Aloha and Warm Season’s Greetings,
As we approach this time of dark, waiting for the Winter Solstice and the return of the light, it brings comfort to the heart to give, and bring joy and benefit to others. Often we give gifts to friends and family as a symbol of the appreciation and affection we feel. This year, why not support some of the wonderful shops and artisans in Honokaa and Hamakua as you make your Holiday purchases? It will be a gift to your community, as well as the one who receives the gift.
News and Updates:
HBA Member Party – Saturday, January 14th- HBA will be celebrating the New Year, our community, and the future of Honokaa and Hamakua with a party for all HBA members and their families at the Honokaa Club. There will be music, laughter, and of course – great food. The winners of the Holiday Decoration and Lighting contest will be announced and awards given. Look for more on this in the January article. Now is a great time to jump in, serve your community, have some fun, and become a member of the Honokaa Business Association.
New Members – HBA welcomes new members Waipio Rim B&B run by Steve and Nancy Roberson. Waipio Rim has the distinction of a consistent, hard to get, 5 Star rating with the industry leader TripAdvisor. www.waipiorim.com (808) 775-1727.
Also, welcome to Hamakua Coast Property Management, LLC, managed by Sandy Jilton, a new member of the HBA Board. www.HamakuaCoast.com (808) 775-1422.
Removal of Mamane Street Trash Containers- The trash containers on Mamane Street are soon to be removed if town residents do not stop putting household waste in the containers. The trash cans clearly state “No Household Trash”, and it is against the law. If you see anyone using the containers for household trash, stop them, and let them know the consequences for Honokaa if they continue. It took time, focus, and the cooperation of the State to have these containers installed on Mamane Street. It would be a shame if residents, and particularly our guests and visitors, no longer have this essential convenience.
Pedestrian Connectivity/Sidewalks– Yesterday was driving down Lehua Street, past the Malama Market and two small children were walking to up the side of the road. No sidewalk, not much room and cars and trucks going each way. When I thought about it for a minute, it was a frightening sight. Through Dominic Yagong’s efforts there is a survey scheduled to ascertain exactly where the road right of way is so the area for sidewalks can be determined. This is the first step, of many, in what we hope will not be a slow process to create sidewalks connecting the Hamakua Health Center/ Hale Ho’ola Hamakua; the County Gym Complex; and NHERC with the town of Honokaa and Mamane Street. Any journey starts with the first step.
Honokaa Sewer Project– The April 2011 date for Sewer Connection Letter mailing has been postponed. If all goes as planned, letters requiring those who are to be served by the new Sewer system will be sent in February with hook up required within 180 days of receiving the letter. On November 17, 2011 a meeting was held at the Honokaa High School cafeteria with a number of contractors and engineers who are willing to offer their services. One of the main themes of the meeting was economy of scale. The larger the number of service laterals a contractor has to install the better price he can offer. A list of these contractors and their contact information can be found at the HBA Website –www.Honokaa.org
Corresponding Secretary-The HBA is seeking a member to join the HBA Board and become Corresponding Secretary. Responsibilities include: Maintaining records regarding membership, corresponding with membership and the community, and assisting in the publication of a newsletter.
Featured Hamakua Businesses –
Honokaa People’s Theatre– Dr. Tawn Keeney, owner of the Honoka’a People’s Theater is “feeling the bubbling of movement, the raising up of wings, at the Theater”. The transformations of the upcoming months are intended to make this theater relevant to you, and your family and friends – the Theater is ready for liftoff!
Aside from the advantage of seeing films here close to home. the Honokaa People’s Theater also has a the largest screen on the Island with a picture quality that is both bright and big plus a ‘state of the art’ DTS Sound system (though occasionally the movie arrives minus its disc of digital soundtrack!). Real butter on the popcorn, and concession prices are half those in Hilo. Adult tickets are only $6, while Prince Kuhio charges $10 just a week or two before.
Dr. Keeney envisions the next phase as only one movie shown 4 or 5 days during the week. These will be only the best films that can be found — not every movie that comes to Hilo as has been the case. Cutting back a little on films will allow the realization of the Theater’s great potential as a performance venue, more than simply a movie house.
The plan is to remove the Cinema from Saturday nights, and devote that time to live and locally produced performances. The theater has gone through some recent transformations to help realize this new potential: stage has been enlarge, seating capacity has returned to pre-1980’s level of 650 (up from 530); installation of technically advanced lighting (including moving head spots); opening up what is acknowledged as the best dance floor on the island; establishment of a changing room for artists and performers behind the huge screen; and dynamic video projection.
The concerts offer the best audience experience of popular music performance of any venue on this island. Over the past two years the Peoples Theatre has staged some of the most notable concerts on the Big Island, including multiple legends of Rock and Roll and Grammy Award winners. Dr. Keeney is convinced that the theater can also create a “nightclub” experience which is superior to any ‘club’ venue on any of the islands – all without alcohol. The Saturday night schedule will be roughly half the programs for over 18, and half under 18. He hopes to win the area school’s support for these ‘under 18’ programs through intensive security presence, and significant input into the content of these programs.
To match this shift and growth the Theater will expand the concession counter offerings. Candy and popcorn will soon be deemphasized in favor of a much more attractive menu, including blended drinks, vegetarian soups, healthy snacks, and possibly sandwiches.
Following the great performance and huge community response to last year’s hula drama commemorating the families of Waipio, Dr. Keeney sees great relevance for the Theater in perpetuating Hawaiian cultural values and heritage. He is also evaluating how to best respond to the many requests to open during the day with a concession service for the significant number of Japanese tourists who have made the People’s Theatre a destination since the hugely popular Japanese film, ‘Honokaa Boy’.
Since the early 1930’s The Honokaa People’s theater has gone through many changes and challenges. Incredible performances have touched hearts and created never to be forgotten memories. Our Island is blessed to have Dr. Keeney’s selfless devotion to maintaining and improving the historic and still relevant Honokaa People’s Theater so that it can continue to be a center of art, culture, history, humor and community enrichment. Long live the Honokaa People’s Theater!
Please check out the information and photos of the Theater and its history at their great website – www.Honokaapeople.com
Pines & Palms Properties, LLC- an insured, one man band, home improvement company serving the community with handyman work and maintenance. Owner Stephen Maas’s multifaceted craftsmanship and lifetime experience is evident in his; carpentry; electrical; plumbing; drywall, flooring; landscaping; and painting.
Not limited to homeowners, he repairs, replaces, and remodels for property managers, tenants, landlords, real estate companies, as well as commercial properties. If needed, he also has a network of skilled and licensed contractors to assist on larger projects.
A ‘Jack of all Trades’, Steve has an affordable set rate for time plus materials. He will give you an idea of what the job entails for your specific needs, and guarantees his work. Thus far, jobs completed have ranged from O’ Okala, to Kona, to Hawi and most places in between.
During these challenging times it is hard to do some of the things we would like to do. With Pines and Palms, for just a small amount money, you can make changes, update your property, and feel great about finally getting those projects done! There are always plenty of repairs calling for attention. Make your life easier, make those improvements and repairs. Call – Stephen E. Maas, Pines & Palms Properties, LLC (808)430-2520.
From all of us on the HBA Board, wishing you a healthy, happy Holiday, and a totally awesome 2012!
Mele Kalikimaka and Hau’oli Makahiki Hou
Augustuz Elliott
President Honokaa Business Association
Office 775-1422, Cell 938-9500
www.Honokaa.org
HBA Monthly Article
As we approach this time of dark, waiting for the Winter Solstice and the return of the light, it brings comfort to the heart to give, and bring joy and benefit to others. Often we give gifts to friends and family as a symbol of the appreciation and affection we feel. This year, why not support some of the wonderful shops and artisans in Honokaa and Hamakua as you make your Holiday purchases? It will be a gift to your community, as well as the one who receives the gift.
News and Updates:
HBA Member Party – Saturday, January 14th- HBA will be celebrating the New Year, our community, and the future of Honokaa and Hamakua with a party for all HBA members and their families at the Honokaa Club. There will be music, laughter, and of course – great food. The winners of the Holiday Decoration and Lighting contest will be announced and awards given. Look for more on this in the January article. Now is a great time to jump in, serve your community, have some fun, and become a member of the Honokaa Business Association.
New Members – HBA welcomes new members Waipio Rim B&B run by Steve and Nancy Roberson. Waipio Rim has the distinction of a consistent, hard to get, 5 Star rating with the industry leader TripAdvisor. www.waipiorim.com (808) 775-1727.
Also, welcome to Hamakua Coast Property Management, LLC, managed by Sandy Jilton, a new member of the HBA Board. www.HamakuaCoast.com (808) 775-1422.
Removal of Mamane Street Trash Containers- The trash containers on Mamane Street are soon to be removed if town residents do not stop putting household waste in the containers. The trash cans clearly state “No Household Trash”, and it is against the law. If you see anyone using the containers for household trash, stop them, and let them know the consequences for Honokaa if they continue. It took time, focus, and the cooperation of the State to have these containers installed on Mamane Street. It would be a shame if residents, and particularly our guests and visitors, no longer have this essential convenience.
Pedestrian Connectivity/Sidewalks– Yesterday was driving down Lehua Street, past the Malama Market and two small children were walking to up the side of the road. No sidewalk, not much room and cars and trucks going each way. When I thought about it for a minute, it was a frightening sight. Through Dominic Yagong’s efforts there is a survey scheduled to ascertain exactly where the road right of way is so the area for sidewalks can be determined. This is the first step, of many, in what we hope will not be a slow process to create sidewalks connecting the Hamakua Health Center/ Hale Ho’ola Hamakua; the County Gym Complex; and NHERC with the town of Honokaa and Mamane Street. Any journey starts with the first step.
Honokaa Sewer Project– The April 2011 date for Sewer Connection Letter mailing has been postponed. If all goes as planned, letters requiring those who are to be served by the new Sewer system will be sent in February with hook up required within 180 days of receiving the letter. On November 17, 2011 a meeting was held at the Honokaa High School cafeteria with a number of contractors and engineers who are willing to offer their services. One of the main themes of the meeting was economy of scale. The larger the number of service laterals a contractor has to install the better price he can offer. A list of these contractors and their contact information can be found at the HBA Website –www.Honokaa.org
Corresponding Secretary-The HBA is seeking a member to join the HBA Board and become Corresponding Secretary. Responsibilities include: Maintaining records regarding membership, corresponding with membership and the community, and assisting in the publication of a newsletter.
Featured Hamakua Businesses –
Honokaa People’s Theatre– Dr. Tawn Keeney, owner of the Honoka’a People’s Theater is “feeling the bubbling of movement, the raising up of wings, at the Theater”. The transformations of the upcoming months are intended to make this theater relevant to you, and your family and friends – the Theater is ready for liftoff!
Aside from the advantage of seeing films here close to home. the Honokaa People’s Theater also has a the largest screen on the Island with a picture quality that is both bright and big plus a ‘state of the art’ DTS Sound system (though occasionally the movie arrives minus its disc of digital soundtrack!). Real butter on the popcorn, and concession prices are half those in Hilo. Adult tickets are only $6, while Prince Kuhio charges $10 just a week or two before.
Dr. Keeney envisions the next phase as only one movie shown 4 or 5 days during the week. These will be only the best films that can be found — not every movie that comes to Hilo as has been the case. Cutting back a little on films will allow the realization of the Theater’s great potential as a performance venue, more than simply a movie house.
The plan is to remove the Cinema from Saturday nights, and devote that time to live and locally produced performances. The theater has gone through some recent transformations to help realize this new potential: stage has been enlarge, seating capacity has returned to pre-1980’s level of 650 (up from 530); installation of technically advanced lighting (including moving head spots); opening up what is acknowledged as the best dance floor on the island; establishment of a changing room for artists and performers behind the huge screen; and dynamic video projection.
The concerts offer the best audience experience of popular music performance of any venue on this island. Over the past two years the Peoples Theatre has staged some of the most notable concerts on the Big Island, including multiple legends of Rock and Roll and Grammy Award winners. Dr. Keeney is convinced that the theater can also create a “nightclub” experience which is superior to any ‘club’ venue on any of the islands – all without alcohol. The Saturday night schedule will be roughly half the programs for over 18, and half under 18. He hopes to win the area school’s support for these ‘under 18’ programs through intensive security presence, and significant input into the content of these programs.
To match this shift and growth the Theater will expand the concession counter offerings. Candy and popcorn will soon be deemphasized in favor of a much more attractive menu, including blended drinks, vegetarian soups, healthy snacks, and possibly sandwiches.
Following the great performance and huge community response to last year’s hula drama commemorating the families of Waipio, Dr. Keeney sees great relevance for the Theater in perpetuating Hawaiian cultural values and heritage. He is also evaluating how to best respond to the many requests to open during the day with a concession service for the significant number of Japanese tourists who have made the People’s Theatre a destination since the hugely popular Japanese film, ‘Honokaa Boy’.
Since the early 1930’s The Honokaa People’s theater has gone through many changes and challenges. Incredible performances have touched hearts and created never to be forgotten memories. Our Island is blessed to have Dr. Keeney’s selfless devotion to maintaining and improving the historic and still relevant Honokaa People’s Theater so that it can continue to be a center of art, culture, history, humor and community enrichment. Long live the Honokaa People’s Theater!
Please check out the information and photos of the Theater and its history at their great website – www.Honokaapeople.com
Pines & Palms Properties, LLC- an insured, one man band, home improvement company serving the community with handyman work and maintenance. Owner Stephen Maas’s multifaceted craftsmanship and lifetime experience is evident in his; carpentry; electrical; plumbing; drywall, flooring; landscaping; and painting.
Not limited to homeowners, he repairs, replaces, and remodels for property managers, tenants, landlords, real estate companies, as well as commercial properties. If needed, he also has a network of skilled and licensed contractors to assist on larger projects.
A ‘Jack of all Trades’, Steve has an affordable set rate for time plus materials. He will give you an idea of what the job entails for your specific needs, and guarantees his work. Thus far, jobs completed have ranged from O’ Okala, to Kona, to Hawi and most places in between.
During these challenging times it is hard to do some of the things we would like to do. With Pines and Palms, for just a small amount money, you can make changes, update your property, and feel great about finally getting those projects done! There are always plenty of repairs calling for attention. Make your life easier, make those improvements and repairs. Call – Stephen E. Maas, Pines & Palms Properties, LLC (808)430-2520.
From all of us on the HBA Board, wishing you a healthy, happy Holiday, and a totally awesome 2012!
Mele Kalikimaka and Hau’oli Makahiki Hou
Augustuz Elliott
President Honokaa Business Association
Office 775-1422, Cell 938-9500
www.Honokaa.org
The Honokaa Business Association General Membership meeting will be held at 6PM on Tuesday, October 18th at the Honokaa School cafeteria. Our guest speaker will be Dominic Yagong providing a status update of the Honokaa Sewer Project as well as information on the time line requirements for hooking up to the laterals. Attending the Meeting will be Dora Beck, Acting Director for the Department of Environmental Management; and Lyle Hirota, Waste Water Deputy Division Chief. Mike Okumoto from the Finance Department will be on hand to answer any questions regarding the County Sewer Loan Program.Following the discussion and questions – election of Honokaa Business Association Officers, and Members of the Board of Directors. The Board is becoming increasingly active and we welcome your participation as we work together to help turn things around in Honokaa and Hamakua. Membership forms will also be available. Heavy Pupus from Malama Market. Come learn, become a member and enjoy the evening. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 6PM – Honokaa School Cafeteria. Meeting is OPEN to ALL!
Augustuz Elliott
Honokaa Business Association
1) Public Restrooms. Right now there are no public bathrooms in Honokaa. If someone is in town, and wants to use a restroom, they are often directed to the County Gym complex. If they try and walk there, we will have more than little kids wishing they had diapers. If they drive, then they will most likely leave town. Not great for business.
2) Parking. During this era of a slow economy, there are times when parking is available. And, there are times when the parking places are all filled. If we want our town to prosper there needs to be adequate, convenient parking.
3) A convenient pedestrian connection between NHERC and Mamane Street; between the County Gym Complex and Mamane Street; and between Hale Ho’ola Hamakua and Mamane Street.
Millions have been spent on the County Gym Complex, the Hospital, and NHERC. Unfortunately, the overall interconnectedness of the town was not taken into consideration. There was no comprehensive plan. Try to walk from NHERC down Plumeria to town: there are no sidewalks and narrow (or no) shoulders. Not easy to do, not safe, and a big risk (the County is currently exposing itself to major liability).
What to do to remedy these concerns? Some solutions, like parking, will likely require significant funds and involve Grants, or funding, from the Feds, the State, and the County. Other solutions may be simpler, quicker, and more affordable.
For example NHERC is designing a pavilion that will have 4 Restrooms available to the public. It will be located on the NHERC Campus, as close to Honokaa town as possible. The Building Permit is pending and construction is set to take 6 to 8 months. This could help with the Mamane Street restroom situation IF there is a side walk installed going along Plumeria to Mamane Street.
The County Gym complex has good parking that could serve Mamane Street, but again no convenient way to walk between the two. One idea is to move the elderly housing to the area designated for it – next to the long term care facility – and make Koniaka Place (which almost connects Mamane Street and the Gym Complex) into a wide promenade/ mini-park connecting the County Gym and Mamane Street.
At its core Honokaa is a wonderful town. With some care, focus, and energy, it can come back again, better than ever. Imagine Honokaa businesses thriving from increased foot traffic – with parking, bathrooms and walking trails/sidewalks, the tourism busses bringing visitors and their business back to our town. The currently vacant store fronts would become sought after resources and our overall economy would thrive.
The Honokaa Business Association is working for Honokaa. Join us.
Augustuz Elliott
President of the Honokaa Business Association
(808) 775-1422