Maui Malls Controversy - County urges no testimony at malls proceedings

October 27, 2012
By NANEA KALANI - Staff Writer (nkalani@mauinews.com) , The Maui News

Attorneys for Maui County have asked the state Land Use Commission to consider excluding public testimony at next week's proceedings to determine if the landowner planning a pair of large shopping centers in Kihei has violated land-use conditions imposed on the property.

The county - which is a party in the case - argues in its request that the Land Use Commission already heard extensive public testimony at an August hearing in Lahaina. It says allowing more repetitive testimony will delay the process.

Opponents of the controversial project argue that the public has never had an opportunity to weigh in on the development since plans were changed from a light industrial park envisioned in the 1990s.

The Land Use Commission, beginning Thursday, will revisit approvals for the 88-acre lot along Piilani Highway that's subject to conditions the body imposed in 1995 when granting a land reclassification from agricultural to urban.

At the time of the change, former landowner Kaonoulu Ranch had proposed a light industrial subdivision for the site. The ranch later obtained a light industrial zoning designation from the county and the area was classified as light industrial in the county's Kihei-Makena community plan that took effect in 1998.

Since then, Eclipse Development Group has proposed building the Maui Outlets and Piilani Promenade shopping centers on part of the site. On another piece, Honua'ula Partners wants to build 250 affordable housing units tied to its master-planned luxury golf community of the same name above Wailea.

Neither developers of the planned retail centers nor the affordable housing project have formally petitioned the Land Use Commission to proceed with their projects.

Attorneys for Eclipse have said commercial uses were always part of the plans for the site, and that the previously proposed industrial park was conceptual at the time.

A challenge from community groups South Maui Citizens for Responsible Growth and Maui Tomorrow Foundation and Kihei resident Daniel Kanahele prompted the Land Use Commission to revisit the site's approvals.

The August hearing in Lahaina focused on whether or not the commission should hold an order to show cause, which was granted and is scheduled to begin 9:30 a.m. Thursday at the Courtyard by Marriott - Maui Airport hotel in Kahului.

The landowners will have to "show cause" as to why the property should not revert to its former land use classification or be changed to a more appropriate classification.

The county's motion to exclude public testimony is scheduled to be considered first Thursday morning.

"The Land Use Commission heard extensive public testimony at the hearing on Aug. 24, in which a broad spectrum of views were expressed by public witnesses," county attorneys wrote in support of the motion. "Over the course of several hours, public witnesses gave testimony in favor of, and against, the proposed shopping mall and affordable housing project at issue in this proceeding. . . . Allowing the same public witnesses to testify again, or allowing testimony from new witnesses reiterating points made by previous witnesses, would be unduly repetitious."

Fourteen people signed up to testify at that August meeting, according to Land Use Commission Chief Clerk Riley Hakoda.

The county's motion also argues that an order to show cause proceeding is judicial in nature and, therefore, exempt from the provisions of the state's Sunshine Law, or open meetings law.

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Christie’s International Real Estate Announces Partnership with Art Miami

World’s leading luxury real estate network introduced as “Official Real Estate Partner” for 2012 Art Miami & CONTEXT Art Miami Fairs

NEW YORK, NEW YORK (October 17, 2012) – Christie’s International Real Estate, the world’s leading luxury real estate network, and Art Miami, Miami’s original and longest-running contemporary art fair, today announced that Christie’s International Real Estate will serve as the "Official Luxury Real Estate Partner" for Art Miami, taking place December 4 through 9 in South Florida during what is known as Art Week. The sponsorship extends to Art Miami’s new sister event, CONTEXT Art Miami, an emerging and cutting-edge contemporary art fair that will be adjacent to the Art Miami Pavilion.

Thousands of collectors, dealers, curators, and artists worldwide will converge in Miami to participate in the 23rd annual and globally acclaimed event. With the combination of Art Miami's and CONTEXT's exhibiting galleries, the city’s trendy Wynwood Arts District will be transformed into a thriving international destination, featuring 190 galleries from 21 countries within 250,000 square feet of curated indoor and outdoor exhibition space. The outdoor entertainment area connecting the two fairs will include a café and bar, performance stage and curated projects.

Throughout the duration of the fair, Christie’s International Real Estate will host a booth to showcase luxury residential real estate offerings, affording Art Miami visitors an appreciation of the global scope of the spectacular homes represented by its network of Affiliates. On display will be properties from the 127 brokerages from across the globe, which comprise the Christie’s International Real Estate network. Nine firms from the network are co-sponsors and will be on site during the weeklong event. They are:

• Esslinger-Wooten-Maxwell Realtors in Miami
• Premier Estate Properties in Boca Raton
• Michael Saunders & Company in Sarasota
• Hilton & Hyland Real Estate in Beverly Hills
• Pacific Union International in San Francisco
• Sibarth Real Estate in Saint Barthélemy
• Landscope-Christie’s International Real Estate in Hong Kong
• Illustrated Properties Real Estate in North Palm Beach
• Joshua & Co. in Aspen 

Art Miami and CONTEXT are held in custom designed state-of-the-art pavilions in Midtown Miami, within the evolving Wynwood Arts District of Miami. The Fairs will collectively showcase the best in emerging, cutting-edge, contemporary and modern art. This includes paintings, drawings, sculpture, photography, video, new media, and prints from Europe, Asia, Latin America, India, the Middle East, and the United States, in addition to numerous specially curated exhibitions.

“The Christie’s brand is an iconic symbol in the world of fine art,” added Nick Korniloff, Director and Partner of Art Miami. “Our clients have many commonalities. These individuals are not only accustomed to traveling abroad in search of quality works of contemporary art, but often own multiple homes in luxury destinations. It is truly an ideal relationship.”

Dubbed by many as the new contemporary art capital of the world, Miami’s evolution as an international center of the arts has mirrored the city’s growth as a true global destination. A recent report noted that Miami International Airport had more international flights than any other airport in the nation. Miami is home to more than 1,400 multinational corporations with regional operations throughout the city. 

“Ours is the only real estate network owned by a fine art auction house,” says Bonnie Stone Sellers, Chief Executive Officer. “Connecting fine art with luxury real estate is at the core of the distinct synergy we offer our clientele and our Affiliates worldwide. We look forward to participating in this renowned and internationally celebrated event and introducing to Art Miami’s audience the highest levels of client service and luxury expertise in residential real estate that our name represents.”

About Christie’s International Real EstateChristie’s International Real Estate is an invitation-only Affiliate network composed of the world’s most proven and qualified real estate specialists. The company has central hubs in London, New York, and Hong Kong; field offices in Beverly Hills, California, Chicago, Illinois, and Palm Beach, Florida; and approximately 127 Affiliates in Europe and the U.K.; North, Central, and South America; and the Caribbean as well as Asia, Africa, and Oceania. The company has recently embarked on an aggressive expansion programme to identify exceptional brokerages in key markets with an aim to invite the most deserving to join our network of luxury real estate specialists. In the past six months alone, the network has added new Affiliates in Hong Kong, the United States, Europe, Africa, Canada, and the Caribbean. For additional information about Christie’s International Real Estate, please visit www.christiesrealestate.com. 

About Art MiamiMiami’s longest running contemporary art fair, Art Miami will run from December 4 through December 9, 2012. As the anchor art fair to the City of Miami, the fair will return with a compelling array of modern and contemporary artwork from over 120 international galleries. Art Miami will be held in a state-of-the-art 125,000-square-foot pavilion in Miami’s burgeoning Wynwood Arts District. Art Miami’s highly anticipated Opening Night VIP Preview, on Tuesday, December 4, 2012, will benefit the Miami Art Museum. (www.art-miami.com). 

About CONTEXT Art MiamiMiami’s newest emerging and cutting-edge living artist contemporary art fair will coincide with the 23rd edition of Art Miami. Trendsetting galleries from around the globe will exhibit in a state-of-the-art 45,000-square-foot pavilion directly adjacent to Art Miami. CONTEXT will feature a curated group of 65 galleries representing exceptional emerging and mid-career artists, including solo artist installations, immersive environments, curated projects, and multimedia exhibits. CONTEXT’s highly anticipated Opening Night VIP Preview, on Tuesday, December 4, 2012, will benefit the Miami Art Museum. (www.contextartmiami.com)

Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua to celebrate 20th anniversary

Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua to celebrate 20th anniversary
October 11, 2012
Lahaina News

KAPALUA - To celebrate its 20th anniversary this month, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua will host a weekend of cultural events on Oct. 18-21.

Offered in partnership with Island Air, Troon Golf and Hawaiian105 KINE Radio, a portion of the proceeds from the weekend's events will benefit the Lahaina Complex After School Tutor Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free after school math, reading and history tutoring for West Maui students in grades 3-8.

Kicking off the weekend will be a Celebration Ho'olaule'a on Thursday, Oct. 18, in the Alaloa Lounge with a meet and greet hosted by local television and radio favorites Billy V and Bruddah Wade.

Reichel

Hawaiian105 KINE Radio will broadcast its Aloha Friday morning show live at the hotel with interviews with renowned musician Keali'i Reichel and hotel Hawaiian Cultural Advisor Clifford Nae'ole.

Guests may also experience the Aloha Friday luncheon show featuring musicians Willie K and Napua Makua.

Events on Saturday, Oct. 20, will begin with an E Ala E Ceremony. Join Nae'ole in this traditional sunrise ceremony to greet the dawn and rejuvenate your spirit.

Other activities on Saturday include the 20th Anniversary Golf Tournament (friendly competition on the scenic Bay Course), Maunalei Magic Hike Exploration (trained hike leaders will share their knowledge of Hawaii's natural and cultural history), and The Legacy Finale with live entertainment by Nuff Sedd. Mingle with local musicians and radio favorites while enjoying food and cocktail specials. Music and camaraderie will continue in the lobby bar for the after-hours fun.

On Sunday, Oct. 21, the weekend will conclude with the Fond Farewell Celebration Breakfast. Enjoy breakfast of fine cuisine at The Terrace Restaurant, which offers a full breakfast buffet with ocean views.

For additional information on this special weekend, call 665-7089. Select events require advance reservations.

In celebration of its past, present and future, the hotel is offering a "Legacy of Aloha" accommodations package through Dec. 18.

Deluxe accommodations will be offered at 20 percent off the nightly rate, including a commemorative gift and Kapalua insider's guide.

Rates for the "Legacy of Aloha" package start at $415 per night; to register, call (800) 262-8440 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/Kapalua.

Exceptional Penthouse Triplex in Storied New York City

Exceptional Penthouse Triplex with a Storied New York City History Hits the Market for US$6,250,000

A rare opportunity has become available to own a piece of New York history—a magnificent penthouse apartment offering three floors of elegant living and cultural significance. Ideally located at 863 Park Avenue, this classic Renaissance Italian palazzo masterpiece is now offered for sale for US$6,250,000. 

Built in 1908 by Pollard & Sternman and developer William J. Taylor, 863 Park Avenue has a storied history of more than a century with musicians, artists, and high society gracing the home over the years. At the turn of the 20th-Century, New York underwent a revolution in sophistication. It was an era of change, and the wealthy began moving from their luxurious mansions downtown to seek a different style of living on the Upper East Side. The idea of the apartment house was in vogue, with talented and visionary architects experimenting with bold new designs. 

Upon completion in 1908, 863 Park Avenue became the example for upper-class apartment houses. A 12-story building, its Herculean columns, graceful Travertine marble lobby, limestone façades, and grand cornices are preserved perfectly to this day with renovations completed in 1998 to its façade and windows.

863 Park carries with it not only the provenance of its architecture, but the history of its residents as well. Purchased at construction by socialite Frances Guthrie, the three floors at the very top of the building were known around New York as the “Guthrie Apartment”, and many enjoyed the double height ceilings, expansive south-facing window, and grandly proportioned formal spaces. In the 1920s Guthrie sold to Earnest Schelling who, with society architect Mott B. Schmidt, transformed the apartment into a showplace. To remind him of his family roots in Switzerland, Schelling commissioned acclaimed American artist Allyn Cox to paint a mural in the new marble entrance gallery of the glowing shores of Lake Geneva and the snowy peaks of the Alps beyond. Schelling, a world renowned pianist and composer, believed “Beauty is a thing not of a period or style, but of the intangibles—form, texture, and color,” a concept which seems very modern today. In 1939 he married Peggy Marshall, a niece of Vincent Astor and the stepdaughter of philanthropist Brooke Astor. Mrs. Schelling later married Janos Scholz, a gifted fifth-generation cellist, art collector, and teacher. During this period, the apartment was hung with important art works now in major museums, and witnessed one of the first live television concert broadcasts from a private home.

Within its column-flanked doorway and limestone walls, many great musicians, intellectuals, patrons of the arts, and members of society enjoyed these rooms, giving them a vitality and history tangible to this day.

This exceptional penthouse triplex remains in pristine prewar condition. Its six woodburning fireplaces and wood-panelled library are ideal for quiet reflection. The dining room, decorated with hand-painted 18th-Century wallpaper, can easily accommodate 20 guests and is well served from an ample kitchen and pantry. Original architectural details, beautiful hardwood floors, and an expansive floor plan further distinguish this unique apartment. A secluded top floor offers space for work or family life while southern and western exposures on high floors provide bright natural light and unobstructed cityscape views. It is a truly remarkable property with a refined history waiting for the right buyer to make it their home.

This magnificent residence is offered for sale by Brown Harris Stevens with international marketing services provided by Christie’s International Real Estate through its Bespoke Marketing Program.

Rimontgó Property to be Featured in Ridley Scott’s Latest Movie

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Pictured above: Ridley Scott's film crew shoots at the luxurious Monte Pego villa as part of the director's latest film, The Counselor

If location, location, location is a much used phrase in the real estate business, it is equally important in the movie industry. Having announced his intention to return to Spain's Costa Blanca to film his latest project, The Counselor – featuring Cameron Diaz, Brad Pitt and Javier Bardem - director Ridley Scott was keen to find a modern, luxurious property that would be a believable residence for one of the wealthy characters. 

Bearing these criteria in mind, the location scouts approached Christie's International Real Estate exclusive Affiliate Rimontgó for some suggestions and ideas, which the company, being a specialist in top quality property, was happy to provide.

It was eventually agreed that a beautiful villa in Monte Pego represented everything that the production team was looking for. From its elevated position, this astonishing property is a masterpiece of imaginative architecture and affords excellent views of the Mediterranean. Located approximately 30 kilometres from Jávea, and featuring a 2,113 square meter build size on a 12,000 square meter plot, this nine bedroom home matches anything that could be found in Beverly Hills.

Some of the most striking features are the two enormous living spaces that lead on to the exterior throughout, a private spa that includes an indoor pool, sauna and Turkish bath and a kitchen that even a three Michelin starred chef would envy. Every bedroom includes en-suite facilities and a memorable rooftop office area, which makes the most of the extraordinary views and features a peaceful Zen garden, capable of calming the most stressed executive.

Outside swimmers in the large infinity pool will find their gaze drawn towards the Mediterranean beyond, while a Jacuzzi provides further scope for relaxation.

This unique residence will allow the purchaser to live like a movie star and interest in this Monte Pego property is likely to be keen when The Counselor hits the movie screens. The property is available for sale via Rimontgó.