These awards honor those who show a commitment to perpetuating the Hawaiian culture and community. Past recipients include entities like the bilingual Imiloa Astronomy Center for strengthening the olelo and a Hawaiian perspective on the science of astronomy as well as Hoaka Delos Reyes for his perpetuation of traditional Hawaiian rock carving.

"This program is part of the State's Tourism Strategic Plan (2005-2015), specifically the Hawaiian Culture Initiative."

The recipients are selected by HTA's Hawaiian Culture Program Advisory Council that includes visitor industry representatives and particularly members of the Hawaiian community.

"We will be honoring the recipients at an awards ceremony on August 7th at the Hawaii Convention Center."

This program seeks to lift up the Hawaiian culture, which is vital to the number one industry in Hawaii's economy, tourism.

"We believe the tourism industry's success is directly dependent on the strength of the Hawaiian community and our host culture."

Visit www.hawaiitourismauthority.org for the application/nomination form before the deadline which is next Tuesday, July 1st.

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