The Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs, Hawaiʻi Island

Ka`u High girls basketball team hosts Kealakehe today after winning their first game in four years Wednesday.
Photo from Marlene Freitas

FEDERAL AUTHORITIES ARE OFFERING a $10,000 reward for information leading to indentification and conviction of Arman B. Johnson’s killer. Johnson’s body was found nearly 10 years ago on April 13, 2005 in the Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.

“A decade has passed since the murder of Arman Johnson,” FBI Special Agent-in-Charge Paul D. Delacourt said. “We are hoping that the passage of time may embolden a witness to come forward and tell us the truth about how and why this tragic act of violence occurred.”

Arman B. Johnson

According to autopsy reports, Johnson was shot execution-style with a single gunshot from a handgun to the upper-back/neck.

A passerby found Johnson on the southern edge of the park near the 71-mile marker of Hwy 11, about 100 yards from the edge of the road near Kahuku Ranch. He was wearing a tank-top, swim trunks, socks and slippers.
According to FBI special agent Tom Simon, “Our evidence response team, who processed the crime scene, is reasonably confident that he was murdered right there at that spot. It wasn’t a situation where he was murdered elsewhere and his body was dumped at the Volcanoes National Park.”

Johnson, 44, lived on both the Kona and Hilo sides of the island after moving from Seattle in 1984. He had a bachelor’s degree in sports medicine and worked as a massage therapist at local resorts. He also hosted a reggae music show on local radio.
Tips can be called into the Honolulu FBI at 808-566-4300.
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Sen. Russell Ruderman

THE STATE SENATE COMMITTEE ON WATER & LAND yesterday rejected Gov. David Ige’s nomination of Carleton Ching to head the Department of Land & Natural Resources. Ching is a lobbyist for Castle & Cooke, one of the largest developers in the state. He has served on boards of the Building Industry Association and the Land Use Research Foundation, a nonprofit organization that promotes interests of the development industry.

Ka`u’s Sen. Russell Ruderman was one of five of the seven-member committee who voted against Ching. “The nominee’s career track has been the polar opposite of DLNR’s mission,” Ruderman said. “No nominee will know everything, but would we hire a tax director with no tax experience or an Attorney General with no law experience? Of course not. But this nominee has no eperience toward the mission; a huge disqualification. To say that such subject matter experience is not necessary shows a surprising lack of respect to those who care so much. Management experience in no way compensates for subject matter experience. The nominee has several times referred to land as a piece of dirt. It’s an expression, but it’s telling. Not `aina, but dirt, to be sold and profitted from. I find this troubling. On endangered species, the nominee has said we need to prioritize, and this is true, but to a scientist or an environmentalist, there is no value on these species. Just like the land, once they’re gone, they’re gone forever. Claiming that he was unaware of LURF and BIA actions is unacceptable.”

Although the committee rejected it, the nomination now goes to the full Senate for consideration. Announcement of the vote is required 24-hours in advance.

The public can provide testimony at capitol.hawaii.gov.
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WITH THE SEVENTH ANNIVERSARY of Kilauea’s summit eruption at Halema`uma`u coming up, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory discusses the its history in the current issue of Volcano Watch.
“While Kilauea Volcano’s East Rift Zone eruption at Pu`u `O`o has been making headlines with the June 27 lava flow and its hazards, Kilauea’s summit eruption within Halema`uma`u Crater has steadily continued in the absence of much press,” the article states. “However, the lack of media attention does not reflect on the eruption’s remarkable nature.

“Kilauea’s ongoing summit eruption began on March 19, 2008, after several months of increasing seismic tremor and gas emissions. A small ‘throat clearing’ explosion opened a new crater (informally called the Overlook crater, because it is located immediately below the former National Park visitor overlook) on the wall of Halema`uma`u Crater. During 2008–2009, lava was only occasionally seen deep within this crater and was often masked by thick volcanic fume. In February 2010, however, lava rose within the Overlook crater and established a large lava lake that has persisted to today.

Caldera & Stars by Peter Anderson

“When the Overlook crater first opened, it was about 115 feet wide, but today, it is 560 feet by 720 feet in size. This enlargement is the result of frequent collapses of the crater walls, some of which have dropped rocks directly into the lava lake, triggering small explosions of lava spatter and gas.
“Unlike the East Rift Zone eruption which sends lava flows out onto the slopes of Kilauea, the summit eruption emits primarily gas, along with a tiny amount of ash and fine particles (for example, Pele’s hair). To date, the lava within the summit vent has not flowed out of the Overlook crater. Instead, lava rises into the lake, releases gas and cools, and then sinks back into the magmatic system in a process called “magmatic convection.”
“This containment within the crater lowers the risk posed by the lava itself, but the summit eruption creates a different kind of hazard that has a much farther reach than any lava flow. The continuous gas emissions create volcanic air pollution, commonly called vog, which affects communities and agriculture in downwind areas, sometimes statewide. Vog is a respiratory irritant that can cause coughing, sore throats and headaches in otherwise healthy individuals and can aggravate symptoms in people with pre-existing ailments, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The agricultural industry, particularly in the Ka`u District on the Island of Hawai`i, has been hit hard by vog, which has damaged crops and corroded fences and other metal infrastructure.
“Geologically, the Kilauea summit eruption stands out for the size of the lava lake it has created. The lava lake in Halema`uma`u is most likely the second-largest lava lake on Earth, exceeded only by the lava lake in Nyiragongo Volcano in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. There are a few other – and much smaller – lava lakes on Earth, but the Halema`uma`u and Nyiragongo lava lakes are in a class of their own.
“The expansive size of the lava lake in Halema`uma`u also translates to copious amounts of emitted heat. A recent study by University of Hawai`i Manoa researchers used satellite thermal images to calculate heat output from many of the Earth’s active volcanoes over the past 15 years, and Kilauea – counting the summit and East Rift Zone eruptions together –was at the top of the list. The researchers state that Kilauea’s top rank in heat output justifies its unofficial title as the most active volcano on Earth.
“It’s not clear how long Kilauea’s summit eruption will last, but recent monitoring indicators show no signs of it slowing down – or speeding up. Overall, the eruption has been characterized by a remarkable degree of steadiness. Halema`uma`u Crater hosted a nearly continuous lava lake for at least 100 years (first written accounts are from the early 1800s) through the early 1900s, a testament to the potential for long-lasting eruptions at the summit of Kilauea.
“Is it possible that Kilauea Volcano’s current summit eruption will persist for decades, as it did a century ago? No one knows for sure, but if it does, we will all have to continue adapting to the effects of another long-term eruption.”

See hvo.wr.usgs.gov.

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Sophomore Sheri Lynn Freitas pitched a complete game for Ka`u High
Wednesday. Photo from Marlene Freitas

FOLLOWING THEIR 9-8 WIN playing Hawai`i Prep Wednesday, Ka`u High girls basketball team hosts Kealakehe today at 3 p.m. In the bottom of the seventh inning, freshman Analei Emmsley-Ah Yee, playing her first game for the Trojans, won the game with a hit. Originally called a 12-8 win, officials revised the score after concluding the winning hit was not a grand slam.
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KA`U CHAPTER OF HAWAI`I FARMERS UNION UNITED meets tomorrow at 9 a.m. at Gilligan’s Café in Discovery Harbour. Topics include a review of the organization’s mission, a legislative update and, tentatively, a guest speaker on marijuana legislation.

For more information, email Marla Hunter at ekenuifarm@aol.com.

KA`U COFFEE GROWERS AND PROCESSORS are invited to meetings to inform them about new coffee shipping permit conditions. Hawai`i Department of Agriculture offers two opportunities to participate. The first is in Hilo on Monday, March 16 at 10 a.m. at HDOA Plant Quarantine Office,16 E. Lanikaula Street. The second takes place on Tuesday, March 17 at 12:30 p.m. at Kona Cooperative Extension Service Conference Room, 79-7381 Mamalahoa Hwy in Kealakekua.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB of the Big Island holds its third annual Youth of the Year Banquet & Awards Ceremony a week from today on Friday, March 20 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Hilo Hawaiian Hotel. The theme is Inspiring Youth, and participants can dress as what they wanted to be when they were young.

To purchase tickets and for more information, contact Gail Hamasu at gail@bgcbi.org or 961-5536.

KA`U HUNTERS CAN REGISTER for Walk Your Talk, the second annual Jackpot Hunting Tournament scheduled for Saturday, April 18 in Pahala. According to organizers, the tournament is provided to hunters “to prove to everyone that you, your team and your dogs are worthy of being a top contender in the hog hunting industry.”

Hunting starts at 6 a.m., with weigh-in from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cash prizes go to biggest bar, biggest sow, biggest lahoole and longest tusk.
Entry fees of $100 are due by April 10.
For more information, contact Cameron at 808-646-1316.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

Division of Forestry and Wildlife, U.S. Forest Service and ranch representatives sit next to a koa tree on Kealakekua Heritage Ranch, adjacent to Ka`awaloa Forest. The two areas are the first conservation easements held by DLNR under U.S. Forest Service's Forest Legacy Program. Photo from USFS

PRESERVATION OF A 1,000-ACRE PARCEL of land in South Kona completes a vast area of uninterrupted charitable trust lands along with protected private  and public lands extending more than 50 miles to the Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Owners agreed to a $3.2 million conservation easement with the state Department of Land & Natural Resources using federal Forest Legacy Program funds.

U.S. Forest Service Pacific Southwest
Regional Forester Randy Moore

With the acquisition of the property, another 10,000 acres total of native Hawaiian forest are now protected from development by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, U.S. Forest Service and Hokukano Ranch. The area, known as Ka`awaloa Forest, together with the adjacent Kealakekua Heritage Ranch (9,000 acres), represent the first two conservation easements held by DLNR under the Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program. These conservation easements will permanently restrict development and maintain sustainable harvest levels.
“The partnership we have with DLNR is invaluable as we look to restore and protect these crucial resources,” said U.S. Forest Service Pacific Southwest Regional Forester Randy Moore. “We are excited for DLNR to pick up this conservation easement and add to our total of 47,055 protected acres on the Big Island.”
Hawai`i County had previously approved a development plan for the construction of 500 residential lots and a golf course.With the region’s history of nearly 200 years of timber extraction, many of the large trees – specifically koa and sandalwood – were harvested. Coupled with pressures from grazing animals, many of these forests have not fully recovered and have ultimately suffered a significant loss of forest cover. With a goal of sustainable management, the current owners are re-investing in the forest and encouraging regeneration of Hawai`i’s native trees.
The property also provides a variety of non-timber economic activities, including plant collection, tourism and hunting. The Ka`awaloa conservation easement will protect ecosystems that support several endemic Hawaiian birds. Preserving the Ka`awaloa Forest, part of the fog-shrouded South Kona cloud forests, will also directly contribute to safeguarding the water supply and water quality in a region subject to severe drought.
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Ka`u Farmers Union United Acting Secretary Marla Hunter with husband Peter.

KA`U CHAPTER OF HAWAI`I FARMERS UNION UNITED is seeking members. At the organization’s meeting this morning, President Greg Smith said HFUU will have a booth at Ka`u Coffee Festival to inform the public about its mission and goals and sign up members.

“It’s all about the food!” said a statement from KFUU. “The organization advocates for the sovereign right of farmers to create and sustain vibrant and prosperous agricultural communities for the benefit of all Hawai`i through cooperation, education and legislation.”
By becoming members, residents support small-scale agriculture, help increase food security on the Big Island, help improve legislation to support good farming practices and healthy agriculture, participate in educational workshops to inform farmers and consumers about current issues, build communication between farmers and consumers, and keep updated on local issues by receiving a weekly newsletter.
Future goals include continuing to build farm-to-school programs, cultivating greater awareness of food sources, creating more educational workshops on local farming and protecting the `aina and increasing networking between farmers and consumers to create more food security.
For more information, contact Greg and Gail Smith at gailandgreg@mac.com or 4430-3300.
Also see hfuuhi.org.
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HAWAI`I’S HOUSE FINANCE COMMITTEE has passed out a proposed budget that, according to a statement from the committee, would create a proactive framework for the state to consistently spend within its means.
HB500 HD1, which appropriates funds for operating and capital improvement costs of the Executive Branch for the current biennium, fiscal years 2015-2016 and 2016-2017, is scheduled for a vote next week by the full House.
For FY2015-2016, the bill offers $6.5 billion in general funds and $12.7 billion in all means of financing. For FY2016-2017, it appropriates $6.8 billion in general funds and $13.1 billion in all financing means.
The budget includes $400,000 to staff a new function within the governor’s office to aggressively go after federal grants, an initiative that Ige mentioned in his State of the State address.
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SEN. MAZIE HIRONO INTRODUCED the Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act Thursday, a bill that would expedite the visa process for children of Filipino World War II veterans. These veterans were offered U.S. citizenship in recognition of their service, but this hard-earned benefit did not extend to their children. Thousands of families have been separated for decades because of this oversight.

“Time is running out for the diminishing number of Filipino World War II veterans who fought and sacrificed alongside American servicemen. We as a nation made a promise to these veterans that must be kept,” Hirono said. “These brave soldiers didn’t flinch when the United States called them to battle in the Pacific Theater. The few surviving veterans are in their 80s and 90s and have been waiting for more than a half century to be reunited with loved ones, and we owe this benefit to them.

Filipino American Veterans from World War II. Photo from filipknow.com

While this bill helps thousands of World War II veterans and their families, we still must come together and pass permanent comprehensive immigration reform. As an immigrant who came to the United States with my mother at a young age, I remain committed to the fact that any effort to reform our immigration system should also address the challenges families face.”
Filipino veterans were granted citizenship in recognition of their service to the United States in World War II. Their children, however, were not granted citizenship. Currently, veterans must file for a family visa to be reunited with their children in the United States. Because of an antiquated immigration system, it can take more than 20 years for these applications to be reviewed. The Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act exempts the veterans’ children, about 20,000 individuals in all, from the numerical limitation on immigrant visas.
Hirono and the co-introducer Sen. Harry Reid made fighting for Filipino veterans to receive this benefit a top priority during their time in Congress, but it grows more urgent every year. Of the surviving Filipino World War II veterans, it is estimated that less than 6,000 are U.S. citizens and reside in this country and will thus be able to take advantage of this bill. The Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act was included in the bipartisan comprehensive immigration bill that passed the Senate in 2013.
“We urge Republicans to take up this bill that helps Filipino veteran families and fixes our entire broken immigration system once and for all,” Hirono said.
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IN KA`U HIGH SPORTS, the boys varsity volleyball team beat Konawaena 3-0 yesterday on their home court. Scores were 25-11, 25-22 and 25-7. They travel to Hilo Monday for a match at 6 p.m.
Kealakehe overcame Ka`u girls softball team at home yesterday. Final score was 2-17 after four innings. Sheri Lynn Freitas got three hits; Sky Kanakaole-Esperon, 2; and Kehaulani Ke, 1. Their next game is Monday at Kohala.
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Volcano Art Center offers Spring Break Art next week. Image from VAC

DURING SPRING BREAK, Ka`u second- through fifth-graders are invited to participate in Volcano Art Center’s Spring Break Art from next Tuesday through Friday. There will be art and crafts from noon to 4 p.m. at VAC’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village.

Artists Ken Charon and Patricia Hoban will teach drawing and painting, and there will be crafts and art classes with instructors Dina Kageler, Lanaya Deily and Marsha Hee.
It’s the second year VAC has offered this program. There are no fees, but enrollment is limited. To register or for more information, call 967-8222 or volcanoartcenter.org.

KA`U COFFEE GROWERS AND PROCESSORS are invited to meetings to inform them about new coffee shipping permit conditions. Hawai`i Department of Agriculture offers two opportunities to participate. The first is in Hilo on Monday, March 16 at 10 a.m. at HDOA Plant Quarantine Office,16 E. Lanikaula Street. The second takes place on Tuesday, March 17 at 12:30 p.m. at Kona Cooperative Extension Service Conference Room, 79-7381 Mamalahoa Hwy in Kealakekua.

JAZZ IN THE FOREST, Volcano Art Center’s spring jazz series kicks off a week from today on Saturday, March 21 with Grammy Award-winning vocalist Pauline Wilson; Jr. Volcano Choy on keyboards, vocals & trumpet; Brian McCree on acoustic bass; and Bruce David on drums.

Two Jazz in the Forest shows will be offered, with a matinee at 4:30 p.m. and an evening performance at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for the matinee are $15 for VAC members or $18 for non-members, and for the evening show are $18 for VAC members or $20 for non-members.
To purchase tickets online, see volcanoartcenter.org.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

Snow continues to blanket the summits of Mauna Loa, in the foreground, and Mauna Kea following last week's winter storms.
Photo from NOAA;s Earth System Research Lab. See story below.

MARCO MANGELSDORF, SPOKESMAN for Hawai`i Island Energy Cooperative and president of ProVision Solar, Inc., answers frequently asked questions about the organization at hahahahamakuasprings.com, the website of Richard Ha, co-op member and owner of Hamakua Springs Country Farms. HIEC is a group of business and community leaders researching public ownership of the island’s electric utility.

The hui is exploring the possibility of emulating the Kaua`i Island Utility Cooperative model and is participating in the Hawaiian Electric Industries-NextEra Energy merger docket by proposing an option that offers the possibility of democratic ownership and control of the island’s energy infrastructure.

Marco Mangelsdorf

Is HIEC against the proposed merger? HIEC takes no position either for or against the proposed merger. HIEC desires to explore through the proceedings the unique perspective, goals and objectives of the residents and communities of Hawai`i Island, and depending on the outcome of the proceedings, consider whether a different ownership model for energy services on Hawai`i Island may provide a positive alternative. A sound discussion should include evaluation of the pending transaction in relation to potential future options that may be in the public interest for the unique interest of the island of Hawai`i. HIEC’s participation can assist the development of a sound record by providing a Hawai`i Island focused perspective.
Is HIEC making an attempt to buy Hawaiian Electric Light Company? It’s important to note that HELCO is not for sale at this time. So no, HIEC is not submitting an offer to purchase HELCO. HIEC is positioning itself as a possible option worthy of consideration to take Hawai`i Island in a different energy direction, depending on the course of the proceedings.
Would a co-op lead to lower energy bills on the Big Island? HIEC believes that a case can be made that there would be lower energy costs to the consumer over time through tax exempt status, lower cost of capital and no shareholder profits, greater efforts to develop less expensive island-based power sources, promotion of education, markedly improved energy efficiency and the accelerated adoption of appropriate advanced technologies.
What’s the position of HIEC regarding geothermal energy, an interisland power cable from the Big Island to the other islands, and this or that particular or specific issue on the Big Island? The residents and communities of the Big Island, through an elected board of directors, would decide what choices and directions to take as far as energy sources and policies under the co-op.
What would make HIEC different from a standard electric utility co-op? The cooperative would have a more diversified focus compared to a standard electric utility by focusing on greater overall energy independence, higher renewable energy generation and enhanced sustainability through a comprehensive and integrated approach to all energy-consuming sectors on the island.

Has HIEC been working with Kaua`i Island Utility Cooperative? HIEC has been in contact with KIUC and they have been supportive. In the event that HIEC is successful in establishing an energy co-op, it is likely that synergies would exist between the two islands that would enable both to benefit by working together in certain areas.

Sen. Brian Schatz

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GIVING FEDERAL AGENCIES GREATER ability to reduce energy use and save taxpayer dollars is the subject of bipartisan legislation that Sen. Brian Schatz and three others, one Democrat and two Republicans, have introduced. The Utility Energy Service Contracts Improvement Act of 2015 would allow federal agencies to enter into long-term contracts with utilities for energy-saving services, giving agencies more options to conserve energy and reduce costs.
The act clarifies an existing law that allows federal agencies to enter into utility energy service contracts of up to 25 years, provided certain conditions are met.
“Renewable energy projects, long-term energy security projects and large-scale energy conservation measures often are simply not cost-effective with a 10-year contract period,” Schatz said. “To date, federal agencies have used UESCs to invest approximately $2.7 billion in their facilities, however a much greater potential exists.
“As the largest consumer of energy in the country, the federal government needs to do everything it can to save energy and taxpayer dollars. Our bipartisan legislation would expand opportunities to invest in energy efficiency and clean energy projects while saving money. I look forward to working with Sens. Lamar Alexander, Dan Coats, and Chris Coons to make this practical solution law.”
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From Mauna Kea, snowcapped Mauna Loa looms in the background.
Photo from NASA Infrared Telescope Facility

KA`U HAS BEEN CLEAR AND COLD the past few days, but not nearly as cold as summits of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, where snow continues to blanket the ground.

Last week, the National Weather Service placed both mountains under a blizzard warning. Meteorologists said as much as eight inches of snow could fall at 11,000 feet elevation. Strong winds with gusts of 85 miles per hour were also possible, according to weather.com meteorologists.
The weather delayed construction preparations for the high-powered, deep space Thirty Meter Telescope near the summit of Mauna Kea because conditions shut down the access road.
The road is still closed to public due to heavy accumulations of snow and ice in spots. The road crew is working for the seventh day in a row, and it is unlikely that the road will open today, according to the Mauna Kea Weather Center website, mkwc.ifa.hawaii.edu.
Images of the summits, including current photos and daily animation, are available at irtfweb.ifa.hawaii.edu and esrl.noaa.gov/gmd/obop/mlo.
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KA`U RURAL HEALTH COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. invites the community to its 18th annual Ka`u Rural Health Conference Friday, March 27 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pahala Community Center. The topic is Rural Health at Work in Our Communities Focusing on Health, Education, Resource opportunities and Economic Sustainability.

Those interested in health resource information, job opportunities, workforce development, employment and training, distance learning, enrollment and admissions to the University of Hawai`i, Hawai`i Community College, Allied Health & Practical Nursing Program and the Office of Continuing Education & Training are encouraged to attend.
KRHCAI will provide its annual report and elect its Board of Directors.
Required registration is due tomorrow. Call 928-0101 or see krhcai.com. Lunches and refreshments are provided with registration.
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REGISTRATION IS DUE TOMORROW to participate in a Forest Restoration Project sponsored by Friends of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. On Friday, March 20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, volunteers plant native seedling trees in a fenced enclosure where plants will be protected from grazing animals.

Email forest@fhvnp.org or call 352-1402.

THE NEW KA`U ALOHA FORUM IS HOSTING its second event this year a week from today on Sunday, March 22. Featuring Keoki Kahumoku and the Aloha Bluegrass Band, it will be held at Na`alehu Methodist Church with pupus at 5 p.m. Program begins at 6:15 p.m.
All proceeds are being donated to the Center for Hawaiian Music Studies. Suggested donation for tickets is $20, and seating is limited. One lucky ticket will win a brand new `ukulele.
Make checks payable to Center for Hawaiian Music Studies and mail to Woodley White at PO Box 44, Na`alehu, 96772 or RSVP to Woodley@easystreet.net or 854-9483.
Tickets are also available at Ka`u Realty in Na`alehu and Pahala Plantation Cottage Office in the Edmund C. Olson Trust Building.

KA`U COFFEE GROWERS AND PROCESSORS are invited to meetings about new coffee shipping permit conditions. Hawai`i Department of Agriculture offers two opportunities to participate. The first is in Hilo tomorrow at 10 a.m. at HDOA Plant Quarantine Office,16 East Lanikaula Street. The second takes place on Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. at Kona Cooperative Extension Service Conference Room, 79-7381 Mamalahoa Hwy in Kealakekua.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf.

Miss Ka`u Coffee contestants Maria Miranda, Jennifer Tabios and Joyce Ibasan, joined by Miss Peaberry contestant Jazmyn Navarro,
visit Ka`u Coffee Mill. Miss Ka`u Coffee candidate Louise Vivien Santos, not shown. The pageant is Sunday, April 26
at Pahala Community Center. Photo by Julia Neal

MOVING UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI`I’S COLLEGE of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources from Manoa to Hilo is the subject of a resolution introduced at the state Legislature by Ka`u’s Rep. Richard Creagan, a physician.

Creagan’s idea is to move the Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy from Hilo to Kakaako to integrate with the John A. Burns School of Medicine and the university’s struggling Cancer Center. UH-CTAHR would take over the building that currently houses the pharmacy program.

Ka`u state Rep. Richard Creagan

“It makes total sense,” Creagan said at Saturday’s meeting of Hawai`i Farmers Union United. “We have the land and small farmers.” He said he has talked to several other legislators about the idea but has yet to discuss it with UH officials. HFUU members at the meeting expressed interest in the suggestion.
HR 100 lists several reasons for moving CTAHR to the Big Island:

It would enhance the ability of the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resource Management at the Hilo campus to better fulfill its goal of supporting agriculture on the Big Island and improving food security.
This transition could support and enhance undergraduate agricultural education and facilitate the development of graduate degree programs in various aspects of agriculture at the Hilo campus.
Graduates of the enhanced Hilo campus could help make the Big Island a better source of agricultural productivity and food security.
The Big Island has a long tradition of agriculture and a larger land mass than all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined, and would better support and improve agricultural research.

Regarding moving the College of Pharmacy from Hilo to O`ahu, the resolution says the college would be best located adjacent to the John A. Burns School of Medicine in Kaka`ako, which would enhance the function of both institutions and result in better student training and in better patient care.

The university’s Cancer Center and some of its facilities could be repurposed and reinvigorated by aligning them with the College of Pharmacy, thereby providing enhanced cancer treatment options to the people of the state.
It also states that having the pharmacy school aligned with the medical school would enhance research and sharing of clinical skills and team-based practice activities.

“Strengthening of the Kaka`ako campus would be a game-changer in Hawai`i and pay many dividends by advancing the study of health sciences and strengthening the economic base of the Kaka`ako campus,” according to the resolution.

Lava flow areas near Pahoa remain inactive.
Map from Hawai`i County Civil Defense

The full resolution and the opportunity to provide testimony are available at capitol.hawaii.gov.
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THE LAVA FLOW FIELD NEAR PAHOA remains inactive, according to reports from Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Breakouts continue in at least three areas northeast of Pu`u `O`o. The breakout that started on the northern flank of Pu`u `O`o is spreading out at the northeastern base of the cone, and the one near Kahauale`a has reached the forest at the edge of the flow field northeast of Pu`u `O`o. A third breakout, active about three to four miles northeast of Pu`u `O`o, appears to be comparatively small.

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CONGRESSWOMAN TULSI GABBARD JOINED a bipartisan panel called Millennials: The Unstoppable Force at the 2015 South by Southwest Interactive Festival to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities that face the Millennial generation in America.
The panel focused the conversation on pressing issues facing young Americans, including Internet freedom, jobs, debt, healthcare and criminal justice reform. The event takes place in Austin, Texas.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard discusses challenges and opportunities facing
the Millenial generation. Photo from Office of Rep. Gabbard

“Too often, political bickering in Washington overshadows the issues that this generation of Americans are concerned about,” Gabbard said. “Millennials care less about party labels and blind partisanship, and care more about getting things done. Like so many people, of all generations, I’m working toward finding creative solutions to the challenges that face our country and finding strong partners to work with to get the job done. That must include more open dialogue and bipartisan collaboration in Congress that prioritizes results over rhetoric, and engaging with leaders and innovators who are finding solutions every day in our communities and in the private sector.”
There are 90 million Americans who make up the Millennial generation, and they face a set of challenges related to student debt, health care and employment that are unique to their generation. Generally considered a tech-savvy, highly educated and engaged group, there are opportunities for Millennials to be game-changers in the realm of business, politics and public service, Gabbard said.
Before attending the SXSW panel, Gabbard met with members of The Bunker, a program built by veteran entrepreneurs for veteran entrepreneurs. The Bunker targets existing veteran-owned tech startups and aspiring entrepreneurs to come, create and conquer the business world through their ideas, hard work and strategy. They invite early-stage companies to apply to join The Bunker and provide space for six months, access to great talent, an exclusive network of fellow entrepreneurs, mentorship and professional development and access to capital. The Bunker also invites aspiring entrepreneurs to apply to become Entrepreneurs in Residence at The Bunker, and intern at one of our portfolio companies.

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KA`U COFFEE AND MISS PEABERRY CONTESTANTS are busy learning about the local coffee industry. They recently visited Ka`u Coffee Mill to see the roasting equipment and coffee drying facility. They also meet each week to practice and prepare for their time on stage Sunday, April 26 at Pahala Community Center. Tickets will soon be available for the pageant from the candidates and their families. Scholarship funding can be donated by calling 928-9811.

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REQUIRED REGISTRATION IS DUE TODAY to attend Ka`u Rural Health Community Association’s 18th annual Ka`u Rural Health Conference Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pahala Community Center. The topic is Rural Health at Work in Our Communities Focusing on Health, Education, Resource opportunities and Economic Sustainability.
Call 928-0101 or see krhcai.com. Lunches and refreshments are provided with registration.

FHVNP volunteers plant native seedlings.
Photo by Carol Johnson

TODAY IS THE LAST DAY to sign up for Friends of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park’s Forest Restoration Project on Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Volunteers plant native seedling trees in a fenced enclosure where plants will be protected from grazing animals.

Email forest@fhvnp.org or call 352-1402.

KA`U COFFEE GROWERS AND PROCESSORS are invited to learn about new coffee shipping permit conditions tomorrow at 12:30 p.m. at Kona Cooperative Extension Service Conference Room, 79-7381 Mamalahoa Hwy in Kealakekua.

KILAUEA MILITARY CAMP’S CRATER RIM CAFÉ in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park offers a St. Patrick’s Day Buffet tomorrow from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Lava Lounge presents the Whirlijigs Irish Dance Troupe and music from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356

AN EVENING OF HULA AND HAWAIIAN MUSIC takes place Wednesday from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Featuring Stan Kaina, Leo Nahenahe o Pohai Kealoha and dancers from Kumu Hula Ab Valencia’s Halau Hula Kalehuaki`eki`eika`iu. Free; park entrance fees apply.

KA`U FARM BUREAU MEETS TWO WEEKS FROM TODAY on March 30 at 6 p.m. at Pahala Community Center. Email Ralph Gaston ralph@rustyshawaiian.com for more information.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

Stan Kaina and friends present an evening of hula and Hawaiian music tomorrow at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Photo from NPS

KA`U’S SEN. JOSH GREEN TOLD Dan Nakaso, of Honolulu Star-Advertiser, that he received more than 1,000 phone calls, texts and emails last weekend in opposition to Gov. David Ige’s choice of Carleton Ching to head the state Department of Land & Natural Resources.

Sen. Josh Green

“Only one individual, a conservative from Kona, asked me to support the nominee,” Green said. “I’m very fond of Gov. Ige, but this threatens to shatter the public trust in his decision-making by putting a lobbyist developer as the head of DLNR. That is why I hope against hope that he’ll find a different position for this gentleman.”
According to Nakaso, the Senate will not let a vote occur on the nomination until approval is assured. “They’re counting the votes right now,” political analyst and MidWeek columnist Dan Boylan told him. “You bet there’s strong-arming going on. I’m not sure Ching would go forward if they weren’t pretty certain they had the votes.”

Boylan said, “David appointed this guy. He will not sell him out for political capital. He’ll stick with the guy and go down with the guy if need be. David’s boring. He’s got no charisma. But he does believe in heart, and he believes in people being good people. Somewhere along the line he decided that Carleton Ching is a good guy.”
A vote is expected later this week.
See staradvertiser.com.

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Current seismic activity in the area of the great crack is similar
to past earthquake swarms. Map from HVO

SIX EARTHQUAKES HAVE OCCURRED in the past two days in the vicinity of the Great Crack, approximately six miles northeast of Pahala on the makai side of Hwy 11 toward Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that seismicity levels in the area of Kilauea’s Southwest Rift Zone are similar to past swarms in the same location.

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HAWAI`I DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE has released a Request for Proposals for its Specialty Crop Block Grant Program for fiscal year 2015. Total funding available is approximately $350,000, with awards ranging from $10,000 to $40,000. The 24-month project period begins on or before Jan. 1, 2016 and continues to Dec. 30, 2017. Matching funds are not required but are calculated into scoring criteria.
Preference will be given to projects that increase production and/or consumption of specialty crops, foster development of fledgling crops, support organic programs for Hawai`i specialty crop farmers and include priority categories.
The deadline is May 1. A link to RFP is at http://spo3.hawaii.gov/notices/notices/rfp-15-01-add/getfile?filename=rfp_scbgp-fb_fy-2015_hi.pdf.
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IN RESPONSE TO DIFFICULTIES encountered by citizens and media seeking public records, the Grassroot Institute is launching OpenHawaii.org, a site dedicated to providing access to hard-to-obtain government data for the purpose of holding government accountable.

At the roll-out of the website, Grassroot President Kelii Akina said, “While Hawai`i has fine sunshine laws, government agencies often make it hard for the public to get the information they need. OpenHawaii.org will now make it possible for citizens to hold government accountable by seeing exactly how tax dollars are being spent. Grassroot Institute is pleased to offer this as an independent public service to fulfill our role as a watchdog and educational resource.”
While the website will eventually make available records from any government department, its premiere will feature county and state salary and overtime records, as well as retirement, health insurance, budgetary and other data.
Records show that police and fire departments spend the most on overtime across the state as well as on pensions and benefits.
“This data is critical to understanding the crisis in pension costs and unfunded liabilities currently faced by the state,” Akina said.
In the future, OpenHawai.org will include additional government data including budgetary information, sunshine meeting information, department audits and more salary, overtime and pension information.
See new.grassrootinstitute.org and openhawaii.org.
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U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard meets with officials of the Kurdistan Regional Government.
Photo from Office of Rep. Gabbard

CONGRESSWOMAN TULSI GABBARD MET with the President of the Kurdistan Regional Government High Council of Women’s Affairs and Director General and discussed the importance of supporting and aiding the peshmerga as an ally against Islamic extremist terrorists, particularly ISIS.

Ms. Pakshan Zangana is a Kurdish politician who serves as the President of the High Council of Women’s Affairs in the Kurdish Regional Government – Iraq. Previously, she was head of the Women’s Committee in Kurdistan Parliament and a member of the Women’s League’s secretariat. In 2005, she was part of the Kurdish List delegation to support the writing of Iraq’s Constitution. Zangana was born in Suleimaniyah. She joined the Peshmerga in 1980s. She later earned a degree in physics before going on to get her master’s in social science.  
Before joining the KRG, Ms. Florin Gorgis, now Director General of the KRG High Council of Women Affairs, worked for Andorra International, Newroz Telecom and Ishtar Broadcasting Corporation. She has also worked for UNICEF and participated in numerous UN workshops and training programs. A native Assyrian Christian speaker, she also speaks Kurdish, English, Arabic and French. Born in Diana, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, she studied English at the University of Salahaddin and completed an executive program at the Maastricht School of Management in 2012 in the Netherlands.
“It was an honor to hear from these brave women who are fighting for their lives, their families and their freedom against ISIS,” Gabbard said. “These women are resilient and courageous and are working on the front lines to keep their home safe and secure. The United States must take action and become a true partner by providing the necessary military aid directly to the Kurdish peshmerga.”
The KRG of Iraq’s High Council on Women’s Affairs was established in 2009 by the KRG Council of Ministers. The Prime Minister heads the Council, which includes six Ministries: Interior, Finance, Justice, Culture & Youth, Labor & Social Affairs and Education. The High Council on Women’s Affairs has been particularly active in light of the deteriorating security situation in Iraq and Syria with the rise of violent extremism such as ISIS, where many thousands of women have been subjected to persecution, violence, slavery and extortion.  

Zangana and Gorgis also attended the 59th session of the Commission on the Status of Women at United Nations Headquarters in New York.
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KA`U BOYS VARSITY VOLLEYBALL TEAM’S record is now 2-1, following a loss to Hilo yesterday. Scores were 23-25, 12-25 and 11-25. JV also lost, 0-2. Ka`u volleyball fans can participate when Ka`u hosts Kohala tomorrow at 6 p.m.

KILAUEA MILITARY CAMP’S CRATER RIM CAFÉ in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park offers a St. Patrick’s Day Buffet today from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Lava Lounge presents the Whirlijigs Irish Dance Troupe and music from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356

KA`U RESIDENTS CAN PARTICIPATE in Hawai`i County Council’s meeting tomorrow at 9 a.m. at West Hawai`i Civic Center in Kona. Videoconferencing is available at Ocean View Community Center. The meeting is also live-streamed at hawaiicounty.gov. Click on Council Meetings.

Vendor spaces are available for next month's fundraiser bazaar.
Photo from Debbie Wong Yuen

AN EVENING OF HULA AND HAWAIIAN MUSIC takes place tomorrow from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. The evening features Stan Kaina, Leo Nahenahe o Pohai Kealoha and dancers from Kumu Hula Ab Valencia’s Halau Hula Kalehuaki`eki`eika`iu. Free; park entrance fees apply.

KAUAHA`AO CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH in Wai`ohinu holds a fundraising bazaar on Saturday, April 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and invites individuals, school and sports groups to be vendors at the flea market. The Church is located at the corner of Hwy 11, Kama`oa Road and Pinao Street, just above the Wong Yuen Store and Gas Station.
The charge for a vendor booth is $10 for a 10’x10’ space. Vendors need to bring their own tables, chairs, tents and, if power is needed, a generator. Vendors can sell anything except hot food and plate lunches.
For more information and to reserve a space, call Walter Wong Yuen in the evening at 928-8039.
The church will be selling laulau plate lunches, baked goods and more.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

Ranches and wind farms are eligible to take part in the Ka`u Enterprise Zone. Photo by Peter Anderson

KA`U ENTERPRISE ZONE STATE TAX BENEFITS are available to more small farms and manufacturers, not just the larger companies, according to Jane Horike, of the county Department of Research & Development. Companies that have benefited from state tax savings in Ka`u in recent years include Royal Hawaiian Orchards and its predecessor ML Macadamia, which farms thousands of acres of macadamia and does some of its processing locally. Olson Trust, with its Ka`u Farm & Management, Ka`u Coffee Mill and coffee farm, as well as thousands of acres in macadamia and ranching, has also applied for state tax relief, as has Tawhiri Power windmill farm, Horike said.

Smaller family farms and ranches – Rusty’s 100 Percent Ka`u Coffee, Kapapala Ranch and Paradise Meadows – are also beneficiaries of the Ka`u Enterprise Zone, Horike said. Horike said that even the smallest family business can apply.
The purpose is to give state tax reductions to businesses to encourage them to hire more employees, even family workers, and grow their companies, said Horike. She gave some examples. A company may reduce state income taxes (on its profits) by 80 percent the first year, the tax break going down 10 percent each year until the deduction reaches and remains at 20 percent. There is also tax relief against the cost of unemployment insurance. The company may reduce state income taxes by 80 percent of the unemployment insurance premiums for the first year, with a 10 percent reduction during each subsequent year. Another benefit is that the qualifying company is exempt from the .5 percent wholesale state general excise tax.

Ka`u small business owners are encouraged to take advantage of Ka`u Enterprise
Zone benefits before May 1. Map from Hawai`i County

According to Horike, a Hawai`i County benefit is that eligible businesses get a three-year exemption from any increase in state property taxes resulting from new construction by an Enterprise Zone business at Enterprise Zone sites.

Another state benefit is that licensed contractors and sub-contractors are exempt from GET on revenue from construction done at the Enterprise Zone site of any business enrolled in the program, Horike said.
To qualify for Ka`u Enterprise Zone tax benefits, a new company must increase employment by 10 percent the first year and maintain its level of employees. For agriculture, the company can increase and maintain employment or increase gross sales two percent a year. Existing businesses getting into the program must increase employees by 10 percent the first year, maintain the employment the second and third year. and increase employment 15 percent during the span of the fourth through seventh years.
Horike noted that the Ka`u Enterprise Zone does not apply to services, hospitality or retail activities. Manufacturing, agriculture production and processing and wholesale distribution qualify, along with wind energy.
The Ka`u Enterprise Zone expires May 1, and a proposed new map has been drawn by the county to designate the new area where benefits would apply. The new map takes out some conservation areas in the mauka lands between Pahala and Na`alehu and mauka toward Volcano and adds on some territory makai of Hwy 11 between Pahala and Volcano. The Ka`u Enterprise Zone has included and would include the entire Ka`u Coast. Horike said that the Enterprise Zone does not override any county zoning or state land use designations and does not supersede building regulations.
The maps were the subject of discussion at the County Council Governmental Relations & Economic Development Committee’s meeting yesterday. Committee members focused on proposed expansion of enterprise zones in West Hawai`i, North Hilo, Hamakua and around Mauna Kea, where, according to Horike, farmers and ranchers aren’t able to take advantage of the program since they aren’t in Enterprise Zones.
To apply, no matter how small, business owners can call Horike at 961-8496. She said it is important to apply before May 1.
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Sustainability of Ka`u Hospital and other state-operated health facilities is one
of Gov. David Ige's goals. Photo by Julia Neal

MAKING SURE HAWAI`I HEALTH SYSTEM CORP. is sustainable is Hawai`i Island’s biggest issue, Gov. David Ige told Chris D’Angelo, of Hawai`i Tribune-Herald. HHSC operates the state’s safety net hospitals, including Ka`u Hospital, and depends on state subsidies to remain open. Ige said those subsidies have grown from about $80 million to more than $160 million. “Clearly, that growth is just not sustainable over the long haul,” he said. “So it’s really looking at what actions we need to take to ensure that the Hawai`i Health Systems Corporation can continue to provide needed services to our communities … here on the Big Island.”

Ige also discussed other Big Island issues with D’Angelo.
Regarding invasive species, Ige told D’Angelo, “We know the ag inspectors are kind of the first line of defense, but it really is about educating the community, making them aware of things that they can do to help us identify invasive species.”
According to Ige, labeling of food containing genetically modified organisms is a federal responsibility. He said he supports the Food and Drug Administration including and improving labeling requirements. “I think the challenge for us here in Hawai`i is our market is small, and we import, you know, 90 percent of the food that we eat,” he said. He pointed out the “significant costs” and “big challenge of enforcement” associated with a state labeling law.

Regarding Hawai`i County’s law banning most GMO crops, Ige said he thinks farmers should be able to choose what crops they want to grow and how they want to grow them. “It’s a big enough challenge for a farmer to be economically viable today, and I really believe that statewide arbitrary legislative restrictions become … a significant burden,” he said. “I think we need to be proactive and look at doing a better job of planning agricultural uses of lands and try to group farmers that want to be organic and non-GMO together so the risks and threat of drift and cross-pollination and contamination can be minimized.”
Ensuring that the proposed sale of Hawaiian Electric Co. to NextEra Energy is in the best interest of the people of Hawai`i is another of Ige’s concerns. He said he has asked the Public Utilities Commission to look at the proposal from the broadest perspective possible, according to D’Angelo.
See hawaiitribune-herald.com.
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HISTORIC PRESERVATION OF HOMES is the topic of a bill unanimously passed by the state Senate and scheduled to be considered by the House Of Representatives on Friday.

SB 877 amends the definition of historic property to require that 50-year-old privately owned single-family residences be considered historic properties only if the property is listed or eligible for listing on the Hawai`i Register of Historic Places or is located in a historic district. It would requires the state Historic Preservation Division of the Department of Land & Natural Resources to conduct a survey on properties eligible for listing on the register and to provide owners of historic property with notice of the property’s likely eligibility.
Ka`u residents can track the bill, read testimony and provide testimony at capitol.hawaii.gov.
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BOYS & GIRLS CLUB of the Big Island holds its third annual Youth of the Year Banquet & Awards Ceremony Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Hilo Hawaiian Hotel. The theme is Inspiring Youth, and participants can dress as what they wanted to be when they were young.
To purchase tickets and for more information, contact Gail Hamasu at gail@bgcbi.org or 961-5536.

STAN KAINA, LEO NAHENAHE O POHAI KEALOHA and dancers from Kumu Hula Ab Valencia’s Halau Hula Kalehuaki`eki`eika`iu present an evening of hula and Hawaiian music today from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Free; park entrance fees apply.

TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE for the Piligrass Concert Sunday. Featuring Keoki Kahumoku and the Aloha Bluegrass Band, it will be held at Na`alehu Methodist Church with pupus at 5 p.m. Program begins at 6:15 p.m.
All proceeds are being donated to the Center for Hawaiian Music Studies. Suggested donation for tickets is $20, and seating is limited. One lucky ticket will win a brand new `ukulele.
Make checks payable to Center for Hawaiian Music Studies and mail to Woodley White at PO Box 44, Na`alehu, 96772 or RSVP to Woodley@easystreet.net or 854-9483.
Tickets are also available at Ka`u Realty in Na`alehu and Pahala Plantation Cottage Office in the Edmund C. Olson Trust Building.

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

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf. and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

Hawai`i Forest & Trail is partnering with Edmund C. Olson Trust to increase eco-tours into Ka`u. Photos from Hawai`i Forest & Trail

GOV. DAVID IGE YESTERDAY WITHDREW his nomination of Carleton Ching as head of the Department of Land & Natural Resources when it became apparent that there were not enough votes in the Senate to approve his choice.

Gov. David Ige

During the nomination process, Ching was on paid leave as Vice President, Community and Government Relations, for developer Castle & Cooke Hawai`i. At Castle & Cooke, he supports the organization’s real estate, agricultural and renewable energy initiatives. He has served on boards of the Building Industry Association and the Land Use Research Foundation, a nonprofit organization that promotes interests of the development industry.
Almost one month ago, Ka`u’s State Sen. Josh Green, who serves as Senate majority leader, asked Ige to withdraw the nomination.
“After meeting with Carleton Ching to discuss his nomination, I have determined that Mr. Ching is the wrong choice for Director of DLNR,” Green said at the time. “Although he is personally likable, he does not have the experience, background or expertise to lead this department. He simply is not qualified for the job.”
Ka`u’s Sen. Russell Ruderman was one of five members of the seven-member Committee on Water & Land who one week ago recommended that the Senate not consent to the nomination. “The nominee’s career track has been the polar opposite of DLNR’s mission,” Ruderman said. “No nominee will know everything, but would we hire a tax director with no tax experience or an Attorney General with no law experience? Of course not. But this nominee has no experience toward the mission; a huge disqualification. To say that such subject matter experience is not necessary shows a surprising lack of respect to those who care so much. Management experience in no way compensates for subject matter experience.”
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Ka`u Coffee farms are stops on Hawai`i Forest & Trail tours.

HAWAI`I FOREST & TRAIL has launched a partnership with the Edmund C. Olson Trust that will bring more eco-tours into the backcountry of Ka`u. The two entities have partnered on a new base in Hilo to complement Hawai`i Forest & Trail’s headquarters in Kona. Hawai`i Forest & Trail will help propel the evolution of Hilo Bay Tours, which Olson Trust acquired several years ago, said Rob Pacheco, founder of Hawai`i Forest & Trail.

At a launch party held Tuesday night at Wainaku Executive Center in Hilo, Hawai`i Forest & Trail marketing director Jason Cohn talked about the increasing number of visitors who are seeking to immerse themselves in a respectful way into the nature and culture of Hawai`i.
Hawai`i Forest & Tail employs four-wheel-drive vans and six-wheel, military-style Pinzgauers to visit forested areas on ranches and farms as well as appropriate coastal settings, Cohn said. Tours that include Ka`u have Ka`u Coffee Mill, macadamia orchards and Punalu`u on the agenda, as well as Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.
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Honu`apo Overlook is one of many photos in a pdf guide of Ka`u Scenic Byway
available on Hawai`i Scenic Byways' website.

KA`U SCENIC BYWAY COMMITTEE reported that Hawai`i County Department of Parks and Recreation has approved panels for an informational kiosk at Na`alehu Park. Once the final signs are ready, they will be delivered to Parks and Recreation, who will erect them. Proofs should be available for approval within two to three weeks. An unveiling ceremony will be announced once the kiosk is complete.

A pdf guide to Ka`u Scenic Byway has been posted on the state byway website, hawaiiscenicbyways.org, with photos and commentary on each of the primary sites and additional notes on other locations.
To comment on or like this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

THE U.S. SENATE HAS NAMED Sen. Mazie Hirono Vice Chair of the U.S.-China Interparliamentary Group – the U.S. Senate’s official dialogue mechanism with the National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China. The group serves as a forum for discussion of matters of mutual interest and maintaining a healthy dialogue with legislative leaders of both countries.

Sen. Mazie Hirono

“Hawai`i is the gateway to the Pacific, and dialogue with China is ever more critical to enhancing our economic, diplomatic and security ties with the Asia-Pacific region,” Hirono said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues and holding frank discussions on a wide range of issues important to our bilateral relations including regional security, energy, tourism and expanding small business opportunities.”
Twelve U.S. senators make up the group, which holds annual conferences with senior Chinese parliamentary leaders. In 2004, group was started by Sens. Daniel K. Inouye and Ted Stevens, who served as first Vice Chair and Chair, respectively.
The appointment to serve on the group builds on Hirono’s work on U.S.-China relations as Co-Chair of the Senate U.S. China Working Group and her efforts to implement visa reforms that would make it easier for Chinese tourists and students to visit and study in America. Hirono has long championed the extension of visitor visas between the U.S. and China, which was officially changed from one to ten years of maximum validity under a bilateral agreement reached in November 2014.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard

TODAY, ON THE 12TH ANNIVERSARY of the Iraq War, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard and Pennsylvania’s Republican Rep. Scott Perry launched the Congressional Post-9/11 Veterans Caucus. The caucus will include a bipartisan group of representatives who have served in the military after 9/11 and who are dedicated to issues related to our newest generation of veterans. The caucus’ legislative agenda will focus on the 2.8 million veterans who have served and deployed since 9/11 and provide a forum for this new generation of veterans to voice their concerns and ideas.

“Taking care of our brothers and sisters in uniform who have selflessly served our country must be a priority for Congress,” Gabbard said. “The bond that exists between those of us who have served spans across all generations. As members of Congress who share the experience of this newest generation of veterans, we have the privilege of serving as their voice, working toward ensuring that their unique concerns are addressed and that their ideas and potential are realized. I am pleased to join my friend and fellow veteran Congressman Scott Perry in bringing our newest generation of veterans into focus, and the challenges they face as they come home and transition back into civilian life. “This Congress recently passed bipartisan legislation, the Clay Hunt SAV Act, that will help our returning service members. This is a first step toward the great work that still remains to empower, care for and serve those who have so selflessly served our nation.”
Gabbard and Perry, both veterans of the Iraq war, will serve as co-chairs of the caucus.
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Three moons of Jupiter and two shadows from NASA Hubble Space Telescope.
From lower left are Europa and its shadow, Callisto and its shadow and Io.

ASTRONOMER LEW COOK DISCUSSES JUPITER’S moons in the current issue of Stars Over Ka`u.

“The orbits of Jupiter’s larger moons are in the same plane as Jupiter’s orbit around the sun, so we frequently see the shadows of the moons on the face of Jupiter,” Cook says. “The moons are also seen crossing in front of Jupiter’s multi-colored cloud bands. Last month, we were treated to three shadows at once. The moons Io, Europa and Callisto crossed over Jupiter’s cloud bands behind the shadows of the respective moons. During the event, the Hubble space telescope took several pictures, one of which is shown here.
“The moon Io has many volcanoes, several of which are erupting at the same time. Contrary to the Earth, where radioactivity is the predominant source of heat, the main energy source at Io comes from tidal action. Being the innermost moon of Jupiter’s four large moons, it feels strongly the tidal effects of Jupiter as it rotates and revolves. Tidal forces change Io’s shape by as much as 300 feet. This squeezing one way and the other heats the interior of Io so much that it causes volcanoes to erupt. Tides influence not only water on earth, but also the shape of our planet, but not by much, less than one foot.”
See kaucalendar.com for more.
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KA`U HIGH BOYS VARSITY volleyball team got back on track with a win over Kohala yesterday. Scores in the three-game match were 25-20, 30, 28 and 25-22.

The boys travel to Kealakehe tomorrow, with the match beginning at 6 p.m.
To comment on or like this story, go to facebook.com/kaucalendar.

TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE for Boys & Girls Club of the Big Island’s third annual Youth of the Year Banquet & Awards Ceremony tomorrow from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Hilo Hawaiian Hotel. The theme is Inspiring Youth, and participants can dress as what they wanted to be when they were young.
To purchase tickets and for more information, contact Gail Hamasu at gail@bgcbi.org or 961-5536.

HALAU KALEHUAKI`EKI`EIKA`IU HOLDS A GARAGE SALE Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pukeawe Circle in Volcano Golf Course Subdivision. There will be all kinds of bargains, treasures, knick-knacks, clothing, books, household items, furniture, plants and many other items for sale. A bake sale offers hot baked goodies from halau members and Aunty Pua’s Na Mea Ono.

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

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf and
kaucalendar.com/Direectory2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists continue to monitor breakouts near Pu`u `O`o while the lava flow front near Pahoa is inactive. Photo from USGS HVO

BILLS INTRODUCED BY KA`U STATE LEGISLATORS regarding labeling of coffee blends have not advanced in the state Legislature.

A House bill introduced by Ka`u’s Rep. Richard Creagan never received a hearing. HB387 would have required coffee blend labels to disclose regional origins and percent by weight of blended coffees. It also would have prohibited using geographic origins of coffee in labeling or advertising when roasted or instant coffee contains less than 51 percent coffee by weight from that geographic origin.

Rep. Richard Creagan

Sen. Russell Ruderman

Ka`u’s Sen. Russell Ruderman also introduced a coffee-labeling bill. Although it received a hearing, SB594 did not get passed to the House for consideration. While Ruderman’s bill called for coffee blends to contain 80 percent of coffee of origin, the Agriculture Committee, which Ruderman chairs, removed that requirement and called for listing, in descending order of percent by weight, the geographic origin or regional origin of various coffees in the blend.
The bill still did not receive hearings by the Commerce and Consumer Protection and Ways and Means committees.
“In my opinion, I was the only one (on the Agriculture Committee) who has an understanding of the coffee-growing industry,” Ruderman told Bret Yager, of West Hawai`i Today. “I think it’s a matter of lobbyists with financial interests having undue influence over the Legislature.”
According to Yager, Ruderman said, “There is no other region in the world that allows blending of their geographic brand.”
Creagan’s bill stated that “for more than twenty-three years Hawai`i has been the only region in the world that statutorily authorizes the uses of its geographic names, such as ‘Kona,’ ‘Maui’ and ‘Ka`u,’ on labels of its specialty agricultural products and requires that only ten percent of the product originate in the geographic area.
See hawaiitribune-herald.com.
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Sen. Josh Green

KA`U’S STATE SEN. JOSH GREEN shared his thoughts on the nomination process of Carleton Ching with Associated Press writer Cathy Bussewitz. Green, who serves as Senate majority leader, was the first senator to call for Gov. David Ige to withdraw his nomination of Ching to head the Department of Land & Natural Resources. Green is a member of the Senate Chess Club, a group of senators who work together toward shared goals. Ige was a member when he was in the Senate.

“Chess Club has always been big on integrity,” Green told Bussewitz. “That always made it more important that I vote my conscience, which has always been what the Chess Club stood for, and voted for what was best for the state.”
According to the story, Green said he received about 500 calls or emails against Ching for every comment he received in support. “Five hundred in a row? You never let that happen,” Green said. “You have to tell your side of the story. And that’s a lesson he (Ige) probably learned.”
See westhawaiitoday.com.
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USGS HVO scientists take VLF readings to keep track of possible changes
within Kilauea volcano. Photo from USGS HVO

WHILE THE FLOW FRONT NEAR PAHOA is inactive, breakouts continue upslope toward Pu`u `O`o, where lava continues to erupt. Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologists monitor the flow to keep track of any changes that may be occurring within Kilauea Volcano.

They gather fresh lava samples as close to the vent as possible. Once a sample is scooped from a pahoehoe lobe, it is quickly quenched in a bucket of water to stop growth of any crystals and to preserve composition of the liquid lava. Once cooled, the sample is sent first to UH-Hilo for quick analysis of a few components and prepared for a fuller analysis of its chemical components by a lab on the mainland.

After establishing an appropriate location to resume Very Low Frequency studies over the June 27th lava tube, HVO geologists take measurements, sometimes requiring walking through volcanic gases. Measuring VLF field variations across the top of the tube allows HVO scientists to estimate the cross-sectional area of lava and the amount of lava within the tube.
VLF radio waves are transmitted from Lualualei Naval Base on O`ahu and received by a handheld device.
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THE EDUCATION INSTITUTE OF HAWAI`I, an independent think tank, has released results of its 2015 Principals Survey.

The institute’s President and Board Chair Roberta Mayor noted that “survey results indicate that principals are overwhelmingly in favor of Gov. Ige’s school empowerment agenda.” The majority also supports the governor’s plan to increase the percentage of Department of Education funding that is allocated by Weighted Student Formula to 75 percent.

EIH President and Board Chair Roberta Mayor
Photo from Hawai`i DOE

Only one in five principals say the schools are already “empowered” to an appropriate degree.

Seven out of eight think school-level personnel should be allowed to control the means by which statewide standards and policies are achieved.
An even higher percentage of principals (91 percent) think a principal who is not satisfied with support services from the DOE should be able to seek comparable services from a different provider.
According to the institute’s Executive Director Darrel Galera, “Leading research indicates that principals are a key factor for student achievement. Supporting and empowering principals to be instructional leaders must be a priority, if it is ever to happen.”
Only one in five of the principals surveyed thinks the DOE is providing the “system of support” that it is contractually obligated to provide, and the principals who say the DOE leadership treats them like partners are greatly outnumbered by those who say they are sometimes treated like servants.
Only 21 percent think that DOE leadership treats them like a partner.
According to the institute, a climate of fear that was apparent in the 2014 Principals Survey continues to exist. Only two in five principals, or 41 percent, said they can express concern or critique DOE policies and practices without fear of reprisal, retaliation or being unfairly evaluated on their performance evaluations.
Principals express displeasure with how the system is currently being run. While 70 percent think Common Core has been good for their students, less than 18 percent thinks that system leadership has done a good job of implementing it. The percentage of principals who think system leadership has done a good job of implementing the new testing regime is only eight percent.
Three out of four principals think the DOE’s implementation of the new teacher evaluation system has adversely affected morale at their schools.

Regarding confidence levels, only one in three principals has confidence in the superintendent, only one in five has confidence in Assistant Superintendents, and only one in nine has confidence in the Board of Education.

Ray L’Heureux, the institute’s Vice-President and Board Vice-chair, said the institute’s goal is to add some transparency to the public school system, and added, “We also plan to survey teachers, parents and state-level administrators in the near future.”

Principals were required to identify themselves to the institute in order to participate in the survey to ensure that only principals completed the survey and that no one principal completed the survey more than once. Some principals chose not to participate because they did not want anyone to be able to link them to their opinions about the DOE. A majority of principals, 144 out of 256, trusted the institute’s promise that the fact of each individual’s participation and that individual’s opinions would be strictly confidential.
Complete survey results, including the written comments of every survey participants, are available at edthinktankhawaii.org.

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BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF THE BIG ISLAND’S third annual Youth of the Year Banquet & Awards Ceremony is today from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Hilo Hawaiian Hotel. The theme is Inspiring Youth, and participants can dress as what they wanted to be when they were young.

To purchase tickets and for more information, contact Gail Hamasu at gail@bgcbi.org or 961-5536.

HALAU KALEHUAKI`EKI`EIKA`IU holds a garage and bake sale tomorrow from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pukeawe Circle in Volcano Golf Course Subdivision.

HAWAI`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK’S Kahuku Unit offers its guided Palm Trail Hike Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This moderately difficult 2.6-mile loop trail provides one of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. 985-6011 or nps.gov/havo

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

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

Ka`u agricultural producers affected by the Jan. 2-3 storm can get information about the U.S. Department of Agriculture Emergency Conservation Program at Pahala Community Center from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Photo by Julia Neal

KA`U BOYS & GIRLS CLUB STAFF and board member traveled to Hilo last night for the annual Youth of the Year banquet. Mayor Billy Kenoi praised the Boys & Girls Club for giving kids a safe place to be after school each day and a place to make friends and grow their dreams.

The county’s Public Works Department Chief Warren Lee earned the Honoree of the Year award for his efforts after the club fell on hard times, and he took over its management and became board chair. Lee said that when he grew up, he could have benefited from a Boys & Girls Club to help give direction in his life. He said that through his involvement in Boys & Girls Club, he has met kids on this island who told him they might have followed others into a life of drugs, gangs and early death if it had not been for the Boys & Girls Club.

The organization also received a county check for over $40,000 for its new certified kitchen development on its Hilo campus. The mayor joked that he could have brought a giant check for a photo op, but “you can’t cash those big checks.” He handed over a cashable paper check to the Boys & Girls Club.
The Champion for Youth Award was given to the Big Island Table Tennis Association, which volunteers for Boys & Girls Club almost daily and also trains youth in table tennis, with some of the Boys & Girls headed toward championship play.
Youth of the Year is Benjamin Cortez, Jr., who gave a rousing talk about growing up in foster homes and experiencing racial discrimination and bullying until he found a permanent home and the Boys & Girls Club, where he has learned to be of service to others. Runner up Youth of the Year is Tyler Nahinu.
Representing Ka`u were club Director Dolly Kailiawa and board member Julia Neal.
About 55 young people attend Boys & Girls Club in Pahala after school.
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Kilauea Iki was the site of a successful search-and-rescue this week.
Photo from NPS

HAWAI`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK rangers located an 11-year-old boy from Canada and reunited him with his family Tuesday night, March 17.

The boy got lost after leaving Kilauea Iki Trail on the crater floor and attempting to shortcut his way up to the parking lot at Thurston Lava Tube. His parents made it to the parking lot, but when they didn’t find their son waiting for them, the father went back down the trail. He was able to make voice contact with his son, but couldn’t locate him. Another visitor heard the boy yelling for help near Crater Rim Trail between the lava tube and Kilauea Iki parking lots. The visitor found the boy’s mother at Thurston Lava Tube parking lot and called park dispatch to report the missing child.
Five search-and-rescue rangers responded shortly after sunset, and the boy was located off the trail about an hour afterwards with only minor cuts and scrapes. It took another hour for rangers to hike him back out to the trail. He was reunited with his family, who expressed their gratitude to the rangers.
“Park rangers have rescued several hikers who tried to shortcut Kilauea Iki Trail,” Acting Chief Ranger John Broward said. “They end up getting stuck due to earth cracks, cliffs and thick vegetation. This incident fortunately had a happy ending, but it serves as a good reminder to stay on trails. Hikers can be seriously injured or killed, and it puts rescuers at risk as well,” he said.
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Rep. Richard Onishi

KA`U STATE REP. RICHARD ONISHI’S bill to help residents fight little fire ants is dead after moving to the Senate. Committees on Agriculture and Energy and Environment deferred the measure on Thursday.

Onishi told Tom Callis, of Hawai`i Tribune-Herald, that he was disappointed. “The Big Island is where we have the biggest unchecked problem,” he said, adding that the state needs to do more to help Big Island residents combat the ants in areas where infestations already are well established.
“The whole idea was for us to be proactive in helping our residents,” he said. “It’s unfortunate the Senate didn’t see it the same way.”
Ka`u’s Sen. Russell Ruderman, chair of the Agriculture Committee, told Callis the bill had far more opposition than support. He said committee members’ concerns included unknown cost and whether providing coupons for pesticides was feasible. “I’m all for fighting fire ants tooth and nail, but nobody felt like this was the right approach,” he said.
Hawai`i Ant Lab, Big Island Invasive Species Committee and The Nature Conservancy are among groups currently working to eliminate an infestation in Na`alehu.
See hawaiitribune-herald.com.
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THE COMMISSION ON WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT is in the process of updating the statewide Water Resource Protection Plan and is seeking the community’s input on water resource issues of importance.
The purpose of the Water Resource Protection Plan is to establish policies and identify actions needed to ensure long-term protection and sustainability of Hawai`i’s limited ground and surface water resources.
Commission staff has scheduled workshops on Hawai`i Island in Kona on March 24  at West Hawai`i Civic Center  and in Hilo on March 30  at Aupuni Center . Both are from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
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AFTER A REVIEW OF THE GLOBAL STATUS of green sea turtles, NOAA Fisheries and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are proposing to reclassify the species into 11 distinct population segments under the Endangered Species Act. The move would maintain federal protections while providing a more tailored approach for managers to address specific threats facing different populations.

The action follows a 2012 petition by the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs for NOAA Fisheries to identify Hawai`i’s green sea turtle population as a DPS and remove it from listing under the ESA. Although both agencies found that the Central North Pacific green sea turtle population in Hawai`i does constitute a DPS, they also found that, due to its small and narrowly distributed nesting population and threats of climate change and sea-level rise, it warrants continued protection as a threatened species under the ESA.
The agencies are beginning a 90-day public comment period for this proposal to gather new information relevant to the status change. This includes potential critical habitat for the green sea turtle and information that will help ensure that the final determination is based on the best available scientific and commercial information. The deadline for comments is June 22. See http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=NOAA-NMFS-2012-0154, click the “Comment Now!” icon, complete the required fields, and enter or attach your comments.
Submit written comments to  Office of Protected Resources,  NOAA Fisheries ,1315 East-West Highway,  Silver Spring, MD 20910 or  Green Turtle Proposed Listing Rule , U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,  North Florida Ecological Services Office,  7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200,  Jacksonville, FL 32256. 
To learn more about sea turtles, see http://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/pr/species/turtles/.

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KA`U HIGH BOYS VOLLEYBALL TEAMS took a spring break trip to Kealakehe yesterday, but returned empty-handed. Both teams lost in straight sets with junior varsity 0-2, and varsity 0-3.

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DEPARTMENT OF HAWAIIAN HOME LANDS is holding a workshop for nonprofit Native Hawaiian organizations today from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Pahala Community Center. The workshop is designed to help groups organize, set up nonprofits and write grants and reports for funding. Everyone is welcome to learn from the process.

LAWFUL HAWAIIAN GOVERNMENT organization holds a meeting today at Kahuku County Park in Ocean View from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

HAWAI`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK’S Kahuku Unit offers its guided Palm Trail Hike tomorrow from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This moderately difficult 2.6-mile loop trail provides one of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. 985-6011 or nps.gov/havo

USDA holds an Emergency Conservation Program workshop at Pahala
Community Center next week.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE holds an Emergency Conservation Program workshop Wednesday, March 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Pahala Community Center. The purpose is to provide information to agricultural producers affected by the Jan. 2-3 storm. Participants should bring copies of the following to the workshop if applicable and not yet submitted: copy of lease, deed or property tax statement showing control of the farmland; TMKs; and photos of farmland damages. Business entities should bring organizational documents listing members, ownership interest and signatory authority.

For more information, email jason.shitanishi@hi.usda.gov ore call 808-206-0713.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

High-resolution images gathered using equipment on a kite by University of Arizona researchers on Kilauea help them study Mars' landscape. Footprints are visible left of center. Photos from University of Arizona

RESIDENTS OF AN OCEAN VIEW HOME near the intersection of Pineapple Parkway and Hukilau Drive are receiving help from friends and the Red Cross after a fire at the two-story house burnt it to the ground Friday evening, destroying everything in the home.

Martin Mario Molina, one of the residents, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of first-degree arson, according to Bret Yager, of West Hawai`i Today.

Firefighters work on hot spots following a blaze that destroyed a home and its
contents, including a recreational vehicle, in Ocean View. Photo by Daryl Lee

Evan Prestriedge told Yager that that he and two others left the house after an argument with Molina. They turned over two guns that had been in the house to police and were at a restaurant about a half hour away when officers called to inform them about the fire.
Neighbor Michael McCormick told videographer Daryl Lee he was alerted to the blaze when he saw a red glow on an interior wall of his home. When he looked out the window, he saw fire and police personnel already on the scene.
McCormick said a family member had told him the couple was having marital trouble and the arson suspect was afraid of losing the house. According to McCormick, the suspect’s attitude was, “If he couldn’t have it, nobody could.”
See westhawaiitoday.com.
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KILAUEA’S LAVA FLOWS ARE HELPING RESEARCHERS unravel past mysteries that shaped Mars. Scientists of the University of Arizona’s Lunar and Planetary Laboratory have taken to flying kites equipped with equipment to gather images above what they refer to as a “chemical desert” with several geologically very young lava flows, in particular the December 1974 flow, which poured out of the volcano on New Year’s Eve 1974 in a short-lived eruption that is currently accessible by foot. When the researchers compared images of the Martian surface taken by HiRISE camera aboard NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, striking similarities appeared.

A researcher flies a kite equipped to record images
of the December 1974 lava flow from above.

Insights gained from terrain models are used to inform interpretations of images of the surface of Mars.
HiRISE has been examining Mars with six instruments since 2006. Led by the UA, HiRISE stands for the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment and has revealed never-before-seen details of the Martian surface.
“The idea is to understand places we can’t go by analyzing places we can go,” said Christopher Hamilton, principal investigator of the research team. Hamilton studies volcanic surfaces on Mars to understand the thermal history of the red planet – how the planet’s internal processes manifest on the surface.
“We can use geologically young and vegetation-free surface features here on Earth — such as Hawaiian lava flows — as terrestrial analogs that can provide us with insights into processes that shape other planets,” he said. “Instead of just saying, ‘This feature looks like X,’ we try to develop diagnostics that help us recognize the actual processes that led to the formation of a certain feature.”
For example, many features that have been interpreted as channels carved by running water in the red planet’s past are more likely to be the result of a volcanic process that Hamilton describes as a “fill-and-spill” lava emplacement, which developed when lava accumulated in enormous perched ponds that breached like an overtopped dam, giving way to catastrophic floods of lava.
“It is easy to draw conclusions based on our intuition of how water flows,” Hamilton said, “so it is tempting to interpret similar features on Mars in the same way. But in fact these features formed by flowing lava, not water.”
Pointing to the terrain model of the December 1974 flow, Hamilton said, “We see that in certain areas, the surface is broken up into plates and what superficially looks like channels carved by running water. However, these turn out to be not carved at all, but rather are the result of a complex pattern of lava movements within the flow.”
Hamilton explained that liquid lava first filled the area between the cliffs from older lava flows like a big bathtub. When the perched lava pond breached, the lava surged forward, causing plates of cooled lava on the surface to break apart and fresh lava to well up from underneath. As the plates were floating toward the drain, they became crumpled.
The digital terrain models even revealed a bathtub ring formed when lava filled the pool.
“The question that drives us is: How can we assemble this kind of data for Mars landscapes and decide whether a feature is volcanic or fluvial — shaped by water — and allow us to develop a story?" Hamilton said. “A single surface texture doesn’t tell you anything if you can’t see the way in which the building blocks combine, such as the tiles that make up the pattern of a mosaic. The relationships between textures allow you where to look and what to look for.”

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Naliko Kahoali`i Markel is Minister of Interior of The Lawful
Hawaiian Government. Photo from LHG

THE LAWFUL HAWAIIAN GOVERNMENT organization sent six people from Puna to Ocean View’s county Kahuku Park yesterday to discuss The Lawful Hawaiian Government movement and to have lunch with Native Hawaiians. Naliko Kahoali`i Markel made the presentation as Minister of Interior of The Lawful Hawaiian Government. About 30 people attended throughout the afternoon. Seventeen registered to vote in elections for legislators and Minister of Interior of The Lawful Hawaiian Government. Elections take place every four years and will be held at the Game Shack at Hilo’s Prince Kuhio Plaza in September, said voting registrar Hope Alohalani Cermelj.

Another presentation by The Lawful Hawaiian Government will be held on Saturday, April 4 at Miloli`i, also led by Markel. For more information, call Markel at 238-0428.
For more on the movement, see its Hawaiian Kingdom Government website, www.thelawfulhawaiiangovernment.org/home.htm.

SN 1994D, at lower left, is a type 1A supernova in
NGC 4526 galaxy. Photo from Wikipedia

ASTRONOMER LEW COOK DISCUSSES supernovae, stellar explosions, in the current issue of Stars Over Ka`u. “Supernovae are different types, but one type, coming from the spilling of matter onto a white dwarf star from its companion in a binary system (two stars revolving around each other), sets off a tremendous runaway explosion once it reaches the mass limit called the Chandrasekhar limit,” Cook writes. Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, an astrophysicist who developed the limit in 1930 was 19 at the time.
“This limit is 1.4 times the mass of the sun,” according to Cook. “The resultant explosion gives astronomers a ‘standard candle.’ Why is this important? Think about it for a moment: a bright new star appears in a distant galaxy. You can measure (even with your eyes) how bright it is relative to stars nearby (many of which are of known brightness). Judging by its brightness, and knowing that distant stars appear fainter than nearby stars can you determine its distance? Yes! Since all supernovae (of type 1A) are known to be of the same brightness, simply by measuring its apparent brightness, you can calculate the distance to the galaxy it is in. By knowing that distance, you can measure other stars in that galaxy.
“So, what conclusions have been derived? Stars studied so far all behave the same. They all have similar properties as those in our Milky Way galaxy, they all age the same, and they all die similar deaths. The further away a galaxy is, the faster it appears to be moving away from us, like the raisins in a loaf of raisin bread as it rises and bakes. This effect is a fundamental property of the universe, called expansion of the universe.”
See kaucalendar.com.

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Tyson Ryder does an upper block (jodan uke) from a horse
stance (naihanchi) during his successful test for purple
belt rank. Photo from Cliff Field

TYSON RYDER SUCCESSFULLY PASSED his test for purple belt rank in International Karate League’s Pahala Dojo on Friday, March 20. IKL is a traditional Shorin Ryu style founded by Walter Nishioka. Pahala Dojo meets every Tuesday and Friday at Pahala Community Center at 5:30 p.m. New students are welcomed.

THE TOPIC AT THIS WEEK’S AFTER DARK IN THE PARK is Bees In Hawai`i: Trouble in Paradise? Beekeepers James Severtson and Carol Conner cover a brief history of the introduction of bees to the Hawaiian Islands, honeybee biology, bee parasites and Langstroth vs. top bar beehives. Participants can taste tropical blend honeys in three forms: liquid, creamed and in the comb. The program takes place Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. $2 donations support After Dark programs. Park entrance fees apply.

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

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

The topic at tomorrow's After Dark in the Park is Bees in Hawai`i: Trouble in Paradise? Photo from NPS

KA`U MULTICULTURAL SOCIETY PRESIDENT Darlyne Vierra said she believes that Portuguese families from Ka`u would be interested in becoming involved in a planned Portuguese cultural and education center in Hilo. Ka`u residents could offer copies of family photos and documents showing the history of their culture in this district. Portuguese families have had a large influence of on ranching, sugar and coffee heritage of Ka`u, most recently presenting Portuguese dance, song and food at annual Ka`u Plantation Days, scheduled this year for Saturday, Oct. 17. Call Vierra at 640-8740.

Marlene Hapai, addressing the public in Pahala during her 2012 state House
of Representatives candidacy, is working toward creating a Portuguese
cultural and education center. Photo by Ron Johnson

Chris D’Angelo, of Hawai`i Tribune-Herald, reported that years after receiving a donation of one acre by Frank De Luz III, Hawai`i Island Portuaguese Chamber of Commerce is resurrecting plans to build the center. “It’s picked up momentum,” HIPCC First Vice President Marlene Hapai told D’Angelo. “It’s a very rich culture. I think it’s long overdue that we need to share it in Hawai`i.”
Hapai told D’Angelo, “I look at this as a worldwide impact, but also a part special to Hawai`i. It can be something that people come see from all over the world.”
See hawaiitribune-herald.com.
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OVER THE PAST SIX YEARS, THE NUMBER of Hawaiian Homestead Lessees overall has increased 4.5 percent from 9,236 to 9,654, according to Department of Hawaiian Home Lands’ recently released Beneficiaries Study Lessee Report.

Hawaiian Home Lands in Ka`u are at Kama`oa, Pu`ueo,
Wailau and Wai`ohinu.

Even with the change in number of lessees, the demographic composition of Lessees has not changed significantly since the last study. While the median age of lessees has increased from 56 years in 2008 to 62 years, the distribution of ages remains approximately the same. Similarly, the average household size has been at four persons for more than a decade.
The median household income among lessee households has increased significantly since 2008, climbing from $48,731 in 2008 to $59,600 in 2014. Despite this increase in median household income, a notably larger proportion of lessees are currently below the Housing & Urban Development 80 percent of median income guide (58.7 percent) than in 2008 (46.1 percent).
Slightly less than half of all lessees (48 percent) reported the need for one or more types of repair to their current housing unit, which is up from 37 percent in 2008. Among those in need of repair, about half of the units require relatively minor repairs while about 38 percent need more extensive repair work to correct problems with foundations, roofs, walls, plumbing and electrical work. Need for repair is directly related to the unit ages. The need for repair is also directly correlated to lower incomes and lack of financial resources.
The lessee survey classified the issues homestead communities are facing into four types: community quality/maintenance, crime, community organization and community structure. Problems rated as serious by lessees were predominantly related to quality and maintenance issues. Four out of ten lessees rated abandoned cars or trash in yards as a serious problem, while the same number cited lack of places for children to play as an equally serious problem.
Homestead community members typically rate their communities favorably and do not consider moving away. Many hope that future generations continue living on homestead land. Lessees expressed a sense of safety and unity within their homesteads despite issues that need to be addressed.

A firefighter sprays flame retardant on hot spots at the Ocean View home
destroyed by fire Friday. Photo by Daryl Lee

See dhhl.hawaii.gov.
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MARTIN MARIO MOLINA IS FACING charges following a fire that destroyed the Ocean View home where he lived and its contents.
Ka`u police responded to a 6:11 p.m. call Friday and arrived to find a two-story house on Pineapple Parkway partly engulfed in flames. Firefighters were working to extinguish the fire, which was determined to be the result of arson.
Police arrested an occupant, 60-year-old Molina, on suspicion of arson.
At 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 21, detectives charged Molina with first-degree arson and first-degree criminal property damage. His bail was set at $75,000. He remained at the cellblock until his initial court appearance on today. Three other residents had left the scene prior to the blaze beginning, and no one was injured.

Loss was estimated at $270,000.

A gofundme site has been created to help the family, gofundme.com/phl2is.

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THE CURRENT ISSUE OF VOLCANO WATCH discusses Mauna Loa’s signs of stirring from its 31-year-long slumber over the past few months. Its most recent eruption began on March 25, 1984. USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has recorded numerous small earthquakes beneath Mauna Loa’s summit and western flank and has detected slight expansion across Moku`aweoweo, the volcano’s summit caldera – signals that Mauna Loa should not be forgotten!

Lava flows erupt from Mauna Loa's Northeast Rift Zone on March 25, 1984,
the first day of the volcano's most recent eruption. Photo from USGS/HVO

“What can we expect as this great volcano reawakens and builds toward its next eruption?” HVO scientists ask.
“Mauna Loa’s two most recent eruptions, in 1975 and 1984, occurred as HVO expanded and modernized its seismic and geodetic monitoring networks. Examining these past eruptions can give us insight into how Mauna Loa will behave in future eruptions.
“Prior to the 1975 eruption, the length of an Electronic Distance Measurement line spanning Moku`aweoweo lengthened as magma accumulated within the volcano and caused it to inflate. In addition, more than a year before lava erupted in July 1975, HVO recorded a significant increase in earthquakes, with the seismicity concentrated in two distinct regions within the volcano. Earthquakes initially clustered northwest of Mauna Loa’s summit at depths between three to six miles were followed by shallow earthquakes that were concentrated less than three miles beneath the summit. In the months leading to the 1975 eruption, the number of earthquakes dramatically increased, reaching levels of several hundred events per day.
“The sequence of ground deformation and seismicity followed a similar pattern prior to Mauna Loa’s 1984 eruption. Increased numbers of earthquakes were again seen in the two areas where seismicity was concentrated before the 1975 eruption, and EDM measurements across Moku`aweoweo showed extension (inflation) months before the 1984 eruption.
“How do current observations of Mauna Loa compare to the previous two eruptions?
“The recent swelling of the volcano is small compared to that observed in 1975 and 1984. Earthquake activity, while notable, is also modest. In terms of magnitude, recent earthquakes beneath the volcano’s northwest flank have not yet reached levels recorded before the 1975 or 1984 eruptions. Additionally, the number of earthquakes beneath the summit is not yet significant. Overall, we expect more persistent and heightened rates of both ground deformation and seismicity as the volcano nears its next eruption.
“Recent improvements in HVO’s monitoring capabilities enhance our ability to watch for and track changes on Mauna Loa. With upgrades to and expansion of our seismic network and the installation of additional of GPS stations, tiltmeters, gas sensors and webcams, we can better monitor Mauna Loa and other active Hawaiian volcanoes. This, in turn, helps improve our understanding of how these volcanoes work and our ability to forecast eruptions.

Esteve Salmo jumps for
Ka`u High Trojans.

“The take-home message today is two-fold: (1) Mauna Loa is an active volcano, but an eruption is not imminent, and (2) HVO closely monitors Mauna Loa and will immediately inform authorities and the public if significant changes in activity are detected.”
Monthly reports on the status of Mauna Loa are posted at http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov/activity/maunaloastatus.php.
See hvo.wr.usgs.gov.
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KA`U HIGH SCHOOL TRACK STAR Esteve Salmo was a standout on Saturday, March 21 at the Big Island Interscholastic Federation track and field meet held in Kea`au. He took second in the long jump, leaping 19-01.50 feet, and fourth in the 100-yard dash, finishing in 11.53 seconds, under coach Jacob Findlay.
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LITTLE LEAGUE REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN for children from nine to 12 years old. Registration forms and fees of $55 are due by this Friday. All parents or guardians must bring participants’ birth certificates and three documents proving residency or one document supporting school enrollment. Anyone interested can stop by Na`alehu Park in the afternoons or call Jolisa Masters at 640-2135.

BEEKEEPERS JAMES SEVERTSON AND CAROL CONNER discuss Bees In Hawai`i: Trouble in Paradise? tomorrow at After Dark in the Park. They cover a brief history of the introduction of bees to the Hawaiian Islands, honeybee biology, bee parasites and Langstroth vs. top bar beehives. The program takes place at 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. $2 donations support After Dark programs. Park entrance fees apply.

`ULANA LAUHALA: PANDANUS WEAVING demonstrations take place Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center lanai in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Park rangers and cultural practitioners share the art and how to prepare leaves for weaving. Free; park entrance fees apply.

HAWAI`I WILDLIFE FUND’S VEHICLES are full for this Saturday’s Ka`u Coast Cleanup, but residents can still sign up and use their own 4WD vehicles. Volunteers meet at Wai`ohinu Park to carpool/caravan to Kamilo Point. Register at kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com or 769-7629.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

Cultural practitioners and rangers share the art of lauhala weaving tomorrow in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Photo from NPS

WHO WILL BE THE NEXT MISS KA`U COFFEE QUEEN? Four young Ka`u women are hoping to earn the title of Miss Ka`u Coffee on Sunday, April 26 at Pahala Community Center at 6:30 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 each and available from contenders and their families.

Maria Caroline Miranda

Joyce Anne Ibasan

All candidates are from families deeply embedded in the Ka`u Coffee industry. In alphabetical order:
Joyce Anne Ibasan was born on Jan. 26, 1994 in Dagupan, the Philippines. She is the daughter of Orlando Ibasan and Jocelyn Tamayo, of Pahala. The 21-year-old is a 2012 graduate of Ka`u High School. Ibasan graduates this spring with an Associate of Arts degree in administration of justice from Hawai`i Community College and plans to transfer to University of Hawai`i in Hilo to major in criminal justice. She works fulltime at Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. She completed two high school Youth Ranger internships with the interpretation and eruption crew/protection division of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park and continues in park internship programs. Ibasan is a fulltime student and fulltime employee.
Some of her family members recently started a Ka`u Coffee farm above Wood Valley Road. Her talents are singing and dancing.
Maria Caroline Miranda was born on June 4, 1992 in the California agricultural town of Visalia in the San Joaquin Valley. She is the daughter of award-winning coffee farmers Jose and Berta Miranda, of Discovery Harbour. The 23-year-old graduated from high school through Safe Haven Christian Co-op in 2012. She plans to study nursing at University of Hawai`i in Hilo after completing an Associate of Arts degree at Hawai`i Community College. At HCC, Miranda interned as a laboratory assistant. She is a Ka`u Chamber of Commerce scholarship winner. She volunteers at Ka`u Hospital, visiting residential patients, some with no family. Miranda works in her family Ka`u Coffee business, from picking to processing and marketing. She is developing a Sunday school program for Amazing Grace Baptist Church of South Point. Her talent is playing piano and singing.

Louise Vivien Santos

Jennifer Flores Tabios

Louise Vivien Santos was born on Dec. 2, 1994 in Ilocos Norte in the Philippines. She is the daughter of Arnel and Amelita Santos, of Pahala, her father a schoolteacher and mother an employee of a macadamia orchard.

Her aunt Anabelle Orcino is a Ka`u Coffee farmer, and Santos helps with the business. The 20-year-old graduated from Ka`u High School in 2013. Santos also graduated from high school with honors in the Philippines. She is a Ka`u Chamber of Commerce scholarship winner who studies in the nursing program at University of Hawai`i – Hilo. She aspires to become a nurse at Ka`u Hospital. She was a member of the National Honor Society, Interact Club and Akamai Finance Academy and has interned with the international Longshore & Warehouse Union. She has tutored at Pahala and Na`alehu schools, won statewide awards for science and engineering projects and speaks several languages. Her talent is playing the violin.
Jennifer Flores Tabios was born Jan. 11, 1997 on the Big Island. She is the daughter of William and Grace Tabios, of Na`alehu. The 18-year-old is a senior at Ka`u High School. She serves as vice president of the student body and is a member of National Honor Society and the Interact Club. She has earned one of the highest grade-point averages in her class. At the 2015 Science and Engineering Fair at `Imiloa, she won best project for astronomy and earned the Galileo Award for her experiment on surface tension. She works with her family’s The Rising Sun Ka`u Coffee, which has taken top awards at the international Specialty Coffee Association of America competition. She also works with the Will & Grace store in Na`alehu. Upon graduation, Tabios hopes to attend UCLA where she plans to study neurology. Her talent is singing and playing `ukulele.
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Rep. Richard Creagan

THE HOUSE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY and Environmental Protection is scheduled to decide on a resolution regarding Hawaiian Electric Co.’s proposed merger with NextEra Energy today. HR 158 requests that the Public Utilities Commission protect the public interest in reviewing the proposed acquisition to determine whether NextEra is likely to act in the long-term best interests of Hawai`i ratepayers and whether the transaction is in the long-term public interest, including the state’s ability to achieve its renewable energy goals. It also requests that the PUC consider, at a minimum, imposing strict conditions to ensure the bedrock principles of reliability, reasonable rates, competition and customer choice and protecting local jobs and economic benefits to the state.

Ka`u’s Rep. Richard Creagan told Chris D’Angelo, of West Hawai`i Today, that public perception is that the merger “is being rushed forward, which is unacceptable given that it will change lives across the state for a long time.” Creagan also said concerns about NextEra are “real, not rumors” and that the company is not a “white knight coming in to save Hawaiians” from high energy bills.
“They’re not coming in here to lose money. They’re coming in here to make money,” he said.
Creagan also told D’Angelo that Hawai`i Island should be given a chance to pursue an independent cooperative.
See westhawaiitoday.com.
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NEXTERA ENERGY, INC., HAWAIIAN ELECTRIC CO. and Hawai`i Electric Light Company yesterday announced that the companies will be hosting open house informational meetings to introduce residents to NextEra Energy and the benefits of the companies’ pending merger as well as to provide members of the public with the opportunity to provide input directly to company officials.

“Since we announced our merger late last year, we’ve been gratified at the reception we’ve received as well as the high level of interest in this important topic for Hawai`i,” said Eric Gleason, president of NextEra Energy Hawai`i, LLC. “NextEra Energy shares Hawaiian Electric’s vision of increasing renewable energy, modernizing its grid, reducing Hawai`i’s dependence on imported oil, integrating more rooftop solar energy and, importantly, lowering customer bills. We recognize that addressing Hawai`i’s energy challenges requires Hawai`i-specific energy solutions, and that is why we look forward to meeting with and listening to residents across Hawai`i. The meetings will provide us with the opportunity to receive valuable feedback while allowing residents to learn more about NextEra Energy and the significant near- and long-term benefits this merger will deliver to Hawaiian Electric customers and the state of Hawai`i.”
Alan Oshima, Hawaiian Electric’s president and chief executive officer, said, “In selecting NextEra Energy as our partner, we will join a company that shares our community and environmental values, has a proven track record of lowering electric bills, is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun, and is committed to rooftop solar in Hawai`i. We can’t imagine a better match to help us accelerate the clean energy transformation we all want for Hawai`i. We hope our customers will take the opportunity to meet members of the NextEra Energy team and learn firsthand why NextEra Energy is the right partner to help us achieve a cleaner and more affordable energy future for Hawai`i.”

Each open house meeting will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Meetings are on Monday, April 13 at Hilo and Pahoa High School Cafeterias and Tuesday, April 14 at Kealakehe High School Cafeteria and Hawai`i Preparatory Academy’s Village Campus Dining Hall.
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Beekeepers James Severtson and Carol Conner Photo from Aloha Honey Co.

LITTLE LEAGUE REGISTRATION is now open for children from nine to 12 years old. Registration forms and fees of $55 are due by this Friday. All parents or guardians must bring participants’ birth certificates and three documents proving residency or one document supporting school enrollment. Anyone interested can stop by Na`alehu Park in the afternoons or call Jolisa Masters at 640-2135.

BEEKEEPERS JAMES SEVERTSON AND CAROL CONNER discuss Bees In Hawai`i: Trouble in Paradise? today at After Dark in the Park. The program takes place at 7 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. $2 donations support After Dark programs. Park entrance fees apply.

HAWAI`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK rangers and cultural practitioners share the art of pandanus weaving and how to prepare leaves tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Kilauea Visitor Center lanai. Free; park entrance fees apply.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

With humpback whales preparing to head north, the final Sanctuary Ocean Count for this year is Saturday. Photo from NOAA

BOTH RESTAURANTS IN VOLCANO HOUSE are set to reopen tomorrow after being closed for at least two days to investigate a kitchen fire that occurred Tuesday morning.

The Rim Restaurant and Uncle George's Lounge are set to reopen today
after a kitchen fire Tuesday. Photo from hawaiivolcanohouse.com

The Rim Restaurant and Uncle George’s Lounge are closed as National Park Service investigators investigate the cause of the small blaze, said Hawai`i Volcanoes Lodge Company, LLC General Manager David Macilwraith. Volcano House Hotel remains open.
Park rangers, Hawai`i County medics and Engine 19 responded quickly to the fire alarm and calls to park dispatch around 10:30 a.m. Tuesday. A 42-year-old hotel employee suffered burns to his upper arms and was transported by county medics to the hospital.
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HAWAI`I’S PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS have shown that the transformative, systemwide changes undertaken by the Hawai`i State Department of Education in the implementation of its 2011-18 Strategic Plan are paying off.   The College and Career Indicators Report released by Hawai`i P-20 Partnerships for Education shows Hawai`i’s students have made steady, and in some cases, significant improvements in key indicators of college and career readiness, including Hawai`i State Assessment reading and mathematics scores, college enrollment and early credit attainment.
The CCRI report provides a detailed look at accomplishments of Class of 2014 students in high schools statewide and provides a measurement of their readiness for college and career.

Kathryn Matayoshi

Hawai`i State Assessment proficiency scores in mathematics increased 11 percentage points to 60 percent for the Class of 2014 from 49 percent for the Class of 2012, while reading proficiency rose to 72 percent from 67 percent. These gains are reflected in graduates’ readiness for college-level coursework in both increased enrollment in college-level math and English courses and decreased enrollment in remedial courses at University of Hawai`i campuses.
“The progress reflected in this year’s report is a real tribute to the continued hard work and dedication of our students, educators and administrators,” Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi said. “The graduating class of 2014 was the freshman class when Hawai`i first implemented Race to the Top reforms, so this CCRI report is significant in that it shows the positive impact of the reform efforts. There have been significant challenges in making these changes, but the resiliency and dedication of teachers, education leaders and everyone in our schools and communities to focus on what is best for students have allowed us to overcome the challenges and move the needle on student success. We’re setting high expectations with the Hawai`i Common Core and the new Smarter Balanced assessments so that students are ready to succeed once they graduate from high school, whether they choose to go to college or to begin an entry-level career.”
Hawai`i P-20 Partnerships for Education, a statewide partnership led by the Executive Office on Early Learning, the Hawai`i State Department of Education and the University of Hawai`i System works to strengthen the education pipeline from early childhood through higher education so that all students achieve college and career success. Hawai`i P-20’s partners share a sense of urgency about the need to improve Hawai`i’s educational outcomes in an increasingly global economy and have established a goal of 55 percent of Hawai`i’s working age adults having a two- or four-year college degree by 2025.
For more information, see http://www.p20hawaii.org .
See hawaiipublicschools.org.

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Sen. Mazie Hirono

Sen. Brian Schatz

THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE will allocate almost $3.3 million to Hawai`i for programs that prevent the introduction or spread of plant pests, diseases and pathogens, including the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle and other invasive species.

“Hawai`i is home to many unique plants and animals found nowhere else in the world,” Sen. Brian Schatz said. “The indigenous wildlife of our islands must be preserved, and these funds from the USDA will help prevent the spread of invasive species and protect our ecosystem.
Sen Mazie Hirono said, “As an island state, Hawai`i’s agricultural community faces unique challenges as we work to increase our food security. ... These grants provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture will facilitate increased collaboration between federal, state and academic partners to strengthen protections for our growers against invasive species. I look forward to discussing these issues with members of our agricultural community and USDA officials in the coming weeks and months.”
The bulk of the funds, $2.2 million, will be diverted to the rapid response to new detection of Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle in Hawai`i – Year Two program. The program seeks to combat spread of the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle, an invasive species that was first detected in Hawai`i in December of 2013.
Additional funds will be allocated to the National Clean Plant Program, a program that seeks to ensure the availability of a healthy and clean national plant stock. These funds are provided through the Agricultural Act of 2014. In total the grant would provide an additional $3,289,278 in funding for Hawai`i.
A multi-agency group has been working under the Incident Command System to manage this eradication program. Agencies currently involved include U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Navy, Hawai`i Department of Agriculture, Hawai`i Dept. of Land and Natural Resources, UH-College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, O`ahu Invasive Species Committee and others.
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Rep. Tulsi Gabbard

THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES has passed the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Reauthorization Act of 2015.
NAHASDA was first established in 1996 with the consolidation of several separate assistance programs, provided by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, into a single block grant program. In 2000, NAHASDA was amended to add Title VIII – Housing Assistance for Native Hawaiians. The amendment adds similar programs for Native Hawaiians who reside on Hawaiian Home Lands to the NAHASDA legislation.
“Since its enactment, this legislation has strengthened indigenous self-determination by empowering Native people by addressing affordable housing needs,” said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. “In my home state of Hawai`i, it has increased homeownership among Native Hawaiians, bringing hope to many people who are living paycheck to paycheck. ... It is an important step toward removing roadblocks to economic success, not only in Hawai`i but in Native communities across the country.
“I am extremely pleased that Congress passed the NAHASDA Reauthorization. This crucial piece of legislation reaffirms the commitment of the United States to the Native peoples of our country. NAHASDA not only helps with providing funding for housing programs, but also provides vital resources to foster the indigenous cultures of our great nation. Hawai`i has one of the highest costs of living in the nation, so support through NAHASDA is essential for Native Hawai`i families who wish to remain on their ancestral lands. I would like to extend a warm mahalo to my colleagues in the House … who fought to reauthorize NAHASDA and recognize its vital importance in regards to fostering the indigenous cultures of America.”
The House passed NAHASDA with a vote of 297-98.

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Ka`u Learning Academy screens Secrets of the Mummy Dinosaur Sunday.
Photo from Joe Iacuzzo

KA`U LEARNING ACADEMY SCREENS THE FILM Secrets of the Mummy Dinosaur this Sunday, March 29 at 6:15 p.m. at the charter school’s Discovery Harbour campus. Following the video, KLA Managing Director Joe Iacuzzo, one of the show’s producers, gives a talk on the role Thomas Jefferson played in the fossil history of America.

KLA begins teaching grades three through six in the 2015-2016 school year. “This is a great opportunity to meet fellow students and family members,” Iacuzzo said.

For more information, call 213-1097.

HAWAI`I WILDLIFE FUND’S VEHICLES are full for Saturday’s Ka`u Coast Cleanup, but residents can still sign up and use their own 4WD vehicles. Volunteers meet at Wai`ohinu Park at 7:45 a.m. to carpool/caravan to Kamilo Point. Register at 769-7629 or kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com.

THE FINAL SANCTUARY OCEAN COUNT of 2015 takes place Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Volunteers count and monitor whales at various coastal sites including South Point, Punalu`u and Ka`ena Point. Preregistration is required at sanctuaryoceancount.org.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

Kilauea Volcano alert level is now watch instead of warning, with eruption and breakouts continuing near Pu`u O`o but not threatening populated areas. Photos from USGS HVO

HAWAIIAN VOLCANO OBSERVATORY has downgraded the volcano alert level for Kilauea from warning to watch because the immediate threat from the June 27th lava flow has been reduced. In recent weeks, Pu`u `O`o lava flows nearest to Pahoa became inactive, although eruption of lava continues at both the Pu`u `O`o vent on Kilauea Volcano’s East Rift Zone and in Halema`uma`u Crater at the volcano’s summit.

Activity continues inside Pu`u O`o.

Presently, the only active surface lava occurs in four separate breakouts from the main lava tube within three areas in the upper four miles of the flow field below Pu`u `O`o. Lava from these breakouts is moving slowly atop earlier flows and along the margin of the June 27th and the Kahauale`a (2013-2014) flow fields. Based on the rate and trajectory of these active flows, HVO anticipates that it will be at least months before lava could reach to within one mile or one week of homes or infrastructure.
According to HVO, the ultimate trajectory and path of the lava flow depends on how lava activity evolves in these areas. Should breakouts along the northern margin of the June 27th flow field become dominant, the resulting lava flow will likely follow steepest lines of descent that approach Hawaiian Acres and Ainaloa subdivisions. Should the breakout heading toward the south margin of the June 27th flow field become dominant, the resulting flow will likely parallel the East Rift Zone and approach the Pahoa area.
At this time, reoccupation of the lava tube that fed lava flows toward Pahoa Marketplace area is unlikely. Should this occur, however, delivery of lava farther downslope to the currently inactive extent of the June 27th lava flow field could happen more quickly, perhaps within weeks.
This assessment is based on continued lava production at Pu`u `O`o at current eruption rates and vent location. Should the eruption rate increase significantly or the locus of eruption shift to a new vent, the conditions of lava flow advance and associated threat could change quickly.
HVO will continue to monitor the volcano closely in cooperation with Hawai`i County Civil Defense, and daily updates will continue.

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HAWAIIAN ISLANDS HUMPBACK WHALE National Marine Sanctuary could expand its size and focus if a rule proposed by the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration is adopted. The proposed expansion, which would include multiple marine species, follows extensive collaboration with partners including non-governmental organizations, businesses, scientists and other members of the community.

NOAA wants to expand boundaries of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback
Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Map from NOAA

“This proposal is the result of a multi-year collaborative effort that involved considerable input from all sectors of the local community,” said sanctuary superintendent Malia Chow. “We welcome further public review and input into our proposed new management plan as we move forward with the important job of managing this special place which is critical to both the regional economy and communities in Hawai`i.”

In 2012, during the process to review the sanctuary’s management plan, the sanctuary advisory council’s working groups determined that while humpback whales remain the centerpiece of sanctuary protection, there is an increased need and urgency to take a more integrated approach to marine resource management.
According to NOAA, the ecosystem-based management approach, as proposed, is backed by science and is consistent with the traditional Hawaiian approach to managing natural and cultural resources. NOAA works closely with the state of Hawai`i, local communities and various stakeholders to protect Hawai`i’s natural and cultural resources.
The proposed rule also includes a boundary expansion that adds 235 square miles of state and federal waters around O`ahu, Kaua`i and Ni`ihau, bringing the total sanctuary area to 1,601 square miles and providing the sanctuary with new opportunities to work closely with communities on priority resource protection issues.
Members of the public are invited to submit comments to the agency on the proposed rule and draft environmental impact statement through June 19. Following the comment period, a final management plan and environmental impact statement will be prepared through a public process under the National Environmental Policy Act.
NOAA holds a meeting on the proposed rule May 7 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kealakehe High School Cafeteria in Kona.

Comments may also be submitted by the following methods:

Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=NOAA-NOS-2015-0028. Submit electronic comments via the Federal eRulemaking Portal with Docket Number NOAA-NOS-2015-0028
Mail: Malia Chow, Sanctuary Superintendent; 1845 Wasp Blvd; Building 176; Honolulu, HI 96818.

For more information on the proposal, visit the sanctuary’s website at http://hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov/management/management_plan_review.html.

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Image from Hawai`i Tourism Authority

BODY COUNT IS UP, BUT SPENDING is down in tourism to Hawai`i, according to the lastest report from Hawai`i Tourism Authority.

Total visitors to the Hawaiian Islands through February 2015 rose slightly (+0.8 percent) to 1.34 million arrivals, 11,224 more compared to the first two months of 2014. Year-to-date, visitor expenditures were down (-3.3 percent) to $2.6 billion, along with state tax revenue down (-3.3 percent) to $274.8 million, as the U.S. dollar continues to strengthen against international currencies.
In order to offset fluctuating exchange rates, the HTA is working with its global contractors to implement innovative and collaborative campaigns, including major in-market branding and mileage promotions, in an effort to help sustain airlift and arrivals to Hawai`i.
Total air seats to the state increased 5.3 percent to 1.8 million during the first two months of the year, sustained by growth from the core North America market – U.S. West (+9.2 percent), U.S. East (+5.3 percent) and Canada (+14 percent) – as well as from Oceania (+19.6 percent). This included increased air seats to Kahului (+19.8 percent), Kona (+7.9 percent) and Lihue (+5.8 percent), which contributed to a boost in visitor arrivals to each island.
Airlift to Hawai`i is projected to increase through the second quarter. Chief Executive Officer Ronald Williams said HTA will continue to work with its industry partners and global contractors to capitalize on this growth to maintain a stable tourism economy.

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HFBF President Chris Manfredi

HFUU President Vincent Mina with his daughter Kahaulani at Earth
Matters farm in Ka`u. Photo by Julia Neal

HAWAI`I PUBLIC RADIO features representatives of Hawai`i farm organizations today at 5 p.m. on Town Square, one of its oldest public affairs programs. Hawai`i Farmers Union United Vice President and Legislative Chair Simon Russell and President Vincent Mina will speaking about the organization. In addition, according to HFUU, Hawai`i Farm Bureau Federation President Chris Manfredi is a confirmed panelist.
Hosted and produced by Beth-Ann Kozlovich, Town Square has provided an interactive forum for political, social, educational and cultural issues of local, national and international importance since 1999. According to HPR, “discussions are lively and almost always civil.”

The program is available at KAHU-FM 97.1 and also streamed live at http://hpr2.org. Listeners can call in questions and comments at 1-877-941-3689.

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PARTICIPANTS BRING LUNCH AND LEARN about the vital role of `ohi`a lehua in native Hawaiian forests, the many forms of the `ohi`a lehua tree and its flower during a free program Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at the Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Call 985-6011 for more information.

DESIGNS OF MICAH L.K. KAMOHOALI`I are featured in a solo exhibition opening Saturday at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Kamohoali`i began making kapa as a child using skills passed down through many generations. Hula has been a part of Kamohoali`i life from the age of three. Through the dance tradition, he learned the history of his people. He continues to share these stories through instruction of the ancient tradition as Kumu Hula to Halau Na Kipu`upu`u.

Under his direction, the halau will open the exhibit with a Hula Kahiko performance at 10:30 a.m. Kamohoali`i and his halau will be on hand after the performance displaying hand-made regalia and props used.
An opening reception takes place 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The exhibit is open daily through April 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

KA`U FARM BUREAU MEETS MONDAY, March 30 at 6 p.m. at Pahala Community Center. Election of officers is on the agenda, along with a guest speaker. For more information, email ralph@rustyshawaiian.com.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

Ocean safety officers at Punalu`u Black Sand Beach will have an ATV to help with rescues. Photo by Julia Neal

PUNALU`U BEACH OCEAN SAFETY OFFICERS will have an all-terrain vehicle available following a grant from Bank of Hawai`i to the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation. The foundation is a volunteer-run, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing essential equipment and training to Hawai`i County Fire Department. The ATV can quickly carry life-saving equipment and supplies to drowning victims and spinal cord injury victims, assisting in life-saving measures provided by Hawai`i County Fire Department.

Dan Galanis

West Hawai`i Today reported that, according to state Department of Health epidemiologist Dan Galanis, Hawai`i lost 256 residents and 820 visitors to drowning between 2003 and 2012. Hawai`i Island lost the greatest number of residents to drowning and was second in the state for nonresidents drownings.
Near drownings accounted for 46 percent of nonfatal injuries resulting in hospitalization among nonresidents while an additional 63 nonresidential hospitalizations occurred from ocean-related activities. Approximately 48 percent of hospitalization of nonresidents during this time frame occurred in ocean-related accidents.
Also, the leading cause of spinal cord injuries in Hawai`i from 2009 through 2012 was from ocean activities.
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TALKING ABOUT FARMING WITH FARMERS was the topic of Hawai`i Public Radio’s Town Square program yesterday. Moderator Beth-Ann Kozlovich discussed farming in Hawai`i with Wai`anae farmer Ken Koike, Maui farmer and Hawai`i Farmers Union United Vice President Simon Russell and Hawai`i Farm Bureau Federation President Chris Manfredi.

Ken Koike

Kozlovich introduced Koike as the farm project coordinator of Ono & Pono farms in Wai`anae, growing fish and kalo in an aquaponic system as well as canoe foods and various animals.
She said Russell grows crops on Maui including bananas, papayas, vegetables and ducks. He wants to move Hawai`i’s agriculture “in the direction of regenerative farming practices for self-sufficiency and food sovereignty.”
Kozlovich said Manfredi is “best known for kick-starting the Ka`u Coffee industry” and that he organizes the annual Ka`u Coffee Festival. She said HFBF “supports all forms of agriculture” and is the largest agriculture advocacy organization in the state.
Educating the next generation of farmers was a priority for the panelists. Russell said HFUU supports mentoring programs to teach and train farmers to utilize a whole-system approach to agriculture.
Mandfredi said education is “near and dear” to HFBF. “Farmers are constantly faced with challenges,” Manfredi told Kozlovich. “We have to deal with all these at the same time that we’re trying to grow the next generation of farmers and ranchers.” Manfredi said the most important bill being considered at the state Legislature is HB 853, which would establish a K-12 Agriculture Workforce Development Pipeline Initiative to conduct trainings for teachers and school administrators in agricultural self-sufficiency.

Simon Russell

Koike said the biggest problem for so many of those who want to farm is finding land. He said having a Department of Agriculture “that wants to help us farm” should be a priority. He also said that he is not permitted to live on his leased farm land, which increases vulnerability to theft.
Regarding theft, Manfredi said HFBF supports HB 823, which would establish a two-year agricultural theft pilot project in the Department of Agriculture to focus on investigating and prosecuting agricultural theft or agricultural vandalism in Hawai`i County.
Kozlovich asked, “Do you feel like you’re all speaking with a similar voice, or is there an issue between farmers that we don’t understand well enough?”

Manfredi said, “I think our time is best spent focusing on issues upon which we can all agree.”
Russell said that the two organizations can collaborate on some issues. He said HFUU supports legislation on markets, lowering cost of labor, access to water and getting farmers onto land.

Manfredi said biosecurity is a top issue for HFBF members and that HB850, which would provide two new extension agents in every county, is another bill HFBF supports that is making its way through the Legislature.

Chris Manfredi

Russell said, “To live off of the farm, you need to live on the farm.” He said farmers need affordable labor costs and inputs.
When Kozlovich asked what could be done to help farmers, Manfredi brought up having a local feed industry so farmers would not have to pay for imported feed.
Koike discussed the various types of ag in Hawai`i. He characterized one part of ag as an industry – coffee, macadamia nuts and other value-added products – and another as food for consumption locally. He said that using large equipment helps efficiency, “but we want 50 people to be on the field” to create jobs. He said he’s not interested in “massive amounts of profitability.”
A caller asked what the differences are between HFBF and HFUU.
Manfredi said the organizations have more that they agree upon than things that they don’t. “We support all of agriculture, he said. “Hawai`i has an important role in the global food system. … Issues that we are talking about here locally play themselves out on a global scale – reduction in farmer work force, finite amount of land, finite amount of water, reducing water, climate change, weeds, pests, disease.”
Russell said, “We (HFUU) advocate for sovereign right of family farmers to create and sustain vibrant and prosperous ag communities for the benefit of all Hawai`i through cooperation, education and legislation. He said HFUU focuses on soil health initiatives and family farming and that they don’t generally speak for agribusiness corporations.
Koike said his focus is nutrition. “The ultimate goal isn’t to make money; it is to produce the most healthy food.”
The full program is available at hpr2.org.
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Sen. Mazie Hirono, at left, with Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid,
at podium. Photo from Office of Sen. Hirono

HAWAI`I’S U.S. SENATORS ARE PRAISING Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid, who announced he would not seek reelection.

“Democratic Leader Harry Reid is one of the smartest and toughest people I know. As our Democratic Leader, Harry never backed down from a challenge – working to protect Social Security and Medicare, pushing for immigration reform, passing the landmark Affordable Care Act and fighting for his home state of Nevada. Harry has always been willing to stand up for what’s right, and our country is a better place because of him.
“Harry has been a wonderful friend and a mentor, and he will leave behind a remarkable legacy. But this Congress has just begun, and I look forward to continuing our work together as he finishes out his term.”
Sen. Mazie Hirono said, “Sen. Reid is a fighter for the middle-class and a champion for immigrant families and the Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders community. He’s been a steady hand for our caucus, and his leadership and resolve will be missed next Congress. I wish him and Landra (his wife) all the best.”
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`Ohi`a lehua is the topic tomorrow at Kahuku. Photo from NPS

PARTICIPANTS BRING LUNCH AND LEARN about the vital role of `ohi`a lehua in native Hawaiian forests, the many forms of the `ohi`a lehua tree and its flower during a free program tomorrow at 9:30 a.m. at the Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Call 985-6011 for more information.

DESIGNS OF MICAH L.K. KAMOHOALI`I are featured in a solo exhibition opening tomorrow at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.
Under his direction, Halau Na Kipu`upu`u will open the exhibit with a Hula Kahiko performance at 10:30 a.m. Kamohoali`i and his halau will be on hand after the performance displaying hand-made regalia and props used.
An opening reception takes place 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The exhibit is open daily through April 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

PARTICIPANTS DISCOVER THE HAWAIIAN goddesses, sisters Pele and Hi`iaka, and the natural phenomena they represent through epic stories depicted in the natural landscape of Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. This is an easy 1.7-mile walk on the main road in Kahuku.

KA`U FARM BUREAU MEETS MONDAY, March 30 at 6 p.m. at Pahala Community Center. Election of officers is on the agenda, along with a guest speaker. For more information, email ralph@rustyshawaiian.com.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf.

Volcano School of Arts & Sciences Middle Public Charter School was awarded $1,000 for first place in the 2014 Recycle-Bowl State Championship. Photo by Rebecca Hatch

NEXT WEEK, THE STATE LEGISLATURE will make a decision on a bill that would authorize the Department of Agriculture to adopt rules relating to the declaration of Hawai`i geographic indication for agricultural commodities, except coffee and macadamia nuts. House Bill 1051 moved to the Senate for consideration by the Agriculture Committee.

Simon Russell, at left, with HFUU President Vincent Mina
Photo from HFUU

Testimony supporting the bill came from Ag Department chair Scott Enright; Hawai`i Farm Bureau Federation President Chris Manfredi; John Cross, of Hawai`i Macadamia Nut Association; and Hawai`i Coffee Association President Jim Wayman. “It is important to provide a path for origin protection and the development of rules to support each of our agricultural commodities,” Wayman said. “This bill establishes a path for those commodities which desire this service to do so without having to go to the Legislature for the passage of new statutes. Individual commodity groups will have a place at the table with the HDOA in determining their own future.”
Simon Russell, Vice President of Hawai`i Farmers Union United, submitted testimony in opposition of the bill. “Producers are not mentioned in the text of this bill,” Russell wrote. “There already is an international framework for geographic indications (Think Champagne from France.) that is being utilized to great advantage to farmers in Europe. We suggest HDOA and industry take a look at that model and work with us to integrate intentions in this bill with what is already happening globally… .
“While the intent of this bill may be to establish a Hawai`i geographic origin regime, we do not think the method described in this bill will be beneficial to the producers, and in fact will give buyers and processors more leverage to drive prices down, making it more difficult to make a living farming in Hawai`i.”
Opposition also came from Bruce Corker, chair of Kona Coffee Farmers Association’s legislative committee; Colehour Bondera, of Kanalani Farm; and Eva Lee, a Volcano tea grower.
See more on HB 1051 at capitol.hawaii.gov.

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Lex Brodie's was a major Recycle-Bowl sponsor.
Photo from VSAS

VOLCANO SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES Middle Public Charter School was awarded as the 2014 Recycle-Bowl Hawai`i State Champion for recycling the most pounds per student per school over four weeks of competition. As a first-time participant in this event, VSAS students received support from teachers and staff to collect and divert a total of 984 pounds of paper, cardboard, cartons, plastics and food waste from the landfill. Their outstanding recycling efforts earned their school a $1,000 prize award sponsored by Lex Brodie Tire Foundation.

Hawai`i Island schools rallied to divert campus discards from the landfill by participating in the fourth Annual Recycle-Bowl Competition from Oct. 20 to Nov. 15, 2014. Results of this nationwide recycling competition were announced in February, and an awards ceremony was held on March 11 to acknowledge the top schools statewide.
Local businesses donated awards for the other top three schools in the state – all from Hawai`i Island. The second place winner, Konawaena High School, received a $500 prize donated by Lex Brodie’s Tire Co. The third place winner, Pahoa Intermediate-High School, received a $250 prize sponsored by Goodfellow Bros., Inc. The fourth place winner, St. Joseph Junior/Senior High School, received a $100 prize donated by Island Naturals Market and Deli.
For information on Recycle-Bowl, sponsored by Keep America Beautiful, visit www.Recycle-Bowl.org. In Hawai`i, Recycle-Bowl is coordinated and promoted by Recycle Hawai`i and Keep the Hawaiian Islands Beautiful.
For recycling, composting and zero waste information, contact Recycle Hawai`i at www.recyclehawaii.org or info@recyclehawaii.org.

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WITH THE RECENT DOWNGRADE of the Volcano Alert Level for Kilauea’s June 27th lava flow that has been threatening the Pahoa area, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists take a look back at the 1880-1881 Mauna Loa lava flow and the threat that it posed to Hilo in the current issue of Volcano Watch.
“On the evening of Nov. 5, 1880, people in Hilo and at the Volcano House Hotel at the summit of Kilauea noticed a glow on Mauna Loa – produced by an eruption located northeast of the volcano’s summit. A vent at about the 10,500-foot elevation produced one lava flow that moved to the southeast and stalled about 1.5 miles from Highway 11 near Kilauea caldera. A second vent, immediately downslope of the first, erupted a pahoehoe lava flow that advanced to the northeast toward Hilo.

“By January 1881, the northeast flow was estimated to be about 18 miles from Hilo. This flow was of interest to Hilo residents, but not a big concern. However, by April, the flow had split into three branches in the vicinity of what is now Kaumana City, a subdivision at the upper Hilo city limits, and advanced to within seven miles of the town. By the beginning of July, a single branch was only 2.5 miles from Hilo.

A sketch by Joseph Nawahi shows the 1881 lava flow approaching Hilo.
Image from NPS/Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.

“The flows were initially difficult to access. But by July, the flows had moved close enough to Hilo that residents and visitors alike were frequently trekking up to the flow to watch its progress. They observed that the pahoehoe would advance very quickly as narrow fingers for short periods of time and then stall, only to repeat the process a few hours or days later. Astonishing stories of narrow lobes of lava advancing hundreds of feet in a few hours were common.
“Observers would occasionally note that the lava sometimes occupied a ravine or gulch where water flowed during heavy rains. As the flows got closer to Hilo, people often noticed that warm water seemed to flow out from under the active lava.
“As the eruption continued, Hilo residents became alarmed, and many started moving their belongings out of harm’s way. The branch closest to Hilo split into two lobes, with one headed down `Alenaio gulch toward the center of Hilo, and the other headed down Kalanakama`a gulch (near and parallel to Mohouli Street) toward the Waiakea Fishponds and Sugar Mill (Wailoa State Park). Everyone feared that the lava would cut through town and enter Hilo Bay.
“Just as concern was getting intense, the leading tips of both lobes stalled on or about Aug. 10 with the Kalanakama`a lobe a little more than one mile from Hilo Bay. The `Alenaio lobe didn’t quite reach Komohana Street. The lava had destroyed only one house near the current location of Kaumana Elementary School. By Aug. 19, the lower portions of the flow were inactive.
“This Mauna Loa flow differed from Kilauea’s June 27th flow in two significant ways. The Mauna Loa 1880-1881 flow is about twice the length of the June 27th flow, and the Mauna Loa eruption rate was probably higher.
“But there were also some similarities. The Mauna Loa 1880-1881 and the Kilauea June 27th lava flows were both pahoehoe and were active for about nine months before their threats were reduced. Both flows greatly concerned the people who lived and worked downslope of the advancing fronts, but the flows consumed only a single house before their leading edges stalled. And both flows cut a swath through heavily forested land.
“But in the case of the 1880-1881 Mauna Loa flow, the open swath it cut through the forest eventually improved travel from Hilo to Waimea and Kona via the saddle between Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea. Years later, the Saddle Road, as it is now known, took advantage of this path. Today, Saddle Road crosses four Mauna Loa flows – the 1880-1881, 1855-1856, 1899, and 1935 flows – between mile markers 3 and 29.
“While the 1880-1881 Mauna Loa eruption may have had a beneficial aspect – blazing a trail for Saddle Road – that’s not always the case with active lava flows.”
See hvo.wr.usgs.gov for more articles and lava flow updates.

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Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park presents its program
Pele & Hi`iaka tomorrow. Photo from NPS

DESIGNS OF MICAH L.K. KAMOHOALI`I are featured in a solo exhibition opening today at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.

An opening reception takes place 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The exhibit is open daily through April 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

PARTICIPANTS DISCOVER THE HAWAIIAN goddesses, sisters Pele and Hi`iaka, and the natural phenomena they represent through epic stories depicted in the natural landscape of Kahuku Unit of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park tomorrow from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. This is an easy 1.7-mile walk on the main road in Kahuku.

KA`U FARM BUREAU MEETS MONDAY at 6 p.m. at Pahala Community Center. Election of officers is on the agenda, along with a guest speaker. For more information, email ralph@rustyshawaiian.com.

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

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

Preliminary results are in from yesterday's Sanctuary Ocean Count of humpback whales. Photo from wayfaring.info

COTTAGE FOOD OPERATIONS are considered by the state House of Representatives tomorrow. SB 379 would require cottage food operators who produce non-potentially hazardous food products in a home or farm kitchen for direct sale to consumers to obtain a cottage food operation permit from the Department of Health.

Any cottage food product produced by a cottage food operation would have to be labeled as a cottage food product. The label must be displayed in a conspicuous place on the principal display area of the packaging or container and shall the words “Made in a Home or Farm Kitchen” and identify any allergens contained in the product.

Greg Smith, of Earth Matters Farm on South Point Road, submitted testimony
on a cottage food operations bill. Photo by Ron Johnson

Greg Smith, owner of Earth Matters Farm and president of Ka`u Farmers Union United, submitted testimony in support of the measure. “As an organic farmer on the Big Island, the need for value added products from my farm is crucial to keeping the farm income flowing,” Smith wrote. “I live out in the country, where finding someone to rent the kitchen is almost unheard of, and if you find a (certified) kitchen it is expensive. My wife is a certified master canner and preserver. She is so diligent with her canning safety measures for our Community Supported Agriculture customers that her kitchen is cleaner than the certified one she uses for our farmers market sales. To be able to do everything in one location, at home, would be a step in right direction. Please pass this bill for all of the creative value added folks in Hawai`i.”
Hawai`i Department of Health opposes the measure because “a comprehensive food safety regulation was recently adopted that incorporates the most current science in controlling risk factors known to cause foodborne illness,” according to DOH’s testimony. “The measure amends HRS 328 and conflicts with and creates confusion with existing Hawai`i Administrative Rules which currently regulate the food industry. HAR Chapter 50, Food Safety Code, already provides the Home-Made food industry the opportunity to produce non-potentially hazardous foods (i.e., cookies, breads, jams, etc.) from their homes for direct sales to consumers.
Testimony from The Kohala Center addresses DOH’s concerns. Regarding food safety, “the bill draws upon cottage food laws and regulations from across the nation and incorporates measures to control risk factors known to cause foodborne illness by recommending food safety training, product testing, kitchen inspections and food handling rules.”
Regarding current regulations, “the bill goes beyond the current Food Safety Code and creates a system for cottage food producers to sell non-potentially hazardous foods, including acidified foods, to retailers such as restaurants and hotels, provided that producers consent to kitchen inspections, undergo sufficient training, and, for certain foods, submit their products for testing,” according to The Kohala Center.
Ka`u residents can read the bill and testimony, as well as provide testimony, at capitol.hawaii.gov.
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T-shirt sales support Sanctuary Ocean Counts.

MORE THAN 600 VOLUNTEERS GATHERED data from the shores of Hawai`i Island, O`ahu and Kaua`i during the final event of the 20th Anniversary Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count. The most whales volunteers saw in Ka`u were at Ka Lae, with three seen in each of three separate 15-minute time periods.

The count, conducted three times per year during peak whale season, is a shore-based census that provides snapshot data on humpback whales. Participants tally humpback whale sightings and document the animals’ surface behavior during the survey.
Volunteers collected data from 57 sites statewide. A total of 160 whales were seen during the 9:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. time period, the most of any time period throughout yesterday’s count. The sites that reported the highest average number of humpback whales were predominantly located within sanctuary boundaries.
Varying weather conditions made for a unique experience at each of the project sites. Many Kaua`i volunteers enjoyed calm weather and clear visibility. Several Hawai`i Island and O`ahu sites were faced with rough seas, white caps and passing squalls.

“For 20 years, the Sanctuary Ocean Count has proven to be a fun volunteer activity for residents and visitors,” said Sanctuary Superintendent Malia Chow. “It also provides important population and distribution information on humpback whales around the Hawaiian Islands that we use to better understand and protect this important species.”
Preliminary data detailing whale sightings by site location is available at http://www.sanctuaryoceancount.org/resources/.
Additional information and T-shirt sales to support the program are available on the sanctuary’s website at http://hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov.
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Hui Panalau colonists onboard the Itasca helped secure and establish jurisdiction
of the United States over remote Pacific Ocean islands.
Photo from University of Hawai`i-Manoa

HAWAI`I’S U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION has introduced resolutions in the Senate and House of Representatives acknowledging and honoring young men from Hawai`i, the majority of whom were Native Hawaiian, who participated in the Equatorial Pacific colonization project. The efforts of these young men, also known as the Hui Panala`au colonists, helped secure and establish jurisdiction of the United States over equatorial islands in the Pacific Ocean during the years leading up to and the months immediately following the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the entry of the United States into World War II.
“Recognizing these young men for their service to our country is long overdue,” said Sen. Brian Schatz. “Nearly eight decades ago, during a pivotal time in our nation’s history, these men risked their lives and helped secure territorial jurisdiction over the key remote islands of Jarvis, Howland and Baker. This resolution honors the brave efforts of these young colonists and pays tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.”

James Carroll was a member
of Hui Panala`au.
Photo from Bishop Museum

Sen. Mazie Hirono said, “During my time as a member of Congress, I have had the opportunity to learn about the Hui Panala`au colonists, and as a member of the House of Representatives, I joined with the Hawai`i Congressional delegation in introducing a resolution to acknowledge and honor these young men on behalf of the United States. I was struck by how brave these young men had been while living on the remote islands of Howland, Baker and Jarvis. The work of the Hui Panala`au colonists was important, and their stories are riveting and heartbreaking. My condolences go out to the families who lost loved ones in this initiative all those years ago. I look forward to again working with my colleagues in the delegation to help these men and their families achieve the recognition they deserve.”
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard said, “We celebrate the contributions and sacrifices of the Hui Panala`au colonists... . More than 130 of these young men, a majority of whom were Native Hawaiian, participated in this project; some of them lost their lives representing our nation during their service, particularly in the years leading up to the bombing of Pearl Harbor. It is time for our government to recognize the accomplishments of these brave souls, few of whom are still alive today, and honor the memory of those who are no longer with us.”
Throughout the seven years of colonization of the islands, 130 men joined the effort and risked their lives. Today, there are three known surviving colonists in Hawai`i.
“Although precious few of us remain, it is gratifying to know that the Hawai`i delegation is united in an effort to gain acknowledgment of our deeds and to honor the ultimate sacrifices made by the members of the Hui Panala`au,” said surviving Jarvis Island colonist Paul Phillips, 93. “It has been a long time coming, and I hope I live to see the day when the Hui Panala`au receive the recognition that they so honorably deserve.”

George Kahanu Photo from
Bishop Museum

Noelle Kahanu said, “As a granddaughter of one of the last surviving colonists, George Kahanu, I want to thank Sens. Schatz and Hirono and Reps. Takai and Gabbard for introducing resolutions to acknowledge the accomplishments and sacrifices of more than 130 brave young men of Hawai`i whose collective actions enabled President Roosevelt to claim these remote islands in the Pacific. It has been 80 years since this fledgling group of young Hawaiians, all recent graduates of Kamehameha Schools, set sail for these distant islands, representing their families, their schools, their communities and ultimately, their country.”
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KA`U LEARNING ACADEMY SCREENS THE FILM Secrets of the Mummy Dinosaur today at 6:15 p.m. at the charter school’s Discovery Harbour campus. Following the video, KLA Managing Director Joe Iacuzzo, one of the show’s producers, gives a talk on the role Thomas Jefferson played in the fossil history of America.
KLA begins teaching grades three through six in the 2015-2016 school year.
For more information, call 213-1097.

KA`U FARM BUREAU MEETS tomorrow at 6 p.m. at Pahala Community Center. Election of officers is on the agenda, along with a guest speaker. For more information, email ralph@rustyshawaiian.com.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

A volunteer with Stewardship at the Summit removes invasive Himalayan ginger from a kolea lau nui, an endemic understory tree found in the rain forests on Kilauea volcano in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Stewardship dates are set through June.
NPS Photo from Jessica Ferracane

HAWAI`I COUNTY COUNCIL COMMITTEES tomorrow discuss ways to limit material going into landfills. The Finance Committee, meeting at 10 a.m., considers Resolution 126-15, which would authorize payment of funds of a later fiscal year and of a multi-fiscal year agreement for the Department of Environmental Management to furnish organic waste diversion operations in West Hawai`i and East Hawai`i .

Margaret Wille

It calls for the mayor to enter into a four-year contract, with the option of two one-year extensions, to provide organics diversion, treatment of mulch for invasive species, a compost demonstration project and to expand organic diversion programs to a composting operation.
At 1 p.m., the Environmental Management Committee takes up Bill 32 and 33 introduced by Kohala’s County Council member Margaret Wille.
Bill 32 relates to disposal of refuse in a manner that rewards those who separate recyclables and compostables from landfill refuse. It would require the Environmental Management director to implement a partial pay-per-bag fee program for refuse to be landfilled, allowing each household and business one 33-gallon bag of refuse per week to be landfilled without any bag fee.
Bill 33 would prohibit the disposal of compostable or recyclable material at any county landfill or transfer station as of Jan. 1, 2018. It would also establish additional requirements and fees for commercial haulers with regard to the disposal of compostable or recyclable materials.
Other committees meeting tomorrow are Governmental Relations & Economic Development at 9 a.m.; Planning, 9:15 a.m.; Public Works and Parks & Recreation, 9:30 a.m.; and Human Services & Social Services, 9:45 a.m.
The full County Council meets Wednesday at 9 a.m.
All meetings, held at Council Chambers in Hilo, are streamed live at hawaiicounty.gov. Click on Council Meetings.
Ka`u residents can also participate via videoconferencing at Ocean View Community Center.
Agendas are available at hawaiicounty.gov.
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Ronn Nozoe Photo from HDOE

HAWAI`I DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Deputy Superintendent Ronn Nozoe, credited with helping steer schools toward higher achievement and lead organizational change, heads to Washington D.C. next month. He will be Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Programs in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education at the U.S. Department of Education. The position is a presidential appointment.

“Ronn Nozoe is part of a great team in Hawai`i that has made tremendous strides in improving teaching and learning across the state. His experience as a teacher, principal, superintendent and state leader make him well qualified to help the U.S. Department of Education’s effort to partner with states and local districts to help ensure all students are successful,” said Deborah Delisle, Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education. “We are thrilled to have Ronn on board.”
Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi praised the move. “Ronn will bring to Washington school- and state-level perspectives of the hard work that has been done here in Hawai`i as well as a focus on keeping students at the center of our work,” Matayoshi said.
Nozoe was appointed Deputy Superintendent in December 2010 after serving as interim Deputy Superintendent since January 2010. During his tenure, the state has seen measurable improvements in student achievement, behavior, absenteeism, graduation rates and college-going rates, including unprecedented gains on the National Assessment of Educational Progress. Under the direction of Matayoshi, he has led the charge in aligning school, complex, state and national efforts to systemically improve student learning, including development of the Academic Leadership Team; establishment of the Teacher Leader Workgroup and Deputy’s Principal Roundtable to ensure face-to-face input and feedback in making adjustments for better outcomes; leading the Zones of School Innovation in collaboration with CASs and Principals of the Zones’ schools; overseeing development, implementation and monitoring of the Strategic Plan, Race to the Top, Elementary and Secondary Education Act Waiver and Strive HI system; development and implementation of the Complex Area Support Team structure and routines; improving the relationship with U.S. Pacific Command and the military to one that is more engaged; and partnering with Hawai`i State Teachers Association on the Joint Committee to improve the Educator Effectiveness System.
“At the heart of any real change and improvement are deeply committed and selfless people who are willing to put the cause – in our case, kids – before their individual needs or wants,” Nozoe said. “By increasing the number and quality of measures of success, we are now able to recognize excellence and progress in more schools and more people which helps to highlight the valiant efforts happening statewide.”
Sen. Mazie Hirono congratulated Nozoe on his appointment. “Ronn has been a great asset in our state and served our students and educators well. I know he’ll be a wonderful leader in the U.S. Department of Education, implementing policies that will help students be successful nationwide,” Hirono said.
The USDOE Office of Elementary and Secondary Education is responsible for ensuring access and excellence in learning between federal, state, and local educational agencies.

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Sen. Brian Schatz

THE U.S. SENATE HAS PASSED the Schatz-Murray-Shaheen Amendment #1063 which would establish a deficit-neutral reserve fund for legislation to ensure all legally married spouses have access to Social Security and VA benefits their family has earned, including all same-sex couples.
Sen. Brian Schatz, who co-authored the bill, said, “Gay couples legally married in any state should be entitled to veterans and Social Security benefits identical to any other married couples… . Eleven Republicans joined Democrats in recognizing that gay couples deserve equal treatment, regardless of where they live. We still have work to do to, but this is progress and a win for equal rights. I thank Sen. Murray and Sen. Shaheen for their leadership on this important issue.”

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KA`U RESIDENTS CAN HELP PROTECT the native Hawaiian rainforest at the summit of KIlauea by volunteering for Stewardship at the Summit programs in Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park now through June.
Stewardship at the Summit begins at 9 a.m. and ends at noon. The dates from April through June are: April 2, 11, 17, and 24; May 1, 8, 20 and 30; and June 5, 13, and 19.
Volunteers help remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native species from growing. Meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kilauea Visitor Center at 9 a.m. on any of the above dates. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring a hat, raingear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools are provided. No advance registration is required, and there is no cost to participate, but park entrance fees apply.
Volunteers have dedicated 4,271 hours of their time and have restored more than 25 acres of native rainforest within the park since 2012. Countless Himalayan ginger, faya, strawberry guava and other invasive, non-native plants that threaten the native understory near the summit of Kilauea volcano have been removed. In their place, once-shaded `ama`u and hapu`u tree ferns have re-emerged, and pa`iniu, kawa`u and other important native plants are returning to the stewardship plots.
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Ka`u Farm Bureau President Ralph Gaston

KA`U FARM BUREAU MEETS today at 6 p.m. at Pahala Community Center. Election of officers is on the agenda, along with a guest speaker. For more information, email ralph@rustyshawaiian.com.

PAHALA-KA`U ALUMNI REUNION organizers remind classmates to sign up for the event. Dates are June 19, 20 and 21 at Las Vegas’ California Hotels & Casinos. Rooms must be reserved no later than May 17 for special rates at 800-634-6255. Group code is ASFPAHA.

“Let’s make this year’s reunion another memorable year,” said organizer Priscilla Obado. For more information, call Obado at 225-9173.

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

See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_March2015.pdf.

See kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.pdf and
kaucalendar.com/Directory2015.swf.

Aloha Bluegrass Band, with Keoki Kahumoku and friends, will raise money for children's education workshops with a concert at Na`alehu Methodist Church on Sunday, March 22. Photo by Julia Neal

BRAD HIRATA IS LEAVING KA`U HOSPITAL to become Food Services Manager at Kealakehe High School. “He is very private and doesn’t want any fanfare at the hospital,” said hospital Administrator Merilyn Harris, “but we want to say how sad we are that he is leaving.”

“In the 11 plus years that he has been here, he has made such a difference,” Harris said. “He has made outstanding meals for our patients/residents and staff, but more than that, he has been a constant force for good – always wiling to go out of his way to help. He truly demonstrates the aloha spirit, and we’re all going to miss him.”

Brad Hirata Photo from Merilyn Harris

The hospital is looking for his replacement as Food Services Manager II. Required experience includes participation in menu planning, food and supply purchasing, quantity cooking, fiscal record keeping and supervision of kitchen assistants, including cooks. Experience in food service management may be gained in commercial ventures such as restaurants, hotels, airline food services, as well as schools, hospitals and correctional institutions.
Substitutions of training for experience are allowed. See hilomedicalcenter.org for more information.
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THE STATE SENATE ON WEDNESDAY at 10 a.m. takes up Gov. David Ige’s controversial nomination of Carleton Ching as head of the Department of Land & Natural Resources. In advance of the public hearing on Wednesday, the Senate asked Ching to answer questions and submit a resume to provide residents with information on his background.
Ching’s resume states that he is Vice President of Community and Government Relations for developer Castle & Cooke Hawai`i. Returning in 2003, he also was previously employed by Castle and Cooke in the real estate development section. He represents the company in various community, public and governmental strategic planning, policy and outreach covering issues related to areas of residential, commercial, agricultural, resort and renewable energy operations and developments on O`ahu, Lana`i and the Big Island.
Ige’s announcement of Ching’s appointment stated, “Stewardship of Hawai`i’s unique resources is one of the most critical tasks of the state government, and Carleton Ching has the heart, knowledge and skills to lead the Department of Land & Natural Resources. No one understands better the complex issues this department handles and how to balance the need of our environment and our residents.”

The Senate asked Ching to describe his experiences prior to his nomination where he dealt with any of the issues DLNR handles and how he balanced the needs of the environment and residents in each of those experiences.
“Heading the community and government relations for Castle & Cooke has provided me exposure to and familiarity with a range of land management and stewardship responsibilities and issues,” Ching responded. “Castle & Cooke and its sister Company Dole Foods Hawai`i are not just developers, since only a relatively small portion of their landholdings are held for development. Castle & Cooke and Dole landholdings (until recently) have included over 88,000 acres of land on Lana`i, most of which is conservation and agricultural land, and large agricultural and conservation acreage on O`ahu.”

Ching listed many land management programs he has been involved in, including critical habitat areas established on Lana`i, water resource and game management, conservation easements, watersheds, wind and solar farms, leasing of ag lands and designating acreage as Important Agriculture Lands.
“These experiences provide a baseline of land stewardship practices, issues, public policy, community engagement, understanding, legislative process and management,” Ching said. “This perspective will assist me in the much bigger scope and responsibilities of DLNR’s mission.”
Ching’s resume and answers to more questions are available at capitol.hawaii.gov.
The public can also provide testimony on GM 514 before 10 a.m. tomorrow to be included in Wednesday’s hearing.
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Jodi Leong

GOV. DAVID IGE HAS ANNOUNCED members of his communications team. Ige tapped former television anchor/reporter Jodi Leong to be his Press Secretary and Deputy Director of Communications.

Yasmin

Leong has served as Director of Communications at University of Hawai`i since 2012. Prior to that, she spent 21 years in local television news starting at KITV in 1991 as a producer, reporter and weekend co-anchor. In 2000, Leong moved to KHNL where she was weeknight co-anchor. She returned to KITV in 2006 as a reporter and later helped launch the inaugural weekend morning newscast.

Leong graduated from Castle High School before attending the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Amherst College and the University of Hawai`i, where she earned a B.A. degree in broadcast journalism and a minor in political science.

Yasmin Dar joins the communications team as the governor’s Digital Media Specialist. Yasmin spent the last six years in television news as an anchor, reporter and producer. She recently moved back from Eugene, Oregon where she anchored the evening news. Prior to that, Dar was KITV Morning Show’s traffic anchor and Social Media Reporter. Dar will design, develop and deploy a two-way environment online to connect the governor with his constituents.
Dar is a graduate of Aiea High School and University of Hawai`i at Manoa. She graduated with a B.A. in biology and an M.A. in Communications.
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Sen. Brian Schatz is calling for the FCC to maintain an open Internet.
Image from Office of Sen. Schatz

SEN. BRIAN SCHATZ CALLS FOR AN OPEN INTERNET in an article published by Huffington Post on why net neutrality is critical for innovation, economic and intellectual freedom and a thriving Internet. This month the Federal Communications Commission is poised to adopt rules to ensure that an open and robust Internet continues. Schatz believes these rules must contain three essential elements: no blocking, no throttling, and no paid prioritization.

“Why has the Internet worked so well? Because it’s a level playing field,” Schatz said. “Everyone has an equal opportunity to compete, to succeed or to fail, to put one’s best ideas or products forward and let the chips fall where they may.
“Through a free and open Internet, an excellent idea or an individual can beat a powerful established institution. A scrappy student can challenge the status quo and come up with an innovation to change the world. Almost any citizen with an Internet connection can be heard across the globe and drive millions toward change.

“But we need rules to make sure that in the battle of content – of music, of ideas, of games, of apps, whatever – it is a fair fight, and that winners and losers are determined by the quality of the content and nothing else… .

“But without clear net-neutrality protections, companies could alter their incentives and business practices. In order to maximize their bottom line, providers may give preference to Internet traffic from companies willing to pay more for faster delivery. Internet Service Providers would be able to charge Internet companies for better, faster access and impede others.”
See schatz.senate.gov.
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THE NEW KA`U ALOHA FORUM IS HOSTING its second event this year in less than two weeks. Featuring Keoki Kahumoku and the Aloha Bluegrass Band, it will be held at Na`alehu Methodist Church Sunday, March 22, with pupus at 5 p.m. Program is from 6:15 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
All proceeds are being donated to the Center for Hawaiian Music Studies. Suggested donation for tickets is $20, and seating is limited. One lucky ticket will win a brand new `ukulele.
Tickets are available at Ka`u Realty in Na`alehu and Pahala Plantation Cottages Office in Pahala. Make checks payable to Center for Hawaiian Music Studies and mail to Woodley White at PO Box 44, Na`alehu, 96772 or RSVP to Woodley@easystreet.net or 854-9483.

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

Protection and enhancement of natural and cultural resources is one of the intentions of the Ka`u Community Development Plan. The draft CDP is now available for public review. Photo from The Ka`u Calendar

THE DRAFT KA`U COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN is now available for public review by community members and other stakeholders. The draft includes revisions recommended by Ka`u CDP Steering Committee.
“None of the CDP strategies are set in stone,” said project planner Ron Whitmore. Comments and feedback are welcome through June 1.

Informal drop-in listening sessions called speak-outs are scheduled throughout the district. They are organized as open houses where residents can find visual displays about parts of the CDP they are interested in, discuss CDP strategies with people familiar with the plan and provide feedback. Listeners and recorders will be on hand to document comments. There will not be any presentations or formal testimony at the speak-outs.
Four identical speak-outs are scheduled. Two on Saturday, April 11 are from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Na`alehu Community Center and from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Ocean View Community Center. On Sunday, April 19, residents can attend from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Pahala Community Center and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Discovery Harbour Community Center.
Residents can also submit feedback online or in writing by email, fax, or mail.
For community organizations wishing to offer feedback, Whitmore suggests having comments officially recorded in meeting minutes and submitted in writing to Ka`u CDP Steering Committee, c/o Planning Department, 101 Pauahi Street, Suite 3, Hilo, HI 96720.

According to Whitmore, the CDP is intended to direct future conservation and development patterns; protect and enhance natural and cultural resources; strengthen infrastructure, facilities and services; and build a resilient, sustainable local economy. The CDP will become a county policy document when adopted by County Council. It also guides state and federal agencies as well as community-based action.
Copies are available at www.kaucdp.info, with review reference copies at local libraries and community centers as well as the Hilo and Kona Planning Department offices. Two versions of the CDP are available: a shorter “clean” copy and a longer version that includes brief explanations for each CDP strategy. The CDP includes an executive summary and a more detailed introductory section.
The CDP Planning Team is available to discuss specific topics or sections of the document. On May 9 at Nāʻālehu Community Center, discussions will focus on agriculture at 9 a.m. and coastal management at 1 p.m. Contact Whitmore to schedule a discussion about another topic at 961-8137 or ron.whitmore@hawaiicounty.gov.
The Steering Committee will review all feedback and make final decisions about revisions before recommending that the county adopt the CDP. As always, committee meetings are open to the community, and public testimony on agenda items is welcome.
Whitmore said he, Steering Committee members and Community Planning Assistant Nālani Parlin are happy to answer any questions. Contact information is available at www.kaucdp.info.

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KA`U FARM BUREAU elected new officers last night. The new President, succeeding Ralph Gaston, is Brenda Iokepa Moses, of Ka`u Coffee Mill. Vice President is Phil Becker, of Aikane Plantation Coffee. Treasurer is Michelle Galimba, of Kuahiwi Ranch, and Secretary is LAyla Abellera, of Kehau’s Coffee Co. Board members are Jeff McCall, Lorie Obra and Ralph Gaston. Also attending were Mac Farms of Hawai`i manager Dan Springer and Sue Springer, coffee farmers Leonardo and Joseph Castaneda and `Ua Galimba, of Kuahiwi Ranch.
Gaston said his main focus during his presidency was fighting the coffee berry borer. He said the organization needs more members to carry out its programs and encouraged all farmers to join.

Brenda Iokepa Moses is now President
of Ka`u Farm Bureau.

The new president Iokepe Moses began working with Ka`u Coffee farmers in 1994 when she assisted Ka`u Sugar Co. in placing displaced sugar workers on agricultural plots to grow coffee as the sugar industry was shutting down in Ka`u. She has worked for C. Brewer, Ka`u Farm & Ranch, Olson Trust and currently Ka`u Coffee Mill. She is president of Hawai`i Association of Conservation Districts, chair of Ka`u Soil & Water Conservation and board member for the county water department and Ka`u Coffee Festival. She is a retired member of the U.S Army Reserves and is married to Ka`u firefighter Jack Moses, with three children, living in Pahala.
Founding Ka`u Farm Bureau President Chris Manfredi, now statewide president, reviewed legislation of interest to agriculture that is making its way or has failed at the state Legislature.
He said the Farm Bureau aims to strengthen existing Future Farmers of America programs and dormant ones like the one in Ka`u. He said the Farm Bureau has been lobbying for a pilot program on the Big Island that would put a special investigator assigned to agriculture in the prosecutor’s office. ‘Folks invest everything into a crop, and to have someone come and take it from you is not right,” said Manfredi.
He talked about land exchanges to protect ag land and mentioned a possible swap on O`ahu where the state would exchange developable land for good farm land. He said that state money for Ka`u irrigation projects is still in the pipeline.
A proposal to put an expert in the state ag department to deal with coffee berry borers did not advance in the Legislature, Manfredi reported; nor did a bill dealing with permitting to help farmers markets.
Manfredi warned of the U.S. Department of Agriculture drafting new regulations for which it will be expensive for the ag industry to comply. He said that if the state Department of Agriculture could adopt best practices for agriculture, there could be some exemptions and possibly lower costs for compliances and lower regulatory costs.
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Jim Robo

THE FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION has given its approval to the proposed merger of Hawaiian Electric Industries and NextEra Energy that was announced in December.
“Approval by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission represents a significant step toward the completion of our merger,” said Jim Robo, chairman and chief executive officer of NextEra Energy. “Through our partnership, we will apply our combined expertise and resources to deliver significant savings and value to Hawaiian Electric customers. We will continue to work closely with our partners at Hawaiian Electric in pursuing the remaining necessary approvals to complete the merger and begin to deliver the more affordable clean energy future we all want for Hawai`i.”
Connie Lau, HEI’s president and chief executive officer and chairman of the boards of American Savings and Hawaiian Electric, said “We are pleased with this substantial progress on our proposed merger. Hawaiian Electric is gaining a partner that is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun, with a commitment to supporting rooftop solar in Hawai`i and a proven track record of lowering electric bills. This approval provides further momentum toward ultimately delivering that substantial value to our customers and communities.”
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A REQUEST BY PARTIES EXAMINING the proposed merger of Hawaiian Electric Co. and NextEra Energy for an extension of time should be rejected, the utilities stated in a memorandum to the state Public Utilities Commission.

Ulupono Initiative, Hawai`i Gas, Paniolo Power Company, AES Hawai`i, SunEdison, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 1260, Hawai`i Renewable Energy Alliance and the state Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism had asked that the deadline to complete all discovery and file all testimony be changed from Aug. 31 to Oct. 30.
According to the utilities, “If granted, the Motion for Reconsideration will unduly delay this proceeding. The Commission would be unable to review and complete its decision-making on the application in a 'just, speedy and inexpensive' manner, consistent with the purpose of its rules.”
The utilities also noted that the motion “was untimely filed four days after the ten-day period for filing such motions for reconsideration expired.”
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USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT, in partnership with the County of Hawai`i, is hosting an energy workshop for East Hawai`i tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Office of Aging's Resource Center, 1055 Kino`ole Street in Hilo. The primary focus of this workshop is to notify rural small businesses and agricultural producers of renewable energy loan and grant opportunities and to review new application requirements. Topics to be covered include eligibility requirements, application information and tips for submitting a better proposal. Interested businesses and farmers/ranchers are welcome to attend. This program does not allow residential use. T
More information on the Rural Energy for America Program can be found at http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/rural-energy-america-program-renewable-energy-systems-energy-efficiency.

For an accurate count on handouts, RSVP to Lori Nekoba, Business Programs Specialist at 933-8312 or lori.nekoba@hi.usda.gov.

HO`OMALU KA`U HOLDS A DINNER DANCE, Spice Up Your Spring, on Sunday, April 12 at Discovery Harbour Community Center from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The organization is raising funds to build a Ka`u Heritage Center on property in Manuka.
“Come join us for a sumptuous spread of spicy and saucy Asian, Mexican and American foods, dance to the music of Full Tilt, the best dance band in Ka`u, drink beer and wine by donation, and enter your name in our lucky number drawing for great door prizes,” said Lehua Lopez. Tickets are $20 each.
Buy tickets by calling 929-8526, or see Lopez at Na`alehu Farmers Market tomorrow and on Wednesday, April 8.

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