Island Hopping

Hotel's tree contest helps local charities

Kamuela, HAWAII » The deadline is coming up to participate in the 17th annual Charity Trees decorating contest at Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows.

The resort is inviting local organizations and charities to take part in the event, which helps to raise awareness and funds for local nonprofit organizations.

Each decorated tree will be displayed in Mauna Lani's hotel lobby through the holiday season. Community members, resort guests, employees and friends and family are invited to view the entries and vote for their favorite tree ($1 donation per vote).

The Charity Trees will be on display starting Dec. 7, and winners will be announced Dec. 22. Mauna Lani will award cash prizes to the organizations whose trees receive the highest number of votes: $2,000 (first place), $1,000 (second place) and $500 (third place). Public donations will be split equally among all participating organizations (excluding the top three winners). All for-profit organizations must designate a charity to receive their donation.

Entry forms will be accepted through Nov. 30. For forms, participation details or more information, visit www.maunalani.com, call Ranie Fukumoto at 881-7002 or e-mail rfukumoto@maunalani.com.