Another Localism.com featured!!
By Celeste "Sally" Cheeseman of Mililani, Hawaii!
We all believe in all things tangible because we can touch, feel or see things. If there were no Restricted Preservation and Conservation land in Hawaii our islands would be full of cities and buildings and no History of Hawaii would be left behind except in text books. If there were no one who got involved to protect or take notice of our environment, protect our historic sites and our land what would we have left?
Rich in beauty because of this preservation of our lands and ocean, the eye beholds scenery that all tourists, visitors, relocators and local residents enjoy throughout each and every day.
After living the majority of my life on Oahu, Hawaii since 1967 (my parents decided to retire here as my mother was born and raised on the island of Kauai and my dad was getting out of the US Navy) I have come to know a lot about it's history, the environment and the sacred areas that are indeed to be protected for everyone to grasp in their hearts and for the visitors...in their minds and with pictures. Who would visit our islands if not?
We have many Hawaiian and Environmental groups looking out for us here and I commend them all for taking it to the City, State and Federal levels to keep the preservation of the culture and environment of Hawaii intact. This is the latest story for our Environmental Groups Sue Navy Over Sonar Exercises Off Hawaii and this is just one story on Hawaiian Groups fighting for justice Native Hawaiian groups suing the Army and another story on Judge Proposes Hawaiian Mediation For Artifacts Dispute. So many groups for causes to protect our life, our land and our culture.
Click on the following link for the website regarding Honokahua Preservation which has over 900 burial sites dating between the years of 850 and 1800! They realized this when digging began in 1987for the Ritz Carlton, Kapalua, Maui and moved the site for the hotel inland to preserve this sacred ground.
One more point I would like to hit on is .....KA'U, which is located on the southern part of the island of Hawaii, also known as "The Big Island". The following website is the KAU PRESERVATION -PROTECTING HAWAII'S LARGEST WILDERNESS AREA AND UNDEVELOPED COASTLINE and has many pictures and information on how they are fighting to protect this part of the Island of Hawaii and it's precious coastline and wilderness area.
This area also includes our famous PUNALU`U BLACK SAND BEACH (the sand is BLACK!) and you can see a picture on the above site as well.
I wrote an article on HAWAIIAN Spirits and Superstitions which only scratched the surface to give some information on respect to our islands. This article will only scratch the surface on the Preservation and Protection of our islands.
So...below are many websites to gain more insight and knowledge into this subject and why we need to protect what is valuable. Our islands, our lands. Enjoy!
"Ua Mau Ke Ea O Ka `Aina I Ka Pono" 
Meaning: The Life/Sovereignty of the Land is Perpetuated in Righteousness
In the Hawaiian language "Ono" means "yummy", "scrumptious", "flavorful", "hits the spot" and "delicious" to describe ones feelings about tasteful food that they are enjoying. We even go so far as to call it "Ono-licious"!
As I discussed in my post HAWAIIAN Spirits and Superstitions Hawaii has many different ethnic groups and so you may as well expect an abundance of so many different varieties of cultural foods as well. So embark on this journey that will definitely get your taste buds going and your mouth watering!
Definition of a Plate lunch?
The most important of all is the plate lunch. It's a meal composed of an entree or combination of entrees, served with rice and macaroni salad on the side. We have an abundance of "take out plate lunch havens" that include Hawaiian, Chinese, Japanese, Samoan, Filipino, Tongan, Korean, American and other kinds of cuisine as well as great on your budget! An average plate lunch is about $5 to $7 and you will be taking half of it home for leftovers.
The "plate lunch" includes entrees such as Chicken Katsu, Kalbi Short Ribs, Mahi-Mahi, Pork Adobo, Kalua Pork, BBQ Chicken and I can guaranty you will be standing to the side looking at the menu for awhile trying to decide what it is you want to try. I also guaranty you will be leaving the island with a few more...okay, a lot more pounds on you than when you arrived. Guaranty!
Okay. Hawaiian Food. the typical Hawaiian food spread will include (from middle right going counter clockwise) Kalua pig, (The word kālua means "to cook in an underground oven" which is commonly served at luau Hawaiian feasts) poi (pounded pasty substance from the taro plant), Haupia (coconut jello), sliced onion, lomi lomi salmon (cut up salmon,onions and tomatoes), laulau (wrapped up in taro leaves and consists of pork, butterfish or chicken and pork or any variety of meats) pipikaula (smoked beef and thinly sliced) and douced in chili pepper water. Yummy!
The following tour will give you just a "sampling" of our different types of dishes according to ethnic groups along with a few places to try out when you get here!
RESTAURANT'S CYBERGUIDE is a full on guide of all restaurants on all islands in Hawaii that were recognized and most of them received awards. So, with all the information I have given you all week you can add this one to it. You can add this article to your list for planning your trip (or relocating) to Hawaii along with the foods you're going to try as soon as you get here!
LOCAL KINE RECIPES has an abundance of receipes you may want to try before you even get here!
And remember.....ONO-LICIOUS!
More posts with Hawaii info!
Hawaii Photo Post and Virtual Tours!
HAWAIIAN Spirits and Superstitions (localism featured)
What Makes a House a Home in Honolulu, Hawaii? (localism featured)
Active Rain Real Estate Network is for members to advertise, entertain, network with each other, is loaded with information and insight, ideas, support and most of all....a way for each and every member to give back to the community that gave so much to us!
Everyone has their different style of writing. I have the ability to write from the inside out. REAL stuff. Yup!
That's what I call it. So now I am going to pay it forward as I have been all along. I give joy, laughter, emotion and information for all of you to enjoy or use for future use.
I am not a taker. I am a giver. I give to you all my sincere appreciation for all you have given me. I give you insight into my soul, my heart and my mind.
Grab a seat. Relax. And enjoy the photo tour and virtual tours I have created ....JUST FOR YOU!
Hey! Listen to me! No! Listen to me! Hey, listen up! We got a show going on! If you don't pay attention you'll miss something!
Okay, Sal. Let's sit back and watch this thing.
FOR....Growing Up Agent and Tribute to DAD!
(So sorry the pictures area all blurred....but back in the day we didn't have digital!)
Now that you have a little glimpse into the life of "Growing Up Agent" I'll give you a brief tour of my home, Hawaii. Okay. First I have to show off a few of my many orchid plants. Orchids bloom only once between 6-18 months after each bloom depending on the type.
And now....the big show...a tour of scenery and attractions on Oahu!
Chinaman's Hat 
Brigham Young University in Laiea
I'm driving! 
Of scenery and attractions on Oahu through my eyes!
I hope you all enjoyed this picture insight into my life and my home! In between all the gorgeous sunsets and blue skies so clear it's picture perfect, I am in the Real Estate Industry and I am totally dedicated to my client's to give them the spirit of Aloha and paying great attention to detail throughout the transaction. No short cuts here!
Following are additional articles which are full of information for Hawaii as well!
HAWAIIAN Spirits and Superstitions
Blogging about "VOG" in Hawaii
Visitor and Newcomer Safety Tips for Hawaii!
Alooooooooha!
Another Localism Featured Post!......By Celeste "Sally" Cheeseman
The Hawaiian people and many different ethnic groups living in Hawaii are highly superstitious and believe in the spirits of their ancestors who walked the lands of our islands. The history of Hawaii tells of our great warriors in battle and traveling along the paths along the ridges of mountains and valleys between them to get to the ocean. They are called the "Night Marchers". They can be seen carrying torches to light their way along places where there were battlefields as well.
I have been a resident of Hawaii since 1967 and I have lived the majority of my life on Oahu in Mililani although I have also lived in Waipahu, Pearlridge and in Waipio Gentry. While residing in Pearlridge (from 2002-2005) I really started researching the area because we lived on the top of the mountain (along Onikiniki Ridge and hiking trail) and half the land was Restricted Preservation land. Our home sat between two valleys and mountains. I JUST KNEW that this had to be some kind of pathway of the Hawaiian Warriors to the ocean. I was right!
We had someone come "bless" our home immediately after moving in and he told us this was the direct path of the the Chief leading his warriors down to the ocean. I was wondering why late at night I could hear the faint beating of drums. He chanted and dipped ti leaves in blessed water all over our house. He also told us if we are going to throw any branches and leaves from yard work into the valley to ask permission first. Do not throw trash that will not go back into the land!
So much to consider!
As you know, the islands have very little buildable land because a lot of it is State and Government owned and zoned Restricted Preservation and Conservation which I wrote about in Hawaii (Oahu) Zoning, Special Use and Building Permits. Well, the majority of our burial sites were unmarked graves and there are also "Heiau's" (burial sites surrounded and marked with stones) that were preserved all over our islands as well. So. Guaranteed we are on all kinds of burial grounds.
With that in mind.....whenever construction or digging occurs and they find remains or bones...BY LAW...all work ceases and they are required to call in archeologists and Burial Council Officials to inspect the remains. Construction has been known to be halted for quite some time until they can relocate the bones to a proper burial place.
Bottom line. We follow certain "rules" so as not to upset the spirits such as:
These are just a few examples of the Hawaiian folklore, legends and superstions as well as a couple of other oriental ones. There are so many here because of many ethnic groups and culture that make up our local population here. It is interesting, mysterious and mind boggling. But will you take the chance of upsetting the spirits?
Couple of other articles to read that may interest you as well as the virtual tour of Hawaii! Enjoy!
Blogging about "VOG" in Hawaii
Visitor and Newcomer Safety Tips for Hawaii!
OF HAWAII!
"VOG" is Volcanic Air Pollution. Oahu experiences "VOG" when trade winds change direction after there has been volcanic action on the island of Hawaii or otherwise known as the Big Island. The winds will blow this volcanic air pollution towards us and make our little world look all hazy.
Following are pictures I took today from down the street from where I live in Waipio Gentry on the island of Oahu and viewing the downtown Honolulu area. In the far background is Diamond Head and usually there is an unobstructed view with blue clear skies.
View from "Cliffside Villages" to Pearl Harbor to Downtown Honolulu!
View on left taken 2 hours later from the park by my house View on right is at the Central Oahu Regional Park
For more information on Vog.....Click here for Vog Index and Current Vog Conditions
May 18, 2007 News story on Lava delta lost 23 acres in latest collapse (a chunk of Kileauea Volcano on the Big Island crashed into the ocean. Quote: Scientists at the U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory had originally estimated the May 10 lava delta collapse at East Lae'apuki at 16 acres, but now say it's closer to 23. Also, new cracks in the lava delta have been observed, hinting at further collapses.
Courtesy of USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory Check out the crack!
Other Interesting Info:
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A Hawaii Real Estate and Relocations Blog. With a sharp understanding that a listening ear is the key to a client's needs your best interests are at the core of every transaction.
I was fascinated by the Hawaii Real Estate Industry back in the 70's when my mom went to Hawaii Real Estate School and passed....but never pursued a career in the real estate industry. My dad lasted two weeks in Real Estate School and quit ...claiming that "it's a whole different language and world!". 
Let me be a little transparent for a minute. My passion lies within life itself, the beliefs and values I hold in every aspect of my life transfers to my profession in the real estate industry.
In 2004 my father passed away and he was proud to see how successful I became in Hawaii Real Estate Residential Sales. The last thing he told me was, "Sal, no matter what- your life has to continue".
The passion I have for life, I carry through every transaction.
My husband used to tell me that I got too 'involved' and too 'personal', but as the years passed he saw the difference it made and now says, "That's what makes you a great real estate agent". I asked what he meant and he insisted it's because I take the time to listen to my client's needs. I have the determination to make sure every contingency in our contract is fulfilled. And then some.
This is what I do for you and allows me to sleep very well at night.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
After traveling around the world as a military dependent my parents decided to retire on the island of Oahu in 1967 (my mom is originally from Kauai) and we have been here since.
Past careers include being an Administrative Assistant for a Family Law Attorney and a Structured Supportive Living Skills Program.
My father retired after serving 22 years in the US Navy, my children's father retired from the US Air Force and my son came home in Fall of 2006 after serving on the USS Kitty Hawk in the US Navy.
I know what it's like to relocate to a different place....let alone to a totally different world across the Pacific Ocean to Hawaii...Paradise. Knowing and experiencing many a Hawaii Relocation myself gives me additional expertise to assist the Military Relocating to Hawaii.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Wife of Gary (Networking Engineer for PDC Systems Hawaii, mother of adult children, Michael, Dori and my new son in law Gerardo and proud daughter of Dorothy (who just turned 81 January 2009!)
Regardless if you're buying or selling your home your best interests are at heart.
I give you ....the "Spirit of Aloha" and a listening ear for all YOUR needs!
**Licensed Realtor Associate® in the STATE of HAWAII
Member of:
Relocating to Hawaii? With our warm climate and breathtaking scenery it's no wonder why everyone (including locals) call it "Paradise"! Hawaii is the choice of many people who prefer a tropical setting to live out their retirement years. It also becomes everyones favorite Hawaii Relocation spot when transferring to the military bases in Hawaii including the Schofield Army Base, Wheeler Army Air Field, Pearl Harbor Navy Base, Hickam AFB, or Kaneohe Marine Corp Air Station. Education, Information and a Good Realtor® is The Art of Hawaii Relocations.
Your Military Relocation to Hawaii and Purchasing Your New Home. The following information is basic but pertinent information to go over before you even pack for your transfer and before considering purchasing your Honolulu County (Oahu) home. Moving across the Pacific Ocean to such a diverse culture may be of a shock and you may want to brush up on a few tips to make your transition a smooth one.
Neighborhoods in Honolulu County and Market Report too! An insight into the different neighborhoods and what they have to offer. You will also get current market statistics in each community for which I wrote for that period.
Things to Do, History & Places to See - A three part series for a brief, condensed Points of Interest series to learn a little about our island and our so diverse and full of different cultures and ways of life.
Condo or Townhouse Living: Rules to Follow and Steps to Protect: If you are contemplating downsizing then condo / townhouse living may be an option. With maintenance fees for most associations taking care of the bulk of your homeowner's insurance (common elements), and repairs to the outside, roof, grounds and water/trash and sewere this may just be an option.
History of schools and links to Hawaii's Education System A brief look at the history of Hawaii and its school system as well as researching schools and neighborhoods suitable for your family and their Relocation to Hawaii.
Bottom line is this.
It's not easy moving across the Pacific Ocean let alone to a totally different "world" of people,
but you can do it with a little effort, motivation and a great Realtor®!
*************************************************************************************
If you're Relocating to Hawaii (regardless if it's near future or just wanting to be proactive for the future) contact me to get started with your search for Hawaii Homes for Sale!
© 2007-2009 Celeste "Sally" Cheeseman's Hawaii Real Estate and Relocation Blog.
All rights reserved.
Part of transitioning from the military to the civilian life was finding the right placeto live. After having gone 
through a couple realtors unsuccessfully, we found Celeste. She treated us with the ohana spirit and made us a priority. She went above and beyond any expectations that we had for her, to help us find our dreamhome. Having a thorough understanding of our wants and needs, she found us ther ight house at theright price very expediently. We love the quite neighborhoodand close access to schools for our children.If you are looking for your dream home, Celeste is the right person for you! Karen and James D.
Thank you so much for all your help. I know I could not have found a better realtor to help me with the sale! It went very smoothly and I thank you for taking care of everything. Mostof all, I also want to thank you for being my friend (not just a realtor). Not a lot of people would take their work beyond business.. Maria M./Khamseng S.
What an amazing experience! Celeste is on top of it in the real estate market. Not only did she offer expert advice and professionalism,she became a great friend. The entire 30 day escrow experience was a smooth transition an never did we wonder what was going on, Celeste kept us up to date throughout the whole thing. Thank you, Sally...we miss you! The Wheeler Family
Sally...You're the best! Thank you so much for finding us not just a house but a home we can call our own. Take care and God Bless. You'll always be our great friend. Thanks! Jorge and Bless Y.
I found Sally on the internet while my fiance was still deployed to Afghanistan. We were preparing for a military relocation to Hawaii........ Sally was amazing! She made our transition to the islands easy and painless. Not only did we find a great Realtor, we made a new friend!"
Shelly and Chris LIVE on VIDEO: A Hawaii Military Relocation Story Comes to Life
Just wanted to inform everyone in the Whole World that Sally is the most knowledgeable, sweet, soft talking, professional, and hard working Realtor I've ever come across. She knew the answer to every question my husband and I asked. We are very pleased with our new home and cant wait to move in (in a few weeks). Sally always told us to keep our cool when the bank was asking for outrageous things that not even our broker was familiar with. But, we got through that with bright flying colors. In the end we are very blessed to have found Sally and have her work as hard as she did for us. Our family is always and will forever be open to her and her family we are family now. We owe her everything for all she has done. Now our transition from Cali to Hawaii will be very smooth without any worries. Thanks a million Sally and to everyone who is reading this Im not taking any other Realtor's thunder but Sally is the BEST and I would recommend her to everyone I know. We can never thank you enough.
Dewan and Keanya
Watch their live video!
A Hawaii First Time Home Buyer - Client Testimonial in VIDEO
Our experience with "Sally" from our initial contact to contract:
For many months leading up to our Hawaii move my wife and I had a number of places that we were interested in seeing upon our arrival to rent. During one of our internet searches we came across Sally's blog about buying real estate in Hawaii and how with her help we could actually buy a house and not throw our money away in rent. We were impressed with her qualifications and most importantly we liked the fact that she really listened to our desires, cared about staying in our budget just as much as we cared, and allowed us enjoy our first weeks in Hawaii without any hassles by doing 95% of the work while constantly keeping us informed.
Thanks to Sally really understanding what we wanted from the beginning we were able to see houses that met our desires and dreams. It was not long before we walked into the house we knew would become our home! With meticulous passion for getting things right all of the paperwork and documents that it takes to buy a home, which had originally kept us hesitating to even try to purchase, was signed and filed appropriately by Sally who also took the time to make us aware of certain steps of the process that we should pay particular attention to. It was obvious from the start Sally had been getting nervous families from the mainland into the Hawaiian community for years and not only planting them into a great house but welcoming them and accepting them into the land of Paradise allowing them to grow as new members in the community.
Our house closed on the exact day Sally said it would and we know that the only reason it did was due to Sally's diligence and passion for getting people what they have always dreamed of. As first time home buyers Sally has given us something we thought we were not going to have for many years. You would be completely short changed if you don't allow Sally to assist you in your move to Hawaii. Give her a call or send an email like I did and I can assure you of an adventure like no other on the face of this planet! Never in our wildest dreams did we think we could ever own a house in Hawaii. A place where people of all countries long to visit or live. Thank you again Sally for the present you have given to our family!
Robert & Zarina
11JAN09
"Sally" was very helpful and patient with us from the get go. She always followed up with us with any updates. She also gave us additional information regarding the units, about the neighborhood and schools, etc. Kudo's to Sally!
Ron and Zeny
(From left, Ron & Zeny (clients), Sally (me), and Bryon Tucker, Loan Officer with Everygreen Home Loans)
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