Get ready for skyrocket airfares for inter island flights in Hawaii when Mesa Air Group will shut down the inter-island airline go! effective April 1, 2014
GO Airlines operated by the Mesa Air Group announced today the closure of Go as of April 1
Competitor Hawaiian Airlines will have close to a monopoly on the Hawaiian market and airfares may increase rapidly. When GO Airways started Hawaii residents and visitors enjoyed airfares of $19.00 each way in between islands. Families and friends on different islands could meet for a weekend or for lunch. Today airfares are well over $100.00 each way topping sometimes $250.00, and once go Airlines is gone there is no limit of what Hawaiian Airlines can do to separate the Aloha State even more. Air service is essential for the State of Hawaii, since a ferry service is no longer available.
For about a year Hawaii enjoyed the Superferry at peak times with two passenger frequencies between Oahu and Maui.
Many thought Hawaiian Islands may have been behind helping environmental groups to sue the ferry company and eventually succeeded. Hawaii's only passenger service had to close operation giving airlines 10 plane loads of passengers back every day.
Rumor said Hawaiian Airlines had a quiet role in pushing competitor Aloha Airlines out of the market and into bankruptcy.
Mesa Airlines released this statement today:
Mesa Air Group, Inc. (“Mesa” or "Company") announced today that it will cease its Hawai’i operations effective April 1, 2014. Since June 2006, go! has served its nearly five million passengers with safe, reliable and low fare service.
The decision to cease operations in Hawaii follows significant growth in the Company’s flight operations on the mainland and was a strategic decision to focus the organization on maximizing its growth in the capacity purchase “codeshare” operations which comprise over 98 percent of the Company’s business
“While this was an extremely difficult decision to reach, we believe it is in the best interest of Mesa’s long term strategic objectives, particularly given the Company’s ongoing expansion of aircraft in service with United Airlines and US Airways. Mesa will be placing into service 30 EMB 175 aircraft with United beginning in June 2014, and is adding 4 CRJ-900 aircraft with US Airways in 2014, having added 9 CRJ-900s in 2013,” said Jonathan Ornstein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “With the significant expansion opportunities in flying large regional jets in contracted service, we are re-deploying the go! aircraft to support our existing mainland operations. An additional factor that we accounted for was the long term increase in the cost of fuel, which has more than doubled since go! began service and has caused sustained profitability to be elusive” continued Ornstein.
Under the terms of an agreement with Hawaiian Airlines, go! will be able to re-book passengers ticketed through go! for travel scheduled between April 1, 2014 and June 30, 2014 in specified fare classes on Hawaiian’s Interisland network. go! will refund tickets for passengers who cannot be accommodated on Hawaiian Airlines, or for passengers holding tickets for travel after June 30, 2014. All ticket holders will be contacted by go! reservations representatives regarding the re-accommodations. Customers and travel agents needing additional information may call 1-888-435-9462 or visit the website at .
"go! will continue to provide its passengers with safe and reliable transportation through its last day of service, and will work with our passengers and Hawaiian Airlines to minimize the impact that this announcement will have on our passengers,” noted Chris Pappaioanou, President of go!.
“On behalf of Mesa Air Group, I would like to thank all of our many loyal passengers and the continued hard work and dedication of our employees – all of whom will be given an opportunity to continue their employment with Mesa Airlines. While we say goodbye to our many passengers in Hawaii, we look forward to serving you on the mainland through our significant codeshare operations,” continued Ornstein.
Mesa currently operates 71 aircraft with approximately 407 daily system departures to 85 cities, 36 states, the District of Columbia, Canada and Mexico. Mesa operates as US Airways Express and United Express under contractual agreements with US Airways and United Airlines, respectively. The Company was founded by Larry and Janie Risley in New Mexico in 1982.
Mesa makes its living primarily by flying small aircraft on regional feeder flights for larger carriers like United Airlines and US Airways.
Hawaii News summarized the go history in a report published today.The report reads: Mesa Air came forward as a potential buyer during the bankruptcies of both Hawaiian Airlines and Aloha Airlines, signing agreements not to disclose or use any proprietary information it saw about those airlines' business plans or costs. But rather than buy either carrier, Mesa founded go!, launching service on June 9, 2006 from Honolulu to Hilo, Kona, Kahului and Lihue.
Both Hawaiian and Aloha would eventually sue, and Hawaiian won, then settled out of court for a large enough sum to cover its jet fuel expenses during a run-up in oil prices.
When Aloha, facing similar fuel bills, shut down at the end of March 2008, the bankruptcy court found that one of its most valuable remaining assets was its lawsuit. The Yucapia Cos., which had provided funding to Aloha, acquired the suit and sold it to Mesa, effectively ending the litigation.
Both Hawaiian and Aloha had accused Mesa of predatory pricing, which is illegal, and the Hawaiian lawsuit produced a smoking gun memo, but Mesa claimed the memo, despite charts and graphs showing how it could outlast Aloha in a price war, was a joke, and the Justice Department never pursued it.
Aloha Airlines did a cost analysis which found that Mesa's fares meant not only that it was operating at a loss, but that it needed more money per passenger than either Aloha or Hawaiian to break even because of the small size of its aircraft. Eventually go! fares rose to much higher levels.
When Aloha left the interisland business, however, passengers flocked to Hawaiian instead of go!, and go! was further rocked by Mokulele Airlines briefly flying jets on the same four main interisland routes. Mokulele didn't last long as a jet-flying carrier but go! didn't get to grab Aloha's former market share, either. In recent months it was down to flying two jets.
Monday, March 17, 2014
Tourists are still visiting Hawaii but spending less
The Hawaii Tourism Authority has reported its fifth consecutive month of year-on-year declines in visitor spend. Total visitor expenditure fell to -4.7% to $1.37 billion in January, despite welcoming 682,364 visitors – similar to 2013 levels.
Growth in international visitors by air in January compensated for losses in arrivals from the USA. Japanese visitor arrivals climbed by +7% to 126,330 visitors in January 2014. But daily spend from Japanese tourists dropped by -11.9% to $295 per person, resulting in a -7.3% decline in expenditure to $212 million.
Daily spending by Japanese visitors has declined in 12 of the past 13 months. In January daily spending on shopping fell -16.8% (to $78 per person). Spending on lodging (-12.8% to $119), food & beverage (-3.3% to $51), and transportation (-12.8% to $12) also saw a decrease compared to January 2013.
Australian passenger arrivals increased by +12.5% to 28,229 visitors in January 2014 and arrivals from New Zealand nearly doubled to 4,889 visitors. Arrivals from Korea increased +33.5% to 16,637 visitors in January 2014.
Chinese passenger arrivals rose +5.5% to 10,887 visitors and there were three times more visitors from Taiwan in January 2014 (4,025 compared to 1,345 a year ago).
Growth in Canadian arrivals (+4.2% to 70,167 visitors) was also offset by lower daily spending (-14.9% to $147 per person), resulting in a -8.7% drop in Canadian visitor expenditures to US$153.6 million in January 2014.
Arrivals from all other regions were up +9% to 90,396 visitors, with significantly more visitors from Other Asia (+29.3%) and Oceania (+20%). Combined expenditures from All Other visitors of US$219 million was similar to January 2013.
Cruise ships passenger arrivals decreased by -3.1% to 17,680 visitors.
USA West visitor expenditure fell -6.1% to $393.8 million in January 2014 as a result of fewer arrivals (-4.6% to 231,871 visitors) and lower daily visitor spending (-2.5% to $154 per person). USA West visitor expenditure and arrivals have been in decline since August 2013.
USA East arrivals decreased by -4.1% to 146,190 and daily spending fell by -0.9% to $204 per person, leading to a -3.1% drop in visitor expenditure to US$381.8 million. This was the fourth consecutive month of year-on-year decline in USA East visitor expenditures and arrivals.
Total number of seats to Hawaii grew to 946,549 in January 2014, up by +3.4% compared to January 2013. Scheduled seats from Asia (+21.5%) and Oceania (+20.1%) rose significantly and scheduled seats from Japan (+10.2%) and Canada (+9.1%) also increased. Growth in scheduled seats from USA West (-0.7%) and East (+0.6%) was flat compared to January 2013.
Families and providers rally at the capitol for quality and improved access to early learning
As part of National Education Week 2014, children, families and community-based early learning providers gathered today at the State Capitol to rally for quality and improved access to early learning programs.
Executive Office on Early Learning Director GG Weisenfeld, who was joined by state legislators, preschoolers, community groups and business representatives, welcomed the crowd to the rally. The rally included a children’s concert as well as information and hands-on activities for adults that demonstrate the level of quality that is infused in prekindergarten classes.
Representatives from the Department of Human Services’ Preschool Open Doors program were on hand to distribute applications and answer questions. The program, which provides subsidies to eligible low- and moderate-income families that send their children to community-based prekindergarten programs to prepare them for kindergarten, was established by the Legislature last year as a vehicle for the state’s school readiness program.
“We need people to know that this is not just daycare. This is quality early learning experiences for our children so they can be ready to succeed,” said Christina Cox, president of KCAA Preschools of Hawaii. “Community-based preschools support working parents' need for full-day care for their children and are uniquely suited to provide both quality education and care in a nurturing and stimulating environment.”
At the start of the rally, Director Weisenfeld read a special message from Gov. Neil Abercrombie, who was unable to attend. It stated, “Any vision for early learning for all four year olds in Hawaii must include you, educators who are already here – who have long been working with children in the classroom to find what works best for the keiki in your community. Your teaching is not just daycare – you provide some of the first and most crucial skills and learning experiences that make these children ready to succeed.”
There are 17,000 four-year-old children in Hawaii. To prepare as many four year olds for kindergarten as possible, it is important to use and expand the already-existing, mixed-delivery system in our state.
Community-based early learning providers are an integral part of this mixed-delivery system. These providers have been the dominant delivery method for serving our four year olds.
This November, there will be a question on the ballot that will ask voters whether the state constitution should be changed to permit public monies to be used to fund private, community-based preschools. If voters approve, the state will be allowed to contract with private, community-based preschools, supporting existing services and even expanding them to meet the public need.
Gov. Abercrombie’s proposal to increase the number of four-year-old children who can have prekindergarten experiences also includes funding for preschools on some Department of Education campuses and family-child interaction learning programs.
The Executive Office on Early Learning (EOEL) was established by Act 178 (passed as Senate Bill 2545) and signed into law by Gov. Abercrombie in June 2012. The creation of EOEL provides government-wide authority to guide the development of a comprehensive and integrated statewide early childhood development and learning system.
For more information, visit earlylearning.hawaii.gov
HTA releases visitor statistics report for January 2014
The Hawaii Tourism Authority has revised select sections of the visitor statistics report for January 2014 that was originally distributed on February 27, 2014. Updates were made to the "per person per day spending on each island" which subsequently changed "per person per trip spending by island" and "total expenditures for each island" on pages 1, 4 and 5.
The monthly news release reports highlights of preliminary visitor characteristics, expenditures, and airseats at the statewide level and for the top four major marketing areas (U.S. West, U.S. East, Japan and Canada).
January 2014
UPDATED January 2014 News Release [pdf]
UPDATED January 2014 Table [xls]
UPDATED January 2014 News Release [pdf]
UPDATED January 2014 Table [xls]
Friday, March 14, 2014
Popular “MAUIWatch” facebook page founder files federal lawsuit against Maui County for unlawful attempts to silence speech
The ACLU of Hawaii Foundation (“ACLU”) announced today that a
lawsuit and request for a temporary restraining order (“TRO”) have been filed against Maui
County based on the County’s efforts to restrict what Neldon Mamuad may say on his prominent
“MAUIWatch” Facebook feed. The lawsuit asks for a court order declaring the County’s actions
to be unconstitutional as well as expungement of any record of disciplinary action from
Mamuad’s employment records. The TRO asks that the County immediately stop threatening
Mr. Mamuad for his speech and conduct outside of work. Cooperating attorneys Marcus
Landsberg IV and Maui-based attorneys Phillip Lowenthal and Samuel MacRoberts are
assisting with the case.
Neldon Mamuad is both an employee of Maui County and a volunteer Liquor Commissioner - newly appointed Liquor Commission Chairman. Outside work, he is well known for enjoying vigorous debate on the actions of local police and other public figures, first via his radio show “TAGUMAWatch” – dedicated to personal stories from both supporters and detractors of a high- profile Maui police officer – and Maui law enforcement. In 2013, Mr. Mamuad took the discussion online, to a Facebook page later renamed “MAUIWatch,” where it carries on its work crowdsourcing Maui news and traffic in real time. MAUIWatch, with nearly 26,000 Facebook followers, is one of the most-cited Maui-based news sources, utilized by national networks and local newsgathering organizations across the State.
Cooperating attorney Marcus Landsberg IV said: “Like many people who work by day and blog by night, Mr. Mamuad never uses County computers or time for his personal hobby, which is protected free speech. If Mr. Mamuad weren’t a County officer, the County wouldn’t be able to touch him at all – his speech is completely protected by the First Amendment. But because he also serves as a volunteer Liquor Commission Chairman, the County believes it has the right to control everything he does and everything he says in his free time. This is contrary to well- settled federal law – public employees don’t give up their free speech rights merely because they work for the government.”
Plaintiff Neldon Mamuad said: “I am a Part-Time County employee and volunteer Liquor Commissioner. Government officers & employees have First Amendment rights, and I just want the County to respect mine. If I was none of those, we would never be here.”
Neldon Mamuad is both an employee of Maui County and a volunteer Liquor Commissioner - newly appointed Liquor Commission Chairman. Outside work, he is well known for enjoying vigorous debate on the actions of local police and other public figures, first via his radio show “TAGUMAWatch” – dedicated to personal stories from both supporters and detractors of a high- profile Maui police officer – and Maui law enforcement. In 2013, Mr. Mamuad took the discussion online, to a Facebook page later renamed “MAUIWatch,” where it carries on its work crowdsourcing Maui news and traffic in real time. MAUIWatch, with nearly 26,000 Facebook followers, is one of the most-cited Maui-based news sources, utilized by national networks and local newsgathering organizations across the State.
Cooperating attorney Marcus Landsberg IV said: “Like many people who work by day and blog by night, Mr. Mamuad never uses County computers or time for his personal hobby, which is protected free speech. If Mr. Mamuad weren’t a County officer, the County wouldn’t be able to touch him at all – his speech is completely protected by the First Amendment. But because he also serves as a volunteer Liquor Commission Chairman, the County believes it has the right to control everything he does and everything he says in his free time. This is contrary to well- settled federal law – public employees don’t give up their free speech rights merely because they work for the government.”
Plaintiff Neldon Mamuad said: “I am a Part-Time County employee and volunteer Liquor Commissioner. Government officers & employees have First Amendment rights, and I just want the County to respect mine. If I was none of those, we would never be here.”
Cooperating attorney Phillip Lowenthal added: “Mr. Mamuad’s Facebook page is protected
speech. The County just doesn’t like the attention, and it is using its governmental position and
power as his employer to silence him. It’s flat-out wrong. The people of Maui and the State of
Hawaii deserve better.”
Cooperating attorney Samuel MacRoberts said: "The County is trying to muzzle our client to silence criticism – a clear violation of the Constitution which all County officials are sworn to protect. The County is saying that if any County employee criticizes anyone else in County government, the County will come after you. It's called a "chilling effect" on free speech. We're challenging this in court because our Constitution, specifically the First Amendment, is designed to prevent this kind of intimidation by government."
Daniel M. Gluck, Senior Staff Attorney for the ACLU of Hawaii Foundation concluded: “This is the third federal lawsuit charging clear and harmful First Amendment violations by Maui County in less than a year. This apparent lack of regard for free speech rights is regrettable, as the County continues to infringe people’s rights while ultimately placing the costs for these avoidable actions onto the taxpayer.” In February 2014, the ACLU and the law firm of Davis Levin Livingston filed a lawsuit over police threats toward Pastor Strat Goodhue and his wife for handing out religious flyers on a public sidewalk near the Maui Fair. In September 2013, the ACLU and the County settled a case (filed in June of that year) involving unconstitutional County rules that prohibited holding signs along public roadways. As part of the settlement, Maui County agreed to revise its rules and practices.
The American Civil Liberties Union (“ACLU”) is our nation’s guardian of liberty, working daily in courts, legislatures and communities to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties that the Constitution and laws of the United States guarantee everyone in this country.
Cooperating attorney Samuel MacRoberts said: "The County is trying to muzzle our client to silence criticism – a clear violation of the Constitution which all County officials are sworn to protect. The County is saying that if any County employee criticizes anyone else in County government, the County will come after you. It's called a "chilling effect" on free speech. We're challenging this in court because our Constitution, specifically the First Amendment, is designed to prevent this kind of intimidation by government."
Daniel M. Gluck, Senior Staff Attorney for the ACLU of Hawaii Foundation concluded: “This is the third federal lawsuit charging clear and harmful First Amendment violations by Maui County in less than a year. This apparent lack of regard for free speech rights is regrettable, as the County continues to infringe people’s rights while ultimately placing the costs for these avoidable actions onto the taxpayer.” In February 2014, the ACLU and the law firm of Davis Levin Livingston filed a lawsuit over police threats toward Pastor Strat Goodhue and his wife for handing out religious flyers on a public sidewalk near the Maui Fair. In September 2013, the ACLU and the County settled a case (filed in June of that year) involving unconstitutional County rules that prohibited holding signs along public roadways. As part of the settlement, Maui County agreed to revise its rules and practices.
The American Civil Liberties Union (“ACLU”) is our nation’s guardian of liberty, working daily in courts, legislatures and communities to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties that the Constitution and laws of the United States guarantee everyone in this country.
Governor releases $36.6 million for environmental, facility and infrastructure improvements
Gov. Neil Abercrombie today announced the release of more than $36.6 million for various capital improvement projects (CIP), administered by the Departments of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and Accounting and General Services (DAGS).
“These priority projects represent significant investments not only in our state facilities and natural assets, but our local economy as well,” Gov. Abercrombie said. “In addition to creating jobs and economic growth, these CIPs will enhance protection and preservation of Hawaii’s fragile environment and improve aging infrastructure for the people of Hawaii.”
Allotment of funds for the following projects, identified by state legislators, has been approved by the Governor:
DLNR
$7,500,000 – Lump Sum Improvements at State Parks, statewide – This project will include planning, design and construction for a wide range of repair and improvement projects, including those to parks, historical facilities and monuments on Oahu, Hawaii Island, Kauai, Maui and Molokai.
$600,000 – Aiea Bay Pumphouse Property Environmental Remediation, Oahu (for Department of Defense) – Environmental remediation and other work related to the site cleanup.
$500,000 – Mana Drag Strip, Kauai – This will complete the current construction phase to repair the facilities on the site and remove and resurface the pavement.
$250,000 – Geothermal Well Plugging and Abandonment, Hawaii Island – This project will seal geothermal wells under state jurisdiction and restore the well sites to preexisting conditions. The wells are located in the Wao Kele O Puna rainforest.
$150,000 – Royal Hawaiian Groin Replacement, Oahu – This project will construct a new groin next to the existing Royal Hawaiian groin. The new groin is a terminal structure that captures/traps sand and allows the central portion of the beach in Waikiki to remain stable. Private contribution funds for this project total $150,000.
DAGS
$27,695,000 – Kamamalu Building Renovation, Oahu – Construction funds to renovate the building for state agencies relocating from leased office spaces. The renovation (75,000 gross square feet/61,000 net square feet) will provide more efficient use of the building, instead of tearing it down and constructing a new one. Due to the parcel’s small size and prevailing zoning restrictions, new construction would yield only about a 14,900-square-foot facility.
USS Arizona Memorial commemorated on stamp
The U.S. Postal Service today honored the tranquil shrine that pays tribute to the 1,177 sailors aboard the USS Arizona who lost their lives Dec. 7, 1941, with the dedication of a Priority Mail Express $19.99 stamp.
"Today, nearly 100 years to the day that the Navy laid the keel to begin construction of the Arizona, we gather to pay tribute to its final resting spot," said U.S. Postal Service Information Technology Vice President John Edgar in dedicating the stamp. "Not everyone will have an opportunity to visit Hawaii and see this memorial in person. But with this stamp, they'll be able to see what it looks like and be reminded of what it stands for. "
The stamp artwork features an illustration of the white concrete memorial on the Hawaiian island of Oahu rising above the sunken ship in the shape of a bridge. Depicted under a sunny sky and bright clouds with an American flag fluttering overhead, the memorial is mirrored by its own reflection on the water below. Designed by art director Phil Jordan of Falls Church, VA, the stamp showcases the work of illustrator Dan Cosgrove of Chicago, IL.
The USS Arizona Memorial Priority Mail Express stamp is available in sheets of 10 and also may be purchased individually. Customers may purchase the stamps at usps.com/stamps, at 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724), at Post Offices nationwide or at ebay.com/stamps.
"Let this stamp serve as a small reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave sailors who gave their lives here," added Edgar. "Let this stamp achieve the same goal as the memorial it depicts — to always remember the Arizona."
Scheduled to join Edgar in dedicating the stamp were U.S. Sen. (ret.) Daniel K. Akaka; U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Richard Williams, USN; Hawaii State Rep. K. Mark Takai; World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument Superintendent Paul DePrey; and U.S. Postal Service Honolulu District Manager Greg Wolny.
"The USS Arizona Memorial stamp will help Americans remember the toll of war, the sacrifice of our service members and the end of conflict," said DePrey. "The memorial is an iconic structure symbolizing both loss and contemplation. By dedicating this stamp, we are continuing to bear witness to history."
Dec. 7, 1941: 'A Date Which Will Live in Infamy'
Nearly half the Americans killed aboard the Arizona died when a bomb striking an ammunitions store caused it to detonate. The Arizona's remains and those entombed in her now rest in Pearl Harbor. The Arizona memorial rises above the ship itself, surrounded by the rainbow-streaked oil that continues to leak from the ship's hull. Ultimately, the memorial marks not only the end of more than a thousand lives, but the entry of the United States into World War II.
Nearly half the Americans killed aboard the Arizona died when a bomb striking an ammunitions store caused it to detonate. The Arizona's remains and those entombed in her now rest in Pearl Harbor. The Arizona memorial rises above the ship itself, surrounded by the rainbow-streaked oil that continues to leak from the ship's hull. Ultimately, the memorial marks not only the end of more than a thousand lives, but the entry of the United States into World War II.
According to Daniel A. Martinez, chief historian at World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument at Pearl Harbor, tensions between the two nations were running high when, at 6 a.m. Sun., Dec. 7, six Japanese aircraft carriers launched the first wave of 183 planes. A total of 350 planes were used in the surprise attack on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Among their targets was the USS Arizona, a battleship anchored in Pearl Harbor. The ship was built at the New York Navy Yard in Brooklyn and commissioned in October 1916.
The Attack
At 7 a.m., two radar operators spotted a wave of incoming planes but were told not to worry about it. The officer on duty at the information center at Fort Shafter believed they were American planes scheduled to arrive at Hickam Field on Oahu. An hour later, as sailors on the Arizona prepared to raise the flag, a Japanese fighter flew low overhead and strafed the ship with gunfire. The attack had begun. As dive bombers, torpedo bombers, and fighters filled the sky, an armor-piercing bomb penetrated the Arizona's deck and detonated inside an ammunition storage area, causing hundreds of thousands of pounds of explosives to ignite at once. The ship collapsed on itself and began to sink. Of the nearly 1,500 men assigned to the Arizona, fewer than 350 survived — and only because some of the sailors were on shore at the time.
At 7 a.m., two radar operators spotted a wave of incoming planes but were told not to worry about it. The officer on duty at the information center at Fort Shafter believed they were American planes scheduled to arrive at Hickam Field on Oahu. An hour later, as sailors on the Arizona prepared to raise the flag, a Japanese fighter flew low overhead and strafed the ship with gunfire. The attack had begun. As dive bombers, torpedo bombers, and fighters filled the sky, an armor-piercing bomb penetrated the Arizona's deck and detonated inside an ammunition storage area, causing hundreds of thousands of pounds of explosives to ignite at once. The ship collapsed on itself and began to sink. Of the nearly 1,500 men assigned to the Arizona, fewer than 350 survived — and only because some of the sailors were on shore at the time.
The Arizona was still burning when President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed Congress the following day and asked for a declaration of war, saying, "Yesterday, December 7, 1941 — a date that will live in infamy — the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan." The nation's shock and grief were transformed into a commitment to fight the war.
The First Memorial
After World War II ended, the idea of creating a memorial to the Arizona gradually gained momentum. The first permanent memorial at Pearl Harbor was dedicated Dec. 7, 1955. A 10-foot high basalt stone placed on Ford Island by the Navy Club, it was erected near the submerged wreckage of the Arizona and honored all American servicemen killed Dec. 7, 1941. But some people, particularly in the Navy, wanted more. In a letter sent to the Secretary of the Navy, Charles Thomas pointed out, "Whether or not the Navy has done its best to preserve the dignity of the USS Arizona's remains, it is still blamed because this burial place for 1,102 men is a rusted mass of junk…an appropriate memorial should be constructed to honor the many valiant men who went down with her and now lie entombed within her hull."
After World War II ended, the idea of creating a memorial to the Arizona gradually gained momentum. The first permanent memorial at Pearl Harbor was dedicated Dec. 7, 1955. A 10-foot high basalt stone placed on Ford Island by the Navy Club, it was erected near the submerged wreckage of the Arizona and honored all American servicemen killed Dec. 7, 1941. But some people, particularly in the Navy, wanted more. In a letter sent to the Secretary of the Navy, Charles Thomas pointed out, "Whether or not the Navy has done its best to preserve the dignity of the USS Arizona's remains, it is still blamed because this burial place for 1,102 men is a rusted mass of junk…an appropriate memorial should be constructed to honor the many valiant men who went down with her and now lie entombed within her hull."
Fund Raising to Create Today's Memorial
Over the next three years, private individuals and the military pushed for a memorial. Organizers launched a national campaign to raise $500,000. In 1958, the Ralph Edwards program "This is Your Life" featured the Arizona's senior surviving officer, Rear Admiral Samuel Fuqua on national television. At the end of the program, Edwards asked viewers to send in contributions and eventually raised $95,000.
Over the next three years, private individuals and the military pushed for a memorial. Organizers launched a national campaign to raise $500,000. In 1958, the Ralph Edwards program "This is Your Life" featured the Arizona's senior surviving officer, Rear Admiral Samuel Fuqua on national television. At the end of the program, Edwards asked viewers to send in contributions and eventually raised $95,000.
Elvis Contributes to the Fund Raising
By 1961, the fund-raising campaign was beginning to lose steam. An unconventional rock-and-roll icon stepped in to help by giving a benefit concert at Pearl Harbor March 25, 1961. The star wore his famous gold lame jacket and performed to the screams and cries of several thousand fans. Elvis Presley raised more than $50,000. Later that year, Congress and the state of Hawaii appropriated the funds needed to finish building the memorial.
By 1961, the fund-raising campaign was beginning to lose steam. An unconventional rock-and-roll icon stepped in to help by giving a benefit concert at Pearl Harbor March 25, 1961. The star wore his famous gold lame jacket and performed to the screams and cries of several thousand fans. Elvis Presley raised more than $50,000. Later that year, Congress and the state of Hawaii appropriated the funds needed to finish building the memorial.
The Memorial's Design
The design and construction of the USS Arizona Memorial were well under way before the fundraising was completed. The Navy's original specifications called for a bridge-like structure that spanned the sunken battleship, and architect Alfred Preis was chosen to create the design.
The design and construction of the USS Arizona Memorial were well under way before the fundraising was completed. The Navy's original specifications called for a bridge-like structure that spanned the sunken battleship, and architect Alfred Preis was chosen to create the design.
According to Preis, the building's concave shape, which dips in the middle, symbolized the nation's initial defeat at Pearl Harbor and ultimate return to peace. Preis designed an open-assembly deck to create a serene and non-coercive atmosphere for contemplation. A separate room was set aside to enshrine the names of the Arizona's dead. There, visitors may witness and reflect upon a giant wall of marble bearing the names of the 1,177 men who died aboard the Arizona. The shrine room also contains the open windows that Preis designed depicting the Tree of Life, which has come to be known as a symbol of peace and harmony.
The USS Arizona Memorial was dedicated Memorial Day, 1962. In 1980, the National Park Service took over memorial operations. A presidential proclamation in 2008 declared the site part of the new World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument. A new visitor center was built in 2010 to provide a museum, theater facilities and visitor services. More than 1.5 million people visit the memorial annually.
Ordering First-Day-of-Issue Postmarks
Customers have 60 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at local Post Offices, at usps.com/stamps or by calling 800-STAMP-24. They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes to themselves or others and place them in larger envelopes addressed to:
Customers have 60 days to obtain the first-day-of-issue postmark by mail. They may purchase new stamps at local Post Offices, at usps.com/stamps or by calling 800-STAMP-24. They should affix the stamps to envelopes of their choice, address the envelopes to themselves or others and place them in larger envelopes addressed to:
USS Arizona Memorial Cancellations
Marketing Department
3600 Aolele Street
Honolulu, HI 96820-9661
Marketing Department
3600 Aolele Street
Honolulu, HI 96820-9661
After applying the first-day-of-issue postmark, the Postal Service will return the envelopes through the mail. There is no charge for the postmark up to a quantity of 50. For more than 50, there is a 5-cent charge per postmark. All orders must be postmarked by May 13, 2014.
Outrigger announces changes in revenue management
Outrigger Enterprises Group is pleased to announce two changes to its revenue management team.
Beverly Fidel has been named director of revenue management for the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach, where she is responsible for the strategic rate planning and coordination between the hotel and various departments within Outrigger, as well as to the company’s external business partners.
Fidel began her Outrigger career in 1990 and worked her way up to hotel manager. She found her niche in the analytic discipline of revenue management and became manager and then director for the OHANA brand and most recently, director for Outrigger’s Waikiki beachfront properties.
Fidel is a member of the Advisory Council for the U.S. Department of Education’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program and is active with Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA).
Czarina Lam joins Outrigger as director of revenue management for the OHANA brand as of March 16, 2014. Properties under Lam’s watchful eye are the OHANA Waikiki East, OHANA Waikiki West and the OHANA Waikiki Malia. Lam will oversee all sources of room revenue reservations and revenue operations while working closely with sales and marketing.
Before joining Outrigger, Lam was director of revenue management for the Ala Moana Hotel since 2011 having been promoted from revenue and reservations manager. Previous experience was with Aston Waikiki Beach Tower, the Renaissance Ilikai Waikiki Hotel and the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa.
Lam is a graduate of the University of Hawaii School of Travel Industry Management.
Most World Records ever attempted in 90 minutes
Effort to Break Three Current Guinness World Records Will Contribute
2,500 Towels to Military & Veterans’ Families
Who: La Quinta Inns & Suites – Wayne Goldberg (President & CEO) Standard Textile – Greg Eubanks (Group VP)
Fisher House – Tripler AMC, Honolulu
When: Friday, March 14, 2014 @ 2:30 pm
Where: Waikoloa Bowl at Queens' Gardens (parking also available at Queen’s Marketplace)
69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr. ~ Waikoloa Village, HI 96738
What: La Quinta Inns & Suites, the nationwide hotel brand, will be attempting not one but three Guinness World Records and giving back to the community. More than 1,100 people will participate to break the following Guinness World Records:
Why: Following the event, La Quinta will donate more than 2,500 towels used during the event to Fisher House – Tripler AMC in Honolulu. Fisher House Foundation is best known for a network of comfort homes where military and veterans’ families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment.
These homes are located at major military and VA medical centers nationwide, close to the medical center or hospital they serve.
Who: La Quinta Inns & Suites – Wayne Goldberg (President & CEO) Standard Textile – Greg Eubanks (Group VP)
Fisher House – Tripler AMC, Honolulu
When: Friday, March 14, 2014 @ 2:30 pm
Where: Waikoloa Bowl at Queens' Gardens (parking also available at Queen’s Marketplace)
69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr. ~ Waikoloa Village, HI 96738
What: La Quinta Inns & Suites, the nationwide hotel brand, will be attempting not one but three Guinness World Records and giving back to the community. More than 1,100 people will participate to break the following Guinness World Records:
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The Longest Human Towel Chain
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The Longest High-Five Chain
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The Largest Towel Mosaic
If all three records are attained, it will be the most records attempted in 1 1⁄2 hours.
Why: Following the event, La Quinta will donate more than 2,500 towels used during the event to Fisher House – Tripler AMC in Honolulu. Fisher House Foundation is best known for a network of comfort homes where military and veterans’ families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment.
These homes are located at major military and VA medical centers nationwide, close to the medical center or hospital they serve.
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Hawaiian Airlines expands Bay Area network
Hawaiian Airlines today announced that it will reinstate its daily San Jose service beginning May 16, 2014. In addition, the airline will also be up-gauging the aircraft on its Oakland route to the 294-seat Airbus A330-200, adding a total of 60 more seats each day, beginning June 18, 2014.
"We are excited to bring back our daily non-stop service between San Jose and Honolulu, giving our Northern California travelers more access to the Hawaiian Islands," said Mark Dunkerley, Hawaiian Airlines president and CEO. "The demand for travel from the Bay Area has been strong, so additionally, we are pleased to offer more capacity and all of the enhanced amenities that our A330 aircraft has to offer for our Oakland travelers."
Hawaiian Airlines currently offers daily non-stop service between Oakland and both Honolulu and Kahului, Maui. The airline previously announced that new seasonal summer service between Oakland and both Lihu'e, Kaua'i and Kona, Hawai'i Island will commence this June, connecting all four main Hawaiian Islands to Northern California.
Daily San Jose-Honolulu Schedule
Daily non-stop service between San Jose and Honolulu will be operated on Hawaiian Airlines' wide-body, twin-aisle Boeing 767-300ER aircraft with the following schedule:
Flight Route Departs Arrives Aircraft Start Date
HA 44 HNL-SJC 2:20 p.m. 10:30 p.m. Boeing 767-300ER May 16, 2014
HA 43 SJC-HNL 10:10 a.m. 12:35 p.m. Boeing 767-300ER May 17, 2014
Hawaiian Airlines' B767 aircraft seats 264 passengers in a two-class cabin, with 18 in Business Class and 246 in the Main Cabin. Amenities include personal electronic tablets available for purchase.
Daily Oakland-Honolulu Schedule
Daily service between Oakland and Honolulu will continue with slightly adjusted times beginning June 18, 2014:
Flight Route Departs Arrives Aircraft Start Date
HA 48 HNL-OAK 2:10 p.m. 10:25 p.m. Airbus 330-200 June 18, 2014
HA 47 OAK-HNL 10:00 a.m. 12:20 p.m. Airbus 330-200 June 19, 2014
"We are excited to bring back our daily non-stop service between San Jose and Honolulu, giving our Northern California travelers more access to the Hawaiian Islands," said Mark Dunkerley, Hawaiian Airlines president and CEO. "The demand for travel from the Bay Area has been strong, so additionally, we are pleased to offer more capacity and all of the enhanced amenities that our A330 aircraft has to offer for our Oakland travelers."
Hawaiian Airlines currently offers daily non-stop service between Oakland and both Honolulu and Kahului, Maui. The airline previously announced that new seasonal summer service between Oakland and both Lihu'e, Kaua'i and Kona, Hawai'i Island will commence this June, connecting all four main Hawaiian Islands to Northern California.
Daily San Jose-Honolulu Schedule
Daily non-stop service between San Jose and Honolulu will be operated on Hawaiian Airlines' wide-body, twin-aisle Boeing 767-300ER aircraft with the following schedule:
Flight Route Departs Arrives Aircraft Start Date
HA 44 HNL-SJC 2:20 p.m. 10:30 p.m. Boeing 767-300ER May 16, 2014
HA 43 SJC-HNL 10:10 a.m. 12:35 p.m. Boeing 767-300ER May 17, 2014
Hawaiian Airlines' B767 aircraft seats 264 passengers in a two-class cabin, with 18 in Business Class and 246 in the Main Cabin. Amenities include personal electronic tablets available for purchase.
Daily Oakland-Honolulu Schedule
Daily service between Oakland and Honolulu will continue with slightly adjusted times beginning June 18, 2014:
Flight Route Departs Arrives Aircraft Start Date
HA 48 HNL-OAK 2:10 p.m. 10:25 p.m. Airbus 330-200 June 18, 2014
HA 47 OAK-HNL 10:00 a.m. 12:20 p.m. Airbus 330-200 June 19, 2014
Monday, March 3, 2014
Governor releases $96.6 million for Hawaii airports
HONOLULU – Gov. Neil Abercrombie today announced the release of more than $96.6 million for the construction of capital improvement projects (CIP) at state airports that will further stimulate Hawaii’s growing economy and job environment.
“Our airports are the first impression of Hawaii for many of our visitors and these improvements, in conjunction with our Hawaii Airports Modernization Program, will help turn them into safer, world-class facilities,” Gov. Abercrombie said. “With the recent stabilization of our visitor industry, we will need projects like these to continue to expand our economy through construction.”
Allotment of funds for the following projects, identified by state legislators, has been approved by the Governor:
$50,000,000 – Taxiway Z Structural Improvements, Honolulu International Airport, Oahu – Pavement reconstruction of Taxiway Z. Taxiway Z will be paved with new asphalt and concrete that will have more structural integrity. Also, pavement markings will be replaced to ensure compliance with all current Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) operational and safety standards.
$35,740,000 – New Diamond Head Commuter Terminal, Honolulu International Airport, Oahu –Construction for a new Commuter Terminal adjacent to Gate 6 at the end of the Diamond Head Concourse.
$4,789,771 – Restroom Renovation (Phase 2), Kahului Airport, Maui – Construction for the renovation of public restrooms at hold rooms, ticket lobby and commuter terminal.
$3,680,000 – Terminal Fire Protection System Replacement, Kahului Airport, Maui – Construction to replace the existing fire sprinkler lines and risers throughout the facility.
$2,000,000 – Replacement and/or Renovation of Parking Structure Pedestrian Bridges, Honolulu International Airport, Oahu – Design to replace or rehabilitate three pedestrian bridges that connect the Overseas Terminal to the Overseas Terminal Parking Garage.
$410,000 – Runway Safety Area Improvements, Lihue Airport, Kauai – Plans for an environmental assessment related to reconfiguring Runway 3-21 to comply with FAA Runway Safety Area standards.
Open statement and thank you from Naturopathic Doctors Dr. Diana Joy Ostroff
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Local dog trainers stand ready to combat little fire ants & coqui frogs
Eradication Funding Bill Advancing In Hawai`i State Legislature
It’s been15 years since the first Little Fire Ant first appeared on Hawaii Island and the stinging ant has since spread to Maui, Oahu and Kauai. Beyond painful, the ant’s venom can cause death and blindness to humans and animals — including dogs. Enter Oahu based Ellen Watson and her Common Scents Canine Hawai`i (CSCH).
Watson is excited that Senate Bill 2920, “Little Fire Ants; Pilot Project; Appropriation” is now moving in the Hawai`i State Legislature. The legislation “Establishes and appropriates an unspecified amount to the county of Hawaii for a Little Fire Ant pilot project to research solutions for addressing the Little Fire Ant threat in Hawaii.”
Watson said, “In addition to combating Little Fire Ants, our dogs have the ability to scent detect and locate the noisy Coqui frogs disturbing the local populace and their eggs.” Senate Bill 2920 was reported from the Senate Way & Means Committee on 02/28/14 with recommendation of passage on Third Reading.
ABOUT ELLEN WATSON AND HAWAII’S SCENT DETECTION DOGS
Watson established the Common Scents Canine Training Center (CSCTC) in her home state of Michigan in 1974. Her training academy offered basic dog obedience training classes ranging from puppy socialization, beginners through advanced dog obedience training classes. Later, she worked with dog owners who intended to compete in AKC Obedience and Tracking trials. Competitive obedience training courses began with Novice Classes — and ended with Utility Dog including Tracking Dog Training for competition.
Watson trained under the lauded international dog trainer, the late Glen R. Johnson of Canada. Johnson was the world renown expert in canine scent detection. Johnson, author of Tracking Dog: Theory & Methods spent a lifetime proving the miraculous natural ability of dog’s noses and teaching others how to make it work for them. Watson worked with with Johnson for a decade while developing her own training methodologies and she created a team of highly-trained scent detection dogs. Along the way, Watson earned AKC, TDX, and SchH. III titles.
Ellen Watson relocated to Hawaii in 1994 where she operates Common Scents Canine Hawaii. Watson notes, “We have a slate of trained scent detection dogs that can find Little Fire Ants, Coqui Frog Eggs, Coqui Frogs, and the Coconut R. Beetle, among other destructive invasive species. We’re right here with trained dogs and skilled handlers. We are a local company caring for our Aina by seeking to eradicate invasive species. And, we are ready to move forward on these projects right now.”
Outrigger Hotels and Resorts hits the ground running as Official Hotel Sponsor of the Hapalua
Participants and spectators of the April 13 half marathon can take advantage of special rates at Outrigger and OHANA Hotels in Waikiki
WAIKIKI, HONOLULU, HAWAII – Outrigger Hotels and Resorts, a long-standing sponsor of local sporting events, has signed on as the official hotel sponsor of the 2014 Hapalua, Hawaii’s Half Marathon. Runners will take their marks on April 13 for the 13.1-mile race that will take runners through Waikiki to downtown Honolulu and back, finishing with a loop around stunning Diamond Head toward Kapiolani Park, the traditional finish line for the Honolulu Marathon.
As the official hotel sponsor, Outrigger is offering participants and spectators special rates starting at just $105 per night at participating Outrigger and OHANA hotels in Waikiki, with each hotel conveniently located within walking distance to the race’s start and finish lines. Participating properties include Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach, Outrigger Reef on the Beach, OHANA Waikiki East, OHANA Waikiki Malia and OHANA Waikiki West. For reservations, log on to www.outrigger.com/actionsports.
As part of this year’s Hapalua, runners have the option to join a fundraising team and raise money for a cause. Participants who register as part of a fundraising team will receive a code for a discounted entry fee of only $20 (a savings of $95) for their fundraising efforts. Participants using the code can run the 13.1 miles individually for only $20 (a savings of $97) or they can run on a relay team of 4-7 people for only $40.
For a full list of charitable teams, including Team Outrigger running in support of the Visitor Industry Charity Walk, click www.crowdrise.com/TheHapalua2014.
“The Hapalua is the perfect opportunity for Outrigger to continue our commitment to local sporting events and encourage travelers to visit our islands to join the competition,” said Bitsy Kelley, vice president of corporate communications for Outrigger Enterprises Group. “We’re proud to be the official hotel sponsor of The Hapalua and a part of an event that provides participants not only the opportunity to compete but to raise funds and awareness for wonderful causes.”
For more information on The Hapalua, Hawaii’s Half Marathon, or to book your stay for the big day, click www.outrigger.com/outrigger-sports/hapalua.
Saturday, March 1, 2014
Hawaii tourist expenditures drop
“Fluctuating currency exchange rates, growing competition and the increasing cost of a Hawaiian vacation were all factors contributing to the losses in visitor spending. We anticipate seeing this trend continue into the first and second quarters of 2014,” said Mike McCartney, President and CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA).
Total expenditures by visitors who came to Hawaii in January 2014 dropped 4.7 percent (or $68 million) from January 2013, to $1.37 billion, according to preliminary statistics released today by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. This was the fifth consecutive month of a decline in visitor expenditures compared to the previous year. Total arrivals for January 2014 was 682,634 visitors, virtually unchanged from a year ago. However, the average daily visitor spending was lower compared to January 2013 (-5.2% to $191 per person).
Among visitors who came by air this January, growth in international visitors compensated for losses in U.S. arrivals. U.S. West visitor expenditures fell 6.1 percent to $393.8 million in January 2014, as a result of fewer arrivals (-4.6% to 231,871 visitors) and lower daily visitor spending (-2.5% to $154 per person). U.S. West visitor expenditures and arrivals have been declining since August 2013.
Decreases in U.S. East arrivals (-4.1% to 146,190 visitors) and daily spending (-0.9% to $204 per person) led to a 3.1 percent drop in U.S. East visitor expenditures to $381.8 million. This was the fourth straight month of year-over-year losses in U.S. East visitor expenditures and arrivals.
Arrivals from Japan rose 7 percent to 126,330 visitors in January 2014. However, much lower daily spending (-11.9% to $295 per person) resulted in a 7.3 percent decline in Japanese visitor expenditures to $212 million.
Despite growth in Canadian arrivals (+4.2% to 70,167 visitors), lower daily spending (-14.9% to $147 per person) caused an 8.7 percent drop in Canadian visitor expenditures to $153.6 million in January 2014.
Arrivals from All Other markets were up 9 percent to 90,396 visitors, with significantly more visitors from Other Asia (+29.3%) and Oceania (+20%). Combined expenditures from All Other visitors of $219 million was about the same as January 2013.
Arrivals by cruise ships decreased 3.1 percent to 17,680 visitors in January 2014.
Among the islands, visitor expenditures declined on Oahu (-12.4% to $587.4 million) and Maui (-6.3% to $366.8 million) but increased on Hawaii Island (+8.1% to $234.9 million) and Kauai (+17.2% to $160 million) compared to January 2013.
There were 946,549 total air seats to Hawai'i in January 2014, up 3.4 percent from last January. Scheduled seats from Other Asia (+21.5%) and Oceania (+20.1%) rose significantly and scheduled seats from Japan (+10.2%) and Canada (+9.1%) also increased. Growth in scheduled seats from U.S. West (-0.7%) and U.S. East (+0.6%) was flat compared to January 2013.
“This year will be challenging for our tourism economy with increased global competition and the volatility of the world economy. The HTA and our marketing partners continue to monitor global economic conditions and travel trends to adjust marketing strategies and implement programs that will keep the Hawaiians Islands top-of-mind as a visitor destination. We cannot rest on our past success and must continue to work hard to sustain the recent growth we have experienced and maintain a strong tourism economy,” McCartney concluded.
President Obama reappoints Gov. Abercrombie to Council of Governors
US President Barack Obama has reappointed Gov. Neil Abercrombie to the Council of Governors, the White House announced this week. The council consists of 10 governors appointed by the President to focus on matters of national security, homeland defense, synchronization and integration of state and military activities in the United States and matters of mutual interest pertaining to the National Guard.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to continue serving on the Council of Governors, which gives Hawaii a strong voice, together with our congressional delegation, in future decisions regarding the protection of our state and nation,” said Gov. Neil Abercrombie. “During a productive and successful trip this month to the National Governors Association (NGA) Winter Meeting in Washington, D.C., I attended a Council of Governors meeting that addressed the Pentagon’s recently proposed cuts to the Army and Air National Guard. During the meeting, I was able to help formulate and sign a bipartisan letter from 50 governors, urging further discussion on budget and policy issues involving the National Guard.”
While in Washington, the Governor also participated in NGA sessions focusing on education, job training, homeland security and public safety, as well as attended four meetings/events at the White House.
The Council of Governors was established by Section 1822 of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 and implemented by Presidential Executive Order 13528. In addition to the 10 council members (five from each political party), charter federal participants include the secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security, presidential homeland security and counterterrorism advisors, the commander of U.S. Northern Command, the commandant of the Coast Guard and the chief of the National Guard Bureau.
Presentation by "Blackfish" movie producer and researchers on March 13 and 14
A dynamic group of whale researchers from Hawaii, Ecuador and Chile, along with the Producer of the documentary "Blackfish" and the Executive Director of Orca Network, will be offering free presentations about their work as part of "Evenings with the Experts" to be held on Thursday, March 13 and Friday, March 14.
"Evenings with the Experts" will also include a free screening of "Blackfish."
The two nights of free presentations and film will take place from 6:00 to 8:00 pm each evening at the Haleakala Ballroom at the Westin Maui Resort and Spa in Ka'anapali. Admission is free. Because seating is limited, complimentary advance reservations for seats are available and are recommended. To arrange your free seat, please call Pacific Whale Foundation at (808) 249-8811 ext. 1.
"Over two nights, we'll be offering presentations about orca whales, blue whales and humpback whales from a variety of expert perspectives and locations," says Greg Kaufman, Founder and Executive Director of Pacific Whale Foundation. "We're pleased to offer this excellent program to the public through this free event."
Thursday, March 13: Blackfish and Lolita
On Thursday, March 13, the first night of "Evenings with the Experts," Manny Oteyza, Producer of Blackfish, will present a free screening of this 90-minute documentary and a talk about creating the film.
The movie documents the circumstances leading to the 2010 death of Dawn Brancheau, a renowned SeaWorld trainer who was killed by Tilikum, a 12,000-pound orca. This film provides a compelling look at the cruelty of keeping whales and dolphins in captivity, and has been instrumental in educating millions of people worldwide about the dark side of using these majestic marine mammals for human entertainment.
The evening will also include a presentation by Howard Garrett, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Orca Network and an activist in the "Free Lolita" campaign.
Lolita appears in the movie "Blackfish" as a young calf, when she was captured from the wild where she lived with the the Southern Resident killer whale population. She was sold to the Miami Seaquarium and named "Lolita." She remains in captivity there 40 years later in a 35' x 80' x 20' concrete tank.
Many people believe that the time has come to return her to her family pod. Howard Garrett and the Orca Network, have helped conduct the "Free Lolita" campaign to raise public awareness about returning this whale to the wild.
Friday, March 14: Researchers Making a Difference
On Friday, March 14, the focus will be on "Researchers Making a Difference," spotlighting three dynamic female scientists from Hawaii, Chile and Ecuador who are studying whales in the wild through research projects funded by Pacific Whale Foundation and using the findings to help protect these animals and their habitats.
Discover the latest developments about whales during their riveting presentations of photos, films, recordings and first person accounts of working among whales in the wild.
Elsa Cabrera will present her work studying and protecting blue whales in Chile. Blue whales, the world's largest marine mammals, are found off the coast of Chile from January through May. However, much about these endangered and rare animals remains a mystery, including where they breed. To help protect these whales, Elsa has been a leader in the fight to stop the construction of thousands of large wind turbines along the shoreline at Mar Brava Beach in Patagonia.
Dr. Cristina Castro will discuss her research of humpback whales and other marine mammals off the coast of Ecuador and her outreach efforts which helped change the poor fishing village of Puerto Lopez into a thriving tourist destination.
Dr. Emmanuelle Martinez will describe Pacific Whale Foundation's studies of humpback whales off Maui, as part of a larger goal of preventing vessel-whale collisions.
"We are bringing Manny Oteyza, Howard Garrett and our research scientists from South America to Maui at this amazing time of year, when our visitors and Maui residents are enjoying the presence of the majestic humpback whales off our coasts," says Kaufman. "The free presentations and film showing that are part of 'Evenings with the Experts' are certain to inspire and interest anyone who loves whales."
"We especially hope that our presentation by three female scientists will help to inspire girls around the world to become involved in marine biology and whale research," notes Kaufman.
Special Whalewatches with the Presenters
In addition to the free presentations, Pacific Whale Foundation is offering two special whalewatch cruises that will feature special guest narration by the speakers from "Evenings with the Experts." The special two-hour whalewatch cruises will depart from Lahaina Harbor on Friday, March 14 and Saturday, March 14. Both cruises depart at 11:30 am.
On Friday, March 14, the special guest speakers on the whalewatch will be Blackfish Producer Manny Oteyza and Orca Network's Howard Garrett. They will be accompanied on the microphone by Greg Kaufman, who will add his decades of whale research experience to the narration about the whales that are encountered.
On Saturday, March 15, the guest speakers on the whalewatch will blue whale researcher Elsa Cabrera from Chile; humpback whale researcher Dr. Cristina Castro from Ecuador and humpback whale researcher Dr. Emmanuelle Martinez from Maui. Greg Kaufman will also help narrate this cruise.
The ticket prices for these whalewatches are $49.95 for adults and $34.95 for children ages 6 to 12. Whale sightings are guaranteed on each of these cruises. In the very unlikely event that you do not see whales, you'll receive a free "Just a Fluke" ticket to go whalewatching again with Pacific Whale Foundation.
For reservations for the cruises, please call Pacific Whale Foundation at (808) 249-8811 ext. 1 between 6 am and 9 pm daily.
The "Evenings with the Experts" event is part of the Maui Whale Festival, a series of events offered from February through March to celebrate the presence of the humpback whales in Hawaii. To learn more about the festival, please visit www.mauiwhalefestival.org.
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