Fellows mentioned in this story: Meli James, Cohort VII

From Forbes:

Millions of people are lured to Hawaiʻi every year by postcard images of white sandy beaches, palm trees and mai tais. After a relaxing week enjoying the ocean and balmy evening strolls they may come home with dashboard hula girls, coconut bikini tops and plastic lei without ever considering the impact these souvenirs have had on Hawai‘i.

There are hundreds of souvenir shops in Waikīkī – the epicenter of Hawai’i tourism. In just a one mile radius there are 37 ABC stores – the 58-year-old convenience chain famous in Hawaiʻi for selling groceries, souvenirs and travel supplies all under one roof. But, what are these items teaching you about Hawai’i and who do your dollars support?

Continue reading at forbes.com.