Posted on: Tuesday, December 25, 2001

Library book unusually enriching

By Associated Press

MAKAWAO, Maui — A Maui man has learned there's a lot of richness in books — or at least one book that he opened earlier this month at the Makawao Library.

Paul Gebauer found $68,000 worth of U.S. Savings Bonds in an envelope tucked in the pages of "From Third World to First, the Singapore Story: 1965-2000."

"It was the most money I'd ever seen or had in my hand at one time," Gebauer said.

But the idea of keeping the bonds troubled him.

"I knew it would be the wrong thing to do. I wouldn't be able to sleep at night. I wouldn't be able to live with myself."

So he called the owner of the bonds, who turned out to be an elderly woman in Ha'iku.

Gebauer then contacted police Officer Kris Dixon, who arranged a meeting for the return of the bonds. Gebauer received a $100 reward.

"I'm flattered that he came to me," said Dixon, who has known Gebauer for many years. "From my experience with him, he has strong beliefs. He's honest and consistent."

Dixon said Gebauer, a former well-known surfer, is something of a jack of all trades, doing landscaping, and working as a machinist, musician and artist.

Police asked that the woman not be identified for her safety.