You know how frustrating it can be when you consistently reach out to a person or a business, only to receive no response? Despite trying multiple times, the silence can be disheartening. I can’t speak for others, but I know how I feel: instead of giving up, I persist in my attempts to engage because I am not one to easily back down.
Having shared my thoughts on that matter, I would like to shift focus to today’s topic regarding Duke.
As I have mentioned in previous blogs, my reflections on Duke extend beyond his accomplishments as an Olympian or his connection to surfing. They encompass my personal experiences and the connections I draw from them.
Recently, I received a brochure from Legends Bay Casino titled “Sizzlin’ Summer Offers.” After leaving it on my counter for a few days, I finally opened it and noticed several enticing offers, including dining credits, match play coupons, and a complimentary movie ticket.
Among the items I found, I came across a $25 dining coupon for “Duke’s Steakhouse.” Intrigued by the potential connection to the Duke brand, I inquired with my partner for confirmation; however, he does not believe that the Duke’s Steakhouse in our town is affiliated with Duke Kahanamoku’s brand. To clarify this matter, I conducted an online search and confirmed that there is indeed no association.
Months ago, I learned that various locations across the mainland and in Hawaii are named in honor of Duke Kahanamoku. However, my hometown of Reno, NV, does not have any Duke’s restaurants, which led me to assume that the steakhouse in the Legends Bay Casino was linked to the renowned Olympic champion and surfing pioneer. Unfortunately, this assumption was incorrect.
The Duke’s restaurants in Hawaii and California are operated by TS Restaurants, known for their beachfront locations and celebration of Hawaiian culture.
I recalled emailing the restaurant in Huntington Beach and the Waikiki location, inquiring whether they could send me a brochure featuring Duke’s information. Regrettably, I did not receive a response. I attempted to follow up, but again, there was silence. This lack of communication has prompted me to consider reaching out directly to TS Restaurants in hopes of a more favorable outcome.
If there were any establishments related to Duke in my hometown, I would have discovered them long ago; hence my persistent inquiries. Unfortunately, my efforts with the aforementioned restaurants have yielded little success, but I remain determined to continue my search.
This situation reminds me of my experience with Vans. I reached out via email and traditional mail, requesting stickers or merchandise featuring Duke, given their collaboration with him in 1966 and the revival of the patterns he once wore in 2007. I mentioned in my letter that, as a woman with a shoe size of 5.5, it is nearly impossible for me to own Duke’s shoes, which are primarily designed for men.
Despite the temporary challenges I face, I remain committed to expanding my collection, confident that I will uncover more memorabilia along the way. These setbacks will not deter my enthusiasm.
For those who are fans of Duke and have access to restaurants bearing his name, I encourage you to dine there and experience the spirit of Hawaii.
The featured image for this blog showcases an excellent example of the vibrant graphics and locations owned by TS Restaurants, all of which you should consider visiting.
As for me, living in a place devoid of Duke’s restaurants or stores leaves me with no opportunity to immerse myself in anything related to him. I am just grateful I am able to widened my search of anything related to him.
This concludes my blog for now. Until next time!