First-class prices to Kalaupapa, but still at a discount

Living on the neighbor islands is generally more expensive than here in Metropolis, but for the people of Kalaupapa, there’s one cost item that’s been a real shocker: airfare.

Residents of the remote community and the National Park Service employees who oversee it are celebrating the news that Makani Kai Charters is taking over the air shuttle service bringing them topside. Now the quick flight between Kalaupapa and the Molokai airport at Hoolehua costs $154.56 for the general public and $77.28 for the peninsula residents. They pay $270 round trip between Kalaupapa and Honolulu.

If that doesn’t sound cheap, the previous carrier charged $498 for a Kalaupapa-Honolulu circuit and $488 to go from Kalaupapa topside and back. Sounds more like a mainland-Hawaii fare. Apparently it’s a federal subsidy for essential services that makes it cheaper. Whatever the reason: Whew!

Brushes with NFL fame

One great thing about having the Pro Bowl in Hawaii is that isle residents get a chance to schmooze with current and former NFL players at events other than the game itself, which this year is on Jan. 29.

For example, former University of Hawaii Warrior Davone Bess, now making his mark as a wide receiver with the Miami Dolphins, is hosting a "Pro Bowl kickoff party" on Wednesday at Tiki’s Grill and Bar in Waikiki, with guests including Mike Pouncy and Clyde Gates of the Miami Dolphins, Bernard Scott of the Cincinnati Bengals and … you?

Admission is $30, with the proceeds to benefit The Bess Route Foundation for underprivileged kids.