Large Swell Expected, High Surf Warning IssuedLarge Swell Expected, High Surf Warning Issued

The National Weather Service issued a High Surf Warning for the North and West facing shores of Molokai and the North facing shores of Maui until 6 p.m. Thursday.

A High Surf Warning indicates that dangerous battering waves will pound the shoreline.  This will result in very dangerous swimming conditions and deadly rip currents.

A large West-Northwest swell will arrive in the islands tonight and affect various North and West facing shores through Thursday.  In addition to the high surf, moderately high tides are expected during the warning period which can cause additional beach run-up.

Surf along north facing shores of Molokai will be 20 to 30 feet.

Surf along west facing shores of Molokai will be 15 to 20 feet.

Surf along north facing shores of Maui will be 20 to 25 feet.

Forecast surf heights are estimates of the height of the face or front of waves.

A high tide of approximately 2.5 feet is expected between 1:35 a.m. and 2:53 a.m. Wednesday morning.

PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES:   A HIGH SURF WARNING INDICATES THAT DANGEROUS, BATTERING WAVES WILL POUND THE SHORELINE.  THIS WILL RESULT IN VERY DANGEROUS SWIMMING CONDITIONS AND DEADLY RIP CURRENTS.  BEACH GOERS ARE URGED TO STAY OUT OF THE WATER AND WELL AWAY FROM THE SHORE BREAK DUE TO THE HAZARDOUS WAVE ACTION AND STRONG RIP CURRENTS.

INFORMATION:   Maui County Civil Defense will continue to monitor the situation.  Please listen to your local radio and TV stations or NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts for any updates.   NOAA Weather Broadcasts can be reached by calling 1-866-944-5025.   NOAA Weather Internet services can be found at www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl.

Tax Return Delay Implemented to Save State Money

The State Department of Taxation will delay payment of tax refunds for 2009.  The action to delay payment until July 1, 2010 is being taken to mitigate the state’s projected $721 million revenue shortfall.  Tax officials say delaying the refunds will provide an estimated one-time savings of $275 million which will go towards balancing the state budget.

The Tax Department will release refunds beginning in July on a first-in-first-out basis, ensuring that early filers receive their refunds first.

State tax officials say the action complies with the legally allowed 90-day refund period.  Under current Hawai‘i law, if the director of taxation approves a refund voucher within 90 days from the due date or the date the return is filed, whichever is later, and the refund check is mailed 45 days from the date of the director’s approval, no interest is paid.  However, if either of these time limits is exceeded, interest will be paid.

For faster receipt of refunds, taxpayers are advised to have their refunds directly deposited into their bank account by providing their bank routing number and account number and indicating the type of account (savings or checking) on their individual net income tax returns. Direct deposits will be the most efficient way to receive refunds.

The refund delay was originally announced in the executive supplemental budget that was submitted to the Legislature on December 21, 2009.  Beginning July 2010, taxpayers may contact the Taxpayer Services Call Center during business hours at 808-587-4242 or 1-800-222-3229 (toll free) for information on the status of their refunds.

House Judiciary Hears Hawaiian Homes Casino Bill

The House Judiciary Committee this afternoon will hear bills relating to the legalization of gaming in Hawaii.  The bill was introduced by Rep. Mele Carroll of Maui.  HB2759 seeks establishment of casino gaming operations on designated Hawaiian Home Lands parcels.

File photo courtesy Office of Mele Carroll.

The measure would impose a wagering tax on gross receipts with 20% going towards the State’s general fund and 80% going toward the Hawaiian Home Lands trust.  Carroll introduced the bill in part to provide a mechanism in which DHHL could generate funds independently and diminish its reliance on the state.

DHHL currently earns about $16 to $17 million dollars in commercial lease properties and gets  $30 million appropriated annual through the legislature because of a prior lawsuit, with the allocation due to expire in 2015.

DHHL officials say approximately 25,000 applicants for Hawaiian Home Lands have been waitlisted and the department is only able to process between 500 and 1,000 applications per year with current funding.

In a media release issued last week, Representative Mele Carroll said, “I’m introducing this bill not as a commercial enterprise, but as a mechanism that would allow DHHL to decide whether they want to consider gaming as a way to put more people onto Hawaiian Home Lands and to better fund their infrastructural and social programs.”

In addition to generating funding for DHHL and its beneficiaries, this bill is also aimed at invigorating Hawai`i’s economy by creating jobs for those in the construction and entertainment sectors as well as boosting hotel occupancy.

Archived Story from 2/5/2010:  Hawaiian Homelands Casino Bill Introduced by Mele Carroll of Maui

Judge Orders Makena Beach & Golf Resort to be Sold at Auction

The Makena Beach and Golf Resort will be sold at auction under an order issued by a Maui Judge.

Circuit Court Judge Shackley Raffetto appointed Honolulu real estate developer and broker Cris Lau as Commissioner to sell the property in an effort to satisfy the unpaid mortgage debt on the property.

File photo of Makena Maui, © 2010 by Wendy Osher.

The marketing company for the property issued a media release today saying the property is expected to be sold at public auction in April 2010 to pay the current mortgage dept in excess of $192.5 million.

The resort, formerly known as the Maui Prince Hotel, is located on the slopes of Haleakala and includes substantial property adjacent to a secluded beach on the southwestern Maui coast.

”While ownership of the property will change hands, no one expects any changes for employees, visitors and guests,” the release said.  Chris Lau, the court appointed commissioner, stated, “My job, ordered by the court, is to transition ownership since the current owners could not pay the mortgage. I expect the resort to operate ‘business as usual’ throughout this process.”

The hotel has been managed by Benchmark Hospitality International since September 17, 2009 with oversight by attorney Miles Furutani, the court appointed receiver.

Kelly Lewis, general manager of the Makena Beach and Golf Resort, said, “The performance at the resort has improved substantially. We are excited about the improvements we have been able to offer in guest experience and look forward to announcing our new restaurant and lounge offerings next month.”

Barry Sullivan, attorney for the foreclosing lender, stated, “We have complete confidence in Mr. Lau and look forward to concluding this process over the coming months. Thanks to the work of Benchmark and the receiver appointed last September, resort performance has not only stabilized but we see very positive momentum and we look forward to that continuing,” said Sullivan.

After the auction is held, confirmation by the court and closing is expected to take another three to four months.

The resort has been owned since July of 2007 by a joint venture between affiliates of Everett Dowling and a Morgan Stanley real estate fund. That venture borrowed $192.5 million of mortgage debt and an additional $227 million of debt that was not secured by the mortgage.

Wells Fargo, as trustee for the mortgage debt, initiated foreclosure in August of 2009 after the venture defaulted on its mortgage and other debt obligations.  To oversee resort operations and transition to new management, court-appointed receiver Miles Furutani will remain in possession of the resort until closing with the new owner.

(Posted by Wendy Osher)

Olowalu Cultural Reserve Among 35 Projects Receiving 2010 OHA Grants

Posted by Wendy Osher

The Olowalu Cultural Reserve on Maui will get more than $44,000 in the latest round of grants announced today by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.  The money will be used for the reconstruction of the ahupua’a at Lihau, Olowalu.  The project is aimed at perpetuating traditional and customary practices of Kanaka Maoli and protecting natural resources.

Another project exclusive to Maui and included on the list of grant recipients is the Kihei Youth Center.  The facility is earmarked for $48,000 in grants to support the MERITS after-school homework assistance program at the Kihei Youth Center.

OHA trustees approved a total of $2.2 million in community grants for 35 projects aimed at supporting non-profit community groups who work to make a difference in the lives of Native Hawaiians, and ultimately the community at large.

OHA Chairperson Haunani Apoliona said the OHA is pleased to support those who make a difference in the midst of a struggling economy, “The $2.2 million will fund projects ranging from mobile health screening for diabetes to substance abuse rehabilitation to the promotion of innovative, culturally-based curriculum development at Hawaiian immersion schools,” said Apoliona.

In selecting grant recipients, the OHA Board of Trustees gave full consideration to projects that would ensure that Native Hawaiians have continued opportunities in health care, human services, education, housing, economic development, native rights and cultural preservation.

“With resources dedicated to these critical arenas, Native Hawaiians will be in a better position to contribute to the state’s economic recovery and OHA is thankful that it is able to come through with help during these tough economic times,” Chairperson Apoliona added.

The complete list of Office of Hawaiian Affairs Community Grants Program Recipients for fiscal year 2010 is as follows:

• Aka‘ula Middle School – $86,076 for PRISM, a culturally responsive educational program. (Moloka‘i)
• Alu Like, Inc. – $49,605 for coordination of ten workshops to help küpuna manage chronic disease. (O‘ahu, Moloka‘i)
• American Diabetes Association of Hawai‘i – $34,350 for the Vision Project, providing a mobile retinal scan screening unit for early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes. (All islands)
• American Lung Association of Hawai‘i – $28,843 for Maopopo Oli Hänö, a school- based asthma education and management program. (O‘ahu, Maui & Hawai‘i Island)
• Arizona Memorial Museum Association – $100,000 to support a Pearl Harbor Visitor Center display on the Hawaiian cultural significance and history of the Pu‘uloa area (O‘ahu)
• Bay Clinic – $42,000 to support expansion of a diabetes self-management program in the Puna district, targeting high-risk Native Hawaiians (Hawai‘i Island)
• Boys and Girls Club of Hawai‘i – $58,650 to improve the new Youth Education Town (YET) with support for certification in LEED (leadership in energy and environment design) and Native Hawaiian-focused stewardship projects for youth. (O‘ahu)
• Family Support Services of West Hawai‘i – $57,500 to support Nä Makuakäne Maika‘i O Hawai‘i, a program to increase parenting skills for fathers through culturally-based practices and program support. (Hawai‘i Island)
• God’s Country Waimänalo – $61,000 to support a hands-on learning program in cultural activities, including: ka ‘äina (growing potted gardens), ke kai (ocean skill building), and mea ha‘i‘ölelo (story-telling/communication). (O‘ahu)
• Hale ‘Öpio Kaua‘i – $45,350 for implementation of Ke Kahua O Ka Mälamalama, an afterschool program to engage students in Native Hawaiian cultural practices and values. (Kaua‘i)
• Hawai‘i Maoli on behalf of the Ko‘olaupoko Hawaiian Civic Club – $47,269 for a civic club multi-purpose cultural project and installation of ahupua‘a highway boundary markers. (O‘ahu)
• Ka ‘Aha Hui Na‘auao – $30,678 for Ka Papa ‘Oihana or Perpetuating traditional Hawaiian Knowledge, Cultural and Natural Resources, an instruction program in traditional hale construction and wood sculpture. (O‘ahu)
• Ka Hale Pömaika‘i – $100,000 for the expansion of substance abuse treatment and recovery services. (Moloka‘i)
• Ka Meheu ‘Ohu O Ka Honu on behalf of Ho‘omanao I Nä Wä I Huliau – $65,000 to support the traditions and culture of Native Hawaiians through the re-creation of visual images via photographs, written text, and storytelling. (All islands)
• Kaua‘i Economic Opportunity, Inc. – $58,745 to support the operation of the Mana‘olana emergency homeless shelter on Kaua‘i. (Kaua‘i)
• Kawaikini New Century Charter School – $55,250 to support curriculum development and a pilot project for 3rd and 4th graders. (Kaua‘i)
• Keömailani Hanapï Foundation – $91,500 for the Native Hawaiian art education project, HOEA, including operational support and the establishment of a community art space and storage facility. (Hawai‘i Island)
• Kïhei Youth Center – $48,000 to support the MERITS after-school homework assistance program at the Kïhei Youth Center. (Maui)
• Külia Nä Mamo – $50,000 to support equitable employment for the transgendered and homosexuals through employers on how to retain those employees. (O‘ahu)
• Leadership Kaua‘i – $25,000 for the annual Adult Leadership Program and Pi‘ina Hökü Youth Leadership Program. (Kaua‘i)
• Lunalilo Home – $100,000 to provide financial assistance to indigent Hawaiian küpuna not able to afford care at Lunalilo Home. (O‘ahu)
• Lyman Museum – $59,328 to support protection and restoration of Hawaiian cultural artifacts in the museum’s collections. (Hawai‘i Island)
• Nänäkuli Housing Corporation – $98,723 to assist Native Hawaiian families with home repair and/or replacement needs. (O‘ahu)
• Narconon Hawai‘i – $49,500 to support the outpatient drug rehabilitation program located in Kalaeloa. (O‘ahu)
• National Tropical Botanical Garden – $62,522 for the cultivation of native plants in Hä‘ena to be made available and used as resources by the Native Hawaiian community. (Kaua‘i)
• Neighborhood Place of Kona – $99,648 to support the prevention of child abuse and provide child abuse prevention information to rural areas. (Hawai‘i Island)
• Olowalu Cultural Reserve – $44,530 for reconstruction of the ahupua‘a at Lïhau, Olowalu, to perpetuate traditional and customary practices of Kanaka Maoli and protect natural resources. (Maui)
• Pacific American Foundation on behalf of Digitalmoku.net – $49,720 to establish an Internet site on the history of the Kohala district with online access to ethnographic interviews with cultural experts and community members. (Hawai‘I Island)
• Pacific Health Ministry – $38,241 to support mobile and free blood pressure screenings, health assessments, and health referrals for low-income, elderly and homeless populations living on beaches and in transitional housing. (O‘ahu)
• PA‘I Foundation – $49,600 to support MAMo 2010: a month-long celebration of Native Hawaiian arts and culture intended to highlight contemporary Native Hawaiian artists. (O‘ahu)
• Partners In Development Foundation – $99,984 for Kökua ‘Ohana, a program to increase the number of licensed Native Hawaiian families providing homes for Native Hawaiian foster children. (O‘ahu)
• Tri-Isle Resource Conservation and Development Council, Inc. on behalf of Lanaihale Forest & Watershed Project – $89,770 for the Läna‘ihale Forest and Watershed Project to protect the habitat of the endangered Hawaiian Petrel bird (‘ua‘u) and recharge the Läna‘ihale watershed by removing invasive species.
• Wai‘anae Coast Coalition on behalf of Wai‘anae Coast Family Center (Pa‘a Hala) – $100,000 to provide family conferencing and cultural classes and support the goal of establishing a Hawaiian cultural center for farming and monthly hö’ike. (O‘ahu)
• Waimänalo Health Center – $100,000 to support Kü I Ka Mana, a Native Hawaiian mentoring program for Waimänalo Middle School students to increase knowledge of healthy living and make positive lifestyle choices. (O‘ahu)
• Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Kaua‘i – $50,000 to support domestic violence intervention and sex offender treatment programs. (Kaua‘i)

New Requirements Aimed at Protecting Sensitive Sites at Kealakekua Bay

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is implementing new measures to improve its management of the Kealakekua Bay State Historic Park and better protect the sensitive natural, historic and cultural resources of the area.

To prevent damage to the shoreline and coral reef and accidental destruction of significant historic and cultural sites by large numbers of visitors, DLNR is now requiring that visitors to the park receive information regarding the sensitive sites and guidance on how to assist in preserving the area during their visit.  Effective February 23, 2010 information will be provided through a simple permit system for people seeking to land vessels along the Ka‘awaloa shoreline or moor at the wharf adjacent to the Captain Cook Monument in the bay.

“Residents can easily access free education and cultural practices permits that will provide guidance to ensure there is no accidental damage to the cultural sites,” said Laura H. Thielen, DLNR chairperson.

Signs will be posted at entry locations along the bay to notify people of this system and provide information on how they can obtain a permit. The same notice has been posted and distributed by DLNR enforcement officers at Napo‘opo‘o Pier.

Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park and Ka‘awaloa peninsula within the bay have an abundance of fragile and significant archaeological sites. Ka‘awaloa is the shoreline commonly used to access the famous Captain Cook Monument from the bay. Boaters also use the shoreline to beach their vessel before snorkeling at Ka‘awaloa Cove.

DLNR is informing kayak rental vendors of the new permit requirement, and has also conducted recent law enforcement actions at the pier in cooperation with Hawai‘i County Police to address illegal commercial kayak rentals.

Maui January Home Sales Down After 17 Month High

Posted by Wendy Osher

Home sales on Maui dropped in January to 46 following December’s 17-month high of 90 homes sold.  Officials at the Realtor’s Association of Maui say the results were possibly caused by sellers and buyers timing transactions to close in 2009 for tax reasons.

Home prices also slipped slightly in January to $469,000, while condos rose to $424,000.  Condo sales also dropped slightly to 71 units sold in January compared to 80 in December.

In a nutshell, the Realtor’s Association of Maui says the market seems to be getting its footing with median prices bouncing along the bottom.  The inventory includes many short sales and REO bank owned properties that the association says must be absorbed as sales before the island can move ahead to a more normal marketplace, at which time prices will eventually start to rise.  The association says interest rates remain at historic lows, however qualifications are stiffer.

The majority of home sales in January were in Kihei where 10 homes were sold for a median price of $419,000.  Central Maui and Pukalani both recorded 7 homes sold.

As for condos, Kihei led the market as well with 28 condos sold for a median of nearly $327,000.  There were a dozen condos sold in the Napili/Kahana/Honokowai area and 8 sold in Kaanapali.

1,517 Acres of Maui Forest Considered for Inclusion in Natural Area Reserve

By Wendy Osher

The Department of Land and Natural Resources is proposing the designation of more than 15-hundred acres on Maui for inclusion in the State’s Natural Area Reserve System.

The land is located in the Nakula region of Haleakala and includes a tract of Koa dominated forest that state officials say is rapidly disappearing from the leeward slopes.

A forest restoration program, including construction of fences intended to improve habitat for other rare forest birds is ongoing at the location.

DLNR officials say the area includes native plant communities, the majority of which are imperiled, and none of which are well represented within the statewide NAR system.

The item comes up for discussion in a meeting of the land board on Thursday.  The board will consider a request for a public hearing on Maui regarding the proposed addition of Nakula into the Natural Area Reserves System, and withdrawal from its current designation as State Forest Reserves land at Kahikinui.

Maui to Use Stimulus Funds to Improve Energy Efficiency of County Facilities

The County of Maui is seeking proposals from qualified vendors to conduct investment grade energy audits using federal stimulus funds. Twelve county facilities, including fire stations, senior centers and a community center will be audited under the plan. The audit is expected to provide baseline energy data, physical condition of the buildings, and basis for energy efficiency savings measures.  Funds for the audit were provided by the U.S. Department of Energy utilizing American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds.

“This is a significant step towards finding energy savings for the County,” said Mayor Charmaine Tavares. “From this study we can make decisions based on data collected and make good progress on our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint.”

The deadline for proposals to be submitted is 4:00 p.m. on Friday, February 26th, 2010. Proposals will be accepted by the Department of Finance, Purchasing Division, located in the Wells Street Professional Center at 2145 Wells Street, Suite 104, in Wailuku.

Solicitation documents are available at the Office of the Department of Finance, Division Purchasing, or online at www.mauicounty,gov/bids.aspx

(Posted by Wendy Osher; Supporting Information Courtesy County of Maui)

Wind Advisory Issued for Summit of Haleakala

The National Weather Service has continued a Wind Advisory for the Summit of Haleakala on Maui unit 6 p.m. Monday, February 8, 2010.

A Wind Advisory means that winds of 30 mph are expected.

The National Weather Service says high pressure building to the West and fading low pressure to the East will keep North to Northeast winds blowing strongly over the summit of Haleakala today.

As a precautionary measure, motorists are advised to use extra caution as winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

Those that live in the upper elevations should also secure any loose objects that may become airborne or move them indoors.
The NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts can be reached by calling 1-866-944-5025.  The NOAA Weather Internet services can be found at www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl.

Hawaiian Homelands Casino Bill Introduced by Carroll of Maui

Representative Mele Carroll (House District-13^th) of Maui, Chairwoman of the House Committee on Native Hawaiian Affairs, introduced a bill that, if passed, would give the Hawaiian Homes Commission the right to build and operate gaming facilities on Hawaiian Home Lands with the approval of the beneficiaries. HB 2759 specifies that 20% of revenue would go toward the State’s general fund and 80% would go toward the Hawaiian Home Lands trust.

Rep. Mele Carroll of Maui introduces gaming legislation. Courtesy Photo.

The legislature appropriates $30 million annually to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) due to a prior lawsuit, but the allocation is due to expire in 2015.  In a testimony by DHHL Chairman Kaulana Park noted that approximately 25,000 applicants for Hawaiian Home Lands have been waitlisted and DHHL is only able to process between 500 and 1,000 applications per year with current funding.

Carroll introduced HB 2759 in part to provide a mechanism in which DHHL could generate funds independently and diminish its reliance on the state.  When questioned by Rep. Carroll about the department’s ability to decrease the waitlist when the $30 million goes away, Bobby Hall, Executive Assistant to the Director of DHHL, said that the department is looking at an aggressive approach to replacing the funds and has made great strides to create revenue-generating projects to support the department’s mission.

DHHL currently earns about $16 to $17 million dollars in commercial lease properties. Their operations cost about $15 to $16 million dollars per year, essentially breaking nearly even.  “This is scary and I don’t want to wait until we see that day where the resources are gone and we are back to step one waiting to get on the lands,” says Representative Mele Carroll.  “We need to take bold steps and creatively do something now.”

HB 2759 stipulates that casinos must submit receipts of their monthly earnings, which would be taxed and closely monitored for discrepancies.  Representative Mele Carroll notes that “Since we want the money to go back into the community, we would set up safeguards to prevent the embezzlement of the funds or other illicit activities.  I’m introducing this bill not as a commercial enterprise, but as a mechanism that would allow DHHL to decide whether they want to consider gaming as a way to put more people onto Hawaiian Home Lands and to better fund their infrastructural and social programs.”

With the approval of the governor, the Hawaiian Homes Commission would have the power to decide whether to allow gaming and on which land to build gaming facilities.  At that point, each DHHL community would have the final say as to what type of gaming facility, if any, they want built and what games would be permitted within that structure.  According to Representative Mele Carroll, “The intent of this bill is to ensure that communities who decide to permit gaming would be able to customize the facilities and services to their particular homesteads.”

Carroll introduced HB 2759 in part to provide a mechanism in which DHHL could generate funds independently and diminish its reliance on the state. Courtesy photo.

In addition to generating funding for DHHL and its beneficiaries, this bill is also aimed at invigorating Hawai`i’s economy by creating jobs for those in the construction and entertainment sectors as well as boosting occupancy at our hotel resorts.  Representative Mele Carroll suggests that “gaming facilities could serve as a place where native Hawaiian entrepreneurs could promote their goods and services to a wider audience.” Moreover, Hawai`i residents who travel to Las Vegas for gaming in that city could be able to partake of the same activities without spending money on airfare, hotel rooms, rental cars, and other travel expenses in other states.

Twenty-two years after U.S. Congress passed the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, John Radcliffe, a former resident of Wisconsin who now serves as President of Capitol Consultants, Hawai`i, notes that the Pottawatami reservation “is still gorgeous,” but now most residents have new houses and cars.  He proposed that gaming could lessen Hawai`i’s dependency on Federal monies and either supplement or supplant such at-risk federal social welfare programs as Social Security and Medicare.

Kale Gumapac, spokesperson of the Kanaka Council Moku O Keawe, witnessed a similar scenario at the Tulalip Reservation in Washington.  He says, “the benefits of gaming would be tremendous for the Hawaiian people in realizing health, social, and economic revitalization.

Carroll said, “With courageous and strong leadership, I think that this bill has the potential to vastly improve the lives of Native Hawaiians and the State at large.”

(Posted by Wendy Osher; supporting information courtesy Office of Rep. Mele Carroll)

Maui Teacher Faces Drug Charges

A Maui teacher is free on bail this morning after her arrest on drug charges on Tuesday, February 2, 2010.

47-year-old Cheryl Bisera was charged with various drug related offenses including 3^rd degree promotion of a dangerous drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and promotion of a controlled substance near a school.

Courtesy Photo.

Maui police executed a search warrant on the woman’s Molokai Akau Street home at 6:40 a.m. on Tuesday as part of an ongoing investigation.  During the search, authorities say they recovered 2.9 grams of crystal methamphetamine, a glass pipe, empty drug baggies and digital scales.

Maui Police Capt. Gerald Matsunaga with the MPD Vice Division said the maximum penalty for the three charges is 5 years in jail for each count, for a maximum total term of 15 years.

Bisera was released after posting $3,000 bail.

Wailuku Asked to Conserve Water

Department of Water Supply customers in Wailuku are asked to conserve water this weekend while the Waiale Tank is off-line for a tie-in project. Affected areas include Wailuku Heights, Waikapu, Kehalani (mauka of Honoapiilani Highway), Maui Tropical Plantation, Kahili Golf Course and King Kamehameha Golf Course. Conservation is requested from 9:00 p.m. Thursday, February 4, to 8:00 a.m. Monday, February 8, 2010.

Customers are urged to conserve water by turning off irrigation systems and other non-essential uses of water for the weekend. This will allow the Department to preserve water levels in the storage tanks for health and safety purposes.

During this time, the 3 million-gallon Waiale Tank off of Waiale Road will be out of service due to a tie-in to connect the new Maui Lani Wells to the county system. The wells should be online by the beginning of April.

In addition, on Friday, the tank shutdown may cause low water pressure in Kahului. This includes the area around Lihikai School between Onehee Avenue, Palama Drive, South Wakea Avenue, and Kaahumanu Avenue. The Maui Lani subdivision, Lihikai and Pomaikai Elementary Schools, and Maui Waena Intermediate School will also experience very low water pressure.

Customers are urged to call the 24-hour service line (270-7633) only if a water problem occurs.

A&B Net Income is Down Two-Thirds in 2009

Posted by Wendy Osher

Earnings at Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. (NYSE:ALEX) for 2009 were down about two thirds from the previous year.  Net income for the company dropped from $132.4 million in 2008 to just $44.2 million in 2009.

File Image

Meantime, revenue for the full year 2009 was $1,404.8 million, compared to revenue of $1,879.8 million for the full year 2008.

Company president and CEO Stan Kuriyama said, “The Company’s modest profit in 2009 was hard earned in a very difficult operating environment for all of our lines of business.”

The company’s agribusiness segment reported continued struggles with drought-induced lower yields in its core sugar operations.  A&B also received lower rates for power it produced and sold to the electric utilities on Maui and Kauai.

“Increases in domestic sugar prices and improving yield forecasts have positioned Agribusiness for a major improvement in 2010. Adequate access to irrigation water must be maintained to ensure ongoing operating viability over the longer term,” said Kuryiama.

Kuriyama said the cost cutting actions taken in the past two years, well positions the company in 2010 as markets begin to recover.

Kuriyama said, “Despite the challenging earnings environment, the Company generated positive operating cash flow, while improving its overall financial condition. While some of 2009’s economic challenges will persist throughout 2010, the Company is much better positioned to create near-term earnings growth and long-term value in a more stabilized environment.”

In the company’s Ocean Transportation sector, Kuriyama said there should be benefits as volumes stabilize in the key Hawaii trade and prices firm in the China trade.  He did note there may be challenges in achieving historical margins at lower volume levels.

The report further noted that Logistics Services should similarly benefit from some recovery in domestic volumes and rates.

In the Real Estate sector, the company anticipates leasing to be challenged with lower revenues due to lower rents and occupancies, and higher depreciation related to newly acquired properties.  Despite the challenges, A&B anticipates continued generation of significant cash net operating income.

“As economic growth returns, we are confident that the Company’s capital resources to support new investments, and strong franchises and market positions in our shipping and real estate businesses, will result in shareholder value creation and earnings growth in 2010 and beyond,” said Kuriyama.

Maui County to Publish Green Book Directory of Eco Conscious Businesses

Eco-conscious businesses are invited to submit their information for inclusion in The Maui County Green Book.  The publication is scheduled for release in May and will be printed on recycled paper with soy ink.

The guide is being created in partnership between the County of Maui and Haynes Publishing Company of Wailuku.  The directory will include eco-conscious businesses on Maui, Molokai and Lanai that provide sustainable, and, or, environmentally friendly products or services.

In addition to the printed version, The Maui County Green Book will also be available digitally in the form of a searchable, interactive web directory.

To have your company included in The Maui County Green Book, fill out the application available at www.mauicountygreenbook.com , describing products and, or, services offered.

Task Force Proposed to Consider Creation of Queen Kaahumanu Monument in Hana

By Wendy Osher

The state legislature is considering two resolutions that seek the creation of a task force to consider the merits of creating a monument to Queen Kaahumanu in Hana, Maui.

File Photo of the annual lei draping ceremony held in March 2009 at the Queen Kaahumanu Statue in Kahului. The legislature is considering a concurrent resolution that seeks the creation of a task force to consider the merits of creating a monument in Kaahumanu's honor in Hana, the area of her birth. Photo by Wendy Osher

Kaahumanu was born around 1770 to parents Keeaumoku and Namahana in a cave at Kauiki Hill in East Maui and was taken as an infant to the Kaniomoku Heiau.  She served as kuhina nui or co ruler of the kingdom with Liholiho and then as a regent during Kauikeauoli’s reign.

The resolution states that although a statue of Queen Kaahumanu already exists at the Queen Kaahumanu Center in Kahului, “a monument to the Queen at or near Hana, Maui, the area of her birth, paying tribute to and memorializing her valued contributions to the Kingdom of Hawaii and the history of Hawaii, would be appropriate and would benefit our current residents and visitors alike.”

The resolutions urge the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to create the task force and request the inclusion of respected kupuna and representatives from appropriate Hawaiian organizations, such as the Royal Order of Kamehameha, the Ahahui Kaahumanu Society, the State Council of Hawaiian Homestead Associations, the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs, Kamehameha Schools, Native Hawaiian Culture and Arts Program of the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, Queen Liliuokalani Children’s Center, the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, and a representative from the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

Concurrent Resolutions SCR35 and HCR9 were introduced by Sen. Colleen Hanabusa and Rep. Calvin Say, and have since been referred to respective committees for review.

If the items are passed by the legislature this session, they call for the task force to consider the nature and precise location of a Queen Kaahumanu monument; and to submit their findings to the Legislature prior to next year’s session.

According to the resolution, Kaahumanu was considered the first and favorite wife and close advisor of Kamehameha I.  She was described as a forceful person who exerted great impact, influence, and power during much of the Kingdom’s existence, as an advisor and co-leader.  She played a key role in challenging the traditional kapu system and served as a catalyst and shaper of the evolving relationship between ancient Hawaii and the arrival of Christian beliefs, morals and spirituality.

Mayor Proclaims February “Got Choice… Think Local” Month on Maui

Mayor Charmaine Tavares issued a proclamation today declaring February “Got Choice… Think Local” month in the County of Maui.

Mayor Charmaine Tavares looks at a promotional t-shirt displayed by Economic Development Coordinator Deidre Tegarden (left). Photo courtesy County of Maui.

The proclamation kicked off the county campaign, which promotes the support of Maui businesses and encourages the public to keep their dollars circulating within the community.

Promotions featured during the month-long campaign include incentives like a complimentary reusable shopping tote for consumers with receipts totaling at least $50 spent at any business in Maui County this year, and coupons valid for various benefits offered by the more than 180 participating local businesses.

During the proclamation signing, Tavares said, “You have choices to make everyday on what to spend your dollar on. This is the way we can all make a positive difference in our community during these tough times. Put your dollar into the right hands – the hands of someone in our own community.”

County of Maui Economic Development Coordinator Deidre Tegarden said the campaign is, “already taking off in a big way.”

In her remarks, Mayor Tavares said, “Buying local is an investment in our community that supports local families, and highlights how buying locally produced, fresh and nutritious agricultural products can help ensure that there will be farms and ranches in our county for future generations.”

Kanemitsu Promoted to Maui Police Captain

Maui Police Department Lieutenant Donald Kanemitsu was promoted to the rank of Captain in the latest round of promotions announced by Chief Gary Yabuta today.

Maui Police Department Lieutenant Donald Kanemitsu was promoted to the rank of Captain in the latest round of promotions announced by Chief Gary Yabuta.

Kanemitsu is a 20 year veteran with the department and most recently served in the Criminal Intelligence Unit, where he has served in three separate assignments as a Patrol Officer, Sergeant and Lieutenant.

Kanemitsu joined the department in December of 1989.  As a Patrol Officer he was assigned to the Wailuku Patrol District, Lahaina Patrol District, Lahaina Patrol’s Crime Reduction Unit and the Criminal Intelligence Unit.

Following his promotion to the rank of Sergeant he was assigned to the Molokai Patrol District, Wailuku Receiving Desk, Criminal Investigation Division and the Criminal Intelligence Unit.  When rising to the rank of Lieutenant, he served as the Communications Section Commander, Lanai Patrol District Commander, Community Relations Section Commander and lastly the Criminal Intelligence Unit Commander.

In his new capacity as Captain, that took effect on February 1, 2010, Kanemitsu is being assigned as the District Commander of the Kihei Patrol District.

Maui Police Department Lieutenant Donald Kanemitsu was promoted to the rank of Captain in the latest round of promotions announced by Chief Gary Yabuta today.

Kanemitsu is a 20 year veteran with the department and most recently served in the Criminal Intelligence Unit, where he has served in three separate assignments as a Patrol Officer, Sergeant and Lieutenant.

Kanemitsu joined the department in December of 1989.  As a Patrol Officer he was assigned to the Wailuku Patrol District, Lahaina Patrol District, Lahaina Patrol’s Crime Reduction Unit and the Criminal Intelligence Unit.

Following his promotion to the rank of Sergeant he was assigned to the Molokai Patrol District, Wailuku Receiving Desk, Criminal Investigation Division and the Criminal Intelligence Unit.  When rising to the rank of Lieutenant, he served as the Communications Section Commander, Lanai Patrol District Commander, Community Relations Section Commander and lastly the Criminal Intelligence Unit Commander.

In his new capacity as Captain, that took effect on February 1, 2010, Kanemitsu is being assigned as the District Commander of the Kihei Patrol District.

MCC Adds 769 Students, Enrollment up 24 Percent

Maui Community College registered 4,078 students, a gain of 769 or 23.2 percent.  MCC reported the greatest enrollment increase behind Windward Community College where enrollment increased 24.3 percent.

Statewide, the 55,761 students at the 10-campus University of Hawaii System set an all-time record for spring enrollment. Spring enrollment increased for a third straight year, with all campuses reporting increases.

“Our record high enrollment shows that the public continues to turn to higher education as a way to improve themselves and their opportunities during these difficult economic times. The University of Hawai‘i provides an excellent education at a great value, and our campuses are doing everything they can to accommodate the demand for their services despite limited resources,” said Linda Johnsrud, UH vice president for academic planning and policy.

UH’s preliminary opening credit enrollment figures for spring 2010 increased by 4,809 students, or 9.4 percent, compared to spring 2009, and by 7,515 students, or 15.6 percent, compared to spring 2008.

UH Mānoa posted a slight increase of 2.8 percent, or 518 students, from a comparable date in spring 2009 for a total enrollment of 19,286 students. The other nine campuses experienced a wide range of increases from 5.1 percent to 24.3 percent.

UH Hilo’s opening spring enrollment stands at 3,864 students, a 5.1 percent gain (187 students) over last spring, while UH West O‘ahu’s enrollment is at 1,278 students, an increase of 11.5 percent (132 students) from the previous year.

Enrollment at the UH community colleges rose to 31,333, an increase of 3,972 students, or 14.5 percent, above spring 2009. Kapi‘olani Community College posted the largest numerical gain of any UH campus with 880 more students than last year, while Windward Community College boasts the largest percentage growth in enrollment at 24.3 percent. Specific figures for the community college campuses are:

• Hawai‘i Community College stands at 3,252 students, an increase of 14 percent or 400 students;
• Honolulu Community College registered 4,494 students, an increase of 481 students or 12 percent;
• Kapi‘olani Community College enrolled 8,782 students, a gain of 880 or 11.1 percent;
• Kaua‘i Community College recorded 1,346 students, a 21.6 percent increase or 239 students;
• Leeward Community College has 7,076 students enrolled, an increase of 752 students or 11.9 percent;
• Maui Community College registered 4,078 students, a gain of 769 or 23.2 percent; and
• Windward Community College recorded 2,305 students, a gain of 451 or 24.3 percent.

Separately, more than 27,000 registrations in non-credit programs are expected throughout the UH System.

Showers Make Their Way Over Maui County

(Updated @ 3:45 p.m. 2/2/2010)

The flood advisory for the island of Molokai was cancelled shortly before 4 p.m. (2/2/2010) as showers moved offshore.  The approaching front continues to move from the northwest , producing clouds and showers over Maui County tonight.  The front is expected to reach the Big Island Early Wednesday.

(Updated @ 2:25 p.m. 2/2/2010)

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has continued the FLOOD ADVISORY for the ISLAND OF MOLOKAI in effect until 5:00 p.m. This Advisory may be extended beyond 5:00 p.m. if heavy rain persists.

At 1:51 p.m., radar showed heavy rain moving over the eastern portion of Molokai with rainfall rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour.

Other locations in the advisory include but are not limited to Halawa Valley, Pukoo and Kamalo.

As a precautionary measure, the public is advised to stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low lying areas prone to flooding.

Rainfall and runoff will also cause hazardous driving conditions due to ponding, reduced visibility and poor braking action. Do not cross fast flowing or rising water in your vehicle or on foot. Turn
around…don’t drown.

NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts can be reached by calling 1-866-944-5025.  The NOAA Weather internet service can be found at www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl.

(Updated @ 12:15 p.m. 2/2/2010)

The National Weather Service has issued a FLOOD ADVISORY for the ISLAND OF MOLOKAI in effect until 3:15 p.m. This Advisory may be extended beyond 3:15 p.m. if heavy rain persists.

At 12:11 p.m., radar showed heavy rain over central and western portion of Molokai.  Radar estimated rain rates at 2 to 3 inches per hour.

Other locations in the advisory include but are not limited to Molokai Airport, Kualapuu, Kepuhi, Kaunakakai, Kalaupapa and Hoolehua.

As a precautionary measure, people should stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low lying areas prone to flooding.

Rainfall and runoff will also cause hazardous driving conditions due to ponding, reduced visibility and poor braking action. The National Weather Services advises the public not to cross fast flowing or rising water in vehicles or on foot…turn around…don’t drown.

Maui County Civil Defense will continue to monitor the situation.  Please listen to your local radio and TV stations or NOAA Weather Radio for any updates.

NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts can be reached by calling 1-866-944-5025.  The NOAA Weather internet service can be found at www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl.