Run for charity on Father’s Day, or not

It seems a bit discordant with the kick-back-and-relax groove of this annual celebration, but someone thought having a "Virtual Father’s Day Run" would be a good way to mark the holiday.

Here’s how: Go to www.runday.com, look for the link on the lower right and download your own runner number online (everyone gets to be No. 1). Write in a dedication and pin it on your shirt. Go running someplace. No entry fee, just give something to your favorite charity.

This is part of a World Run Day series to promote running events as a charity source. Meanwhile, Dad, let Junior do the running on your behalf. The sofa is beckoning.

Aussies No. 1, but Hawaii led the way

OK, so the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands is no longer the largest fully protected marine reserve in the world. That honor now rests with Australia, which on Wednesday announced the designation.

But you know what? Hawaii led the way to the new era of ocean protection back in 2006 with the Papahanaumokuakea designation, working with many to secure this world-class protection.

In the struggle to balance competing interests such as fishing and fuel exploration, it’s important not to lose sight of safeguarding the environment.