"Alakoko's Grace"

This item is a rectangular wood platter created from Pride of India wood by craftsman Mark Hubbard of Kaua'i. This wood was obtained from the area around the Alakoko Fish Pond near Lihue. Some say the Pride of India wood has the curliest patterning of any wood in the world but others might give the nod to Koa. In any case, the swirling pattern of the wood gives this piece its unique character. The platter can be used decoratively or as a functional piece and measures 9 1/2" x 11 1/2" x 1" overall. This piece is part of Mark Hubbard's treasured private collection and he is sharing it with the auction in the hope that it will support the Center into the future for all people.

 A consultant in the field of Human Resources with 30 years experience and 10 years experience in property management, real estate sales and leasing, Mark has worked for the U.S. Navy, Amfac Sugar-Hawai`i, and Grove Farm Company, Inc. Mark earned a BA in biology from Stanford University and a MBA from U.H. Mark volunteers with many nonprofit organizations and community groups such as Rotary Club, Hale `Opio, Leadership Kaua`i, Kaua`i Community College, Puako Homeowners' Association, Blood Bank of Hawai`i, Lawai International Center, Kaua`i Hospice, Friends of the Children's Advocacy Center of Kaua`i, as well as Kaua`i Planning & Action Alliance.

Mark's commitment to Lawai International Center is beyond words. He is a precious gift to humanity through his humbleness and overwhelming act of kindness. Every week for 20 years, Mark has quietly maintained the 32-acre property of the Center, from pulling weeds, mowing and clearing the overgrown forest. He is the only one who knows every inch of the property. During the creation of the Hall of Compassion, from sunrise to sunset, Mark worked side by side with the masters from Asia everyday. Lawai International Center is possible because of his presence of being...his heart and soul are immersed into every aspect of the Center.