The
The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
High Street Journal An Official Publication of the County of Maui JANUARY 2017
SUGAR OPERATORS SUPPORT TASKFORCE RELEASES YEAR-END REPORT MAUI MPO WELCOMES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LAUREN ARMSTRONG
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
The
CONTENTS
High Street
Journal
Message from the Mayor.................................................................................... 3 M.D. Minute............................................................................................................. 4 Happenings at the County ............................................................................... 5
PUBLISHER / EDITOR Lynn Araki-Regan EDITORIAL COORDINATORS Lois Whitney Tiffany Iida Herman Andaya, Jr. Rod Antone PHOTO COORDINATOR Ryan Piros CONTRIBUTORS Dana Acosta Mayor Alan Arakawa Karen Arakawa Lauren Armstrong John Buck Donna Evans Jan Inouye-Ogata Sue Kiang Michelle Makii Mike Molina Linn Nishikawa Geri Onaga Karin Phaneuf Keith Regan Wendy Stebbins Ronald Steben Hana Steel Jacky Takakura John Tam Christie Trenholme Henry Voris Sharon Zalsos
Sugar Operators Support Taskforce releases year-end report........... 7 County asks for assistance to identify Maui Bus shooters.................... 8 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for Maui County sets out roadmap to strengthen, diversify economy 9 Nominations sought for 2017 Annual Mayor’s Small Business Awards ..................................................................................................................... 10 Maui County Business Resource Center continues classes in 2017 11 DWS informs public of continued use of new water source ............. 12 Nrew year, new you, new volunteer opportunities ............................... 13 Kulia i ka nu`u ........................................................................................................ 14 Maui Metropolitan Planning Organization welcomes Executive Director Lauren Armstrong ............................................................................. 15 Explore life at 55! .................................................................................................. 16 Road to 100 Pounds ........................................................................................... 17 Kupaianaha (“Blessings of Life”)..................................................................... 19 POLL: What is/are your New Year’s resolution(s) for2017?.................. 20 Photo Gallery ......................................................................................................... 20
Cover Photo: Ryan Piros
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR Aloha and Happy New Year! I don’t know about you, but I noticed a huge increase in illegal aerial fireworks, as well as homemade fireworks “bombs” this year. Even with the rain, people still managed to find a way to blow things up on New Year’s Eve. I enjoy fireworks as much as the next person, but people need to please leave these aerials to the experts. From what I understand, at least one person on Maui had an aerial blow up in his face and had to be transported to the hospital. Apparently, he believed the device was a dud and it fired while he was inspecting it. This could have been a fatal mistake. On Oahu, a woman in Kapolei died because of an explosion from an illegal aerial. I was hoping it would be a safer and less chaotic night because of the rain but apparently not. Please note that even if you get your hands on some illegal aerials the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warns that “professional display fireworks should never be handled by consumers, due to the risk of serious injury and death.” There are plenty of legal fireworks for you and your family to purchase and light on New Year’s Eve. I’m hoping the message gets out about the dangers of fireworks between now and July 4th so we don’t have more injuries. Also, illegal fireworks are illegal. Remember that as well as the following fireworks safety tips: - have a bucket of water nearby - set off fireworks outdoors in clear area away from flammable materials - don’t try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks - make sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks - never light fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container - store fireworks in a cool, dry place - do not experiment with homemade fireworks Please stay safe out there. Mahalo!
Mayor Alan Arakawa
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
M.D. Minute
A Message from Managing Director Keith Regan “It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi “Only about 20 percent of how long the average person lives is determined by genes.” ~ The Danish Twin Study With the arrival of 2017, many of us are evaluating our health, weight and lifestyle to identify what kinds of changes we want – or need – to make in the new year and beyond. Of the many choices we make each day that affect our health, there are a few small changes we can make that could potentially have a significant impact on our overall health. Sitting jobs can take a toll on our bodies over time, so switching to a standing desk can make an immediate difference in the way you carry out your work. While you might feel tired during the transition, I can say from experience (having made the switch recently myself) that you will likely experience a number of physical improvements. The new standing desks can be raised and lowered as needed to accommodate sit-down meetings or sitting breaks, and don’t take up much more room than a traditional desk. Healthy lunch and snack break choices can also add up over time, with the addition of fresh or frozen veggies, fruits and whole-grain products that are minimally processed. Again, it takes time to get used to new tastes and textures, but you’d be surprised at how easily we can adapt to better choices when we see even initial results. There are many health-related programs out there, such as Kaiser’s health tips, and there is one that I’d also like to draw your attention to. The Blue Zones lifestyle is an inspiring and exciting approach to improving our health – and extending our longevity. Blue Zones researchers worked with demographers to identify pockets in the world where people routinely live to be 100+ years. Their findings are truly fascinating, and shed light on the very simple things these folks do every day that makes a difference in their quality and length of life. To explore what you can do to live a longer, healthier life, visit www.bluezones.com/. Wishing you good health and happiness in the new year, Keith Regan Managing Director
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
Happenings at
THE COUNTY
MAUI COUNTY LAUNCHES STORM WATER WEBPAGE The County of Maui website has a new page devoted to storm water, including the County’s stormwater management plan for the Kahului-Paia Urbanized Area, a form to report environmental concerns and strategies to help protect storm water and receiving waters from pollutants. The Storm Water Management Program webpage, available at www.mauicounty. gov/stormwater, provides information on the County’s Storm Water Management Program activities, as well as information on how community members can protect storm water and minimize pollutants in surface water resources. The webpage provides an additional reporting mechanism for environmental concerns related to storm water or the County’s storm drainage system. The County’s goal is to work with community individuals, businesses, large landowners, and State and Federal agencies to foster joint responsibility and positive action to protect Maui’s precious
surface water resources. “The County is committed to protecting water quality and to increasing public awareness about how their actions can impact storm water quality,” said Department of Public Works Director David Goode. “Many thanks to our staff across all departments for their contribution to the County’s Storm Water Program.” SOURCE WATER PROTECTION VIDEO CONTEST The Department of Water Supply is currently holding a Source Water Protection Video Contest. This contest is open to all Maui County public, private and home-schooled high school students from grades 9 to 12. Classroom teachers are invited to encourage their students to participate. Video entries must be 1.5 to 3 minutes long and must highlight source water protection efforts of an existing locally-based company or organization. Video entries must be submitted by student groups of 3 to 4 high school students.
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
The purpose of this contest is to provide our County’s youth with an opportunity to learn about source water protection and to utilize their creative talents to produce a video showcasing the importance of protecting our valuable ground and surface water sources. The theme for the video contest is “Keep Our Water Clean and Pure”. By protecting our source water, we reduce the risk of exposing the public to contaminated water, minimize potentially negative environmental impacts on our natural resources, and reduce water treatment costs. Every student group who creates and submits an entry will receive a Certificate of Participation. Winners will receive an electronic device as a prize, will be recognized by taking a photo with the Mayor or his representative, and will be featured on the Department of Water Supply’s website. Entry form and contest rules are available online at www.mauiwater.org and at the Department of Water Supply, Water Resources and Planning Division, 2200 Main Street, One Main Plaza, Suite 102 in Wailuku. Entries must be received by Friday, March 10, 2017. For inquiries, call Lori Delbello in the Water Resources and Planning Division, at 463-3110. 18TH ANNUAL MAUI CHINESE NEW YEAR FESTIVAL TO BE HELD JANUARY 28 The Eighteenth Annual Maui Chinese New Year’s Festival, sponsored in part by the County of Maui, will be held on Saturday, January 28, 2017, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the Maui Mall in Kahului. There will be Chinese food booths, Chinese arts and crafts, local produce, calligraphy, and leather brush artistry.
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Mayor Alan Arakawa will welcome the New Year at 10:00 a.m. Maui Chinese Martial Arts Academy Lion Dancers and firecracker blessings will follow
immediately thereafter, and be repeated at approximately 2:00 p.m., weather permitting. Event festivities include a Keiki Chinese Costume Contest with prizes, Tai-Chi and Kung-Fu demonstrations, a Chinese cooking contest, and Chinese dancers. There will also be an antique and historical display, Good Luck photos by Irvin, balloon fun and crafts for the kids.
The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
Sugar Operators Support Taskforce releases year-end report The Sugar Operators Support Taskforce (SOST) was created last January by the Mayor’s Office after Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar announced it would be shutting down sugar operations on Maui by December 2016. The sole purpose of the taskforce was to help the 675 workers who were laid off last year. The SOST year-end report shows that the taskforce was able to help the displaced workers in a number of different ways: (1) through government grants and resources (2) employment, jobs and job fairs, (3) by providing health and human services, (4) by becoming a clearinghouse of information for workers and (5) by identifying and developing education and training programs to help secure new types of employment. “The key to the taskforce’s success was understanding that there was no one size fits all solution to this situation,” said Managing Director Keith Regan, SOST Chair. “Some needed jobs, others opted for training and education and still others needed rental assistance or other social services during their transition time.We tried to assist as best as we could and I believe we made a difference. Much thanks goes out to everyone who worked together to assist our plantation workers; HC&S, county, state and federal officials, unions, nonprofits, community business groups and even health care providers all pitched in to help in some way. Mahalo to everyone who was involved.” SOST is made up of 56 members from 28 different organizations including: Alexander & Baldwin, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard’s office, Maui County, the State Department of Agriculture, the State Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, Feed My Sheep, Governor David Ige’s
office, the Hawaii Construction Alliance, Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar, Hawaii Medical Service Association, ILWU Local 142, Maui Chamber of Commerce, Maui Economic Development Board, Maui Economic Opportunity, Maui Food Bank, Maui Hotel & Lodging Association, Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce, Maui United Way, Senator Mazie Hirono’s office, Senator Brian Schatz’s office, Speaker of the House Joe Souki’s office, Representative Justin Woodson’s office, State Senator Roz Baker’s office, the University of Hawaii Maui College and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency. The year-end report has the taskforce’s latest numbers through December 1, 2016. According to SOST: - 124 sugar workers found other employment - 45 sugar workers retired - 15 workers are in training programs or attending school - 7 workers have relocated outside of Maui - 77 workers are still searching for new employment The remaining 346 workers were let go after December 1, 2016 and so those numbers will be added to the report at a later date. Once the full report becomes available it can be downloaded by clicking this link: http://www.mauicounty.gov/ DocumentCenter/View/106823. Or go to www. mauicounty.gov/mayor and click on the “Sugar Operators Support Taskforce” tab on the left side of the page.
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
County asks for assistance to identify Maui Bus shooters Maui County is asking for the public’s assistance identifying the individual or individuals involved in shooting at Maui Bus windows with what is believed to be a BB or pellet gun, four times last month. All of the incidents are believed to have taken place while the bus was traveling along the Wailuku Loop route in December 2016. In three of the incidents, bus personnel did not discover the bullet holes and cracked windows until after the bus returned to the Roberts Tours and Transportation headquarters to be washed and serviced for the night. Damages were located on the driver’s side of all four buses involved and a Maui Police Deparment report was made for each shooting incident. The latest incident took place on December 30,
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2016, at around 5:50 p.m., as the Maui Bus was making the right turn from Kamole Street onto Kehalani Makai Parkway. During that incident a bus passenger heard the impact from the shot, saw the cracked window and informed the bus driver as soon as it happened. “We are very fortunate that our passengers were not injured by the shots fired,” said Maui County Transportation Director Don Mederios. “Not to mention the cost to the taxpayer to replace these windows. I don’t know if someone thinks this is a game or if they are actually trying to do someone bodily harm but this needs to stop immediately.” If anyone has any information on this case please call the Maui police non-emergency line at 2446400.
The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for Maui County sets out roadmap to strengthen, diversify economy The County of Maui Mayor’s Office of Economic Development (OED), in partnership with Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB), has officially released the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), a report that reviews the state of the County’s economy and sets out a locally-based, regionally driven planning strategy for economic development over the next several years. The economic development goals and specific strategies identified by the Focus Groups and refined by the Strategy Committee are described in the CEDS report, which is available on the County of Maui’s website at www.mauicounty.gov/CEDS. A limited number of hard copies of the report are available from the County of Maui Mayor’s Office of Economic Development. To request a copy, call ph. (808) 270-7710. Usually conducted every five years, CEDS is mandated by the Economic Development Administration (EDA) of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The County of Maui and the State of Hawaii are regional partners with the EDA in the CEDS planning process, which provides a vehicle for individuals, organizations, local governments, educational institutions and private industry to determine what economic development efforts can best serve the community. “One of the key purposes of the CEDS is to identify opportunities to integrate federal, state, and county funding sources with private sector resources,” commented Teena Rasmussen, OED Director. “These can then be directed toward advancing economic development goals and objectives that have been defined by community participants.” As in other municipalities across the nation, Maui County must update its CEDS every five years to qualify for EDA assistance under its Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance programs.
CEDS is also used by other Federal agencies as well as the State and County to determine economic priorities. “The CEDS process, which has taken place over several months, serves as a means to engage community stakeholders, leverage the involvement of the private sector and establish a blueprint for collaboration,” said Jeanne Skog, President and CEO of MEDB. “The report provides a capacity-building foundation and helps define what economic development initiatives can create an environment for regional economic prosperity and resilience.” The CEDS process was led by a Strategy Committee drawn from business, industry, community organizations, local government, organized labor, education, utilities, public health agencies, minorities and women. The Committee identified the main economic clusters considered to be economic drivers for Maui County’s economy. These were, in alphabetical order: agriculture; construction; creative industries; energy; health and wellness; science, technology and innovation; sports and recreation; and the visitor industry. As an integral part of the process, MEDB convened Focus Groups representing each of the eight identified clusters and geographical locations to gather input on economic development challenges, opportunities, and actions relevant to the formulation of the CEDS for Maui County. Recognizing the unique economies in Lanai and Molokai, the committee approached them as distinct geographical clusters in the CEDS process and convened Focus Groups on each island. A total of 115 participants contributed during this process and their input incorporated into the CEDS report. To further inform the choice of clusters, MEDB surveyed 1,473 residents at the 2015 Maui Fair to obtain their priorities among the eight clusters. page 9
The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
Nominations sought for 2017 Annual Mayor’s Small Business Awards The Mayor’s Office of Economic Development and the Maui Chamber of Commerce are pleased to announce that nominations are now being accepted for the Annual Mayor’s Small Business Awards in 2017. All finalists and winners will be honored at an awards dinner on Tuesday, March 7, 2017, at the Waikapu Ballroom of the King Kamehameha Golf Club. The Mayor’s Small Business Awards recognize outstanding businesses in our community that have 100 or fewer employees and have had a Hawaii General Excise Tax license for no fewer than two years. Other criteria include demonstrating business leadership in a changing economic environment, creating a quality work environment for their employees, exhibiting the aloha spirit and exemplary customer service, developing partnerships with other sectors of the community, and demonstrating other exceptional qualities or traits. This year’s event includes the following six award categories: • Exceptional Small Business of the Year (10 or fewer employees) • Exceptional Small Business of the Year (11 to 35 employees) • Exceptional Small Business of the Year (36 to 100 employees) • Outstanding Non-Profit Business (100 or fewer employees) • Young Small Business Person of the Year (under age 40 as of March 7, 2017)
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• Lifetime Achievement Award (for any individual doing business in Maui County for more than 20 years; no limit on number of employees) Completed nomination packets must be received at the Maui County Business Resource Center
at Maui Mall on or before 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 10, 2017; only those entries received on or before the deadline will be considered. Submittals must include the nomination form, nomination criteria form, one typewritten letter of recommendation from other sources, and a high resolution (minimum 300 dpi) digital photograph of the nominee. No self or employer nominations will be accepted. Nomination forms are available online at www. mauicounty.gov/MCBRC and www.mauichamber. com. Paper copies may be picked up at the Maui County Business Resource Center at Maui Mall; the Maui Chamber of Commerce; and American Savings Bank, Bank of Hawaii, Central Pacific Bank, and First Hawaiian Bank branches. “Small businesses are the true job generators in our community, and they risk a great deal to open their doors, create jobs, grow and stimulate our economy,” said Mayor Alan Arakawa. “Maui County is fortunate to have many successful small businesses that are known for their entrepreneurial spirit, innovation and ingenuity. I look forward to honoring them through these awards and to sharing their resilience and resourcefulness with others as shining examples of the strength of our community.” Chamber President Pamela Tumpap praised Maui’s small businesses as being at “the heart of our community.” “They have gone through a lot these past few years to still be standing,” she noted. “We look forward to giving them well-deserved credit and honoring their tremendous accomplishments and investment in our community with Mayor Arakawa and his team.” For more information about nominations, available sponsorships or event ticket purchases, contact the Maui County Business Resource Center at 270-5767 or the Maui Chamber of Commerce at 244-0081.
The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
Maui County Business Resource Center continues classes in 2017 The County of Maui Mayor’s Office of Economic Development continues to hold its free workshops in 2017. Workshops are presented at the Maui County Business Resource Center, a County of Maui facility, located in the Maui Mall across Pizza Hut, in Suite B-9. Seating for all workshops is limited, and all workshops are subject to change or cancellation. Workshops are free unless noted otherwise. To reserve a seat, call the Maui County Business Resource Center at ph. 270-5770. The following workshops are available: The Power of the Inbox - Tips and Tricks for Successful Email Marketing Instructor: Mckenna Hallett Tuesday, January 24, 2017 – 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Email marketing never went out of style. However, in today’s on-the-go audience, its reputation for effectiveness is reaching all-time highs. Emails can have a much longer-lasting impression that just about any other form of marketing. However, if you are not using email properly, you may be missing significant opportunities and hurting your reputation. This powerful workshop takes you step-by-step through what it takes to create fully optimized emails and shows you the keys to effective email marketing: • Learn what to avoid and what to include in every email for maximum impact. • Learn how to grow your “brand” and gain authority with your audience • And, learn the five easy steps to harness the power of the inbox! o Grow a healthy list o Create great content o Customize a beautiful, mobile-friendly template that matches your brand o How to get your emails opened o Tracking your results Mckenna Hallett is a wordsmith and copywriting expert specializing in creating real results for all things that need marketing (and all things need marketing by the way!)
Writing Business Plans for the Right Reasons Instructor: Wayne Wong Wednesday, January 25, 2017 – 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Most people write business plans to raise money from a bank or to attract investors. Learn what elements make for an effective plan and what to concentrate your writing effort on. The more important reason to write a business plan is to force the management team to solidify its objectives (what), strategies (how) and tactics (when, where, who). Is there an alternative document that works better than a traditional business plan? Wayne Wong is the Maui Center Director of the Hawaii Small Business Development Center Network. The Center provides both existing and aspiring business owners with confidential, one-on-one, no cost business advising services, training workshops, and market research services. Don’t miss this highly informative workshop! You can even bring in your own “brown bag” lunch. Location, Location, Location: Is it Still the Most Important Thing? Instructor Anna Ribucan Friday, January 27, 2017 – 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Q&A til 1:30) In this workshop, we will be looking into homebased business options. Many small businesses can be run from home, but not all businesses can pass the test to start and grow a business, without causing problems due to zoning restrictions and unhappy neighbors, or to find the ideal balance between family and business. Join us in this workshop where we will explore the trend toward more mobility and less structure in operating a growing business. Anna K. Ribucan, is the owner and administrator of Lifetime Ohana Care. She has been an educator and a business development specialist. BECOMING A BEST-SELLING AUTHOR: Leveraging the World’s Greatest Marketing Secret by Writing, Publishing and Promoting Your Book to Better Market Your Business Instructor: Patrick Snow Tuesday, January 31, 2017 – 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Are you looking for a better way to market your business? Do you have a burning desire to become a best-selling author? Attend this seminar and
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
learn how to make your publishing and business goals come true. If you want to stand out from your competition, strengthen your credentials, and get free publicity, then writing and publishing a book is your best marketing strategy. Let international best-selling author, Patrick Snow, guide you through the process. In this two-hour workshop you will learn your three publishing options, top five requirements for becoming a best-selling author, and 18 mistakes to avoid. Most importantly, you will learn how to monetize your passion and even better market your business, or start a new business using your book as a platform from which you can launch! Come early, and stay late for his Q/A session that will answer all questions on your book project. As a professional speaker he has given more than 2,500 speeches on three continents. As a publishing, book marketing, and speaker coach, he has mentored more than 750 clients worldwide to achieve their publishing goals.
Special Evening Workshop - $45 per session: QuickBooks for Small Business Hands-on computer training for beginners. Instructor: Richard Kehoe, CPA Thursday, January 26, 2017 – 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Learn to set up your company’s QuickBooks in a small class setting with personalized tutoring. This class is for new users and will teach you how to record sales, receive payments, prepare invoices and balance your checkbook. Get customized answers and schedule a follow-up appointment at no cost to discuss your solutions. Sponsored by SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) and presented by Richard Kehoe, CPA and lead SCORE counselor. Free counseling sessions with experience SCORE and Small Business Development Corp. (SBCD) counselors: Tuesday afternoons, 1-3 p.m., and Thursday and Friday mornings, 9-11:30 a.m.
DWS informs public of continued use of new water source As required by the State Department of Health (DOH), the Department of Water Supply (DWS) is informing the public of the continued use of Wakiu Well C, the new water source for the Wakiu area, Hana School, Hana Medical Center, Wainapanapa area, and Uakea Road. As of December 14, 2016, the Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) approved of the use of the new Wakiu Well C as an emergency water source. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS NOTICE IS NO CAUSE FOR ALARM. THE WATER FROM THIS SOURCE CONTINUES TO BE SAFE TO DRINK, HOWEVER PER DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH REGULATIONS, WE MUST PUT OUT A PUBLIC NOTICE SUCH AS THIS ONE EVERY 30 DAYS THAT WE CONTINUE TO USE THIS EMERGENCY WATER SOURCE. Wakiu Well C was already developed and scheduled to open, pending completion of the DOH New Source approval process. However, due to pumping issues and low pressure being experienced with the current well in the Wakiu area, the Wakiu Well C was put into use sooner than expected. page 12
The DOH finished reviewing the well’s engineering report and determined that the submitted water
quality meets State and Federal drinking water regulations and is safe to drink. The report is now undergoing a review by inter-agencies that consider hydrological and geological factors, along with surrounding land uses and existing infrastructure in the well’s area of influence. Full approval for the use of the well is anticipated in late February 2017. Water samples have been and will be taken two times a month or more if needed to ensure that the quality of water meets all Federal and State regulations. Based on DOH regulations, the DWS is required to immediately inform consumers of any problems discovered through future testing. This DOH requirement is consistent with DSWS operations. If you have questions regarding water quality, call the Department of Water Supply Laboratory for more information at 270-7550 and leave a message with your questions and call back contact information. The Laboratory hours are Monday through Friday, from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. Call the 24-hour service line at 270-7633 if any other water-related problem occurs or if there are any questions.
The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
New Year, New You, New Volunteer Opportunities BY: THE COUNTY OF MAUI VOLUNTEER CENTER & SHELBY DEERING, Guest Writer Remember the days of searching the newspapers for volunteer opportunities? Perhaps you even perused the bulletin board at the grocery store, or hoped to hear of prospects through the grapevine. We now live in a digital age, when opportunities are at our fingertips through websites, databases, and social media platforms. As 2017 begins, it’s the perfect time to seek out new volunteer opportunities that may enrich your life.
page. And visit our Agencies page to find out how your organization can get more involved in the Maui community. Currently on the GetConnected portal, there are several great opportunities posted by partner agencies, such as Hale Hoike’ike and Maui County Parks & Recreation.
Hale Hoike’ike, a museum filled with Hawaiian artifacts that also includes Bailey The County of Maui House, a historical Volunteer Center 19th century Planting trees as a family friendly volunteer affair! offers an easy, home, is looking one-stop portal to for volunteers to easily locate new run the register, volunteer opportunities. On our HandsOn Maui greet volunteers, and give a brief introduction website, you’ll find our impressive GetConnected to the museum. In particular, they are searching portal, made for volunteers and agencies alike. It’s for volunteers on Monday mornings to accept something we only could have dreamed about museum admissions. The Maui Historical Society when the County of Maui Volunteer Center was has a passion for sharing Hawaiian history with started in the 1980’s! visitors, and they love it when their volunteers share that very passion. Visit the Agency Page to For volunteers, it’s an ideal place to find volunteer learn more about all of Hale Hoike’ike’s current opportunities that seamlessly match with your volunteer opportunities. unique personality, schedule, and interests. You’ll find a dashboard filled with the latest news, fresh Maui Parks & Recreation works diligently to keep opportunities, and information on local agencies Maui looking pristine and beautiful, thanks to that we partner with. the help of its dedicated base of volunteers. One upcoming opportunity is the Kula School Park Agencies enjoy engaging with GetConnected, Tree Planting on Martin Luther King Day (January updating their volunteer opportunities and 16), hosted by the Arborist Committee along with seeking talented, kindhearted people to help fulfill the Kula Community Association, Maui Green & their current needs. Our Agency Partners have Beautiful, Department of Housing and Human found great success through the portal. Instead Concerns Volunteer Center and the East District of scrambling for volunteers, the volunteers come of Parks. Maui Parks & Recreation regularly offers to you, ones that are well-matched with your volunteer opportunities, like park clean-up projects opportunities. and supporting local athletics. To see all of their offerings, go to their Agency Page. To read more about GetConnected, visit our Tips
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An Official Publication of the County of Maui
A quote that really applies to our GetConnected portal is this: “You can’t make a difference without making a connection.” The HandsOn Maui website is designed for both volunteers and agencies, to discover life-changing volunteer opportunities or to have the ability to seek those volunteers. So, whether you’re searching for a chance to
make a difference in the new year, or if you’re an organization wanting to get even more involved in the community, look no further than www. handsonamaui.com , Get Connected Program. Email, Wendy Stebbins, Volunteer Center Coordinator @ wendy.stebbins@mauicounty.gov for any questions.
Kūlia i ka nu‘u Strive to reach the summit Please help congratulate these dedicated employees as they continue to serve our community and in doing so, “strive to reach the summit.” BY: TIFFANY IIDA Department of Management
Jacky Takakura of the Department of Planning would like to report that the previous month’s Above and Beyond winner Edna Abe, Office Operations Assistant II, and Laury Kanae, Office Operations Assistant II passed on the Above and Beyond award to Tara Furukawa, Planner IV. Edna and Laury described Tara as all-around good-hearted, and said she has volunteered to help Clerical staff whenever they were shortstaffed, and has expedited mail-outs. Tara is always positive and is computer savvy and shows the clerks how to do their work more efficiently with formatting, KIVA, and templates. Congratulations Tara!
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Congratulations to Gail Davis, Zoning Administration and Enforcement Division, Department of Planning. Effective December 16, Gail’s position was reallocated to Zoning Inspector II. Gail was previously a Zoning Inspector I. Congratulations Gail! Congratulations also to Annalise Kehler, Long-Range Planning Division, Department of Planning, who also received a reallocation. Annalise is the Department’s cultural resources expert, and was previously a Planner IV. Her position was reallocated to Planner V effective October 1, 2016.
The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
Maui Metropolitan Planning Organization welcomes Executive Director Lauren Armstrong The Maui Metropolitan Planning Organization (Maui MPO) was formed in 2016 by the State of Hawai‘i and County of Maui to facilitate comprehensive planning for federally-funded transportation systems on the island of Maui. Using a datadriven approach, the MPO strives to direct public funds toward projects that increase access to opportunity and prosperity, while promoting the health and wellness of Maui’s people and environment through improved multimodal pedestrian, bicycle and transit options. The Maui MPO consists of a Policy Board, a Technical Advisory Committee, and Executive Director. The Policy Board includes the State Director of Transportation, three Maui County Councilmembers, and the County Directors of Planning, Transportation, and Public Works Departments. By mid-2018, the MPO Policy Board will decide which transportation projects receive federal funding through the 2019-2022 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The MPO provides Maui with: Compliance with federal regulations in • order to receive transportation funding; Continuing, coordinated and • comprehensive (3-C) planning process between government agencies; A transparent public decision-making • process, and; Greater local control of how Maui’s federal • transportation funding is spent. Everyone is invited to participate in Maui MPO
meetings and join our email list to stay informed. Citizens can tell the MPO which transportation projects are important to them and give feedback on criteria used to determine priority for funding. New roads are extremely expensive to build – living within our means and promoting transportation demand management strategies like carpooling, Safe Routes to School, expanding the Maui Bus system, and creating more bicycle and pedestrian-friendly spaces will be critical to maintaining a high quality of life. The next MPO Policy Board meeting will be held on Thursday, January 26, 2017 at 9:00am in the Kalana Pukui Planning Conference Room at 250 S. High Street in Wailuku. Visit the Maui Department of Transportation website or email lauren. armstrong@mauicounty.gov for more information. Lauren Armstrong was hired as MPO Executive Director in September 2016. Lauren was born and raised on Maui, graduating from Seabury Hall in 2003. Since completing a graduate program in Urban and Regional Planning at UH Mānoa, Lauren worked as an environmental planner for Townscape Inc. on O‘ahu, then as a community planner for Marin County in California, focused on of sea-level rise and public outreach programs. Lauren and her husband Kelvin live in Pukalani and enjoy surfing in their free time.
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
Explore life at 55! BY: DANA ACOSTA Department of Housing & Human Concerns Civic Adventures: Heroes on the Water
Angel Tree recipients Lyman Louthian and Eric Barlahan
Kaunoa seniors participated in a Civic Adventure volunteer project in support of the Maui chapter of Heroes on the Water, a national non-profit organization that organizes kayak fishing trips for military service veterans, supporting their rehabilitation and reintegration. In the Spirit of Giving The 2017 holiday season resulted in an abundance of giving! Angel Tree The number of gifts increased • by 40% over last year, for an estimated $3,000 in basic personal & household necessities for seniors served by Kaunoa’s Meals on Wheels, Assisted Transportation, and Congregate Nutrition programs. Toys for Tots Over $2,500 in toys was • contributed by Kaunoa seniors, volunteers and staff, and presented to Maui U.S. Marine Corps for distribution. Warm & Fuzzy socks Valley Isle Community • Federal Credit Union donated 400+ pairs of nonskid warm and fuzzy socks for Kaunoa’s Meals on Wheels recipients. page 16
The Best Years begin at 55! The County of Maui offers a wide variety of Wellness activities for adults ages 55 and better. Staying physically active and continuing to learn new skills is critical for increasing our Healthspan – the period of our lives when we are healthy, productive, and independent. Don’t miss the following Kaunoa adventures and classes coming up; there’s something for everyone. Preregistration is required. For a complete listing of all of Kaunoa’s activities, call 270-7308 or 270-4310 to receive a monthly newsletter. • MAUI ESCAPE ROOMS feature a new and exciting experience in a themed adventure requiring no special knowledge or intense physical activity. Great teambuilding tool and self-awareness experience. Friday evening, January 20, 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. OR Thursday, January 26, 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Transportation available. • From Aerobics to Zumba, there’s a fitness or wellness class for you at Kaunoa’s Spreckelsville and West Maui campuses, including but not limited to: Pilates, Tai Chi, Qigong, Yoga, Strength Training, Hiking, Nordic Pole Walking, Balance, and Nordic Pole Walking, just to name a few! • FUMANET returns to Kaunoa Spreckelsville on Thursday, February 16, from 10 a.m. – 12 Noon. No special equipment or attire is necessary (except comfortable shoes) to experience the benefits of this unique form of exercise popular in Japan. Now you can discover exercises in which your body and brain work together to improve strength, fight dementia, enhance balance, and increase brain clarity. Enrollment limited.
The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
Road to 100 pounds BY: JOHN BUCK Mayor’s Executive Assistant Recently, I have noticed there have been people concerned about my weight loss. Since January 2011, I have lost over 100 lbs. Some have the look wondering if I am well. I should tell all of you right now not to worry. I do not suffer from the effects of CCI (Cancer, Coke or Ice). As a matter of fact, I am probably the healthiest I have been in years. Except for one pill, I have eliminated all of my medication and injections. Now the question is, how I was able to do it, without the effects of CCI. I would like to take this time to share some of the concepts I have followed over the years to achieve my weight loss. You may use the concepts if you want, but I am not going to give you a guarantee that they will work for you. It could only help. First off, since 2007, I have been a Master Trainer for Stanford University’s Chronic Disease SelfManagement Program. The County of Maui Office on Aging offers this program for our seniors, but it is open to everyone who would like to make changes to their health. Better Choices for Better Health is the name of the program here in Maui County. Participants in this workshop are given tools on how to help control their health and not let what ails them be in complete control. I have used some of the tools taught in the workshop to obtain my weight loss. Some of the tools include, setting goals, creating action plans, healthy eating, the importance of exercise, use of the mind, to name a few. In 2011, since I was pushing over 300 lbs. and not feeling well, I thought it was time to something about my weight. I have to give Keith Regan our Managing Director some credit, for he started the Walking on
day during the lunch hour.
Wednesday program in 2011. Employees would meet in front of the County Building and go for a walk during the lunch hour. For me, it was tough at first but I started to feel better after the walks. I then took the initiative to walk every
Now that I had a regular exercise program, it was time to change my eating habits. For someone who loves Quarter Pounders with cheese, “All You Can Eat” buffets, I knew this would be a challenge since eating had been a hobby and at times an obsession. The change in eating habits didn’t take place overnight, but did happen over a period of time. The changes were made in bits and pieces. The changes include change in food choices and portion control. From experience, if you try to make significant changes all at once, you are bound to eventually fail. To succeed, you need to make small changes over a period of time. This is done by making a weekly action plan. “Making an Action Plan” is one of the tools taught and reinforced in the Better Choices for Better Health workshop. With an action plan you can be successful in accomplishing your goal by successfully completing small doable tasks at a time. Your action plan for the week, if you were to make a change in your eating habits, could be reducing carbohydrates intake or even measuring out your food portions. You could start out two (2) days a week and then each week you would increase the number of days and/or meals. Eventually you have accomplished your of goal of reducing your food intake or a change in what you are eating.
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
Some of my methods of portion control include; • Using a dessert size plate instead of a regular size plate. • Using a food scale for measuring my protein intake. • I use a 4 oz. container to measure out my vegetables and other items. • Record in a journal, the amount of food consumed at each meal. A Nutritionist shared with me, it is best to take small bites of food and chew well. This will allow you to get the full effect of the meal and you become satisfied sooner, hence reducing the amount of food you consume. To assist you in taking small bites, it is recommended you use the smallest utensil you can find. A cocktail fork for an example. This will prevent you from shoveling large quantity of food at a time. In my case, I use chopsticks for all of my meals. Nutritionists also tell us eating breakfast each morning needs to be part of your weight loss routine. Your breakfast should not include doughnuts or pastries with your morning coffee. It is recommended that your breakfast contains protein and low in sugar and fat content. Since I was eating less at each meal, I added to 2 extra meals. I eat 5 small meals instead of 3 large meals a day. Eating small meals more often is what Nutritionists recommend. After several years, I lost 50 lbs. This is due to a life style change I have been following that includes;
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•
Walking approximately 3 miles every day,
•
Portion control
• Drinking water or sugar free beverages. I consume about 1 gallon of water/liquid a day. • Cutting out sugar and carbohydrates • Reading food labels • Journaling my liquid and food consumption. Two years ago, I started the process of having Bariatric Surgery. The surgery is not the cure all solution to weight loss but a tool. To succeed you need to make changes in your lifestyle before surgery. By losing 50 lbs., with my lifestyle change, I was a good candidate for Bariatric Surgery and be successful with the weight loss and keeping it off. Since my surgery in October of 2015, I have lost another 70 lbs. I continue to do my walking, portion control, and all the things I mentioned earlier. One last thing, getting a good night’s sleep is key to your weight loss. Doctors recommend you get at least 8 hours of sleep every night. For a lot of us, this is a major lifestyle change. I will also confess there are times when I do have cravings for certain items. I will have a minuscule amount of the item to satisfy the craving and prevents frustration when you ignore the craving or deny yourself. It has helped and it is usually nothing more than a teaspoon. If you would like more information on how I did it, how I feel after my weight loss, feel free to drop by or catch me on my noon time walk. You can even join me any time to get some exercise. Like I said, I am not a qualified doctor, nutritionist or medical professing. I just followed the advice of the experts and putting it into practice along with making some lifestyle changes.
The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
Kupaianaha “Blessings of Life” BY: TIFFANY IIDA Department of Management We are each so fortunate to have wonderful people in our lives, friends, co-workers, loved ones who are important to us. The High Street Journal wishes to share our employees’ good news, offer a chance to get to know each other better and offer the precious joys that add spark to our lives. These are special moments and stories as written and provided by employees of the County of Maui. This column is your chance to express gratitude, praise and the simple and abundant joy these experiences have brought you- The blessings of life! Please send submissions to tiffany.iida@mauicounty.gov for inclusion in future issues of The High Street Journal.
Hyenie Martin, Aging and Disability Services Specialist II, Office of Aging, Department of Housing and Human Concerns and Gimberley Almeida, Aging and Disability Services Specialist I, Office of Aging, Department of Housing and Human Concerns, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter/niece, Jontue Akahai’aheaheokaacaciakoanakiki’eao’kaai na Martin, to Matt B. Mangum, son of Sharon Warren and Charles Mangum of Charleston, SC. Michelle Makii, Secretary to the Director of the Department of Environmental Management would like to wish a happy birthday to our January babies from the Department of Environmental Management! Wayne Alcon, Mark Felipe, Peter Kaina, William Perreira, Kolo Pupunu, John Barclay, Paul Boteilho, Randy Demeyers, Calvin Flores, Ben Martin, Leon Matsui, Paul Morioka, Melvyn Sumer, Melvin Tavares, David Tuzon and Benny Yanos.
Congratulations to Dept. of Transportation Deputy Director Marc Takamori and Marci Sato of the Mayor’s Budget Office on completing their very first marathon! They ran all 26 miles from Wailea to Lahaina in the Maui Oceanfront Marathon held on January 15, 2017. Congratulations also to Troy Hashimoto of the Office of Council Chair Mike White and Susan Sato Clements on completing the 10K, and to Irina Constantinescu on completing the half marathon.
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
POLL: “What is/are your New Year’s resolution(s) for 2017?” Karin Phaneuf, Dept. of Parks & Recreation: “Do more YOGA for mental and physical health AND Get Certified to host a foster child. “
Hana Steel, Dept. of Environmental Management: “I intend on saving every single penny I make, above and beyond basic living expenses and taxes. “
Helida Adler, Dept. of Parks & Recreation: “Get in shape - EXERCISE MORE and Live a HEALTHY LIFESTYLE!”
Keith Regan, Dept. of Management: “My New Year’s resolution for 2017 is to lose 22 pounds. As of January 15th, I’ve shed 13 pounds. Nine more to go.”
John Buck, Office of the Mayor: “My New Year’s resolution for 2017, is to get 8 hours of sleep every night. Part of my life style change formy weight control and better health program.”
Photo Gallery A photo-essay of activities in the County
Valley Isle Community Federal Credit Union donated 400+ pairs of non-skid warm, fuzzy socks for Kaunoa’s Meals on Wheels program recipients. page 20
From left: Credit Union staff Valerie Tsue & Greg Pick, MOW director Luanne Fujimoto and Program Assistant Lynn Kam and Credit Union staff Alia Garcia.
The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
For Kaunoa’s Toys for Tots 2016, $2,500 in toys were delivered! From left: Kaunoa’s Administrator Ruth Griffith, Assistant Administrator Roland Prieto, U.S. Marine Corps Private First Class Ryan Laberinto, RSVP volunteer Yolanda Caires, U.S. Marine Corps Private Klint Matillano, Leisure/ Wellness Staff Renee Gaines and Lori Wright and U.S. Marine Corps Sgt Ignacio Reyes.
Annual Toys for Tots held on December 11, 2016 Photo: Ryan Piros
Congratulations to all of the Department of Personnel Services’ staff members who participated in the Boot Decorating Contest! They all have so much talent & creativity! Photos: Lynn Araki-Regan
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
Kaunoa’s RSVP Advisory Council member Robbie St. Sure surprised Meals on Wheels recipient Jon Rich with a very special and unique gift from the Angel Tree, a quilt hand-made by Robbie’s husband Ed Lum.
Assisted Transportation staff Kathy Fong, RSVP Advisory Council member Mary Drayer, and A.T. Specialist Jenny UemuraSano (far right) presented Angel Tree gifts to Lyman Louthian and Eric Barlahan.
Kaunoa’s Nutrition Program staff Leinani Hong, RSVP Advisory Council member Danielle Sanchez, and Nutrition Specialist, Grace DeSilva (far right) with Angel tree recipients Kimiko Tengan and Larry Hirata
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
Employees from the Department of the Corporation Counsel supported Maui United Way’s Holiday Toy Drive and helped to fill the donation box located in the lobby of the County Building.
Kwanzaa Celebration on December 26, 2016 Photo: Ryan Piros
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The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
2016 Lahaina Christmas Parade on December 24, 2016. Photos: Ryan Piros
Mayor Arakawa signs agreement allowing Credit Union members to set up real property tax payments Photo: Ryan Piros page 24
The High Street Journal
An Official Publication of the County of Maui
HC & S’ Last Harvest Photos: Ryan Piros
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