Hawai‘i creative individuals are attracted to the historic Johnson house, with Brennen Cunningham finding inspiration in its enduring nature to elevate his craft.

Following devastating fires in Maui, Hawaiʻi, chefs and the culinary community have rallied to provide support and nourishment to the victims. With over 115 people killed, hundreds missing, and more than 2,200 buildings destroyed, grassroots efforts have been crucial in the absence of immediate government response. Organizations like Chef Hui and Common Ground Collective, alongside local chefs and businesses, have prepared and distributed thousands of meals and produce boxes. Efforts include sourcing local food, maintaining quality, and ensuring sustainability through federal and state funding. The community's resilience and solidarity are evident as they work to feed those affected and support the local food industry amidst a drop in tourism.

Hāna Kū is a unique food festival in East Maui that brings together Hawai‘i chefs and the local community to celebrate and integrate traditional hunting, fishing, and farming practices. Organized by Ala Kukui, a Native Hawaiian-run retreat center, the festival fosters a deep connection between chefs and local hunter-gatherers. Chefs like Mark Noguchi, Isaac Bancaco, and others participate in conservation efforts, learn from the community, and cook using locally sourced ingredients. The event emphasizes the importance of cultural heritage, community engagement, and the perpetuation of traditional knowledge and subsistence practices.

Hawaiʻi's local food movement is gaining momentum with an increase in locally grown mushrooms, reducing reliance on imports and supporting self-sufficiency. Farmers like Fung Yang of Small Kine Farm and pioneers like Bob Stanga have led the way, with chefs such as Dave Caldiero and Ed Kenney of Mud Hen Water prioritizing local ingredients. The state's isolation and historical reliance on imported food are being challenged by a tripling of mushroom farms from 2012 to 2017 and a significant contribution to the local economy. The article highlights the challenges and successes of local mushroom farming, the commitment of chefs to source locally, and the broader trend of returning to indigenous crops alongside new additions like mushrooms.

The article by Viola Gaskell discusses the closure of Premium Sofa Club, a popular underground music venue in Hong Kong, due to unsustainable rent increases and the challenges faced by indie music venues in the city. The owner, Lucas Luraka, started the club out of frustration with the mainstream club scene and the lack of venues playing music he enjoyed. The article also touches on the plight of another indie venue, Hidden Agenda, which is shutting down after conflicts with authorities and the arrest of its owner and foreign musicians. The piece highlights the difficulties of running indie venues in Hong Kong's regulatory environment and the disparity in treatment between mainstream and underground clubs. Lucas Luraka expresses hope for the future of electronic music in Hong Kong but remains uncertain about finding a venue that matches his tastes, hinting at the possibility of opening another club.

Hawaii's legislative committees on education are set to address campus safety, transportation, career education, and early learning in the 2023 session. Key issues include preparedness for active shooter incidents, sexual violence on college campuses, expanding early learning funding, and facilitating out-of-state teacher hiring. Legislators support raising teacher pay and expanding career and technical education. Bills are also being proposed to make community college free, strengthen civic education, and improve school lunches with local produce. Transportation challenges in rural areas due to driver shortages are a priority, with some schools resorting to using vans. Conservative bills on controversial topics are expected to be introduced but are unlikely to pass. The education reporting is supported by Chamberlin Family Philanthropy.

Hawaii is set to expand access to preschool with significant funding and legislative support. Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke emphasizes the need for more funding to bolster the workforce, while Kerrie Urosevich advocates for higher wages for early childhood educators. The state aims to double or triple the workforce by 2032 to achieve universal pre-K. Efforts include the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact and the Hawaii Promise Program. The state is also considering partnerships with private providers to make preschool more accessible. The mixed delivery system is seen as crucial for meeting the state's educational needs.

Hawaii schools are facing difficulties in assisting English learners to regain language proficiency lost during the pandemic. Virtual classes and reduced social opportunities have led to a significant drop in students on track for language proficiency, with only 4% of high school seniors meeting goals in 2022, compared to 16% five years earlier. The state has 530 teachers for English learners, but only 30% are highly qualified in TESOL. Students proficient in English before high school are more likely to succeed academically and economically. The DOE is focusing on teacher training to improve outcomes, with a directive for all teachers to earn TESOL credits by the 2024-25 school year. However, the achievement gap persists, and other factors such as poverty and living conditions also affect student performance.

Hawaii's charter schools have shown resilience post-pandemic, with increased enrollment and better standardized test performance compared to public schools. However, tensions persist between the schools and the Hawaii State Public Charter School Commission, which is criticized for micromanagement and not respecting school autonomy. The Board of Education's recent evaluation found the commission lacking in several areas, prompting calls for improved relationships and clearer guidelines. Despite some progress, concerns remain about the commission's approach and its impact on school innovation and autonomy.

Hawaii public schools are facing difficulties in assisting English learners (EL) to regain language proficiency after the pandemic. Virtual classes during the pandemic posed challenges for students like Rianna Milne, leading to a decline in proficiency rates. In 2022, only 4% of high school seniors met language proficiency goals, a significant drop from 16% five years earlier. The state has 530 teachers for EL students, but only 30% are highly qualified in TESOL. Students proficient in English before high school tend to have better academic outcomes. Strategies to improve proficiency include support programs, bilingual teacher aids, and content-based ESL classes. The DOE is focusing on increasing ESL training for teachers, with a TESOL certificate program and a directive for all teachers to earn TESOL credits. Despite these efforts, the achievement gap persists, and factors such as poverty and home situations also impact EL students' success.

Nearly 9,200 Hawaii public school teachers are set to receive significant pay raises in November, following the Legislature's approval to address pay inequity and retention issues. The raises, which are retroactive to the start of the school year, will benefit about 72% of the teaching workforce, with the most experienced teachers seeing increases up to $18,056 annually. The pay compression problem, which began during the 2008-2009 recession, resulted in many experienced educators not reaching the top of the pay scale. The Department of Education's Superintendent Keith Hayashi presented the final plan for the salary adjustments, with overdue payments expected to be issued in a lump sum. The Hawaii State Teachers Association noted that the resolution of the pay compression issue has encouraged some teachers to postpone retirement, thereby aiding in teacher retention during a worsening shortage.

Despite high absenteeism rates, Hawaii schools made strides in student achievement during the 2021-22 school year, with academic proficiency increasing across the board but still below pre-pandemic levels. The state's Strive HI report highlighted improvements in language arts and math proficiency, particularly among high-needs students. The Department of Education and HawaiiKidsCAN emphasized the importance of targeted supports for disadvantaged students, utilizing federal pandemic relief funding. Some schools, like Wheeler Middle School and Kaunakakai Elementary, saw significant gains due to intensive interventions and virtual learning support.

Hong Kong's human rights lawyers are concerned about being targeted by the Chinese state as they prepare to defend individuals arrested under the new national security law. During the 1 July protests, 10 residents were arrested for possessing materials deemed subversive or secessionist. The arrests have raised fears among lawyers about the potential risks they face in representing such cases.

Tong Ying-kit, a 23-year-old Hong Kong medic, is the first person charged under the new national security law imposed by Beijing, facing accusations of inciting secession and terrorism. The UN Human Rights Office and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed concerns over the law's vagueness and rapid implementation, with Canada suspending its extradition treaty with Hong Kong. The law could lead to life imprisonment or extradition to mainland China for various offences. Over 300 people have been arrested since the law's enactment, and pro-democracy activist Nathan Law has fled Hong Kong to avoid persecution.

A Hong Kong medic, Tong Ying-kit, has become the first individual charged under China's new national security law, accused of inciting secession and terrorism. The law, criticized for its vague definitions and potential for misuse, has sparked international condemnation, including from the UN Human Rights Office and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who suspended Canada's extradition treaty with Hong Kong. The law's implementation has led to numerous arrests and the disbanding of pro-democracy groups, with prominent activist Nathan Law fleeing the city to continue his activism abroad.

A Hong Kong medic, Tong Ying-kit, has become the first individual charged under the new national security law imposed by Beijing, facing accusations of inciting secession and terrorism. The UN Human Rights Office has raised concerns about the law's vagueness and potential for arbitrary application. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has condemned China's actions, suspending the extradition treaty with Hong Kong and considering further measures. Critics argue the law will suppress dissent in Hong Kong, which has seen significant protests and the disbanding of pro-democracy groups. Prominent activist Nathan Law has left Hong Kong to continue his activism abroad.

A Hong Kong medic, Tong Ying-kit, has become the first person charged under Beijing's new national security law, accused of inciting secession and terrorism. The UN Human Rights Office expressed concerns over the law's vagueness and rapid implementation. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned China's actions, suspending the extradition treaty with Hong Kong and considering further measures. Critics argue the law will suppress dissent in Hong Kong, which has seen over 300 arrests since its enactment. Prominent activist Nathan Law has left Hong Kong to avoid persecution.

A Hong Kong medic, Tong Ying-kit, is the first person charged under the new national security law imposed by Beijing, accused of inciting secession and terrorism. The UN Human Rights Office and international leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, have expressed concerns over the law's vagueness and potential for arbitrary application. Trudeau announced the suspension of Canada's extradition treaty with Hong Kong and other measures. The law has led to the disbanding of several pro-democracy groups and the arrest of over 300 protesters. Prominent activist Nathan Law has left Hong Kong to continue his activism abroad.

Kadoorie Hill, a neighborhood in Kowloon, Hong Kong, has transformed from a granite mountainside into one of the city's most desirable residential areas with a history of nearly a century. The concept of a British-style 'garden city' was introduced to Kowloon in 1922, and by 1933, Kadoorie Hill began to develop. Influential figures in Hong Kong's history have resided here, enjoying the greenery and proximity to the urban center. Despite the surrounding urbanization, the original land lease has protected Kadoorie Hill from redevelopment, preserving its historic status. The exclusive homes, often leased for long periods, reflect a lifestyle from a bygone era, with spacious designs and natural surroundings.

Cha chaan tengs, iconic Canto-Western diners in Hong Kong, are known for their affordable fusion food and cultural significance. Despite not being the healthiest or classiest option, they are cherished by locals and tourists alike. The cafes originated in the 1950s, offering local versions of British cuisine. Their popularity peaked during the 1997 financial crisis, and they have maintained their cultural importance, with some techniques being recognized in Hong Kong's Intangible Cultural Heritage Inventory. However, rising rents and living costs are challenging these establishments, forcing price increases and threatening their existence. Local restaurateurs express a desire to preserve these cultural icons amidst the city's evolving landscape.

Before Wuhan was locked down to contain the new coronavirus, over 5 million people fled, but many stayed, including Yixian Chen, who was in Singapore when the lockdown was announced. Her sister, who developed symptoms, quarantined herself, leaving their elderly parents to care for themselves. By Chinese New Year's Eve, her sister was too weak to go to the hospital.

The Hong Kong Sevens, a premier tournament in the World Rugby Sevens Series, is a highly anticipated event that attracts top players and fans from around the globe. The 44th edition, starting on April 5, promises a blend of intense rugby action and festive atmosphere. Players like Cecil Afrika, Tim Mikkelson, and Kameli Soejima express their excitement and admiration for the unique energy and history of the event. The tournament is not just about the games but also the vibrant city life, with fans and players enjoying Hong Kong's cultural and culinary offerings. The event features various activities, including performances and family-friendly events, making it a city-wide celebration.

Chan, a former lecturer at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, transitioned from academia to become a Cantonese opera star. She performs frequently in Hong Kong, including at the prestigious Xiqu Centre. Despite a demanding schedule, Chan finds solace in her art and the support of her friends and mentors. Her dedication to Cantonese opera is evident in her rigorous training and performances, and she views her role as a cultural custodian with great responsibility. Chan's journey highlights the challenges and rewards of pursuing a passion for traditional arts.

The article discusses a tiny house village in Seattle that was built to help address the city's homelessness crisis. It focuses on the story of Jessica Gudor and Scott Marsh, a couple who were previously separated and homeless but are now raising their baby together in one of the tiny houses. The village provides residents with case workers to assist in finding permanent housing, and the couple pays a significantly reduced rent compared to their previous living arrangements. Marsh is working through a temp agency and hopes to join a carpenters union for better job prospects. Despite challenges such as poor credit and a criminal record, the couple is optimistic about their future and the stability the tiny house village offers.

Elaine Yan-ling Ng is a British Chinese textile designer and weaver based in Hong Kong, known for her innovative work combining textiles, art, architecture, and technology at The Fabrick Lab. Her diverse creations range from nature-inspired fabrics to sculptural jewellery and leather wall tiles. Ng's career shifted from fashion to textiles after a recommendation from a tutor at Central Saint Martins. She has worked for Nissan Design Europe and Nokia Design Beijing, but returned to Hong Kong to establish her studio. Ng won a Designers of the Future Award from Swarovski and has been involved in preserving traditional weaving techniques in China, providing villagers with new materials and designs to sustain their craft. She secured a grant from the Design Trust fund for a documentary and has collaborated with luxury furniture manufacturer Stellar Works on a project featuring indigo-dyed furniture. Ng's studio also produces bespoke textiles for interior designers and architects, and she remains optimistic about the potential for artists in Hong Kong.

The article explores the impact of gentrification in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, where traditional shops are struggling to survive amidst rising rents and changing consumer habits. The author highlights the stories of local shop owners like Mr. Ming of Hui Chun Tong, Perry Chu of Chu Wing Kee, the Chans of Hip Ho Warehouse, and Luk Kee, who have witnessed significant changes in the neighborhood. These shops, which sell antiques, handmade goods, and various products, face competition from new businesses, online shopping, and a shift in customer demographics. Despite the challenges, these shopkeepers express a desire to preserve the unique cultural heritage of Sheung Wan. The article underscores the importance of supporting local businesses to maintain the character and history of the area.

The article discusses the trend among wealthy individuals in Hong Kong to use vanity car plates as a means of showcasing their wealth and individuality. With luxury cars like Porsches and Mercedes being common, these affluent residents seek to stand out by choosing personalized license plates. Some opt for plates that display playful arrogance, such as 'Too Slow', while others spend large sums on plates they believe to be lucky. This phenomenon highlights the lengths to which the rich in Hong Kong will go to differentiate themselves in a society where high-end vehicles are ubiquitous.

The article describes a local gathering spot where men, who have experienced the hardship of their wives leaving them, come together for camaraderie and support. The narrator recounts the story of a man in a 'Southern Cycle' T-shirt who began frequenting this place following his separation. He shares how the simple act of singing 'I Really Miss You' helped him start to move on. The environment is portrayed as one where making friends is easy, with the offer of a drink being enough to spark a new friendship. The story highlights the importance of such social spaces for individuals dealing with personal difficulties.

The article prompts readers to recall their worst night out, suggesting that the details of such an event are often forgotten. The author implies that the only remnants of that night might be a few poorly taken photographs on one's phone, capturing the moment before things took a turn for the worse. The imagery of friends taking a shot that pushes them 'over the edge' is used to evoke the memories of such nights. The article seems to be a reflective piece on the nature of social experiences and the role of photography in preserving them, albeit imperfectly.

The article by Viola J. Gaskell covers the personal stories of three individuals participating in the 10th edition of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. Jennifer Burgess joined the race to honor a promise to her late father and found the experience transformative. Jack Chidley, an experienced sailor, used the race as part of his recovery from severe depression, finding solace in the simplicity and rawness of sailing life. The Sapinda Rainbow Foundation, a South African non-profit, sponsors disadvantaged South African youth to participate in the race for personal development. One of the beneficiaries, Lerato Masonmbuka, aims to use the experience to inspire her community and develop life skills. The race, which began in London and includes various international ports, started its Seattle to Panama leg on April 30, 2016.

Photographers Viola Gaskell and Alison Luntz embarked on a project for eBay's style blog, capturing the diverse perspectives of beauty in Seattle and New York City. They asked people a simple question about what makes them feel beautiful, receiving a wide range of answers from having a healthy family to wearing trendy clothes. The project, titled 'What Makes Me Feel Beautiful,' draws inspiration from Humans of New York and includes a series of portraits showcasing individuals' unique views on beauty. eBay Fashion's project manager, Chibuzo Okoro, emphasized the goal of allowing participants to express their personal feelings of beauty.