November 17, 2009

Relax in your Hawaiian Pune’e and read a book

In Hawaii with our relaxed lifestyle, one piece of furniture that many of us love to have in our homes is called a Pune’e which is a moveable couch or bed seen in corners of living rooms, on the lanai or covered porch and other rooms of the home.  The pune’e was originally a stack of lauhala mats used by Native Hawaiians for sleeping or lounging in grass houses.  Today, Pune’e’s are used as extra sleeping areas as well as lounging and napping during the day.  They are often created from single or double beds with lots of pillows or bolsters added for comfort and support.  Some are simply set on the floor, while others are more intricate with built in support from a platform made from bamboo, teak or other exotic materials.  In Hawaii we have had a trend toward Indonesian furniture for a rustic, tropical look so some of the current day pune’e’s may have intricate carvings and be higher off the floor.  However they are made, simple to luxurious, a Pune’e is one of the most inviting places to curl up with a good book and look out at the Pacific Ocean and relax.  The multitude of colorful or designer pillows invites anyone to take a deep breath and relax to enjoy our “Hawaii Life”

September 1, 2009

Peter Kowalke Ceramics class great for local and visting artists in September.

Art Ecology and Health Education Center classes to begin in Kapaau
Dear Friends,

We are very happy to announce the first official class offering at our new community Art Ecology and Health Education Center in Kapa’au.

After 3 years of renovations and building with the help of many talented builders and technicians -
we are ready to begin classes.

Please let me know if the attached PDF brochure comes through clearly.

Please call or email with any questions : 808 937 7556

If you would like a tour of the Studio, Teaching Areas, Community Library/Porch/Bathroom,
Veggie-oil capable – heat recuperating car kiln, etc. — before making your decision to enroll – please call for a tour.

We live next to the Kohala Middle School with a large parking & turn around area for class parking.

Please forward this brochure to people who may be interested – class size limited to 8.

Much Aloha – Peter

CLASSES SEPTEMBER 1 – 26
Part 1 of a 4 level on-going course – each growing in detail and depth
Tuesday and Thursday Nights – 6PM-9PM.
Sat – Open Studio – 9 – 12Noon.
$250.00 TUITION : Instruction in our new Timber Frame ocean view
studio, with lovely deck, bathroom, library, etc.
$85.00 Materials/ Facility Fee: Includes 25 pounds of clay, glazes,
tools, storage & 2 firings.
TO REGISTER CALL 808.937.7556 or EMAIL peterantrim@gmail.com
ART IN SIGHT
Art and Ecology Education
SCULPTING
CLAY
SLAB
WHEEL
MOLDS
GLAZES
FIRING
GEOLOGY
OF CLAY
SELF
EXPRESSION
HISTORY OF
CERAMICS
CHEMISTRY
OF CLAY
PETER KOWALKE has his M.F.A which focused on
Sculpture, Fiction and Island Ecosystems and has
taught on many levels in Hawaii, from college to kindergarten,
always emphasizing an interdisciplinary
!project based” learning style.
ART IN SIGHT is devoted to the integration of Art,
Science and Health education. The public artworks
created emphasize the island ecosystems and a
holistic psychology based in the belief of !interconnectedness.

August 11, 2009

The Winds are picking up from left over remnants of Hurricane Felicia, down graded.

Great News. The Hurricane did not happen.

This link will tell you all about it.  Satellite and Radar, Aircraft Recon, Advisory Archives avaialable, Podcasts. etc.

http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/signup.shtml

July 27, 2009

Tips for protecting your home and vehicle from being victimized

Hawaii Vacation Rentals, Inc.Here on the islands we have a saying “Out of site out of mind”

Regarding homes:

Secure windows and doors, leavea light , TV or music on, keep garage door closed, lower hedges for easier visibility, install motion sensor lights, install alarm or similar devices, get to know your neighbors, let neighbors know when you travel.

Regarding cars:

Lock doors, roll up windows, do not leave keys in vehicle, keep valuables out of view, park vehicle near a light, park in garage if possible, install anti theft device, install alarm system.

Note:

These tips will help deter the amateur or common criminal , but will not stop determined criminal, professional or someone under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

If you come across a crime in progress or discover you have had a break in, leave the area immediately. The criminal might still be around. When you are clear from the area call 911 on your cell phone, pay phone or neighbors home.

If you awaken to a criminal in your home, or if they enter while you are awake and you are unable to leave, find a secure location, lock yourself from the intruder and call 911. If there is no phone in the room you have locked yourself into, open a window and yell from your neighbor’s help. But if possilbe, leave the home and call 911.

If you have others in your home (family, roommates, etc.) yell “there is a burglar in the house” so they can also secure themselves in  a safe area or leave the home. Making a plan ahead of time for an incident like this will help you and them be more prepared.

Note: Criminals will usually break into your home or car to steal items. Do not confront them. Your property is replaceable, you are not. Luckily the Big Island is still a safe and great community. We just have to be aware of possible situations that very rarely would arise.

July 14, 2009

Real Estate Listings available on the Big Island of Hawaii– Alan Lundberg is happy to assist you.

Alan Lundberg 

 Alan B. Lundberg, Realtor (S)       Hawaii Vacation Rentals, Inc.       

 LundbergRealEstateHawaii@yahoo.com

7 Puako Beach Dr.  Kohala Coast  96743            Tel:  (808) 895-9318       Toll Free: 1-800-322-7081     

 Contact Alan Lundberg about these MLS listings and general questions on Long Term Rentals here on the Big Island of Hawaii.

 Search criteria: LISTINGAGENT Agent ID 62034. MLS Status Active

$ ELIMA LANI 

    MLS # 222539 TMK # 3-6-8-3-38-40 $229,000
 

This Listing is  priced at $229,000 and is located in Waikoloa and is a Elima Lani Condominium

 

68-3890 LUA KULA ST, #1408 

2 bedrooms & 2.00 baths
854 sq ft of living area
Fee simple ownership – Condo

Includes: Air Conditioning, Appliance/Unit, Ceiling Fan, Carpet, Window coverings, Dryer, Disposal, Dishwasher, Microwave, Refrigerator, Range, Storage Area, Smoke/Heat Detector, Security, Spa, *See Remarks, Sidewalk, TV Cable, Washer 
Remarks: Tastefully remodeled 2nd-floor unit with vaulted ceilings and updated with Designer touches. An immaculate condominium home that you’ll be proud to own and find a pleasure to occupy. Away from parking lot and pool distractions, but only a short walk to either, this comfortable quiet 2bdrm/2bath unit affords privacy. Included are window treatments, Berber carpet, ceiling fans, upgraded and nearly new quality appliances, new microwave, air conditioning, lanai storage cabinet, and double-locking heavy-duty screen door at entry. This unit is clean and beautiful, well cared-for.Elima Lani Condominium is a quiet peaceful condominium project with mixed tenants and owners: singles, families, retirees.. 2 pools and barbeque areas, ample guest parking and on-sight manager. The common areas are well taken care of and clean. HOA fees are $550/year and entitle the Owners to golf, tennis, and pool privileges. Condo maintenance fees include trash collection and pay for your water bill, as well as common area care and insurance.Waikoloa Village is located in the heart of the Kohala Coast (centrally located between Kona and Waimea), uphill and approx 20 minutes from the beach, shopping, hotels and resort ammenities. The Village has it’s own shopping center with gas station, grocery store and many shops, restaurants and services, as well as tennis courts, golf and community pool. Association dues, CC+R’s, and Pets Allowed(see House Rules).
E komo mai! Come & see.. 

 HALAULA SUBDIVISION 

    MLS # 220206 TMK # 3-5-3-9-69 $219,000
 

This Listing is priced at $219,000 and  is located in North Kohala

 

53-432 HALAULA MAULILI RD 

3 bedrooms & 2.00 baths
1,320 sq ft of living area on 15,000 sqft of land
Fee simple ownership – Residential

Includes: Floor Tile, Hardwood Floor 
Remarks: Affordable unfinished remodeled home that you can complete just the way you want. Perfect for your family or utiluze as a rental property. Originally built at the Mauna Lani Resort and moved to North Kohala in late 2006, where it has been placed on a new foundation and given a new roof, paint, and much interior remodeling. Requires electric, septic and plumbing installations to fit the new Owner’s specifications. Some new fixtures are on property and are not yet installed as yet. Temporary electricity is hooked-up and operational for construction purposes. House plans will be included to the new owner. Come see if this property will work for you. Approximately one-third acre lot in a pleasant neighborhood. A wide ocean and sunrise-sky will greet you every morning on the deck (make it an enclosed lanai!) and are yours to enjoy. Unlimited possibilities to “tailor-fit”this unfinished remodel to your specifications. 

 Kilohana Kai at Waikoloa 

    MLS # 216864 TMK # 3-6-8-40-34 $449,995
 

This Listing is priced at $449,995 and is located in Waikoloa

 

68-3526 Haia St. 

4 bedrooms & 2.50 baths
1,874 sq ft of living area on 12,241 sqft of land
Fee simple ownership – Residential

Includes: Appliance/Unit, Ceiling Fan, Carpet, Dryer, Disposal, Drive, Dishwasher, Floor Tile, Gar/Car Ea Unit, Graded, Landscaped, Microwave, Refrigerator, Range, Storage Area, Smoke/Heat Detector, Solar, Sprinkler System, Sidewalk, TV Cable, Washer 
Remarks: A Brand New Home scheduled for completion in April, 2009. Builder may be able to work with your colors, preferences, and upgrades if your offer is submitted in time. Coastline and Sunset views, and a 462 s.f. covered lanai beckons you to consider this property as your new family home for both comfort and quality. Price includes the following features:* 2786 Total s.f. Under Roof ** Large Covered Lanai ** Granite Kitchen Countertops ** Raised Panel Cabinetry ** Vinyl Windows and Sliders *

* Dual-Glazed Doors and Windows *

* Solar Hot Water *

* Fully Insulated Walls and Ceilings *

* Master Bedroom Walk-in Closet *

* Recessed Lighting *

* Ceiling Fans *

* Ceramic Tile in Baths & Kitchen *

* Quality Appliances *

* Vaulted Ceilings *

* Irrigation System *

* Fully Landscaped Yard *

* Full 2-car Garage *

Seller will consider assisting Buyer with partial down-payment financing if presented with a full-price offer.

There are many reasons why you should see this home and the quality options available.

Waikoloa is centrally located on the Big Island’s famed Kohala Coast. Only minutes to beaches, resorts, shopping centers, golf, pool, tennis, and stables. Community Assn dues are $550/yr. Come and see…
E Komo Mai 

 Kilohana Kai at Waikoloa 

    MLS # 216863 TMK # 3-6-8-35-64 $479,995
 

This Listing is priced at 479,995 and is located in Waikoloa

 

68-3679 Kokee St. 

4 bedrooms & 2.50 baths
1,874 sq ft of living area on 10,667 sqft of land
Fee simple ownership – Residential

Includes: Appliance/Unit, Ceiling Fan, Carpet, Dryer, Disposal, Drive, Dishwasher, Floor Tile, Gar/Car Ea Unit, Graded, Landscaped, Microwave, Refrigerator, Range, Storage Area, Solar, Sprinkler System, Sidewalk, TV Cable, Washer 
Remarks: BRAND NEW!.. Excellent unobstructable Ocean and Sunset Views along with quality construction and fully landscaped lot. Located on a quiet cul-de-sac on Waikoloa’s boundary line in the recently developed Kilohana Kai neighborhood. Come and feel the quiet and peacefulness of this home and surrounding area. E Komo Mai.Price includes the following:* Views, Views, Views ** Large Covered Lanai ** Granite Kitchen Countertops ** Raised-panel Cabinetry *

* Vinyl Windows and Sliding Doors *

* Fully Insulated Walls and Ceilings *

* Dual-Glazed Windows and Doors *

* Solar Hot Water *

* Vaulted Ceilings *

* Ceramic Tile in Baths & Kitchen *

* Recessed Lighting *

* Master Bedroom Walk-In Closet *

* Ceiling Fans *

* Quality Appliances *

* Irrigation System *

* Fully Landscaped Yard *

* 2744 s.f Total Area Under-Roof *

Seller may be able to assist with down- payment financing with a full-price offer.

There are many reasons why you should see this home and the quality options available. Complete drawings, plans and elevations are available to view by clicking on the Documents Icon above, next to the Blue Camera Icon.

Waikoloa is centrally located on the Big Island’s famed Kohala Coast. Only minutes to beaches, resorts, shopping centers, golf, pool, tennis, and stables. Community Assn dues are $550/year. Come and see..
E Komo Mai. 

 Kilohana Kai at Waikoloa 

    MLS # 216865 TMK # 3-6-8-40-2 $575,000
 

This Listing is priced at $575,000 and is located in Waikoloa

 

68-3587 Haia St. 

3 bedrooms & 2.50 baths
1,924 sq ft of living area on 10,500 sqft of land
Fee simple ownership – Residential

Includes: Appliance/Unit, Ceiling Fan, Carpet, Disposal, Drive, Dishwasher, Floor Tile, Gar/Car Ea Unit, Graded, Landscaped, Laundry, Microwave, Refrigerator, Range, Rock Walls, Storage Area, Smoke/Heat Detector, Solar, Sprinkler System, Sidewalk, TV Cable 
Remarks: BRAND NEW Home scheduled to be completed in April or May, 2009. Total Quality Living and Fabulous Unobstructable Views of Maui, Kona Sunsets, and the South Kohala Resorts and Coastline. Builder is willing to work with Buyers to custom fit this home to their needs and desires if time allows. Bring your offer as soon as possible, and get every detail completed the way you want it.
Price includes the following features:* 2647 sf Total Area Under Roof ** Incredible Views ** Incredible Sunsets ** LARGE (723sf) Covered Lanai ** Flowing Floorplan w/ added Office *

* Double-Entry Doors w/ Foyer *

* Separate Laundry Room *

* Granite Kitchen Countertops *

* Raised-Panel Cabinetry *

* Recessed Lighting *

* Fully Insulated Walls & Ceilings *

* Vinyl Windows and Patio Doors *

* Dual-Glazed Sliders and Windows *

* Solar Hot Water *

* Vaulted Ceilings *

* Master Bedroom Walk-In Closet *

* Ceiling Fans *

* Quality Appliances *

* Irrigation System *

* Fully Landscaped Yard *

* Full 2-Car Garage *

Seller may assist Buyer in Partial Down-Payment Financing with a full-price offer.

There are many reasons why you should see this home and the quality options available. Complete drawings, plans, and elevations are available for viewing by clicking on the Documents Icon above, next to the Blue Camera Icon.

Waikoloa is centrally located on the Big Island’s famed Kohala Coast.Only minutes to beaches, resorts, shopping centers, pool, golf, tennis, and stables. Community Assn dues are $550/yr. Come and see..

E Komo Mai 

This information has been supplied by third parties and has not been independently verified by Hawaii Information Service and is, therefore, not guaranteed.

June 29, 2009

Stand up Paddle surfing a big hit along the coast!

People really seem to be requesting places to go Stand -Up paddle surfing here in Puako. Surf schools and retailers in our area have reported a growth in interest for the sport known as “sup” or “supping”

Many people in California are riding these boards and the sport seems to be accepted by surfers better than kayaks trying to share the waves. Both men and women enjoy this sport and when there are no waves, this is a great way to stay in shape until the next swell.

You can rent these boards through local companies and take off right from your back yard here in Puako or any of the great access points along Puako Beach Drive.  Contact www.AlohaLivingServices.com to get rates on a lesson or to rent. You usually have to take a lesson before renting.

June 5, 2009

Dine at Denny’s and Feed the Animals, June 14th Three Ring Ranch!

Zoe the Zebra at the Three Ring RanchJune 14th come Dine At Denny’s and Feed the Animals

Denny’s Project Compassion is hosting a fundraising event June

14th from 4-9 pm. 20% of all proceeds from meals sold godirectly to the Three Ring Ranch, but wait, it gets better! 100%

of all tips are also going right to feed and care for the

critters.

We hope that the families of all of the students who have enjoyed

one of our educational programs will come have dinner          (or dessert,

yummy! ) and help feed the animals this special night.  Mark the

date on your calendar now and come join us.

If we fill Denny’s we can raise enough to feed and care for the

animals for several months. So bring friends, tell neighbors, email

visitors and come help support the Sanctuary.

As an extra bonus, for the first 50 tables seated a souvenir

Three Ring Ranch mug will be given out, One per table.

I’ll see you there,

Ann Goody

Curator, Three Ring Ranch

75-809 Keaolani Dr.,Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740 phone 808 331-8778

animals@threeringranch.org           www.threeringranch.org

June 2, 2009

6 Simple Steps to save energy

vacation_big_island.jpg1. No more Standby! Seventy Five percent of electricity used in the home is actually wasted. It’s the power electronics like TVs and computers in standby mode that really waste the energy. So turn them off when not in use. You could save a lot of money each year.

2. Turn off the lights in empty rooms. Also turn off fans, stereos, and A/C

3. Open the windows. Let the trade winds reduce A/C use. Save up to $100.00 a year on your electric bill.

4. Close the drapes and blinds before turning on the A/C. The sun’s heat makes your unit work harder, driving up the monthly energy bill.

5. This one just saves money. Sign up for Hawaiian Electric’s Energy Scout to allow the utility to turn off you hot water heater briefly during system emergencies. You will earn $3 tax credit on your monthly electic bill.

6. Take the energy pledge. Start saving energy by declaring your commitment. Download your pledge card at www.heco.com , sign it and place it on the fridge where everyone can see it.

May 4, 2009

Fire and Safety Tips

Clear all Brush from around your homeIt is always good this time of year to make sure you are up to code in your own home, vacation rental and even homes you may be trying to sell. Here are some quick pointers to help you get started in preventing fires.

 Smoke Detectors:

Test monthly and change the batteries annually. When it “Chirps”, that means the battery is low and needs replacement.

Install inside and outside of bedrooms, on every floor and also in the hallways.

Fire Extinguishers:

Check gauges once a year. Have the correct size and type. Know when to use them, on small fires only. Learn how to use them.

 Acronym : PASS Pull the pin , Aim the nozzle, Squeeze the trigger, Sweep side to side at the base of the fire as you approach.

Electrical hazards : Refrain from using extension cords as “permanent” wiring. Assure all electrical outlets and light switches have cover plates in good working order. Use only proper wiring techniques (no power strip extension cord to power strip connections. No quick fix Mc Gyver rig ups)

Fire Loading: Clear excess Brush, household waste and rubbish from around the home. Remove excess clutter from inside your home. Keep area around electrical equipment and appliances free from combustible materials.

Escape Plan : Have a primary and secondary plan. Practice both of those plans, stay low- Smoke tends to rise. Keep all doorways and hallways clear.

Other Safety Tips: Keep lighters and matches out of reach of children. Keep all dangerous and hazardous items secured. Stop drop and roll if clothing is on fire. Other effective methods are smothering the fire or to remove the clothing if flammable liquids are involved. Keep flammable liquids (gas, paints, cleaners, etc. ) in its approved containers and store away from ignition or heat sources.

Reviews on the location of Puako.

Mauna Lani Beach ClubIt is always nice to get positive reviews year after year from our guests.  

Our philosophy is simple – We want to personally know the preference of accommodations for each guest.  Then we can provide the best home, services and setting for an ideal vacation.  We allow the dolphins, whales, turtles, sunsets and Hawaii to take care of the rest.  We want to personally know the preferences of each owner and strive to do the very best to accommodate their wishes while keeping our services and care of the properties up to very high standards.   Hawaii Vacation Rentals, Inc. is a licensed real estate company located in the charming beach community of Puako on the Kohala coast nestled very quietly between some of the most world renowned resorts such as the Mauna Kea, Mauna Lani and Fairmont Orchid as well as the Four Seasons at Hualalai. To contact us:  www.vacationbigisland.com or e-mail seaside@aloha.net and our toll free number at (800) 332-7081.  If you call after hours or on the week end, you will reach our wonderful answering service!  Please let us know that you found us through this newsletter and we will offer you one free night for a seven night reservation!8/17/2002  “What a great place” We have enjoyed our stay here and the sunsets were wonderful. We didn’t get a chance to do half the stuff we wanted so we will just have to come back. Snorkeling on the beach and seeing the turtles was great!” Tim and Cynthia B.,  Port Alberni , British Columbia

2/10/2004 “What a great location” high up to catch the breeze, see the sunset and walk to the beach. We appreciate the extras, beach towels, a big coffee pot, ice packs, sand chairs, able to wash clothes, grill and toilet paper!! What a great place for our needs, to be together” The Ericsons

6/29/2005 “We had a beautiful family vacation” everyone – ages 5 to 60 , had a fantastic time.

5/28/2006  Whale’s Tail Puako.  ” Whale’s Tail is a fabulous rental property. The furnishings and layout are wonderful , and the location may be the best  in Puako. Puako itself is an undiscovered gem. The beach outside of the house is perfect for small children to play in and practice their snorkeling. When the tide goes out., exploring the tidepools can last for hours and of course we viewed lots and lots of sea turtles in our little cove. This was a fabulous Hawaiian vacation we will never forget” Brett, Lorraine, Emily and Grace B.

08/24/2008

Dear Patty, Jonathan, Debi and the Hawaiian Vacation Rentals Team: This is just a short note to tell you how much we enjoyed our recent stay in Puako.  The Beach Banyan was terrific!  It was clean and fresh when we checked in and everything worked beautifully.  There was a lovely tropical flower arrangement waiting for us on the dining table.  The house was fully equipped and we also enjoyed great outdoor furniture.  With one phone call, Jonathan delivered to our door a couple of ocean kayaks which we enjoyed using at all times of day.  Please feel free to use me as a client reference or use any part of my comments in a testimonial.  You team delivered a professional and attentive approach to our vacation experience from the reservation process and accommodations to recommendations about where to eat and what to do during our Puako stay.  We are already looking forward to our return trip next August. Thank and warm regards,

Reed and Dayle Eisenhauer