2 isle firms win safety awards

Two companies based in Hawaii were recognized for their construction safety in the U.S. by the Associated General Contractors of America.

Waipahu-based Albert C. Kobayashi Inc. and Aiea-based Healy Tibbitts Builders Inc. won first and second place, respectively, in the heavy division of the Construction Safety Excellence Award from AGC.

Both were recognized for the strength of their safety programs and overall safety performance during 2008.

The winners — selected by a panel of distinguished construction safety professionals from the public, private and not-for-profit sectors — were announced during AGC's 90th annual convention held last week in San Diego.

Whalers Village welcomes new shops

Whalers Village has welcomed five new additions to its collection of more than 90 shops and restaurants at Kaanapali Beach Resort on Maui.

Billabong, a surf and snowboard apparel shop, is now open at Whalers Village, along with the Maui Dive & Surf on the Beach shop, which rents boogie boards and snorkel gear.

The Totally Hawaiian Gift Gallery, offering unique arts and crafts by local artisans is also open, along with Swarovski Crystals and the Pacific Treasures Boutique.

Island Air collecting food donations

Island Air is holdings its second annual Cloud 9 Food Drive for the Hawaii Foodbank.

The drive will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday with partner Foodland at the Pearl City Shopping Center.

Cloud 9 frequent-flyer members will earn one bonus point for every 10 pounds of food donated to the Hawaii Foodbank. Members can even get enough points to qualify for a free, one-way ticket.

Desired food items include canned meats and tuna, canned meals, soups, vegetables and fruits.