Clean Up of Maunalua Bay Successful

A clean up of Maunalua Bay organized by the Nature Conservancy and Malama Maunalua, paid for by Federal stimulus funds of $3.4 million, cleared reef-suffocating algae from 23 acres.  Volunteers and organizers have hauled away 2.9 million pounds of algae since 2009.  The invasive algae has spread since 1981 to more than 54 acres of healthy coral reef.  All of the algae collected has been turned into compost for local farmers.

According to the StarAdvertiser.com, "Work is expected to continue for about two more months. The project was completed under budget and created 75 jobs. Another 3,000 community members and hundreds of students from 12 schools donated their time."

The Maunalua Bay reef restoration project partners also include the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and natural resources management company Pono Pacific Land.

(Photo courtesy of HawaiiforVisitors.com)
Barbara Abe, Realtor
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
808-226-2537
http://www.movetohawaiikai.com/
http://www.barbarashawaii.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/abeb

Hale Ka Lae in Hawaii Kai Ready for Buyers

The new luxury condominium project, Hale Ka Lae, has held its public open house and broker's open, and is now accepting statements of interest from buyers.  Please let me know if you want more information.  The developer is letting buyers bring their own agents, if they are represented by the Realtor from their initial visit.

"Ka Lae" in Hawaiian means "the point" which could refer to the location, on the point of Hawaii Kai Drive, or a more symbolic meaning for the development itself.

Community features will include

• Lap pool
• Lagoon-style pool
• Extra storage, big enough for surf boards
• Private theater with stadium seating
• Indoor golf simulator
• Acoustically-insulated entertainment center
• State-of-the-art fitness center
• His and hers saunas
• Rooftop lanai with BBQ dining pavilions
• Outdoor lounge area with jacuzzi
• Private dining room
• Library
• 3 visitor guest suites
• Adjacent to 5-acre park
• Concierge services
• Gated and secure

There will be 4 individual enclaves with their own elevators, outdoor lanais, central air, energy-rated windows, top-of-the-line interior materials, gourmet kitchens, and luxurious baths. 

Hale Ka Lae will also be pet-friendly!.

I'll keep you informed of updates, and please call or email me if you have an interest.  I'd be pleased to email you copies of the floor plans and more details on the residence features.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
808-226-2537
http://www.movetohawaiikai.com/
http://www.barbarashawaii.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/abeb

Update on Hale Ka Lae, New Condo Development, Hawaii Kai

Last week I stopped by the Broker's Open given for Hale Ka Lae, the upscale new condo development that has been so many years in the making, at 7000 Hawaii Kai Drive.  Here is the latest news.

In Phase 1, there will be 242 "beautifully crafted condos designed for the modern lifestyle and energetic spirit."  Floor plans are "generous" - 992 - 1233 SF for a 1 bedroom/1.5 bath home ranging to 2,886 SF for a 3 bedroom/3.5 bath penthouse unit.

If what they promise does come true, Hale Ka Lae will be quite lovely.  Kitchens feature top-of-the-line Miele German appliances, and the entire home will be "upgraded" so there will be no additional upgrades to purchase.  The kitchens and baths are gorgeous (samples in the showroom).

Prices start at $685,265 for a one bedroom and go up to $3,393,568 for the 3/3.5 penthouse.

Feb. 19 is the launch date for their web site and going public.  Please let me know if you have an interest, so I can sign you up on their list.  Remember, to have a personal agent in new construction, that agent (hopefully me) needs to be involved from the very first interest you show.  Watch here for follow up posts on the construction and progress of Hale Ka Lae.

Barbara Abe, Realtor

barbara@barbarashawaii.com

808-226-2537

http://www.movetohawaiikai.com/

http://www.barbarashawaii.com/

www.activerain.com/blogs/abeb

New Restaurant in Hawaii Kai - Koa Pancake House

After reading the review by K5thehometeam.com, I had to give Koa Pancake House in the Hawaii Kai Towne Center a try.  The restaurant opened in December, and is doing a great business.  This is their 7th location on Oahu, offering an affordable with plenty to eat.

The K5HomeTeam wrote, "The griddle is loaded with pancakes for this new edition of the Koa Pancake House in the Hawaii Kai Towne Center. That's the one with Costco and Ross. Their kitchen never stops moving. They serve eggs, omelets, crepes, waffles – just about anything you want from 6:30 in the morning until two in the afternoon...Prices start at $3.50 for a short stack of pancakes or some waffles. But they also serve up burgers, sandwiches and plate lunches. They also have eggs benedict and strawberry pancakes."

So today I went for lunch with a friend from East Oahu Realty at noon.  It was already almost full.  10 minutes later it was completely full, and there were people standing waiting for tables. The menu is huge and we both ordered special of the day #1, which was omelette with portugese sausage, mushroom, spinach and cheese.  There was a choice of pancakes, rice, toast or home fried potatoes and we both had the potatoes.  It was very good, too much for me but I did make it almost through, just a few potatoes left. We left at 1:20 and by then there were a few empty tables.

Koa Pancake House
333 Keahole St
808-693-8855
Web site

Judging by my Google search, the new location has been reviewed by about every local restaurant site and then some.  Give it a try - average ticket is well below $10 and you'll be Eating Local.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
http://www.movetohawaiikai.com/
http://www.barbarshawaii.com/

Update on Lease Negotiations for Kamilonui Farmers of Hawaii Kai

After a demonstration on Kalanianaole Highway and several articles and blogs locally, regarding the price increase proposed for the leases of the farmers in the upper Kamilonui Valley of Hawaii Kai, the Kamehameha Schools, formerly known as Bishop Estate, has agreed to turn the issue over to arbitration.  Arbitration allows Kamehameha Schools and the farmers' group to each pick one appraiser, and the two appraisers mutually agree on a third.  The process could take 3-4 months.

The charitable trust broke off negotiations with the 10 farmers, and said it will settle the issue of resetting rents for the last 15 years of the farmers' leases on their 87 acres by arbitration.  The Trust also stated it is committed to keeping the land in agriculture for the next 15 years.  One would have to wonder if that means development after that time, since even now the farmers cannot pay to keep the land in its present use.

Many of the farmers are in their 80s and have farmed the land for 40 years or more.  They were relocated to the Kamilonui Valley when Henry Kaiser developed Hawaii Kai.  While rents haven't changed since they were established in the early 1970's, the farmers cannot necessarily pay more just because it is time to renegotiate.  The parcels run from 3 to 10 acres, and the farmers now pay an average of $185/acre/year.  The Trust wants to raise that to $5,200 = 28-fold increase. 

The Trust feels the farmers should have planned ahead for the adjustment to current market lease rates.  The farmers say they are willing to pay more but not beyond what they reasonably make from farming.  The small group commissioned a study from an agricultural economist, who negotiated successfully for about 200 Kona Coffee farmers on the Big Island, to assess what they could reasonably pay based on what they produce.  It found a reasonable rent would be about $1,000/year/acre, about 5 times more than current lease rent, but nowhere near the price the Trust set.  Kamehameha Schools rejected the report, and moved to arbitration.

Two tenants who opted not to be part of the small group have renewed their leases, according to the Trust.  It also said it has negotiated similar rents with several farmers who lease land not far from Kamilo Nui Valley behind Kaiser High School.

The farmers fear that such a big rent hike will put them out of business. "What else are we going to do? That's all we know, farming," said farmer Richard Higa.  Added Judy Nii, of R & S Nursery, "I don't think they realize how difficult farming is, and how small our profit margin is.  Basically they're asking us to work and give them whatever we make."

If you want to help the farmers' efforts, contact Rep. Gene Ward (R-Hawaii Kai – Kalama Valley).  He has said that he is keenly interested in keeping the Kamilonui Valley farmers on their agriculture lots, and that the Trust has not negotiated in good faith. He is calling upon the community to support the farmers.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
http://www.movetohawaiikai.com/
http://www.barbarashawaii.com/
http://www.barbaraabe.gmragent.com/

Roy Yamaguchi Selected for 2010 Hall of Fame, Hawaii Restaurant Assn

Roy Yamaguchi, who started his successful career in his Hawaii Kai restaurant, Roy's, in 1988, now operates more than 30 restaurants worldwide. His reputation for outstanding quality and service has long been established in the Islands. This year, he was selected, among many awards he has won in the last 20 years, for the 4th Annual Hall of Fame of the Hawaii Restaurant Assn.

His web site explains, "In Hawaii, there are two things of equal importance—food and the 'aloha' spirit. The blending of these two dynamic principles is how Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion® Cuisine was born. European techniques and Asian cuisine meet Hawaiian hospitality to create a fine dining experience unlike any other." Anyone who has eaten at one of the 6 Hawaiian Roy's, or 23 on the mainland, or Guam or Japan, will agree.

The presentation of the food, the exceptional service, and Roy's signature exhibition kitchen, in full view, make an evening you will remember and recommend.

Congratulations to Hawaii Kai's own Roy Yamaguchi!

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
www.movetohawaiikai.com  

www.barbarashawaii.com

www.activerain.com/blogs/abeb

(photo from archives of Roy's Restaurant)

Hawaii Kai Golf

In the words of a blog on golf vacations in Hawaii, "The problem with playing golf in Hawaii is distraction. Not too many people can concentrate on their backswings with the crystal blue waters of the Pacific to their right, a palm-lined fairway in front, a brilliant azure sky above, and a steady, relaxing breeze all around." If you want to play a few holes even with the "distractions," our Hawaii Kai Golf Course is the perfect location.

The Hawaii Kai Golf Course, a short drive around the base of Koko Head and past Sandy Beach, actually offers you two courses. Opened in 1973, the Championship course measures 6500 yards from the championship tee and features wide fairways, large greens with well placed bunkers and beautiful scenery. The course boasts the largest greens in the state with deep bunkers surrounding the greens. The coastline along this area of Oahu is probably the most beautiful on the island.

Every tee on the Championship Course offers a view of the Makapuu Cliffs, Pacific Ocean and the rugged eastern Oahu coastline. Wind is a significant factor and the gusts can take the spin off downwind shots and create a club selection problem on those holes where the golfer is playing into the wind. For most golfers who are not accustomed to playing the course, there is a tendency to under club on the ten holes which play into the wind.

Take a look at the course layout and scorecard on the course page.

The Executive Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., was opened in 1962. It is a 2223 yards , 54 par 3 layout that is characterized by small, undulating and sloping greens. The design requires emphasis on the golfer's putting and chipping skills, providing a challenge for even the most advanced player.

This course snakes up the base of the Makapuu Cliffs, offering views from every hole of the extinct Koko Head Volcano and one the most picturesque panoramas on Oahu. The greens are always in excellent condition at Hawaii Kai and tend to be fast especially in the summer months. Of course , tradewinds are always a factor, because the courses are close to the water and face the direction of the trades.

Take a look at the course layout and scorecard on the Executive Course page.

Hawaii Kai Golf Course also offers a pro shop, restaurant, driving range, and lessons. Details:

8902 Kalanianaole Hwy
Honolulu HI 96825
T: 808-395-2358
F: 808-395-7726
E: proshop@hawaiikaigolf.com

Here are their directions:
"Take H1 East which leads to Kalanianaole Highway ( Route 72). Continue on passing Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole and Sandy Beach on your right. About a mile past Sandy Beach, you will see a two-story building, the Hawaii Kai Club House on your left. A sign indicates the entrance to the golf course. Should you proceed beyond Hawaii Kai Golf Course, you will soon come to Sea Life Park on your left, famous for their dolphin and seal shows."

(note - Sea Life Park isn't quite that close. You have to go around Makapuu Point first, where you will often see whales in the winter months.)

There are many golf courses on Oahu. Visit GoHawaii.com for a complete list with site links.

As you drive through Hawaii Kai on your way to the golf course, be sure and take a look at our homes and community. Hawaii Kai is unique in the Islands and you can find real bargains now in condos or waterfront properties. Request my free Relocation Package, and call or email with your questions on how to live close to our Hawaii Kai Golf Course.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com

http://www.movetohawaiikai.com/

http://www.barbarashawaii.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/abeb

Enjoy Kona Brewing Company in Hawaii Kai

Next month, the Kona Brewing Company releases its annual Pipeline Porter, a dark ale mixed with local Kona coffee. With 2% of the average amount of caffeine in a cup of coffee, you won't have to worry about the beer keeping you awake. The brew is available September-March.

Their web site describes the beer: "Pipeline Porter is smooth and dark with a distinctive roasty aroma and earthy complexity from its diverse blends of premium malted barley. This celebration of malt unites with freshly roasted 100% Kona coffee grown at Cornwell Estate on Hawaii’s Big Island, lending a unique roasted aroma and flavor. A delicate blend of hops rounds out this palate-pleasing brew."

The company believes in sustainability and green business practices. It has reduced its bottle weight by 11% this year, employs a sustainability coordinator, and produces the certified-organic Oceanic Organic Saison.

Rich Tucciarone is the brewmaster at Kona Brewing Company. He is a judge at the Great American Beer Festival, to be held this year in Denver, and World Beer Cup, the world's largest-ever commercial beer competition.

Enjoy the variety of beers offered at the Hawaii Kai location of the Kona Brewing Company, in the Koko Marina Center, enroute to Hanauma Bay, 7192 Kalaniana'ole Hwy. This is a full-service restaurant on the Hawaii Kai marina, and features a state-of-the-art beer delivery system with 24 taps.

Yes, we have an enviable lifestyle in Hawaii Kai. Request my free Relocation Package, and call or email me for information on Hawaii Kai real estate.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
www.barbarashawaii.com
www.movetohawaiikai.com
www.activerain.com/blogs/abeb

Kamilo Nui Farmers in Hawaii Kai Face Steep Lease Increase

We've been wondering for a couple of years how the lease negotiations for the 13 farmers in upper Kamilo Nui Valley would resolve. Now we know.

Kamehameha Schools recently notified its farm tenants that it is seeking a roughly 25-fold increase in rent. The trust, Hawaii's largest private landowner, believes the offer is fair because the farmers have been paying rent set in the early 1970s. The farm leases call for rent to be reset now for the 15 years remaining on the leases. Kamehameha Schools spokesman Kekoa Paulsen said the trust wants farming to continue on the land, but also wants to receive fair market rent based on agricultural use. "We feel we're presenting fair values for the time and the area," he said. "They've been paying 1970s rents for 40 years."

While the farmers have been paying a rent set many years ago, that doesn't mean they can now afford such a large increase to keep their land. Many of the farmers, some of whom are in their 80s, say they cannot handle such a drastic hike, especially at their age and with the economy the way it is. They now face a rent increase from around $200 an acre per year to around $5,000 an acre per year, according to tenant and landlord representatives. The old rental rate expired July 1, so the revised rate will be retroactive.

Not only will the new lease price change the lives of many of the farmers, but if they leave or retire, this will no doubt influence the future use of the last undeveloped valley in Hawaii Kai. 40 years ago, the farmers were moved to Kamilo Nui Valley from other locations in Hawaii Kai, and they formed a coop to pay for the infrastructure of roads and water.

As reported in the StarAdvertiser, "Paulsen said the proposed rent is based on appraisals for farmland in the broader area. He added that similar lease rent increases were proposed for seven farms about a mile away behind Kaiser High School and that five tenants agreed on new lease rents within the last 18 months. Two of the 13 Kamilo Nui Valley farmers have agreed to new lease rents since the trust made its opening offer in a June 9 letter, Paulsen said.
'This is not a take-it-or-leave-it proposition,' he added. 'This is the beginning of the (rent negotiation) process.'

"Other new terms being proposed by Kamehameha Schools include allowing farmers to sublease parts of their farm, which would help older farmers generate more income, and receiving half of any proceeds if farmers sell their leasehold interest in the property. The trust, however, is not offering to extend the term of the lease beyond 15 years or sell the land to its tenants.

"Paulsen said Kamehameha Schools is not trying to push farmers off the land before their lease ends. 'We want farmers to be there,' he said. 'We want farming to continue on that land.' Beyond 15 years, Paulsen said it is uncertain what the trust would see fit to do with the property."

Read more at the StarAdvertiser.com.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
www.barbarashawaii.com
www.movetohawaiikai.com
www.activerain.com/blogs/abeb

Hanauma Bay in Hawaii Kai to be a Maintenance Priority

Honolulu City and County officials say they have a plan to repair and maintain the facilities at Hanauma Bay, which are in disrepair with some projects delayed for years. The city will take a more proactive approach by creating a weekly maintenance checklist.




Acting Honolulu mayor Kirk Caldwell says the city is well underway with repairs and that starting Tuesday, a new plan is in place. "On a weekly basis, we'll be getting a checklist of all the different areas of this bay that need to be properly maintained, and so when something is not working, we will know about it more quickly, in a more timely manner and it will be addressed and fixed in real time," Caldwell said.

"We believe we need to do a better job, that's what we've done now, we've got a checklist in place, we're going to be doing it on a weekly basis, when we find things that need to be repaired, it will be repaired," Caldwell continued.

Hanauma Bay repairs are funded by $5.9-million each year in non-resident fees, parking and concession dollars.

While maintenance needs are constant, the island treasure attracts almost a million visitors a year. A lot of these folks stop in Hawaii Kai en route, so it is in our community's interest to keep the tourist facilities in good condition too. We are pleased the City will be more active in protecting this beautiful Oahu natural attraction.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
http://www.movetohawaiikai.com/
http://www.barbarashawaii.com/
www.activerain.com/blogs/abeb

(resource: HawaiiNewsNow.com)

Ka Iwi Coast in Hawaii Kai Gains Needed Protection

The Hawaii Land Use Commission has designated 215 acres of land along East O'ahu's Ka Iwi coast added protection against development. The commission voted to reclassify the property from an urban to conservation designation under the state's land use law. The move puts another layer of protection on land now owned by the state with preservation zoning from the county.

The area reclassified stretches from Sandy Beach to Makapu'u Beach. Much of the land received $5 million in state improvements in 2006 that established a parking lot, put utility lines underground, created a clearly marked trail to Makapu'u lighthouse and barred off-road vehicles from driving in the Ka Iwi State Scenic Shoreline park preserve. "This action ensures that the entire coastline, from Hanauma Bay to Makapu'u, will remain undeveloped well into the future," said Abbey Mayer, director of the state Office of Planning, whose office filed the petition for the reclassification in January 2009 on behalf of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

There is still 181 acres above the Hawaii Kai golf course and seaward (mauka) above Queen's Beach that is privately owned. The property is in the state's urban district and zoned for preservation by the county, which in some cases allows recreational-type uses on such land. Though an initial application to develop the site was rejected by the county, the potential remains for the land to be developed.

If you want all of Ka Iwi protected, contact your state representatives and Gov. Lingle.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
http://www.movetohawaiikai.com/
http://www.barbarashawaii.com/

Hawaii Kai Heritage Sites to be Recognized

20 points of interest the state has designated as Heritage Sites throughout the Islands will receive new roadside markers, according to the Hawai'i Tourism Authority. As well as the roadside markers, the campaign includes a guide on its website in four languages with photos, descriptions and backgrounds of the various sites.

The campaign is an upgrade of the decades-old roadside "warrior" marker program run by the Hawai'i Visitors and Convention Bureau, the agency HTA contracts to market Hawai'i in North America.

The new roadside markers combine the old red, brown and yellow warrior image with an additional panel that reads "Heritage Site of Hawai'i."

In Hawaii Kai, Ka Iwi State Scenic Shoreline and Makapu'u Trail have been chosen.

If you haven't visited these sites lately to appreciate their beauty and historic significance, now there will be more ways to find them. Aren't we lucky to live Hawaii Kai?

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
www.barbarashawaii.com
www.movetohawaiikai.com

Hawaii Kai Included in Education Grant for Ahupua'a Boundaries

The Ko'olaupoko Hawaiian Civic Club has received a $47,269 grant from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, and part of the funds will be used to delineate the ancient districts - ahupua'a - on the island of Oahu. The boundary signs project received matching funds from the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation.

Ahupua'a are land divisions created from the mountains to the sea, whose resources once provided all the needs for the people living in those areas of the islands. The sign project has been under discussion for years, and the club decided to use old maps of the Hawaiian Kingdom that place Hawai'i Kai in the Waimānalo ahupua'a, Mahealani Cypher, club president. said.

The 11 Ko'olaupoko ahupua'a are Kualoa, Hakipu'u, Waikane, Waiahole, Ka'alaea, Waihe'e, Kahalu'u, He'eia, Kāne'ohe, Kailua and Waimānalo (including Hawai'i Kai). In the second phase of the project the club will hire teams of educators, including kūpuna and youths, to teach everyone about their natural and cultural resources and Hawaiian sustainability practices, Cypher said.

Greg Knudsen, Hawaii Kai Neighborhood Board Chairman, said the residents seem pleased, as board members are concerned about the protection and preservation of the Hawaiian culture and archeology.

If you would like to be involved in the project, contact the Ko'olaupoko Hawaiian Civic Club. They are a non-profit community organization dedicated to the perpetuation of the Native Hawaiian culture, our heritage and our people. Their membership is comprised of Native Hawaiians and "Hawaiians at heart," and is open to anyone interested in supporting cultural, educational and service programs primarily in the Ko`olaupoko area on the Windward side of the island of O`ahu, Hawai`i.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
www.movetohawaiikai.com
www.barbarashawaii.com

Update on Hale Alii Condo Development in Hawaii Kai

The Honolulu Advertiser reported this week on the progress of Hale Alii in Hawaii Kai, a luxury condo development - planned for the last 5 years - that will be mixed, by law, with affordable housing. The developers show units in escrow in the MLS, and have said 50% of the units in Phase I are sold out. But problems still need to be solved before the complex can move forward.

On April 5, the paper published, "A development firm planning a condominium in Hawai'i Kai with roughly 300 units has apologized to the community and is asking for a chance to better address concerns over the long-delayed project called Hale Ali'i. At a presentation for the Hawai'i Kai Neighborhood Board last week, project representatives pledged to end what in the past were sometimes combative actions that included threatening opponents with lawsuits, in hopes of advancing the project that includes both luxury and affordable units.

"Despite earning previous neighborhood board support, the project has been beset by issues including satisfying a county affordable housing requirement and protecting archaeological features on the property near the Oahu Club on Hawai'i Kai Drive. Design plans are being reassessed, and top management of Hale Ali'i Development LLC has been reorganized, according to Mike Greco, who was named Hale Ali'i's chief operating officer March 1."

Greco said changes are being made at the direction of Hanwha Corp., a South Korea-based company that is the majority investor in the project. The Advertiser stated, "Hale Ali'i's most recent design included an 11-story first phase with 133 luxury units ranging from about 1,500 square feet to 4,400 square feet with shared amenities including a wine tasting room, movie theater and resort-style spa. Unit prices ranged from about $1.3 million to $3.7 million when an initial batch of 68 units were placed on the market last year. The developer had anticipated starting construction last month, but has not.

"A second building expected to satisfy a county requirement to provide affordable units was to be developed adjacent to the luxury building and a private landscaped park with features including lagoon-style waterways, floating cabanas and a sand-edged pool with ozone-purified water." Greco told the neighborhood board that all the plans are now being reviewed and are subject to change.

Hale Ali'i Development recently hired Dawn Chang of local consulting firm Ku'iwalu as a cultural consultant, and public relations firm Communications Pacific to help with community outreach. Some residents have suggested the project site was once home to a heiau, or place of worship. Chang encouraged community members to share any information that would help confirm the location of Hawea Heiau or ensure better stewardship of the property.

If you have an opinion on this development, contact your local Hawaii Kai Neighborhood Board member. Hale Alii is planned on the last large parcel of undeveloped land zoned for homes in Hawaii Kai.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
http://www.barbarashawaii.com/
http://www.movetohawaiikai.com/

Volunteers Needed for Maunalua Bay

Maunalua Bay - our front door - is in trouble. As reported by Honolulu Advertiser, "Decades of polluted run-off have damaged this treasure. To save it, we have to take immediate steps, starting with an understanding of what's in it.

"Malama Maunalua, in partnership with the University of Hawai'i Sea Grant College Program, coordinates Mauka Watch, a program that trains volunteers to monitor the watersheds that empty into Maunalua Bay.

"Volunteers learn how to test water quality for damaging pollutants, and contribute valuable data to bay restoration. The Mauka Watch program augments the Makai Watch program, which educates about and monitors marine resources.

"A workshop is being offered March 25 (5:30-8:30 p.m.) and 27 (2-5 p.m.) to train new volunteers. This is an opportunity to learn about the watersheds and work with the community to restore Maunalua Bay. Volunteers are needed to attend two training sessions and conduct monthly monitoring starting in April.

"To register, contact Jolie Wanger at jolie@malamamaunalua.org, or call 808-744-0052."

Malama Maunalua is a community organization formed to preserve the Bay and restore the health of the waters. Read more about their restoration efforts on my web site blog, Maunalua Bay to Benefit from Stimulus Money.

We all need to appreciate and protect the natural resources which nurture and make Hawaii Kai what it is. Malama Maunalua needs our support.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
http://www.movetohawaiikai.com/

Jellyfish in Hanauma Bay of Hawaii Kai

Our beautiful Hanauma Bay in Hawaii Kai has been closed recently - which is not an uncommon yearly event - because of the box jellyfish visitation. They stay about 4 days, and were reported to be 100 strong by the 2nd day, Feb. 9.

Jellyfish stings are serious, and the creatures don't just show up in Hanauma Bay, but at various times, in waters around Oahu. Few box jellyfish stings in Hawaii cause life-threatening reactions, but this is always a possibility. Some people are extremely sensitive to the venom; a few have allergic reactions. Consider even the slightest breathing difficulty, or altered level of consciousness, a medical emergency. Call for help and use an automatic epinephrine injector if available.

From All Stings Considered, by Craig Thomas, MD and Susan Scott, here is a primer on treating jellyfish stings, if you swim to closely to one:

"Two concepts are key to treating box jellyfish stings. One is to prevent firing of any undischarged nematocysts remaining on the skin, thus preventing the injury from getting worse. The second is to treat the symptoms and pain caused by already-fired nematocysts. The following first aid treatment, based on current Australian research, is recommended for the stings of all species of box jellyfish:

*Immediately flood the area with household vinegar to keep undischarged nematocysts from firing. This does not relieve pain, but prevents additional stings.
*Never rub the area with sand or anything else.
*Irrigate exposed eyes with copious amounts of room temperature tap water for at least 15 minutes. If vision blurs, or the eyes continue to tear, hurt, swell, or are light sensitive after irrigating, see a doctor.
*Pluck off any vinegar-soaked tentacles with a stick or other tool.
*If the victim has shortness of breath, weakness, muscle cramps, palpitations or any other generalized symptoms, take them to an emergency room.
*For pain relief, apply ice packs. If pain becomes unbearable, go to an emergency room. No studies support applying heat to box jellyfish stings.

"Contradictory studies exist on the effectiveness of meat tenderizer, baking soda, papaya, or commercial sprays (containing aluminum sulfate and detergents) on nematocyst stings. These substances may cause further damage. Some kinds of meat tenderizer, for instance, can cause skin peeling. In one U.S. fatality from the box jellyfish, Chiropsalmus quadrumanus, rescuers placed meat tenderizer almost immediately on the affected arm. The child was soon comatose and later died.

"Alcohol and human urine are common nematocyst remedies, but both can be harmful. An Australian study reports that both alcohol and urine caused massive discharge of box jellyfish nematocysts.

"Most Hawaii box jellyfish stings disappear by themselves. Because of this, even harmful therapies can appear to work. A key concept in the first aid of any injury is: Do no harm. Therefore, avoid applying unproven, possibly harmful substances to stings.

"Occasionally, nematocyst toxins cause lymph nodes near a sting site to swell. If a red streak develops between the two areas, or if either area becomes red, warm and tender, see a doctor immediately!"

Enjoy our water resources, but share and be careful. Hawaii Kai is built around a water lifestyle. Contact me to find waterfront homes at great prices, and learn about our waterfront communities at my web site.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
www.movetohawaiikai.com
www.barbarashawaii.com

Heiau in Hawaii Kai

Pahua heiau, at the end of Makahuena Place, offers some evidence that this area may once have been a center of fishing and agriculture in what is now Hawaii Kai. The structure, estimated to be about 600 years old, is thought to have been an agricultural heiau or fishing shrine used by ancient Hawaiians planting sweet potatoes and dryland kalo (taro) or harvesting from fishponds that once lined the coast.

Pahua heiau sits on land gifted to OHA (Office of Hawaiian Affairs) by Kamehameha Schools in 1988. The heiau was partially restored by the Outdoor Circle in the mid-1980s, but remains relatively obscure to any but Hawaiian cultural practitioners and hikers, who reference the heiau as the starting landmark of the Kamiloiki Ridge Trail.

OHA conservation land manager Kevin Chang believes that the site can be a vehicle for community dialogue about sustainable land use and stewardship over a culturally significant resource. Chang applied for, and received, a $10,000 national conservation grant from Audubon and Toyota. This TogetherGreen Fellowship is meant to engage local residents in conservation and environmental health practices at the community level.

"Among OHA's goals for real estate is this idea of bridging the ancient use of land with future land use patterns," said Jonathan Scheuer, land management director for OHA. "As Hawai'i continues to change and develop, we want to do so in a way that the historic presence of Hawaiians is not obliterated from the landscape."

Chang is using the resources of OHA to assess the full historical relevance of Pahua heiau and the best way to revive the site's cultural significance within the surrounding community. "I'm going about it slowly. We want to be good neighbors and also culturally appropriate," said Chang. "It's balancing the past and the present and also breathing life into something we tend to see as only existing in the past."

Hawaii Kai is truly a special place. Request my free Relocation Guide and contact me about becoming a resident of our East Oahu paradise.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
www.movetohawaiikai.com

(resource: Honolulu Advertiser)

Roy's Restaurant, Hawaii Kai, Wins Best Restaurant of the Year

Roy's Restaurant in Hawaii Kai has won the prestigious Hale Aina Award of Honolulu Magazine for Restaurant of the Year. Previously, they had won the award in 1995, 2002, and 2004. They also won Hale Aina honors for Best Dessert, gold level; bronze-level awards for Best Place to Take Visitors, Best Outdoor Dining and Best Seafood; and becoming a finalist for Best Service, Best Value and Best Wine Program.

As reported by Honolulu Magazine, “'People are looking to us to do great things in food and service and our job is not to meet that expectation, but to exceed it,' said founder Roy Yamaguchi. Chef Yamaguchi balances the Roy’s Classics, dishes that people would be crestfallen if he were to remove from his menu—baby back pork ribs, misoyaki butterfish, blackened ahi—with exciting new dishes for the regulars, the 'guests we have who come in once a week, twice a week.'”

It’s been 21 years since Yamaguchi started Roy’s. “That’s one of the reasons I picked Hawaii Kai. I wanted it to be a community restaurant, part of something. We’ve seen children who came in here growing up; some are now married and have their own kids. They’re taking their parents for dinner here, instead of their parents taking them. It’s the greatest thing you can ever experience in a restaurant.”

There are now 34 Roy’s restaurants, six of them in Hawaii, but Yamaguchi obviously has a special place in his heart for the original location. “He’s here a lot,” says his executive chef, Ronald Nasuti. “He’s in the kitchen, trying new things. We want to keep our cuisine as cutting-edge as possible and, at the same time, always cater to the people of Hawaii.”

Roy's is one of our really outstanding restaurants on the island, and you can enjoy his fusion cuisine and service right here in Hawaii Kai. They are located in our building, almost directly upstairs, so come by and say "hi" on your way to pupus or dinner at Roy's.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-396-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
http://www.movetohawaiikai.com/
http://www.barbarashawaii.com/

Organic Beer comes to Hawaii Kai

Kona Brewing Company is set to tap up Oceanic Organic Saison, Hawaii’s first certified organic beer. The brewery received organic certification for the beer from Hawaii Organic Farmers Association (HOFA) and brewed it last month. The beer will be served on tap at Kona Brewing Company’s two pubs in Kailua-Kona and Hawaii Kai and at a few select Hawaii restaurants locations, by early January. Soon after, the beer will be available in 22-ounce bottles.

“We are ecstatic to be brewing the first certified organic beer in the state of Hawaii,” said president and CEO Mattson Davis. “We strive to be environmentally conscious in all that we do – from serving locally grown organic produce whenever possible to feeding Big Island cattle the spent grain from our brewing process. We’re proud that both our pubs recently became Certified Green Restaurants by the Green Restaurant Association. We have improved our efficiencies here in Hawaii and beyond in order to minimize our carbon footprint.”

According to the press release, Oceanic Organic Saison is a Belgian-style ale that was brewed with all organic malt, fermented with a custom blend of Belgian yeast strains and spiced with an abundance of organic hops, organic coriander and grains of paradise. The straw-colored unfiltered beer has a crisp, dry, quenching flavor and distinctive spicy aroma with notes of lemon peel, clove, white pepper, coriander and fresh hops complemented by pleasant cellar-like notes. The complex aroma is balanced by rustic hop flavor.

Kona Brewing Company chose to obtain its certification through HOFA, thereby supporting a local nonprofit organization and keeping business in Hawaii. HOFA is accredited by the USDA National Organic Program to certify organic crop, livestock and processing / handling operations. It is the only accredited organic certification agency based in Hawaii. Brewing this organic beer is roughly six times more expensive than most of Kona Brewing Company’s more conventional beers, which are already approximately 50 percent more expensive to brew in Hawaii than on the mainland.

The beer ompany was started in the spring of 1994 by a father and son team who had a dream to create fresh, local island brews made with spirit, passion and quality. It is a Hawaii-born and Hawaii-based craft brewery that prides itself on brewing the freshest beer of exceptional quality, closest to market. This helps to minimize its carbon footprint by reducing shipping of raw materials, finished beer and wasteful packaging materials.

The Kona Brewing Company pub in Hawaii Kai is a very popular local gathering place. Stop by next year and try the new beer, and look around at our real estate buying opportunities while you visit Hawaii Kai. Contact me when you are ready to preview properties or want information on Hawaii Kai homes for sale.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
www.barbara@barbarashawaii.com

www.movetohawaiikai.com


(resource: press release, Hawaii 24/7)

Lunalilo Home in Hawaii Kai gets a MakeOver

Trustees, administrators, physicians and staff from The Queen's Medical Center spent last Saturday beautifying Lunalilo Home, the state's oldest elder-care facility. In keeping with the medical center's 150th anniversary, 150 volunteers painted interiors and exteriors, and did landscaping duties at the Hawaii Kai property.

"We do a lot of community service projects, but this was by far the most rewarding," said Queen's volunteer manager Beverly Parker. "I can't wait to see (the residents') faces when they see what we've done. Today was such a joy."

Medical director Dr. Gerard Akaka, who spent his morning stacking mulch and transporting it by wheelbarrow to landscapers, said he appreciated the chance to get his hands dirty.
"It was hard labor but it was very gratifying," he said. "Personally, I really enjoyed being able to give back to our kupuna and to support what this home stands for."

Organizers noted that it was King Lunalilo's bequeathal of lands (including the property on which the International Market Place now stands) to Queen Emma that enabled the queen to found and maintain The Queen's Medical Center.

Located at 501 Kekauluohi Street, King Lunalilo Home was established in 1883 as an adult residential care home facility by the will of King William Charles Lunalilo for native Hawaiian elderly. It was renovated in 2001 to house 42 residents. In 2004, Lunalilo Home expanded its services to include adult day care, temporary respite care and dietary services to senior citizens of all ethnic backgrounds. The King Lunalilo Adult Day Care Center is licensed for 44 participants.

In the spirit of Hawaii Kai Aloha, Lunalilo Home belongs to all residents. We are lucky to have an elder care facility so close.

If you have questions about other elder services available in Hawaii Kai or on Oahu, contact me for information on our lifestyle and resources.

Barbara Abe, Realtor
808-226-2537
barbara@barbarashawaii.com
http://www.movetohawaiikai.com/
http://www.barbarashawaii.com/

(resource: Honolulu Advertiser)