I think discussion of how a Hawaiʻi delegate behaved on national television is not a frivolous discussion.  Yes, there are many more important issues, but racism, sexism, regionalism, nationalism, culture – these, too are important topics.  The middle-finger gesture is internationally considered vulgar.  While it expresses extreme displeasure it also suggests wished-for harm to the other person, and that is not Aloha.  If anything is “local” it should be Aloha.  We already have a non-verbal gesture to express Aloha – shaka.  I suggest that the people of Hawaiʻi adopt a visual gesture to express extreme displeasure that is more refined and not violent.  How about making an “X” with your left and right index fingers and looking unhappy while doing it?  I would prefer that those who represent the Aloha State express displeasure with Aloha and grace.