Reef award nominees named
Preservation efforts will be recognized at the program today
The Coral Reef Outreach Network is holding its second annual Hawaii Living Reef Program Awards at the Radisson Waikiki Prince Kuhio Hotel today.
The program recognizes outstanding groups, organizations and individuals who have helped promote coral reef preservation throughout the Hawaiian Islands.
Winners will receive a Tiffany's custom-designed trophy.
The 2006 nominees are:
COMMERCIAL DIVISION:
Ocean Recreation; Maui Thrills Eco-Nature Tours; Pacific Whale Foundation Eco-Adventures; Donovan Domingo Maui Dream Dive Shop; Wild Side Specialty Tours; Travel/Tourism Business; Pacific Islands Institute; Commercial/Retail Business; Matson Navigation Co. Inc.; Maui Land and Pineapple
NON-COMMERCIAL DIVISION:
» Government Agency
Department of Land and Natural Resources--Division of Forestry and Wildlife; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Debris Program
» Education
Michelle Kapana-Baird; Project S.E.A. Link; Pacific Whale Foundation
» Non-Government Organization
Blue Water Campaign (Sierra Club); Hanalei Watershed Hui; Surfrider Foundation; Hui Malama O Pupukea-Waimea
» Lifetime Achievement
Teresa Tico; Kelson "Mac" Poepoe
The program will feature a Hawaiian chant created and performed by kumu hula Carla Akiona. Attendees will also be able to view the "Winners Circle" of nominated project.
Tickets are $30 per person, or $35 after Sept. 14. Reserved tables are available for parties of 10. Visit www.hawaiireef.org and click on "Participate to Celebrate."
For information, contact Laleen Ramiscal, special events manager of Hawaii Pacific Entertainment, at 237-3674 or e-mail laleen@hawaiipacificentertainment.com.