Catch Warren & Annabelle: They’re Magic!

September 6, 2011

Warren Gibson may be the funniest magician alive. You could say he’s a standup comedian who uses magic for a prop. You could say that, but you’d be wrong. Actually, he’s an extraordinary magician with a unique repertoire and a flair for homespun humor that combine for some of the best entertainment anywhere. From the minute he appears on stage with no props, no boxes, no smoke and mirrors, and proceeds to roll up his sleeves (when was the last time you saw a magician roll up his sleeves?), you know this ain’t going to be just another magic show.

 Gibson appears six nights a week at a nightclub and theater on Front Street in Lahaina, which is designed to stage a show as unusual as its stars—Warren & Annabelle. Warren shares top billing at his club with a 150-year-old ghost who doesn’t say much but is a great piano player. Annabelle opens the show at the piano taking random requests from guests. No, you can’t see her. But when she plays, the keys move, the pedals pump, and you don’t know if you’ve had one too many or if there really is a ghost present. After Annabelle retires to the attic, Warren takes the stage for a nearly two-hour performance. This is a show you have to see to believe. Once you have, you’re going to be hooked.

 Warren & Annabelle’s is open Monday through Saturday. Guests must be 21 years or older with valid ID. Admission, appetizers, desserts and cocktails are available as a package or a la carte. The show lasts about four hours

 

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Maui Water Utility

September 5, 2011

A quick Q&A for the Maui County Department of Water Supply.

 How do I open an account, ask questions about my account and bill, start or terminate water service, or report a change of address?

Call the Maui County Department of Water Supply (DWS) Customer Service Representatives at 270-7730. Or stop by our Front Window on the 5th Floor of the Kalana O Maui Building, located at 200 South High Street in Wailuku. The Front Window is open from 7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekdays, and closed on weekends and holidays. See the customer service page for much more information on specific topics.

 How do I establish new water service at a property that is not already connected to the system?

First, call Customer Service at 270-7730. You must be the property owner and you’ll need your tax map key and lot number. Also, you will need to know the name of your subdivision if it is an approved subdivision.

If your property is not in an approved subdivision, you’ll be referred to the Engineering Division. An engineer will check if any improvements are necessary before water service can be established. Call 270-7835 for more information.

If no improvements are necessary, you can come in and apply for a water meter. The engineer will guide you in what you need to do.

 How do I pay for my water bill? What if I have specific questions about my bill?

Payment of your water bill can be done in one of three ways. You may mail the top portion of your water bill along with your payment to the following address:

Department of Water Supply
County of Maui
200 South High Street 
Wailuku, HI 96793-2155

To ensure that your account is properly credited, please write your account number on your check (you can find your account number on your bill). Make checks payable to: Department of Water Supply.

Secondly, you can bring your bill and payment in person to the Front Window on the 5th Floor of the Kalana O Maui Building, located at 200 South High Street in Wailuku. The Front Window is open from 7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekdays, and closed on weekends and holidays.

And finally, you may pay at any County Baseyard (Lahaina, Hana, Molokai) or at the Maui County Service Center at the Maui Mall in Kahului, providing you pay the minimum amount due on or before the DATE DUE. You must have a complete bill (top and bottom portion). The Service Center accepts CHECKS ONLY.

To avoid late payment charges, please allow sufficient time for your payment to reach us by the DATE DUE.

If you have specific questions about your water bill, please direct them to our Customer Service Representatives at 270-7730 or stop by the office. 

What do the charges on my bill mean?

 http://www.co.maui.hi.us/documents/Water/Fiscal%20Division/readyourbill.PDF

 

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See Maui On Horseback

August 31, 2011

Maui is a place that begs to be explored. From the rim of Haleakala’s vast volcanic crater to the depths of the Pacific Ocean floor, secrets wait to be revealed and adventures follow naturally.

A guided horseback tour is a great way to not only explore out-of-the-way terrain, but also to become familiar with the lay of the land and the island’s culture. Tours are as diverse as the terrain. Pick your way to the floor of a crater. Ride through a generations-old, family-owned cattle ranch. Or saddle up for a “talk story” ride in remote Kipahulu where life as it was still exists.

Kipahulu, just beyond Hana, is a wildly beautiful and ancient place where people still follow traditional Hawaiian practices and life stories are written much the same as the stories of their ancestors. Guided by the belief that a culture dies when it stops being practiced, these people, often at great hardship, hold close their relationship with nature, taking seriously their role as caretakers of the ‘aina, or the land.

You’ll get to know Kipahulu and its Native Hawaiians when you set off with Maui Stables on a horseback ride. Each tour begins with a traditional pule, or prayer, and native chants will be used as part of the tour narration. Maui Stables is located 50 miles from major resort areas near the pools of Ohe’o Gulch. Call for directions.

Outside Makawao, at the edge of an Upcountry rainforest, Pi’iholo Ranch offers horseback rides and a glimpse of another era of Hawaii’s history. Owned and operated by Peter Baldwin, the ranch has been in the Baldwin family for six generations. The Baldwins trace their history to the missionary era of the 1830s and have a long history of cattle ranching and prominent public service.

Tours, conducted by family and friends, offer gorgeous views, stories about Maui’s ranching history and glimpses of wildlife, like the endangered Hawaiian nene goose, which is the state bird. The Baldwins have established a preserve and nursery for nenes on the ranch. There are three tours a day from Monday through Saturday. Private tours also are available.

Another company, Pony Express, conducts tours that descend from Haleakala’s summit to a massive volcanic valley, erroneously referred to as a crater, where 500-foot cinder cones and other strange formations punctuate the otherwise barren terrain.

Riders travel the Sliding Sands Trail, which descends 2,500 feet to the valley floor where a picnic lunch is served before heading back up the trail on this four-hour, 7.5-mile ride. Riders check in at the Haleakala Ranch office and then meet with a guide at the Haleakala National Park Visitor Center.

Less experienced riders may want to pass on this trip and opt for a Pony Express Haleakala Ranch ride. Cowboy up and ride through Maui’s largest working cattle ranch, located at an elevation of 4,000 feet. Catch terrific coastal views as you hear stories about Hawaii’s legendary cowboys, the paniolo.

 

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Emergency Preparedness

July 29, 2011

One of the realities of living in paradise is the occasional natural disaster. Here’s a quick Q&A on how to deal with an emergency.

 What should I do when I hear the Civil Defense sirens?

Civil Defense sirens are tested each month at 11:45 a.m. on the first working day of each month. If you hear the Civil Defense siren, turn on your radio to one of the following local radio stations for information:

KMVI-AM 550/FM 98.3
KNUI-AM 900/FM 99.9
KAOI-AM 1110/FM 95.1/FM 96.7 (upcountry)
KLHI-FM 101.1 (west Maui)
KPOA-FM 93.5 (west Maui)
KMMK-FM 102.3
KDLX-FM 94.3
KNUQ-FM 103.3 or 103.7
KONI-FM 104.7
KPMW-FM 105.5

After turning on your radio, listen for emergency information and instructions. Take the necessary protective actions as directed and keep tuned for further information and instructions.

 What is the difference between a WATCH and a WARNING?

A “watch” is an official announcement that a hazardous condition may be a serious threat to life and property within a particular time. “WATCH” status means you should GET READY and LISTEN to your radio or television for further instructions.

A “WARNING” is an official announcement that hazardous, life-threatening conditions are about to occur or are occurring. “WARNING” status means you should TAKE ACTION.

 Should I evacuate or stay where I am?

Information about which areas should be evacuated will be broadcast over the Emergency Alert System (EAS) on your radio or local TV. Evacuation instructions are issued with your safety in mind. Compliance is voluntary, but orders are given only in the most serious of circumstances.

If your area is advised to evacuate and you are unable to do so, immediately inform the authorities of your situation. If you area is not advised to evacuate, you may still report to the designated shelter closest to your location.

 What should I do to protect my pets/animals?

Make advanced preparations to ensure the safety of your pets:

1. FOOD: Keep at least two weeks of food in an airtight, waterproof container. Dry food has a shelf life, so rotate periodically.

2. WATER: Store at least two weeks of water specifically for your pets in addition to water you need for yourself and family.

3. MEDICINE: Keep an extra supply of medicines your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container.

4. FIRST AID KIT: Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet’s emergency medical needs.

5. COLLAR with ID TAG, HARNESS or LEASH: Your pet should wear a collar with its identification at all times. Permanent methods of identification like microchips or tattooing should be used.

6. CRATE/PET CARRIER: If you need to evacuate in an emergency situation, take your pets and animals with you – provided it is practical to do so. In many cases, your ability to do so will be aided by having a sturdy, safe, comfortable crate or carrier ready for transporting your pet. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down. Help your dog get accustomed to the crate by using it from time to time. Don’t wait until emotions and stress are high due to an emergency situation to introduce your pet to the carrier or crate.

7. FAMILIAR ITEMS: Put favorite toys, treats, or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet.

For further information, go to the Maui Humane Society website at www.mauihumanesociety.org.

 Where is the nearest evacuation shelter/emergency shelter?

The opening of shelters will be announced over radio and local television stations. The shelters may not be opened immediately, so listen to the radio for specific shelter openings. Go to the nearest open shelter.

 Where do I evacuate?

Go to an area 50 feet above sea level, if possible. If you don’t have time to travel to high ground, but are in a multi-story building, go to an upper level of the home or building. If you are on the beach and unable to get to high ground go inland as far as you can. The tsunami evacuation maps found in the Verizon Telephone Book illustrates the primary evacuation routes. Take your disaster supply kit with you, if possible.

Shelters will be opened as needed. Listen to your radio for details. Pets are NOT allowed at emergency shelters so please plan ahead for their safety

 http://www.mauiinformationguide.com/tsunami-evacuation-routes.php

 

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Take in some Art and Real Estate

July 23, 2011

Nestled in the heart of Wailea Resort, The Shops at Wailea is Maui’s premier shopping and dining destination, home to more than 70 distinct boutiques, shops, restaurants and galleries.

 Located in the Shops at Wailea, Maui’s finest luxury shopping center, Eclectic Image Gallery Has an exquisite collection of internationally renowned artists.  With original paintings, blown and Sculpted glass, fine art photography and just about any other type of artwork you can think of, they are sure to have something to satisfy even the most astute collector.Telephone:  (808) 874-0701

 After you browse all the wonderful galleries take a stroll across the balcony and stop by Century 21 and Say hello. I’ll be there from 6 to 9 pm tonight.  I can show you some of the great home and condo deals Maui has to offer.

 

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Renew Your Motor Vehicle Registration Online

July 21, 2011

 

The online vehicle registration renewal system, https://mvr.ehawaii.gov/renewals/index.html?county=maui  allows you to renew your registration ONE VEHICLE at a time.

YOUR VALIDATED REGISTRATION AND EMBLEM WILL BE MAILED WITHIN 10 WORKING DAYS. If you do not receive your validated registration and emblem before the expiration date, you may be subject to citation.

You can only use this service if:

  • You have received a renewal application form.
  • Your vehicle is currently registered in the County of Maui.
  • Your registration is within 45 days of the expiration date.
  • Your renewal application form does not indicate an expired vehicle inspection date.
  • Your renewal application form indicates your current mailing address.
  • There are no requirements listed in the SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS portion on your renewal application form which requires you to submit additional form(s) with your renewal application and payment.
  • Registrations that are up to 6 months past the due date can now be processed online. Applicable penalties will be added.

What will you need? — Your license plate number AND the last four digits of your vehicle identification number

 

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Take in a Sunset Dinner Cruise

July 19, 2011

Feeling romantic?

How about dinner with an unobstructed ocean view, lit by the glow of a soft pink sunset. Add cocktails, good food, dancing, entertainment and special appearances by this year’s smash humpback whale show. Romantic enough? Pick from a variety of sunset cruises available most evenings and leaving from Westside harbors.

Pride of Maui features a sunset cocktail cruise Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday evenings. The boat departs Ma’alaea Harbor at 5:30 p.m. and returns about two hours later. An assortment of inviting pupus and cocktails will provide the counterpoint for a dreamy excursion into the fading sun.

Get a bite of Hawaiian history and culture on a sunset cruise out of Lahaina Harbor with Pacific Whale Foundation education director Merrill Kaufman telling the story. A long-time student of Hawaiian culture, language and hula, Kaufman supplies live narration about the history of Lahaina and the West Maui Mountains.

This two-hour sunset cocktail and appetizer cruise features Hawaiian music and traditional Hawaiian chant as well as a go at Hawaiian games and crafts. The appetizers are a blend of local-style dishes, including Fire Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, Kalua-Style Pork and Cabbage, Oven Roasted Hawaiian Sweet Potatoes, fresh Baked Maui Breadfruit with Herb Crust, Zesty Green Papaya Salad and Taro Chips with Tropical Fruit Salsa.

 

Beer, wine and mai tais are available to anyone with a valid i.d. This cruise is offered on a limited basis, so check with Pacific Whale Foundation for more information.

 

Friendly Charters offers a midweek cruise on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. The concert cruise includes live music, cocktails and light appetizers.

In addition to its Lahaina history tour, Pacific Whale Foundation offers three more sunset cruises. The first is the Kanikapila Sunset Cocktail Cruise aboard the double-deck catamaran Ocean Quest out of Lahaina Harbor. This relaxed cruise includes live entertainment, a bountiful appetizer menu and lots of aloha. During the winter months, you’re guaranteed to see whales, or get a free ticket on one of PWF’s whale watching trips.

 There also is a Sunset Cocktail Cruise out of Ma’alaea Harbor on the catamaran Ocean Voyager. Hot and cold appetizers are served.

 

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Travelling with Pets

July 18, 2011

 

When traveling with pets on your Maui vacation, the State of Hawaii follows some strict guidelines backed up by its Animal Quarantine Laws to continue keeping the islands free of rabies. The following list is only a partial summary of these guidelines. Please see the links at the bottom of the page for the complete guidelines when traveling with pets to Maui.

 1. All dogs and cats, regardless of age, must comply with Hawaii’s importation laws.

2. There is a 5-Day-Or-Less Program that must be followed in order for your pet to qualify for Direct Release.

3. If you are traveling with pets to Maui, you must first go through Honolulu International Airport in Oahu. Direct Release is only available at Honolulu International Airport. When your pet has been shown to have complied with the 5-Day-Or-Less Program rules and is eligible for Direct Release, you can then take your flight to Maui.

4. 5-Day-Or-Less Program includes two required rabies shots – the 1-year rabies vaccine not more than 12 months before entering Hawaii, and the 3-year rabies vaccine not more than 36 months before arriving in Hawaii. These two shots must be more than 90 days apart. The most recent vaccination must have occurred more than 90 days upon arrival in Hawaii. If the most recent vaccination occurred less than 90 days upon arrival, then the animal will be quarantined until the 90 days are completed.

5. Pets not meeting the strict 5-Day-Or-Less Program will be quarantined for up to 120 days upon arrival in Hawaii

6. Exceptions to the quarantine laws apply to only locations that have laws as strict or more strict than Hawaii (British Isles, Australia, Guam and New Zealand). These pets must have resided in one of these localities for at least six months and have complied with strict transportation guidelines.

7. Non-domestic dogs and cats are prohibited (e.g., wolf, wolf cross, et cetera).

8. The process to complete all preparations is lengthy so at minimum, puppies or kittens will be about 10 months old. If they don’t meet all of the requirements, they will be quarantined for up to 120 days.

9. If you are arriving on an international flight and traveling with pets, your pets will have to clear U.S. Customs (in addition to Hawaii’s 5-Day-Or-Less Program) before being released to you.

10. There is a $165 fee per pet that you must pay for Direct Release of your pet, or a $225 fee per pet for the 5-Day-Or-Less program.

11. For Guide Dogs and Service Dogs guidelines, please click here: Allowing Guide Dogs and Service Dogs to Enter Hawaii Without Quarantine

For a complete explanation of the 5-Day-Or-Less Program and Direct Release, please visit the following links at the State of Hawaii’s Department of Agriculture:Animal Quarantine Branch, Hawaii’s Animal Quarantine Laws and Checklist For 5-Day-Or-Less Program

 

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Take in some Dinner and Real Estate

July 14, 2011

Nestled in the heart of Wailea Resort, The Shops at Wailea is Maui’s premier shopping and dining destination, home to more than 70 distinct boutiques, shops, restaurants and galleries.

 Tommy Bahama’s Tropical Cafe has unusual, fabulously designed and prepared Pacific Rim style salads, seafood, steaks, chicken, desserts and more.  You can often enjoy live entertainment on the patio. Open for lunch and dinner. 

 Whether you’re looking for great Hawaii clothes or great Hawaii food, this is the place. Reservations: (808) 875 – 9983

 After your Dinner and entertainment take a stroll across the balcony and stop by Century 21 and Say hello. I can show you some of the great home and condo deals Maui has to offer.

 

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Snorkel Molokini

July 12, 2011

 

If you’re itching to try out your underwater gear in a place teeming with marine life, Molokini is a hot ticket stop. An ancient volcanic cinder cone appearing low on the horizon about 3 miles off Maui’s south shore, Molokini is a world-class snorkeling and diving location, which can be reached only by boat.

Maui’s tour boat companies make it easy to get there. Tours depart daily from Lahaina and Ma’alaea harbors for the short trip to this resource-laden wonderland.

 Molokini’s crescent, quarter-moon shape acts as a fortress that provides protection from waves and powerful currents. And its protected status as a marine life and bird conservation district gives shelter to about 250 species of fish, some of which are found nowhere else on earth, and a variety of marine life. Most days the water is crystal clear with more than 100 feet visibility. Expect to see humpback whales in season, green sea turtles, monk seals, eagle rays and sharks, as well as rainbow-colored fish and fascinating lava formations.

The island itself is off-limits to humans. It’s a bird sanctuary, and there’s no fishing in the marine sanctuary that surrounds the island. But divers and snorkelers are welcome to explore Molokini’s underwater refuge to their heart’s content. Do not feed the marine life, or approach sea turtles or seals.

Some people believe the best site is on the backside of the crater where the crowds tend to thin out and the back wall drops sharply to depths of 300 feet. In the center is a lush reef area with excellent viewing. Another favorite destination is Turtle Town, which is (you guessed it) the home of a large colony of Green Sea Turtles.

 Most boat companies make a party out of a trip to Molokini. They carry snorkeling and diving gear, provide instruction, offer breakfast or lunch and sometimes a bar. You can cruise abroad a catamaran, a powered raft or a sailboat.

 

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