Growing up on Maui, Clifford Nae'ole knew that the hospitality industry had come to stay. But he also saw the negative impact it could have upon the "host." As a student of hula and employed at the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, Nae'ole had noticed errors around the hotel — in the language, props, marketing terms — that needed to be addressed.

The hotel answered the call and appointed Nae'ole to be the resort's full-time cultural adviser, a position he describes as "being in the trenches trying to turn things around."

Nae'ole succeeded: In 2005 the hotel was honored with a Keep it Hawai'i-Kahili Award in the business category for the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua's annual Spring Celebration of the Arts.

Nae'ole, architect of the annual celebration, describes the event as "celebrating the common ground that art creates ... an opportunity for immersion into the Hawaiian culture and to learn the significance of our Islands and our people in the world view."

On a deeper note, Nae'ole said the Kahili award meant that finally the Hawai'i Tourism Authority had recognized Hawaiian practitioners as judges to determine who was really trying to "keep it real."

"Being recognized by your peers for the programs in operation was a real honor and incentive to try harder," he said.

Over Easter weekend, the 17th Annual Celebration of the Arts once again fills the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua resort, three days packed with artisans, cultural practitioners, workshops, films, food and music. The event traditionally brings together first-time visitors to the Islands as well as those from around the state.

"It's an opportunity to create that perfect bridge that enables Hawaiians to share their thoughts through education rather than intimidation ... and for the visitor to listen, learn and to hopefully contribute some positive answers for our future," said Nae'ole.

Organizing the festival is a part of his job Nae'ole loves: "Being able to share our culture and see the change in the visitors' thinking as they FINALLY understand the history, accomplishments and status of the Hawaiian," he said. "I want people to listen to each other; I want Hawaiians to listen to each other. Sometimes we are our own worst enemy. If we come together and listen to grassroots voices, it will help us move forward together as a nation and for people to know us better."

Celebration of the Arts is April 10-12 at the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua. Kama'aina Package, $225 per night, includes accommodations, breakfast for two and daily valet parking. 808-669-6200, www.celebrationofthearts.org.

WAIKIKI

TIME FOR SONG AND GAMES AGAIN AT ANNUAL HAWAIIAN SCOTTISH FESTIVAL

If the travel budget won't stretch across the pond to Scotland, dust off the tartan and head to Kapi'olani Park for the annual Hawaiian Scottish Festival & Highland Games — two full days of athletics, piping, dance and song.

Clans will gather from around Hawai'i — you can search for your Scottish ancestors at the genealogy tent.

Open events including the caber toss are on Saturday; games competitors should sign up by 8 a.m. The Masters' events are Sunday.

Celtic Pipes and Drums, Scottish singers and dancers, parades, games and haggis make for a grand wee day. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 4-5 at Kapi'olani Park Bandstand. www.scotsinhawaii.org