Member Spotlight

Jack’s Diving Locker Tapped with Small Business Success Award

Chosen from a field of 50 statewide nominations, Jack’s Diving Locker (JDL) is one of 11 recipients of a Hawaii Business magazine 2008 SB Success Award. At the helm of the Kailua-Kona operation are Teri and Jeffrey Leicher.

Companies were ranked using four criteria: longevity; a unique service or product; rapid sales growth or expansion and the ability to overcome challenges and make a comeback.

The 26 year-old company has earned as many awards, including the prestigious Hawai‘i Living Reef Award for “protecting and preserving natural resources” in 2005 and the 2001 American Red Cross Hero of the Year Award for marine environment. In addition to environmental accolades, JDL has been tapped for its retail and service operations.

In 2003, JDL opened a new 5,000-square-foot, custom-built facility with a 12-foot deep pool for diving classes and Keiki Bubblemaker Birthday Parties. For info, 329-7585 or visit jacksdivinglocker.com.

New Owner, Name for Women’s Workout Business

Ladies Workout Express in the Kaloko Light Industrial area has been acquired by Kawehi Inaba and renamed Fit Xpress Hawai’i, Inc. It is no longer part of the Ladies Workout Express franchise, but a locally owned-and-operated fitness club for women.

As president and CEO of Fit Xpress Hawai`i, Inaba will oversee the day-to-day operations of the fitness center. The same fitness philosophy will be adhered to, as under the former company, and all member contracts will be honored. Payments will be processed in exactly the same manner. “I plan to be a hands-on owner; not only will you see me at the front desk when you arrive, but you’ll likely see me working out— enhancing my own level of fitness!” Inaba adds. A long-time member of Ladies Workout Express, Inaba believes this business is one that she can nurture and grow for the benefit of all current and future members. Inaba plans to offer expanded hours, monthly membership incentive contests and “After Hour” functions to include demonstrations by various wellness/health businesses and/or individuals. For more information, phone 327-4380.

2008 Big Island Youth Video Contest
Big Island youth are invited to participate in the third annual Big Island Youth Video Contest culminating with the top ten winning videos being showcased at the third annual Big Island Film Festival on May 17, 2008. Winning videos will also air on Na Leo O Hawaii, Big Island Community Television, Channels 53 & 54.

The Big Island Youth Video Contest is a collaborative project of community members, the Big Island Film Office, and Na Leo O Hawaii Community Television. The contest’s aims are twofold; one is to encourage youth to send an “Alternative to Drugs” message to their peers and secondly, to teach youth a skill that will enhance their lives. Na Leo O Hawaii will be offering free video training classes to youth participating in the 2008 contest.

The theme of this year’s contest is “Alternative to Drugs”. There are two contestant categories; Category I, ages 11-16 and Category II, ages 17-22. The grand prize, second place and third place will be awarded in each category. Each entry will win one of the more than 20 prize donations from the community.

Contestants should produce a 1-5 minute anti-drug video. Prizes will be awarded to videos that show the greatest amount of originality, creativity, and communicating the anti-drug message.

Submissions are due by April 11, 2008. An entry form must accompany each video entry. Entry forms are available at Big Island Schools, Na Leo O Hawaii (Kona & Hilo), and www.filmbigisland.com/videocontest.
If you are interested in being a supporter of this event (cash or a gift of your choice from your business), please contact Na Leo O Hawaii at 329-9617 or the Big Island Film Office at 327-3663