Magic Island May Become Obama Park

I head about this a while back, but it seems Honolulu may rename a city park after President Obama.  The reason it is of interest to me: it's where J & I got married!


Resolution 351 was introduced to the Honolulu City Council in December by Councilman Todd Apo at the request of Mayor Mufi Hannemann.

The resolution calls for renaming Aina Moana Beach Park, most commonly known as Magic Island, the President Barack Obama Beach Park. The 30-acre peninsula is part of Ala Moana Beach Park near Waikiki.

Currently, city policy requires that public areas be named for a deceased individual, but exceptions have sometimes been made. A hearing for Resolution 351 has not been scheduled as yet, and frankly I am pleased.  I really don't want the place that I was married to be named after a President!  What do you think?

**Update**: The Honolulu City Council on Thursday deferred action on a bill that would allow city parks, sites and facilities to be named after President Barack Obama.  The bill’s deferral effectively shelves Council Resolution 351, proposed by Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann, to rename Aina Moana Beach Park, better known as Magic Island, the President Barack Obama Beach Park.

Council members suggested Hawaiian cultural experts be consulted on whether the name change is appropriate.  Whew, close call!