HONOLULU February 17, 2010 – go! Mokulele today reported preliminary traffic figures for January 2010 and noted it generated 11.24 million available seat miles and 6.89 million revenue passenger miles versus 13.28 million available seat miles and 8.58 million revenue passenger miles in January 2009. go! Mokulele recorded a 61.26 percent load factor compared to 64.60 percent for the same period in 2009 while passenger enplanements were 50,325 compared to 58,216 passengers carried in January 2009. go! Mokulele recorded an 82.3 percent on time performance for January 2009.

January  Results                             Jan-10                       Jan-09               Change                

Revenue Passenger Miles (000)         6,888                         8,581                 -19.73%               

Available Seat Miles (000)                 11,243                       13,283               -15.36%               

Passengers Carried                          50,325                       58,216               -13.55%               

Load Factor                                     61.26%                      64.60%                 (3.3) pts

Year-to-date Results                        YTD 10                      YTD 09              Change                

Revenue Passenger Miles (000)         6,888                         8,581                 -19.73%               

Available Seat Miles (000)                 11,243                       13,283               -15.36%               

Passengers Carried                          50,325                       58,216               -13.55%               

Load Factor                                     61.26%                      64.60%                 (3.3) pts

Paul Skellon, Vice President go! said, “ While January is typically a quiet month for travel, the decline in visitors coming to Hawaii is also reflected in reduced demand for inter-island travel compared to the previous year.” Mr. Skellon continued, “We are now seeing an encouraging demand for travel in the coming months as people make plans for Spring Break, the Merrie Monarch festival and the Easter Holidays.”

Mesa Air Group Chairman and CEO, Jonathan Ornstein said, “We are cautiously optimistic that as confidence returns to the travel market in 2010, our convenient schedules and low fares will continue to make an important contribution to the growth and development of tourism and business throughout Hawaii.”  Mr. Ornstein added, “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people of Hawaii for their continued support and our partners and all the team at go! Mokulele for their commitment and hard work.” 

Mesa currently operates 120 aircraft with over 650 daily system departures to 126 cities, 41 states, Canada and Mexico. Mesa operates as Delta Connection, US Airways Express and United Express under contractual agreements with Delta Air Lines, US Airways and United Airlines, respectively. In June 2006 Mesa launched inter-island Hawaiian service as go! and in October 2009 formed a joint-venture with Mokulele Airlines. The go! Mokulele operation links Honolulu to the neighbor island airports of Hilo, Kahului, Kona, Ho’olehua and Lihue. The Company, founded by Larry and Janie Risley in New Mexico in 1982, has approximately 3,500 employees.

This press release contains various forward-looking statements that are based on management's beliefs, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to management. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable; it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Such statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, estimated, projected or expected.

HONOLULU January 20, 2010 – go! Mokulele announced preliminary traffic from its joint-venture operations for December 2009. The combined operations generated 12.48 million available seat miles and 8.20 million revenue passenger miles versus 13.23 million available seat miles and 8.89 million revenue passenger miles in December 2008. go! Mokulele recorded a 65.55 percent load factor compared to 67.12 percent for the same period in 2008 while passenger enplanements were 59,857, a 1.74 percent increase over the 58,833 passengers carried in December 2008. go! Mokulele recorded a 77 percent on time performance for December 2009.

December Results                           Dec-09      Dec-08    Change  

Revenue Passenger Miles (000)           8,183        8,881     -7.86%                 

Available Seat Miles (000)                 12,484       13,232     -5.65%                 

Passengers Carried                           59,857      58,833       1.74%                  

Load Factor                                      65.55%      67.12%     (1.6) pts                                                                                                       

Year-to-date Results                        YTD 09        YTD 08    Change 

Revenue Passenger Miles (000)          102,099       116,294     -12.21%               

Available Seat Miles (000)                  152,477        171,896    -11.30%               

Passengers Carried                           714,575        796,507    -10.29%               

Load Factor                                       66.96%        67.65%     (0.7) pts

Paul Skellon, Vice President go! Mokulele said, “We are delighted with the synergies and benefits resulting from our recent joint-venture agreement between go! and Mokulele.” Mr. Skellon continued, “Both brands continue to perform well and have demonstrated they compliment each other nicely.”

“Mesa Air Group Chairman and CEO, Jonathan Ornstein said, “I am cautiously optimistic that as confidence returns to the travel market in 2010 our convenient schedules and low fares will continue to make an important contribution to the growth and development of tourism and business throughout Hawaii.”  Mr. Ornstein added,” I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people of Hawaii for their continued support and wish them, our partners and all the team at go! Mokulele, a safe, prosperous 2010.”

Mesa currently operates 130 aircraft with approximately 700 daily system departures to 127 cities, 41 states, Canada and Mexico. Mesa operates as Delta Connection, US Airways Express and United Express under contractual agreements with Delta Air Lines, US Airways and United Airlines, respectively, and independently as go! Mokulele. This operation links Honolulu to the neighbor island airports of Hilo, Kona, Kahului, Ho’olehua and Lihue. The Company, founded by Larry and Janie Risley in New Mexico in 1982, has approximately 3,500 employees.

This press release contains various forward-looking statements that are based on management's beliefs, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to management. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable; it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Such statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, estimated, projected or expected.

For further information please contact:

Paul Skellon
Vice President go! Mokulele

Tel. + 808 838 7900

LOOKS

Aloha, Progressive 

The struggle between modern and old is something Hawaii residents feel daily. Yet, it’s within this clash that the true beauty of this land emerges.  

After all, cultural evolution gives the people of Hawaii the ability to create. Whether it be, in a fashion house like Sig Zane, or cultivating community sustainable food like MA’O Farms. Although in completely different industries, both locally owned brands take traditional concepts and put fresh a perspective that empowers youth. 

Hawaii inspires both fashion and nature, and will continue growing by nurturing future generations. 
 

Mahina is blinging in assorted CLOTH jewels, a Tiffany Canonigo and stylist ti leaf mini, and black mesh belt by Philip Lim 3.1.

Akea in a Sig Zane Po dark blue Nfall Moekahilaulii shirt, Four Star Indigo Denim from  APB Skate, Oakley Frog Skin from Soltice and stylist’s hat.

Saisha is popin’ her collar in a black Sig Zane Kehaukea buttondown, a Paradisus silver Lauhala cuff, Rene’s vintage chandelier earrings and stylist’s belt.

Saisha is glowing in a bandeau by CLOTH and stylist, multiple Paradisus silver dog tags, black silk CLOTH pants and stylist’s suspenders.

Akea is a vision of old and new in a navy malo, Tiffany Canonigo stripe tie and black leather belt and stylist’s hat. 

Click to Book go Mokulele Flight

INNOV8 EVENTS -  JANUARY :: FEBRUARY

Oahu Events ::

EAST-WEST CENTER 50TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER

Date: January 9th 2010

Place: Hilton Hawaiian Village 2005 Kalia Road, Honolulu

Cost: Individual tickets $250, Preminum tables of 10 $2,500 - $50,000

Contact: call (808) 944-7105
or visit www.EastWestCenter.org/giving.

SONY OPEN IN HAWAII

Date: January 11th 2010

Place: WAIALAE COUNTRY CLUB 4997 Kahala Ave. Honolulu

Cost: $15 preselae, $20 at the gate

Contact: Waialae Pro Golf Shop - Phone: (808) 732-1457

BILL COSBY

Date: January 15th, 2010

Place: Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall, 777 Ward Avenue, Honolulu

Time: 6:30pm

Contact: www.ticketmaster.com

ONCE-A-MONTH PUNK

Date: January 16th, 2010 Show starts at 10pm

Place: Waikiki Sand Box 2260 Kuhio Ave. Honolulu,

Cost: 21+ only, $10 cover 

NIGHT MARKET AT ALOHA TOWER

Date: January 20th 2010

Place: The Waterfront, 1 Aloha Tower Drive, Aloha Tower Marketplace, Honolulu

Cost: Free

Contact: Email: info@eventsatthetower.com Phone: 808-545-5900

CACAO FESTIVAL (Chocolate Recipe Contest & Tastings)

Date: Sunday January 31st, 2010

Place:  Waialua Estate Coffee & Chocolate

Description: guest judges including - chocolatier Melanie Boudar and food-writer Martha Chang evaluating five categories: confections, baked goods, savory, Hawaiian grown chocolate and keiki) Chef Demos, Book Signing, mini tour to Cacao Orchards, Nutritional Counseling, Educational booths, face-painting, and arts & crafts for the kids. Join us for a day of chocolaty fun!

BEGINNERS BALLROOM, LATIN, SWING CLASS

Date: Tuesday, February 02, 2010 7pm -9pm

Place: Starstruck Studios 805 Ahukini St Honolulu,

Contact: Email: starstruck.studios@live.com

Phone: 808-395-0976

HAWAII SLAMS FIRST THURSDAYS SLAM POETRY COMPETITION

Date: February 4th, 2010 at 8:30pm – 11:30pm

Place: Pipeline Café 805 Pohukaina St. Honolulu

Cost: $3 before 8:30pm, $5 after

Contact: Kealoha 808-387-9664 info@HawaiiSlam.com

ONG KING ARTS CENTER FIRST FRIDAY

Date: Friday February 5th, 2010, 5pm- 2am

Place: Ong King Arts Center 184 N. King St. Honolulu,

Cost: $10

Contact: Email: see@ongking.com Phone: 808-428-3233

THE WHITE SNAKE

Date: February 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13 at 8pm / February 7th,14th at 2pm

Place: University of Hawaii, Manoa Kennedy Theatre, 1770 E West Road, Honolulu

Cost: $18 Advance, $22 Regular; $20 Seniors & Military & UH Faculty/Staff, $15 Students

Contact: Phone: (808) 956-7655

BRIAN MCKNIGHT

Date: February 14th, 2010, Show starts at 7pm

Place: Neal S. Blaisdell Concert Hall, 777 Ward Avenue, Honolulu

Contact: www.ticketmaster.com Phone: 808-591-2211

WAIKIKI ARTFEST

Date: Saturday, February 27, 2010 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Place: Kapiolani Park Kalakaua Ave. & Monsaratt Ave. Honolulu

Contact: Nancy Calhoun Email: tropicalcottons@aol.com Phone: (808)696-6717

Haleiwa Farmers Market :: Ongoing

Date: Every Sunday (9am - 1pm)

Place: Haleiwa, North Shore

Contact: www.haleiwafarmersmarket.com

EcoLounge :: Ongoing

Date: Every Third Thursday

Place: Indigo (Chinatown)

Contact: www.honuguide.com/ecolounge

Lulu’s Unplugged :: Ongoing

Every Friday at Lulu’s Waikiki

Local progressive bands play for FREE

For more information visit luluswaikiki.com

Surf Happenings :: Oahu

VOLCOM-PUFFERFISH OAHU

Date: January 23rd, 2010

Place: Maile Point, Oahu

VOLCOM-PUFFERFISH BIG ISLAND

Date: February 13th 2010

Place: Banyans, Big Island - Hawaii

Maui Events ::

STAND UP FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH AND FITNESS

Date: Saturday, January 9th, 2010, 8am to 2pm

Place: Wailea's Ulua Beach, In front of the Four Seasons on the beach

Contact: Contact: Suzie Cooney Phone: 808-283-2121 Email: Suzie@SuzieTrainsMaui.com

Kumu Kahua Theater: "Voices from Okinawa"

Date: Friday, January 15th, 2010 to Saturday, January 16th, 2010

Time: 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm

Place: Maui Arts and Cultural Center

Contact: 808-242-7469 box office

NEW SHANGHAI CIRCUS

Date: Monday, January 18th, 2010 Showtimes at 4pm and 7:30pm

Place: Maui Arts and Cultural Center

Contact: 808-242-7469 box office

2nd Annual Maui Oceanfront Marathon

Date: Sunday, January 24th, 2010

Place: Starting in Wailea ending Kamehameha Iki Park

Contact: http://www.mauioceanfrontmarathon.com/

MAKANA IN CONCERT

Date: Saturday, February 27th, 2010

Place: Maui Arts & Cultural Center, McCoy Studio Theater

Contact: 808-242-7469 box office

Big Island Events ::

HAWAI'IANA LIVE

Date: Wednesday Mornings 11am-12pm

Place: Palace Theater, Hilo

Contact: 808-934-7010

KOKUA KAILUA

Date: January 17th, 2010 1pm-6pm

Place: Kailua Village

Contact: call 808-936-9202, email dorlenechao@yahoo.com or visit www.kvbid.org

NA MEA HAWAI'I HULA KAHIKO PERFORMANCE

Date: January 23, 2010 9:30am-2pm

Place: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Cost: free

Contact: Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

BOBFEST

Date: February 7th, 2010, 12pm to 6:00 PM

Place: Mo'oheau Park & Bandstand in Hilo

Contact: 808/216-7372, email bobfestagfair@gmail.com or visit www.myspace.com/bobfestagfair

3rd ANNUAL HAWAII ISLAND CHINESE FILM FESTIVAL

Date: February 13, 2010

Place: Palace Theater in downtown Hilo

Time: 7pm

Contact: (808) 933-9772, visit www.poshfestivals.com or email amooninfo@bigisland.com

South Kona Green Market :: Ongoing

Date: Every Sunday (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) 

Place: Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethno Botanical Gardens in Captain Cook.

Contact:  www.skgm.org.

Kauai Events ::

KAUAI COMMUNITY MARKET

Date: Saturdays 10am-1pm

Place: Kauai Community College Front Parking Lot

Contact: Melissa McFerrin Phone: (808) 652-3217 Fax: (808) 337-9944

CONCERT PIANIST ALPIN HONG

Date: January 24th, 2010 from 3pm-6pm

Location: Kauai Community College Performing Arts Center

Cost: Adults $20 / Students $10

Contact: Kauai Concert Association Phone: (808) 245-7464

WAIMEA TOWN CELEBRATION

Date: Friday, February 19^th 4:30-11pm // Saturday 20^th 10am-11pm

Place: Waimea Town

Contact: Mark Nellis Phone: (808) 651-3368 http://www.wkbpa.org/events.html

E Pili Kakou I Ho`okahi Lahui

Date: February 26, 27, 28th from 9am-9pm

Place: Hilton Kauai Beach Resort

Cost: Free

Contact: Blaine Kia - Phone: (808) 358-7656

go! Events ::

THE USED

Where: Pipeline Cafe, 805 Pohukaina Street Honolulu, HI 96813

When: Friday, January 8, 2010

Doors: 7:00 PM

Show: 8:00 PM

Prices: $30 GA  $60 VIP

BROTHER ALI

Where: Pipeline Cafe, 805 Pohukaina Street Honolulu, HI 96813

When: Friday, January 22, 2010

Doors: 7:00 PM

Show: 8:00 PM

Prices: $25 GA   $50 VIP

LEGENDARY SOUL SINGER AL GREEN

Where: Blaisdell Arena, 777 Ward Avenue Honolulu, Hawaii 96814

When: Saturday, January 23, 2010

Doors: 7:00 PM

Show: 8:00 PM

Prices: $99.50, $79.50, $69.50, $49.50

ANDREW BIRD

Where: Pipeline Cafe, 805 Pohukaina Street Honolulu, HI 96813

When: Saturday, February 6, 2010

Doors: 7:00 PM

Show: 8:00 PM

Ages: 18+

Prices: $25 GA   $50 VIP

 MATISYAHU HAWAIIAN ISLAND TOUR

OAHU

Where: Pipeline Cafe,  805 Pohukaina Street Honolulu, HI 96813

When: Thursday, February 25, 2010

Doors: 7:00PM

Show: 8:00PM

Prices: $29 General Admission $65 VIP

KAUAI

Where: Kauai Kuhio Lounge

When: Saturday, February 27, 2010

Prices: $35 General Admission

BIG ISLAND

Where: Kona Rockstarz, 745484 Kaiwi Street Suite A120, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

When: Monday, March 1, 2010

Prices: $40 General Admission

COMEDIAN HAL SPARKS

 Where: Pipeline Cafe, 805 Pohukaina Street Honolulu, HI 96813

When: Sunday, February 28, 2009

Doors: 7:00 PM

Show: 8:00 PM

Prices: $30 GA  $55 VIP

SHINEDOWN

Where: Pipeline Cafe, 805 Pohukaina Street Honolulu, HI 96813

When: Saturday, March 6, 2010

Doors: 7:00 PM

Show: 8:00 PM

Ages: 18+

Prices: $30 GA $60 VIP

Tickets: www.bampproject.com 

Click to Book go Mokulele Flight

go! Mokulele Hawaii’s Low Fare Airline Reports November 2009 Traffic

Honolulu, December 14, 2009 – go! Mokulele today reported preliminary traffic figures for November 2009 and noted it generated 11.69 million available seat miles and 8.04 million revenue passenger miles versus 12.74 million available seat miles and 8.14 million revenue passenger miles in November 2008.  go! recorded a 68.75 percent load factor compared to 63.86 percent for the same period in 2008 while passenger enplanements were 55,996, a 0.73 percent increase over the 55,591 passengers carried in November 2008.

Paul Skellon, Vice President go! said, “While year over year passenger numbers were predictably up following our recent joint venture agreement with Mokulele Airlines, prudent matching of capacity with demand remains a focus for us.” Mr. Skellon added, “I would like to thank everyone on the team for their dedication in bringing about this exciting merger in record time.”

Mesa Air Group Chairman and CEO, Jonathan Ornstein said, “In spite of the impact that the current economic climate has had on Hawaii’s tourism industry, I remain optimistic that as conditions improve, go! Mokulele is well positioned to succeed as Hawaii’s only low cost carrier.” Mr. Ornstein continued, “Each of us at go! Mokulele reaffirm our commitment to serving the people and businesses of Hawaii with friendly, convenient service and affordable air fares. We thank you for your business and continued support and extend the warmest holiday greetings to each of our customers and partners.”

go! Home for the Holidays with our special low fares. Fares begin at $58* each-way (not including government taxes and fees, restrictions apply). With up to 108 daily flights, easily share in the special moments of the season without breaking your holiday budget. Visit www.iflygo.com for details.

Mesa currently operates 133 aircraft with over 800 daily system departures to 128 cities, 39 states, Canada and Mexico. Mesa operates as Delta Connection, US Airways Express and United Express under contractual agreements with Delta Air Lines, US Airways and United Airlines, respectively, and independently as Mesa Airlines. In June 2006 Mesa launched inter-island Hawaiian service as go! and in October 2009 formed a joint-venture with Mokulele Airlines. The go! Mokulele operation links Honolulu to the neighbor island airports of Hilo, Kahului, Kona and Lihue. The Company, founded by Larry and Janie Risley in New Mexico in 1982, has approximately 5,000 employees and was awarded Regional Airline of the Year by Air Transport World magazine in 1992 and 2005. Mesa is a member of the Regional Airline Association and Regional Aviation Partners.

*Special fares start from $58 and are available only in select markets. Seats are limited and fares may not be available on all flights. Special fares are valid per segment. A segment is defined as one takeoff and one landing.  Tickets may be purchased 10 months in advance. Special fares must be purchased online via iflygo.com and cost $5 more if purchased by telephone. Tickets are nontransferable and nonrefundable. Changes can be made prior to scheduled departure for a fee of $20 per person plus any applicable difference in airfare. Fares displayed do not include September 11th Security Fees of up to $5 each way and a Federal Segment Excise Tax of $3.60 per segment. All taxes and fees must be paid at the time of purchase. Flights operated by Mesa Airlines doing business as go! Mokulele. Fares are not valid on go!Express flights operated by Hawaii Island Air. Passengers may check their 1st bag for $10 and their 2nd for $17. Other restrictions apply.

This press release contains various forward-looking statements that are based on management's beliefs, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to management. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable; it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Such statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, estimated, projected or expected.

For further information please contact:

Paul Skellon
Vice President go!

Tel. + 808 838 7900

paul.skellon@iflygo.com

www.iflygo.com

Aloha, 

As you may have heard, Mesa Air Group recently announced it has sought protection under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. We would like to provide you with additional information regarding this financial restructuring and what it means for go! Mokulele. 

go! has served the Hawaii inter-island market for over three years. We remain fully committed to continuing these services uninterrupted for years to come. Mesa provides regional jet services to go! Mokulele under a fight services agreement. The joint venture itself is its own separate entity and is not included in the Mesa Chapter 11 proceedings. 

On behalf of Mesa Airlines, I want to emphasize our commitment to the go! Mokulele operation and assure you that go! Mokulele is operating its full flight schedule. Tickets will be sold and honored, all terms and conditions governing tickets purchased remain the same, our frequent flyer program remains intact, and we intend to continue to service you with the low cost, high quality service you have come to rely on. In fact, this restructuring will be virtually unnoticeable to you! 

Importantly, Mesa Air Group and its subsidiaries are not going out of business. Chapter 11 means reorganization, not liquidation. In fact, Mesa took this action to preserve the business. The Company will continue to operate its business uninterrupted. 

Mesa has sufficient cash to continue funding its day-to-day and ongoing operations, and I and the rest of Mesa’s management team are committed to its long-term future. This future includes continued, uninterrupted service to go! Mokulele. 

Understandably, you may be wondering how and why this happened. Over the past two years, we have worked closely with our lessors, creditors and other constituents to restructure our financial obligations. These efforts have led to the elimination of over $160 million of debt obligations, the return of a number of aircraft, and the restructuring of inventory management and engine overhaul agreements. We are nonetheless faced with an untenable financial situation resulting primarily from our continued lease obligations on aircraft excess to our current requirements. After careful consideration, the Company determined that a Chapter 11 filing provides the most effective and efficient means to restructure with minimal impact on the business and our customers. This process will allow us to eliminate excess aircraft to better match our needs and give us the flexibility to align our business model to the changing regional airline marketplace, ensuring a leaner and more competitive company poised for future success. 

You have our commitment that we will continue to update you throughout this process. Moreover, we invite you to visit the special reorganization section of the website www.mesa-air.com/restructuring. We truly value your business and are committed to meeting your travel needs – now and in the future. 

Regards, 

Jonathan G. Ornstein 
Chairman and Chief Executive 
Mesa Air Group 

Customer Q&A

GIVING BACK

Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund

Words :: Kirsten Whatley

“On your way back, you scan the sand for baby turtles emerging from another nest, instinctively trying to reach their saltwater home”

Ensuring that Hawai‘i’s endangered sea life has a future means making sure they get off to a good start. This a primary focus of the Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund (HWF). They help caretake the fragile ecosystems ringing the islands of Maui and the Big Island, and the creatures that live there— including critically endangered species such as the Hawaiian monk seal and hawksbill sea turtle. Started in 1996 by two former National Marine Fisheries Service scientists, Bill Gilmartin and Hannah Bernard, the HWF added Cheryl King to their team in 2000, where she spearheads the hawksbill nesting monitoring program on Maui.

In addition to the volunteer projects described below, Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund encourages snorkelers and divers on all islands to report hawksbill sightings for their database of near-shore turtle populations. Hawksbills live right alongside the more common green sea turtle (honu in Hawaiian), but there are visible differences—see www.wildhawaii.org for details. And if you have an underwater camera, taking pictures is the best for documenting a hawksbill sighting, while recording location, date, time, water depth, habitat type, behavior, reaction to you, along with other relevant information. Visit the HWF website for more, or contact Cheryl directly at (808) 385-5464.

___________________________________________________________

Give-Back Location: Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund, Maui

Sleeping on the beach has its lures—star-laden skies, sand in your hair, the lullaby of waves tumbling at the foot of your bed. Then the alarm goes off and you’re up again. It’s 2:00 a.m., and time to do another beach walk in search of a nesting hawksbill turtle—she’ll be appearing at the same place she has returned to every few years for a decade now.

On your way back, you scan the sand for baby turtles emerging from another nest, instinctively trying to reach their saltwater home. Not yet. You reset the alarm and lean back against a cushion of sand, breathing in the seaweed air, knowing that protecting these creatures from predators, and redirecting them away from lights and toward the ocean, gives your camping experience true purpose.

For those of you more prone to sun seeking than night vision, you can join the Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund response team that watches over Hawaiian monk seals when they haul out onto Maui’s beaches. You’ll take turns guarding a taped-off zone around the lounging seal, while educating onlookers about these glorious creatures and their behaviors.

On regular occasions, the HWF also takes to the shores with gloves and trash bags, picking up litter where it doesn’t belong. And they run Makai Watch, where you can help trained naturalists spread the good word of respecting the marine environment.

Contact: E-mail preferred.

Hannah Bernard

Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund

P.O. Box 790637

Pa‘ia, HI 96779

(808) 280-8124

wild@aloha.net

www.wildhawaii.org

(For HWF beach cleanup projects on the Big Island, go to www.preservehawaii.org, click on Find Volunteer Opportunities, then “Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund” under Hawai‘i Island.)

This article is adapted from Preserving Paradise: Opportunities in Volunteering for Hawaii’s Environment. Courtesy of Island Heritage Publishing.

Click to Book go Mokulele Flight

DISCOVER KAILUA

Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks 

Kayak Tours Oahu

The windward side of Oahu is a hidden gem that many visitors to Hawaii rarely get a chance to see.  Kailua Bay offers miles of remote, white sandy beaches with gentle surf and pristine turquoise water.  Just around the corner sits Lanikai Beach, voted one of the Top 10 Beaches in the world; lying just offshore sit the Mokulua Islands, creating an unforgettable view of this tropical paradise. 

One of the best ways to explore this area up close is by kayak.  Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks offers guided eco-tours of the area and provide everything you need for a one-of-a-kind adventure.  “There are no hotels here so generally, Kailua and Lanikai are locals’ beaches.  Visitors feel it’s a huge adventure to get out to the Mokulua Islands … to leave a main Hawaiian island and paddle off to an off-shore island is truly a unique experience,” says long-time tour guide, Steve Haumschild. 

 “The standard four-hour, guided eco-tour is more than shuttling visitors out to the different islands. We try to teach people about the culture, history, geology and vulcanology of the area so when they leave, they learn more about the ocean and hopefully gain a little more respect for the ocean and its creatures, all the while enjoying the natural beauty of Hawaii,” says Haumschild. 

The eco-tour caters to all levels of kayakers- from beginners to advanced paddlers.  Expert guides keep a relaxed pace so visitors can enjoy the view while gliding along the calm and clear protected waters of Kailua Bay.  Mellow waves allow visitors to gently surf their way to a picture perfect landing onto the beach at Mokunui, the larger of the two islands.  Both islands are protected seabird sanctuaries and upon arrival, visitors are first informed about the islands’ fragile ecosystem and protected wildlife, particularly the nesting Wedgetail Shearwaters.  They also learn how to explore the area without impacting the environment.  

The 20 minute eco-tour includes rock crab and fish sightings and a brief lesson on how the Hawaiian Island chain was formed.  The back of the island reveals beautiful tide pools teaming with endemic creatures, sea salt, the famous Dog’s Head land formation and endless ocean views.  Humpback whale sightings are common during the winter months.  For many, a dip into one of the larger tide pools is the highlight of the day.  One visitor recalled, “jumping into the tide pool was the coolest thing we did … Queen’s Bath, as they call it, where you could just completely float on the water’s surface … like having your own private Jacuzzi with a view of the ocean.” 

After the brief hike, kayakers are treated to a well-deserved lunch.  It’s the perfect opportunity to relax and soak up the surroundings before heading back to the main island.  Once you try it you will realize that kayaking to the Mokulua Islands is the perfect way to explore this hidden slice of paradise! 

Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks has been a water sports authority in Hawaii for over 25 years.  Their award-winning Hawaiian Kayaking Adventure is led by a team of certified professional guides and instructors, dedicated to upholding the highest standards of eco-tourism and eco-friendly practices in Hawaii.  The company prides itself on being the safest and most professional in the industry with a team of guides experienced in ecology, history, vulcanology and marine biology.  Discover their favorite ‘secret’ spots throughout the bay where you’ll experience deserted islands, marine life, sea birds, great snorkeling, kayak surfing, hidden tide pools and secluded coves.   

Beyond paddling, Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks also specializes in kayak rentals, windsurfing, kite surfing, surfing, body boarding, snorkeling, bicycling and stand-up paddling.  Experience the natural beauty of Hawaii while participating in your favorite water sport.  The only impact you’ll leave behind is your own footprints in the sand! 

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ARTS

Solomon Enos

" I am trying to continue the work of my ancestors by engaging new forms of media to share their stories with the world"

Solomon Enos’ first commission was as a 6th grader at Makaha Elementary School for a 5th grade curriculum project. After that, he continued to do small commissions, and had his first exhibit at a Waiÿanae community festival when he was 21. Solomon currently resides in Nu`uanu with his family. Drawing much of his inspiration from both his yohana and the land around him, Solomon hopes to translate the deeper meanings of his culture to the world.

Where were you born?

I was born in Honolulu and raised Makaha.

How does your sense of place influence your art?

I am perpetually absorbing information, both historic and current, and attempting to translate that through my work. It is a way to try and understand how my ancestors perceived reality.

What is the inspiration for your art?
At the most basic level, simply the creation of art is in itself something that excites me. Coupled with that  the idea that I can possibly change realty with concepts that I can help translate through my work.

What artwork are you most proud of, or which one is your favorite?

Interestingly enough, it is a series of 400 drawings that I did for the emerging Polyfantastica project. Each image representing 100 years of a 40,000 year time line. Even though they are still drawings and will still need to color them, the basic ideas are out of my head. 

If I had to choose a favorite, it would be the cover of the Hi`iaka book, which helped to inspire the Polyfantastica project. 

Why do you think art and creativity is important for Hawaii?
Because there are so many stories that need to be translated in a myriad of media that can help to remind us how to take care of these islands. and ultimately the world. We are at such a crucial time as a species, where we can do so much lasting harm or lasting good. Now is the time to look back to our elder cultures, of whom we are all descendants, to help guide us to a better reality

Your art is futuristic, yet grounded in Hawaii so, what are your thoughts on the future?

To use Polyfantastica for an example: Humans have evolved beyond warfare, and peace is sustained by harmony with the natural world and a perpetual seeking of knowledge and wonder. The real heroes of the future are not military heroes, but explores who seek to understand deeper mysteries of reality. These are concepts that I have found in my research of traditional Hawaiian stories as well as the writings of such luminaries as Carl Sagan. Simply put, there is a better reality then the one we live in. Like the canoe  hidden in the koa tree, it is waiting for us to bring it forth.

What makes you innov8tive?

Well, maybe it is because I am trying to continue the work of my ancestors by engaging new forms of media to share their stories with the world. Maybe, if Hawai`i is to survive in this new globalised reality, we need to become like our shape -shifting ancestors in order to survive the paradox of being part of the collective human family and of being uniquely Hawaiian. Our stories can help to perpetuate our Identity as we are woven into to the fabric of a much larger human story.

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PERSPECTIVES

HULA

There is perhaps nothing more conceptually elusive than the future.

Who: Sarah Kamalei Noyle Hawaiian Name: Kamalei I ka Poli, A professional hula dancer, 21 years old. Born and raised in Hawaii. Ethnic background: English/Chinese

Where (Halau): Halau I Ka Wekiu- Kumu: Michael Casupang and Karl Veto Baker Hula Lineage from Aunt Maiki Aiu Lake who was kumu to Robert Cazimero,who, in turn, is Kumu to Casupang and Baker.

When: Started Hula at 7 years old

Currently: A solo hula dancer weekly at the Moana Surfrider at Sunset. Also a dancer with Tihati Productions at the Hilton and Royal Hawaiian Hotel. She also has her own hula line called “Kamalei”, a contemporary and classic- sophisticated and sassy hula line reflecting an elegant, beautiful Hawaii. ~Kamalei~ was originally created for the contemporary and sophisticated hula dancer, Sarah Kamalei Noyle. As inspiration, consultant and spokes- model, Sarah has danced wearing  ~Kamalei~ in Honolulu, Tokyo, and Sapporo. She has chosen colors, fabrics and designs to reflect the beauty of the dances, the movement of the dancer and the sole of the music.  Each piece has been created to enhance the story told by the hula.

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Q&A with Rico Jimenez:

Who is Rico Jimenez besides the surfer? A Local boy who loves his Fish and Poi.

Classic or Modern Cars/Trucks? All Modern! I love Anything Loud and Fast! Big trucks and street bikes!

Your favorite hole in the wall restaurant? I love Pupukea Grill! It’s a little plate  lunch truck by my house that has the meanest grinds! Garins for broke your hip!

Hawaiian Sun or Aloha Maid? Hawaiian Sun, Guava nectar!

Finish the following: Shaved Ice is... Mean when with a honey girl on a hot day

Most unreal surf spot you have been to (Not Hawaii): Teahupoo, Tahiti is mean!!

How are you innov8ative? I don’t know if I’m Innov8ative....but I do what I like and don’t really care if everyone is into it or not, as long as it makes me happy.. I guess the key is to never stop learning.

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Future Thought

Words: John A. Sweeney

There is perhaps nothing more conceptually elusive than the future.

What do you really know about the future? What do you think you know about the future? More to the point, how do you know to think about the future? What!?! There is perhaps nothing more conceptually elusive than the future- that which has yet to come, that which remains shrouded in mystery, that which depends on the past and can never be found in the present...THE FUTURE! Thankfully, professional futurists (yes, there is such a thing) ponder these questions, and they offer some handy guidelines for thinking about the future, which is not as easy as you might think!

It just so happens that the Political Science Department at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa is home to one of the world's foremost futurists—Dr. Jim Dator.  As Director of the Hawaii Research Center for Futures Studies, head of the Mānoa School of Futures Studies, and the patriarch of college-level Futures Studies, Dr. Dator offers seven directives—conspicuously known as Dator's “Laws” of the Future—for understanding and engaging in the practice of futures studies.

1)       “The future” cannot be “studied” because “the future” does not exist! The notion that the future is determinable and singular does not jive with futurists. There are, in fact, futures and one can study images of the future—think alternate universes—which represent potential visions of the future.

2)       “The future” cannot be “predicted,” but “alternative futures” can, and should be “forecast.” Futurists plot scenarios as to what the future can and might be for an organization, a nation, the world, etc. Similarly, individuals can and ought to work towards building one's own alternative or preferred future—a specialty of the Mānoa School of Futures Studies.

3)       There is no such thing as a “best case scenario” or a “worst case scenario.” All futures present obstacles and opportunities, and it is the task of the futurist to identify and interpret the possibilities and potentialities of the futures under consideration.

4)       What is often popularly, or even professionally, considered to be “the most likely future” is, in all probability, one of the least likely futures. A look at the past should tell one that the future is not easily identifiable—thus, one should, in the words of the Greek philosopher Heraclitus, “expect the unexpected” concerning the future.

5)       “The future” cannot be “predicted,” but “preferred futures” can and should be envisioned, invented, implemented, continuously evaluated, revised, and re-envisioned. Like the streets of Honolulu, futures remain under permanent construction and should be revisited consistently for upgrades and expansions.

6)       Any useful idea about the future should appear to be ridiculous. Airplanes? The Internet? All were at one time completely outlandish and unimaginable concepts, yet we cannot imagine a world—certainly a present...perhaps even a future—without them.

7)       If futurists expect to be useful, they should expect to be ridiculed and for their ideas initially to be rejected. Considering the above, this requires no explanation.

A good futurist is not afraid to ask the same question twice: how do you know to think about the future(s) now? Futures Studies requires intellectual discipline and rigor tempered with an ability to laugh at one's self—as Dator's seven directives suggest, there are many absurd things that come out of the mouths of futurists, but occasionally they have been heard to mutter, “I told you so!”

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