The Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs, Hawaiʻi Island

The 2013 Volunteers of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park were honored at a luncheon this week.
NPS Photo by Jay Robinson

AT A LUNCHEON HONORING HAWAI`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK volunteers Thursday, park superintendent Cindy Orlando praised the 1,193 people who worked 46,757 hours in fiscal year 2013 – which equals about $1,035,200.00 in donations. Varied duties for the volunteers included working in museum collections and archives, monitoring backcountry, visitor service, native forest restoration, trail maintenance, endangered species projects and much more.

“Volunteers not only enrich the visitor experience, but also the lives of our employees,” said Orlando. “They help us with every imaginable task, and we are indebted to their service.”
Citizens interested in volunteering at Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park can see volunteer.gov or contact Kupono McDaniel at 985-6015 or kupono_mcdaniel@nps.gov.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard

KAU’S U.S. CONGRESSWOMAN TULSI GABBARD HIGHLIGHTED Hawai`i’s unique role in supporting relief and recovery efforts in the Philippines in a speech to the House of Representatives.

“In the wake of such a horrible tragedy, the positive that we can find is the outpouring of compassion, support and – most importantly – aloha, from my state toward the people in the Philippines,” Gabbard said. “The Hawai`i Air National Guard is working with the U.S. Pacific Command as we speak, which is based in Hawai`i, as collectively they provide unparalleled air, maritime and ground support to the aid efforts of the Philippines authorities.
“I continue to pray for all those who have lost homes, family and friends and encourage all who are able to contribute in any way possible in this recovery effort.”
American Red Cross is accepting donations at redcross.org.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

INTRASTATE CARGO SHIPMENTS INCREASED 5.2 percent from July through September of 2013 when compared to the same period of 2012, announced Young Brothers, Limited. This increase follows a 4.4-percent rise in cargo during the second quarter.
Young Brothers president Glenn Hong and his lieutenants held their annual corporate planning retreat earlier this year in Pahala.
“We believe this is another indicator that the broader local economy is continuing to gain strength, and we’re hopeful it’s the beginning of a trend that will sustain itself,” Hong said. “We still have some ground to make up to get back to levels seen six and seven years ago.” When compared to the peak-volume year of 2007, Young Brothers’ 2013 volume is still down approximately 20 percent.
During the third quarter of 2013, cargo shipments increased on Hawai`i Island. Hilo climbed 4.2 percent and Kawaihae, 6.0 percent.

Most industry segments finished the quarter with positive comparisons. Increases occurred in shipments of construction materials; renewable energy, including biofuels; automobile rental fleets; beverages and the entertainment industry, which includes tourism-related shippers.
According to the Young Brothers Quarterly Report, overall volume for the first nine months of the year is up 1.8 percent compared to the first nine months of 2012.
On Hawai`i Island, Hilo’s increase in volume for the first nine months of the year was 1.7 percent. Volume at Kawaihae, down slightly for the year, fell 3.4 percent.
In the third quarter of 2013, agricultural cargo volume statewide increased by 5.3 percent over the year-ago quarter, continuing a trend of positive quarterly comparisons. For the first nine months of 2013, agricultural volume rose 5.8 percent.
Ag exports from Hawai`i Island during the third quarter 2013 were up 11.8 percent at Kawaihae and 7.2 percent at Hilo. During the first nine months, agricultural exports from Hilo rose 6.5 percent. Agricultural cargo from Kawaihae dropped 8.5 percent.
Agricultural volume includes only cargo that qualifies for the company’s island product discount of 30 to 35 percent, which applies to locally grown agricultural products.
For more information, visit youngbrothershawaii.com.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

THE KA`U SCENIC BYWAY MANAGEMENT PLAN is now available for public comment at Na`alehu and Pahala libraries and Ocean View Community Association office. “This is an opportunity for residents to read the Byway Committee’s ideas for making our highway a more interesting and pleasant drive,” said committee member Marge Ewell.

Space is available in the documents for comments and suggestions.
For more information, call Elwell at 929-7236.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

HAWAI`I HEALTH CONNECTOR HAS ANNOUNCED THE APPOINTMENT of Tom Matsuda, current Affordable Care Act implementation manager with the governor’s office, as interim executive director. He begins his new role Dec. 9.
Coral Andrews has resigned as the nonprofit’s executive director, effective Dec. 6.
A search for a permanent executive director by the board of directors is now under way, and Andrews is assisting the board with the transition to the interim executive director.

Coral Andrews

“I am honored to have been a part of implementing part of the Affordable Care Act for the people of Hawai`i,” Andrews said. “The Hawai`i Health Connector has some of the most dedicated people I have ever had the honor of working with. Hawai`i is in good hands with this talented group as they continue the mission of delivering access to health care for all Hawai`i residents.”  
“On behalf of the board of directors, I want to thank Coral for her service to the Hawai`i Health Connector during a critical time and against a very challenging backdrop,” said board chairwoman Sherry Menor-McNamara. “Coral played a key role in building the Hawai`i Health Connector, securing funding and building a network of public and private stakeholders throughout the state. During all that work, she never lost sight of our vision – the Hawai`i Health Connector is of Hawai`i and for Hawai`i.”
Hawai`i Health Connector is the state’s online health insurance marketplace.
For more information, see HawaiiHealthConnector.com.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

YOUTH BASKETBALL TEAMS FROM KA`U are invited to compete in the 33rd annual Winter Basketball Classic to be held Dec. 26 through Dec. 29 at Hilo-area gymnasiums.
Each participating team must submit a completed registration packet by Friday, Dec. 6, to the Department of Parks and Recreation’s Recreation Office located at 799 Pi`ilani Street in Hilo. Registration packets are available at the office and online at hawaiicounty.gov/parks-and-recreation.
Registration fees are $60 per team for those enrolling in the mixed-gender division for players up to 8 years old and $80 per team for the other age-group divisions. Make checks payable to Winter Basketball Classic.
Co-sponsored by Hawai`i Police Department’s Hawai`i Police Activities League, or HI-PAL and Hawai`i County Department of Parks and Recreation, the basketball tournament is open to boys and girls 5 to 14 years old.
The Kevin Kai`ea Pavel Skills Challenge and dinner banquet will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27 at Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium in Hilo. Championship games will be played Sunday, Dec. 29, at the auditorium.
For more information, call Officer Joseph Botelho, Jr. at 961-8121 or Darrell Yamamoto of the Department of Parks and Recreation at 961-8735.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

ST. JUDE’S CHURCH IN OCEAN VIEW hosts an interfaith service of thanksgiving tomorrow at 2 p.m. with speakers from the Christian Science church, the Tibetan Buddhist Mission, Wood Valley and Shepherds from Ka`u. All are welcome to share in this nondenominational service and bring some food to share.

Karen Kaufman signed up new Volcano Art Center members at the
opening of Christmas in the Country yesterday. Photo by Julia Neal

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY CONTINUES TODAY AND TOMORROW at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Volcano Art Center has launched a campaign for membership and funding for new programs at its Ni`aulani Campus after suffering loss of income in the recent federal government shutdown. The goal is to top $100,000. Memberships are available at VAC Gallery in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park and at the Ni`aulani Campus in Volcano Village or by calling 967-8222.

All activities and demonstrations at Christmas in the Country are free of charge; park entrance fees apply. For more information, call 967-7565.

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS on Mamalahoa Hwy in Na`alehu hosts a Creche Festival for the entire community a week from today on Saturday, Nov. 30 from noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 1 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
For more information, call 339-7402.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Ka`u beekeeper Eric Belcher won first place in the light, mixed floral division yesterday at the Hawai`i Honey Festival. Photo by Julia Neal

A KA`U HONEY produced by the bees of Eric Belcher, who owns 71 acres off Ka`alaiki Road, the old sugar haul road between Pahala and Na`alehu, took a first prize in the Hawai`i Honey Festival yesterday at Nani Mau Gardens. His Ka`u honey comes from Christmas berry, ohi`a lehua, paperbark and macadamia nut blossoms next to Belcher’s land – from orchards of Edmund C. Olson. Belcher is a member of Big Island Beekeepers Association and manned the organization’s booth at the Honey Festival. His Ka`u honey took first in the light, mixed floral division. Its brand name is `Aina Mele Pure Hawaiian Raw Honey. Belcher is the brother of Wood Valley flower and coffee grower Claudia McCall.

East Ka`u state Senator Russell Ruderman, right, played rock and roll for the Hawai`i Honey
Festival yesterday at Nani Mau Gardens. Photo by Julia Neal

The Hawai`i Honey Festival at the recently reopened Nani Mau Gardens in Kea`au drew more than 2,000 people, said organizers Carol Conner and Chelle Pahinui. One of the participants was East Ka`u Senator Russell Ruderman, who played rock and roll in his band. Displays included honey, candles, soaps and other beeswax and honey products.

The sponsoring organization is Big Island Beekeepers Association. The group assists with the startup of apiaries. It helps with marketing honeybee products, provides community service with bee issues and supports public policy to improve conditions for persons keeping honeybees, including lobbying for the Save Apiary Program Act. It supports the activities of the State Apiculture Specialist and sponsors continuing beekeeping education. The organization recently helped to sponsor the visit of the American Honey Queen Caroline Adams, who gave talks to seniors in Pahala and classes at Na`alehu Elementary School.

Carol Connor (middle) helped organize
the Honey Festival. Photo by Julia Neal

Gov. Neil Abercrombie proclaimed yesterday Hawa`i Honey Festival Day, honoring the organization for remaining vigilant to the education of beekeepers and “promoting the importance of the honeybees to agricultural sustainability, endorsing the vital role pollination plays in the health of our national forests and grasslands, providing forage, fish and wildlife, timber, water, mineral resources, recreational opportunities as well as enhancing economic development for our communities.” The proclamation noted that honeybees are “essential partners of farmers and ranchers in producing much of our food supply, locally,” noting they are “particularly important pollinators for our macadamia nut and coffee industries.” See more at bigislandbeekeepers.com.

To comment on or like this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

“BLESSED WITH SEVERAL SOURCES OF RENEWABLE ENERGY, Ka`u has the opportunity to benefit from Hawai`i’s transition to a more sustainable energy future,” according to a new draft document for Ka`u Community Development Plan. Appendix V4C: Local Economic Development Analysis discusses solar water and photovoltaic, wind, micro-hydroelectric and biofuel.

According to the analysis, while South Point features strong and consistent trade winds, making it one of the best sites in the world for generating electricity using wind turbines, “many other areas in Ka`u are well suited to wind power generation.”
Regarding hydropower, the document states that “Ka`u’s system of irrigation tunnels is uniquely suited for additional development of hydropower systems. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is also a potential funding source for these types of ventures.”

The Olson Trust’s micro-hydropower operation is an example discussed in the document. The system “has the potential to power about 400 homes in Pahala along with operations at the new Ka`u Coffee Mill & Visitor Center and macadamia nut husking operations. The hydropower system costs approximately $1.5 million and has an anticipated three-year payback period, ” according to the analysis.

Regarding biofuel, the analysis cites a 2006 report on biodiesel crop implementation in Hawai`i that suggests that 25,000 acres in Ka`u could be placed into agroforestry operations and that diverse crops be considered “to capitalize on the rainfall range (30” to 80”) in the region.

Ocean View map shows parcels slated for solar energy
development in yellow.

   “Because the fuel-to-energy conversion is more efficient, biodiesel is better suited as a transportation fuel than it is for power generation,” the document states. “Therefore, biofuels are not yet competitive in the power-generation market. In contrast, biodiesel on the mainland is being developed for transportation end use, and the prices are competitive with petroleum-based diesel. The August 2013 State Energy Policy notes that ‘biofuels should be targeted primarily for jet fuel and used in electric generation only as a transitional use.’”
   Specifically regarding the `Aina Koa Pono project, which would construct and operate a biorefinery and use about 13,000 acres in Ka`u to provide the feedstock for the planned biofuel facility near Pahala, the CDP document refers to a comparative analysis of land uses for diversified agriculture and biofuel feedstock production done by a group of students in an industrial ecology course at Yale’s School of Forestry and Environmental Studies. The group concluded that water demand for biofuel feedstock cultivation is higher than for other agricultural activities, “possibly making biofuel feedstock cultivation a difficult endeavor in arid Ka`u, especially on unirrigated lands.”
   Solar is another renewable energy sector discussed. Several solar farms are under development in the Ocean View area, as a result of amendments to a law expediting renewable energy projects, the document states. Also, “solar farms are not addressed in the county zoning code, as such, so solar energy facilities currently only require building permits.”
   In April 2012, building permits were issued to install solar photovoltaic systems on 22 approximately 15-acre parcels makai of the highway at Hawai`i Blvd. Also, Solar Hub Utilities “is expected to begin construction soon on a series of one-acre solar arrays on three-acre parcels in Ocean View makai. An interconnectivity study for HELCO was recently completed, and Solar Hub Utilities is contracting with HELCO as part of the feed-in tariff program,” according to the analysis.

Regarding geothermal, the document states that “continued strong opposition to further geothermal development in Puna may help to encourage interest in other areas such as Ka`u.” The document identifies possible geothermal sites near South Point and between Pahala and Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park in the Ka`u desert.

“There is a range of opportunities for Ka`u to benefit from the strong growth in the renewable energy sector,” the document states. “To date, firms from mostly outside the community have taken advantage of these opportunities. But they have encountered a range of challenges related to technology, land use, transmission and financing.

Possible geothermal sites include ares of South Point
and the Ka`u Desert.

“Proven decentralized, locally managed alternatives may be more appropriate for Ka`u. Smaller systems create more jobs, circulate local dollars within the community and increase local energy reliability and independence.
“Because many renewable energy jobs are in construction, Ka`u’s relatively large workforce of tradesmen is well positioned. However, to take full advantage of these opportunities, residents will have to build the requisite skills in installation, sales, operations and maintenance specific to renewable technologies,” the document concludes.

Planners seek input from the public by Dec. 16. A feedback form is available at kaucdp.info.

To comment on or like this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

“WE HAVE THE GIFT OF GEOTHERMAL ENERGY,” says Richard Ha, owner of Hamakua Springs Country Farms, in a recent Civil Beat commentary. “We are extremely fortunate here on the Big Island to have a resource that most places don’t have.”

   According to Ha, the biggest problem we face today is at the intersection of energy and agriculture. He writes, “As petroleum prices rise, there’s a direct consequence on agriculture and everything that goes into it (fertilizer, chemicals, packing materials, etc.).”
   Ha says Hawai`i Island is far more dependent on oil than the U.S. mainland is: “We generate 78 percent of our electricity from oil, whereas on the mainland, it’s only two percent. As oil prices rise, everything that has electric costs associated with it gets more expensive. We already see this happening.
   “Geothermal costs only half as much as oil, and the resource will be stable (we will be over the ‘hot spot’ that makes it possible) for 500,000 years.

Richard Ha

   “If we increase our use of geothermal over the years as the price of oil rises, we will be more competitive with the rest of the world. This will be good for our island’s ag industry and also for our people, who will see prices go down, instead of up.
   Ha is concerned that the time to start using alternatives to oil is coming quickly. “We have to let science and technology prevail so we can move forward, not stagnate nor fall behind, and we have to get on this now,” he says.
   “Oil is a finite resource, and its cost will rise. There is no question about this. It’s a predictable consequence of what’s happening now, and this is not just my take on it.
   Ha cites Gail Tverberg, an actuary on Peak Oil, who predicts that in two years “we’ll be in really serious trouble.”

He also cites a recent Citibank report predicting that Saudi Arabia will no longer export oil by 2030 because they will be using all their oil within their own country. “The consequence of this would be rising oil prices, and the effects would be felt much sooner than 2030,” according to Ha.

“It might be two years from now, or it might be 20 years, but it will happen, and it might happen soon,” Ha says. “We need to start preparing now.
“Charles Darwin said it’s not the strongest nor the smartest who survive, but the ones that can adapt to change. Let’s survive, and more,” Ha concludes.

To comment on or like this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

ST. JUDE’S CHURCH IN OCEAN VIEW hosts an interfaith service of thanksgiving today at 2 p.m. with speakers from the Christian Science church, the Tibetan Buddhist Mission, Wood Valley and Shepherds from Ka`u. All are welcome to share in this nondenominational service and bring some food to share.

Karen Tyler shows the annual wreath exhibit to Christmas in the Country attendees.
Photo by Julia Neal

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY CONTINUES TODAY at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park until 5 p.m.
A campaign for membership and funding for new programs hopes to top $100,000.
All activities and demonstrations at Christmas in the Country are free of charge; park entrance fees apply. For more information, call 967-7565.

THE TOPIC AT TUESDAY’S AFTER DARK IN THE PARK is Large Earthquakes in the Hawaiian Islands: What You Need to Know. Weston Thelen, a seismologist with USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, presents an overview of damaging earthquakes in Hawai`i, including current theories on why they occur and what we need to know about future large earthquakes.

The program begins at 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. $2 donation supports park programs; park entrance fees apply.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

During Thanksgiving week, one of the many things to be thankful for in Ka`u is the program that provides free food for seniors at Pahala Community Center. Myra Sumida, at right, helps other volunteers with distribution. Photo by Julia Neal

MORE LENDING IS AVAILABLE FOR SOUTH POINT & OCEAN VIEW HOMES. HomeStreet Bank is offering mortgages on owner-occupied, second homes and investment properties located in Lava Zones 2 through 9. Lava Zone 2 is the second highest lava risk area on the island and has been out of reach for mortgages from banks and credit unions.

Hawai`i Island lava zones from USGS

In Ka`u, it includes the lands west of South Point Road and all of Kahuku and Ocean View, except for two narrow strips of land in Lava Zone 1, the highest risk for lava flow. Lava Zone 1 extends from the caldera on the top of Mauna Loa down the side of the volcano through Ocean View. On the east side of Ka`u, Lava Zone 1 extends from Halema`uma`u to the coast in two directions.

The United States Geological Survey came up with the lava hazard zones based on historic lava flows through 1974. The Island is comprised of zones ranked through 1 through 9 – the least risky, based on probability of the land being covered by lava.

For more information, visit homestreet.com or the bank location in Hilo.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

WOOD VALLEY WATER & FARM COOPERATIVE held its annual meeting recently and elected directors and officers. The new board is president Ron Neely, vice president Tuie Strong, secretary/treasurer Vanessa Guy, director Michael Schwabe, director Jeff Silva, director Tim Benko and director Jay Failing. The cooperative provides domestic water for homes and farms in Wood Valley.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

THE BAY CLINIC, INC. will host its blessing and open house for the public on Friday, Dec. 6 starting at 10 a.m. The new facility is located along Hwy 11 on the makai side of the street in Na`alehu, on the Pahala side of the 76 station and Wiki Wiki Mart.

The Bay Clinic's Ka`u Family Health & Dental Center is comprised of the historic building and the new structure next to the highway. The expansion was made possible through the support of state of Hawai`i Grant in Aide, HRSA ARRA, Atherton Family Foundation, Matson Foundation, an `O Ka`u Kakou-sponsored Ka`u Family Fun Fest and individual donors.

See bayclinic.org for information about its services.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

RECENTLY RELEASED DRAFT DOCUMENTS for Ka`u Community Development Plan discuss various sectors of the local economy. One sector it considers is payment for ecosystem services, or benefits people obtain from ecosystems. Appendix V4C: Local Economic Development Analysis says that active efforts to receive payments for ecosystem services complement growth in the agriculture and renewable energy sectors and could attract valuable research and educational opportunities. It suggests that Ka`u could attract research and educational initiatives focused on developing models, frameworks and processes to establish ecosystem services as a viable economic option for rural communities.

According to the analysis, Ka`u’s ecosystem services assets are tied to the richness and diversity of its natural and cultural resources, including Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, state and county conservation land, mauka forests, watersheds and riparian corridors, agricultural lands and coastline and off-shore waters.

The appendix suggests that ecosystem services can assist in preserving the values and rural character of Ka`u while directly providing economic benefits to the community. “Tools for measuring ecosystems services are available, and distinct markets for payments for those services are coalescing quickly,” it says. “Private landowners may already receive direct payments and tax incentives through federal, state and county government programs focused on preservation of ecosystem services.

Payments for ecosystem services are tied to Ka`u's rich and diverse natural
and cultural resources. Photo from Ka`u CDP

"Public landowners may also be able enter the market for carbon credits and other ecosystem services.”
The document considers the possibility that community-based organizations that assist in the monitoring and management of public lands may be able to receive a portion of payments made to government agencies.

   “A more ambitious effort would involve local community organizations, businesses, landowners and farmers seeking compensation for their efforts to preserve, restore and manage natural resources through the markets for carbon credits, water quality trading and conservation banking,” the document says. It gives an example of a local carbon credits system that could be funded through ecotourism. Payments could also be received for protection of recreational assets, such as access for hiking, fishing, hunting or birding.
   Another possibility mentioned in the analysis is a pilot study or project to explore the implications of a voluntary fee for access to specific lands. Local residents could serve as guides to assist with these recreational activities, and a fee could be charged for their services with an additional small fee to contribute to care of the land. “Part of the experience could include educational information on the threats to the natural areas and how the local community is trying to care for the area and protect it against those threats,” the document states. “As such, the community could simultaneously protect important resources, generate revenue to support those efforts and educate visitors.”
   Appendix V4C is available to read at area libraries and community centers and online at kaucdp.info. The public can submit testimony through Dec. 16 using a feedback form on the website.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Wes Thelen

WES THELEN, A SEISMOLOGIST WITH USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, presents an overview of damaging earthquakes in Hawai`i, including current theories on why they occur and what we need to know about future large earthquakes, tomorrow at After Dark in the Park. The program begins at 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. $2 donation supports park programs; park entrance fees apply.

THE ART OF LEI MAKING is the topic Wednesday at Kilauea Visitor Center lanai in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Patricia Kaula shares her knowledge from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Free; park entrance fees apply.

THANKSGIVING FEASTS ARE AVAILABLE throughout Ka`u this Thursday.
   Ocean View Community Association offers its annual meal, open to the entire community, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the community center.
   In Na`alehu, Hana Hou Restaurant presents a buffet from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. along with dinner from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Call 929-9717.
   Also in Na`alehu, South Side Shaka’s Restaurant begins serving its Thanksgiving dinners at 11 a.m. Call 929-7404.
   Kilauea Military Camp’s buffet is from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Crater Rim Café in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, featuring roast turkey, green bean casserole, corn chowder and more. Call 967-8356.

South Point Silhouette, by Mary Goodrich, a member of Volcano Village Artists Hui.

THE 27TH ANNUAL VOLCANO VILLAGE ART STUDIO TOUR IS COMING UP Thanksgiving weekend. Each year, the tour is sponsored by Volcano Village Artists Hui. This self-guided tour includes stops at seven artists’ studios, all within the heart of Volcano Village. Participating members include Erik Wold, Randy Takaki, Debra Serrao, Ira Ono, Elizabeth Miller, Misato and Michael Mortara, Zeke Israel, Emily Herb, Mary Goodrich, Cynee Gillette-Wenner, Pam Barton, Margaret Barnaby and Lisa Louise Adams, along with guest artists Randal Sutton, Scott Mitchell, Chiu Leong and Charlotte Forbes Perry.

   As in past years, a wide variety of items is on display and available for purchase. The artists present their newest work, including woodblock prints, handblown art glass, photography, quilts, handmade books, high-fired functional and sculptural pottery, as well as raku pottery, metal work, handcrafted clothing, paintings, stained glass, jewelry and more. “Plus, it’s a great opportunity to meet and talk story with the artists,” said hui representative Emily Herb.
   A special drawing for pieces contributed by each of the artists is held at the end of the sale. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Maps are available at Volcano Village businesses and at VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com.
   For more information, call 987-3472 or email eherb@hawaii.rr.com.

A CRÈCHE  FESTIVAL will be held for the entire community this Saturday from noon until 8 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Mamalahoa Hwy in Na`alehu. The church invites the community of Ka`u to “celebrate the birth of the Christ child with more than 100 nativities from around the world in an artistic setting and with live music.” The celebration includes local crèche artists, a gallery of nativities, a children’s room with costumes and fun activities “and wholesome activity for the entire family,” says a statement from the church.
   For more information, call 339-7402.

PAHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE takes to the streets of the village on Sunday, Dec. 8 at 1 p.m., starting at the old Pahala Armory at the corner of Pikake and Pakalana Streets. Organizer Eddie Andrade said it will be the 35th anniversary, and all participants and parade-goers are invited to enjoy refreshments after the parade at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on Pikake Street.
   The parade includes Santa and his sleigh and many community groups who weave through the town and stop to wish long-term residents of Ka`u Hospital Happy Holidays.
   To participate, call Andrade at 928-0808.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

During Thanksgiving week and throughout the year, Ka`u gives thanks to its volunteer fire departments. Ron Ebert is captain of Pahala Volunteer Fire Department. Photo by Julia Neal

FAMED CHEF ALAN WONG IS PUTTING his name on a Ka`u coffee blend. Wong has been working with Jim Wayman, of Hawai`i Coffee Co., the biggest coffee roaster in the state, to produce the new Alan Wong 10 percent Ka`u Coffee under the Royal Hawaiian Coffee label. Ten percent of the blend is Ka`u Coffee, and 90 percent is from such coffee origins as Latin America. The main Hawai`i Coffee Co. roasting plant is on O`ahu.
According to Wayman, for pure Ka`u Coffee to put into the blend, Hawai`i Coffee Co. paid $135,000 to Ka`u Coffee Mill and another $135,000 to coffee broker Chris Manfredi.

Gourmet chef Alan Wong with a Ka`u coffee blend that can be
purchased for $5.77 per seven-ounce bag when bought by
the dozen at hawaiicoffeecompany.com.

The label says “Royal Hawaiian, Coffee for Royalty” with the endorsement and signature of Alan Wong on behalf of Alan Wong’s Honolulu restaurant business.

Online at hawaiicoffeecompany.com, customers can choose from French Roast, Medium Roast or Vanilla Macadamia. While pure Ka`u coffee is selling retail at Ka`u Coffee Mill at $27.95 per pound for washed, $35 per pound for natural and $36 per pound for peaberry, the blend can be purchased online from Hawai`i Coffee Co., on sale, for $69.20 for a dozen seven ounce bags – a bulk price of $5.76 for each seven-ounce bag.

The websites says: “Ka`u coffee beans are quickly becoming recognized around the globe for their intense flavor, ideal growing climate and rich coffee heritage on Hawai`i Island.

   “Royal Hawaiian Coffee features a 10 percent Ka`u coffee bean blend developed and endorsed by world-renowned Chef Alan Wong.
   “Wong has four restaurant locations presenting Hawai`i Regional Cuisine throughout the Islands including Alan Wong’s Honolulu, The Pineapple Room and Honu Kai Lani on O`ahu and Amasia on Maui. Since his restaurant doors opened in 1995, Wong has worked with local farmers to harvest the best Hawai`i-grown and raised products.
   “It’s really, really hard to describe freshness, but you know it right away when you enjoy a cup of Royal Hawaiian!” says the website.
   A comment on Hawai`i Coffee Co.’s store website says, ‘My bf Marlene brought some back to me in New Zealand, and it’s a divine blend! :)”
   Wayman said that the Ka`u coffee blend has already been shipped to major stores such as Longs, Walmart, Foodland and Safeway on this island. He said the blend will help build the Ka`u brand name and help spur more sales of pure Ka`u coffee through local brand names and his company as well. He said that he looks forward to thousands of acres being planted in coffee in Ka`u as the market expands. He said he looks forward to being a “friend of Ka`u coffee” and to supporting and participating in the Ka`u Coffee Festival, which is scheduled the week leading up to the Ho`olaule`a on May 4 of 2014. See kaucoffeefestival.com.
   Attending the unveiling of the new Ka`u coffee blend in Honolulu yesterday was Alan Wong and Edmund C. Olson, founder of Ka`u Coffee Mill, who talked about building the mill to provide jobs in the Ka`u community and to establish a local place where farmers can take their Ka`u coffee for processing. Also attending from Ka`u Coffee Mill were John Cross, Louis Daniele and Bull Kailiawa, along with JN Ka`u Coffee owner Leo Norberte.

Hawai`i Coffee Co.'s new product is a 10 percent Ka`u Coffee blend called
Royal Hawaiian Coffee, endorsed by famed chef Alan Wong.

While Hawai`i Coffee Co. is famous for its blends, it also sells pure coffees. Wayman said that he already sells 100 percent Ka`u coffee under his Lion Coffee brand. He said he sells a 100 percent Ka`u coffee to Alan Wong for his wedding chapel business. Wayman’s company owns Royal Kona Coffee, Lion Coffee and Hawaiian Islands Tea Co.

   A story by Stephanie Silverstein in Pacific Business News yesterday afternoon said that “Hawai`i Coffee Co. has been working with Wong for more than two years to develop the line.” Wayman said supply was an issue because the Ka`u coffee region is only 600 acres.
   The Silverstein story quotes Wayman talking about expansion of Ka`u coffee. “We’d like to see them have three or four thousand acres, and we’d like to help create the marketplace for Ka`u coffee so that those farmers can grow their product and prosper, make money and have a great future. We’re very pleased that we can introduce these new Ka`u coffee blends that allow us to bring Ka`u coffee at an affordable price point that everyone in Hawai`i can afford to buy and enjoy in their homes, thereby creating that marketplace.”
   Wayman told PBN that he “worked hard for many years to develop and promote Kona coffee as a brand, and now he sees the opportunity to do the same for Ka`u coffee in the next decade. He wants to give Ka`u region farmers and the Ka`u Coffee Mill enough business to help the Ka`u coffee region grow from a few hundred acres into thousands of acres,” the story reports.
   PBN also reports on Ka`u Coffee Mill founder Ed Olson saying that it is a great advancement to have Wong’s name attached to the coffee. “It means everything to the farmers,” Olson said, according to PBN. “The mill has been a big help to them. Now they have identity; they have a local place to get their products processed. This Alan Wong endorsement is just another leap ahead, so it’s great for the farmers.”
   See more at bizjournals.com/pacific.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard received a 2013 John F.
Kennedy New Frontier Award yesterday.

KA`U’S U.S. REP. TULSI GABBARD RECEIVED a 2013 John F. Kennedy New Frontier Award yesterday. Jack Schlossberg, President John F. Kennedy’s grandson and a member of the New Frontier Award Committee, presented the award during a ceremony at the Institute of Politics at Harvard’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.

“It is truly humbling to receive this honor, as the message and example of servant leadership set by President Kennedy is one I hold close and which continues to inspire me and an entire generation,” Gabbard said. “As we reflect on President Kennedy’s call to service, we understand his indelible mark on the American people, past, present and future, and will forever remember his dedication to public service and working for the greater good. I will continue to strive to uphold his example of servant leadership and honor his life and sacrifice in my service to the people of Hawai‘i and our nation.”

The John F. Kennedy New Frontier Awards were created by the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation and the Harvard Institute of Politics to honor Americans under the age of 40 who are changing their communities and the country with their commitment to public service.

Gabbard received the Fenn Award, one of the two annual New Frontier Awards. It recognizes a young elected official whose work demonstrates the importance of elective service as a way to address a public challenge or challenges. This award is presented in honor of Dan Fenn, the Kennedy Library’s first director and a former member of President Kennedy’s staff.

The second 2013 John F. Kennedy New Frontier Award was given to Charles Best, founder and CEO of DonorsChoose.org, an online charity that enables individuals to provide direct support to teachers and students in public schools.

Candidates' contributions and expenditures can be tracked on a new data
visualization app. This example shows Ka`u Council member Brenda Ford's
data from the last election cycle. Ford chose public funding for her campaign.

THE HAWAI`I CAMPAIGN SPENDING COMMISSION has launched its new data visualization app. The data visualizations were created in partnership with the state Office of Information Management and Technology, the state’s Information & Communication Services Division and Socrata, a Seattle-based software company that specializes in democratizing access to government data.

This tool allows viewers to study charts of a candidates’ campaign spending data for a particular election period. Pie charts show candidates’ contributions to see how much and what percentage of their contributions are funded by individuals, noncandidate committees, political parties, immediate family members, etc. Viewers can also see how much and what percentage of a candidates’ contributions are coming from in-state versus out-of-state, from which states and zip codes, as well as by geographical location.

There is also a visual chart showing how much and what percentage of candidates’ contributions are $1,000 or less and more than $1,000.

As for campaign expenditures, a pie chart shows how much and what percentage of a candidate’s spending was for advertising, food & beverage, printing, professional services, surveys/polls/voter lists, etc., as well as a chart showing in-state versus out-of-state spending.

See hawaii.gov/campaign.

WES THELEN, A SEISMOLOGIST WITH USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, presents an overview of damaging earthquakes in Hawai`i this evening at After Dark in the Park. The program begins at 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. $2 donation supports park programs; park entrance fees apply.

PATRICIA KAULA SHARES HER KNOWLEDGE of the art of lei making tomorrow at Kilauea Visitor Center lanai in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Free; park entrance fees apply.

Randy Takaki is a member of Volcano Village Artists Hui and participates in
the group's upcoming studio tour.

THE 27TH ANNUAL VOLCANO VILLAGE ART STUDIO TOUR takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Each year, the tour is sponsored by Volcano Village Artists Hui. This self-guided tour includes stops at seven artists’ studios in Volcano Village. The tour features a wide variety of items on display and available for purchase.

A special drawing for pieces contributed by each of the artists is held at the end of the sale. Maps are available at Volcano Village businesses and at VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com.

For more information, call 987-3472 or email eherb@hawaii.rr.com.

A CRÈCHE FESTIVAL takes place Saturday from noon until 8 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Mamalahoa Hwy in Na`alehu. The celebration includes works by local crèche artists, a gallery of nativities, a children’s room with costumes and activities for the entire family.

For more information, call 339-7402.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Hawai`i Wildlife Fund is now collaborating with Recycle Hawai`i in efforts to clean up the Ka`u Coast. Photo from HWF

SOME MEMBERS OF THE COUNTY Agriculture Advisory Commission have concerns about safety and liability regarding a new state law that exempts nonresidential structures on farms from building permits and plan reviews, according to a story in West Hawai`i Today.
   The law, which went into effect July 1, allows buildings not intended for living space to be built without permits on ag-zoned commercial farmland.
   At its meeting yesterday, the commission asked for a report from the county Department of Public Works for its next meeting on Dec. 17.
   Reporter Nancy Cook Lauer said commissioners also asked whether the county code needs to be changed to accommodate the new state law.
   Concerns expressed by the commission include compliance with setback rules, inspection and enforcement of the law to ensure people aren’t illegally living in structures.
   “The intent of the law was right and useful, but you know there are abuses and regulatory overlaps,” Jeff Melrose, program development officer for the county Department of Research and Development, told Cook Lauer.

See westhhawaiitoday.com.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Helicopter spraying to kill a macadamia pest resumed this morning around Pahala
following aerial spraying on Oct. 23. Photo by Julia Neal

HELICOPTERS OVER PAHALA macadamia orchards were no emergency this morning, except for their role in fighting off a macadamia pest. For the second time since Oct. 21, Royal Hawaiian Orchards sprayed pesticides from the air using a Paradise Helicopter. Spraying from helicopter is more targeted that the old style of spraying by crop dusters, reducing overspray onto adjacent properties. The helicopter can fly as low as ten feet above the canopy of the macadamia orchards. The target is a scale, called Eriococcus Ironsidei William, which was first found in South Kona in 2005.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

KA`U FARM BUREAU holds its annual meeting on Monday, Dec. 9 at 6 p.m. at Pahala Community Center. Officers will be elected. Current officers are president Chris Manfredi, vice president Phil Becker, treasurer Lorie Obra and secretary Brenda Iokepa-Moses. Farmers and businesses that work with farmers are invited to join. The Farm Bureau testifies on behalf of its members to county and state government, assists with the Ka`u Coffee Festival, operates a website at kaucoffeeexchange.com, organizes education for farmers and hosts speakers for public meetings.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

AN NEW EARLY LITERACY MOBILE APP by UH-Manoa College of Education allows young children to do art in virtual coloring books, interact with phonetics exercises and learn about Hawai`i’s culture.

   The Pihana ABCs mobile app was recreated from an early literacy coloring book that many state elementary schools use. It’s the first app developed by the Piha Pono project, funded by the U.S. Department of Education’s Native Hawaiian Education program.
   Developers hope the app makes the literacy tools more accessible to families and schools and more engaging for children. It includes exercises to help develop phonetics, alphabetic understanding and vocabulary.
   According to a press release, it helps prepare kids for the literacy expectations outlined in the new English and language arts Common Core State Standards.
   The app is available for free on Apple and Android tablets.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Ka`u Army veterans Robert Williams and Peter Anderson presented a binder of signatures and messages of gratitude to officials at Pohakuloa Training Area. Anderson designed the binder's cover. Photo from Peter Anderson

KA`U ARMY VETERANS PETER ANDERSON AND ROBERT WILLIAMS on Monday presented a binder containing signatures and short notes of appreciation to Lt. Col. Eric Shwedo, commander of Pohakuloa Training Area and his Sergeant Major Lutzen, who said they would place the binder in the recreation hall where it could be viewed by troops that come to the area as part of their training.

The signatures and messages were collected from many Ka`u residents wanting to show their gratitude directly to our servicemen and servicewomen and their families for the risks they take in order to protect all the families in Ka`u and in our nation, Anderson said.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

HAWAI`I WILDLIFE FUND EXTENDS A MAHALO to the 73 participants of Saturday’s beach cleanup event from Awawaloa to Lalahala, south of Ka`alu`alu Bay. They removed approximately 18,792 pieces of marine debris in 54 large trash bags weighing almost one ton from along this 1.5-mile stretch of coastline. As always, most of the debris collected – almost 90 percent – was plastic.
During the event, HI Kombucha donated five growlers of their Citrus Breeze Kombucha to participants.

For this cleanup and in the future, HWF is partnering with Recycle Hawai`i and the state Department of Health to separate some of the marine debris collected that would otherwise be bound for the landfill to a higher purpose. At this cleanup, volunteers sorted five large bags of recyclable materials for Method and the transfer station’s mixed recycling bin. Also, materials were handpicked for several debris artists including Don Elwing, Pam Longobardi and Kathleen’s Nurdle In the Rough.
HWF’s next Ka`u Coast cleanup is Saturday, Feb. 8. Sign up with coordinator Megan Lamson at kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com or 769-7629.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

THANKSGIVING FEASTS ARE AVAILABLE throughout Ka`u tomorrow.

   Kilauea Military Camp’s buffet is from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Crater Rim Café in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, featuring roast turkey, green bean casserole, corn chowder and more. Call 967-8356.
   In Na`alehu, South Side Shaka’s Restaurant begins serving its Thanksgiving dinners at 11 a.m. Call 929-7404.
   Also in Na`alehu, Hana Hou Restaurant presents a buffet from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. along with dinner from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Call 929-9717.
   Ocean View Community Association offers its annual meal, open to the entire community, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the community center.

Dina Kageler is a member of Volcano Village Artists Hui and
participates in the group's upcoming studio tour.

THE 27TH ANNUAL VOLCANO VILLAGE ART STUDIO TOUR takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday. This self-guided tour sponsored by Volcano Village Artists Hui includes stops at seven artists’ studios and features items on display and available for purchase.

A special drawing for pieces contributed by each artist is held at the end of the sale. Maps are available at Volcano Village businesses and at VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com.
For more information, call 987-3472 or email eherb@hawaii.rr.com.

KA`U COMMUNITY FLOATING LANTERN CEREMONY, Honoring Past, Present and Future Generations takes place at Punalu`u Beach Park Saturday. The event includes a community Thanksgiving potluck, Taiko drummers, music and cultural dance followed by the lantern release. Floating lanterns for inscribing messages and decorating will be provided to the first 100 registrants. Pre-registrations are being taken by Ka`u Rural Health Community Association, Inc., which is co-sponsoring the ceremony with health insurer HMSA, at 928-0101. Sign up at the Ka`u Resource & Distance Learning Center.

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS on Mamalahoa Hwy in Na`alehu presents a Crèche Festival Saturday from noon until 8 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. The celebration includes works by local crèche artists, a gallery of nativities, a children’s room with costumes and activities for the entire family.

For more information, call 339-7402.

One of many annual Christmas events in Ka`u, Hana Hou Restaurant's
Keiki Christmas Party is on Wednesday, Dec. 11. Photo by Julia Neal

IT’S TIME TO PLAN FOR KA`U’S annual Christmas events next month.

Volcano Festival Chorus presents its Christmas Concert Saturday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Sponsored by KDEN. Free; park entrance fees apply.

   Fall Creativity Day is Sunday Dec. 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Discovery Center Community Hall. Ka`u School of the Arts offers batik, `ohe kapala (bamboo stamp making), dying workshop, sewing, jewelry making and more. Call 854-1540.
   Pahala Christmas Parade winds through town beginning at 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Santa hands out candy to keiki and makes an appearance at Ka`u Hospital. To participate, call Eddie Andrade at 928-0808.
   Hana Hou Restaurant’s Keiki Christmas Party is Wednesday, Dec. 11 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with buffet dinner, lucky number prizes, keiki and photos with Santa.
   Thy Word Ministries offers free lunch plates while supplies last, live entertainment and a craft fair at Christmas in Ka`u on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Na`alehu Hongwanji.
   Ocean View Community Association’s Keiki Christmas Party is set for Saturday, Dec. 14 at 11 a.m. at the community center. Santa arrives at noon with toys and for photos. Call 939-7033.
   Ka`u School of the Arts’ Christmas concerts are Saturday, Dec. 21 at 3 p.m. at Ocean View Community Center and Sunday, Dec. 22 at 3 p.m. at Pahala Plantation House. Performers include Ka`u `Ohana Band, Ka`u Community Chorus, Hannah’s Makana `Ohana, David Matson and Ben Houghton. Call 854-1540.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Youthful O Ka`u Kakou volunteers helped to restore the rock wall at the Henry Opukahaia Chapel above Punalu`u.
Photo by Myra Sumida

COMMUNITY SERVICE ORGANIZATION `O Ka`u Kakou is thanking Ka`u and its funders for volunteering time and money for over $62,000 spent on Ka`u projects and organizations between January and November of this year. Members of `O Ka`u Kakou, known as OKK, acknowledged the many hands that contributed materials, monetary donations and thousands of volunteer labor hours to make their projects successful. “`O Ka`u Kakou could not exist without you the people of Ka`u,” said OKK president Wayne Kawachi.
“`O Ka`u Kakou will assist Hana Hou Restaurant with the annual Keiki Christmas Party on Wednesday, Dec. 11 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Anyone wishing to help is welcome to join in. On Jan. 25, OKK will host its annual Keiki Fishing Tournament. Last year, 324 keiki participated with their families, and OKK served free lunches to 750. Approximately 90 volunteers came out to help, collectively contributing at least 650 hours, Kawachi said.

OKK Pres. Wayne Kawachi
Photo by Julia Neal

Volunteers work on rebuilding the crumbling cemetery wall atop a Punalu`u bluff.
Photo by Myra Sumida

OKK cares for seven area cemeteries. The community group is expanding its improvement projects as part of the quest to keep Ka`u beautiful, said secretary Nadine Ebert. Most recently, OKK, along with volunteers and keiki, rebuilt the crumbling rock wall surrounding the Henry Opukahaia chapel cemetery atop the Punalu`u bluff. Work at other Ka`u cemeteries also includes Wai`ohinu Catholic Church; Keaiwa near Wood Valley; Pahala Chinese and Buddhist cemeteries; Pahala Community cemetery and the small cemetery just outside of Na`alehu. Members maintain weed control, lay gravel, build walls and repair and paint cemetery structures. OKK spent 200 hours this year renovating the Pahala Hongwanji old school building for eventual community use. Hongwanji members are looking forward to sharing the use of this building with the Ka`u community, Kawachi said. Last month, OKK members prepared a garden for the Boys and Girls Club at the Hongwanji. OKK also helped the Pahala Catholic Church fix its rectory stairs and continues to work on improvement projects for Pahala and Na`alehu Catholic Churches.

Keiki and adults clean up six miles of highway near Punalu`u four times a year.
Photo by Myra Sumida

Beautification projects also extend to cleaning six miles of Hwy 11 plus Ninole Loop Road every quarter as part of the Adopt-a-Highway program, which OKK has been doing for several years. The group also cares for the Punalu`u pond, ridding it of invasive plants once a trimester. Breakfast or lunch is always provided free to volunteers.
Another part of OKK’s mission is to work with local organizations to help them achieve their goals, said Ebert. “We often lend our shave ice, pop corn, and hot dog machines for their fund raising efforts.” Groups include Hannah’s Makana `Ohana Hula Halau, Southside youth volleyball, Ka`u High School sports programs such as volleyball and wrestling, and Pop Warner football. OKK also provided labor for Ka`u Plantation Days, Ka`u Coffee Festival, Red Hat Spaghetti Dinner and Keoki Kahumoku’s Center for Hawaiian Music Studies workshops. OKK also donated to $1,800 to the Ka`u Hospital Charitable Foundation. Local students also benefit from OKK’s support. This year the group raised $4,390 partnering with Queen Lili`uokalani Children’s Center to purchase preschool and kindergarten supplies for Na`alehu and Pahala students. Dedicated to working with Ka`u schools, OKK has expanded its reach to include hauling several truckloads of dirt for the improvement of the Na`alehu School garden program. OKK also donated $2,000 for continuing education scholarships.

O`Ka`u Kakou cares for seven historic cemeteries in Ka`u. Photo by Myra Sumida

Working with the seniors of Ka`u holds a special place in the hearts of OKK members as well, said Kawachi. OKK sponsors a bingo luncheon three times a year, with the next one scheduled for February. “This proves to be fun for participant and workers,” he said. OKK continues to provide maintenance for homes and yards of seniors, installing handrails and grab bars, trimming trees and repairing roofs.

OKK also took up the reigns to help keep the annual Fourth of July festivities going. “Sponsoring the Fourth of July activities is a challenging event,” said Ebert. This year the parade included 35 entries, including Miss Ka`u Coffee Tiare Lee Shibuya, Mayor Billy Kenoi, state Rep. Dennis Onishi and Ka`u County Council member Brenda Ford. Following the parade, a mini-carnival included a climbing wall and water slides for the keiki, free shave ice and hot dogs, as well as bingo and lunch for the adults.
“`O Ka`u Kakou would like to thank the many, many people of the Ka`u community for their kind generosity, said Kawachi.
Board members of OKK include president Wayne Kawachi, vice president Walter Wong Yuen, secretary Nadine Ebert and treasurer June Domondon. For more information or to join, contact Ebert at ebertn004@hawaii.rr.com or call Kawachi at 937-4773.

HAWAI`I ELECTRIC LIGHT CO. has joined with its sister companies Hawaiian Electric Co, Maui Electric and American Savings Bank to contribute $100,000 to the Filipino Community Center of Hawaii to help Typhoon Haiyan victims in the Philippines. The donation will be matched by the Consuelo Foundation, through its promise to match up to $2 million.Electric company workers are also making personal donations that will also be matched by Consuelo.
Connie Lau, Hawai`i Electric’s CEO said: “We appreciate the good work of the Consuelo Foundation in partnership with the FilCom Center to support this humanitarian cause “Our thoughts are with the people impacted by this devastating disaster.”

State Rep. Richard Onishi, winner of the Hawai`i Farm Bureau's top legislator award,
walked in the Independence Day Parade this year in Na`alehu. Photo by Julia Neal

EAST KA`U STATE REPRESENTATIVE Richard H.K. Onishi has been named 2013 Legislator of the Year by the statewide Hawai`i Farm Bureau. Onishi serves as vice chair of the Agriculture Committee and member of the Finance, Economic Development and Business, Tourism, and Veterans Military Affairs & International Affairs Committees.
Among his priorities is the development of agriculture on Hawai`i Island with efforts focused on securing funding sources, increasing opportunities for the industry and making it more available and competitive.
The Hawai`i Farm Bureau’s Legislator of the Year awards are given to state lawmakers who demonstrate excellence in leadership and a demonstrated initiative to advance the interests of Hawai`i’s farmers and ranchers.
The recipients are formally recognized at Hawai`i Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting after being nominated and voted upon by a committee comprised all of Hawai`i Farm Bureau County chapters, representing agricultural stakeholders from across the state. This past legislative session, Onishi worked toward the passage of legislation to improve agriculture in the state and especially on Hawai`i Island. The Legislature passed an appropriation of $800,000 to combat the coffee berry borer infestation, $1.5 million for agricultural livestock feed subsidies, $1.75 million for the new farmer and biosecurity loan programs and $600,000 for a biodigester to convert food waste to livestock feed.
Additionally, Onishi has supported $75,000 annual appropriations for two youth education initiatives, the Department of Education’s Future Farmers of America program and the University of Hawai`i’s 4-H program.
“I am extremely honored to have been selected as this year’s awardee — especially in my first year in office. I appreciate the recognition of my colleagues in the agriculture industry and will continue working toward the development and cultivation of our essential agriculture industry,” Onishi said.

Ka`u Farm Bureau's annual meeting is Monday, Dec. 9 at 6 p.m., Pahala Community Center.

Lisa Louise Adams will show her art at the Volcano Hui Artists tour starting tomorrow.
Photo from Volcano Village Artists Hui

THANKSGIVING FEASTS ARE AVAILABLE throughout Ka`u today.
Kilauea Military Camp’s buffet is from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Crater Rim Café in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, featuring roast turkey, green bean casserole, corn chowder and more. Call 967-8356.
In Na`alehu, South Side Shaka’s Restaurant begins serving its Thanksgiving dinners at 11 a.m. Call 929-7404.
Also in Na`alehu, Hana Hou Restaurant presents a buffet from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. along with dinner from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Call 929-9717.
Ocean View Community Association offers its annual meal, open to the entire community, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the community center.

VOLCANO VILLAGE ART STUDIO TOUR is 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The self-guided tour sponsored by Volcano Village Artists Hui allows the community to visit seven artists’ studios and features items on display and available for purchase.
A drawing for pieces contributed by each artist is held at the end of the sale. Maps are available at Volcano Village businesses and at www.VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com.
For more information, call 987-3472 or email eherb@hawaii.rr.com.

KA`U COMMUNITY FLOATING LANTERN CEREMONY, Honoring Past, Present and Future Generations is at Punalu`u Beach Park this Saturday.

Floating Lantern Ceremony this Saturday. Photo by Matt Coats

It includes a community Thanksgiving potluck, Taiko drummers, music and cultural dance followed by the lantern release. Floating lanterns for inscribing messages and decorating will be provided to the first 100 registrants. Pre-registrations are being taken by Ka`u Rural Health Community Association, Inc., which is co-sponsoring the ceremony with health insurer HMSA, at 928-0101. Sign up at the Ka`u Resource & Distance Learning Center.

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS on Mamalahoa Hwy in Na`alehu presents a Crèche Festival Saturday from noon until 8 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. The celebration includes works by local crèche artists, a gallery of nativities, a children’s room with costumes and activities for the entire family.
For more information, call 339-7402.

Discovery Harbour Volunteer Fire Department members include, left to right, in front row, Douglas Castro, applicant Steve Pyle, Liz
Stabo, Capt. T.J. Jamesand in back row, Nels Eklund, Tommy Akin, Meliha Corcoran and fire equipment operator Ken Shisler.
Jeremy Buhr is not shown. Photo from DHVFD Co. 11C Capt. T.J. James

DISCOVERY HARBOUR VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT has received a monetary donation from upstate New York residents whose nephew, a volunteer firefighter, recently died. Robert and Patrice Tomaso plan to send $25 each month to a different volunteer fire department in every state in honor of the late Captain Joe Maben, who collapsed and died of a massive heart attack at age 36 while playing in New York State Firemens’ softball tournament on Aug. 3. DHVFD Company 11C is the first recipient of these donations.

Joe Maben was captain at J.W. Edmonds Hose
Co.in Hudson, N.Y. Photo from Hudson F.D.

   In her letter to Company 11C’s Captain T.J. James, Patrice Tomaso wrote, “Joe loved being a volunteer firefighter and became a junior firefighter at the age of 14. Wherever he travelled, he always sought out the local fire departments and would stop by to take photos and to introduce himself.
   “There is camaraderie within the fire department that is so unique and one that I have never witnessed with any other organization. The support that Joe’s fellow firefighters have given us and his family has been truly amazing and very much appreciated. Joe’s fellow firefighters looked out for him, and now they look after us.
   “It is my belief that in order to try to find one’s way out of such unspeakable grief, you must do for others. Firefighters are truly unique, brave, caring and selfless individuals. May you always get the respect and gratitude you so richly deserve,” Tomaso concluded.
   At yesterday’s Hawai`i County Council meeting, Capt. James asked the Council to accept the gesture as part of the Tomasos’ healing process, and members voted unanimously to accept the donation.
   To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

PAHALA COMMUNITY CENTER WILL GET 24 new tables after a resolution appropriating funds for their purchase passed unanimously at yesterday’s Hawai`i County Council meeting. Ford stated that the 12-foot wooden tables currently in use have “deteriorated to the point of becoming dangerous.” She called for “plastic tables that are safe and easier to handle.” An appropriation of $1,800 will come from District 6 Contingency Relief Fund.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar

HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL HAS VOTED FOR RAISES for persons holding appointed positions in the county’s legislative branch of government. The Council approved raises of four percent, which J Yoshimoto said was tied to recent wage increases approved by Hawai`i Government Employees Association.
Ka`u’s Council member Brenda Ford introduced an amendment to Yoshimoto’s resolution that would have increased the ceilings for each of the step increases for staff. “We have employees who have been here for many years who have not had a pay increase for that time,” she said. However, District 1 Council member Valerie Poindexter pointed out that such increases were above 10 percent. She and others suggested that such large increases should be taken up during budget discussions.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar

KA`U’S U.S. SEN. BRIAN SCHATZ HAS VOTED TO ADVANCE key legislation to provide workplace protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and expand federal equal rights to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered individuals.
   The Employment Non-Discrimination Act, co-sponsored by Schatz, would expand existing protections against employment discrimination to apply to sexual orientation and gender identity.
   Current law protects employees from discrimination based on race, religion, gender, national origin, age and disability.
   The legislation passed a major procedural hurdle in the Senate by a vote of 62-38 and is now expected to pass later this week.

This mamane in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park was
added to the National Registry of Big Trees in 2011.

“Everyone, in Hawai`i and across the country, deserves the right to go to work and earn a good living for your family – this is certainly true regardless of the gender of who you love,” Schatz said. “I’m proud that in Hawai`i we banned workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation, and I’m committed to ensuring these equal rights are protected nationwide.”
“Sen. Schatz has been a passionate advocate for LGBT rights throughout his career,” said Jacce Mikulanec, Policy & Community Partnerships director of Good Beginnings Alliance. “His co-sponsorship of ENDA and his history of support for marriage equality has helped to move Hawai`i and our nation in the right direction.”

Shortly after the Supreme Court struck down a key provision of the Defense of Marriage Act, Schatz said, “Because of this decision, the federal government can no longer tell men and women who they can or cannot marry, and same-sex married couples can now enjoy the same federal benefits as the rest of us. I have always believed in marriage equality, and will continue to do everything in my power to help our LGBT friends and loved ones achieve equality.”
Last week, his wife Linda Schatz testified in support of marriage equality before the special session of the Hawai`i state Senate and Assembly on behalf of the senator.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

KA`U RESIDENTS CAN NOMINATE SELECTIONS for the 2014 National Register of Big Trees. Across the United States, the largest trees of their species join the ranks of the more than 780 national champion trees listed in American Forests’ National Register of Big Trees.

“Hawai`i’s Big Tree Competition is proud to announce that our champion, a mamane in Pu`u Wa`awa`a Forest Reserve, has been included in the American Forests 2014 calendar,” said Department of Land & Natural Resources Forestry Program manager Sheri Mann.
Since 1940, American Forests National Big Tree Program has promoted the importance of planting and caring for trees and forests in helping to sustain healthy ecosystems and life on Earth.

Paniolo leimaker Mona Chow, of Kapapala Ranch, teaches at the Hawaiian Lifestyle
workshop this week in Pahala. Photo by Julia Neal

The program has campaigned to locate, protect and save the biggest specimens of every native and naturalized tree species in the United States. Beyond national champions, Hawai`i’s Big Tree Competition also recognizes the biggest trees in Hawai`i using the same equation as the national program.
Sheri Shannon, coordinator of American Forests National Big Tree Program, said, “Anyone can be a big tree hunter. It’s because of avid tree lovers that we are able to find some of the nation’s biggest trees.”

To learn more about Hawai`i’s Big Tree Competition or how to nominate a potential champion tree, contact Nicholas Joly at 808-586-0915 with the tree’s height, circumference, and crown spread measurements.

To learn more about American Forests’ National Big Tree Program or the Big Tree Measuring Guidelines, visit americanforests.org/bigtrees.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar

VOLUNTEERS CAN HELP REMOVE INVASIVE Himalayan ginger along trails in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Meet at Kilauea Visitor Center. Free; park entrance fees apply.

A FREE CONCERT SATURDAY FROM 11 A.M. TO 4 P.M. at Pahala Plantation House features Hawaiian music masters Dennis Kamakahi, Ledward Kaapana, Keoki Kahumoku, George Kahumoku, Jr., James Hill, Anne Davidson, Bolo and many more alongside students at the eighth annual Hawaiian Music & Lifestyles Workshop held by Keoki Kahumoku and his Center for Hawaiian Music Studies. Attendees are encouraged to bring folding chairs and mats for seating on the lawn. Plate lunches will be available for purchase.

The concert is the culmination of the weeklong workshop where attendees from around the world gather to learn arts of slack key guitar, `ukulele, hula, lei making, lauhala weaving, food preparation and more.

Hawai`i Wildlife Fund is looking for volunteers to load derelict fishing
nets into a Matson container Sunday. Photo from HWF

KA`U RURAL HEALTH COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. sponsors a health fair Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pahala Community Center, with health education, prevention booths, nutritional and healthy food demonstrations, Hawai`i Health Connector enrollment and much more.

HAWAI`I WILDLIFE FUND WILL BE LOADING another Matson container full of derelict fishing nets collected since last December. “This is our contribution to NOAA’s Nets-to-Energy project,” said coordinator Megan Lamson.
Volunteers are needed Sunday from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. to winch and hook the nets and climb up into the Matson container with them. To sign up, contact Lamson at 769-7629 or kahakaicleanups@gmail.com.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Free Thanksgiving dinner drew 439 at Ocean View Community Center yesterday. Walk Off the Turkey event is tomorrow at 9 a.m.
Photo by Melissa Tveter

THE HISTORY CHANNEL’S NEW SERIES AMERICAN JUNGLE misrepresents  hunting in Hawai`i, according to a statement from Department of Land & Natural Resources. DLNR finds the series’ depiction of hunting activities “to be inaccurate, offensive, and in some cases, potentially illegal.” The department has launched an investigation into possible law violations occurring during filming of the show. Activities such as night hunting depicted in the show, both on public and private land, are illegal.

Division of Forestry and Wildlife, which oversees DLNR’s hunting program, denied a permit request last spring for the production to film on state forest lands.

Jonathan Roddy Eric DePeralta and Kalei Fernandez in American Jungle.
Photo from The History Channel

“We denied the film permit request because it failed to provide sufficient details to indicate the show’s content and raised concerns as to possible illegal activities that might be depicted in the series,” stated DLNR chair William Aila, Jr.
“Cultural insensitivity of the series is also a concern to DLNR,” the statement said. “The series depicts ‘clans’ that are fighting over access trails to territorial hunting grounds that inaccurately portray restrictive access to Hawai`i’s public lands, which are held in public trust for the people.”
In the first episode of the series, spears and dogs were used to hunt a cow. “However, in an archival review of more than 60,000 historical documents, there is no evidence that native Hawaiians hunted pigs in the forest with spears, let alone cattle,” the statement said. Cattle are not recognized as game animals in Hawai`i and are illegal to hunt without a special feral cattle control permit.
“Hunting serves important historical, cultural and practical roles in Hawai`i,” said Gov. Neil Abercrombie. “When guided by lawful and ethical hunting practices, hunting supports worthy conservation objectives in protection of native species and habitats against invasive and destructive elements. Portraying our local hunters as primitives demeans our people and their contributions to subsistence and wildlife conservation. This appears to be a fictional ‘reality’ production with no connection to actual hunters in Hawai`i. If we discover any laws or regulations have been broken, we will vigorously pursue legal and/or criminal charges.”

Others expressing concern in the statement are Hawai`i County Game Management Advisory Commissioner Willie-Joe Camara, Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement chief Randy Awo and Inga Gibson, Hawai`i director of The Humane Society.
On the Facebook page for rustyboar.com, TJaye Ailama Forsythe, who came up with the idea for the series, responded to DLNR’s statement: “This is a television show, not a documentary. Television shows have fictional and non-fictional elements to them. American Jungle was considered more of a reality show because these are not actors, and they are not reading from a script. If the show was meant to be an accurate depiction of hunting in Hawai`i, we would have created a documentary.”
See dlnr.hawaii.gov/huntered/2013/11/28/nr13-154h.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Arroya Rivas, of Na`alehu, questions AKP's plan to produce feedstock and refine it into biofuel. Photo by Julia Neal

`AINA KOA PONO’S PLAN to harvest trees, shrubs and grasses from lands between Pahala and Na`alehu and to plant biofuel crops to feed a $400 million refinery to be built off Wood Valley Road has gained more testimony. In a letter to the state Public Utilities Commission, Arroya Rivas, of Na`alehu, questions whether `Aina Koa Pono’s plan is, in fact, pono.
“The use of a good-sounding name (`Aina Koa Pono) to promote a project without allowing appropriate time for an independent (i.e. not AKP-related or funded) [review] of the environmental impact report is not “pono” and does not have the `Aina or, for that matter, the community of people who live close by, in their best interest,” Rivas writes.
“At a time when we need to be move forward with sustainability by empowering the people to grow food, along comes AKP with an idea of a project that struggles with what has been called ‘adolescent technology.’ That is, unleashing the forces of technology without fully understanding the consequences. This is not ‘pono,’ but rather irresponsible and unacceptable.
“The only project worth our cooperation is one where we can look forward to a better life for our children, our elders, and the people who live here precisely because it is, without a doubt, ‘pono’ for the `aina, the air and the water quality. Proven beyond a shadow of a doubt by an independent and extensive environmental impact study. This `aina and the people of Hawai`i deserve nothing less.

“How long can you keep pushing the `aina to produce 900 tons of feedstock every day using invasive species of plants while at the same time applying great and eventually even greater amounts of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers before the same soil becomes infertile? And this as food prices continue to rise, and the demand for food is on the rise.
“Keep in mind, too, that eight or more diesel fuel trucks roaring down Hwy 11 would send toxic fumes into the atmosphere where families and children can be seen strolling. And the fact that we do, after all, have an elementary school in Na`alehu directly right off of Hwy 11 along with a preschool program, a much-used family park and a family clinic. …
“Let’s also consider that 100 or even 300 hundred jobs is nothing compared to the amount and variety of food that can instead be grown in the same area to feed the hundreds of thousands of Hawaiian people who are facing the rise of food prices as you read this letter as well as generate very green and sustainable jobs.

“I urge AKP to put your energies and monies toward an earth-friendly energy base technology if that really is your intention. And I urge PUC commissioners to stand firm in the knowing that without an independent and not AKP environmental study, the commissioners would essentially surrender their responsibility to support projects that are indeed without a doubt pono for the `aina and the people.
“Commissioners, it would be wise on your part to gather information on the truly alternative and sustainable energies available and get informed on what is best for the people and the `aina, or else individuals claiming ‘pono’ will do your business for you and fill their pockets despite the short- and long-term effect to the health of our children, our youth, our elders and the `aina.
Rivas provides links to articles that she says may be “encouraging and educational:” naturalnews.com/023092_corn_ethanol_biofuels.html and livemint.com/2011/03/23001656/Tata-siqns-up-MIT-energy-quru.html.
This and other testimony is available at puc.hawaii.gov. Docket number is 2012-0185.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Bong Aquino loads up donations from Ka`u to be shipped free to the Philippines.

DONATIONS FROM KA`U are on their way to the Philippines, with free transport donated by LBC shipping company. The effort is organized by the Big Island Filipino Community Council, with Ka`u board member Gloria Camba. The deadline for donating goods is over, but money is being accepted through a nonprofit to help the victims of the typhoon that killed more than 5,800 people in the Visayan area of the country.

A well-known person to Ka`u with family affected by the typhoon is economic development expert Margarita Day Day Hopkins, who has long supported Ka`u Coffee farmers. She planned to travel to the Philippines to reconnect with family in the storm-ravaged areas.

To arrange donations, call Camba at 928-8558, Amy Peralta at 928-8470 or Will and Grace Tabios at 929-9993.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Punalu`u is the site of a floating lantern
ceremony tomorrow. Photo by Julia Neal

THANKSGIVING AT OCEAN VIEW COMMUNITY CENTER “was decorated like a five-star restaurant” for yesterday’s community Thanksgiving Dinner, said farmer James Hanka, who grew some of the food that was served there. The community association served 439 people at no cost to those who dined on turkey, local purple sweet potatoes, salads, a variety of cooked vegetables and pumpkin, cherry and apple pies. Many volunteers cooked and served the food. Ocean View Community Association board president Gil Robinson said the group wants to thank everyone who donated and volunteered. A silent auction helped raise money for the annual event.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

WALK THE TURKEY OFF tomorrow, Saturday, with Ocean View Community Association starting at 9 a.m. at mile marker 79 along Hwy 11. The annual event is under the state Adopt-a-Highway program. Association members clean from Iolani Street to Lehua, a two-mile stretch, four times a year.

VOLCANO VILLAGE ART STUDIO TOUR is 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today through Sunday, featuring items on display and available for purchase. A drawing for pieces contributed by each artist is held at the end of the sale. Maps are available at Volcano Village businesses and at VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com.
For more information, call 987-3472 or email eherb@hawaii.rr.com.

KA`U COMMUNITY FLOATING LANTERN CEREMONY, Honoring Past, Present and Future Generations is at Punalu`u Beach Park tomorrow, with a community Thanksgiving potluck, Taiko drummers, music and cultural dance followed by the lantern release. Sign up for a lantern at Ka`u Resource & Distance Learning Center in Pahala or call 928-0101.

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS in Na`alehu presents a Crèche Festival tomorrow from noon until 8 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. The celebration includes works by local crèche artists, a gallery of nativities, a children’s room with costumes and activities for the entire family.
For more information, call 339-7402.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Ka`u Community Floating Lantern Ceremony, Honoring Past, Present and Future Generations takes place today from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Punalu`u.Photo by Julia Neal

HAWAI`I 2050 PLAN gained national coverage in the Huffington Post this week. The analysis by Civil Beat contributor Billy Mason explains a local attitude and practice: “`A`ohe hana nui ke alu `ia translates to mean ‘No task is too big when done together by all.’”

Mason contends that “local-level and state-level initiatives such as the Hawai`i 2050 Sustainability Plan will help to reduce the risks associated with Hawai`i’s current dependence on imported services and products, build resilience to address unavoidable impacts caused by climate change, preserve the aloha spirit and create new economic opportunities in Hawai`i for present and future generations.”
Mason writes that “since the late 1980s, sustainability has been globally accepted and sustainable development defined as ... development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This definition of sustainability can traced to the Brundtland Commission’s concept of sustainable development, which they presented to the United Nations.

“In line with the Brundtland definition and building upon the Hawai`i State Plan conceived in the mid-1970s, the 2050 Hawai`i Sustainability Plan proclaims sustainability to encompass the following criteria: ‘respects the culture, character, beauty and history of our state’s island communities; strikes a balance between economic, social and community, and environmental priorities; meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.’”
Mason writes that “in order to meet the defined criteria for sustainability in Hawai`i, the 2050 Hawai`i Sustainability Plan has designated the following five overlying goals:

Living sustainably is part of our daily practice in Hawai`i.
Our diversified and globally competitive economy enables us to meaningfully live, work and play in Hawai`i.
Our natural resources are responsibly and respectfully used, replenished and preserved for future generations.
Our community is strong, healthy, vibrant and nurturing, providing safety nets for those in need.
Our Kanaka Maoli and island cultures and values are thriving and perpetuated.

Mason puts forth that “some of the elements that are necessary to facilitate the five primary goals of the 2050 Hawai`i Sustainability Plan include generating public and private sector awareness, engagement and stewardship, supporting the growth of local agriculture, developing renewable energy sources and efficient waste management systems, promoting economic development in local context and creating a comprehensive education program.
“Among these elements, education plays the most significant role because it serves as the foundation for the success of the other elements and the subsequent implementation of a comprehensive sustainability plan.
Mason says diffusion of knowledge is “the key to generating public and private sector awareness, engagement and stewardship.” He promotes conducting educational outreach events that present a problem to be solvable and incorporating sustainability into the academic curriculum at all levels to stimulate a shift in behavior of future generations.
Mason suggests that the 2050 Hawai`i Sustainability Plan could set the benchmark for other states to protect the livelihood and lifestyle of their communities.
“The future of sustainability in Hawai`i rests in hands of local communities that are willing to engage in the planning process, demand regulatory action and embrace stewardship,” Mason concludes.

See civilbeat.com.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Natural resource management has the potential for growth in Ka`u, according to a CDP
draft document. Here, The Nature Conservancy's Hawai`i Island director Shaylan
Crysdale discusses rain forest conservation.
Photo by Andrew Richard Hara

PUBLIC COMMENT ON A RECENTLY RELEASED draft document for the Ka`u Community Development Plan is due Monday, Dec. 16. Appendix V4C: Local Economic Development Plan Analysis is available to read at area libraries and community centers and online at kaucdp.info. The public can submit testimony through Dec. 16 using feedback forms found with the reference documents and on the website. The appendix discusses opportunities in various sectors of Ka`u’s economy, including creative, educational and research sectors.

“Due to the area’s significant natural and cultural assets,” as well as growth trends in these sectors, “there is considerable employment and entrepreneurial potential in these sectors in Ka`u,” the document states. “Specifically, potential appears high in the music, cultural activities and natural resource management as well as education and research in agriculture, environmental science, Hawaiian studies and geology.”
The document says that growth in these sectors complements other economic sectors, including agriculture, renewable energy, payment for ecosystem services and ecotourism. It gives an example of creating authentic visitor experiences or creating an educational and research center focused on agriculture and natural and cultural resource management.
“However, growth will require partnerships with and investment from outside organizations like the Three Mountain Alliance, the Department of Education, the University of Hawai`i and The Kohala Center,” the analysis concludes.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

John and Hope Keawe perform next month
at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium.

EVENTS IN HAWAI`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK next month celebrate the holiday season. For all events, park entrance fees apply.

Volcano Festival Chorus presents its free Christmas concert Saturday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at Kilauea Military Camp Theater. Sponsored by Kilauea Drama and Entertainment Network.
Dinner is available at Kilauea Military Camp’s Crater Rim Café before the concert. KMC is open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Call 967-8371 for more information.
Carl Ray Villaverde performs in concert Tuesday, Dec. 10 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium. After spending more than a decade on the mainland teaching `ukulele and guitar at Santa Barbara City College and performing throughout California, Villaverde returns to the islands with his new CD, Hawaiian Magic, on sale at the free show. $2 donations support park programs.
`Ike Hana No`eau: Lauhala Weaving takes place Wednesday, Dec. 11 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Kilauea Visitor Center’s lanai. Members of `Aha Puhala o Puna share the art during this free program, and participants weave bracelets. Lauhala ornaments are available for sale.
Recording artist John Keawe rings in the holidays with his music Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium, and his wife Hope interprets with her hula. $2 donations support park programs.
Na Leo Manu: Haku Mele Ho`ike presents new, original Hawaiian music by local, island songwriters who attended a three-day Hawaiian music songwriter’s workshop with Kenneth Makuakane and UH-Hilo Hawaiian language instructor Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. The free program is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 18 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium.
Kilauea Military Camp’s Crater Rim Café offers holiday buffets. On Christmas Day, Wednesday, Dec. 25, the buffet is from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. New Year’s Day’s buffet on Wed, Jan. 1 is served from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. KMC is open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Call 967-8356 for more information.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Mike and Misato Mortara present their handblown art glass at Volcano Village
Art Studio Tour. Photo from Volcano Village Artists Hui

VOLCANO VILLAGE ART STUDIO TOUR continues today and tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring items on display and available for purchase. A drawing for pieces contributed by each artist is held at the end of the sale. Maps are available at Volcano Village businesses and at VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com.

For more information, call 987-3472 or email eherb@hawaii.rr.com.

KA`U COMMUNITY FLOATING LANTERN CEREMONY, Honoring Past, Present and Future Generations is at Punalu`u Beach Park today from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. with a community Thanksgiving potluck, Taiko drummers, music and cultural dance.

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS in Na`alehu presents a Crèche Festival today from noon to 8 p.m. and tomorrow from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. with works by local crèche artists, a gallery of nativities, a children’s room with costumes and activities for the entire family.
For more information, call 339-7402.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Taiko drummers helped celebrate the Ka`u Community Lantern Floating Ceremony at Punalu`u Beach Park yesterday to honor past, present and future generations. Photo by Julia Neal

HAWAI`I RANKS BEST IN THE NATION according to The Commonwealth Fund Scorecard on State Health System Performance for Low-Income Populations, 2013, a national scorecard that analyzed 30 indicators within four dimensions.
Hawai`i ranks in the top quartile for three of four system dimensions – Access to Affordability, Potentially Avoidable Hospital Use, and Healthy Lives. Hawai`i ranks in the second quartile for the fourth indicator, Prevention and Treatment.
There are currently 292,000 individuals enrolled in Hawai`i Med-QUEST programs, which are administered through the Department of Human Services.

Gene Beck, Matthew Gravela and Demetrius Oliveira bring
music to the post-Thanksgiving dinner at the lantern
ceremony. Photo by Julia Neal

“This 2013 Commonwealth Fund scorecard demonstrates that Hawai`i is on the right track to improving access to affordable health care, and the state Med-QUEST division is leading the way,” said Gov. Neil Abercrombie, who has made healthcare transformation a top priority of his administration. “Our healthcare system supports the optimum health of all state residents by providing a seamless, integrated and comprehensive healthcare system. This approach consistently demonstrates high-quality care and a commitment to cost-effectiveness. It also enhances the patient experience and engages patients in their own healthcare decisions.”
For low-income populations whose standard of living is 200 percent of the federal poverty level, Hawai`i reported the second lowest percentage of uninsured adults, the second lowest percentage of uninsured children, and the lowest percentage of adults who went without health care in the past year due to cost.
Hawai`i also is ranked first for the lowest rate of potentially avoidable hospital use and second for the lowest rate of potentially avoidable emergency department visits for low-income Medicare beneficiaries, and first for the lowest rate of poor health related quality of life for low-income adults 18-64 years old.
“It’s the prevention component that makes the difference,” said DHS director Patricia McManaman. “When vulnerable individuals have access to affordable and reliable medical services, they are more likely to visit their doctor on a regular basis. The Commonwealth Fund scorecard reflects the commitment of our healthcare providers to our community.”

While Hawai`i is ranked the top state, it ranked below average on four indicators – older adult preventive care, surgical care to prevent complications, hospital 30-day mortality and hospital discharge instructions for home recovery.
To read the complete scorecard, see commonwealthfund.org/Publications/Fund-Reports/2013/Sep/Low-Income-Scorecard.aspx.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Movie from NASA/ESA SOHO satellite shows ISON's pass
near the sun. Image courtesy of Lew Cook

THE DEATH OF COMET ISON was prematurely declared over Thanksgiving weekend, says The Ka`u Calendar’s space and stars writer Lew Cook. After the BBC reported that European Space Agency experts “called the death of the comet at about 21:30 GMI” on Thanksgiving Day, a bright light started to grow along the comet’s previously expected course, and the comet appeared to be reborn. “Wow! Comet ISON has brightened a lot in the last few hours!” Cook reported. The comet passed within one solar diameter of the surface of the sun.

“Telescopes saw the giant ball of ice and dust disappear behind the sun but only a dull streamer re-emerge.” The BBC reported that the center of the comet “had gone out with a whimper.” Apparently, however, the nucleus of the comet survived for awhile. Cook reported yesterday, however, that “it appears that Comet ISON has fizzled out. It appears there will be no spectacular show for December. Was the post-perihelion show the last gasp for the comet? I suspect it was,” said Cook.

PUBLIC COMMENT ON A RECENTLY RELEASED draft document for the Ka`u Community Development Plan is due two weeks from tomorrow on Monday, Dec. 16. Appendix V4C: Local Economic Development Plan Analysis is available to read at area libraries and community centers and online at kaucdp.info. The public can submit testimony using feedback forms found with the reference documents and on the website. The appendix discusses opportunities in various sectors of Ka`u’s economy, including tourism.
“Ka`u is a natural draw to much of the visitor profile, including experience-seekers, culture-seekers, adventure-seekers, and those interested in agri-tourism, health and wellness, edu-tourism and eco-tourism. Such visitors spend $90 million per year in and around Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park,” the draft document states. “However, Ka`u currently captures very little of the economic gains from the visitor market.”

Ka`u CDP's draft Appendix V4C: Local Economic Development Plan Analysis discusses
the district's tourism sector of the economy.

The analysis suggests that by pursuing initiatives that preserve Ka`u’s natural and cultural resources, perpetuate Ka`u’s traditions and are scaled to strengthen its sense of community, history and identity, real connections and relationships of reciprocity can be made with people from around the world who visit Ka`u.
“Consistent with the place-based, Native Hawaiian ho`okipa model, the focus should be on:

Place-Based Investments in the protection, preservation, and sustainment of Ka`u’s people, culture, and natural resources;
Agri-/ Eco-/ Edu-/ and Wellness Tourism; and
Authentic Experiences for Repeat Visitors.

“Such a strategy is a natural complement to other growth sectors in Ka`u, like agriculture, ecosystem services, health and wellness and the creative, education, and research sectors,” the document says.

“At the same time, a strategy for developing a place-based visitor experience should account for the following factors:

Contingencies Against Unforeseen External Factors: Because Hawai`i tourism is so sensitive to external factors, any specific visitor strategy should have contingencies included in the approach. Importantly, because the ho`okipa model focuses on place-based investments and authentic experiences, any strategy will first serve the people of Ka`u and therefore benefit the community regardless of fluctuations in the visitor industry.

Potential Increase in Retiree Visitors: As the population continues to age it would be reasonable to expect that the proportion of retirees as a percentage of visitors may increase, which would influence the type of experiences they expect and the associated opportunities for economic development ventures.
Online Presence: To reach the discerning visitor, Ka`u will need a user-friendly online presence for computers and mobile devices.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Walking off the turkey and cleaning Hwy 11 are Ocean View Community Association volunteers Gil Robinson, Mike Last, Cindy Clements and Melissa Tveter. Photo by Mo Clements

WALK THE TURKEY OFF was the event sponsored by Ocean View Community Association yesterday. OVCA takes care of a two-mile stretch along Hwy 11 and cleans it four times a year with volunteers from the community as part of a statewide Adopt-a-Highway Litter Control program. Coming up is the Ocean View Community Association annual Keiki Christmas party on Saturday, Dec. 14 at 11 a.m.

Participants in the lantern ceremony honored their
loved ones, including the late Keala Kailiawa.
Photo by Julia Neal

KA`U COMMUNITY FLOATING LANTERN CEREMONY drew people to Punalu`u Beach Park yesterday. The program, sponsored by Ka`u Rural Health Community Association, Inc. in partnership with HMSA featured taiko drumming, the music of Keoki Kahumoku and kids and the music of Demetrius Oliveira, Gene Beck and Matthew Gravella. Participants built their own small rafts, each with a battery candle surrounded by paper with decorations and writings for loved ones. The lanterns floated in the tidepool near the pavillion and were retrieved at the end of the ceremony. Ka`u Rural Health Community Association President Donna Kekoa said she looks forward to the event continuing next year.

THE KA`U FARM BUREAU'S ANNUAL MEETING scheduled for Monday, Dec. 9 has been postponed until sometime in January, according to Farm Bureau members. During the annual meeting, members will elect officers for 2014. Officers for 2013 are president Chris Manfredi, vice president Phil Becker, treasurer Lorie Obra and secretary Brenda Iokepa-Moses. Farmers and businesses that work with farmers are invited to join. The Farm Bureau testifies on behalf of its members to county, state and federal government, assists with the Ka`u Coffee Festival, operates a website at kaucoffeeexchange.com, organizes education and funding opportunities for farmers and hosts speakers for public meetings. During 2013, testimony from president Chris Manfredi, representing Ka`u Farm Bureau, included opposing GMO regulations, supporting a new water line to serve farmers and ranchers in Ka`u and supporting the overall agenda of the statewide Hawai`i Farm Bureau Federation for which Manfredi was a liaison to the state Legislature.
According to the Hawai`i Farm Bureau website, for its members, the Farm Bureau offers Aloha Air Cargo discounts for ag shipments, medical and dental insurance, discounts of prescription drugs at pharmacies, vehicle insurance, banking through Hawai`i USA Federal Credit Union and the Farm Bureau Bank, a five percent discount on transpacific Hawaiian Airlines tickets when booked online, discounts on Avis and Budget rental cars and at various hotels and discounts on purchasing Chevrolet, GMC and Buick vehicles. See Hawai`i Farm Bureau Federation website at http://hfbf.org.
Annual dues are $95 for the Ka`u Farm Bureau. The application is available at http://hfbf.org/PDF/Membership%20Application.pdf.

Hawaiian Nativity Scene presented by Dorothy Antolin. Photo by Julia Neal

VOLCANO VILLAGE ART STUDIO TOUR continues today until 4 p.m., featuring items on display and available for purchase. A drawing for pieces contributed by each artist is held at the end of the sale. Maps are available at Volcano Village businesses and at VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com.
For more information, call 987-3472 or email eherb@hawaii.rr.com.

HAWAIIAN NATIVITY SCENE, this one presented by Dorothy Antolin, is one of the many from around the wold on display at Na`alehu Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints today from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. this evening. The non-demoninational event, called the Creche Festival, is for everyone. It features music in an artistic setting, local creche artists, a gallery of nativities and children's rooms with costumes and activites. Yesterday's presentation featured Christmas songs played on a tuba.
For more information, call 339-7402.

Gloria Camba encourages everyone to attend tomorrow's
concert and to keep giving to victims of the typhoon.
Photo by Julia Neal

FUNDRAISER FOR THE PHILIPPINES disaster victims of typhoon Haiyan, that destroyed Tacloban, and the Bohol earthquake is tomorrow at Hilo Civic Auditorium, 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Organizing the event is Margarita Day Day Hopkins, of Hilo Visayan Club and a supporter of economic development for displaced sugar workers in Ka`u. Co-sponsoring is the county immigration office and Rose Bautista, as well as Dr. Norman Arancon and Dr. Rodney Jubilado.

Ka`u Coffee Growers Cooperative president Gloria Camba said she encourages everyone to support their brothers and sisters in the Visayan districts of the Philippines, hard hit by the back-to-back disasters.

Performing will be dancers from the Hilo Visayan Club and the Bayanihan Club of University of Hawai`i at Hilo, the Hawaiian Band, Two Souls and singers Keahi Conjugation, Kristian Lei, Lenny Castillo and Norman Arancon.

Congress of Visayan Organizations, a nonprofit group, will use money raised to directly support victims. The organization requests a $20 donation from adults and $5 from students for admission to the fundraiser.
To donate directly, contact Hopkins at dayday@hawaii.rr.com or 938-0474 or drop by R&G Store in Pahala or Will & Grace Store in Na`alehu.

PAHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE IS A WEEK from today on Sunday, Dec. 8. The 35th annual parade begins at 1 p.m., with Santa handing out candy to keiki and making an appearance at Ka`u Hospital. Community groups, coffee farmers, the fire department and many more join in this holiday celebration. To participate, call Eddie Andrade at 928-0808.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Ultraman zooms through Ka`u each year, passing Honu`apo Lookout. Photo by Gary Wang

ULTRAMAN CAME THROUGH KA`U over the weekend, with competitors riding their bikes during the 320-mile, three-day event that ended Sunday. Winners of the Ultraman World Championships Hawai`i with a 6.2-mile swim, 261.4-mile bike and 52.4 mile run are often in an older age group than the Kona Ironman. This year’s winners were Miro Kregar, 51, and Hillary Biscay, 35. Kregar is from Slovenia, and Biscay is from Tuscon, Arizona.

Biscay, whose occupation is a professional triathlete, took second in the Ultraman in 2010 and has finished 58 Ironman competitions around the world. She said she entered Ultraman because “I love to test myself. Ultraman Hawai`i was one of the most amazing sports experiences I’ve had.”
Kregar, an electrician, is a seven-time Ultraman finisher, taking second place three times. He has finished 21 Ironmans. He said, “I love the heat on the lava fields.” Winning times were 23 hours, 42 minutes and six seconds for Kregar and 24 hours, 12 minutes and 57 seconds for Biscay. The course, which began with a swim in Kona and a bike ride to Volcano, included a right onto South Point Road and a left onto Kama`oa Road and then a right back onto Hwy 11.

The first day ended at Namakani Paio in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. The second day began on Pi`i Mauna Drive in the park.

Richard Ha

“ALL OF THIS HULLABALOO ABOUT BILL 113, the Big Island anti-GMO bill recently passed by the Hawai`i County Council – What it’s really about is that we need to take a little more time, so we can be sure we are making good and informed decisions,” said Hamakau Springs Country Farms owner Richard Ha in a Civil Beat commentary.
“It’s not ‘us against them.’ It’s not ‘GMO against organic.’ It isn’t ‘who’ is right, so much as it is ‘what’ is right,” Ha said.
“It’s significant that a group of farmers and ranchers who, between them, grow 90 percent of the food produced on the Big Island, have banded together to say the same thing: We need to think this through more carefully.
“These farmers and ranchers opposed Bill 113 because the bill was rushed and its consequences were not considered. We didn’t take the time to think it all through and come to the best decision for everyone.
“Bill 113 looks through a very narrow prism; there is a much bigger picture that is not being considered. We are not taking into account the risk of rising energy prices. We live in the humid subtropics, where there is no winter to kill off bad insects. Our solution has been to use petroleum products to fight them off and also to make fertilizers – but now, the price of oil has skyrocketed, and this is becoming unsustainable.
“Use solar energy, some say. But solar energy is only sustainable right now because of subsidies, and we cannot expect that subsidies will always be there.
“A leaf, though, is also a solar collector, and it’s free. Being able to leverage our sun energy year round – assuming we have a way to control our pests – would make our farming and ranching industry, and our local food production, more than sustainable.
“A solid solution to the extensive problems caused by rising oil costs is to use scientific advances. Biotechnology. It’s comparable to how we use iPhones now to replace the big walkie-talkies we used before.
“We need to think through all of this in great detail. All of us need to be open to the fact that our research might prove a certain favorite plan of action unsustainable. If that’s the case, we need to move on to the next idea and research that one carefully, getting input from every side.
“We need to consider unintended consequences of legislation. We need to slow down, and research, and make carefully informed decisions,” Ha concluded.
See civilbeat.com.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Acropora species of coral, though abundant, are vulnerable to effects
of climate change. Photo from C. Birkeland/UH-Manoa

GLOBAL CHANGES IN CLIMATE AND OCEAN CHEMISTRY affect corals whether scarce or abundant, and often it is the dominant, abundant corals with wide distributions that are affected the most, according to a team of scientists from University of Hawai`i-Manoa, Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The researchers evaluated both the geologic record of past extinctions and recent major events to assess the characteristics of dominant corals under various conditions. They determined that, during periods advantageous to coral growth, natural selection favors corals with traits that make them more vulnerable to climate change.
The last 10 thousand years have been especially beneficial for corals, the researchers found. Acropora species, such as table coral, elkhorn coral and staghorn coral, were favored in competition due to their rapid growth.
“This advantageous rapid growth may have been attained in part by neglecting investment in few defenses against predation, hurricanes or warm seawater,” their report stated.
Acropora species have porous skeletons, extra thin tissue and low concentrations of carbon and nitrogen in their tissues. “The abundant corals have taken an easy road to living a rich and dominating life during the present interglacial period, but the payback comes when the climate becomes less hospitable,” researchers concluded.
They propose that conditions driven by excess carbon dioxide in the ocean cause mortality at rates that are independent of coral abundance. This density-independent mortality and physiological stress affects reproductive success and leads to decline of corals.

`Amu`amu season is now closed during their peak spawning season.
Photo from DLNR/DAR

Some coral species are abundant across a broad geographic range, but the new findings show that this does not safeguard them against global threats, including changing ocean chemistry and rising temperatures.
While assessments and evaluations of the risk of extinction for a species of coral are made on the basis of how scarce or restricted in range it is, these new findings highlight vulnerability of abundant and widely dispersed corals as well as corals that are rare and/or have restricted ranges.
The authors hope to strengthen the case for directly addressing the global problems related to coral conservation. Though it is good to handle local problems, the authors stress, the handling of all the local problems will not be sufficient.
See soest.hawaii.edu.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

`AMA`AMA SEASON IS NOW CLOSED through Monday, March 31, 2014. The striped mullet are about to enter their peak spawning season, which increases their vulnerability to fishing pressure. “The annual winter closure is designed to help the fish reproduce successfully and protect the species from overfishing,” said William J. Aila, Jr., chair of the Department of Land & Natural Resources.

Marley Strand-Nicolaisen graduating from
Ka`u High last May.

“We ask the public’s kokua in complying with the closed season,” Aila said. “While it’s DLNR’s job to protect our marine resources, everyone shares in the responsibility to take care of important fish species like `ama`ama to ensure their survival into the future.”
Violations of the size or season restrictions can result in fines of up to $500 and/or 30 days in jail, plus up to $100 for each fish taken. In addition to criminal penalties, an administrative fine of up to $1,000 per violation may be assessed by the department.
Copies of statewide fishing regulations for `ama`ama and all other marine species are available at Hawai`i Island’s DLNR/Division of Aquatic Resources office at 75 Aupuni Street, Room 204 in Hilo.
Fishing regulations can also be found at hawaii.gov/dlnr/dar.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

MARLEY STRAND-NICHOLAISEN is volleyball Freshman of the Year in the collegiate Pacific West Conference. She plays for the University of Hawai`i-Hilo Vulcans and is a graduate of Ka`u High School and resident of Discovery Harbour. She is the daughter of Lorie Strand and Robert Nicholaisen. The fresman, who received a U.H. scholarship to play volleyball, is a member of the 2013 All-PacWest Women's Volleyball Team.

For the second straight season, a UH-Hilo player earned the Freshman of the Year award. Strand-Nicholaisen was fourth in points per set (4.11) and in kills per set (3.67). She accomplished 382 points on 341 kills, 20 aces, three block solos and 36 block assists.

HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETINGS take place this week at council chambers in Hilo. Committees meet tomorrow: Planning, 9 a.m.; Finance, 1:30 p.m.; Environmental Management, 3:30 p.m.; Human Services and Social Services, 4 p.m.; Public Works and Parks & Recreation, 4:15 p.m.

Li`i Kaluna made coconut hats at last year's
Makahiki. Photo by Julia Neal

On the agenda of the Environmental Management Committee is a resolution urging the administration to adopt an approach to the county’s solid waste program that emphasizes composting/mulching and increased personal responsibility to reduce, reuse, and recycle, as well as considering “all solid waste technologies that best contribute to the reduction and handling of solid waste in a manner that is environmentally sound and cost-effective.”
Full Council meets Wednesday at 9 a.m. Ka`u residents can participate in all meetings via videoconferencing from Ocean View Community Center.

FUNDRAISER FOR THE PHILIPPINES disaster victims of typhoon Haiyan, that destroyed Tacloban, and the Bohol earthquake is today at Hilo Civic Auditorium, 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Performing will be dancers from the Hilo Visayan Club and the Bayanihan Club of University of Hawai`i at Hilo, the Hawaiian Band, Two Souls and singers Keahi Conjugation, Kristian Lei, Lenny Castillo and Norman Arancon.
Congress of Visayan Organizations requests a $20 donation from adults and $5 from students for admission to the fundraiser.
To donate directly, contact Hopkins at dayday@hawaii.rr.com or 938-0474 or drop by R&G Store in Pahala or Will & Grace Store in Na`alehu.

KA`U SCENIC BYWAY COMMITTEE meets this evening at Na`alehu Methodist Church Social Hall at 5 p.m. On the agenda is the Kas`u Byway master plan, the Na`alehu Theatre, and new 77 mile-marker signage. Ka`u Scenic Byway is a program of Ka`u Chamber of Commerce.

THE ANNUAL MAKAHIKI FESTIVAL will be held this weekend at Punalu`u Beach Park. The annual event features days of free music, dance, crafting and feasting with people gathering and camping. The makahiki celebrates Hawaiian values, culture, talent and food, as people join together Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Miss Hawaiian Islands Ulu Makuakani flew to the Solomon Islands to participate in the Miss South Pacific pageant and votes are being
taken online for Miss Internet. She danced for for Ka`u Plantation Days in October. Photo by Julia Neal

“WE DO WANT TO LOWER THE ELECTRICAL RATES FOR THE CUSTOMERS,” Hawai`i Electric Light Co. administration manager Rhea Lee told Tom Callis, of Hawai`i Tribune-Herald. Lee spoke with Callis about delays in awarding a contract for 50 megawatts of geothermal power and attempts to re-negotiate other contracts to detach them from the price of oil.

“We want to make sure that geothermal that we add will not be tied to the price of oil,” Lee said.

HELCO received bids from six companies for the geothermal power contract and was initially expecting to make a selection by September, according to the story. “It later pushed that timeline to the end of November,” Callis reported.
Lee said, “We are really looking at these proposals very closely.”

Of the 38 MW of geothermal power HELCO currently buys from Puna Geothermal Venture, 25 MW are linked to the cost of oil. PGV is one of the companies seeking the new contract.
HELCO is also talking to some other power producers about renegotiating contracts to detach the cost of buying the electricity from the price of oil, Lee said. Some of them “are willing to talk with us and are talking with us,” Lee told Callis. “Some are not.”
See hawaiitribune-herald.com.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Central Pacific basin experienced six tropical cyclones during 2013 hurricane season. Map from NOAA/NWS

HURRICANE SEASON ENDED NOV. 30 with more storms than expected. The National Weather Service reported that while the initial season forecast was for one to three tropical cyclones, a total of six either formed in or passed into the Central Pacific Basin. Only one, Flossie, threatened land.

Neutral El Nino Southern Oscillation conditions lingered throughout the season. Atmospheric conditions became favorable for development during late July through late August and coincided with the increase in tropical cyclone activity.
The six Central Pacific tropical cyclones of 2013 represent an above-average year. Normally, four to five tropical cyclones occur in the Central Pacific Basin each year during the hurricane season, which extends from June 1 to Nov. 30.
2013 was the second busiest year since 1998. The other two busy years during this stretch, 1997 and 2009, were both El Nino years.
2013 tied with 1971 and 1983 as the sixth busiest season since 1970, and August was once again the busiest month during the season.

Five tropical cyclones occurred during August 2013, and since 1970, 74 tropical cyclones have occurred during August. It is, by far, the busiest month of the season on average, NWS said.
Since 1957, five or more August tropical cyclones have only occurred three times: 1978, 2009, 2013. August 2013 is tied with August 2009 for the second busiest August since 1957.

Ka`u residents can vote for Ulu in the Miss South Pacific
contest at facebook.com/misssouthpacific2013.

Summaries of Central Pacific hurricane seasons back through the 1950s can be found at weather.gov/cphc/summaries.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

ALESHA ULUWEHI MAKUAKANE, former Miss Ka`u Coffee and current Miss Hawaiian Islands, is in the Solomon Islands participating in the Miss South Pacific Pageant 2013. The pageant includes contestants and delegates from Vanuatu, Fiji, Tokelau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Cook Islands, American Samoa, Hawaiian Islands and Tonga.

Ka`u residents can support Makuakane by voting for her photo on Facebook’s Miss South Pacific 2013 page, facebook.com/missshouthpacific2013. The contestant with the most votes becomes Miss Internet.

The pageant runs through Dec. 7, culminating with the crowning gala on Saturday night.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

KA`U TROJANS GIRLS BASKETBALL plays the season opener tonight in Kea`au against the Kamehamaha Warriors.
Coach Cy Lopez recently described his team to Hawai`i Tribune-Herald writer Matt Gerhard: “I give the girls credit. No matter what the score, from start to finish, they play 110 percent.”
The story in today’s Tribune-Herald also quoted Trojan junior Deisha Navarro saying, “It’s basically just keeping our heads up and fighting no matter what the score is. We’re working hard, we’re improving, and I feel like as long as all of us keep our teamwork together, we’ll be fine.” She described Lopez: “He tells us to never give up. If we put our hearts on the court, we’ll get better results.”
“Everybody fights until the end,” Navarro told the Tribune-Herald sports writer.

Coach Cy Lopez credited Leah Apia Dolan, No. 70 for her "animal instincts."
Photo by Julia Neal

Gerhard described the spirit of the team during the recent preseason tournament: “The score was out of hand and had been for some time, but you wouldn’t have known it by watching Cy Lopez or his Ka`u girls basketball team. Sophomore Lea Aipia-Dolan and her teammates continued to try to attack the basket as if the game was tied, while Lopez did everything he could to keep his team in the game. With the undersized Trojans trailing Waiakea by more than 40 points, the coach called three second-half timeouts to rally the troops.”
In another game, such strategy led to a win “when Lopez called a timeout with Ka`u trailing by one against Kealakehe in the waning seconds to draw up a ‘secret inbounds play.’ Bridget Pasion missed a shot from the perimeter, but Kerri Domondon corralled the rebound and hit a buzzer-beater to give the Trojans the victory,” reported theTribune-Herald.

The story also reported that “the second-year coach would like to make winning a custom at Ka`u, but he knows that player development is crucial. Save for a long drive to the north or south, age-group club basketball options are sparse, and as a result Lopez said many of his players haven’t touched the ball before they get to high school. In addition, many of his players’ first focus is volleyball.” Gerhard wrote that Lopez and “his coaches are aiming to start a Parks and Recreation league in the district.

Trojan girls say their coach teaches them to never give up.
Photo by Julia Neal

“We live out in the sticks, and we’re a small school, but we can’t get intimidated,” Lopez told the Tribune-Herald.
The sports writer sized up the team: “Ka`u, which has only one senior, can’t match up with most teams size-wise, but it will try to make up for it with quickness and will feature a three-guard lineup with juniors Navarro and Domondon capable of running the point. Pasion, a junior, is the best pure shooter on the team, and Aipia-Dolan, a sophomore, can play either guard or forward. At roughly five-feet eight-inches tall, junior Maka Flores-Carvalho is the tallest player on the roster and can provide muscle inside.
Lopez also talked about the team: “Denisha is a real team leader, and Kerri has unreal quickness with the ball.” Lopez “praised Aipia-Dolan for her ‘animal instincts’ to always keep fighting on the court.”
Lopez told the Tribune-Herald that “the Trojans may have to play some two-three zone defense to overcome lack of height, and he’d also like to see crisper passing develop so that Ka`u can play up-tempo on offense.”
See more at hawaiitribune-herald.com.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

IN OTHER TROJAN SPORTS, boys and girls soccer teams also play at Kamehameha today at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Boys basketball team participates in Waiakea High School’s tournament tomorrow through Saturday.

HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL MEETINGS take place this week at West Hawai`i Civic Center in Kona. Committees meeting this afternoon are Finance, 1:30 p.m.; Environmental Management, 3:30 p.m.; Human Services and Social Services, 4 p.m.; and Public Works and Parks & Recreation, 4:15 p.m.
Full Council meets tomorrow at 9 a.m. Ka`u residents can participate in all meetings via videoconferencing from Ocean View Community Center.

Frosty the Snowman plans to return to Pahala for Sunday's Christmas Parade.
Photo by Julia Neal

LEARN TO MEDITATE WITH MARY GRACE ORR tomorrow and next Wednesday from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Volcano Art Center’s Ni`aulani Campus in Volcano Village. Call 967-8222.

THE ANNUAL MAKAHIKI FESTIVAL takes place this weekend at Punalu`u Beach Park, celebrating Hawaiian values, culture, talent and food. The event features free music, dance, crafting and feasting with people gathering and camping as people join together Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday.

PAHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE is this coming Sunday, Dec. 8. The 35th annual parade begins at 1 p.m., with Santa handing out candy to keiki and making an appearance at Ka`u Hospital. Community groups, coffee farmers, the fire department and many more join in this holiday celebration.
To participate, call Eddie Andrade at 928-0808.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Trini and Francis Marques are two of the original Ka`u Coffee farmers and sell under their own brand,
Ali`i Hawaiian Hula Hands Coffee. Photo by Julia Neal

BLENDING KA`U COFFEE with coffees from such origins as Latin America and Africa was the hot topic at Ka`u Coffee Growers Cooperative’s meeting last night. The discussion came on the heels of the rolling out of a 10 percent Ka`u Coffee Blend under the name of famous chef Alan Wong, produced by Hawai`i Coffee Co. and its CEO Jim Wayman in Honolulu.

Since the roll out of the 10 percent Alan Wong Ka`u Coffee, KTA and Longs have dropped the Ka`u Coffee Growers Cooperative brand, said the co-op president Gloria Camba, though some members questioned whether this was a coincidence in timing. Co-op vice president Leo Norberte said that Ka`u Coffee 10 percent blend is on sale at KTA for $5.49 for a seven-ounce bag.
Ka`u Coffee farmer Berta Miranda predicted that if people see the lower-priced coffee with the names Ka`u and Alan Wong on the bag, they will buy blended coffee instead of the more expensive 100 percent Ka`u Coffee. “We work hard to keep our coffee clean and pure. I don’t like the idea of blending coffee because people will choose to buy the cheap coffee.”
One of the original Ka`u Coffee growers, who started farming with other displaced sugar workers as the cane company was shutting down in 1996, said that she was shocked that the cooperative was not asked for an opinion before the decision to blend was made.
Trini Marques said that blending Kona Coffee “jammed up their market.” She contended that farmers who have built their own niche markets will be hurt “when they flood the shelves with cheap coffee. We established the name Ka`u, and now they are going to use the name we built to sell cheap coffee. We don’t need somebody like Chef Alan Wong to take credit for our hard work,” said Marques. She said the mayor and the state told the farmers that “we have a niche; we should keep our coffee pure. Why ruin a good thing?”

Phil and Merle Becker have built up the Aikane Plantation
100 Percent Ka`u Coffee brand in markets on this island,
O`ahu, Japan and the mainland.

Marques said that the blending is all about volume and money. “When you put one gold coin in front of your eye and another gold coin in front of your other eye, what do you see?” Nothing, the person is blind, said Marques. She also pointed to her native Hawaiian heritage and said the move toward blending and volume marketing reminds her of the feelings Hawaiians have about lands being sold.
Camba asked whether local coffee producers would be able to blend their own Ka`u Coffees, and several farmers said it would require a lot of capital to import coffee from the international market.
Marques and others said they outright oppose the idea of blending. She said farmers who sold their coffee to broker Chris Manfredi believed they were selling for Starbucks to promote 100 percent Ka`u Coffee. She said Manfredi also told farmers to keep the coffee pure and refrain from blending it.
Wayman said Manfredi sold ten thousand pounds of Ka`u Coffee for Hawai`i Coffee Co.’s blending program for $135,000. Wayman said Ka`u Coffee Mill sold the same amount for the same price for the blend.
Louis Danielle, Ka`u Coffee Mill manager, said that he sees working with Wayman, the largest coffee roaster and marketer in Hawai`i, as a good thing. He told the coffee farmers that Wayman “dominates the business in Hawai`i,” and that the affordable blend will “open up Ka`u Coffee to a wider market.” He said that Wayman sells more 100 percent Kona Coffee than anyone else and will also be selling 100 percent Ka`u Coffee. Danielle said that “Jim is into helping Ka`u. ... Jim wants three, four, five thousand acres of coffee. This gives us another outlet for the green bean.”
“Globally, people blend. I think this will propel us,” said Danielle. He said the world price of coffee, the kind of used for the blend, is selling for under a dollar a pound. He said that if the price of Ka`u Coffee keeps rising, it could out-price itself, and it could be hard to sell green beans to anyone outside of Hawai`i.
Some farmers agreed that making a broader market could keep the parchment price high for farmers while hurting the local brands.
This morning, Aikane Plantation Coffee owner and coffee marketer Phil Becker, who sells the brand developed with his wife Merle, said, “The farmers have worked so long and hard to get the coffee up to where they can at least make a profit, and to have someone pull the rug out from under them just seems wrong. Alan Wong has said that Ka`u Coffee should be pure and only prepared through a French press. I don’t understand why he is doing this. I don’t understand how selling a cheap blend will help the local, pure Ka`u Coffee brands in any way.”
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

COFFEE GROWERS AND OTHER KA`U FARMERS are invited to U.H. Cooperative Extension Service’s free Proper Pesticide Use and Safety Workshop Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 6 p.m. at Pahala Community Center.
Presenters will talk about Federal Worker Protection Standards for ag workers and pesticide handlers, use, application, storage and disposal, “which are major production, labor, marketing, legal and financial risks that growers face,” says a flyer on the program.
Farmers are asked to bring their pesticide cards.
To register, call 322-4892 or email ginab@hawaii.edu by Dec. 16.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Ruth Coller Forbes is Kulani's new warden.

KULANI CORRECTIONAL FACILITY IS HIRING STAFF in preparation for its scheduled re-opening next July. The minimum-security facility will have 96 full-time positions to oversee about 200 low-risk inmates.

Ruth Coller Forbes, the new warden for Kulani, is responsible for getting it ready for re-opening July 1.
“I’m excited for this opportunity, not only to grow in my career but to be a part of the re-opening of the Kulani Correctional Facility because I was around when it closed,” Forbes told Hawai`i Tribune-Herald. “So, I do know the impact it had on the community and the staff and the inmates.
“Our focus primarily right now is getting the staff on board, and once we do that, we’ll have the staff necessary for the screening of the inmates that will be coming in,” Forbes said. “We’ll be hiring new staff as well as bringing back former Kulani employees. They were given the option to return to the facility in their previous positions.”
Forbes told reporters Tom Callis and John Burnett the facility will be both a social and economic boon locally.
“I think it will have a big impact on the community and, not only the community at large, but also for the inmates that will be returning home to the islands,” she said. “For them, it’s really important to be close to their families. And also, it has a big impact for hiring … as it provides employment opportunities for people in the community.”
Kulani closed in 2009 due to budget cutbacks. Before it re-opens, upgrades are being made to kitchen equipment and electrical systems, along with other minor repairs.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

KA`U HIGH & PAHALA ELEMENTARY STUDENTS in the English Language Learner program won third place in East Hawai`i during the Pacific and Asian Affairs Council WorldQuest quiz held on Nov. 23 in Hilo.

Academic WorldQuest is a team quiz game designed to enhance international education. Teams of four compete in six rounds, and the winning team wins a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Academic WorldQuest Competition.

Ka`u students participated in the 2013 PAAC Academic WorldQuest competition.

Kealakehe High School, Mid-Pacific Institute and Seabury Hall teams placed first, second, and third in the state, respectively, in a field of 204 students on 51 teams from 34 schools who competed in PAAC’s 14th Annual Academic WorldQuest Competition. Emcee Howard Dicus led the competition, which took place simultaneously on O`ahu, Maui, Kaua`i, Moloka`i and the Big Island. Categories included Current Events, Cybersecurity, Global Economic Realignment, Global Health, U.S. Energy Policy and UN Millennium Goal 1: Eradicate Extreme Poverty & Hunger.
KHPES ELL coordinator David Santos prepared the students to showcase their knowledge in this event.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

VOLUNTEERS HELP REMOVE INVASIVE Himalayan ginger from Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park trails during Stewardship at the Summit on Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Meet at Kilauea Visitor Center. Free; park entrance fees apply.

THE ANNUAL MAKAHIKI FESTIVAL takes place this weekend at Punalu`u Beach Park, celebrating Hawaiian values, culture, talent and food. The event features free music, dance, crafting and feasting with people gathering and camping as people join together Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday.

PAHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE is this coming Sunday, Dec. 8. The 35th annual parade begins at 1 p.m., with Santa handing out candy to keiki and making an appearance at Ka`u Hospital. Community groups, coffee farmers, the fire department and many more join in this holiday celebration.
To participate, call Eddie Andrade at 928-0808.

SUNDAY IS ALSO FALL CREATIVITY DAY from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Discovery Center Community Hall. Ka`u School of the Arts offers batik, ‘ohe kapala (bamboo stamp making, dying, sewing and jewelry making workshops.
For more information, call 854-1540.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

The DLNR reminds all fishermen that the minimum size for taking ulua, speared, hooked or otherwise is ten inches.
This includes the juvenile papi`o. Photo from NOAA

NEW INFRASTRUCTURE for Ka`u is included in a county bond proposal, approved by the County Council’s Finance Committee yesterday. The improvements would cost $250,000 for a playground at Na`alehu Park, $150,000 for extending the Kahuku Park water line and $94,000 to develop an Ocean View park-and-ride center. Ocean View is a popular bedroom community for people working in Kona.

Ocean View water well, shown during the drilling days, will
provide water to provide a grassy playing field for Kahuku Park.

The Ka`u projects were proposed by Ka`u council member Brenda Ford after she noted that District 6, which includes Ka`u, was the only district without projects in the county administration’s bond proposal. “I think it is only fair that all districts get to participate in improvements,” said Ford.
“Na`alehu’s children’s park – the playground has not had playground equipment for the children for many, many years. It never gets budgeted into the operations budget,” Ka`u’s council member told the Finance Committee.
The Kahuku water main extension would bring water “from the only well in Ocean View to the only park in Ocean view “so that children could have grass to play on instead of rocks and dirt,” Ford said.
She said that the Ocean View Park and Ride was put through the CIP process to purchase land to build a bus shelter and put in a street light for safety reasons. She said county mass transit is already paying $500 a month for the land.
The full County Council takes up approval of the proposal for the county to issue the new bond which would be for $61 million for 23 projects around the island.

THE GMO DEBATE CONTINUES with Merle Inouye weighing in following a recent opinion piece by farmer Richard Ha. Writing in Civil Beat, Inouye, a Big Island natural farmer and food safety advocate, notes in Civil Beat that in November, the Hawai`i County Council passed Bill 113 to prohibit open-air cultivation of GMO crops and plants. Tomorrow, Dec. 6, is the deadline for Mayor Billy Kenoi to either sign, veto or let the bill become law without his signature.
On Kaua`i, the mayor vetoed a related bill, but the County Council voted to override the veto.
Inouye suggests taking corn as an example of a GMO crop. She writes that the “American Corn Growers Association, representing over 14,000 corn growers issued more bad news to its members about the impact GMO corn has had on their industry. ‘Japan and South Korea are buying non-GMO corn from Brazin and China instead of buying U.S. corn.’” She states that the U.S. lowered its corn export forecast by another 50 million bushels American farmers cannot be expected to pick up the tab for a shortsighted U.S. biotech policy that suggests foreign consumers and importers will ultimately be forced to accept GMOs.”
Inouye predicts that federal farm policies, including support of GMO “are throwing away our export markets while driving down corn prices and driving up federal farm program costs. Both policies are major failures. They need ot be changed quickly before their negative impact is reflected in land values and the farm economy is thrown into a major collapse.”
She contended that “Hawawi`i’s GMO papaya has taken the same path of falling production and shrinking returns. Papaya sales for 2011 hit a low of $9 million in 1998, just before the introduction of the GMO papaya.”

Inouye said that papaya sales have gone down since GMO's were introduced.
Photo from Wikepedia

Inouye pointed to Richard Ha’s contention that more time is needed to research and think about GMO agriculture.
She also quoted U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsac writing to stakeholders: “The rapid adoption of GE (genetically engineered) crops has clashed with the rapid expansion of demand for organic and other non –GE products. This clash led to litigation and uncertainty. Suck litigation will potentially lead to the courts deciding who gets to farm their way and who will be prevented from doing so.”
Inouye poses the questions: “Why are residents in an uproar over GMO planting? Who will compensate the grower for GMO crop contamination? Who will compensate them for the loss of livelihood of non-BMO growers? Who will regulate the GMO contaminator? How will Hawai`i agriculture fare when non-GMO crops cannot be grown alongside GMOs?”
Richard Ha responded to the editorial , saying. “My advocacy of GMO crops arise form asking, ‘What about the rest?’ GO’s are safe. All the major scientific organizations in the world agree with this. “ He said that if local farmers can’t grow GMO they will become less competitive, fewer people will go into farming and there will be less food security. See more at www.civilbeat.com

NATIVE HAWAIIAN LEGAL CORP, NA PUA NO`EAU educational programs and Alu Like’s social service programs – all for Native Hawaiians - are safe from blood-quantum related legal challenges for now, according to a recent state supreme court ruling. Office of Hawaiian Affairs funding of the services faced a challenge in the state supreme court, but the court ruled in favor of funding specifically for Native Hawaiians. OHA chair Colette Machado called the ruling “a landmark decision. This issue has now been decided in both state and federal court. This is a great day for all Hawaiians.”

CATCHING ULUA, or juvenile ulua – papi`o – that are undersize can bring on a hefty fine from the state, warns the state Department of Land & Natural Resources. The agency issued a press release yesterday reminding fisherman that catching ulua smaller than ten inches is punishable with fines of up to $1,000 and 30 days in jail. Ulua, when allowed to grow, can reach nearly 200 pounds and can be six feet long, The DLNR made an example of a fisherman on O`ahu taking an undersized ulua. The agency levied a fine of $250.
Randy Awo, chief of the DLNR’s Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement stated: “Taking undersized ulua presents a threat to Hawai1`i’s near shore fisheries. DOCARE continues to patrol ocean waters and shorelines to ensure compliance with fishing regulations.” The O`ahu offender, was turned in by an anonymous tipster.

KA`U’S CONGRESSWOMAN TULSI GABBARD opposed a bill that passed the U.S. House of representatives that would exempt private equity fund advisers from registering with the federal government. The Republican proposal also drew a no vote from Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who issued a statement saying, “The ability to manage and monitor risks in all investment areas is crucial to ensuring that another 2008 financial crisis does not happen again, and I could not vote to create a loophole that would exempt almost all private equity firms from oversight, while weakening investor protections.
The measure, to amend the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, passed the House 254-159. According to Hanabusa, however, it is not expected to pass a voted in the U.S .Senate.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI`I – HILO are available for first-generation students. Requirements for these Dorrance Scholarships Hawai`i are that applicants are seniors in good standing at a Big Island high school, are in the first-generation in their families to attend college; a minimum GPA of 3.0, verification of SAT or ACT test score; and acceptance to U.H.Hilo. Applicants must also show financial need and plan to reside on campus for freshman and sophomore year.

Scholarships are for up to $8,000 annually and are renewable for a four-year college education. Awards will be announced by April 30, 2014. Contact high school counselors or Maria Martin at mmartin@azfoundation.org.

TRAINING TO HELP THE PUBLIC follow the actions of the 2014 State Legislature will take place in Ka`u from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. next Thursday, Dec. 12 at Pahala Plantation House. The training, sponsored by the state of Hawai`i’s Legislative Reference Bureau’s Public Access Room, is free and open to everyone. The meetings are “designed to demystify the state lawmaking process, and will demonstrate ways that people can speak out at the Legislature without ever having to leave the Big Island,” says a statement from PAR.
The workshop is entitled, We the Powerful. It is two hours and begins with a session called How the Legislative Process Works(and How to Work It), followed by a session called Delving Deeper – teaching the public how to reach further into the legislature’s website and other resources.
Covered topics will include an overview of the Legislature;s website, understanding the legislative process, delivering effective testimony and making sense of the calendar and deadlines. “Renewed inspiration to be part of the solution will be the overriding theme.”

A CLASS ACTION SUIT BY FOSTER PARENTS could force the state to pay more for childcare in foster homes. The suit, representing more than 1,000 foster parents in Hawai`i, contends that failure of the state to increase support for foster homes since 1990, violates the federal Child Welfare Act. The act directs the states to cover expense of raising children in foster care. The monthly payment to foster families is now $529 a month. The case is being handled by the Hawai`i Appleseed Center for Law and Economic Justice, which claims that foster families should be receiving more than $950 a month per child to care for them in the state with the highest cost of living – Hawai`i.

KA`U TROJAN VARSITY WAHINE BASKETBALL team fell to Kamehameha at Kea`au in the season opener this week. Trojans lost 14 to 61. High scorer for Ka`u was Denisha Navarro with 6 points. Trojans will host Konawaena on Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 6 p.m.

KA`U BOYS AND GIRLS SOCCER played their season opener on Tuesday against the Kamehameha Warriors in Kea`au. Girls lost 0-9, boys also lost 0-5. Ka`u soccer will host its next match on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 11a.m. and 1 p.m.

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO REMOVE INVASIVE Himalayan ginger from Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park trails during Stewardship at the Summit on Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Meet at Kilauea Visitor Center. Free; park entrance fees apply.

Pahala Christmas Parade is this Sunday at 1 p.m. , featuring Santa and his helpers. To participate, call Eddie Andrade at 928-0808.

THE ANNUAL MAKAHIKI FESTIVAL takes place this weekend at Punalu`u Beach Park, celebrating Hawaiian values, culture, talent and food. The event features free music, dance, crafting and feasting with people gathering and camping as people join together Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday.

PAHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE is this coming Sunday, Dec. 8. The 35th annual parade begins at 1 p.m., with Santa handing out candy to keiki and making an appearance at Ka`u Hospital. Community groups, coffee farmers, the fire department and many more join in this holiday celebration. To participate, call Eddie Andrade at 928-0808.

SUNDAY IS ALSO FALL CREATIVITY DAY from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Discovery Center Community Hall. Ka`u School of the Arts offers batik, ‘ohe kapala (bamboo stamp making, dying, sewing and jewelry making workshops.
For more information, call 854-1540.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Mayor Billy Kenoi signed the ban on most GMO crops into law. Photo from bigislandvideonews.com

THE BAN ON GROWING NEW GMO PLANTS on Hawai`i Island became law yesterday as Mayor Billy Kenoi signed Bill 113 into law. The measure, which first passed the County Council, prohibits any open-air use of genetically modified crops in Hawai`i County on the Big Island, with the exception of GMO papayas, which dominate the industry, and a cattle feed program that is already in place. GMO coffee and taro were banned in 2008.

The ban halts the rollout of planned GMO green lettuce, expansion of the cattle feed operation and a GMO program for anthuriums.
Supporting the ban is the Kona Coffee Growers Association and Farmers Union United. Opposing the ban is the Hawai`i Farm Bureau, including its Ka`u group, and Hawai`i Farmers and Ranchers United, along with its member organizations.

The mayor released the following statement:
“Our community has a deep connection and respect for our land, and we all understand we must protect our island and preserve our precious natural resources. We are determined to do what is right for the land because this place is unlike any other in the world. With this new ordinance we are conveying that instead of global agribusiness corporations, we want to encourage and support community-based farming and ranching.
“The debate over this bill has at times been divisive and hurtful, and some of our hard-working farmers who produce food for our community have been treated disrespectfully. We are determined to protect every farmer and rancher. Agriculture on Hawai`i Island will continue to grow with county assistance, investment and support.

Papaya farmers got their wish, an exemption to the GMO ban. Photo from Big Island Video News

The mayor promised additional support to local agriculture, including a public-private partnership to improve and expand the Pa`auilo Slaughterhouse “to support our grass-fed beef industry” and the launch of the Kapulena Agricultural Park, the largest agricultural park in the state on 1,739 acres of county-owned land. He promised support for “innovative training programs to grow the farmers of the future, and to train veterans to engage in agriculture on Hawaiian Home Lands, and the introduction and advancement of Korean Natural Farming as a sustainable method of producing healthier crops and livestock.”

He pointed to completion of the “first-in-the-state Food Self-Sufficiency Baseline Study of Hawai`i Island to measure the island’s progress toward food self-sufficiency.”
Wrote the mayor, “We are determined to reunite our farming community to create a stronger and more vibrant agricultural sector. It is time to end the angry rhetoric and reach out to our neighbors. Our farmers are essential to creating a wholesome and sustainable food supply on this island, and they deserve to be treated with respect and aloha. We must turn now to a meaningful, factual dialogue with one another.”

Kenoi promised to “launch a year of research and data collection to investigate factual claims and to seek out new directions that farming in our community should take. This work will include an expanded database detailing the locations of both organic and conventional farms, the crops that are grown, more accurate estimates of the revenue earned from these enterprises, and the challenges our farmers face in meeting food safety and organic certification requirements. We will work with our farmers and our ranchers to carefully monitor the impacts of this bill over the next year to separate speculation and guesswork from the facts.”

According to Kenoi, “Today our communities expect that government will be as cautious as possible in protecting our food and water supplies. We all want to minimize impacts to the environment while also producing abundant, affordable food for local consumption. This ordinance expresses the desires and demands of our community for a safe, sustainable agricultural sector that can help feed our people while keeping our precious island productive and healthy.”
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

VOLCANO SCHOOL OF ARTS & SCIENCES supporter Ross Rammelmeyer has sent a letter to Gov. Neil Abercrombie urging him to “immediately release the soon-to-expire Capital Improvement Funds of $618,000 of our state tax dollars already appropriated by our elected legislators. These are the funds you are arbitrarily withholding from the Friends of the Volcano School of Arts and Sciences, a chartered state public school. These funds have been twice appropriated by our elected representatives, only to be arbitrarily withheld by your administration. Our numerous pleas to provide the funds have been ignored,” Rammelmeyer contended.
“For a decade our 188 Volcano children, students, (with a waiting list of 86) have been attending school in now rotting and torn tents and World War II Quonset huts reached by a rutted dirt road. Our county Fire Marshall now indicates that if the school physical plant situation is not quickly remedied, the school will be condemned as unsafe in which to conduct instruction of our community’s children.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has yet to release $618,000 in capital
improvement funds approved by the Legislature for VSAS .

“Your most recent $1.8 million release of school construction and maintenance finds, all but a tenth of one percent was directed to non-chartered public schools, is exclusively dedicated to support and sports activities, including a radio/TV broadcasting booth.

“Your appointed state superintendent of schools is now paid $150,000 per year, over $20,000 more than the average salary of the governors of the 50 U.S. states. The now aggregate salaries of her and her 22 deputies, assistant superintendents, and ‘area specialists’ amount to $ 2,749,593 per year, almost five times what we asking for once for our school buildings. Their individual salaries are four times that of a person teaching in our state school system. You are currently entertaining a substantial increase in the salaries of each, as recommended by those who will receive them.

“Meanwhile, our children continue to learn in leaking tents in the rainforest here. State annual funding per student provided to our struggling charter school is half of that provided to the public schools on which you have lavished funds for sports facilities. Yet our VSAS charter students test higher than students in our surrounding public schools.

“In addition to paying their taxes for education to our state, consistently one of the most heavily per-capita taxed in the nation, our community has assembled over $ 85,772 in voluntary support of our school construction on 3.15 acres of land given to the state by our community’s citizens and leased back to us by your Department of Education. We are now initiating yet another community fund drive to gather more voluntary funding pending your release of already twice appropriated state tax funds.
Your future action will test whether “government of the people, by the people and for the people” applies in our 50th state in our union,” Rammelmeyer told the governor.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Ocean View Center's Malama Market, the cornerstone of the shopping center,
next to the swap meet.

NEW CONDITIONS ADDED TO OCEAN VIEW SWAP MEET’S special use permit address what commissioners consider to be safety issues involving parking at the event held each Saturday. At yesterday’s meeting of the county Windward Planning Commission, commissioners voted unanimously to add three conditions to try to resolve complaints about people parking along the side of Prince Kuhio Blvd. during the events. Swap meet owners must provide traffic control attendants to actively manage traffic flow and parking, provide adequate signage indicating where visitors may park on-site and provide parking inside the special use permit area. The commission also called for a prohibition of parking on Prince Kuhio Blvd. and Maile Drive.
Bill Peebles, representing Ocean View Partners, LLC, owners the property on which the swap meet operates, said that, according to police and fire departments, there is not a problem. He also said owners have met every requirement of the county and health department. Peebles said income from vendors covers expenses and that most of the balance goes to community events. “I am there to support my community,” Peebles said. “We take no income. We support the local keiki fishing tournaments and Christmas parties. We are doing positive things for the community.”

Don Nitsche

Commissioner Raylene Moses, a Ka`u resident, told Peebles that part of the permit is that “you need to address public complaints. It’s not unreasonable to put up signs and hire someone to control traffic. Create another job for someone in Ka`u.” Peebles responded, “I don’t think there is an issue and never has been an issue. I invite you all to go to the next swap meet.” Moses said, “We need to ensure safety. I’ve been there; I’ve seen it. In his testimony, Don Nitsche, resident of Ocean View Ranchos and member of the Ranchos Road Maintenance Corp., said that maintaining the swap meet requires overseeing parking. “We like the swap meet, but it gets out of control and dangerous at times,” he said.Nitsche said that when the Road Maintenance Corp. hired a policeman as test of managing traffic, it worked.

Commissioner Ronald Gonzales estimated that an additional $7 per vendor should cover the expense of hiring an officer in uniform, which he said would sway people to park in proper areas. Current fee is $15 per vendor, Peebles said.

Peebles questioned the effectiveness of having a police officer patrol a private street. Gonzales said that he often hires officers to help with parking on private property.

Commissioner Stephen Ono said, “Safety is more important than vendors fees; vendors need to be made aware of safety requirements.”

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

KILAUEA DRAMA AND ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK presents Volcano Festival Chorus Christmas Concert tomorrow at 7:30 p.m. at Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.

Free; park entrance fees apply.

KILAUEA MILITARY CAMP’S CRATER RIM CAFÉ in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park offers dinner before the Volcano Festival Chorus Christmas Concert. KMC is open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.

SUNDAY IS FALL CREATIVITY DAY from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Discovery Harbour Community Hall. with Ka`u School of the Arts offering batik, `ohe kapala (bamboo stamp making), dying, sewing and jewelry making workshops.

For more information, call 854-1540.

Friends of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park members explore
Puna Coast Trail Sunday. Photo from FHVNP

PALM TRAIL HIKE TAKES PLACE SUNDAY from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park’s Kahuku Unit. This relatively easy, guided, 2.6-mile loop crosses scenic pasture along an ancient cinder cone with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. Call 985-6011 or see nps.gov/havo.

AT FRIENDS OF HAWAI`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK’S Sunday Walk in the Park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thane Pratt leads an exploration of Puna Coast Trail. Free for members; non-members can join the organization in order to attend. Call 985-7373 or email admin@fhvnp.org.

SANTA IS ON HIS WAY TO JOIN Pahala Christmas Parade Sunday, handing out candy to keiki and making an appearance at Ka`u Hospital.
To participate, call Eddie Andrade at 928-0808.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Traditional Hawaiian blessing with maile lei opened Bay Clinic in Na`alehu for a public inspection and celebration yesterday. Photo by Joe Febo/Hana Hou Photography

BAY CLINIC’S EXPANSION in Na`alehu opened up for public inspection and celebration yesterday. The new medical, dental and mental health center is along Hwy 11 next to the old Bay Clinic building. Bay Clinic board chair Dawn Hawkins noted that the original facility opened 17 years ago in Na`alehu in response to the shutdown of the sugar industry, which provided health care to many people. Ten years later Bay Clinic secured state, federal and private funding to expand. The name is Ka`u Family Health and Dental Center, which is able to see an additional 3,400 patients a year with a total of 8,500 additional visits.

Bay Clinic CEO is Harold Wallace.

Bay Clinic board member Tanya Aynessazian (left), CEO Harold Wallace
and other board members meet Ka`u residents at the grand opening in
Na`alehu yesterday. Photo by Joe Febo/Hana Hou Photography

Bay Clinic board member Raylene Moses said the new facility is “a long time coming and overdue. I am grateful that the Ka`u community will continue to have quality health care.”
Ka`u Hawaiian Civic Club president Blossom DeSilva, a former Bay Clinic board member, said, “Because we have the community input and patients giving their comments, we have a facility designed for the people here.
“Many community organizations in Ka`u helped by raising money locally. We are very happy.”
Board member and past chair Tanya Aynessazian said, “My hope is that we can secure funding for transportation to bring people from Ocean View,” which recently lost its clinic with 4,000 patient visits a year.” People interested in supporting this should contact Bay Clinic, she recommended.
Bay Clinic, Inc. is a network of eight community health centers serving East Hawai`i’s families. According to its website, “We deliver quality, affordable and community-directed health care to thousands of Big Island residents regardless of insurance status. Bay Clinic provides affordable care on a sliding fee scale based upon income level. We provide primary medical care, behavioral health care and dental care to our community and work to ensure our community has accessible, affordable, and high quality health care services.
“We care for 18,314 Big Island residents, with 71,288 visits. We are the third largest community health center network in our state and the largest private nonprofit health care provider on our island.
Bay Clinic has adopted the Patient Centered Medical Home model of care.
For more, see bayclinic.org.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said capital improvement projects have
strengthened the local economy.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION INITIATIVES are on Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s agenda for the 2014 Legislature, which begins Wednesday, Jan. 16. During the 2013 Legislature, Abercrombie had sought $31 million over the next two years for early learning programs, but the Legislature appropriated only $7.16 million.

Abercrombie discussed this and other priorities at a Chamber of Commerce of Hawai`i luncheon where he and Finance director Kalbert Young outlined the state’s fiscal situation and economic outlook. They announced that the state ended fiscal year 2013 with a positive fund balance of $844 million. The state’s positive balance marks a $1.1 billion turn-around since the governor took office.
“Through difficult but necessary financial control measures implemented by the Abercrombie Administration in fiscal years 2011, 2012 and 2013, the state gradually increased its ending balances every year since the start of the administration,” according to a statement from the governor’s office. “By carefully managing the state’s financial resources, affordable and sustainable contracts were negotiated with the majority of public workers. The state was also able to recapitalize reserves for the rainy day and hurricane relief funds in the amount of $211 million, and critical government services like agricultural inspections are being restored.
“Furthermore, $1.2 billion was expended in fiscal year 2013 for priority capital improvement projects that invest in state infrastructure and facilities while serving to strengthen the local economy and generate job opportunities (another $2.2 billion has been appropriated for fiscal year 2014). As of Oct. 2013, Hawai`i’s unemployment rate is 4.4 percent, one of the lowest in the United States, compared with the national unemployment rate of 7.3 percent.
“We have worked diligently to stabilize and grow our economy and fiscal situation during my first three years of office,” Abercrombie said. “With additional state revenues and a positive economic outlook, we are now in a better situation to address key social and community issues like early education, environmental protection, homelessness and support for our seniors. Only with a strong economy and sound financial management can we adequately address these important issues, which require significant resources in addition to the will to do so.
The governor told Civil Beat the carryover balance gives the state the capacity to invest in the pre-school initiative. He said he hopes the Legislature recognizes the importance of the program and provides more funding, arguing that it will be hard for lawmakers to justify going against it.
See more at civilbeat.com.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Po Mahina's chicks, here at 35 days old, have fledged.
Photo from Keauhou Bird Conservation Center

KEAUHOU BIRD CONSERVATION CENTER holds its annual open house next Saturday and Sunday, Dec.14 and 15. Visitors get an up-close look at some of Hawai`i’s rarest birds and learn about the facility’s avian conservation efforts. Some of the birds at the center are `Alala (Hawaiian Crow), Palila, Kiwikiu (Maui Parrotbill) and Puaiohi (Small Kauai Thrush).
Another breeding season with `alala at KBCC has flown by. Research associate Amy Kuhar reported that Po Mahina’s chicks have fledged. At around noon on day 45, the male nestling became a fledgling. The chick was perched at the ledge of the nest platform facing the nest, and he leaned a little bit too far backward, losing his balance and falling off.
“The chick’s ungraceful dismount had us racing up to the aviary to see if he was okay,” Kuhar said. “The chick was crouched down on the ground with his feathers a little ruffled, but after a quick physical exam, we determined he wasn’t hurt but probably just a little stunned from the fall.”
A couple of hours later that same day, the younger chick, after carefully considering the jump from the nest, opened her wings and hopped to a nearby perch.
According to Kuhar, `alala fledglings in the wild can’t fly well for the first few weeks after fledging and spend a lot of time in the understory of the forest. This is when they are most vulnerable to predators like the `io (Hawai`i’s native hawk), cats and mongooses.
“Our parent-reared chicks seemed to follow the same pattern,” Kuhar said. “They stayed on perches lower to the ground for the first couple of weeks, sometimes making clumsy attempts to fly before crashing and tumbling to the ground, just like a new toddler learning to walk. Po Mahina paid close attention to them, bringing food to them often. Slowly, the chicks have learned to eat on their own, and now they eagerly come down to their food pans when they are fed every morning. However, they still love to beg to Po Mahina, hoping for some free handouts.”
The chicks will stay with Po Mahina until just before the start of next breeding season, when they will move into their own aviaries so that Po Mahina can build another nest and, hopefully, raise more chicks.
“It has been such a great experience watching these chicks develop and being able to share this conservation story with the world. It’s another big step for the `alala in their journey back to the wild,” Kuhar said.
Tours are at 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. Local artists will be selling their bird-related artwork, and there will also be a silent auction and T-shirt sale. Refreshments will be provided, and donations are welcome.
Call 985-7218 or email kbccopenhouse@gmail.com to reserve spots for a tour.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Halau Hula O Leionalani practices for today's Makahiki at Punalu`u. Their kumu hula Debbie Ryder will move to Pahala by the end of the year to teach and work with the halau. Photo by Julia Neal

THE ANNUAL MAKAHIKI FESTIVAL takes place today and tomorrow at Punalu`u Beach Park, celebrating Hawaiian values, culture, talent and food.

KILAUEA DRAMA AND ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK presents its free Volcano Festival Chorus Christmas Concert today at 7:30 p.m. at Kilauea Military Camp Theater in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Park entrance fees apply.

KA`U SCHOOL OF THE ARTS PRESENTS FALL CREATIVITY DAY tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Discovery Harbour Community Hall, offering batik, `ohe kapala (bamboo stamp making), dying, sewing and jewelry making workshops.
For more information, call 854-1540.

PALM TRAIL HIKE TAKES PLACE tomorrow from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park’s Kahuku Unit. This relatively easy, guided, 2.6-mile loop crosses scenic pasture along an ancient cinder cone with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. Call 985-6011 or see nps.gov/havo.

AT FRIENDS OF HAWAI`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK’S Sunday Walk in the Park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thane Pratt leads an exploration of Puna Coast Trail. Free for members; non-members can join the organization in order to attend. Call 985-7373 or email admin@fhvnp.org.

Community members participate in the Pahala Christmas Parade each year. Photo by Julia Neal

PAHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE IS TOMORROW at 1 p.m. Starting at the armory on Pikake Street, the parade winds its way through town, making a stop at Ka`u Hospital.

To participate, call Eddie Andrade at 928-0808.

FREE TRAINING TO HELP THE PUBLIC follow the 2014 State Legislature takes place Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Pahala Plantation House. Sponsored by the state of Hawai`i Legislative Reference Bureau’s Public Access Room, the training demystifies the state lawmaking process and demonstrates ways people can participate in the Legislature.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Cattle between Pahala and Na`alehu could be replaced by biofuel crops under the AKP plan, which received new testimony
posted yesterday by the Public Utilities. Photo by Julia Neal

COFFEE AND MACADAMIA PICKERS FROM THAILAND, some of them staying in homes in Ka`u during their employment with Global Horizons, Inc. several years ago, are long gone. However, an undisclosed settlement has been crafted between the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Global Horizons, Inc., Global Horizons Manpower, Inc. and at least one farm, accused of substandard living conditions for workers.
Involved are five Hawai`i farms, one of them, MacFarms of Hawai`i, which draws a majority of its local workers from Ka`u to its macadamia orchards just north of the Ka`u and South Kona district borders. The other companies are Captain Cook Coffee Co., Kelena Farms, Del Monte Fresh Produce of Hawai`i and Kaua`i Coffee Co. The lawsuit by the federal government focuses on working and living conditions, including the accusation that 20 Mac Farm workers, hired by Global Horizons, were crowded into a house in Na`alehu that was ill-equipped for even five persons. According to the allegations, the accommodations “lacked a fully functioning toilet, toilet paper, and hot water and had a buckling kitchen floor.”

Most coffee pickers come from the local community since the crack down by the
federal government. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie

Global Horizons president Mordechai Orian visited Ka`u several times while contracting to provide coffee and macadamia nut pickers here. He said he was unfairly accused in the U.S. government’s largest human-trafficking case in history. Charges were dismissed in 2012. Global Horizons, originating in Israel, provided workers from countries around the world for various tasks from concrete and stone work in fast growing Middle East resort cities to harvesting crops in Hawai`i and Washington state. Orian said that Thai workers were some of the best for farming because they came to the U.S. to work and took the money back home where they were happy with their lives and their families. Few tried to stay in this country illegally, he contended.
However, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission contended in a public statement that “between 2003 and 2007, Global Horizons enticed Thai male nationals into working at the farms with the false promises of steady, high-paying agricultural jobs along with temporary visas allowing them to live and work in the U.S. legally. The opportunity came at a price: high recruitment fees creating an insurmountable debt for the Thai workers. When they reached the U.S., Global Horizons confiscated the workers’ passports and threatened deportation if they complained, which set the tone for the abuses to come. The Thai workers were assigned to work at six farms in Hawai`i (Captain Cook Coffee Company, Del Monte Fresh Produce, Kaua`i Coffee Company, Kelena Farms, MacFarms of Hawai`i, and Maui Pineapple Farms) and two farms in Washington (Green Acre Farms and Valley Fruit Orchards), harvesting a variety of items from pineapples to coffee beans. The EEOC asserts that the farms not only ignored abuses, but also participated in the obvious mistreatment, intimidation, harassment, and unequal pay of the Thai workers,” the federal statement contended.
Since the federal suit, many coffee and macadamia farmers have shied away from foreign workers and attempted to hire more local pickers, particularly from the Micronesian community that lives here and sends children to the local public schools.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s attorney David Lopez, has scheduled a press conference in Los Angeles for this Monday, Nov. 18, to announce the settlement involving Global Horizons and at least one of the farms involved in the investigation.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Pastures would be cleared of trees, shrubs and grasses in favor of biofuel crops.
Photo by Julia Neal

`AINA KOA PONO’S PLAN to harvest trees, shrubs and grasses from lands between Pahala and Na`alehu and to plant biofuel crops to feed a $400 million refinery to be built off Wood Valley Road has gained more testimony. The new testimony proposes to prevent the electric utilities from charging customers for the expense of attorneys and staff they used to support the AKP proposal and to reimburse government agencies that spent money on the issue.
After a month without new AKP letters published on the state Public Utilities Commission website, the PUC yesterday posted the proposal and analysis from an undisclosed source. The anonymous testimony refers to the expense of debating the issue, which led the County of Hawai`i to assign its attorneys and hire a consultant to fight the electric rate increases proposed by the electric utilities to support the AKP plan. Hawai`i Electric Light Co. and Hawaiian Electric Co. have used their staff and attorneys to support AKP.
The unnamed author writes: “The process has been lengthy and expensive for both the taxpayers and the ratepayers. Consider that the combined number of PUC document pages for AKP-1 (the first AKP proposal that was turned down by the PUC) and AKP-2 (now before the PUC) is currently about 6,000. The majority of those pages were prepared or vetted by attorneys for the PUC, County of Hawai`i, Consumer Affairs, and DEBDT (all taxpayer funded) or by attorneys for HECO/HELCO (ratepayer funded). In addition, there were numerous public hearings, private meetings, consultants hired, staff salaries, etc. It's anybody's guess as to how much this all adds up to, but it is probably a few million dollars.
“A rudimentary engineering analysis of the data that was available to HELCO at the time of the AKP-1 application would have shown that the mass balance (in the plan to use a new microwave process to make the biofuel) was fatally flawed. Any competent engineer should have immediately looked at such a new process with an eye towards whether or not it is thermodynamically possible. The two consulting firms that HELCO hired to perform due diligence were unable to make such an evaluation and returned reports that were essentially disguised condemnations of the process and yet HELCO pressed ahead with the application.
“The point is that all this could have been avoided had HECO/HELCO done an appropriate level of objective due diligence before embarking on this ordeal. They did not. The purpose of this document is to demonstrate that failure and to propose that HECO/HELCO be held accountable."

Proposed `Aina Koa Pono refinery site off Wood Valley Road. Photo by Julia Neal

Concerning the first AKP proposal, which was turned down by the PUC, the writer points to the consultant Det Norske Veritas’ analysis, which “clearly states that their experts were unable to make a technical assessment of the technology due to lack of information.
“Paragraph 4.1.1 "...the revenue explained in the proposal is based on production of 32 million gallons of biodiesel per year however the DNV assessor could only credibly account for 23 million gallons of biodiesel per year." This is a clear indication that what little information provided to DNV was so grossly in error that their assessor could not rationalize it.
“Paragraph 4.1.2 "... nearly all essential data is missing regarding this aspect of the proposal, including overall mass and energy balances."
“DNV keys in on two critical issues: where does the oxygen go and where does the hydrogen come from? "...Given the chemical composition of the proposed feedstock compared to the claimed composition of the product, huge amounts of an oxygen-rich by-product (possibly C02) must be generated in the reactor. However, the proposal claims that C02 is produced in "small to nonexistent quantities". In addition, several process steps are not fully described and seem to involve chemicals not mentioned (e.g. ''H2 enrichment').
“In other words DNV did no fundamental technical evaluation of a process,” the writer contends.

Hopper at `Aina Koa Pono test facility in North Carolina.
Photo from `Aina Koa Pono

Concerning another analysis for the first AKP proposal, the writer points to the HERTY Assessment’s Executive Summary, Page 5: “‘...the majority of the available data was generated at the bench facility.’ Giassware (1.5 kg/batch) demonstration is just the first step in developing a chemical process. The pitfalls between glassware and commercialization are numerous and costly.
“Paragraph 1.3 ‘Mass and energy balances can be done around each unit operation of the process and around the entire process. Such an analysis is not part of the scope of work for the current assessment.’ A mass and energy balance is the key to determining the feasibility of a process and must be an integral part of the due diligence.
“Paragraph 5.3 ‘Work Is underway by BFT to measure key gas properties.’ This statement indicated that virtually nothing was known about one of the three major output streams.
“Paragraph 6 ‘Measurement and comparison of condensed oil quality with fuel standards is underway. More extensive product analysis data is needed on all three products on AKP feedstocks.’ In other words there was not enough information available to make a technical judgment.
“In other words HERTY did no fundamental technical evaluation of a process.”
The anonymous author, published by the PUC, concludes that “Both of the companies hired by HECO/HELCO to perform due diligence expressed serious concerns about the lack of data available to them and the state of development of the technology. Even an engineering undergraduate student could have examined the claims made in the application and determined that the mass balance was impossible.
“Nevertheless, HECO/HELCO pushed ahead with the application based on a process that was still in the glassware stage and little more than a pie-in-the-sky idea. This irresponsible action resulted in substantial expense to the ratepayers and taxpayers.
“HECO/HELCO should therefore not be allowed to include the associated expenses in their rate base and should reimburse the State and County of Hawai`i for their costs as well,” the writer recommends.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

DONATIONS OF GOODS to be shipped free to Philippines typhoon disaster victims are due Monday, according to organizer Gloria Camba, a director of the Big Island Filipino Community Council. She said the canned goods, tooth paste, soaps and other items will be taken to Hilo on Monday night for shipment to PI, courtesy of the company. However, monetary donations will be accepted on an ongoing basis at both the R&G store in Pahala and the Will & Grace store in Na`alehu, she said. Those who want to help can also donate online through the American Red Cross.

BASKETBALL SCORES from last night’s Trojan hosted tournament at Ka`u High School Gym are in. Ka`u girls beat Kealakehe 36 to 35 with a last-second shot by Kerrilynn Domondon. High scorers for Ka`u were Domondon with 15 and Shyann Flores-Carvalho with 9, reports Kalei Namohala, Ka`u High’s Athletic Director.
In the other game, Pahoa beat Lapahoehoe 64-15. The tournament continues today.

Caren Loebel-Fried will demonstrate block carving.
Photo from Volcano Art Center

CANNED GOODS and dry food items are being collected during the high school girls basketball tournament today at Ka`u High School gym in Pahala. One can of food earns free admission.

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY begins Friday, Nov. 22 with an exhibit at Volcano Art Center Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village to showcase artists who will teach workshops and classes in the upcoming year. From 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. take in free art activities for adults and kids, including Make your own Holiday Card, and Paint the Volcano, in the Hale Ho'omana Education Building at the Niaulani Campus on Old Volcano Hwy.
On Saturday, Nov. 23rd, festivities at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park begin with the renowned wreath exhibit, unique handmade ornaments for sale, demos by well known local artists, book and print signings, and a visit by Santa Claus.

Beloved Volcano artist Dietrich Varez and author David Eyre will sign their books and prints on Saturday, Nov. 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and will be joined by Nancee Cline from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m,
signing her book Queen Emma's Church in Kealakekua, Crossroads of Culture. Caren Loebel-Fried will demonstrate block carving and printing on Sunday, Nov. 24 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. She will also sign and personalize her books and prints.
In advance of Volcano Art Center's 40th anniversary in 2014, a limited edition poster has been created, featuring a stunning photo of the active Halema'ma'u crater by well known architect and photographer Boone Morrison. Morrison will be at Volcano Art Center Gallery to sign posters on Sunday, Nov. 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 pm. Posters will be available for purchase at the Gallery.
The upcoming events are inspired by the motto of Volcano Art Center: Where People, Art & Nature Thrive. All activities and demos are free of charge, but park entrance fees may apply. For questions and further information, call the Volcano Art Center Gallery at 808-967-7565.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Noxious weeds such as miconia are pervasive in Hawai`i. Photo from Big Island Invasive Species Committee

FAILING TO STEP UP PROTECTION FROM INVASIVE and harmful plants can be devastating in Hawai`i, sometimes called the “endangered species capital of the nation,” according to conservationists quoted in a story in this morning’s Honolulu Star-Advertiser. The article by Gary Kubota notes that the federal endangered species list has 853 plants, and 395 (or 46 percent) are native to Hawai`i and only live here, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

“In the past 37 years of having a Federal Noxious Weed List that could be key in protecting Hawai`i’s native species, the USDA has banned only 120 of more than 250,000 known plant species in the world,” Kubota writes.
Although a federal noxious weed list exists, states like Hawai`i have developed their own lists of undesirable alien plants which they believe are more comprehensive.
The last time the USDA added to its list was in December 2010, when nine species brought the total to 120. By comparison, there are more than 206 on California’s noxious weed list alone.
“The list is too short,” said Mark Fox, the Nature Conservancy of Hawai`i’s director of external affairs, reports the Star-Advertiser.
Kubota writes: “As Hawai`i continues with costly extraordinary efforts to rid pristine native forests of one invasive plant after another, environmentalists and scientists here and elsewhere are beginning to criticize the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s system of protecting the country from destructive alien plants.
“Critics say the system of screening for noxious weeds used by the department’s plant inspectors is inefficient and ineffective, costing taxpayers tens of millions of dollars annually. It also threatens native vegetation and agriculture and lacks a balanced approach to conservation, they maintain.
“As federal and state agencies spend millions of dollars annually in Hawai`i to try to control stifling weeds, the USDA allows some of the same destructive alien plants to enter the country and to be distributed and sold between states.”

The state's noxious weed list has no impact on
the sale or movements of plants such as
pampas grass. Photo from BIISC

Kubota points to what critics and observers consider a lack of accountability in the USDA’s screening system. He says the agency has the power to determine whether plants enter the country, and if an import becomes a problem, USDA defers responsibility for addressing it to other federal agencies or to states.
The state noxious weed list has no impact on the sale or movement of plants, “crippling the program,” said Neil Reimer, state Plant Pest Control Branch manager.
Under federal law, to be put on the list a plant must have the potential to be destructive to a large portion of the United States. “Because Hawai`i is generally a tropical environment, most of our problem species are tropical, and they cannot survive throughout most of the United States,” University of Hawai`i biologist Curt Daehler said.

Also under federal law, a plant that has become too “pervasive” to be eliminated keeps it from being put on the federal list.
North Carolina weed specialist Rick Iverson said a more meaningful basis for determining whether a plant is invasive is whether it can be quarantined.
Kubota says that, according to critics, a more effective screening method is to place the burden of proof that a plant will not prove harmful to the environment on the importer. Such a system was put in place in New Zealand in 1993 and in Australia in 1994.
In New Zealand, plants not on its list of non-invasive species require a risk assessment study before being put on the list.
Paul Champion, New Zealand’s principal scientist for the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, said the move to a pre-approved list has reduced the government cost of screening plants. “It has certainly reduced the risk of new pest species from entering New Zealand and allows more of a focus on species we already have in the country,” he said.
Australian agricultural officials said the system has worked well and comes with considerable economic benefits.
See staradvertiser.com.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

INTERESTED PERSONS CAN APPLY TO BECOME members of an advisory committee for the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Forest Stewardship Program. The Forest Stewardship Advisory Committee will have several open seats in early 2014.

FSAC reviews and recommends for approval all project proposals and management plans for the state’s Forest Stewardship and Forest Legacy Programs.
Ideal candidates are those with significant forestry and/or conservation experience in Hawai`i. The committee meets four times a year in venues throughout Hawai`i, and appointments are for three years.
To download the application and learn more about the Forest Stewardship and Forest Legacy Programs in Hawai`i, see dlnr.hawaii.gov/forestry/lap/fsp.
Applications are due by Tuesday, Dec. 31.
For more information, contact Irene Sprecher, of DLNR’s Division of Forestry and Wildlife, at 808-587-4167 or Melissa.I.Sprecher@hawaii.gov.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

DLNR seeks public input on amendments to rules
regarding stony coral and live rock.
Photo from Wikipedia

STONY CORAL AND LIVE ROCK are the subject of public hearings by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, which plans to amend Hawai`i Administrative Rules relating to their conservation. Live rocks are those with sealife living on them, and it is illegal to take, break, move, pollute, poison or otherwise damage them.

The proposed amendments would clarify what activities constitute “damage” to stony coral and live rock and establish a formula for calculating administrative penalties. The rules include the possibility of fining for each coral colony or small areas where they live.
All interested persons are urged to attend a public hearing to present relevant information and individual opinion for the DLNR to consider. Written testimony can be sent by Friday, Dec. 27, to the Division of Aquatic Resources, 1151 Punchbowl Street, Room 330, Honolulu, HI 96813.
Hawai`i Island hearings are this Tuesday, Dec. 10 at Kealakehe High School Cafeteria in Kona from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and this Wednesday, Dec. 11 at Aupuni Center Conference Room, 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 101 in Hilo, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
See stony coral and live rock draft rules at state.hi.us/dlnr/dar/rules/drafts/stony_coral_live_%20rock_dr.pdf.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

USGS HVO map shows distribution of small particles ejected
by Kilauea volcano.

IN ITS CURRENT ISSUE OF VOLCANO WATCH, U.S Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory tracks the flight of particles ejected from Kilauea Volcano.

Sometime between 1790 and 1823, an explosive eruption deposited ash and small particles in the area shown on the map. The dots are places where the average particle size, in millimeters, was measured. Black lines, or contours, connect equal sizes. For the particles described in the article, red lines show rising pathways, and green lines show falling pathways.
Volcano Watch is a weekly newsletter written by HVO scientists. Article topics range from volcanic features on the Big Island, volcanic hazards, informational topics of Long Valley, Montserrat, or Alaska to topics about HVO.
See more at hvo.wr.usgs.gov/volcanowatch.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

THE WESTBOUND LANE OF CRATER RIM DRIVE, fronting Steam Vents, will be closed for up to 10 weeks while crews replace a deteriorated water main, beginning tomorrow, according to a statement from Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.
Traffic controllers will alternate traffic flow through the single open lane from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Wait times to pass the construction area should not exceed 15 minutes.
Both lanes will be open to traffic if there is no active construction.
The project will replace approximately 3,000 feet of failing pipe that supplies water to Jaggar Museum and USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

KA`U SCHOOL OF THE ARTS PRESENTS FALL CREATIVITY DAY today until 3 p.m. at Discovery Harbour Community Hall, offering batik, `ohe kapala (bamboo stamp making), dying, sewing and jewelry making workshops.

PAHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE IS at 1 p.m. today. Starting at the armory on Pikake Street, the parade winds its way through town, making a stop at Ka`u Hospital.

Carl Ray Villaverde Photo from NPS

MUSICIAN AND HILO NATIVE CARL RAY VILLAVERDE performs Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. After spending more than a decade on the mainland teaching `ukulele and guitar at Santa Barbara City College and performing throughout California, Villaverde returns to the islands with his new CD, Hawaiian Magic, on sale at the show. $2 donations support park program.

FREE TRAINING TO HELP THE PUBLIC follow the 2014 state Legislature takes place Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Pahala Plantation House. Sponsored by the state of Hawai`i Legislative Reference Bureau’s Public Access Room, the training demystifies the state lawmaking process and demonstrates ways people can participate in the Legislature.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Santa and his helpers spread holiday greetings during the 35th annual Pahala Christmas Parade. Photo by Julia Neal

THE DIE-HARD CHRISTMAS PARADERS wove through Pahala Town yesterday for the 35th annual event organized by Eddie Andrade. Andrade said he was praying hard in church Sunday morning for the clouds to part and rays of hope to shine down on Pahala. They did.

Members of Pahala Holy Rosary Church entertain parade onlookers.
Photo by Julia Neal

About a half hour before the 1 p.m. parade, a heavy rain and near-flood conditions stopped, and the parade went on. Ka`u Coffee Mill, which helps fund the event, Volcano School of Arts & Sciences, Keoki Kahumoku’s `ukulele kids, Miss Ka`u Coffee Tiare Lee Shibuya, Tutu & Me, Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Pahala Preschool, County Council member Brenda Ford, the Filipino Club, Pahala Fire Department, the police department, Frosty the Snowman, the reindeer and a Christmas elephant, along with Santa and his helpers, paraded up and down the village slope.

Santa threw candy to the children and spoke to many of the onlookers by name. The entire parade visited Ka`u Hospital to entertain the residents and staff, with the event wrapping up at Holy Rosary Church for lunch.

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

CHANGING LIGHT FIXTURES, REPLACING TRANSFORMERS, chillers and installing energy efficient control panels at the state building in Hilo and around the islands is a $17.4 million contract that is going to a Framingham, Massachusetts company. The state Department of Accounting and General Services awarded Ameresco, Inc. the Energy Savings Performance Contract.

Miss Ka`u Coffee Tiare Lee Shibuya braves the possibility of rain
in a convertible driven by her mother, Terry-Lee. Photo by Julia Neal

The ESPC project is expected to save DAGS more than a million dollars in the first year and lower operational costs by $28 million over the 20-year term.
“I commend DAGS and Ameresco for working together in developing a comprehensive efficiency and renewable energy project that is on target with our commitment to energy independence and sustainability,” Gov. Neil Abercrombie said. “Ameresco’s innovative approach will assist DAGS in reaching its energy savings and emission reduction goals.”  

The design-build DAGS project is expected to reduce energy and water consumption through the installation of state-of-the-art technology in the 33 buildings and will also generate renewable energy at 13 facilities.

The approximate two-year design-build implementation period will include energy conservation measures such as replacing or retrofitting 13,000 light fixtures, expanding the energy management system to include 2,750 control points, installing seven new chillers with bearingless compressors and replacing 53 transformers with premium efficiency custom-wound transformers. The new photovoltaic arrays will consist of over 3,370 solar panels connected to 17 inverters spread across the five islands.   The new solar arrays are expected to cumulatively generate about 1.3 million kilowatt-hours a year in renewable power from the sun, which will help DAGS facilities lower the state’s dependence on electricity produced from fossil-fueled power plants.   The annual emissions reduction is expected to be approximately 5.6 million pounds of CO2, 14,200 pounds of SO2 and 12,700 pounds of N2O, the equivalent of taking 466 cars off the road, according to a statement released by the company.
See more at ameresco.com.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Tutu & Me decorates its van for Pahala Christmas Parade yesterday.
Photo by Julia Neal

THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS has contracted with SMS to conduct a phone survey of Hawai`i residents and small businesses over the next few weeks to find out how people in Hawai`i are using their Internet connections today and how they plan to use Internet service in the future.

The survey is part of the state’s effort to improve broadband capabilities, address anticipated future needs and ensure that Hawai`i is competitive with the rest of the world as a venue for digital commerce.
DCCA is part of a multi-agency state effort to move to high-speed broadband and meet Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s goal of providing affordable Internet access to Hawai`i’s residents.

The phone calls will be made to businesses between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays and to residences from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. The calls are confidential, and no names will be used. No personal identifying information will be requested, nor will it be required.

The phone survey is being conducted in conjunction with DCCA’s broadband speed test campaign to measure Internet access speeds around the state and to look for gaps in connection.

People around the state can go to hibroadbandmap.org/speedtest (or goo.gl/e23RPl) to be part of the campaign to measure and improve broadband access around the islands.

County Council member Brenda Ford receives a warm greeting
from Frosty the Snowman. Photo by Julia Neal

The speed test can be performed using a desktop or mobile web browser.
In addition to its regulatory oversight of the franchised cable industry, the Cable Television Division has been given the responsibility to implement activities to promote ubiquitous access to high speed broadband at affordable prices across the state.
According to its website, SMS has provided advanced technology products and services to the federal government since 1976.
See sms.com.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

PUBLIC COMMENT ON THE LATEST draft document for the Ka`u Community Development Plan is due one week from today on Monday, Dec. 16. Appendix V4C: Local Economic Development Plan Analysis is available to read at area libraries and community centers and online at kaucdp.info. The public can submit testimony using feedback forms found with the reference documents and on the website.

The appendix discusses opportunities in various sectors of Ka`u’s economy, including retail.

“Overall, the generation of future new jobs through the retail sector in Ka`u is modest, with the possible exception of Ocean View,” the analysis states. It lists keys to the future development of the retail sector:

Ed Olson stands by his Ka`u Coffee Mill's float carrying Keoki Kahumoku's `ukulele
kids and students from Volcano School of Arts & Sciences. Photo by Julia Neal

Development of Other Emerging Sectors: Other sectors, including agriculture, renewable energy, health and wellness, creative and visitor industries could be developed in ways that generate and support retail opportunities.
Fostering Supportive Networks: An expansion of Ka`u’s business support network could provide access to capital, marketing, distribution and other business development services.
Creation of a Locally Focused Retail Campaign: A viable and on-going “plug the leaks” campaign could be created to raise the awareness, willingness and capacity of residents to buy locally produced services and goods.

The document suggests that, for Pahala and Na`alehu, “any retail growth will require a reversal of declining population trends and/or an increased capacity to capture visitor traffic and local residents who shop outside the district.
“However, while population projections for Na`alehu do not appear to support increases in retail activity, the town’s historical role as a commercial center for the region along with its social and physical infrastructure support may provide some impetus for retail expansion.”

To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Pahala Filipino Community Association joins Pahala Christmas parade.
Photo by Julia Neal

INTERESTED PERSONS CAN STILL SIGN UP to help Friends of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park with their Forest Restoration Project Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Volunteers plant native seedling trees on Mauna Loa strip in the national park.

Volunteers should be at least 12 years old and be able to hike at least one mile over uneven terrain through brush in an area with a moderate slope. Sturdy walking shoes and long pants are required, along with gear for variable weather conditions (be prepared for sun or rain with a hat, raincoat, sunscreen, etc.) plus drinking water and a lunch.

To sign up, call 985-7373 or email forest@fhvnp.org today.

MUSICIAN AND HILO NATIVE CARL RAY VILLAVERDE performs tomorrow at 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. After spending more than a decade on the mainland teaching `ukulele and guitar at Santa Barbara City College and performing throughout California, Villaverde returns to the islands with his new CD, Hawaiian Magic, on sale at the show. $2 donations support park program.

Pahala Preschool thanks the community for its support during Pahala Christmas Parade. Photo by Julia Neal

MEMBERS OF `AHA PUHALA O PUNA SHARE THE ART of lauhala weaving to perpetuate this Hawaiian skill Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the lanai of Kilauea Visitor Center in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Participants weave their very own bracelets from leaves of the hala (pandanus) tree. Lauhala ornaments crafted by the club will be available for sale. This free program is part of Hawai`i Volcanoes’ ongoing `Ike Hana No`eau “Experience the Skillful Work” workshops.

Hawai`i's Public Access Room
offers training Thursday at
Pahala Plantation House.

HANA HOU RESTAURANT’S KEIKI CHRISTMAS PARTY is Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The annual event includes buffet dinner, lucky number prizes, keiki ID and photos with Santa. Call 929-9717 for more information.

HAWAI`I LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE BUREAU’S Public Access Room offers free training to help the public follow the 2014 state Legislature Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Pahala Plantation House. The training demystifies the state lawmaking process and demonstrates ways people can participate in the Legislature.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Hawai`i Legislature's Public Access Room offers training on the lawmaking process Thursday at Pahala Plantation House.

WEST KA`U’S STATE REP. DENNY COFFMAN is resigning. Coffman recently lost his wife after a long illness, and his daughter is currently battling cancer. He plans to move to the mainland to help care for her and his grandchild.

Denny Coffman

“I am extremely honored to have been elected by the people of Hawai`i Island and to serve three terms in the Legislature,” he said in a statement. “It is with a heavy heart that I made this decision, but as a father and grandfather, I am firmly committed to my family and will be there for my daughters and grandchildren in their time of need. I leave knowing that I have represented the communities of Hawai`i Island and the state to the best of my ability.”
Coffman was chair of the House Committee on Energy & Environmental Protection during the 2011 and 2012 sessions. He also currently serves on the Judiciary, Water & Land and Ocean, Marine Resources & Hawaiian Affairs committees.
“Denny served our country and state with great honor and strength of purpose,” said Gov. Neil Abercrombie. “He represented the people of Hawai`i Island well and helped set the state on a viable path to a responsible and economically sustainable energy policy, which will benefit generations to come.”
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

HAWAI`I DEMOCRATIC CHAIR DANTE CARPENTER said Coffman “has done a helluva job for West Hawai`i and the state of Hawai`i. We wish him well in tending to his daughter’s physical ailment at this time.”
According to a story in Civil Beat, Carpenter said talks are underway regarding the process of nominating Coffman’s replacement.

Brenda Ford

Hawai`i’s Democratic Party has 30 days to submit a list of three names for consideration by the governor, who, according to Hawai`i law, has 60 days from the time of the resignation, Dec. 20, to appoint a replacement.
Sen. Josh Green said, “Denny stands out in how analytical and nonpolitical he was as a legislator.” Green and other lawmakers pointed out Coffman’s contributions to ethical standards and energy policy, including development of renewable sources such as geothermal.
See civilbeat.com.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL MEMBER BRENDA FORD said she does not plan to pursue the seat being vacated by state Rep. Denny Coffman. “I am staying on the council through the end of this term,” Ford said. “That is all that I am planning for at this time. I feel I can best serve my constituents by district and the island by staying on the County Council.
“I feel a strong sense of duty here. I think I can do more here at this time.”
Other names being considered, according to Civil Beat, are County Council District 7 member Dru Kanuha, representing portions of South and North Kona; former District 6 Council member Brittany Smart, who sought state Rep. Bob Herkes’ vacated seat in the last election; and Maile David, a candidate for County Council District 6 in the previous two elections.
See civilbeat.com.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

KA`U HOSPITAL COMMUNITY NEEDS SURVEY is available for area residents to fill out online to help guide the future of health care in the district.

Survey questions ask where Ka`u residents are receiving health care, from emergency services to cardiology, cancer and other ailments. There are questions about insurance and needs for improvements as well as the satisfaction of Ka`u residents with current services. The short survey can be taken at surveymonkey.com/s/93HQ5MX.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT HAS HELPED 15,318 seniors in Hawai`i save a total of $35,300,393 on their prescription drug costs so far this year, according to U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz. “The Affordable Care Act is saving Hawai`i’s seniors real money on their prescription drugs,” Schatz said. “The implementation of the law needs to be improved, but this is good policy that is helping seniors, and we can’t go back to a time when seniors were choosing between food and prescriptions. We need to all work together to make sure the law works and keeps delivering benefits to seniors and people across Hawai`i.”
The data, released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, reveals that beneficiaries have saved an average of $921 each – equivalent to the national cost of approximately four months’ worth of groceries for Americans 71 and older.
To comment on or “like” this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

MORE THAN TEN PERCENT ARE UNINSURED. That’s the word on Hawai`i Island population’s health insurance coverage. Statewide, as of the end of last week, 574 residents had signed up for health insurance through the local insurance locator service, Hawai`i Health Connector, said its spokesman Bobby Lambrix.

Ka`u Rural Health Community Association, Inc. helps local
residents sign up for health insurance.

In a press release yesterday, Hawai`i Health Connector’s new manager Tom Matsuda said, “I’m committed to devoting my full attention and energy to continuously improve the Connector. Although the Connector has made major strides forward in comparison to some of the other state marketplaces, we have more room for improvement. The Connector team will continue to focus on ongoing process improvements, and I will be responsible for keeping all of our stakeholders apprised of our progress on a regular basis.” Health Connector representatives said they hope many people will sign up by Dec. 23.
Ka`u Rural Health Community Association, Inc. has received a $125,000 grant to help sign up people locally. Call 928-0101. The organization’s offices are at 96-3126 Puahala St. in Pahala. Email krhcai@yahoo.com. Its website is krhcai.com. Hawai`i Health Connector's website is hawaiihealthconnector.com.
The Kokua role for KRHCAI is to reach and educate individuals, families and small business owners. The grant also supports providing jobs in the local community and providing impartial information about health insurance plan options.
“Partnering with Hawai`i Health Connector allows us to work directly with our community to provide critical health coverage information," said Jessie Marques, KRHCAI executive director.

KA`U’S U.S. REP. TULSI GABBARD is asking constituents to support an increase in the minimum wage. “Millions of people in our communities go to work every single day and still come up short, relying on social programs to support their families. Right now, a family with two children and a parent earning minimum wage lives below the poverty line.
“For over four years, the federal minimum wage has been frozen at $7.25 an hour, even though the prices of everyday necessities are going up. Congress has the opportunity right now to raise it.
“Now is the time to raise the minimum wage. It’s the right thing for our hardworking families, and it’s the right thing for our economy.

Tulsi Gabbard

“There’s just no way that families can survive on $7.25 an hour. As we’ve watched our economy grow, the minimum wage has remained the same.
“The solution is simple, but despite the clear benefits and overwhelming support by a majority of Americans, opponents in Congress continue to block minimum wage legislation. We can’t stand by and allow this to happen.”
Gabbard asks interested persons to add their names to the list of people supporting an increase to the minimum wage at increasetheminimumwage.com.

BLAISE DE LIMA, FROM REP. TULSI GABBARD’S OFFICE, meets with Ka`u constituents tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pahala Community Center to hear ideas and concerns and bring them to Gabbard’s attention. For more information, call 808-541-1986.

AFTER SPENDING MORE THAN A DECADE on the mainland teaching `ukulele and guitar at Santa Barbara City College and performing throughout California, Hilo native Carl Ray Villaverde performs music from his new CD Hawaiian Magic this evening at 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. $2 donations support park program.

Participants weave lauhala bracelets tomorrow.
NPS Photo by Jay Robinson

LAUHALA WEAVING IS THE TOPIC tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the lanai of Kilauea Visitor Center in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park when members of `Aha Puhala O Puna share the art. Participants weave their very own bracelets from leaves of the hala (pandanus) tree. Lauhala ornaments crafted by the club will be available for sale.

HANA HOU RESTAURANT’S KEIKI CHRISTMAS PARTY is tomorrow from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The annual event includes buffet dinner, lucky number prizes, keiki ID and photos with Santa. Call 929-9717 for more information.

HAWAI`I LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE BUREAU’S Public Access Room offers free training to help the public follow the 2014 state Legislature Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Pahala Plantation House. The training demystifies the state lawmaking process and demonstrates ways people can participate in the Legislature.

KA`U CHAMBER OF COMMERCE holds its annual dinner and meeting on Thursday, Dec. 12 at Tiki Mama's, near the corner of Aloha and Hwy 11 in Ocean View. Cost is $12 per person for dinner. Entertainment at 5 p.m. will feature live music by The Last Fling Dance Band and magic by Allan Humble. Dinner and voting are at 6 p.m. RSVP to cytodbd@aol.com or 930-4697.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

ALSO SEE KAUCALENDAR.COM AND FACEBOOK.COM/KAUCALENDAR.

Latest Images