Category Archives: Featured Post
Outrigger Laguna Phuket Host of the Year
By Patcharee (Paew) Chanantho
GM Darren Shaw, Khun Pom and Executive Chef Robert Czeschka
Congratulations to Khun Wirayut Sangkaew (Pom) awarded Host of Year. Khun Pom joined Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas from pre-opening as Steward. He displays consistency in productivity, an excellent attitude towards his peers and management and after one year, was promoted to Cook Helper. Read the rest of this entry
Alfred Preis 2011 Honoree: Jean Rolles
By Kevin Takemori, Hawai‘i Arts Alliance
Seated: Kathy and David Carey, Jean Rolles and Dr. Chuck Kelley Standing: Donna Leong, Estelle M. Kelley, Alan and Debbie White and Gregg and Ruthann Yamanaka
On Friday, January 6, 2012, Hawai‘i Arts Alliance celebrated Jean Rolles with the prestigious Alfred Preis Honor for her lifetime commitment and support for the arts and arts education in Hawai‘i. Read the rest of this entry
“Cover Girl” Ivy Kwok
By Robert McConnell
Ivy Kwok
Executive Housekeeping Today magazine, a national publication of the International Executive Housekeepers Association, will be featuring our own Outrigger veteran, Ivy Kwok in their February executive profile section. Read the rest of this entry
The Times They Are A-Changin’!
By Dr. Richard Kelley
As we start the year 2012, I see a mixed outlook, which I would like to share with you along with a bit of personal history. Read the rest of this entry
John Wigsten Named General Manager at Outrigger Guam Resort
By Barry Wallace
I am pleased to join Human Resources in announcing the promotion of John Wigsten to General Manager of the Outrigger Guam Resort. Read the rest of this entry
Aloha Chong Suk Im and Song Wen Liu
By Kathy Oyadomari
Two retirement ceremonies were held in December for long-time employees of Outrigger. On December 8, Outrigger Reef on the Beach ‘ohana gathered to bid aloha to Chong Suk Im, who retired after 27 years of dedicated service, and on December 27, OHANA Waikiki Malia ‘ohana gathered to bid aloha to Song Wen Liu, who retired after 23 years of dedicated service. Dr. Chuck Kelley, Ruthann Yamanaka, Chuck Shishido and Bill Comstock expressed their appreciation on behalf of Outrigger Hotels & Resorts for their hard work and contributions over the years, and gifts of aloha and recognition were presented. Read the rest of this entry
2011: A Year of Recovery and Transition
By Dr. Richard Kelley
As we approach the end of the first year in this decade, I look back with a great deal of pride at everything we have accomplished in the past 12 months. Although our company is spread across the Pacific with operations separated by thousands of miles of blue water and hours of flight time, we have worked together as a remarkable team. We have served our customers warmly and efficiently, and in most areas earned a profit as well. We have also made significant investments in the future of our company.
Our Waikiki-based ‘ohana can be proud of the extraordinary efforts they and so many others made to deliver a spectacular meeting for all those attending November’s APEC summit. You proved without a doubt that Hawai‘i can host even the most demanding high-level meetings and conferences.
This will pay off handsomely in the future, and I predict we will see bookings from groups and industries that might never before have considered Hawai‘i a place for serious business meetings and conferences. That will translate into opportunities for jobs, personal growth and new income, with all the benefits that follow, for both the private and government sectors in Hawai‘i.
Yes, together we are a powerful team!
As we look forward to 2012 and beyond, it promises to be a busy, challenging time. In Hawai‘i, the renovations at the Outrigger Waikiki will test our skills in many ways. In Australia, the conversion of the Holiday Inn to Outrigger Surfers Paradise, which starts early in the year, will also take a lot of hard work by Grant James and his staff. Darren Edmonstone and our Asia-Pacific headquarters staff will be more than occupied by new projects in Thailand, Vietnam, Bali (Indonesia) and Hainan (China).
Economists predict that, IF the world economy does not stumble badly or crash, we can expect another year of growth in the number of visitors, hotel/condo occupancy, room rates and Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR). That will be good for all the members of our ‘ohana.
But please note my emphasis on IF, because there are many things that can go wrong in the coming months. I hate to write about them during the holiday season, but these are issues that need close attention.
What I worry most about now is the health of the international financial system. Particularly in the United States and Europe, governments at every level have been spending money and making promises for future spending far in excess of available resources. Pick up almost any newspaper to get a feel for the severity of the situation.
Unfortunately, neither the media nor most governments are telling “the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth” about this issue.
Consider the huge and rapidly rising U.S. national debt. One way to evaluate a nation’s debt – a good yardstick/meter stick – is to compare it to that nation’s gross domestic product (GDP), the total value of all goods and services produced in a year.
From 1900 to 1933, the U.S. had very little national debt, typically less than 30 percent of GDP.
From 1933 to 1941, the national debt rose to about 40 percent of GDP as spending on social programs increased rapidly with the measures President Franklin D. Roosevelt undertook to end the Great Depression.
In the early 1940s, when winning World War II demanded tremendous efforts and extraordinary spending, U.S. debt rose to 120 percent of GDP. However, following the defeat of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan, debt dropped back to pre-war levels for several decades.
In 1974, U.S. debt was only 32 percent of GDP. That was the year Outrigger finished building and opened what are now the OHANA Waikiki East and OHANA Waikiki West hotels.
By 2001, with the continuing rapid growth of government social programs, U.S. debt had risen to 56 percent of GDP.
In 2008, it stood at 70 percent of GDP.
Today, at the end of 2011, U.S. debt is about 102 percent of our GDP and rising fast!
In dollars, the current total U.S. debt on the books is estimated at $15.1 trillion. However, as recently reported in USA Today, the U.S. also has an additional $60 to $160 trillion in unfunded obligations and promises that are not yet recorded as “debt.” Included in this figure are promises the federal government has made for Social Security, Medicare, federal employee retirement benefits, military retirement and disability obligations. These are real future costs but they are still “off the books.”
“The (federal) debt … doesn’t take into account what’s owed to seniors, veterans and retired employees,” says accountant Sheila Weinberg, founder of the Institute for Truth in Accounting, a Chicago-based group that advocates better financial reporting. “Without accurate accounting, we can’t make good decisions.” (USA Today, June 6, 2011)
This is a widespread problem. The countries using the euro as their currency – that is, most of Europe – are currently teetering at the edge of crisis because of government debt that is in technical default. Greece, Spain, Portugal and Italy are in precarious positions, and the situation of several other European countries also looks wobbly. A crisis in any of these countries could trigger a domino effect across Europe and beyond. The free-spending debtor countries want thrifty Germany to bail them out – assume part of their debts – but that would put an intolerable burden on German taxpayers, so Germany’s government is balking.
In most cases, the root cause, as in the U.S. (where the problem is not yet as far advanced as in Europe but nonetheless continues to move in a troubling direction), is that governments have made far too many promises to their citizens – promises the countries cannot afford now and even less so in the future.
When governments are forced to suddenly address financial crises that have been gradually building for decades, they must undertake measures like raising taxes and cutting social programs and benefits that people have long counted on for their own well-being. That is why we have recently been reading about angry demonstrations in the streets and governments being voted out of office in Greece and Italy.
It’s a political example of the irresistible force meeting the immovable object! But something’s got to give, creating the potential for a financial earthquake whose shock waves are likely to be felt around the world, including in the United States. That’s why I say we might have a continuation of economic recovery IF these extremely serious issues can be resolved in the near future.
Do the political leaders of Europe, the U.S. and other countries, as well as our local leaders in Hawai‘i, have the fortitude to address the issue and make the necessary, unpopular decisions? We hope so.
I urge you all to stay informed on these important international and local issues and remain active in the political process; especially in the important election year we are about to enter.
Let’s keep our politicians’ feet to the fire. Be vocal in your opinion as issues come up for a vote. Your personal future, your family’s future and the future of our company depend on it.
2011 At a Glance
January 2011
At a Glance …
- Angelita Sera retired from the Holiday Inn® Waikiki Beachcomber Resort after 40 years of dedicated service with Outrigger.
- The Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas celebrated their one-year anniversary.
- Training of Outrigger’s Training Champions was held at the Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji with a week of learning and sharing.
- Executives of the Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji brought smiles to the children of the Treasure House Children’s Home and the Dilkusha Home.
- Outrigger announced the agreement to manage the Outrigger Koh Samui Resort and Spa in Bhoput Beach, Koh Samui, Thailand, as of February 1, 2011.
- Outrigger honored employees for their years of service.
- Grant James shared how our Australia properties fared during the devastating Queensland floods.
- Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji celebrated and honored their exemplary “vuvale” for the month of December.
- The Hawai‘i Hotel & Lodging Association held its 21st Annual Na Po‘e Pa‘ahana Awards recognition luncheon honoring the state’s best of the best hospitality industry employees.
- Eight supervisors achieved their Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS) designation from the American Hotel & Lodging Association.
- The Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji celebrated and honored their star achievers for 2010.
- Outrigger honored its Employees of the Quarter for the Fourth Quarter 2010.
- The University of Hawai‘i Men’s Volleyball team opened their regular season with the 17th annual Outrigger Hotels Invitational.
- The Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji Human Resources Team helped to clean-up Sigatoka, as well as educate the community on how to better care for the environment.
- Australian Day was celebrated with a Fijian touch at the Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji.
- Leon Pink was announced as General Manager of the Outrigger Koh Samui Resort and Spa.
Dr. Kelley Highlighted …
- (4) Severe weather that brought both challenges and opportunities – golden moments when we can really make a difference in the lives of our guests .
- How sports tourism builds marketing muscle for our state by inspiring people to travel to our islands to watch and participate in the many sports events Hawai‘i hosts.
- (5) His trip to Reno to attend the Weather Foundation International fundraising banquet and Safari Club International annual meeting, both dedicated to ethical hunting, preservation and wildlife conservation.
February 2011
At a Glance …
- Outrigger was pleased to celebrate and honor several retirees: Leonarda Dait, Linda Chong, Irene Lee and Susan So.
- Outrigger Twin Towns Resort celebrated Australia Day.
- The Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji celebrated and honored outstanding “vuvale” for the month of January.
- Grant James shared that there were no reported deaths, no major injuries and our ‘ohana and properties were safe after Cyclone Yasi hit the coast of Australia.
- The Outrigger Koh Samui Resort & Spa Team received a Buddhist blessing.
- Bill Rees earned his Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) certification from the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute.
- Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji announced that it will support Pacific Games 2011 to be held in New Caledonia in August.
- We celebrated our Ke ‘Ano Wa‘a Values with Paddle 5, How We Do What We Do.
- We celebrated Chinese New Year, kicking off the Year of the Rabbit.
- The Outrigger Laguna Phuket congratulated and honored Host of the Year for 2010, Ying Jiranee Bunsawang.
- Barry Wallace highlighted our value of Kīnā‘ole and Ruthann our value of Equality (Kaulike).
- The Outrigger Reef on the Beach and Outrigger Royal Sea Cliff Resort shared the love by providing couples an opportunity to renew their wedding vows.
- The Outrigger Twin Towns Team connected with the Paddles Process and shared that their focus will be on the half-year results and another adventure, like their Stand-Up Paddle boarding activity.
- Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji gave 64 unemployed Fijian youths the opportunity of a lifetime with a head start in a hospitality career.
- Outrigger and OHANA ‘ohana completed Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training.
Dr. Kelley Highlighted …
- (5) Blizzards that forced airport closures across the nation; how our Denver ‘ohana never missed a beat, as they all work out of their homes; how we ushered in the Year of the Rabbit; and how good friends, the Yips, raised funds to support the construction of schools for underprivileged children.
- How Hawai‘i needs to wake up and smell the coffee and get ready for changes in global air traffic.
- How more flights from Asia are possible if we change the rules.
- How we should always expect the unexpected and always be ready for a disaster.
March 2011
At a Glance …
- Donna Leong highlighted A‘o (To learn and to share) sharing that “It is still true, no matter how old you are, when you go out into the world, it is best to hold hands and stick together.”
- We welcomed Daniel Jones onboard as General Manager of Boathouse Apartments by Outrigger at Airlie Beach.
- Outrigger Twin Towns Resort helped to brighten children’s lives at the Brisbane Mater Children’s Hospital through their support of Captain Starlight.
- Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji celebrated and honored exemplary employees at their February get together.
- Local residents, island visitors, dignitaries and our very own Barry Wallace kicked off the 17th annual Honolulu Festival. Outrigger was once again a proud sponsor of this special festival.
- Lucy Adler shared Outrigger Australia’s program that supports staff members in obtaining formal qualifications while working at Outrigger.
- Barry Wallace commented on Outrigger’s values in action as Hawai‘i got busy preparing for the worst and praying for the best when our friends in Japan were hit by a devastating earthquake and tsunami. He thanked and expressed Aloha to all who got our hotels up and operating normally.
- Dr. Chuck Kelley shared the fifth in a series of eight articles written by Outrigger’s executives: ‘Ohana – It’s what distinguishes us from others.
- The Outrigger Reef on the Beach promoted Youth Literacy by hosting a mural painting event.
- The 17th Annual Honolulu Festival and Waikiki Beach Walk® showed Aloha and Support for Japan.
- Wyndham at Waikiki Beach Walk was recognized by Governor Neil Abercrombie for their 2011 Green Business Program.
- Our hearts were saddened by the passing of coworker and friend, Sherry Le‘iato.
- David Carey wrote that Wahi drives our approach to doing business.
Dr. Kelley Highlighted …
- That international travel has potential – in just four years – to create up to 500,000 new jobs and generate up to $60 billion in additional exports annually, all without bailouts and at minimal cost to taxpayers.
- (5) How Waikiki’s infrastructure needs constant attention and that in preparation for APEC, more visible parts are receiving lots of attention.
- The tremendous challenges for so many people following the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear power plant disaster in Japan. He expressed his thanks to our ‘ohana who responded quickly and successfully in a well-rehearsed effort to protect our properties and the lives of our guests.
- The need for quick action to replace lost business from Japan in the aftermath of the recent devasting earthquake and tsunami, as well as ongoing radiation dangers from the crippled nuclear power plants at Fukushima.
April 2011
At a Glance …
- We were honored to hear from our Hawai‘i-born U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye who we found engaging, humorous and genuine.
- We welcomed Kevin Aucello as Vice President-Hawai‘i Development, Kieran Yap as Corporate Tax Director and Sheila Bernardo as Project Manager with Interactive Commerce.
- The Airport properties celebrated Paddle 5 by reducing our global footprint and preserving our land for future generations.
- Mel Wilinsky shared that the value of Kuleana is a life lesson – having the courage and discipline to act on our responsibilities and to accept all consequences, good or bad.
- Outrigger was honored to lend support to a special benefit concert at Waikiki Beach Walk® with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the Japan Hawai‘i Relief Fund and also made a contribution to the Japan-America Society of Hawai‘i (JASH).
- The Kaua‘i Chapter of the Hawai‘i Hotel & Lodging Association celebrated and honored industry stars from our Kaua‘i properties.
- The Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas honored Khun Pook as Host of the Month.
- Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji celebrated and honored exemplary employees for the month of March.
- Mel Kaneshige shared that the value of Aloha is timeless and universal.
- Outrigger honored its seasoned veterans.
- Dr. Chuck Kelley joined in the Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation’s celebration of 15 years of outstanding service.
- Outrigger welcomed Chef Freddie Billena to the ‘ohana as Executive Chef for the Kani Ka Pila Grille.
- Outrigger celebrated Employees of the 1st Quarter 2011.
- The American Marketing Association recognized Outrigger for outstanding E-Marketing.
- Company Services celebrated one another in the culmination of Paddle 5.
- Peter Hopgood was voted Chairman of the Coral Coast Hotel & Tourism Association.
- Outrigger bid aloha and mahalo to Nian Mei Cai who retired after 24 years of dedicated service.
- Outrigger Reef on the Beach and Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach were recognized as top Travelocity Hotels.
- Kona Hawaiian Resort and Mauna Loa Village received Wyndham Excellence Awards for Overall Experience scores, RCI rating and Quality Assurance scores for 2010.
- Milton Lafitaga was promoted to Senior Sales Manager – Sports/Groups Sales.
Dr. Kelley Highlighted …
- The much-needed improvements being made at Honolulu International Airport. Hawai‘i‘s visitors have long been suffering from slow change at the Honolulu International Airport, so it is refreshing to see Hawaiian Airlines finally taking the lead in addressing some of these issues.
- The many ways Outrigger promotes healthy lifetsyles both at work and at home.
- (5) His trip with daughter Anne Marie to our properties in Thailand — and Vietnam, a country he found to be an exciting, vibrant nation.
May 2011
At a Glance …
- We bid Aloha and Mahalo to retirees Yong Ae Kim after 25 years of service, Pik Kuen Koo after 27 years of service and Naty Esta afer 24 years of service to Outrigger.
- Thousands of Spammies filled the streets and sidewalks of Kalākaua Avenue for the 9th Annual Waikiki Spam Jam® festival.
- May Day was celebrated at the Outrigger Reef on the Beach.
- Dr. Chuck Kelley highlighted Outrigger’s commitment to education. Several Supervisors and Managers successfully completed our 2011 Management Fundamentals Program.
- Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji celebrated and honored outstanding “vuvale” for the month of April.
- Mel Kaneshige announced that Darren Edmonstone was promoted to Managing Director for the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Region; William Visser was hired as Vice President of Operations; Michael Cowan was named Vice President, Development and Projects; and Pieter van der Hoeven was promoted to Vice President, Sales and Marketing.
- The Garden Isle kicked-off Charity Walk.
- Outrigger expressed heartfelt appreciation to those whose accomplishments were simply spectacular at the 2010 Po‘okela Excellence in Leadership Awards.
- A new award was presented this year, the Lifetime Achievement Award, designed to recognize salaried management employees with 20 or more years of service who made significant contributions to Outrigger spanning their entire career. The first honoree of this prestigious award was Bob Finan, Senior Project Manager!
- Our O‘ahu ‘ohana stepped out in fashion similar to our Neighbor Island ‘ohana and helped to raise a whopping $1,155,100 statewide giving from the heart for those less fortunate at the Hawai‘i Hotel & Lodging Association’s Visitor Industry Charity Walk.
Dr. Kelley Highlighted …
- The importance of moms, as they meet the challenge of raising children while holding down demanding full-time jobs, just as his mom, Estelle did.
- How he represented Outrigger with a group of about one thousand leaders of the global Travel and Tourism industry gathered in Las Vegas to discuss, debate and attempt to resolve the major issues our industry faces in today’s complicated world at the 11th Global Travel & Tourism Summit.
- His welcome to the participants of Outrigger’s Leadership Conference at the Hawai‘i Convention Center. He reminisced about our company’s “Deep Roots” and put them in the perspective of our many “New Shoots.” He said, “If we want to keep and grow our share of this exciting but voraciously competitive industry, our company must continually change, adapt, stay ahead of the curve – and stay on top of our game.
June 2011
At a Glance …
- Outrigger bid a fond aloha to Ernesto Rosete who retired after 22 years of dedicated service.
- Ruthann Yamanaka shared highlights of Outrigger’s 2011 Leadership Conference at the Waikiki Aquarium and the Hawai‘i Convention Center.
- The Hawai‘i-based Sales Team and Field Sales participated in the Outrigger Hospitality Aloha Days series calling on tour operators and travel agents in Dallas, San Antonio, Houston, Costa Mesa, San Diego, San Francisco, Minnesota, Illinois and Missouri.
- After having celebrated Memorial Day, Dr. Kelley shared a story that honored those who have died in our nation’s service.
- Outrigger honored our Military during the month of May.
- Outrigger Australia unveiled their Cultural Values Statement – MATESHIP.
- Outrigger welcomed Nicole Nagashima to the Outrigger ‘ohana as Director of Sales & Marketing for Courtyard by Marriott® Waikiki Beach.
- Outrigger bid a fond Aloha to Bob Finan, who retired after 20 years of dedicated service.
- Outrigger bid a fond Aloha to James Lin who retired after 22 years of service with Outrigger.
- Chef Robert Czeschka joined the Outrigger Laguna Phuket.
- Ronal Roylesh Gopal joined the Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji as Sous Chef, Jennifer Yip as Sales Manager, William Work as Duty Manager and Michael Bali as Front Office Manager.
- FOX Sports Radio Network teamed up with Outrigger and offered listeners 20 chances to win a Waikiki Weekend at the Outrigger Reef.
- Netnapa Tadakittikul (Khun Gai) was promoted to Sales Manager based in our Phuket Regional Office.
- Outrigger Hospitality Specialists “Rocked” Hawai‘i Island.
- The Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji honored star performers of the month.
- Grace Nakamura was recognized as one of the top four finalists for Revenue Management Professional of the Year by Hospitality Sales & Marketing International [HSMAI].
- Outrigger successfully concluded our 2010-2011 series of the Six Paddles Process.
Dr. Kelley Highlighted …
- How it is hard to overstate the importance of the 2011 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit for Hawai‘i. A successful APEC will firmly establish Hawai‘i as an excellent venue for major meetings of all types for years to come.
- Richard Lim’s claim that tourism in Hawaii has remained “stagnant” for the past 20 years. Dr. Kelley shared, “it’s time to reinvigorate it. If we can improve our marketing efforts, keep the cost of a Hawai‘i vacation competitive and provide a superior visitor experience, this industry – and the people of this state – will enjoy many more years of prosperity.”
- The opportunity he and Linda had to stay at several hotels in the San Francisco Bay Area and play secret shopper.
- A program in which we gave Hawai‘i public school teachers an opportunity to learn about the business community and the types of skills that their students will need in the future to be successful in business.
July 2011
At a Glance …
- Outrigger paid tribute to Herb Kawainui Kane who passed away on March 8, 2011 at the age of 82.
- Outrigger bid a fond Aloha to Kwok Fai who retired after 23 years of dedicated service.
- The Outrigger Waikiki’s Voyager Room was blessed on the hotel’s 44th Anniversary.
- The Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji celebrated outstanding employees for the month of June.
- The Outrigger Laguna Phuket and Villas announced the expansion of its facilities and welcomed new team members.
- OHANA Waikiki East unveiled its new high-tech media room.
- Outrigger welcomed press from China who were visiting to generate advance exposure of Hawai‘i prior to the start of APEC.
- The annual Flavors of the Reef expressed who the Reef ‘ohana are and where they come from as part of the Six Paddles Process.
- Outrigger recognized Employees of the 2nd Quarter 2011.
- Outrigger congratulated Australia Regional General Manager Grant James who tied the knot with Maggie Leung.
- The Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas celebrated Khao Phansa Day (Buddhist Lent Day).
- The Outrigger Twin Towns Resort celebrated a multicultural celebration in honour of the Outrigger value Wahi.
- The OHANA Waikiki Malia celebrated Paddle 1, Who We Are.
- The Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji announced sponsorship of the Coral Coast Sevens Tournament.
- Sheila Gerbig-Hussey was promoted to General Manager at the Outrigger Aina Nalu.
- Outrigger honored and recognized our ‘ohana who have reached significant years of service for our company.
- The Outrigger Laguna Phuket opened new facilities and integrated new members with current team members in a team-building activity.
- The Holiday Inn® Waikiki Beachcomber Resort Sales & Marketing Team launched its first Open House.
- APAC Executives visited the Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji “vuvale.”
Dr. Kelley Highlighted …
- Independence Day 2011 and his worry that we are losing our freedoms. He shared his thoughts and encouraged us to remember those who sacrificed past and present to preserve the freedoms we enjoy today.
- That each of us should be primarily responsible for our own health care and that of our families. We must educate ourselves, take the time and make the effort to live healthily. That is why Outrigger offers many opportunities for us to do so.
- How politicians are looking at the economy as if it were a cherry pie, fighting to get a larger slice for themselves, friends, supporters and constituents. The focus needs to be on how to make that pie bigger so everyone can enjoy a healthy slice.
- Act 105 (Senate Bill 754) which, in theory, will add $400 million to Hawai‘i’s already heavy tax burden by ‘temporarily’ suspending long-established exemptions from the state’s GET.
- Our summer intern program and how we are proud when the next generation of leaders steps forward to take advantage of this opportunity.
August 2011
At a Glance …
- Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji “vuvale” honored employees of the month.
- The Holiday Inn® Waikiki Beachcomber Resort celebrated the conclusion of the 6 Paddles Process with a “sweet ending.”
- The Holiday Inn® Waikiki Beachcomber Resort management team became a part of CERT (Community Emergency Response Team).
- Kaipo Ho and Marsha Kapu visited “Down Under” and enjoyed their very special Sense of Place.
- New Panache Restaurant opened at the Outrigger Laguna Phuket.
- Outrigger Laguna Phuket honored July Host of the Month.
- The Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji resort management acknowledged the efforts of the “vuvale” with a family fun day.
- The Outrigger Guam Resort helped to raise funds for the Japan Club.
- Outrigger Koh Samui began tours to the Big Buddha.
- Outrigger welcomed Chris Gampon as General Manager of the Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation Resort.
- Outrigger bid a fond Aloha to Dale Verkaaik.
- The Keauhou Beach Resort participated in the 3rd Annual Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival Battle of the BBQ.
- Management staff of the OHANA Waikiki Malia, Japan Sales and Outrigger Projects department showed heart by participating in the inaugural Lea Lea Charity 5K Run and Beach Clean Up benefiting Japan ‘ohana still recovering from a devasting earthquake.
- Outrigger Waipouli Beach Resort, Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach, OHANA Waikiki West, OHANA Waikiki East, Keauhou Beach Resort, Holiday Inn® Waikiki Beachcomber and the Embassy Suites® - Waikiki Beach Walk® all earned a Quality Assurance Award from MLT Vacations.
- The OHANA Waikiki Malia ‘ohana were presented with the Outrigger Enterprises Silver Award for Excellence in Safety for the first quarter.
- Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji Bebe Spa Sanctuary was awarded Spa Design of the Year 2011.
- The Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji Nadroga Stallions won the Farebrother.
- Ke O’ahu won Kani Ka Pila’s Talent Search.
- Outrigger gave tribute to Duke Paoa Kahanamoku on his birthday.
- Outrigger shined at the Made In Hawai‘i Festival.
- UH Women’s Soccer hosted OHANA Hotels No Kai Oi tournament.
Dr. Kelley Highlighted …
- That unfortunately, today’s political leaders are playing a far more dangerous real-life game of “Kick the Can” with our nation’s public debt. “Kicking the Can” also kicks tourism.
- His announcement to step aside as Chairman of the Board and assume the position of Chairman Emeritus. The directors of our company then elected Dr. Chuck Kelley as the new Chairman of the Board for Outrigger Enterprises, Inc.
- (5) His memories from the 1930s and 1940s and the unbelievable degree to which the world, Hawai‘i and our company has changed.
- The tremendous increase in Chinese outbound travel and if Hawai‘i can take advantage of this opportunity, all sectors of our local economy will benefit for years to come.
September 2011
At a Glance …
- Barry Wallace announced Steve Winter’s move to Wyndham Royal Garden as General Manager; Bruce Schneider’s leadership of our OCC properties, including our Wyndham Vacation Ownership properties; Charlene Goo’s move from Guam to O‘ahu to oversee operations of the Courtyard by Marriott® Waikiki Beach, the Embassy Suites® - Waikiki Beach Walk® and the Holiday Inn® Waikiki Beachcomber Resort, as well as continued oversight of Guam operations; Chuck Shishido’s expanded role to include our Beachfront properties in addition to his leadership over our OHANA Hotels and the Keauhou Beach Resort; and Jim Heather’s move to Hawai‘i Island as GM of the Keauhou Beach Resort.
- The Inaugural Waikiki Beach Walk® Zumba-Mania event brought out enthusiastic locals and visitors who pumped up the plaza.
- Rivals Waikiki and Slice of Waikiki opened at the OHANA Waikiki Malia.
- The Outrigger Laguna Phuket held a blessing ceremony for a new building and to bring good fortune.
- “Call the Coach” radio programreturned to Kani Ka Pila Grille.
- Duke’s OceanFest celebrated the life and legacy of Duke Kahanamoku, as well as the greatness of Waikiki Beach!
- Outrigger remembered and paid tribute to long-time ‘ohana member Tom Burke on his passing.
- Beachfront Hotel presentations and interesting history was shared with our Denver ‘ohana by Lori Naone and Dr. Richard Kelley.
- The OHANA Waikiki East employees celebrated Who We Are and Where We Come From through a “Melting Pot of Recipes” cookbook.
- The Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach combined Paddles 1 and 2 by sharing stories behind employees’ names and ancestral information. Departmental displays honored Duke Kahanamoku.
- Kaipo Ho rolled out Create A Remarkable Experience training for all in preparation for APEC.
- Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji celebrated employees of the month.
- U.S. Ambassador Kristie Kenney visited the Outrigger Laguna Phuket.
- Outrigger weighed in on LivingWell at our Outrigger/OHANA Employee Wellness Fair.
- Wyndham Vacations Resorts Royal Garden at Waikiki joined the Outrigger ‘ohana.
- Barry Wallace shared hallmarks of our Housekeepers as we celebrated International Housekeepers Week.
Dr. Kelley Highlighted …
- Labor Day as a time to fire up the grill, thank those who are working hard to support everyone else, think about what you can and need to do to reduce the size and scope of government, increase job opportunities and get this wonderful country back on the path that has made it the greatest nation on earth for 235 years.
- His thoughts on two tragedies: 12/7 and 9/11. He prayed for the victims, as both events are deeply etched in his memory in a very personal way.
- Our Housekeepers – Our Extraordinary Superheroes – who have the respect and admiration of all for the terrific work they do every day!
- That influenza is still very dangerous, cautioning ‘ohana to get their flu shots now!
October 2011
At a Glance …
Outrigger extended a warm Aloha to Guangzhou, China, media group.
- Outrigger Laguna Phuket congratulated Hosts of the Month.
- Outrigger Hospitality Specialist travel agents were hosted to a familiarization trip on the Garden Isle.
- International Housekeepers Week celebrations continued.
- Dr. Chuck shared why his Dad was honored with the “Pacific Business News” Lifetime Achievement Award.
- Jean Rolles and Mildred Courtney helped to make a benefit for the Navy League of the United States, Honolulu Council, a success, as did the efforts of Jhon Pelayo and Pam Cabrera.
- Outrigger’s big heart helped Hawai‘i’s people through Aloha United Way.
- The Outrigger Laguna Phuket celebrated the Vegetarian Festival.
- The Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji honored its “vuvale” of the month.
- The Taste of Waikiki Beach Walk® was a “Suite-Success.”
- Coach store reopened at the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach.
- Employees who reached significant years of service were honored.
- Outrigger agreed to purchase management rights for Holiday Inn Surfers Paradise in Australia.
- Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation celebrated Mahalo Month.
- The Outrigger Koh Samui honored their shining stars.
- The Outrigger Laguna Phuket enjoyed a cowboy-themed Host Party, thanking all for their hard work and dedication this year.
- Bosses were celebrated at the International Executive Housekeepers Association – Hawaii Chapter Bosses’ Night Celebration.
- Avery Aoki was appointed to the Council on Revenues.
- Conchita Malaqui received the Governor’s Award for Exemplary Service to the Retail Industry.
- We celebrated our Employees of the 3rd Quarter 2011.
- Elman Pagaduan received Hilton’s Worldwide Spirit Award.
- English as a Second Language (ESL) grads were honored!
- The Ironman World Championship hit Hawai‘i Island.
- Outrigger was named Australasia’s Leading Hotel Brand at the World Travel Awards in Bangkok, Thailand.
- Bebe Spa Sanctuary won “ASPA Best Destination Spa.”
- Outrigger celebrated the birthday of Princess Ka‘iulani.
- Diwali was celebrated by Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji.
- Outrigger Sales Team hit the road for Outrigger Hospitality Aloha Days Series.
Dr. Kelley Highlighted …
- World Tourism Day, focusing on “Tourism – Linking Cultures,” to highlight the visitor industry’s role in bringing the cultures of the world together and promoting global understanding through travel.
- His feelings upon being presented with the Business Leadership Hawai‘i Lifetime Achievement Award.
- His appreciation for veteran employees of our ‘ohana.
- His visit to Southeast Asia, which included a three-day stop at our APAC regional office, an exciting time of growth and diversification for our company with 8 properties and 1,643 rooms open and running in the region.
- His thoughts on China’s economy and tourism markets.
November 2011
At a Glance …
- Outrigger bid a fond Aloha to Susana Lee and Siu Hing Lee, both retired after 25 years of dedicated service.
- Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji celebrated employees of the month.
- Halloween was celebrated at the Keauhou Beach, the Outrigger Reef on the Beach and Courtyard® by Marriott Waikiki Beach with Pumpkin Carving Contests and at the Outrigger Kiahuna Plantation with a bake sale for Aloha United Way.
- Our Fiji “vuvale” celebrated International Housekeepers Week.
- Outrigger Laguna Phuket celebrated their host of the month.
- The philosopy behind the APEC Aloha shirt print design was shared.
- Outrigger announced that it will manage the beautiful Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort and Spa. Full sales and marketing responsibility began on November 3, 2011 and on November 1, 2012, the property will be rebranded the Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort and Spa.
- The Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach hosted the American Battle Monuments Commission.
- The Melbourne Cup was celebrated at the Outrigger Twin Towns Resort and the Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji.
- Mel Wilinsky announced movements in Financial Service
December 2011
At a Glance …
- (1) Outrigger bid a fond Aloha to Richard Han after 24 years of service.
- The Outrigger Reef on the Beach, Outrigger Regency on Beachwalk, Outrigger Luana Waikiki and Outrigger Waikiki Shore guests and employees celebrated Paddle 4, Why We Do What We Do, with a “Touched by an Angel” ornament-making activity for the Liliha Senior Care Facility.
- Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji Security Officers received training.
- Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji “vuvale” honored employees of the month.
- (2) Outrigger on the Lagoon – Fiji chefs competed and won at the annual Salon Culinaire competition. Muni Nandan Gounder won two gold and two silver medals in the Fiji Junior Chef of the Year competition.
- Bebe Spa Sanctuary was chosen Australian Spa Association’s Best Destination Spa for 2011.
- Outrigger celebrated employees who reached significant years of service with Outrigger.
- (3) Outrigger Hotels & Resorts sponsored the 2011 XTERRA Trail Run World Championships at Kualoa Ranch.
- Outrigger Laguna Phuket ‘ohana participated in the 18th Laguna Phuket Triathlon, which also included a 6km fun run.
- Outrigger Reef on the Beach held its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
- Pictures of Holiday Gatherings started pouring in and were featured.
- Gladys Burrill has completed the Honolulu Marathon five times. Last year at age 92, she set a world record as the oldest female to finish the race, earning her a spot in the Guiness Book of World Records.
- Outrigger Laguna Phuket Executive Chef Robert Czeschka competed in the Ironman 70.3 Asia-Pacific Championship and the property relay team, led by Khun Nu, came in runner-up!
Dr. Kelley Highlighted …
- Continental Airlines’ new beginning and how few heard the quiet whimper from them when they merged with United Airlines.
- Dr. Kelley shared that everybody in Hawai‘i wins when the Honolulu Marathon races into town.
- (4) Mel Wilinsky’s 19-year career with Outrigger.
Warmest Aloha to CFO Mel Wilinsky
By Dr. Richard Kelley
Mel Wilinsky
On Monday, December 19, a number of our ‘ohana will gather on the Voyager Deck of the Outrigger Reef on the Beach to share our aloha with Mel Wilinsky who is retiring at the end of the month after 19 remarkable years of service to Outrigger Enterprises Group. Read the rest of this entry
Record Holder to be Honored
By Dr. Richard Kelley
Dr. Jim Barahal congratulates Gladys Burrill on her record-breaking finish of the 2010 Honolulu Marathon. An inspiration - this year, she will help to raise funds for the Lokahi Giving Project
According to the Honolulu Marathon, “another highlight of race week will be the induction on Thursday of Gladys “Glady’’ Burrill into the marathon’s Hall of Fame. She has completed the Honolulu race five times, and last year, at age 92, set a world record as the oldest female to finish a marathon, earning her a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records. Her time was nine hours, 53 minutes and 16 seconds. This year, she will lead a group in the Race Day Walk to raise funds for the Lokahi Giving Project, a Honolulu charity that helps the less fortunate.”
