His Royal Highness Prince Willem-Alexander of Oranje Attends the ‘Reinvent the Toilet’ Fair in Seattle. (VIDEOS)

His Royal Highness Prince Willem-Alexander of Oranje was in Seattle, Washington on August 13-14, 2012 to attend the Reinvent the Toilet Challenge and Fair.

So what is Reinvent the Toilet Challenge and Fair?  According to a press release via the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, organizers of the event, it is:

“…a competition in which scientists from 22 universities from around the world were asked to invent a waterless, hygienic toilet that is safe, and affordable for people in the developing world… the new toilet cannot be connected to a sewer, uses no water nor electricity…  Eight universities will be awarded grants to ‘reinvent the toilet.’ “

Prince Willem-Alexander of Oranje was invited to the event “… in his role as President of the Advisory Board for Water and Sanitation by the Secretary General of the United Nations.” During the two-day fair, the prince, along with Mr. Gates and other officials viewed various toilets, spoke with the inventors and gave speeches.

A commercial for Reinvent the Toilet.

This Week in Hawaiian Royal History… (VIDEO)

Here is a interesting fact recently published by ‘Iolani Palace via the now defunct Pacific Commercial Advertiser newspaper:

“On the afternoon Monday, August 12, 1882, His Majesty the King entertained the Nobles and Representatives at a banquet at the dining hall of the new palace….”

Click here to read the rest of the article on the official ‘Iolani Palace Facebook page. And, while you are at it why not “like” their page?  Why? Well, they always publish interesting news, upcoming events, and facts about the palace as well as the royal family.   🙂

And, finally, here is a video about the history of the palace and the Hawaiian royal family entitled, ‘Iolani Palace: A King’s Noble Vision.

All the latest news and events from monarchies around the world.