Hawaii--The 50th State

Hawaii became the 50th of the United States of America on August 21, 1959. Today, we are celebrating our 50th Anniversary! The kids are all out of school; and State and County offices are all closed. It's a holiday for most folks. The beaches are full.

We're having great weather for it, too, following a couple of weeks of icky tropical storm weather. We didn't get a lot of rain or anything, but it gets hot and sticky. The trades are blowing beautifully now. As I write this, I can look out my kitchen window and watch my mango tree toss to and fro.

The benefits of Statehood have become controversial over the years. There are many who feel we'd be better off if the Monarchy had been restored instead. Still 2/3 of Hawaii residents, according to the Honolulu Advertiser's current issue, are better off. Lt. Governor Duke Aiona wrote, "I...appreciate the many blessings that have flowed into Hawai`i because of statehood, including the tremendous advantages of living under America's laws and protection." 94% of Hawaii voters supported Statehood in 1959.

It's a privilege to live in Hawaii and enjoy its beauty. It is also privilege to be an American.