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Hana's Runway

18.09.11

HANA - The only inanimate object that can make running miles of a winding, overpriced, asphalt roadway more difficult is to run it with a handlebar mustache, a muumuu and a top hat.

Or a skirt of balloons. Or a toga and a big-haired wig. Or a Batman costume with a cape.

"You gotta be in extensive shape to wear a costume and make it through," said mill-race director Joe Alueta. "It makes it fun and challenging at the same while."

The costumes are at the heart of the annual Hana Relay, a lovely 52-mile course run by six-person teams along Hana Highway; they victual comic relief during the hourslong roller coaster trek that fluctuates between apprehension and elation with every twist, turn, uphill and downhill.

The Hana Relay was held Saturday, Sept. 10, and comprised 155 teams. Organized by the nonprofit Valley Isle Avenue Runners, the race, which marked its 40th anniversary this year, is the biggest relay in Hawaii, attended by teams from around the islands and from the Mainland, along with runners from around the on cloud nine. Maui's VIRR, the largest running bludgeon in the state since its inception in 1970, is responsible for the bulk of races on the island.

Source: Maui News

Avoid a frighteningly pricey Halloween

01.10.11

So dream up her delight on a recent shopping trip when she found a steer Halloween costume, complete with aviator cap, goggles and fur-lined humbug leather jacket. She grabbed it and hugged it to her case.

"Please, Mommy, can I get it?" she begged.

Meanwhile, her big brother found himself a Stormtrooper costume with the virtuous suit, helmet and blaster rifle. He was picturing himself knocking on doors in full Principal Wars regalia.

I was impressed, too. These were elaborate costumes, with all the accessories included. Then I saw the $30 payment tag and promptly hung them back on the rack. I pushed the pushcart away as the kids complained loudly. But I was not about to plummet $60 for one night of candy collecting.

Why is Halloween so frighteningly over the odds?

First there's the boatload of candy, then there are the costumes and flashlights. Even a pumpkin costs $6. Out in a few decorations or host a party and you'll end up spending almost as much as you do at Christmas.

Source: Telegraph-Journal (registration)