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Localism is essential to a healthy surf spot. Without locals holding it down, the wave gets overrun by tourists and other surfers, and the surf spot loses its sense of order that every wave should have. Malibu, Calif., for example, is in shambles and chaos. The people that surf this wave have no surf etiquette or respect. In the 1970s on the North Shore, Da Hui would regulate the lineup with fights. It kept the lineup safe and also made sure everyone knew their place. Every year we see more people come to surf Hawaii’s waves, so the issue of overcrowding is going to get worse. But localism, while it might seem harsh at times, keeps the lineup in check. Nalu Sheppard >> Contact: 529-4831 (phone), letters@staradvertiser.com, staradvertiser.com/editorial/submit-letter
