1. If you’re looking for unique gifts or a fun way to spend time with friends, consider scheduling a sign-making party with Naked Wood. Pick the location for your two-hour event and Naked Wood supplies 10-inch-square wooden signs, stencils of various sayings and slogans, and paint. They’ll even make custom stencils with a week’s notice.
In the company of five friends, we applied and hand-painted customized stencils to our signs.
“What else is possible?” was the phrase I picked, a reminder of the limitless possibilities within our reach. I brought starfish and shells to add to my creation.
Adult and teen parties are $25 per person (minimum five guests); the cost is $15 per person for children’s parties. Visit nakedwoodcrafts.com.
— Nancy Arcayna, Wahiawa
2. Skinny Jeans IPA first came to my attention at Brick Fire Tavern, where the pizza specialists featured it as their only IPA on tap. Sold!
The refreshing ale tastes light but has a robust effect, with 6 percent alcohol. As maker Waikiki Brewing Co. boasts, it’s a hop-forward IPA flavored with “tropical and dank aromatics” designed to appeal to West Coast IPA drinkers.
Now Skinny Jeans IPA is available in cans, which both flaunt and mock the beer’s hipster appeal. Pick up a six-pack at Longs Drugs ($11.99) and other outlets, or from the source at Waikiki Brewing Co. pubs at 831 Queen St. and 1945 Kalakaua Ave.; waikikibrewing.com.
— Elizabeth Kieszkowski, Star-Advertiser
3. When it comes to movies and books, sequels are rarely as good as the original. One exception may be the new companion volume to Peter Caldwell’s 2006 “Moloka‘i-Oahu through the Years” that chronicles the Moloka‘i Hoe (1952-2005) and Na Wahine O Ke Kai (1980-2005) outrigger canoe races.
The latest edition continues the history of the world-famous races across the Kaiwi Channel through 2016. Appropriately, the cover photo is of a crew of Anuenue Canoe Club paddlers age 60-plus, steered by the legendary Joseph “Nappy” Napoleon.
The 76-year-old waterman made his record 60th consecutive crossing last year. The book will be especially meaningful to those with a connection to the race and/or to Napoleon. I’m fortunate to have both: Nappy was my coach for all three of my Na Wahine O Ke Kai races.
“Moloka‘i-Oahu through the Years, 2006-2016” is available for $25 at Island Paddler, Bookends, Bishop Museum and molokaicanoerace.com.
— Cindy Luis, Star-Advertiser
4. We call it the psychedelic squid for its fluorescent tentacles. The Tracer360 safety vest illuminates wearers with brilliant LED fiberoptic tubes that provide 360-degree visibility. I bought one for my husband’s nighttime walks along Diamond Head Road.
Waterproof and weighing only 7 ounces, the Tracer360 buckles with a snap in a chest band made of reflective tape. The on-off button in a cuttlebone-shaped back panel lets you choose solid color, multicolor or flashing modes. It comes with three AAA batteries and provides 40 hours of your own individual light show.
It’s priced at $69.95 at noxgear.com, but check for frequent sales; free shipping to Hawaii.
— Mindy Pennybacker, Star-Advertiser
5. Kitchen convenience often means kitchen clutter, with blenders, coffeemakers, toaster ovens and more taking up counter and cupboard space. That’s why I love the Hover Cover microwave splatter guard ($14.99).
Polymer-encased magnets let you attach it to the ceiling of your microwave when not in use, so it’s hidden away yet you always know exactly where to find it. The 11.5-inch Hover Cover also has steam vents and stays cool to the touch; rinse clean or run it through the dishwasher.
Look for Hover Covers in the As Seen on TV aisle at Target, Bed Bath & Beyond and other variety stores or check hovercover.com for special offers.
— Christie Wilson, Star-Advertiser
Please keep in mind that featured products may be in short supply and may not be available at all store locations; prices may vary. The information presented represents the author’s opinions and experiences; your results may vary. Tell us what you are loving this week by emailing features@staradvertiser.com.
