Kamehameha Investment lauded
By Robbie Dingeman
Advertiser Staff Writer
Kamehameha Investment Corp. — the for-profit development arm of Kamehameha Schools — yesterday won top honors from the Hawai'i Tourism Authority for its "Ho'iho'i Kulana Wahi Pana - Restoring Sacred Places" project.
The state's lead agency for tourism recognized the project with its Koa Award at its 17th Annual Keep It Hawai'i Recognition Awards.
The project encompasses various projects including the complete restoration of three significant heiau. The company is credited with preserving cultural assets while developing the Keauhou Resort on the island of Hawai'i.
In addition, 17 Kahili awards and 26 Lehua Maka Noe certificates of merit were presented to individuals, organizations and businesses in recognition of their commitment to perpetuate the Hawaiian culture.
"The Hawaiian culture is what defines us as a destination, and it is in our community's best interest to respectfully portray and continue these traditions for our visitors and residents to enjoy," said Rex Johnson, HTA president and chief executive officer, who said there has been an increase in both the quantity and quality of applicants for the awards.
Six lifetime achievement He Kuleana Ke Aloha awards were presented for personal commitment and dedication to ensuring that the Hawaiian culture is perpetuated for generations to come. The recipients included:
In 2005, HTA began managing the Keep It Hawai'i Recognition Awards, an initiative of the Hawai'i Visitors and Convention Bureau that began in 1990. Under the guidance of a Hawaiian Cultural Program Advisory Council, the program was restructured to include a focus on the broader community.
Nominations were judged on: authenticity, usage, uniqueness, educational value, longevity and commitment to the future. HTA's HCPAC, which is comprised of members of the Hawaiian community and the visitor industry, reviewed the nominations and selected the awardees.
For more information, and a complete list of honorees, visit www.hawaiitourismauthority.org.
Reach Robbie Dingeman at rdingeman@honoluluadvertiser.com.
