The Left Lane
Up for a challenge

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"This particular paddle has a lot of vision as well as a lot of community involvement," said Kahakui. "We're trying to give Hawai'i kids the opportunity to see that they can make a difference in the world."

Her extreme effort is part of a year-long mentorship project called Ola Na Kai (So the Oceans May Live). Fourteen students from O'ahu and the Neighbor Islands and about 40 adults will accompany Kahakui during parts of her voyage. Their mission? To bond with their brothers and sisters in Tahiti, take part in a cultural exchange and raise awareness about stream restoration and caring for the ocean environment.

Despite potential problems such as the weather, currents and scheduling of a sizeable entourage, Kahakui predicts her greatest roadblock will be her own body: "Dehydration will be a big fear," she said. "It will be a challenge. That's an understatement."

When masks won't do

Make-up wizard Brian Furer and his crew will offer their services for anyone eager to look like a ghoul or a monster or even a glamour queen for Halloween.

Furer, who was a makeup artist for "Baywatch Hawai'i" and a string of other made-in-Hawai'i films and TV shows, will use movie prosthetics and more to create Frankensteins or Draculas at Prosperity Corner, 1151 12th Ave., Kaimuki.

The service started last week and continues through Halloween. But be prepared to cough up some coins. It will cost you $250 to look like Frankenstein, $35 for Marilyn Monroe. One person paid $120 to get his body painted like a tiger.

The menu includes "Planet of the Apes," and you can request a special look. Fur, hair and other appliances would add to the cost, but those bound for Halloween parties don't mind the fee, said store owner D.J. Colbert.

For an appointment, call 732-8870.

Tribute to stepdads

Brad Paisley

The secret of the song's success was its story about a man who "didn't have to be" a loving stepfather, but chose to be so — a story that touched a chord in many blended families. The song's theme: "I hope I'm at least half the dad that he didn't have to be."

Now Paisley and co-writer Kelley Lovelace, whose stepson was the inspiration for the song, have published a book based on the lyrics. "He Didn't Have to Be" (Rutledge Hill Press, $13.99 hardcover) is illustrated with photographs of real-life stepfamilies and unabashedly aimed at the gift market, with a greeting card-type space at the front for a personal dedication. It includes, along with the song lyrics and a CD tucked in back, excerpts from letters the writers received after the song came out — touching tributes to stepfathers around the country.