Maui-based Jucker Hawaii introduced a new longboard skateboard to support the Save Honolua Coalition. Since the purchase of Lipoa Point by the State of Hawaii, many people think Honolua has been saved, said company co-founder Mike Jucker. That’s a misconception, according to Tamara Paltin, president of Save Honolua Coalition.
“This is just the beginning, now we must consider and discuss long term sustainable management of the land,” Paltin said. “As a community we need to continue to be involved in both the planning and implementation of malama ‘aina or taking care of this much loved area.”
Community involvement and donations to cover operational costs remain important components to continue advocacy for Honolua. Jucker said the timing is perfect to step in and provide support for the coalition’s important work.
“To work with Tamara and the Coalition has been in the back of my head for a long time,” Jucker said. We started talking about creating a board to benefit the Honolua Coalition last summer, he said.
Jucker Hawaii introduced its new longboard skateboard, named Pono, in mid-June after many months of development. The board was introduced at Honolua Bay during a recent ceremony and blessing attended by Paltin and Jucker–along with Makahiva Thompson, friend and cultural adviser to Jucker Hawaii.
A portion of proceeds from each Pono board sold will go directly to the Save Honolua Coalition. Since its release, Jucker has raised $900 for the coalition. “We are very happy with the initial $900 donation from Jucker Hawaii,” said Paltin. “We hope and pray for the success of this board.”
Jucker said he’s very happy to be able to give back to the community–not only by raising money, but also by sending a message to those who will enjoy riding the board. Doing things the right way, respecting the culture and the land, is essential for doing business and living in Hawaii, he said.
“’Be pono, do the right thing’ is already a popular phrase and it is our hope that the skateboard will help to strengthen this message amongst people who live here and people who visit, especially in the board rider community,” he added.
In addition to raising money, Jucker Hawaii is helping spread the word about the Save Honolua Coalition by attaching a tag with the organization’s mission statement to every board.
Photo courtesy of Jucker Hawaii
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