HOT NEWS - June 2008

This page is designed to provide you with the most up-to-date news and developments on the "Friendly Isle"

CLOSURE OF MOLOKAI RANCH

Molokai Ranch shut down its operation on April 5, 2008.  The company blamed the move on community opposition to its development plans for a 200-lot subdivision at La'au Point.  At the same time, the Ranch would have set aside 50,000 acres for open space and conservation easement.  The company plans to lay off 120 employees and has closed the following operations on the West End of the island:  Molokai Lodge & Restaurants, the Kaupoa Beach Village, the Maunaloa Gas Station, the Maunaloa Tri-Plex Theater, it's cattle-rearing business and the Kaluakoi Golf Course.  Peter Nichols, chief executive officer, said in a statement that the company was unable to continue bearing operational losses if it wasn't going to be able to implement the development plan.  Molokai Ranch's development plan was completed in late 2005 after two years and nearly 150 public meetings.  Protestors dogged the project throughout and sentiment toward the plan was deeply divided.  Molokai Ranch submitted an environmental impact statement to the state Land Use Commission for approval in October 2007.  Commission said the study inadequately addressed water treatment, segmentation of residential lots, electricity issues and potential environmental hazards to Hawaiian monk seals.  Molokai Ranch withdrew the environmental study but said it planned to prepare another one.  The Ranch also operates three water systems that serve West Molokai. 

Ironwood HIlls Golf Club

Open daily - Executive course in scenic Kalae, just 20 minutes drive from Ke Nani Kai.   PH:  808-567-6000.

Molokai Fish & Dive  

Offers scuba and snorkeling tours, surfboard rentals, guided hikes and tours, kayaking, fishing charters, horseback riding and biking.  PH:  808-553-5926

New Web Site

A new site has been designed featuring a calendar of events on the island.  www.molokaievents.com.  Also, be sure to visit our "link" page featured later on our site -- it provides many web sites that can help you plan your vacation on the Friendly Isle. 

PADDLER'S INN - Molokai's newest eatery and favorite place to relax "Hawaiian Style" is open daily from 11 am serving lunch and dinner.  Located at the edge of Kaunakakai Town.   Nightly specials and live entertainment are featured regularly.   Sunday brunch served 10:30 am.   PH:  808-553-5256.

KAMUELA'S COOKHOUSE continues to be a local favorite.   Look for  weekend dinner specials, children's and senior's menus along with more fresh fruit and bakery items.  Eat in or take out.  PH:  808-567-9655. 

AIRLINES TO MOLOKAI:

Go! Airlines                         www.iflygo.com         PH: 1-888-435-9462

Island Air                              www.islandair.com    PH:  1-800-323-3345

Pacific Wings Express      www.flypwx.com        PH:  1-888-575-4546 

FERRY TO MOLOKAI

The Molokai Princess offers ferry service between Molokai and Lahaina, Maui.  Boats run twice daily. Please check www.molokaiferry.com for schedule and rates.