if you find yourself downtown on Saturday or Sunday around 9AM, stop by the Kamehameha Statue and look for the tour guide. To make reservations or to learn more visit http://www.ohanatours.org.

About this guest blogger:
April M. Williams is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and a great friend of 808Talk.

Happy 119th Birthday To Duke Kahanamoku

Vernon Brown — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 03:40:07 +0000

Duke Kahanamoku

“In Hawaii, we greet friends, loved ones or strangers with aloha, which means with love. Aloha is the key word to the universal spirit of real hospitality, which makes Hawaii renowned as the worldâ€™s center of understanding and fellowship. Try meeting or leaving people with aloha. You’ll be surprised by their reaction. I believe it and it is my creed. Aloha to you.“

- Duke Paoa Kahanamoku

Happy Birthday Hawaii – 50 Years Of 50th State

Vernon Brown — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 02:15:49 +0000

Hawaii Becomes A State (film)

Hawaii Becomes A State (slideshow)

Oahu Districts And Ahupuaa

Richard Wong — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:00:12 +0000

The Islands of Hawai’i are divided by districts. On the island of Oahu there are 7 districts. Each district is further divided like a pie from the top of a mountain outward to the sea. These divisions are called Ahupuaa. However, there is one exception, the Mokapu peninsula on the island of Oahu. The peninsula is itself an Ahupuaa which does not extend to the top of a mountain range. Mokapu is a world meaning “sacred land” and is derived from Hawaiian moku, meaning: “division”, and kapu, meaning: “sacred.” The Ahupuaa is considered sacred for Ulupau crater (Kaneohe Marine Base), which is the site where the 4 major Hawaiian gods created man.

“In old HawaiÊ»i, ahupuaÊ»a was the common subdivision of the land. It consisted most frequently of a slice of an island that went from the top of the local mountain (volcano) to the shore, following the banks of a stream. AhupuaÊ»a varied in size depending on the economic means of the location and were meant to support roughly equal numbers of people.

AhupuaÊ»a is derived from Hawaiian ahu, meaning: “heap” or “cairn”, and puaÊ»a, pig. The boundary markers for ahupuaÊ»a were traditionally heaps of stones used to put offers to the island chieftain, which was usually a pig.

There may have been two reasons for this kind of subdivision:

travel: in many areas of HawaiÊ»i, it is easier to travel up- and downstream than from stream valley to stream valley.

economy: having all climate zones and economic exploitation zones in each land division ensured that a sudden drought or overfishing would not starve any ahupuaÊ»a or make one dependent on another.

Rule over an ahupuaÊ»a was given out by the ruling chief to subordinate members of the Ê»aliÊ»i. On the larger mountains of Maui and HawaiÊ»i, smaller ahupuaÊ»a extended up to about 6,000-8,000 feet elevation, while the higher elevations of an entire district would be included within a single large ahupuaÊ»a. These ahupuaÊ»a, such as KaÊ»ohe, Keauhou, KapÄpala, KeaÊ»au, KeÊ»anae, PuÊ»u WaÊ»awÊ»a, and HumuÊ»ula, were highly valued both for their size and because they allowed control over items obtainable only from high-elevation areas, such as high-quality stone for tools and Ê»uaÊ»u (Hawaiian Petrel) chicks. They were given to high-ranking Ê»aliÊ»i, or often retained by the high chief personally.“

Mokapu Peninsula

This Hawaiian History Moment Brought To You By:
Ohana Walking Tours with special thanks to Richard Wong

Learn more about Ohana Walking Tours by visiting them on the web.
http://www.ohanatours.org

The Bishop Estate – Kamehameha Schools

Richard Wong — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 12:30:11 +0000

Prior to her death, Ke Ali’i (princess) Pauahi being childless and having no heirs, was the last of the Kamehameha’s. With the help of her husband, Charles Reed Bishop, she setup a will and trust for the use of her estate to provide education for the Native Hawaiian children. Her will created the Kamehameha Schools in honor of her grandfather “Kamehameha The Great.” Now all the children of Hawaii were hers. Along with the Oahu campus, the school has a campus on Maui and the Big Island. The Bishop Estate is the largest non-profit charity for education in the United States.

Bernice Pauahi Bishop
1831-1884

Photo Credit:
Bronze Statue of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop by c_chan808

This Hawaiian History Moment Brought To You By:
Ohana Walking Tours with special thanks to Richard Wong

Learn more about Ohana Walking Tours by visiting them on the web.
http://www.ohanatours.org

Punahou School – Buff ‘n Blue

Richard Wong — Sun, 24 May 2009 07:20:18 +0000

Charles Reed Bishop was a very prominent business figure on Oahu in the 1800′s. So much so that one evening Charles Reed Bishop returned home following work and announced to his wife, Princess Pauahi, that he was to be one of the new Board of Directors for the new Oahu College. This new college was to be built at the site of the springs at Ka Punahou (the New Spring). He further informed the Princess that this school was to be an all white school. Following their conversation the Princess thought, “wouldn’t it be great to have a school for Hawaiians.”

The Oahu College has since become the Punahou School. That is why the school insignia is represented with the O with the wings on the side, which refers back to its history as the Oahu College. At present the Punahou School is one of the top college prep schools in the Western United States. It is also the alma mater of the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama.

The Punahou Carnival is one of many ongoing traditional
events that take place on campus annually.

Photo Credit: c_chan808

This Hawaiian History Moment Brought To You By:
Ohana Walking Tours with special thanks to Richard Wong

Learn more about Ohana Walking Tours by visiting them on the web.
http://www.ohanatours.org

Diamond Head – Hike Into History

Richard Wong — Thu, 14 May 2009 06:46:02 +0000

Most of us are familiar with the popular Diamond Head hike. In fact it is almost a must do while on Oahu. However, many don’t know the history behind this Oahu landmark. Before Diamond Head received its current name, the Native Hawaiians knew it as Le’ahi. That changed when naive British sailors in the 19th century thought there were diamonds in the crater, which later was discovered to only be calcite crystals in the lava rock. In 1898 when Hawaii was annexed by the United States it added harbor defense for obvious reasons. Diamond Head then became Fort Ruger when it was outfitted with an eight-cannon battery of 12 inch caliber mortars in the crater of Diamond Head. This specific area was named Battery Harlow. The mortars were capable of launching 700-pound deck piercing projectiles at a max range of eleven miles. The crater was a great way to hide the weapons. The crater was great for hiding but bad for seeing the targets on the ocean. Before the age of radar, targets were located with telescopes and positions were telephoned back to the battery.

In 1908 began the unenviable task of constructing a proper observation. Much of this work was done with pick and shovel by hand and the construction material was lifted using cables up the side of the mountain. In the end there was a 4 level observation built for smaller guns, sightings, and coordinating with the Fort DeRussy commander which was nearby, and overall commander which was situated at the top. All the levels were connected with a spiral staircase. These levels are hard to see and for good reason.

Much of this great defense is owed to Secretary of War William H. Taft (1857-1919) who recognized the need to defend the harbors of Honolulu. Later in his life he was elected as the 27th president.

808Talk Hawaii: Top Of Diamond Head

This Hawaiian History Moment Brought To You By:
Ohana Walking Tours with special thanks to Richard Wong

Learn more about Ohana Walking Tours by visiting them on the web.
http://www.ohanatours.org

Close But Not Close Enough

Richard Wong — Fri, 08 May 2009 04:05:57 +0000

Before King Kamehameha ruled the Hawaiian Islands another ruler by the name of Kalanikupule was supreme on Oahu. Recent victory on Oahu led the chief to grow very ambitious and had his sites set on Kamehameha and the Big Island. These two already had a tumultuous past, which included previous battles without a clear victor. On January 1, 1795, the Oahu King initiated his plan, which included a meticulous plot to take ships from its white owner William Brown and use them to invade Kamehameha’s territory. While some of the ships men were dispersed inland, the Hawaiians surprised the remaining few on the ship killing Brown and others. Kalanikupule prepared his war party of approximately 40, forcing the remaining sailors to sail the Prince Lee Boo and the Jackal for the Big Island. However, instead of sailing down the coast the acting captain steered abruptly out to sea and in several minutes overwhelmed with bravery and perhaps some luck the outmanned crew regained control of the ships. Kalanikupule was then sent ashore and the ships sailed away. Upon hearing this Kamehameha felt he was as strong as he would ever be and in the early months in 1795 engaged in battle with the Oahu chief and the rest is history…

This Hawaiian History Moment Brought To You By:
Ohana Walking Tours with special thanks to Richard Wong

Learn more about Ohana Walking Tours by visiting them on the web.
http://www.ohanatours.org

Commemorating 50 Years Of The 50th State

Vernon Brown — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 07:03:23 +0000

Next year Hawaii will celebrate it’s 50th year as a state in the greatest nation on earth, the United States of America.

In March 1959, both houses of Congress passed the Hawaii Admission Act and U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed it into law. On June 27 of that year, a referendum was held asking residents of Hawaii to vote on accepting the statehood bill. Hawaii voted at a ratio of 17 to 1 to accept. There has been criticism, however, of the Statehood plebiscite, because the only choices were to accept the Act or to remain a territory, without addressing the issues of legality surrounding the overthrow. Despite the criticism, the United Nations decolonization committee later removed Hawaii from the United Nations list of Non-Self-Governing Territories.

Hawaii was officially admitted to the Union on August 21, 1959, making it the 50th state. Its capital is Honolulu on the island of Oahu. The most recent census of 2005 puts the state’s population at 1,275,194.

“HONOLULU â€“ To kick off the commemoration of Hawai’i's golden anniversary of statehood, the 50th Anniversary of Statehood Commission today began airing the first of 50 Voices of Statehood radio and television vignettes.

The vignettes, which are being recorded by the award-winning Searider Productions of Wai’anae High School, feature personal perspectives on statehood and Hawai’i's history from 50 residents representing the stateâ€™s diverse ethnic, cultural, religious, political, social and economic backgrounds. Each week over the next year, a different vignette will air on six television stations and 60 radio stations statewide. An interactive online forum will allow teachers and students to incorporate the vignettes into their classroom discussions.

The first of the 50 Voices of Statehood vignettes features Dody Brown. Although she was only six at the time Hawai’i became a state, a young Dody was featured in a well-known 1959 photograph holding a newspaper announcing “STATEHOOD” in big, bold letters.

The 50th Anniversary of Statehood Commission has planned a comprehensive year-long series of events and activities, with a special focus on education, to honor the 50th anniversary of Hawai’i's admission to the United States. The 50 Voices of Statehood series, as well as information on the Commission, its members and the commemorative plans may be found at www.hawaii.gov/statehood.“

Source: Hawaii.gov

Links:
50th Anniversary of Statehood
50 Years of Hawaiian States
808Talk Hawaii: 50th State