Aloha, 

As you may have heard, Mesa Air Group recently announced it has sought protection under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. We would like to provide you with additional information regarding this financial restructuring and what it means for go! Mokulele. 

go! has served the Hawaii inter-island market for over three years. We remain fully committed to continuing these services uninterrupted for years to come. Mesa provides regional jet services to go! Mokulele under a fight services agreement. 
The joint venture itself is its own separate entity and is not included in the Mesa Chapter 11 proceedings. 

On behalf of Mesa Airlines, I want to emphasize our commitment to the go! Mokulele operation and assure you that go! Mokulele is operating its full flight schedule. Tickets will be sold and honored, all terms and conditions governing tickets purchased remain the same, our frequent flyer program remains intact, and we intend to continue to service you with the low cost, high quality service you have come to rely on. In fact, this restructuring will be virtually unnoticeable to you! 

Importantly, Mesa Air Group and its subsidiaries are not going out of business. Chapter 11 means reorganization, not liquidation. In fact, Mesa took this action to preserve the business. The Company will continue to operate its business uninterrupted. 

Mesa has sufficient cash to continue funding its day-to-day and ongoing operations, and I and the rest of Mesa’s management team are committed to its long-term future. This future includes continued, uninterrupted service to go! Mokulele. 

Understandably, you may be wondering how and why this happened. Over the past two years, we have worked closely with our lessors, creditors and other constituents to restructure our financial obligations. These efforts have led to the elimination of over $160 million of debt obligations, the return of a number of aircraft, and the restructuring of inventory management and engine overhaul agreements. We are nonetheless faced with an untenable financial situation resulting primarily from our continued lease obligations on aircraft excess to our current requirements. After careful consideration, the Company determined that a Chapter 11 filing provides the most effective and efficient means to restructure with minimal impact on the business and our customers. This process will allow us to eliminate excess aircraft to better match our needs and give us the flexibility to align our business model to the changing regional airline marketplace, ensuring a leaner and more competitive company poised for future success. 

You have our commitment that we will continue to update you throughout this process. Moreover, we invite you to visit the special reorganization section of the website 
www.mesa-air.com/restructuring. We truly value your business and are committed to meeting your travel needs – now and in the future. 

Regards, 

Jonathan G. Ornstein 
Chairman and Chief Executive 
Mesa Air Group 

Customer Q&A

GIVING BACK

 

Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund

Words :: Kirsten Whatley

“On your way back, you scan the sand for baby turtles emerging from another nest, instinctively trying to reach their saltwater home”

 

 

Ensuring that Hawai‘i’s endangered sea life has a future means making sure they get off to a good start. This a primary focus of the Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund (HWF). They help caretake the fragile ecosystems ringing the islands of Maui and the Big Island, and the creatures that live there— including critically endangered species such as the Hawaiian monk seal and hawksbill sea turtle. Started in 1996 by two former National Marine Fisheries Service scientists, Bill Gilmartin and Hannah Bernard, the HWF added Cheryl King to their team in 2000, where she spearheads the hawksbill nesting monitoring program on Maui.

 

 

 Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund, Maui

 

In addition to the volunteer projects described below, Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund encourages snorkelers and divers on all islands to report hawksbill sightings for their database of near-shore turtle populations. Hawksbills live right alongside the more common green sea turtle (honu in Hawaiian), but there are visible differences—see www.wildhawaii.org for details. And if you have an underwater camera, taking pictures is the best for documenting a hawksbill sighting, while recording location, date, time, water depth, habitat type, behavior, reaction to you, along with other relevant information. Visit the HWF website for more, or contact Cheryl directly at (808) 385-5464.

 

___________________________________________________________

 

Give-Back Location: Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund, Maui

 

Sleeping on the beach has its lures—star-laden skies, sand in your hair, the lullaby of waves tumbling at the foot of your bed. Then the alarm goes off and you’re up again. It’s 2:00 a.m., and time to do another beach walk in search of a nesting hawksbill turtle—she’ll be appearing at the same place she has returned to every few years for a decade now.

 

On your way back, you scan the sand for baby turtles emerging from another nest, instinctively trying to reach their saltwater home. Not yet. You reset the alarm and lean back against a cushion of sand, breathing in the seaweed air, knowing that protecting these creatures from predators, and redirecting them away from lights and toward the ocean, gives your camping experience true purpose.

 

For those of you more prone to sun seeking than night vision, you can join the Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund response team that watches over Hawaiian monk seals when they haul out onto Maui’s beaches. You’ll take turns guarding a taped-off zone around the lounging seal, while educating onlookers about these glorious creatures and their behaviors.

 

On regular occasions, the HWF also takes to the shores with gloves and trash bags, picking up litter where it doesn’t belong. And they run Makai Watch, where you can help trained naturalists spread the good word of respecting the marine environment.

 

Contact: E-mail preferred.

Hannah Bernard

Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund

P.O. Box 790637

Pa‘ia, HI 96779

(808) 280-8124

[email protected]

www.wildhawaii.org

 

(For HWF beach cleanup projects on the Big Island, go to www.preservehawaii.org, click on Find Volunteer Opportunities, then “Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund” under Hawai‘i Island.)

 

This article is adapted from Preserving Paradise: Opportunities in Volunteering for Hawaii’s Environment. Courtesy of Island Heritage Publishing.

 

 

 

 

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DISCOVER KAILUA

Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks 

 

 

Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks

 

 

Kayak Tours Oahu

 

The windward side of Oahu is a hidden gem that many visitors to Hawaii rarely get a chance to see.  Kailua Bay offers miles of remote, white sandy beaches with gentle surf and pristine turquoise water.  Just around the corner sits Lanikai Beach, voted one of the Top 10 Beaches in the world; lying just offshore sit the Mokulua Islands, creating an unforgettable view of this tropical paradise. 

One of the best ways to explore this area up close is by kayak.  Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks offers guided eco-tours of the area and provide everything you need for a one-of-a-kind adventure.  “There are no hotels here so generally, Kailua and Lanikai are locals’ beaches.  Visitors feel it’s a huge adventure to get out to the Mokulua Islands … to leave a main Hawaiian island and paddle off to an off-shore island is truly a unique experience,” says long-time tour guide, Steve Haumschild. 

 “The standard four-hour, guided eco-tour is more than shuttling visitors out to the different islands. We try to teach people about the culture, history, geology and vulcanology of the area so when they leave, they learn more about the ocean and hopefully gain a little more respect for the ocean and its creatures, all the while enjoying the natural beauty of Hawaii,” says Haumschild. 

The eco-tour caters to all levels of kayakers- from beginners to advanced paddlers.  Expert guides keep a relaxed pace so visitors can enjoy the view while gliding along the calm and clear protected waters of Kailua Bay.  Mellow waves allow visitors to gently surf their way to a picture perfect landing onto the beach at Mokunui, the larger of the two islands.  Both islands are protected seabird sanctuaries and upon arrival, visitors are first informed about the islands’ fragile ecosystem and protected wildlife, particularly the nesting Wedgetail Shearwaters.  They also learn how to explore the area without impacting the environment.  

The 20 minute eco-tour includes rock crab and fish sightings and a brief lesson on how the Hawaiian Island chain was formed.  The back of the island reveals beautiful tide pools teaming with endemic creatures, sea salt, the famous Dog’s Head land formation and endless ocean views.  Humpback whale sightings are common during the winter months.  For many, a dip into one of the larger tide pools is the highlight of the day.  One visitor recalled, “jumping into the tide pool was the coolest thing we did … Queen’s Bath, as they call it, where you could just completely float on the water’s surface … like having your own private Jacuzzi with a view of the ocean.” 

After the brief hike, kayakers are treated to a well-deserved lunch.  It’s the perfect opportunity to relax and soak up the surroundings before heading back to the main island.  Once you try it you will realize that kayaking to the Mokulua Islands is the perfect way to explore this hidden slice of paradise! 

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Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks has been a water sports authority in Hawaii for over 25 years.  Their award-winning Hawaiian Kayaking Adventure is led by a team of certified professional guides and instructors, dedicated to upholding the highest standards of eco-tourism and eco-friendly practices in Hawaii.  The company prides itself on being the safest and most professional in the industry with a team of guides experienced in ecology, history, vulcanology and marine biology.  Discover their favorite ‘secret’ spots throughout the bay where you’ll experience deserted islands, marine life, sea birds, great snorkeling, kayak surfing, hidden tide pools and secluded coves.   

Beyond paddling, Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks also specializes in kayak rentals, windsurfing, kite surfing, surfing, body boarding, snorkeling, bicycling and stand-up paddling.  Experience the natural beauty of Hawaii while participating in your favorite water sport.  The only impact you’ll leave behind is your own footprints in the sand! 

 

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ARTS

 

Solomon Enos

 

" I am trying to continue the work of my ancestors by engaging new forms of media to share their stories with the world"

 

 

 

Solomon Enos - Hawaiian Artist, Painter

 

Solomon Enos’ first commission was as a 6th grader at Makaha Elementary School for a 5th grade curriculum project. After that, he continued to do small commissions, and had his first exhibit at a Waiÿanae community festival when he was 21. Solomon currently resides in Nu`uanu with his family. Drawing much of his inspiration from both his yohana and the land around him, Solomon hopes to translate the deeper meanings of his culture to the world.

 

Where were you born?

I was born in Honolulu and raised Makaha.


How does your sense of place influence your art?

I am perpetually absorbing information, both historic and current, and attempting to translate that through my work. It is a way to try and understand how my ancestors perceived reality.


What is the inspiration for your art?
At the most basic level, simply the creation of art is in itself something that excites me. Coupled with that  the idea that I can possibly change realty with concepts that I can help translate through my work.

 

What artwork are you most proud of, or which one is your favorite?

Interestingly enough, it is a series of 400 drawings that I did for the emerging Polyfantastica project. Each image representing 100 years of a 40,000 year time line. Even though they are still drawings and will still need to color them, the basic ideas are out of my head. 

 

If I had to choose a favorite, it would be the cover of the Hi`iaka book, which helped to inspire the Polyfantastica project. 

 

Why do you think art and creativity is important for Hawaii?
Because there are so many stories that need to be translated in a myriad of media that can help to remind us how to take care of these islands. and ultimately the world. We are at such a crucial time as a species, where we can do so much lasting harm or lasting good. Now is the time to look back to our elder cultures, of whom we are all descendants, to help guide us to a better reality

 

Your art is futuristic, yet grounded in Hawaii so, what are your thoughts on the future?

To use Polyfantastica for an example: Humans have evolved beyond warfare, and peace is sustained by harmony with the natural world and a perpetual seeking of knowledge and wonder. The real heroes of the future are not military heroes, but explores who seek to understand deeper mysteries of reality. These are concepts that I have found in my research of traditional Hawaiian stories as well as the writings of such luminaries as Carl Sagan. Simply put, there is a better reality then the one we live in. Like the canoe  hidden in the koa tree, it is waiting for us to bring it forth.

 

What makes you innov8tive?

Well, maybe it is because I am trying to continue the work of my ancestors by engaging new forms of media to share their stories with the world. Maybe, if Hawai`i is to survive in this new globalised reality, we need to become like our shape -shifting ancestors in order to survive the paradox of being part of the collective human family and of being uniquely Hawaiian. Our stories can help to perpetuate our Identity as we are woven into to the fabric of a much larger human story.

 

 

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goTeam , posted on Dec 30 2009, 09:56

PERSPECTIVES

 

HULA

There is perhaps nothing more conceptually elusive than the future.

 

Sarah Kamalei Noyle - Hula Dancer

 

 

Who: Sarah Kamalei Noyle Hawaiian Name: Kamalei I ka Poli, A professional hula dancer, 21 years old. Born and raised in Hawaii. Ethnic background: English/Chinese

 

Where (Halau): Halau I Ka Wekiu- Kumu: Michael Casupang and Karl Veto Baker Hula Lineage from Aunt Maiki Aiu Lake who was kumu to Robert Cazimero,who, in turn, is Kumu to Casupang and Baker.

 

When: Started Hula at 7 years old

 

Currently: A solo hula dancer weekly at the Moana Surfrider at Sunset. Also a dancer with Tihati Productions at the Hilton and Royal Hawaiian Hotel. She also has her own hula line called “Kamalei”, a contemporary and classic- sophisticated and sassy hula line reflecting an elegant, beautiful Hawaii. ~Kamalei~ was originally created for the contemporary and sophisticated hula dancer, Sarah Kamalei Noyle. As inspiration, consultant and spokes- model, Sarah has danced wearing  ~Kamalei~ in Honolulu, Tokyo, and Sapporo. She has chosen colors, fabrics and designs to reflect the beauty of the dances, the movement of the dancer and the sole of the music.  Each piece has been created to enhance the story told by the hula.

 

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-2-

 

Q&A with Rico Jimenez:

 

 

 



Who is Rico Jimenez besides the surfer? A Local boy who loves his Fish and Poi.

Classic or Modern Cars/Trucks? All Modern! I love Anything Loud and Fast! Big trucks and street bikes!

Your favorite hole in the wall restaurant? I love Pupukea Grill! It’s a little plate  lunch truck by my house that has the meanest grinds! Garins for broke your hip!

Hawaiian Sun or Aloha Maid? Hawaiian Sun, Guava nectar!

Finish the following: Shaved Ice is... Mean when with a honey girl on a hot day

Most unreal surf spot you have been to (Not Hawaii): Teahupoo, Tahiti is mean!!

How are you innov8ative? I don’t know if I’m Innov8ative....but I do what I like and don’t really care if everyone is into it or not, as long as it makes me happy.. I guess the key is to never stop learning.

 

 

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-3-

 

Future Thought

Words: John A. Sweeney

There is perhaps nothing more conceptually elusive than the future.

 

What do you really know about the future? What do you think you know about the future? More to the point, how do you know to think about the future? What!?! There is perhaps nothing more conceptually elusive than the future- that which has yet to come, that which remains shrouded in mystery, that which depends on the past and can never be found in the present...THE FUTURE! Thankfully, professional futurists (yes, there is such a thing) ponder these questions, and they offer some handy guidelines for thinking about the future, which is not as easy as you might think!

 

 

 

 

It just so happens that the Political Science Department at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa is home to one of the world's foremost futurists—Dr. Jim Dator.  As Director of the Hawaii Research Center for Futures Studies, head of the Mānoa School of Futures Studies, and the patriarch of college-level Futures Studies, Dr. Dator offers seven directives—conspicuously known as Dator's “Laws” of the Future—for understanding and engaging in the practice of futures studies.

 

1)       “The future” cannot be “studied” because “the future” does not exist! The notion that the future is determinable and singular does not jive with futurists. There are, in fact, futures and one can study images of the future—think alternate universes—which represent potential visions of the future.

2)       “The future” cannot be “predicted,” but “alternative futures” can, and should be “forecast.” Futurists plot scenarios as to what the future can and might be for an organization, a nation, the world, etc. Similarly, individuals can and ought to work towards building one's own alternative or preferred future—a specialty of the Mānoa School of Futures Studies.

3)       There is no such thing as a “best case scenario” or a “worst case scenario.” All futures present obstacles and opportunities, and it is the task of the futurist to identify and interpret the possibilities and potentialities of the futures under consideration.

4)       What is often popularly, or even professionally, considered to be “the most likely future” is, in all probability, one of the least likely futures. A look at the past should tell one that the future is not easily identifiable—thus, one should, in the words of the Greek philosopher Heraclitus, “expect the unexpected” concerning the future.

5)       “The future” cannot be “predicted,” but “preferred futures” can and should be envisioned, invented, implemented, continuously evaluated, revised, and re-envisioned. Like the streets of Honolulu, futures remain under permanent construction and should be revisited consistently for upgrades and expansions.

6)       Any useful idea about the future should appear to be ridiculous. Airplanes? The Internet? All were at one time completely outlandish and unimaginable concepts, yet we cannot imagine a world—certainly a present...perhaps even a future—without them.

7)       If futurists expect to be useful, they should expect to be ridiculed and for their ideas initially to be rejected. Considering the above, this requires no explanation.

 

A good futurist is not afraid to ask the same question twice: how do you know to think about the future(s) now? Futures Studies requires intellectual discipline and rigor tempered with an ability to laugh at one's self—as Dator's seven directives suggest, there are many absurd things that come out of the mouths of futurists, but occasionally they have been heard to mutter, “I told you so!”

 

 

 

 

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PERSPECTIVES

Title: ORGANIK BEAUTY: Summer Rayne Oakes

Words: Malie Moran

Images: Aaron K. Yoshino 

 

Summer Rayne Oakes has taken the fashion industry by storm. Her enthusiastic passion for the environment inspires change from the top down. Her brilliant way of speaking demands attention to the issues close to her heart. Her captivating eyes draw you in to a world of good.

During a meeting in Kona, I had the opportunity to interview the intelligent and beautiful Summer Rayne.

 

 Summer Rayne Oakes

 

 It’s really sexy when someone stands for something. – Summer Rayne Oakes

 

 

 

Why Fashion?

I turned to fashion to make a difference. After I graduated from Cornell University in Environmental Sciences, I began publishing industry papers on waste management. Unfulfilled by this, I realized I wanted to reach a broader audience. Fashion, an industry based on consumption, was the communication route I went after.

 

I’m really trying to change a paradigm in the fashion industry by using my expertise to assist companies like Tommy Hilfiger as a partner not just a face.

I’ve been labeled as an eco-model, or model with a conscience. Its very simple, I don’t work with brands that don’t have the same ideals.

 

Recent Projects?

One recent project I’m involved in, “Don’t Bag the Indonesian Rainforest” focuses on educating companies about the shopping bag industry. We are trying to stop companies like Asian Pulp and Paper from converting rainforests into paper plantations.

We’ve contacted a lot of the fashion companies, who are unknowingly buying their shopping bags from rainforests in Indonesia. Brands like Tiffany & Co. were quick to make the switch. I think the fashion companies have a great platform, and even though it’s a small component of paper pulping, it is a first effort.

 

Tell us about your book.

Style, Naturally is a book I wrote for women who love style, but may not have ‘environment’ or ‘green’ in their lexicon. Part of my idea of creating Style, Naturally was to show how ethical fashion and beauty products can fit your way of living.

 

Hawaii Favorites?

I love the ocean. I plan to do some snorkeling and sea kayaking while I’m here. Exploring Hawaii that way is such a beautiful experience. A few years ago, I took the road to Hana (Maui) and it was so therapeutic.

The resources of Hawaii are so beautiful and rich. The fruit is so fantastic and full of flavor here.

 

How can others make change?

No matter what you do, build environmental ethos into your line of work. The environment connects us as people. We are entering into these new spaces and coming out better on the other side.

 

 

 

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IN MOTION

 

Manoa Falls Trail

Manoa Falls Trail

 

Manoa Falls Hiking Trail

 

Just a short trek from the concrete of Honolulu, deep in Manoa valley, you will discover a tranquil place to spend half the day hiking, running or walking. The roughly 1.5 mile Manoa Falls trail starts just a few steps from the 200 acre Lyon Arboretum, where you can view native plants or a Loi field. The trail landscape continually changes, but never looses an ancient feel as it meanders along a small creek. On a dry day the trail is a leisure stroll, but when the rains come navigation can be a bit slippery. In about 20minutes of hiking the adventure seemingly ends with a rewarding view of Manoa Falls. But don't get trapped into taking a picture and turning around, like most of the people that explore this part of the valley. Rather just before the waterfall, on the left hand-side, you will catch the glimpse of a trail that wanders higher up, and deeper into the valley. If you have the time, take this road-less-traveled for a rewarding view of the next valley over.

 

As the trail switchbacks through exciting vegetation and vistas it crosses a bright green bamboo forest., which is always a pleasant treat for the eyes and makes you wish you could scale to the top of their delicate stems, like the movies. Sometimes you can catch sight of a white parrot and other bird life. Make sure you turn around before you get too tired or run out of water, as you will need to take the same trail back.  If you are looking to explore the simple beauty of Hawaii’s valleys, then Manoa Falls trail is a must-see for locals and visitors alike.  

 

Getting there: Head towards the mountain on University Ave., driving past the University of Hawaii campus. Turn right onto Manoa Road. The road dead-ends at the trail head and a dirt parking lot.  You can also park before the road dead-ends in the nearby neighborhood.

 

Details: The Manoa Falls trail is open year round. Bring water. Please stay on the trail and out of the water.  The Arboretum is open to the public on weekdays from 9 AM to 4 PM, and on Saturday from 9 AM to 3 PM; admission is free.

 

 

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SHOP

Title: Walk the Waialae Line

Words: Leena Haija

Images: “This roughly two-mile stretch is just the place to find the perfect piece, grab a great little lunch at…”

 

 

 

For some of us, shopping is not just a hobby- it is a lifestyle.  We are always on the hunt to find the perfect shoe, the perfect bag or just that perfect figure flattering dress.  Sometimes our need for perfection requires us to explore in the most unlikely places.  Considered one of the best walking neighborhoods in Honolulu, Waialae Avenue is filled with street cafés, specialty shops, restaurants and the finest selection of consignment shops on the island. 

 

One fabulous stop is NiNi’s Boutique Exchange located on Koko head and Waialae Ave.  This quant little consignment store is bursting with designer brands and accessories.  Owner Nini accepts only designer/name brand clothing and majority of these fabulous finds still have the tags on.  With brands such as BCBG, Velvet, Christian Dior and many more, you are sure to find fabulous pieces below regular retail prices.

 

Sugarcane is a charming consignment store nestled below a vast selection of delicious eateries. This lovely, eco-friendly store located on 11th Ave features vintage artwork, home décor and women and children’s clothing.  With a welcoming environment, affordable prices and unique pieces, this adorable little boutique will quickly become one of your favorite stops.

 

Situated at the bottom of Waialae Ave is Pzazz, this hidden gem carries gently used designer clothing at 90% below retail prices.  From Manolo Blahnik shoes and Louis Vuitton bags to Chanel accessories, this is a must stop for any fashionista on a fixed budget. 

 

Many shops are located within walking distance, it’s important to remember to wear your comfortable flats and bring your shopping tote. This roughly two-mile stretch is just the place to find the perfect piece, grab a great little lunch at Café Laufer or just indulge in a mani/pedi at the numerous nail salons. 

 

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goTeam , posted on Dec 30 2009, 08:50

WHERE DO [RAINBOWS] COME FROM?

 

Where do Rainbows Come from?

 

1.  A rainbow is the amazing product of the interaction between the two fundamentals of life: light and water

2.  Rainbows are created when light is refracted or bent by raindrops – reflecting the light back to your eyes.

3.  Each color is refracted at a different angle, which allows for the separation of the colors

4.  The sun is always directly behind you when you look in the direction of a rainbow.

5.  Usually you cannot observe the entire circle of a rainbow because the earth gets in the way.

6.  The double rainbow (or supernumerary rainbow) can be seen when the sunrays follow slightly different paths through the same raindrops.   

7.  Two people can never see the same rainbow because the raindrops are always moving and the light is different depending on each persons time and place.  

8.  Kahalapuna, the legendary maiden from Manoa Valley, also goes by the name of Kaikawahine Anuenue; the Rainbow Maiden.

 

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DISCOVER NORTH SHORE

Hookah History

 

 

 

Following the European introduction of tobacco in India, the hookah, or water pipe originated in the north-western provinces of India nearly a millennia ago.  These primitive hookahs were simple and rugged in design, usually made from a coconut shell base and tube with a head attached.  They were designed to smoke opium and hashish, which has created a negative stigma for the hookah being used today.  The popularity of the hookah spread through the Persian Kingdom, which included Pakistan, Afghanistan, and much of the Middle Asia and Arab parts of Northern Africa. 

On its way through Persia, the hookah adopted a larger head for the smoking of Tombeik, a dark tobacco grown in modern day Iran.  Tombeik was rinsed and packed in the head of the hookah where hot coal was applied directly to the wet tobacco, which gave it a stronger flavor.  These larger heads and style of hookah were referred to as ghelune in Persia.  Today, the hookahs designed in the Persian Empire are still hand-crafted and cut from wood.  In the 19th century, cigarettes gained in popularity due to its availability and portability.  Women who often stayed in the home, continued to smoke the ghelune for entertainment and as a favored pasttime.

About 500 years ago, the hookah made its way into Turkey and experienced a surge in popularity among the upper class and intellectuals leading to another design alteration.  The hookah grew in size and complexity resembling the designs we see today.  Brass and glass replaced wood and intricate paintings and mosaics were added for beauty and elegance.  Centuries later, hookah coffee shops sprang up and were commonplace throughout Turk society.  A hookah bar waiter rivaled the stature of the modern chef because of the skill required to prepare the hookah for smoking.  In addition to mastering the art of packing and moistening the hookah, bar waiters were schooled in the often-complex etiquette of hookah smoking.  For example, it was considered rude to touch the coals during any step of the preparation or smoking process.

Today, hookah bars are social places where people meet to discuss politics and current events. In Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, the hookah bars are for men only, though in some Muslim countries the hookah is considered haram, or forbidden.

In most hookah-smoking countries, Naklia shisha is served.  Naklia shisha is a combination of foreign tobaccos, honey molasses and dried fruit.  Filtered through ice water, the smoke is made cool and soothing to the user.  Slowly, society is accepting the hookah as more of a pipe for tobacco instead of illegal drugs, as was its original use. The hookah has been growing in popularity in the United States and Europe since the experimentation of the 1960's. Today, hookahs can be found in every college smoke shop and Middle Eastern market throughout the United States and is also growing in popularity in Japan.  Hookah bars and lounges have become popular all over the world, including right here in Hawaii.

 For more information about the hookah, or to learn more about purchasing your own hookah, go to www.chronichawaiian.com or visit Brian Santos the North Shore Smoke Shop in Haleiwa.

 

 

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