Appreciated on Maui

Through June 30, 2003, kama'aina staying in a garden-view room at the Westin Maui will enjoy a reduced rate of $149 per night. The published rate for this room is normally $380 per night.

Call 921-4655 and ask for the KAMSPC (kama'aina appreciation) rate. Proof of Hawaii ID is required, and a valid Hawaii license or state ID must be presented upon check-in. The rate is based on availability ,and resort fees may apply.

Located on 12 oceanfront acres on Kaanapali Beach, The Westin Maui features 15- and 20-foot waterfalls and an 87,000-square-foot pool area, including two water slides. In addition, the hotel offers a full service spa, salon and fitness center, and award-winning beachfront dining. More information is available at www.westinmaui.com

Canoe due at Hyatt

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa will receive a new canoe to add to its collection of Hawaiian artifacts in conjunction with its sponsorship of the International Festival of Canoes. The canoe, built by master carver Ray Bumatay, will arrive on May 25.

The celebration will begin as the canoe is paddled to the shore, accompanied by a conch shell blower, hula dancers, lei greeters, food, music and free canoe rides for resort guests.

The festival, one of Maui's cultural heritage events, honors the canoe that united all of Polynesia. The event draws master carvers from Marshall Islands, Tonga, Cook Islands, New Zealand and Hawaii.

Bumatay and his team will be at Lahaina's Banyan Tree Park through Friday, carving the canoe from a solid log, using both ancient and modern tools.

Carvers will be honored Thursday during the resort's "Drums of the Pacific" luau.

The festival wraps on Saturday with an all-day Cultural Arts & Crafts Festival at Banyan Tree Park, 6 p.m. ceremonial launch of canoes at Kamehameha Iki Park, and 5 to 10 p.m. Ho'olaule'a with crafts, foods, and entertainment.

Hyatt accommodations start at $275 per night for terrace guest rooms. For reservations, call 1-800-55HYATT (554-9288).

---