BY DERIN DEREGO / Special to the Star-Advertiser
There have been so many interesting stories in the news recently that I’ve been glued to CNN. I usually watch Anderson Cooper daily, but lately I’ve had my television set blaring in the background almost nonstop.
Former Boston Celtics center Jason Collins recently came out as the first openly gay player in the National Basketball Association. Collins is currently a free agent after finishing the current season with the Washington Wizards. (Associated Press)
The first story I’ve been enthralled with is the coming out of NBA player Jason Collins. I’ve never really grasped the hoopla around coming out. I can’t wait for the day when one’s sexual preference is neither here nor there. Personally, I’d rather be going out than coming out, but that’s just me.
What was amazing about this story is how supportive his parents and twin brother were. That kind of unconditional love is a great thing for youths struggling with their identities to behold.
The other story I’ve been obsessed with is the three girls who were kidnapped one after another and recently found in Cleveland. As tragic as they are, these types of stories always amaze me. The fact that children can go missing and still be found 10 years later really illustrates that hope is a profound thing. The elation on their parents’ faces was so touching — and just in time for Mother’s Day.
Speaking of May’s biggest day, there are a bunch of options to celebrate the moms in your life. Whether it’s paying tribute to your own, or acknowledging a sibling, spouse, or even drag mother — a drag queen who teaches an aspiring queen the tricks of the trade — there’s something for everyone this Sunday.
If you’re in the mood for something off the beaten path, check out Cyclovia Hawaii’s “Hele On Kakaako” from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. around Mother Waldren Park in Kaka’ako. The event, which aims to promote carless streets, or cyclovias, celebrates moms by providing a day of family fun featuring crafts, food, skateboard ramps, bmx demonstrations and more.
Duncan Osorio. (Courtesy NBC)
As part of the celebration, Taste at 667 Auahi St. will serve brunch prepared by “Top Chef” season one competitor Lee Anne Wong and her mother. There’ll be a plethora of breakfast and lunch items with adult pricing at $62 and a child’s brunch for $32.
I’m pretty traditional when it comes to family gatherings, so I tend to gravitate towards my usual haunts. We all know Michel’s at the Colony Surf has one of the best views in town, but not too many people know that they do an amazing brunch every first Sunday of the month. Luckily for you last minute planners, they’re opening up the doors a second Sunday in a row just for mom. With starters like hamachi sashimi and Manila clam chowder, and entrees like their signature Eggs Benedict or a mahi mahi and king salmon combination, you’re sure to score big points with mom for taking her to this sometimes forgotten favorite.
For the best of both worlds, try heading to the Hilton Waikiki Beach for their brunch buffet. They’ve lined up some great entertainment, including “The Voice” contestant Duncan Osorio, Kaleo Pilanca, James Mane and Andy Bumatai.
There’s no excuse not to make this Mother’s Day the best one yet. After all, if there’s anything we can learn from the headlines of late, it’s there’s no substitute for family!
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When he’s not out and about at the hottest parties and other events in Honolulu, Derin “Dare” Derego works as an account executive at a local radio station group. Reach him via email at derinderego@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter.