Watching CNN cover the “Beer Summit” in Washington today made me chuckle. You could see the announcer’s confusion and discomfort…like they wanted to say “huh?”
Beer Summit at White House
What made me chuckle is that President Obama is applying “island style” diplomacy at his new home – The White House.
I can’t tell you how many “meetings” I’ve had with clients at the picnic table, in the garage, or on the lanai. Most people have a stack of plastic chairs in their garage. Entertaining is done with beers, good food and a little music- outside, either at home or at the beach park.
Mr. "Wala'au"
Politics, local style, involves relaxing and connecting…often outside over a beer. I used to live down the street from local celebrity Dickie Chang who is now on the Kauai County Council, and many “meetings” and fundraisers were outside his home with beer, food, music and laughter.
Dicki is known as Mr. Wala’au..another word for “talk story.” His local TV show is a favorite of residents and visitors alike.
Wala’au in Hawaiian means to communicate, someone who likes to talk. For a musical explanation of Wala’au, here’s a video of two instruments “talking story” Hawaiian style.
I’m glad to see President Obama approach this difficult situation with his “island roots”…bringing people together.
Join me here for some local style music…bring your own drinks and pupu’s (appetizers). Listen to Bruddah Iz and then let me know if all this tension and hate really makes any sense…let’s “wala’au”…add your comments below or let’s talk story at:
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