Business Briefs

More than
25,000 outdated
directories recycled

Hawaiian Telcom Yellow Pages and its sales agent, The Berry Company LLC, along with schools on Hawaii Island, Kauai, Lanai, Maui and Molokai, collected nearly 40,000 pounds of outdated telephone directories for recycling through the fifth annual Think Yellow, Go Green program.

The month-long environmental awareness program was driven by strong community support and invited the local schools to compete to collect the most outdated directories for recycling. The schools had the opportunity to win cash prizes for their students’ participation in the program, and award amounts varied depending on the school’s location.

The Think Yellow, Go Green program creates an opportunity to teach students across the neighbor islands about the importance of recycling and giving reusable materials new life. Montessori Education Center of Hawaii, the school that collected the most outdated telephone directories on Hawaii Island, amassed nearly 2,900 outdated directories — and the school has an enrollment of 15 students, according to Hawaii Telecom Yellow Pages.

“Our school is proud to participate in such a unique recycling effort, and it shows what a difference a school with 15 enrolled students can make” said Summer Dwyer of the Montessori Education Center of Hawaii. “Our students learned a valuable life lesson about doing their part to protect the natural resources in our community. We look forward to surpassing our collection goal set for next year’s program.”

Hawaiian Telcom Yellow Pages and Berry teamed up with local food banks, including Hawaii Foodbank, Hawaii Foodbank — Kauai Branch, The Food Basket and the Maui Foodbank, to host a community food drive. By using heavier-weight delivery bags that can be reused, Hawaiian Telcom Yellow Pages and Berry encouraged the community to fill the bags with nonperishable food items and deliver them to the participating food banks.

After the close of the contest, the recycled telephone directories were shipped to Oahu for recycling. Hawaiian Telcom Yellow Pages are 100 percent recyclable, and the materials are converted into an array of new products, including building insulation, writing and copier papers, newsprint, paper towels and more.

For more information, visit ThinkYellowGoGreen.com.

Hawaiian nonprofit expands lending
on solar systems

At a recent nonprofit board meeting of the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, members approved the expansion of its photovoltaic loan product by increasing the loan limit and extending the loan term to 20 years.

“This is really exciting,” said Brett Nakoa, Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement loan officer. “The approval by our board will make residential solar even more accessible by Native Hawaiians, which is so important to reducing monthly utility expense and increasing net funds for families.”

The photovoltaic, or PV, loan package has a term for 20 years which significantly reduces monthly payments and interest rates range from four and six percent depending on your credit profile. Beneficiaries are able to take advantage of all federal and state taxes along with any other incentives that may be available. It’s important to note that this program has no down-payment requirement and the closing costs are minimal.

Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement is certified as a Native Community Development Financial Institution by the U.S. Treasury, one of only 75 in the country serving Native peoples. In Hawaii, Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement is the only Native Community Development Financial Institution with a statewide service area that primarily focuses on Hawaiian Home Lands where more than 30,000 Hawaiians reside.

Within the first week since approval of the new loan terms for PV, the nonprofit has approved over $100,000 in loans, adding to its $631,000 Solar PV and Solar Water portfolio.

“We really want our community to have choices and not be locked in to only leasing systems, but rather owning the system to reap the entire benefit of tax credits and reduced costs,” Nakoa said.

Interested applicants can email info@hawaiiancouncil.org or call Nakoa at 596-8155.

Local businesses donate $300K plus
to Nature Conservancy

With contributions from 61 businesses, The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii’s Corporate Council for the Environment raised more than $300,000 for local conservation in fiscal year 2013.

Dustin Sellers, president of ProService Hawaii and a TNC trustee, chairs the Corporate Council, which emphasizes the link between Hawaii’s environment and its economy. Since its launch in 1987, this coalition of local businesses has raised over $4 million to protect Hawaii’s natural resources.

Businesses that supported the Corporate Council at the leadership level of $10,000 or more are: Alaska Airlines, Alexander & Baldwin, ABC Stores, CDF Engineering LLC, Hawaiian Electric Co., Hawaiian Electric Industries, James Campbell Co., Macy’s Foundation, Outrigger Enterprises Group, ProService Hawaii, Skyline Eco-Adventures LLC, The Howard Hughes Corp. and The Shidler Family Foundation.

“Hawaii’s businesses are an invaluable partner in our work to protect our island home,” said Suzanne Case, TNC’s Hawaii executive director. “In difficult economic times, protecting the environment can get deferred, but these companies know the importance of the environment to Hawaii’s economy. Their vision and commitment help us protect the lands and waters that sustain Hawaii’s people, economy and island way of life.”

Since 1980, TNC has protected almost 200,000 acres of natural lands in Hawai‘i and works with other public and private landowners to protect the islands’ key watersheds. TNC manages a statewide network of 11 preserves and works in 12 coastal communities to protect the near-shore waters of the main Hawaiian Islands.

Alaska Airlines, TNC preserving coral reefs

Alaska Airlines and The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii are teaming up to restore near-shore coral reefs, which provide both recreation and sustenance to Hawaii’s residents and visitors.

During the month of August, for every Alaska Airlines mobile application downloaded, the airline will donate $1 to The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii, with a minimum contribution of $30,000.

The contribution will support the Conservancy’s work in Kaneohe Bay on Oahu, where two types of invasive algae are smothering the coral reefs. With help from the state Division of Aquatic Resources and University of Hawaii scientists, a restoration team is using innovative underwater vacuums called “Super Suckers” to clear the invasive seaweed off the reefs, and then seeding the reefs with native sea urchins that feed on the algae and keep it from growing back. Once home to some of the highest numbers and greatest diversity of reef fish and coral on Oahu, the bay is under assault from the algae, which forms thick, tangled mats that smother and kill coral. The Conservancy expects to clear the north end of Kaneohe Bay of harmful algae by 2015.

“The Nature Conservancy would like to thank Alaska Airlines for its generous support of our work to free Kaneohe Bay from the chokehold of invasive algae,” said Suzanne Case, the Conservancy’s Hawaii executive director. “They have an exemplary record as good stewards of the environment.”

Along with protecting Hawaii’s coral reefs, the partnership also aims to make Alaska Airlines a greener airline by encouraging customers to use Alaska’s mobile app instead of printing paper boarding passes. The vast majority of airports Alaska Airlines serves are equipped to accept electronic boarding passes. Customers can learn more and download Alaska Airlines’ apps for the iPhone and Android devices at alaskaair.com/mobile.

“Our commitment to Hawaii goes far beyond flying airplanes to and from the West Coast,” said Brad Tilden, president and CEO of Alaska Airlines. “We understand the contribution Hawaii’s environment makes to its economy and quality of life. That’s why we are proud to partner with The Nature Conservancy. Their work to restore Kaneohe Bay and protect the state’s environment benefits future generations of residents and visitors alike.”

Alaska Airlines has been a strong supporter of The Nature Conservancy for 24 years and has been a member of the Hawaii chapter’s Corporate Council for the Environment since 2011. The council is a statewide group of business leaders who recognize the vital link between Hawaii’s environment and its economy.

The carrier has made significant strides in reducing its impact on the environment in recent years. Last week, Alaska Airlines became the first airline to sign an agreement with Hawaii BioEnergy LLC to purchase sustainable biofuel for its Hawaii flights.

Seminar teaches about starting small businesses

Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union is holding a free educational seminar on “How To Start A Small Business In Hawaii” from 9:30 a.m. to noon Aug. 10 at the John Y. Iwane Credit Union Center Training Room in the Kaloko Facility.

The seminar will be presented by Hazel Beck, West Hawaii center director for the Hawaii Small Business Development Center Network. Beck received her bachelor’s degree in business management from Hiram College in Hiram, Ohio. She has a background in business consulting focusing on global manufacturing companies with particular emphasis on supply chain management, cost reduction, process re-engineering and business practices. She has worked with clients in aerospace, automotive, telecommunications, semi‐conductor, electronics and retail sectors.

The seminar will present easy-to understand topics, including “What is entrepreneurship?,” “Why is a market analysis important?,” “Which business process is right for me?,” and “How much capital do I need?” Participants will also learn how to develop a business plan. They’ll also get tips and learn how to avoid pitfalls.

To register or for additional information, contact the HCFCU Call Center at 930-7700 or marketing@hicommfcu.com. Seating is limited.

Hawaiian Airlines increases capacity
to Tahiti

Hawaiian Airlines is responding to the increased demand for its service to Papeete, Tahiti, by changing aircraft on the route from the 264-seat Boeing 767-300ER to its 294-seat Airbus A330-200, adding 30 more seats to the weekly service.

The change will be made effective Nov. 2, the airline said.

In addition to increased capacity, Hawaiian Airlines is also adjusting its flight schedule on the Papeete route with departure and arrival times moved one hour earlier. Beginning Nov. 2, Hawaiian Airlines Flight HA 481 will depart Honolulu International Airport at 3:35 p.m. every Saturday, and land at Faa‘a International Airport at 9:30 p.m. The return Flight HA 482 will depart Papeete at 11:30 p.m. every Saturday and will arrive in Honolulu at 5:15 a.m. the following morning on Sunday.

The new flight schedule also allows travelers to board the popular Paul Gauguin Cruise Ships in Tahiti.

– MOVERS & SHAKERS –

Three physician specialists join Kaiser Permanente Hawaii

Kaiser Permanente Hawaii recently announced the addition of three new physicians who join over 500 physicians and providers of the Hawaii Permanente Medical Group, the state’s largest multi-specialty medical group, providing comprehensive care to Kaiser Permanente’s 227,000-plus members. New physicians include Erika Kwock, a specialist in obstetrics/gynecology practicing at the Waipio Clinic on Oahu; Tony Clinton, a specialist in dermatology who will be practicing at the Wailuku Clinic on Maui; and James Bingham, who joins the Kona Clinic as a family medicine physician.

Kwock earned her medical degree from the University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine and completed her residency at Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Program. She earned her master’s degree of Public Health in Social and Behavioral Health Sciences from the University of Hawaii and is a member of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Clinton earned his medical degree from Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences in Bethesda, Md. He completed his residency in dermatology at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, Calif. He most recently worked at Kenner Dermatology Center at the Castle Medical Center on Oahu. Clinton is board certified by the American Board of Dermatology and is a fellow with the American Academy of Dermatology.

James Bingham earned his medical degree from the University of Washington in Seattle and completed his residency in family medicine at Providence Medical Center at the University of Washington. He is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and most recently served as a staff physician at Group Health Cooperative Riverfront Medical Center, a Kaiser Permanente affiliate in Spokane, Wash.

Lagapa promoted to continuing care
senior director

Kaiser Permanente Hawaii recently announced Dionicia Lagapa, a 25-year nursing employee, is the senior director of continuing care and will lead the division responsible for day-to-day patient care services statewide. She assumes her new position Sept. 1.

Lagapa, a licensed advanced practice registered nurse and certified family nurse practitioner, will collaborate with the executive leadership of Kaiser Permanente Hawaii to develop strategies and implement programs and policies that continue the delivery of high quality, integrated health care for patients throughout the state.

Lagapa currently serves as area clinics manager for Kaiser Permanente Hawaii, a position she has held since 2007 with responsibility covering the Windward, Leeward, After-Hours Care, and Advice clinics and the more than 200 employees working at these locations. In addition, since 2005 she has served as an adjunct member of the Clinical Faculty for the School of Nursing Graduate Program at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

Lagapa began her nursing career with Kaiser Permanente Hawaii in 1988 while attending college and has held supervisor positions in various capacities over the past decade. Lagapa earned her bachelor of science degree in nursing from Hawaii Loa College in 1991, and her master’s of science degree in nursing with emphasis as a family nurse practitioner from the University of Hawaii at Manoa in 1995. She is a graduate of Sacred Hearts Academy in Honolulu.

Harada overseeing bank’s loan operations

Central Pacific Bank has promoted Mel Harada to senior vice president and division manager of loan operations. In his new position, Harada is responsible for the management of the bank’s loan operations, which includes consumer, residential, small business, commercial and shared national credits.

Harada has 30 years of banking experience and has been with Central Pacific Bank since 2011, previously serving as vice president and loan servicing manager, as well as compliance and risk manager of loan operations.

Prior to joining Central Pacific Bank, Harada served as senior vice president and retail credit manager at Bank of Hawaii. Harada has a bachelor’s degree in English from University of Hawaii at Manoa.

Matsumoto promoted to bank controller

Central Pacific Bank has promoted Dayna Matsumoto to vice president and controller.

In her new position, Matsumoto is responsible for overseeing all aspects of accounting, financial management, and reporting processes. Her responsibilities also include overseeing the tax compliance function and developing financial forecasts and corporate strategies.

Matsumoto joined Central Pacific Bank in 2006 and previously served as vice president and asset/liability manager. Prior to joining Central Pacific Bank, Matsumoto served as senior associate at KPMG LLP, a national audit, tax and financial advisory firm.

Matsumoto has a bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting and finance from University of Hawaii at Manoa, and a master’s degree of business administration from Hawaii Pacific University. Matsumoto holds the certified public accountant designation. She also volunteers with Junior Achievement and Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

Waikoloa B&B
earns accolades

Lava Lava Beach Club at Anaehoomalu Bay has been selected as a Top 10 Beach B&B by BedandBreakfast.com.

Lava Lava Beach Club is recognized as a top inn around the world providing the best travel experience in this category. BedandBreakfast.com is a comprehensive global site for finding bed and breakfast properties around the world, with more than 13,000 properties worldwide representing nearly 80,000 rooms.

Each November, BedandBreakfast.com names 30 overall top inns based on the quality and quantity of traveler reviews from the past year. Starting in December 2011, BedandBreakfast.com decided to recognize more of the world’s best inns and began a monthly awards program to honor 10 more B&Bs every month in a special category.

“These award-winning inns, including Lava Lava Beach Club, really showcase bed and breakfasts and inns that often become a destination to discover, and not just a place to stay,” said Gregory Sion, general manager of BedandBreakfast.com. “Travelers select bed and breakfasts because they enjoy staying in a one-of-a-kind place that offers not only character, special amenities and unmatched hospitality, but also enables them to discover new experiences.”

To see a complete list of the award winners, visit bedandbreakfast.com/travelers/awards.