Kipuka Database

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) recently released an new interactive online tool that lets users explore native Hawaiian land, culture, and history through maps.

The mission of the Kipuka Database is to create a repository of knowledge where such information can be easily accessed, to develop a virtual mo‘oku‘auhau (genealogy) of land tenure in Hawai‘i, and to provide an opportunity for individuals to forge new relationships between themselves and the ‘aina (land). The thoroughly modern and dynamic maps also exemplify the ancient concept of information being embedded in the ‘aina (land), encoded in the wahi inoa (place name). A sense of "place" was and continues to be a foundational aspect of traditional kanaka maoli (Native Hawaiian) identity.

SeeSpectrum | Nike's #BETRUE Collection

Our SeeSpectrum project just got a little more fabulous. In June 2013, Nike launched their #BETRUE Collection in celebration of sport as a universal language. For nearly 15 years, Nike has partnered with the LGBT community to raise awareness of LGBT issues in athletics. All profits from the collection will be donated to the LGBT Sports Coalition to support the goal of ending discrimination in sports. The #BETRUE collection includes flip flops, tees, tanks, and an iPhone 5 case.

If that's not fab enough, the launch of #BETRUE coincides with Nike's 2013 LGBT Sports Summit, the second round of the annual event which brings together leaders from across the LGBT sports movement.

SeanChron | Oprah's Ono Organics

Being a fan of organic farming and Maui, I was really pleased to see that Oprah has joined the growing list of celebrities that are getting into organic farming. In my opinion, the more celebs that support organic farming, the better as it only serves to raise awareness even more on the issues.

In true Oprah style, they debuted the farm in a big way...Oprah and long time friend Bob Greene were on the cover of the June 2013 O Magazine. The accompanying article on her farm venture, Dig It! How Oprah's Growing Healthier—and You Can Too, is packed full of great sustainable agriculture information and tips. Even better than just organic farming, they're doing their best to honor people and place throughout the process.

Oprah is working with Bio-Logical Capital, a company that specializes in sustainable agriculture and land development. Bio-Logical works in multiple states but I was impressed that they have a dedicated office and team in Hawaii. Maybe I'll have some of Oprah's ono produce in a restaurant next time on Maui.

Here's a great article on the Oprah's farm venture and Guy Kaulukukui, Hawaii Direcctor and Senior Vice President of Bio-Logical Capital in Maui News.

SeanChron | Gift for Saaduuts

Saw that a little gift was left for Saaduuts this morning on my walk into work, the fellow doing the Canoe carving in S. Lake Union here in Seattle....nice way to start the day — at Lake Union Park. Below is a short video on Saaduuts:

Ka Hikina O Ka Lā at UH Maui College

Ka Hikina O Ka Lā is a new program at the University of Hawai’i Maui College (UHMC) to provide a learning environment that utilizes modern scientific technology and instruction, complemented with cultural knowledge and practices. The program is a collaboration between the native Hawaiian community, UHMC, and the National Science Foundation (NSF) with the goal of increasing the participation of native Hawaiians in higher education, in particular Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

Geometric Trays

Our hexagon crush continues with the Kaleido Trays by Swedish designer Clara von Zweigbergk available at A+R. You can mix and match the geometric shapes to fit your organizational or presentation needs, all with a bit of science and graphic design edge.

Quantum Console

The Molecule Console Table from Casamidi is far more than a mere table...it is both an art object and functional sculpture that lets onlookers peer into the very building blocks of the universe. The designers, Ann-Marie Midy and Jorge Almada, were inspired by a German model of a molecule and like many other pieces in their diverse collection, the final design is quite stunning.

Wood Blocks for Grown Ups

A new lamp collection by New York interior designer Kimille Taylor re-imagines classic wood block toys to create modern lamps with bold graphic lines.