Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Begins Renovation

THE RITZ-CARLTON, KAPALUA is getting ready for some sprucing up. Following its acquisition by a partnership consisting of the Gencom Group, Highgate Holdings and Whitehall Street Global Real Estate, the 548-room hotel on Maui is set for a $40 million renovation that will include renovations to all guest rooms, an expansion of the 7,000-square-foot spa and a revamping of common areas. The property, which will continue to be managed by Ritz-Carlton, will stay under the Ritz-Carlton flag. In other news, the property has launched a weekly concert series every Wednesday evenin to celebrate the Grammy winning Masters of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar, Volume 1 CD, which was recorded live at the hotel. Host George Kahumoku Jr., who accepted the Grammy, features a different artist each week. Tickets are $40 per person; call (888) 669-3858.