Hooser's Business Experience

Since 1985, I have made a living and provided for my family through my entrepreneurial and small business ventures. When my wife Claudette arrived on Kauai in 1980 we owned little more than the shirts on our back. As we moved forward with our lives, raised our family and completed my college education, we were able to enjoy a comfortable life and accumulate some assets. Though the business operations went through some very tough years, in the end they were profitable and the success of the business allowed us to purchase our own home, a modest commercial rental property and pay for our children’s education.

In addition to starting from scratch and owning and operating two successful businesses-- a small real estate office Wai’oli Properties Inc., and a publishing company H&S Publishing —I have been a partner in two successful residential development projects on Kauai. Both are on land already zoned for residential development.

H&S Publishing started as a labor of love in 1985 and grew quickly but struggled in the early years with continuing operating losses, mounting debt and tax problems. The business first began getting on its feet and earning a profit in 1992 and then was nearly closed down by Hurricane Iniki. In 1996, the partners entered into a tax settlement with the State, paid 100% of the taxes owed, avoided bankruptcy and continued building the business, determined to achieve success. Ultimately, the partners re-organized, expanded and streamlined business operations, eventually building the company into a profitable and successful enterprise. In 2003, I sold my 1/3 ownership interest in the business to the remaining partners. All taxes were fully paid and the business was profitable at the time of my departure.

During the time in business, the hard work and commitment of my partners and myself was formally acknowledged via numerous awards and recognition including:

• 1992 U.S.Small Business Administration: Kaua'i Media Advocate of the Year
• 1995 Kauai Chamber of Commerce: Entrepreneur of the Year
• 1997 Rotary Club of Kapaa - Business Person of the Year