The Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs, Hawaiʻi Island

Teachers rallied at the Capitol for better education., and will vote on their union contract Thursday.
Photo from HSTA

THE BARGAINING UNION FOR HAWAI`I PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS, after nine months of negotiations, has reached a tentative agreement with the state of Hawai`i for a 13.6 percent pay increase in a four-year contract from July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2021. The pay hike is aimed at keeping teachers in the Hawaiian Islands where the cost of living is one of the highest in the country, but the teacher pay is lower than in other expensive places to live.
The teachers' union, the Hawai`i State Teachers Association, made the announcement today following the Negotiations Committee meeting on Saturday and the HSTA Board of Directors' unanimous acceptance of the proposal.
A contract ratification vote is set for this Thursday, April 27. Teachers from Ka`u High and Pahala Elementary, Ka`u Learning Academy, Na`alehu Elementary and Intermediate and Volcano School of the Arts & Sciences will vote at the Ka`u High Band Room from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Ka`u teachers held signs on the March 7 Day of Action, along
with teachers outside schools around the state.
Photo by David Berry

Informational meetings to brief teachers on the settlement and answer questions began around the state today. The Ka`u meeting is set for Wednesday at the Ka`u High Band Room from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
In a statement, the HSTA describes the tentative agreement as "a win for teachers." Over a four-year period, it would provide for "pay raises through across-the-board salary increases, step movements and bonuses for teachers at Step 14B. The increases will be equivalent to a compounded 13.6 percent raise over that four-year period." In addition, the state has agreed to provide more money toward teachers’ health premiums.
The agreement also includes language about one of the major negotiations sticking points — teacher evaluations. For the next two years, the great majority of tenured members will go through the streamlined evaluation process while the Joint Committee works to change and improve evaluation, HSTA reported.
Other highlights, according to HSTA, include improvements to the assignment and transfers process, the establishment of a committee to address our English language learners and the continuation of the 21 professional development hours with pay and credits. The agreement allows HSTA to renegotiate health plan contributions and 21 hours in years three and four.

Ka`u teachers joined Hilo teachers earlier this year to strategize their
new contract with the State of Hawai`i.
Photo from HSTA

The Negotiations Team is comprised of HSTA President Corey Rosenlee, Paul Daugherty and Shannon Kaa`a, under the leadership of Chair Osa Tui and Vice Chair Diane Mokuau.
The HSTA statement said, "The team rolled with the punches and continued to come up with innovative ways to get the best deal possible for teachers within the confines of the state’s difficult fiscal situation. Our Chief Negotiator Andrea Eshelman has kept us on track and provided positive, excellent leadership, even when things looked grim."
HSTA also thanked Gov. David Ige "for personally getting deeply involved in our negotiations. We send a heart-felt mahalo to the governor and his chief of staff, Mike McCartney, who spent hours and hours at HSTA during bargaining sessions over the last three days, sometimes coming back twice in the same day and staying past midnight.

"But most important, we’d like to thank every teacher who took the time to speak up and speak out at rallies, on petitions, in testimony, emails, letters and phone calls over the last few months. Your collective voice was heard loud and clear.:" HSTA President Corey Rosenlee said, “Thank you for standing up for public education and the schools our keiki deserve. The collective action taken by teachers this school year played a major role in helping us to reach this tentative agreement that serves the best interests of teachers and students.”

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SUPPORTING HAWAI`I'S PUBLIC SCHOOLS THROUGH A NEW VISITOR TAX on accommodations failed at the 2017 Hawai`i Legislature last week when House and Senate negotiators could not reach agreement. HSTA President Corey Rosenlee said that nearly 4,000

HSTA President Corey Rosenlee (center) joined
numerous citizens groups supporting public school
initiatives at the legislature. He supported a new visitor
tax to help pay for better schools.
Photo from HSTA

testimonials, a thousand emails and a successful lobby day contributed to a nearly successful effort to place a Hawai`i Constitutional Amendment on the ballot next election.
Some legislators said that the ongoing taxation for the rail project on O`ahu makes it difficult to add another tax. Others said it could be challenged in court.
The HSTA president said, "A few lawmakers decided not to give the public a chance to vote on whether they want to fund the schools our keiki deserve, even though our polling shows that two-thirds of the voters would have supported this Constitutional Amendment.
“The last two years have shown that legislators will not vote to increase funding for our schools, nor will they allow the public to vote. Our legislators must make education a priority. If they did not support the Constitutional Amendment, what are their solutions to our chronically underfunded public school system?” Rosenlee said, “Our keiki can’t wait any longer.”

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A BRIGHT SMILES AWARD has gone to Ka`u Rural Health Community Association and its founder Jessie Marques. A project of the Hawai`i Public Health Association, it is supported by the DentaQuest Foundation’s Oral Health 2020 Initiative.

The award to Ka`u is one of four Bright Smiles Hawai`i Community Innovation Awards in oral health outreach, education, and information-gathering provided to Hawai`i communities at-risk for poor oral health.

Ka`u Rural Health Community
Association won a Bright Smiles
award to help improve oral health.
Photo from KRHCA

The purpose is to encourage and incentivize more direct interest from at-risk communities, increase community engagement, motivate change, as well as identify disparities and effectively address them in meaningful ways, with tangible results. The awards range from $2,300 to $5,000 per project. They focus on ethnic, geographic, and population-specific partners to share their knowledge regarding innovative and successful approaches to engage their own respective communities. BSH supports community efforts to identify root causes of their oral health disparities and help lead efforts to develop innovative and community-supportive responses to address the social determinants of oral health.
Bright Smiles Ka’u, sponsored by the Ka’u Rural Health Community Association and its executive director Jessie Marques, will provide community outreach on oral health via a series of community fairs and also survey Ka’u residents about oral health disparities.

Ka`u Rural Health Community Association also operates a telemedicine kiosk at its location near Pahala Library.

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Kīlauea’s Summit Eruption: Nine Years and Counting, Tue, April 25, 7 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist Matt Patrick presents an update and overview, including stunning imagery. Free; park entrance fees apply.

Ka‘ū Food Pantry, Tue, April 25, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., St. Jude’s Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

THE KA`U COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN goes to a public Steering Committee meeting this coming Tuesday, April 25, at Na`alehu Community Center, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The Windward Planning commission will hold a Ka`u CDP public hearing on Wednesday, May 10 at 5:30 p.m. at Na`alehu Community Center and Thursday, June 1 at 9 a.m. at the County of Hawai`i Aupuni Center Conference Room in Hilo. Following the Windward Planning Commission making recommendations, the County Council will hold Ka`u CDP public hearings and take action. With approval, Mayor Harry Kim will sign the Ka`u CDP into law and an Action Committee will be appointed to guide the Ka`u CDP implementation. The Draft Ka`u CDP and the Planning Director's "non-substantive revisions" are available at the site: www.kaucdep.info.

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Pahala Equestiran Lorilee Lorenzo is back to her Pahala home after riding in the Merrrie Monarch
Parade in Hilo over the weekend. She was joined by youth members of the Hawai`i Horse
Owners Association: Lorenzo, Grace Andrade, Jensten Andrade, Blayk Hanoa and Kassey Hanoa.

A NEW HELE-ON BUS TEMPORARY CHIEF has been named by Mayor Harry Kim. Curtis Sharp, a retired marine who served in Abu Dhabi and other far away places, takes the post on May 1. The post is temporary and called Mass Transit Analyst. Applications to fill the top administration post, called Mass Transit Administrator, will be posted soon.

The Hele-On Bus system operated by County of Hawai`i is getting a
temporary leader and some hands on involvement from
Mayor Harry Kim to improve it. Photo from Hele-On Bus

An outside consulting company has put people on the buses around the island to evaluate the service and survey the needs of the communities. Mayor Harry Kim told an audience at his talk story in Ocean View in February that the Hele-On system "is a disaster." He told West Hawai`i Today on Monday that he seeks to upgrade the service and that current Transit Administrator Tiffany Kai is stepping down to the position of para-transit coordinator.

The Hele-On runs at a loss, according to the story by Nancy Cook Lauer. The report in Tuesday's West Hawai`i Today states that the average ride costs the county about $11.77 a passenger. Passengers pay $1 to $2 per ride. About ten percent of the funding comes from federal money. Bus fares add up to less than $1 million and the annual budget is around $13.8 million.

Trouble with the Hele-On includes many broken down buses, though five used ones will soon be shipped over from the Honolulu public bus system, reports West Hawai`i Today. The local bus shortage, with a little over half of the 55 buses working, has led to late arrivals at bus stops and routes sometimes cancelled.

The Vision Statement of the Hele-On is to “Create a transportation agency the rest of the world recognizes as the best.” Its Mission Statement is to: “Provide safe, clean, convenient transportation services for the residents and visitors to the County of Hawai‘i."

For Ka`u, Hele-On provides a lifeline for workers to reach the resorts in Hilo, Kona and Kohala and for college students to reach Kona and Hilo. It also provides after school buses for students so they can participate in sports and other activities. Many senior citizens also ride the bus for doctors appointments and to shop. The fare for the general public is $2. Seniors, students through college and the disabled pay $1.

See more at www.westhawaiitoday.com

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A NEW HEALTH INSURANCE PROPOSAL IN CONGRESS is drawing opposition from Sen. Brian Schatz. The amendment would allow states to allow insurance companies to charge a higher premium to those with preexisting conditions. According to a retweet from Shatz, the first health care bill this congressional session considered would have resulted in 24 million people losing coverage, a Medicaid cut of $880 billion and a tax cut for millionaires. The newest bill would do the same plus gut the rules that prevent those with preexisting conditions from being charged more. In addition, Pres. Donald Trump has threatened to hold back federal subsidies to insurance companies that serve low income people if the companies don't go along with his health care proposals. "Trump's threat of sabotage will increase premiums an additional 20 percent," says the American Academy of Actuaries, whose statement is retweeted by Schatz.

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COFFEE WITH A COP has been announced for Wednesday, May 10 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Everyone is invited to the casual, no-agenda, talk-story opportunity to meet local police officers. It will take place at Na`alehu Ace Hardware. May 10 is National Coffee With a Cop Day.

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Weave Ulana Niu, Wed, April 26, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Learn how to weave coconut fronds into useful and beautiful items. Free, park entrance fees apply.

Hawai‘i’s Reef Fish, Thu, April 27, 7 – 9 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. John Hoover explains how fish take care of their food, security & reproductive needs. Free; donations accepted.

Coffee Talk, Fri, April 28, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. A free monthly series of talks on various subjects. nps.gov/havo or 985-6011

Ocean View Community Development Corp. meeting, Fri, April 28, 5 p.m., Hawaiian Ranchos office.

Fighting to the end with Trevor Taylor ripping 17 kills, Ka`u Trojans ended their boys volleyball season
Tuesday night in a playoff game against Pahoa, after a stellar winning season with only one other loss.
See story below. Photo by Pam Taylor

DISCOVERY HARBOUR RESIDENTS attended the Ka`u Community Development Plan Steering Committee Tuesday night at Na`alehu Community Center to talk about the future of their neighborhood. A large contingent asked questions regarding the CDP’s language regarding possible development there. Some residents said they favored low-density zoning, which allows up to six homes per acre. Others would like to see other types of development, including condominiums and shopping centers. Ron Whitmore, who worked as a county planner on the CDP, explained that there are many complications in Discovery Harbour’s zoning as it relates to the subdivision’s Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions that are beyond the scope of the CDP. He said current lawsuits would have to settle some of the disputes.

Ron Whitmore, who worked for many years on the Ka`u Community
Development Plan, presented Planning Director Michael Yee's
recommendation to approve the Ka`u Community Development Plan.
Photo by Ron Johnson

The Steering Committee discussed Hawai`i County Planning Director Michael Yee's recommendation to adopt the Ka`u Community Development Plan, with some non-substantive changes. According to Whitmore, the director’s recommended changes to the CDP “strengthened it by refining it.” He said Kanuha “wanted the language to be precise.” Many of the director’s changes clarify the CDP’s purpose relative to Hawai`i County’s General Plan. Language in the CDP calls for specific amendments to the GP, and Kanuha specified that such amendments be considered “as a follow-up to the CDP.”
One example of a non-substantive change by Yee was to clarify that suggested safety improvements on South Point Road apply to the section from Hwy 11 to Kama`oa Road.

With the changes accepted, the document next goes to the Windward Planning Commission for review. The commission will hold two public hearings on the topic, with the first one on Wednesday, May 10 at 5:30 p.m. at Na`alehu Community Center. Another hearing is scheduled for Thursday, June 1 at 9 a.m. at Aupuni Center Conference Room in Hilo. Following approval by the commission, the County Council will review the plan and accept public input before deciding whether or not to send it to Mayor Harry Kim for his signature. Whitmore said the process could be complete by the end of the year.

Discovery Harbour residents talked about different
plans for their community.
Photo by Ron Johnson

New County Planning
Director Michael Yee

Whitmore urged Ka`u residents to apply to become members of the CDP Action Committee, which succeeds the Steering Committee as a proactive, community-based steward of the CDP’s implementation. Members are appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the County Council. Applications are available at www.hawaiicountycdp.info/about-cdps/.

See kaucdp.info for complete information about the Ka`u CDP.

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NORTH KOREA IS A THREAT TO HAWAI`I, the Commander of the U.S. Pacific Command stated in a U.S. House of Representatives Armed Services Committee hearing on Tuesday. Admiral Harry Harris Harris detailed potential vulnerabilities that exist within current U.S. missile defense capabilities that could put Hawaiʻi at risk.

Admiral Harry Harris recommended a study on basing missle
interceptors in Hawai`i.

When asked by Rep. Tulsi Gabbard about the threat of North Korea to Hawai`i specifically, Harris stated, “Kim Jong-un is clearly in a position to threaten Hawai’i today…Our ballistic missile architecture is sufficient to protect Hawaiʻi today, but it can be overwhelmed. If Kim Jong-un or someone else launched ballistic missiles—ICBMs—against the United States, then somewhere we would have to make the decision on which ones to take out or not. So that's a difficult decision. I think that we would be better served - my personal opinion is that we would be better served with a defensive Hawai`i radar and interceptors in Hawai`i. I know that its being discussed...we should study the basing of interceptors in Hawai`i."

The admiral said that defensive radar is coming to Hawai`i but "the interceptors piece is something to be determined....We would not be doing our job if we didn't look at it."

Following the hearing, Gabbard said, “Hawaiʻi is home to the largest concentration of U.S. military strategic assets for well over 3,000 miles, making it a prime target for North Korea’s aggression. As I travelled across Hawai’i during my recent state-wide town hall tour, I heard from my constituents on every island their concern about the threat posed by North Korea’s increased nuclear and ballistic missile activity and capabilities that place Hawaiʻi squarely within North Korea's crosshairs.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard urged more anti-missile defense for Hawai`i.

"It is the people of Hawaiʻi and our way of life that are at risk if North Korea’s missiles turn towards our shores. Admiral Harris’ testimony today affirmed the seriousness of this threat, and highlighted the need to strengthen our current missile defense infrastructure to ensure the defense of Hawai'i. I'm continuing this urgent push to strengthen the protection of Hawaiʻi against the threat that exists today, and the complex threat we know will emerge in the future. I urge my colleagues to take this threat seriously and provide the resources and tools necessary to defend Hawaiʻi against this threat.”

In a background statement, Gabbard' staff, said that missile defense has been one of her top priorities throughout her time in Congress. Last year, she passed two amendments in the National Defense Authorization Act—one to provide funding to begin the process of bringing an MRDR to Hawaiʻi, and the other to require the Missile Defense Agency to brief Congress on their short-term plan to enhance missile defense capabilities in Hawaiʻi and the Pacific—and also questioned then SECDEF Carter and Chairman for the Joint Chiefs of Staff about the need to increase Hawaiʻi’s missile defense. She has had ongoing conversations and meetings with the Missile Defense Agency Director, Vice Admiral James Syring, to discuss possible options for the defense of Hawaiʻi, to deal with short term and long term needs. This includes quickly deployable options that are available to further strengthen the existing defensive assets within the state.

See Video of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard’s questions to Admiral Harris.

Pete Dacallio achieved ten kills.
Photo by Pam Taylor

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VISITOR APPRECIATION DAY will be held at the Na`alehu and Pahala branches of CU Hawai`i Federal Credit Union on Friday. Members are invited to Member Appreciation Day to enter to win $200 in cash. Food, fun and giveaways will highlight the event. See more at www.cuhawaii.com.

KA`U HIGH BOYS VOLLEYBALL unexpectedly suffered an upset last night, ending their season in the playoffs when they lost to Pahoa High School. Despite Trevor Taylor ripping 17 kills, Pete Dacalio pounding 10 kills and Budd Flores nailing nine kills for the Trojans, Ka`u lost in the Big Island Interscholastic Federation first round of tournament playoffs. The scores were 25-21, 20-25, 22-25, 25-22 and 12-15 to give the win to Pahoa. The Trojans enjoyed winning all season with the exception of one loss before the playofff game with Pahoa.

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Hawai‘i’s Reef Fish, Thu, April 27, 7 – 9 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. John Hoover explains how fish take care of their food, security & reproductive needs. Free; donations accepted.

Coffee Talk, Fri, April 28, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. A free monthly series of talks on various subjects. nps.gov/havo or 985-6011

Ocean View Community Development Corp. meeting, Fri, April 28, 5 p.m., Hawaiian Ranchos office.

A LIDAR scan, taken inside a cave in Ocean View as a film is made to depict Mars.

KA`U HOSTS A FILM CREW, DEPICTS MARS: A voyage to Mars may be only a fanciful dream. But when the BBC asked leading planetary scientists: “If you could go to Mars, where would you go first?” Brent Garry, a NASA geologist, was quick to reply “a lava tube.” That was the answer that brought a five-person British film crew flying half way around the world to Ka`u to film Garry demonstrating what could be done in a Martian lava tube.
A Traveler’s Guide to Mars is the title of the TV show in the making. It will be part of the British Horizon series of documentaries, similar to the Nova series. Though mankind is no stranger to cave dwelling, and modern caving is a growing attraction among eco tourists, why go all the way to Mars to visit a lava tube?
“I see lava tubes as pristine labs and havens,” explained Garry, “as on earth, lava tubes are important building components of volcanic mountains, in that they move erupting lava away from the summit and enable huge, shield-shaped mountains to grow on Mars, Venus and Earth. When I am in a lava tube on earth, I can learn a lot about the lava that was a component of the flow that created the tube. There is a lot of evidence. It’s like a snapshot of a bygone time.

NASA geologist, Brent Garry (yellow safety

vest) explains the tripod-mounted LIDAR to

Ocean View caver Ann Bosted. To the left

is BBC cameraman Andrew Fleming. Next

to him is crew director Toby Macdonald.

To the right is Varaha Johnson of Hilo in

orange. Photo by Norman R. Thompson

“On Mars, lava tubes would be the only place to see pristine geology. The surface is covered by dust and has been impacted by craters and subjected to extreme heat and cold daily. We have known about lava tubes on Mars since the 1970’s since we were able to photograph long lines of deep pits, that could only have been made by underground collapses,” explained Garry. “We have satellites orbiting Mars with fantastic camera resolution and remote sensing data. We can see into these collapse pits and see piles of rubble up to 40 feet tall in the bottom of the pit. This likely means that the lava tube has a roof of about 40 feet thick. When the roof collapsed, it created a skylight. I find these skylights very intriguing – they are windows into the subsurface of Mars. I want to go into them, but since I can’t, I’d like to see robots go in.”
Spelunking robots present enormous engineering challenges, over and above the usual problems of operating machinery on another planet. The robot would have to be as autonomous as possible and able to self-navigate. There would have to be a line of sight between the robot and a surface station, so that signals could be transmitted to an orbiting satellite and thence to earth. In a lava tube the robot would be unable to get energy from the sun to recharge its batteries. Gravity on Mars is 38 percent that of Earth’s, allowing Martian lava tubes to be much larger – probably hundreds of miles long and hundreds of feet wide.
But the problems of putting a self-guiding, cave-exploring robot on Mars, pale in comparison with landing a human mission on the Red Planet. The atmosphere is about 100 times thinner than the Earth’s, so human visitors would need to bring their own oxygen. Then there is the intense ultra violet radiation and the temperature swings from 70 degrees F to -100 degrees at night. Lava tubes would protect humans from these hazards, as well as dust storms. So, the obvious question is, if humans could live in Martian lava tubes, what else can?

The camera rolls as NASA scientist, Brent Garry,

makes sweeping arm gestures as he explains

how lava tubes on Mauna Loa may resemble those

on Mars. Back left, researcher Euan Smith

holds the lights, Andrew Fleming runs the camera.

Director Toby MacDonald stands behind tripod-

mounted LIDAR. Photo by Norman R. Thompson

“A lot of science could be done in a Martian lava tube,” explained Garry. “You could send in scientists from different disciplines – geology, chemistry, biology – and they would each come away with a different story”.
The story that the BBC film crew wanted to leave Hawai`i with, was that of a fictional tour guide, Garry, leading his imaginary tour group, the TV audience, into and through a real lava tube in Ocean View. They chose a privately owned cave entrance with a skylight, and filmed Garry entering it via a steep, rubble-filled slope, climbing up and over boulder piles with his 50 pounds of gear, and eventually setting up the high tech equipment that is able to document even the most complex cave passage in an instant – a Light Detection and Ranging imager.
A LIDAR imager is set up on a very sturdy tripod and then slowly rotates the imaging sensors in every direction as invisible beams of light are played on the surfaces and bounce back with the information from countless data points in rapid succession.
“LIDAR records the big dimensions as well as the finest details. We can set up the LIDAR at various locations through the lava tube and then ‘stitch’ the images together to get a continuous image of the tube – it can make the viewers feel like they are flying through the three-dimensional cave. It is very realistic. I could see a LIDAR mounted on a robot, slowly going through a Martian lava tube and recording every detail – large and small – and then transmitting the images back to earth. It would be the next best thing to being there in person,” Garry enthused. “LIDAR is fast, accurate, and can capture data in every direction, including up and down.”
Garry has been mapping lava tubes on three of Mar’s five biggest mountains, namely Ascraeus Mons, Arsia Mons and Pavonis Mons. Working with data from satellite images and other sources, he is able to create geologic maps showing volcanic flow features, including the location of lava tubes.
“Mauna Loa is dwarfed by the volcanoes on Mars,” explains Garry. “There the ‘hot spot’ is not moving, as it is relative to the land in Hawai`i. So lava can flow out of the same volcano indefinitely. There is no ocean to stop it, as we have in Hawai’i. This means that the lava tubes can go on and on for hundreds of miles. Documenting them, really makes me want to go and see for myself.”
The Director of A Traveler’s Guide to Mars, Toby MacDonald, who has been making science films for Horizons over the past seven years, said that it would be some months before the TV show would be complete.

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A LARGE DEMAND FOR WATER AND WEATHER have led the County of Hawai`i Department of Water supply to issue a Water Conservation Notice for Na`alehu, Wai`ohinu to South Point. Dry weather and demand are the reason the DWS is requestinng consumers in the affected areas to "reduce your daily water usage by 10 percent," says the notice. Suggested ways to conserve water to reach the 10 percent goal are to:

Water for agriculture and home use is tight in Na`alehu, Wai`ohinu and
South Point where residents are urged to conserve.
Photo by Julia Neal

Wash full loads of laundry only; wash full loads of dishes only; serve drinking water only when requested; do not let the faucet run unnecessarily; when bathing, use water only to wet and rinse off."

DWS also suggests: "Do not fill the bathtub; use a glass when brushing your teeth; do not flush toilets unnecessarily; stop lawn sprinkling; stop car and boat washing; stop dust control watering; and use drinking water wisely."

Department of Water Supply also notifies farmers and ranchers, saying: "All agricultural users should keep water usage to a minimum. Irrigate only at night from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. This measure will reduce water loss due to evaporation, and minimize water system usage during peak demand."

For more information, contact Department of Water Supply at 961-8790 between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

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Hawaiian coral reefs are abundant with sealife as shown here with Randy Kosaki.
Photo from NOAA

A CORAL REEF SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH INNOVATION ACT was introduced to the U.S. Congress in both Houses today by Sen. Mazie Hirono and Rep. Colleen Hanabus. In response to increasing threats to coral reef ecosystems such as climate change, pollution, and direct damage from humans, this legislation directs federal agencies to establish a competitive prize to catalyze creative solutions to mitigate the decline or degradation of coral reefs.

“As an island state, Hawai`i relies on healthy coral reef ecosystems to protect our communities from extreme weather events. These reefs are also home to marine life that feed our communities and support our local economy,” said Hirono. “By supporting innovative solutions to real-world issues, this bill creates an opportunity for individuals, government, and the private sector to partner together to protect our aquatic resources and coastal communities now and into the future. Collaborative, science-based partnerships are the kinds of efforts we need to address our common challenges, like climate change. Strong public support for this type of approach was on display last weekend, when people in Hawaii and across the country turned out to celebrate Earth Day by participating in the March for Science.”

Coral reefs in Hawai`i have a value of $34 billion annually,
Photo from NOAA

Hanabusa said, “As guardians of our planet, we cannot afford to look back and wonder why we did not take steps to prevent the total loss of our coral reef ecosystem when we had notice of its impending demise. The time for action is now. As a Congress, we must take the steps necessary to inspire big thinkers to come up with real solutions that will protect our planet’s coral reefs.”

In a joint statement, the two Hawai`i legislators said, "Threats to coral reef ecosystems due to climate change continue to increase. Just last week, atmospheric carbon dioxide levels at Mauna Loa Observatory reached record levels of 410 parts per million. At the same time, scientists are also continuing to understand the downstream implications of degraded coral ecosystems. Researchers with the U.S. Geological Survey last week published a study showing that the sea floor around degrading coral reefs is eroding, exposing coastal communities to harsher waves and deepening coastal waters. Out of the three locations studied, which included Maui, the Florida Keys, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the seafloor near Maui had suffered the most extreme erosion.

"Coral reefs in Hawai`i alone are worth $385 million per year to the local economy and provide a total net present value of $10 billion."

Aimed at fostering coral reef conservation and innovation research, this bill authorizes the 12 federal agencies on the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force to use existing cross-agency funding to carry out a competitive prize competition. Additionally, the legislation allows federal agencies to work with private entities to both fund and administer the prize competition.

University of Hawai`i and the Ocean Conservancy both sent in supportive testimony. “The University of Hawai`i is thankful for Senator Hirono and Representative Hanabusa proposing innovative legislation to advance coral reef conservation and protection. The people of Hawai`i, and the world-class faculty and students of UH, are recognized globally for their efforts to understand, conserve, and protect living reef resources throughout the Pacific. As ocean temperatures rise and the oceans become more acidic, the science and conservation communities are rapidly working to assess the impacts of a changing climate on future coral reef health.

The green sea turtle depends on coral reefs and Ocean Conservancy
is supporting legislation introduced today by Sen. Mazie Hirono
and Rep. Colleen Hanabusa to protect reefs.
Photo from Ocean Conservancy

"Utilizing the mechanisms proposed by Senator Hirono and Representative Hanabusa, we look forward to advancing new partnerships with government agencies, private industry, and the research community to advance the science and practice of coral reef conservation,” said Chris E. Ostrander, Assistant Dean of Strategic Initiatives & External Relations of the University of Hawai`i at Manoa’s School of Ocean & Earth Science & Technology.

Ocean Conservancy’s Ocean Acidification Program's directory Sarah Cooley, Ph.D., said that Hirono and Hanabusa "have taken an important step to safeguard coral reefs today, in recognition of how much coral reefs do to sustain coastal communities all around the United States. Rich coral ecosystems in both warm and cold water support thousands of fishing jobs every day and lure millions of visitors from around the world every year. Ocean acidification and warming profoundly threaten coral reefs and the coastal communities that depend on them. We are optimistic that the Coral Reef Sustainability Through Innovation Act will help bring together new creative partnerships dedicated to finding solutions for the threats coral reefs face.

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Coffee Talk, Fri, April 28, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. A free monthly series of talks on various subjects. nps.gov/havo or 985-6011

Ocean View Community Development Corp. meeting, Fri, April 28, 5 p.m., Hawaiian Ranchos of
Office.

Lands around Pohue Bay and its anchaline ponds, petroglyphs and other features have gone
on the real estate market for $18 million. It is also on the county's list for preservation.
Photo by Peter Bosted

POHUE BAY PROPERTY IS ON THE MARKET. With six miles of ocean frontage, it is listed for $18 million. Pohu`e Bay is a critical breeding ground for the endangered Hawksbill Turtle. The small, quintessential Hawaiian beach, with white sands, clear water and palm trees, is along the lava-covered 16,456-acre property, makai of Highway 11 between mile markers 72 and 76, and bordering on the Ranchos subdivision in Ocean View. According to the MLS listing, the property is “the largest privately owned parcel for sale in the state of Hawai`i.”

Pohue Bay. Photo by Megan Lamson\

An ancient Hawaiian foot trail traverses the property from Ranchos to Pohue Bay. By law, this mauka-makai route is always open to the public. A privately-owned 4WD road can be used, for a fee, by members of the public wanting to reach the beach.
Two large resort-type developments have been proposed for the property but never built.

In the mid-1980’s Charles Chidiac, a developer, proposed the Hawaiian Riviera Resort and marina, which would have cost about a billion dollars and included a regional airport, golf courses, five low-rise hotels, condominiums, villas, oceanfront estates and single family houses near Pohue Bay. In 1991, after two years of hearings, phase one of the Riviera was approved by the state Land Use Commission. By then, Chidiac had financial problems and sold the land to a partner in 1990 for $42.5 million. Chidiac accused the state in 1992 of seeking bribes from him, but the FBI dropped the corruption investigation for lack of evidence. Chidiac tried unsuccessfully to revive the Riviera project in 1995-96.

In 2004 the property sold for $6 million and in 2006 Nani Kahuku ‘Aina bought the land for $13 million. Representatives from the hui who came to Ka`u with their plan included Valentine Peroff, President, and his daughter, Katherine Peroff, Vice President of the group, both of Honolulu. The proposed resort would have included three coastal resort hotel complexes with up to 950 units, two 18-hole nearshore golf courses on 260 acres, 850 golf resort homes, an airport or helipad, up to 1,050 residential lots, 170 21- acre agricultural lots and land set aside for other uses.
There was also talk of NKA restoring the Na’alehu Theater and providing land for a veterans health center and school. NKA had hoped to start construction in 2015 and finish by 2027, but it encountered strong opposition from anti-development groups, especially in Miloli’i, and was put on hold by about 2010.
In 2012, then County Council member, Brittany Smart, proposed that the County purchase the NKA property using “the two per cent fund” raised from county property taxes.

Pohue Bay petroglyphs. Photo from County of Hawai`i

It is now number five on the County’s wish list of the top ten Big Island properties to be acquired and preserved as undeveloped open space. Many Ka’u residents have championed the property for public ownership, due to its pristine archeology sites, which were home to a large population of Hawaiians in pre-contact times.
Although the property has been offered for sale on a private web site, this month it was listed on the MLS. The property descriptions states: “Such a site affords multiple possibilities, eco-resort, ranch, private homes, commercial, recreational, mixed-use, with 8,250 acres zoned A-20 and another 8,205 acres zoned conservation.”
The description calls the property “a rare chance to own one of the most coveted areas on the Big Island, offering complete seclusion surrounded by expansive lava fields, an exquisite beach, abundant marine animals, and absolute proximity to the origins of life. While private and remote, there is access to all of the wonderful things that come with living in Hawai’i, including amazing resorts, top golf courses, water activities such as diving, and horseback riding.”
While the price tag is $18 million, the county’s assessed value is $10,231,500. The annual property tax is $99,893. The 16,000-acre property almost abuts the 3,000-acre property adjacent to Road to the Sea that Hawai`i County acquired in October 2016 for $2.6 million. At that time the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service contributed $1,214,000, the County added about $764,745 and Hawaii’s DLNR donated $621,245.

The most recently acquired Ka`u land cost the county $2.6 million for the 3,128 acres, resulting is a cost per acre of only $831. The asking price for Nani Kahuku Aina is $18 million for 16,456 acres, or $1,094 per acre.

Cliffs along the coast near Pohue Bay. Photo by Peter Bosted

Asked to comment on the property being offered for sale, state Representative Richard Creagan emailed The Ka’u Calendar: “In my view the owner of the property is getting a little tired waiting for the state or county or some trust to buy the whole parcel. I don’t blame him or her and I certainly support purchasing the area. In the mean time it seems like the Hawksbill turtle breeding sites have been protected. “I would support the county making it a higher priority,” he added.

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AREAS WITHIN LOCAL NATIONAL PARKS, including Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, which runs the entire coast of Ka`u, will experience limited closures for filming a series of documentaries on the parks themselves. A statement from the National Park Service says that "Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, and Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, are dedicated to the preservation, protection, and interpretation of traditional Native Hawaiian culture and natural resources."
Each 15-minute film is being produced, not just for domestic and international visitors, but also for the Hawaiian people. Each will be available for viewing in English and Native Hawaiian languages. The films will include Audio Description in both languages for visitors who are blind or have low vision, and on-screen Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in both languages for visitors who have hearing impairment.

Ala Kahakai Trail will be filmed in a series of National Park
documentaries. Photo by Peter Bosted

The stories of these sacred places are told through on-camera interviews with Hawaiian kūpuna, spiritual leaders and cultural practitioners. Also interviewed are Native Hawaiians who work at each park as interpreters, cultural experts, natural resource managers, and historians. All voices are woven into a “living” tapestry, revealing each park’s distinct story from a Native Hawaiian perspective. A common thread throughout is the spiritual relationship native Hawaiians have with their gods, their land, and one another. The films honor and celebrate the beauty and deep history of the Hawaiian people – past, present, and future – and the National Park Service sites that help preserve the legacy and spirit of sacred places.
Temporary Partial Closures during on-site filming will be May 2-3 at Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. On May 2, temporary partial closures will occur at Honokōhau Beach and ‘Ai‘ōpio Fishtra. On May 3, temporary partial closures will occur at Kaloko Fishpond and ‘Aimakapā Fishpond. Visitors will be welcome to silently observe from specific areas.
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park will experience some closures on May 4-5.
On May 4, temporary partial closures will occur at Royal Grounds, Pu‘uhonua and Coastal Trail
On May 5, temporary partial closures will occur at Hale o Keawe, Pu‘uhonua, Royal Gounds and Coastal Trail. Visitors will be welcome to silently observe from specific areas.

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Coffee Talk, Fri, April 28, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. A free monthly series of talks on various subjects. nps.gov/havo or 985-6011

Ocean View Community Development Corp. meeting, Fri, April 28, 5 p.m., Hawaiian Ranchos office.

Youth organizers and their mentors, including Ka`u High and Pahala Elementary School Principal Sharon Beck,
manned educational displays like the one for Big Island Substance Abuse Council at the Ka`u
Unity Celebration on Saturday. See story below. Photo by Julia Neal

A PEACE MOVEMENT is what U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard said she wants to see. In a statement issued on Saturday, entitled War and Peace, Gabbard, the member of Congress representing Ka`u, wrote:

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard in Big Island Town
Hall meeting in April.

"In the last few months, the thing I have found the most personally alarming, as a citizen and as a soldier, is the virtual evaporation of any movement or motion for peace in the United States. We have seen our new president dangerously escalate conflicts in North Korea and Syria with little or no regard for the consequences on the ground and for the inevitable blowback such actions have to our country. Even as he employs bigger and flashier weapons in an attempt to impress and intimidate, there is a disturbing lack of opposition to these reckless acts.

"Make no mistake, these interventions weaken us strategically and increase human misery, even when they are embarked on with humanitarian intent. There is no denying that the regime change wars in Iraq and Libya that were propagated as necessary to relieve human suffering have in fact increased human suffering in those countries -- many times over.

"As a direct result of our intervention in Iraq, the overthrow of Saddam Hussein, human suffering there has increased dramatically. Terrorist organizations such as ISIS and al-Qaeda took advantage of the Maliki Shia-led government that persecuted and oppressed the Sunni people. ISIS therefore gained a stronghold in Iraq, kidnapping, terrorizing, and killing thousands and thousands of innocent people.

Sophomore Helena Sesson shares hula at the
youth-organized Ka`u Unity Celebration.
Photo by Julia Neal

"In Libya, when the U.S. led the bombing campaign to overthrow Gaddafi, which began with a no-fly zone, the result was incredible loss of life, total chaos, with Libya resulting in a failed state, and a haven now for ISIS and other terrorist organizations. There is no reason to believe that escalating the regime change war in Syria or initiating military actions on the Korean peninsula will be any less disastrous.

"We can’t help anyone anywhere, try as we might, if we don’t have strict principles about when, where and why we intervene. We must have realistic appraisals and criteria of what conflict means in the regions where we initiate it and here at home. But we can’t start this conversation in a vacuum. With both parties on Capitol Hill intent on fanning the flames of war, will you join me in starting a nationwide conversation about the true costs of war?"

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KA`U YOUTH BROUGHT UNITY to a festival on Saturday. Organized by students of Ka`u High School and mentors from teachers to community organizers, the Ka`u Unity Celebration met with great success at the new Ka`u District Gym. Senior Chloe Gan, Junior Daryl Moreira and Sophomores Monique Hughes and Brennan Nishimura were the lead youth organizers.

They were inspired by the Good Life Alliance national movement and Alliance 98 represented by David Rojas. They formed a local organization called The Collective, with adult mentors Hawai`i Police Department’s Aron Tomota, Ka`u’s community policing officer; Nona Makuakane and Elijah Navarro, of Hawai`i County Parks & Recreation; Terry-Lee Shibuya of Big Island Substance Abuse Council; Dolly Kailiawa of Boys & Girls Club, and teachers Kevin Sun and Dexlyn Navarro. Catholic Charities of Hawai`i, O Ka`u Kakou and Imua Ka`u partnered with the youth.

They brought together numerous community groups and agencies, singers, bands, dancers and artists to put on a day of goodwill, fellowship, education and entertainment.

Ka`u High musicians were in the lineup for the
Unity Celebration. Photo by Julia Neal

Community advocates ranged from Habitat for Humanity, which would like to help with more home ownership in Ka`u; to Child & Family Services, which is looking to establish foster homes in Ka`u; to Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, which recently completed its ninth youth ranger training program with Ka`u High School youth; to Recycle Hawai`i, which provided hours of education on zero waste; and Ka`u Community Children’s Council, which works with Imua Ka`u.

One health organization taught children how to help their parents get healthier, noting a poll showing 46 percent of kids worry about their parents’ health and 69 percent would like parents to make changes to be healthier.

The new activity room at Ka`u District Gym was full of artwork from Ka`u and Volcano students.

After the Ka`u Unity Celebration, organizers said that next year they plan to invite more artists and crafters and to continue to leave the organizing, planning and execution to the responsible hands and creative minds of the youth.

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Hawai`i Coffee Association President Chris Manfredi,

Brandon von Damitz of Big Island Coffee Roasters,

Miguel Meza of Isla Coffees, Kelleigh Stewart of Big

Island Coffee Roasters and Juli Burden and Patrick Oiye

who are familiar faces behind the bar at the Ka’u Coffee

Experience, coming up on Saturday, May 27 at Pahala

Community Center.

KA`U COFFEE IS POPULAR AT SEATTLE GLOBAL EXPO: Ka`u Coffee farmers and brokers are back from the Specialty Coffee Association of America’s Global Expo in Seattle in April. This marks the tenth anniversary of Ka`u participating in the Expo, beginning with Chris Manfredi, now President of the Hawai`i Coffee Association, entering 15 local coffees in 2007 and coming home with a sixth and ninth place finish for Ka`u.

That accomplishment was followed by years of competition at SCAA. Ka`u Coffees continued to rank high in international competition. They were represented from Boston to Portland and Seattle at booths sponsored by the Hawai`i Coffee Association and Ka`u Coffee Mill, with local farmers, Hawaiian flowers, Ka`u Coffee, macadamia, live music and hula drawing in the tasters and buyers.
This year Ka`u Coffees were represented at the SCAA in the Hawai`i Coffee Association booth. Coffees served included those from Isla Custom Coffees, Ka`u Coffee Mill, Ka`u Local Products, Ka`u Specialty, Palehua Ka`u Farmers Cooperative, Rusty’s Hawaiian, and Silver Cloud Ka`u Coffee.
Said Manfredi, “All the coffees served in the HCA booth were evaluated by a cupping panel prior to the event to ensure Hawai`i is properly represented to the Specialty coffee community.
“Our booth featured a full service espresso bar and pouring stations that represented coffees and growing origins throughout the state. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive.” Also unveiled was the new Hawai`i Coffee Association logo.
The next celebration for local coffee and the community is the annual Ka`u Coffee Festival with events from May 13 – 28, with a full day Ho`olaulea at Pahala Community center on Saturday, May 27. See www.kaucoffeefest.com

A Hula Pele Workshop with Kumu Ab Valencia, begins on Tuesday, May 2 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Volcano Art Center. As King David Kalakaua said, “Hula is the language of the heart, therefore the heartbeat of the Hawaiian People.” The classes continue Tuesdays, May 9, 16, and 23. See www.volcanoartcenter.org.

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If the Ocean View Solar project is allowed to proceed, at least five solar installations, each covering more
than two acres, would be seen dotted among the sparsely separated homes in this photo. Homeowners
count the sweeping ocean vistas and open ranch-like atmosphere among the attractions of this rural
residential subdivision. Photo by Ann Bosted

AN ATTEMPT BY A SOLAR DEVELOPER to convince a few Ocean View residents that a highly unpopular industrial-scale solar proposal could be mitigated met with minimal success during a recent meeting held in Ocean View.

Kevin White represents the Chinese
Company wanting to put industrial solar
in Ocean View neighborhoods.
Photo by Ann Bosted

Kevin White, a Director for Market Development at SPI Energy, headquartered in Shanghai, China, met with residents to discuss his company’s plans to build a 6.5 megawatt solar project on 26 scattered housing sites among rural homes. The project has been on hold since September when the state Public Utilities Commission received a 73-page formal complaint from residents who contended that the project should not be in the Feed In Tariff program to sell electricity to Hawai`i Electric Light Co.

HELCO and the developer, SPI Energy, applied to the PUC in August 2015 for permission to construct an overhead transmission line to connect the project to the grid. The application triggered a community meeting in February 2016 before PUC Chair Randy Iwase and then Consumer Advocate Jeffery Ono. Iwase and Ono listened with interest to the plethora of complaints about the project. They acknowledged that the project was more than a NIMBY (not in my back yard) issue, and Iwase told residents that their testimony “has not fallen on deaf ears.”

Ono, writing that the project is not in the public interest, recommended that the overhead transmission line be "undergrounded" at the developer’s expense. He also recommended that the PUC require the developer to pay up front for the costs of removing the transmission line, the substation and all the 26 solar installations at the end of the 20-year project. He cited SPI Energy’s lack of a “Community Give-Back Program.” White’s meeting could be seen as a reaction to Ono’s criticism.

Before the transmission line issue could be decided, the PUC received the formal complaint, asking that the project be either terminated or relocated. The PUC immediately put the Transmission Line Application on hold.

On Sept. 14, Iwase told the Honolulu Star Advertiser: “Nobody is going to move on the FIT project. We have suspended any action on the application pending a review or an investigation or resolution of the complaint.”

OVCA President, Ron Gall, tries to control the acrimonious audience,

as Kevin White looks on. Residents loudly voiced opposition to

the industrialization of their town, contending the solar project will

erode property values and destroy the town's ranch-like ambience.

Photo by Ann Bosted

After a six-month lull, White contacted the Ocean View Community Association and asked to rent space for a community meeting. In a pre-meeting phone call with the The Ka’u Calendar, White, who is based in Roseville, California, stated that SPI wanted to explore ways of helping the community, suggesting that the company could donate a second well to the town, as mitigation for the project. However, at the meeting, White did not offer the well, saying it would cost $5 million, “and we can’t get close to that.”

Residents loudly told White, “Go away,” and “We don’t want you here ruining our community.” Others said, “Your panels will be good for target practice,” and “This program was set up for agricultural people, not for you.” One said, “You are scamming us for roads and poles.” Another asked, “Have you heard of the Monkey Wrench Gang?”

One resident contended: “As soon as your project was made public, our land and home values went down. This affects all of us. Everyone in Ocean View will take a hit”.

All the 'Ohi'a trees on 13 three-acre building sites would be leveled,

and the sites bulldozed if the project to build solar installations
among homes is allowed to go forward. If the lots were used
for homes, far fewer trees would be removed. Photo by Ann Bosted

Another asked that SPI move the project, suggesting a lease on 30 to 40 acres from Kamehameha Schools or other Hawaiian landowners to make the solar installations contiguous. It was pointed out that sites closer to the port of Kawaihae up the west coast of the island would be more convenient for transporting imported equipment, and they would be closer to the majority of the electric company's customers.

White, who was vacationing with his wife in Hawai`i for a week, told the audience: “If I was in your shoes, I would feel the same way.” He acknowledged that moving the project would be the “number one solution,” adding “I understand that – I would want the same thing.”

Residents recalled that the project had been conceived in 2011 when Pat Shudak bought three acre lots for the project, at prices above the going rate, in order to speculate on entitlements for solar power. He sold the package to SPI. One resident told the meeting that SPI can make more money by taking the state and federal tax credits - and then flipping the project once it is complete - than from selling solar power.

“They can get 65% of the cost back from taxpayers like us and then if they sell the project for, say, 80% of the cost, they will have received 145% of the cost – amounting to a 45% profit before producing one kWh of power for the grid. That is why they want to ruin our neighborhood.”

Three phase power, good roads, cheap land and

a lucrative FIT program were the incentives for

solar installers to buy up housing lots to install 16

two-acre solar power generating plants among

homes in Ocean View. Photo by Ann Bosted

A written motion to ask SPI to donate its 18 building sites in Ranchos to Habitat for Humanity was objected to by a resident who said that “poor people” in Ocean View would cause problems. It was pointed out that Habitat for Humanity’s homes are all built to code and that the prospective owners invest at least 400 hours of “sweat equity” in their construction. In addition, prospective owners are extensively interviewed and their backgrounds checked. They also pay affordable mortgages, the resident contended.

Most residents were neither in favor nor against the motion. Since many said it needed more discussion, the motion was tabled.

In spite of verbal opposition to their project, the SPI representatives handed out slips of paper, and White requested that each person write down three items that the town needs. The Whites collected the slips without divulging the contents. Some residents loudly encouraged others to write: “Go away, go away, go away.”

Sandi Alexander, former President of Ocean View Community Association, was clearly amused by White’s “Santa Clause-type ploy.” She told The Ka’u Calendar“I don’t believe they have any clue who they are dealing with and how much opposition they will continuously have to deal with until this goes away.

“Why would anyone want to invest in technology that is already out of date? We are going to be stuck with outdated, horrible, structures rusting away, and we are going to have to deal with them. My first choice is ‘no project at all and my second is ‘project elsewhere,’” said Alexander.

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THE MYSTERY HAZE OF 1950 is the title of the latest Volcano Watch by scientists of Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, who produce the weekly column and pinpoint the origin of the word vog:

On June 13, 1950, Honolulu was suddenly blanketed by the thickest haze seen since record keeping began there in 1906. Interestingly, the haze was first noticed four days earlier at Johnston Island, 800 miles southwest of O‘ahu, and then on June 12th at Wake Island 1,500 miles west-southwest. The total area covered by the dense haze layer was estimated to be 1,200,000 square miles.

Fume rises from lava fountains erupting along a six-mile long fissure on

Mauna Loa's Southwest Rift Zone on June 2, 1950. Such fume may

have ultimately been responsible for the Mystery Haze in Honolulu

on June 13. Photo from Air National Guard, 199th Fighter Squadron

The Weather Bureau in Honolulu, led by an up-and-coming new meteorologist named Robert H. Simpson, described the phenomenon as a “dry haze…due to a concentration of salt particles…and other impurities such as smoke.” The Bureau surmised that the haze was trapped beneath a stable layer of air we know today as the inversion layer, which prevented vertical movement of the haze. So, although the Weather Bureau was able to roughly characterize the nature of the haze by where it was found, its cause was still a mystery.

This was the era of atmospheric nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands, so an atomic blast was the first suspected cause. But that was quickly ruled out after Geiger counters, operated by the Hawai`i Sugar Planters’ association, detected no radiation.

Robert Homer Simpson, left, led the Weather Bureau in
Honolulu, founded Mauna Loa Observatory and later
led the National Hurricane Center. He lived to
the age of 102.

Simpson and his colleagues at the Weather Bureau had three remaining hypotheses for what caused the thick haze:

The first was that there had been a cataclysmic eruption (like Krakatoa in 1883 or Katmai in 1912) someplace on Earth at some distance, probably to the southwest. However, none was known in recent times.

A second hypothesis was that a giant dust storm somewhere in the world had ejected fine dust particles high into the atmosphere and they were carried to Hawaii by winds aloft. Although dust from storms in the Gobi Desert of northern China and Mongolia has been detected in Hawai`i, no such storm was happening then.

The third hypothesis was that the haze was indirectly caused by the Mauna Loa eruption going on at the time. According to mainland geologists, Mauna Loa could not have directly caused the haze because it was a “quiet” type of volcano, not explosive, like Krakatoa in 1883. They acknowledged that the Mauna Loa eruption, specifically its ocean entries, probably contributed to the haze but was not a main component because the haze appeared to move toward, rather than from, Mauna Loa.

More testing was done on the particles collected from the haze. Hawai`i Board of Health analysis showed “500 to 600 times the normal amount of suspended particles in Honolulu’s air.” Twenty-two percent of the particles were salt and the rest were unidentified dark, slightly acidic solids. Pineapple Research Institute scientists found more sulfate than salt in the soluble particles (prompting the term ‘smalt’ for the haze—combining the words ‘smog’ and ‘salt’), suggesting a volcanic source.

With Mauna Loa looking more likely as the source, Simpson suggested that high altitude winds might have carried emissions westward to Wake (and Johnston?) Islands, where lower level winds blew the haze back to Hawai`i. A colleague, Captain Charles K. Stidd, commanding officer of the 199th weather station, Hawai`i Air National Guard, suggested that, because the inversion layer rose above the elevation of Mauna Loa’s vents during the time that haze covered the Hawaiian Islands, it may have allowed Mauna Loa emissions to remain within the lower atmosphere around the islands. Capt. Stidd called the haze “vog.” Once the inversion layer dropped below Mauna Loa’s erupting vents, the haze was again confined above the inversion layer. Trade winds then cleared it out of the Hawaiian Islands and minds.

Mauna Loa Observatory, founded by Robert Homer Simpson. Photo by Forrest Mimms III

Simpson, the weatherman searching for the mystery haze’s origin, later founded what is now the Mauna Loa Observatory (a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration atmospheric research facility), among his other career contributions. Since the time of Simpson, Stidd, and the 1950 Mauna Loa eruption, our understanding of vog and its effects on humans, agriculture, and the natural environment has increased as well.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory staff recently updated the U.S. Geological Survey Fact Sheet on vog. This four-page document, Volcanic Air Pollution in Hawai`i, can be found online at https://pubs.er.usgs.gov/publication/fs20173017.

Visit the HVO website (http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov) for Kīlauea daily eruption updates, Mauna Loa weekly updates, volcano photos, recent earthquakes info, and more; call for summary updates at 808-967-8862 (Kīlauea) or 808-967-8866 (Mauna Loa); email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

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Dance Imagined with Karen Masaki begins on Tuesday, May 2 at 10 a.m. at the Volcano Art Center campus in Volcano village. The five-session series begins with a general warm up, moving through all body parts to get the blood flowing and joints loosened. Attention will then shift to explorations of spinal and joint movements and breathing exercises to build fluidity and strength. No dance experience required. See www.volcanoartcenter.org.

A Hula Pele Workshop with Kumu Ab Valencia, begins on Tuesday, May 2 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Volcano Art Center. As King David Kalakaua said, “Hula is the language of the heart, therefore the heartbeat of the Hawaiian People.” The classes continue Tuesdays, May 9, 16, and 23. See www.volcanoartcenter.org.

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Tiny Houses, according to proponents of the bill at the legislature, would provide affordable abodes for
farmers to stay close to their crops and livestock and also make farm worker housing more affordable.
Photo from Hawai`i Farmers Union United

THE TINY HOUSE INITIATIVE in the Hawai`i Legislature faces a final vote on Tuesday. Hawai`i Farmers Union United is asking for support from citizens, announcing "The tiny House Bill has made it through the House, through four committee votes, and through a joint Senate/House Conference!" The organization calls the bill "a real step towards food security." Farmers Union statewide Presidetn Vince Mina urges all supporter to write and call their state Senators to "let them know you support the HB@ Tiny House bill to help our farmers live on their farms and grow more local food."
The Hawai`i State Legislature's description of the bill says it "Authorizes Authorizes tiny homes of less than 500 square feet for farm workers in agricultural districts in a county with a population of more than 180,000 but less than 250,000 (making it only applicable to Hawai`i County.) County council may adopt ordinances for the oversight of tiny homes, as defined in this act. (HB2 CD1)."

State Board of Agriculture Chair Scott Enright wrote that his department is concerned that "these 'tiny homes' do not become de facto residential dwellings if the County is unable to adequately monitor and enforce the farm worker/family occupancy requirement for these 'tiny homes.'”

Testimony can be submitted at www.capitol.gov. See HB1.

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A GROWING NATIVE HAWAIIAN, PACIFIC ISLANDER AND ASIAN AMERICAN POPULATION should be recorded and analyzed by the federal office of Management and Budget, according to Sen. Mazie K. Hirono. She, Sen. Brian Schatz and nine other U.S. Senate Democrats urged OMB to update its standards for the collection of racial and ethnic data, not been updated since 1997.

Hirono made the announcement today, the first day of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

“A lack of disaggregated data on the AAPI community has led to the ‘model minority’ myth that—based on the current federal data—virtually all Asian American, Pacific Islanders are self-sufficient, well-educated, and upwardly mobile. However, in reality these metrics differ widely among different AAPI subcategories," wrote the Senators. “Better data collection will more accurately reflect the AAPI community’s realities and needs such as educational challenges, language access, poverty, and disability. Without access to better data, these disparities would remain concealed behind the model minority myth leaving our communities invisible to policymakers and our needs unmet.”

The letter also requests OMB to require all federal departments and agencies to follow disaggregated classifications noted in a recently-released U.S. Census Bureau report titled 2015 National Content Test: Race and Ethnicity Analysis Report.

The letter was also signed by Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Ben Cardin (D- Md.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Amy Klobuchar (D- Minn.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Patty Murray (D-Wash.).

The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, Asian Americans Advancing Justice, National Council of Asian Pacific Americans, and Southeast Asia Resource Action Center support the letter.

Kathy Ko Chin, president and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, said, “Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders – communities that are incredibly diverse and trace their heritage to more than 50 different countries and speak more than 100 different languages – are acutely aware of the importance and need for strong federal data collection standards. These standards impact many aspects of health access, coverage and quality and produce data that the federal government and our communities rely upon.”

John C. Yang, president and executive director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice, said,

“The Asian American and Pacific Islander community represents more than 100 countries and 56 languages, but that rich heritage is essentially invisible without disaggregated data. Such data is critical to our ability to get the proper level of services and representation. Our community delivered a strong message to OMB that we demand to be counted.”

Christopher Kang, national director of the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans, said, "It is imperative for federal agencies to collect detailed data on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders so the government is able to determine the best ways to allocate resources that account for our community's economic, health and educational disparities, as well was our cultural and linguistic diversity. We are encouraged to have strong support from Members of Congress, hundreds of organizations and thousands of individuals on the need to change federal data collection standards so that our communities are not misrepresented or left behind."

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Island youth listen as Ranger Noah explains how

shards of volcanic glass, called Pele's Hair, are formed.

NPS Photo/Janice Wei

FREE SUMMER JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAMS begin June 6 and June 13 at Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. Deadline to register is noon, Wednesday, May 17. Keiki from ages seven to 13 years old are invited to become Next Generation Stewards.

A fun-filled, three-day program for keiki ages seven to 10 is June 6-8, and a program for youngsters ages 11 to 13 is June 13-15.

Each age group begins Tuesday and ends on Thursday. For the first two days, Next Generation Stewards begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m. On the last day (Thursday), the program begins at 11:30 a.m. and ends at 7 p.m. The programs will start and end at the Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai.

The summer junior ranger program is designed to encourage a child’s enthusiasm for conservation by connecting the child with park resources and staff, and to inspire his or her appreciation of what is uniquely Hawaiian by exploring the natural and cultural heritage of Hawai‘i.

Participants must bring and be able to carry their own day pack with water, snacks, lunch, and raingear, and hike for age-appropriate distances over uneven terrain at a leisurely pace. All interested applicants must submit an application to register. Contact Education Specialist Gwen “Lanakila” Anderson at (808) 985-6020 or email gwen_anderson@nps.gov for information and an application.

Applications are due by noon on Wednesday, May 17, and selections will be made, and parents notified, on May 18.

The summer Next Generation Stewards junior ranger program is co-sponsored by the Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association and the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Park entrance fees apply.

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KEEP AMERICA BEAUTIFUL is accepting applications for the National Youth Advisory Council 2017-2018. The National YAC consists of ten high school students (15-18 years old) from diverse

backgrounds across the nation to participate selected to participate in this service-learning and leadership development initiative. Participants will contribute to and inform KAB on End Littering, Improve Recycling and Beautify Communities Impact Goals while acting as ambassadors and leaders for youth service in their communities. The National Youth Advisory Council, thanks to the generous support of the Wrigley Co. Foundation, creates a framework for youth engagement at the national, state and local level.
To review the application and instructions to prepare the application, visit the KAB website. Applications accepted through May 5, 2017 5:00 pm HT. Application must be submitted on-line and is available by clicking here.

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Cyril Pahinui has taught many classes and performed
often in Ka`u.

CYRIL PAHINUI AND LED KA`APANA, who have taught Hawaiian music in Ka`u and supported numerous concerts and programs here, are nominated for People's Choice Awards Favorite Entertainer of the Year by the Hawai`i Academy of Recording Arts for the 40th Annual Na Hoku Hanaohan Awards.

Led Ka`apana, with roots
in Ka`u.

The other nominees are: Kupaoa Hoku Zuttermeister, Kawika Kahiapo, Eauhou, Josh Tatofi, Kalani Pe'a, Jeff Peterson, Amy Hananaiali`i and Ra`iatea Helm.
Deadline to vote online is May 13 at

http://www.nahokuhanohano.org/favorite2017

The Na Hoku Hanohano Awards ceremony will be held in Honolulu at the Hawai`i Convention Center on Friday, May 19 as part of a Music Festival with workshops. See www.nahokuhanohano.org for workshop and show tickets.

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NOAA’S HAWAIIAN HUMPBACK NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY is seeking to fill four primary and seven alternate seats on its advisory council. The council ensures public participation in sanctuary matters and provides advice to sanctuary management.

Ka`u residents may qualify to be selected for the following open seats: business/commerce (primary and alternate); conservation (alternate); Native Hawaiian (primary); ocean recreation (alternate); and tourism (primary).
Candidates are selected based on their expertise and experience in relation to the seat for which they are applying, community and professional affiliations, and views regarding the protection and management of marine resources. Applicants who are chosen as primary or alternate members should expect to serve a three-year term.
“The members of our advisory council represent an extremely important element of our community,” said Malia Chow, sanctuary superintendent. “Their input, experience and expertise assist sanctuary managers in making informed and timely decisions on how best to protect and conserve our important cultural and natural resources.”

Applications are due by Wednesday, May 31. To receive an application kit or for further information, please contact Shannon Ruseborn via email at Shannon.Ruseborn@noaa.gov; by phone at 808-725-5905; or visit the sanctuary website at http://hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov/council/council_app_accepting.html. Completed applications should be submitted to: Inouye Regional Center, ATTN: NOS/HIHWNMS/ Shannon Ruseborn, 1845 Wasp Boulevard, Building 176, Honolulu, HI 96818.

Ka`u residents with expertise in Hawaiian culture, conservation, business,
tourism or outdoor recreation can apply to become an advisor to the
Hawaiian Humpback National Marine Sanctuary. Photo from NOAA

The sanctuary is administered by a partnership of NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries and the State of Hawai‘i through the Department of Land and Natural Resources. The sanctuary works to protect humpback whales through research, education, conservation and stewardship. Join us on Facebook.
A statement from NOAA says its "mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources." See Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and other social media channels.

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www.kaucalendar.com

Volunteer Fire Department Meeting, Mon, May 1, 4 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033

Hawai‘i County Council Meetings, Tue/Wed, May 2/3 & 16/17, 9 a.m.; Thu, May 18. The county has shut down the Na`alehu site for participating via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. See hawaiicounty.gov for agendas and live-streamed and archived meetings.

Dance Imagined, Tue, May 2, 10 – 11:30 a.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. Karen Masaki offers a five-session series that explores basic movement technique, building strength and flexibility. $50. 967-8222

Hula Pele, Tue, May 2, 4 – 5 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Kumu Ab Valencia offers a four-session series that pays homage to Pelehonuamea and her home at Kīlauea. $200. 967-8222

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Meeting, Tue, May 2, 6 – 8 p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

Open Mic Night, Wed, May 3, 6 – 10 p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp’s Lava Lounge in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Call 967-8365 after 4 p.m. to sign up and for more details. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch meeting, Thu, May 4, 7 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-2442 & 928-2015 An Evening of Hawaiian Languag

One of the many maps, along with much data and description, in the Ka`u Community Development Plan,
which goes to public hearing on Wednesday, May 10, 5:30 p.m., Na`alehu Community Center.
See the plan at www.kaucdp.info and see story below.

A "JOB-KILLING PILAU BILL" is what Sen. Kai Kahele called a proposed hike in the Transient Accommodations Tax, when he testified today on the state Senate floor. The tax would have raised the TAT from 9.25 percent to 12 percent for a decade to help pay for the mass transit rail project on O`ahu.
"I am against this proposal for many reasons," said Kahele. "This bill was concocted in the eleventh hour by a privileged few with the complete absence of transparency and collaboration and accountability. The subject matter chairs are circumvented. The industry was sidestepped, the counties were a mere afterthought, and the public, of all people, were not given the opportunity to be heard.

See Sen. Kahele's speech on www.bigislandvideonews.com

"The mechanism of using the Transient Accommodations Tax is one thing and one thing only. It is a job killer in the state of Hawai`i. And make no mistake, this bill would hurt our state's number one industry, which is tourism. The potentially disastrous consequences of passing this bill and adding to the unfortunate reputation as one of the most expensive places to visit in these states, putting us at a competitive disadvantage that could lead to fewer visitors and less visitor spending and cause a ripple effect that may negatively impact small businesses in our community. The economic impact of this bill on our Neighbor Island communities and local families will be devastating.
"For my my home on Hawai`i Island, the ramifications of the proposed change to 12 percent TAT would result in an immediate loss of $4 million dollars to the economy of the County of Hawai`i. It would put at risk core services for residents and visitors, including ocean safety officers, park and trail maintenance, police protection, fire protection, bus services infrastructure repair and maintenance."
At the end of the day, the TAT was left at the current 9.25 percent. Kahele said that he supports the rail, in its original plan, connecting the new city of Kapolei with downtown Honolulu and University of Hawai`i at Manoa.

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A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE KA`U COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN will be held a on Wednesday, May 10, the county Planning Department reminds the Ka`u citizenry. The hearing before the Windward Planning Commission begins at 5:30pm, at the Nā'ālehu Community Center, 95-5635 Māmalahoa Hwy, Nā'ālehu. For those wanting planning commissioners to consider their comments before the meeting, the deadline to send them in is Thursday, May 4. "Comment submitted electronically will be quickly forwarded to Commissioners," says a statement from the Planning Department.

"The purpose of this public hearing is to afford all interested persons reasonable opportunity to comment on the Kaʻū CDP and for the Commission to review the CDP and consider its recommendation to the County Council." A link to the May 10 Planning Commission meeting and hearing and related materials is available at the CDP project web site: www.kaucdp.info.
"The version of the Kaʻū CDP being recommended for adoption is very similar to the version recommended by the CDP Steering Committee in October 2015. Only non-substantive refinements are being recommended by the Planning Director," says the statement from the Planning Department.
All Planning Commission meetings and public hearings are open to the public, and public comment is welcome. Public comment is accepted before and during Planning Commission meetings. If written comment is provided, ten copies should be submitted, states the Planning Department notice.

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Residents questioned the plans for Discovery Harbour at the recent
Steering Committee meeting for the Ka`u Community Development
Plan, which can be seen at www.kaucdp.info.

CONFUSION, ABOUT LAND USE DESIGNATIONS AT DISCOVERY HARBOUR, is the word from the Hawa`i County Planning Department. According to the Planning Department statement reminding citizens that on May 10, Ka`u Community Development Plan goes to public hearing, "There appears to still be a great deal of confusion about the land use designations recommended in the CDP for Discovery Harbour.

The Planning Department statement explains, "The 'gateway' parcels are in the State Land Use Agriculture district, are zoned Open, and are designated Rural in the General Plan. They do not have any Village Commercial land use designation; however, the CC&Rs allow for Single-family residential or Village commercial or multi-family residential. The CDP has no impact on the CC&Rs.
"The CDP recommends that these parcels be designated Low Density Urban in the General Plan to allow for higher-density residential and neighborhood and convenience-type commercial uses that current land use designations don't otherwise allow.
"People interested in that issue should refer to the Background Report and Planning Director's Recommendations: http://www.hawaiicountycdp.info/kau-cdp/background-report-and-planning-directors-recommendations-to-the-windward-planning-commission/view, specifically:
The definitions of "Low Density Urban" and "Rural" in the CDP glossary," suggests the Planning Department
Maps are on pages 18-19 of Exhibit 2: Strategy Rationale (to see current General Plan designations) See pages 4-5 of Exhibit 3: CDP PROJECT TEAM'S DETAILED COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS related to agency comment.

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Ka`u Learning Academy students, with teacher Audra Zook at their
Peaceful Garden site. Photo from Good for All News

KA`U LEARNING ACADEMY'S CHILDREN'S PEACEFUL GARDEN is a collaboration with an organization called Something Good in the World. The organization created a Children's Peaceful Garden design as presented at the most recent United Nations International Day of Peace. In the recent issue of Jane Goodall's Good for All News, writer Barbara Sarbin wrote:

"Recently, Something Good in the World has been collaborating with a small charter school in Hawai`i." The article states that the Ka`u is rural and that in "situations where people don’t have access to healthy food, there can be a lack of knowledge about the origins of foods and how to make healthy choices, which contributes to poor health and nutrition.

"Something Good in the World is dedicated to offering free farm-based education programs to children who live in these 'food deserts.' Access to fresh food is difficult in these places and schools provide many of the students’ meals for free. Despite what you might imagine on an island with trees dripping with avocados, mangoes, papayas, and bananas, the district of Ka’u is in fact a certified food desert.

Making worm cakes to help the soil to grow food at
Ka`u Learning Academy. Photo from Good for All News

"The first step in helping set up their garden was to encourage their teacher, Audra Zook, to apply for a Roots & Shoots mini-grant. She took up the suggestion and named her project, 'Where’s the Food?'
The article states, "In Ka’u, you can forage fruits and catch fish, if you know how. But what if you want to buy some veggies? There are only two tiny grocery stores in the town of Na’alehu where the school is located, and you have to own a car to get to more affordable stores. In terms of fresh vegetables, there are farmer’s markets, but these are pricey and many people are on food stamps, which aren’t accepted at local markets. Most affordable foods are processed, which is less healthy and can lead to obesity and diabetes.

"At one time in history, the district of Ka’u sustained 100,000 people on locally grown foods. Today, 85% of the food is imported. One goal of the school garden initiative is to encourage children and their families to supplement their tables with homegrown, fresh veggies and herbs.

Meeting with Audra’s garden class was a total pleasure. We made 'worm cake' (compost for worms), designed their Children’s Peaceful Garden, and collected lava rocks to delineate the spaces for growing herbs, cactus, and pineapples! The children had great fun naming their worms for the worm bin, and visiting them each day to feed them and give them a misting of water. They collected lava rocks to create an oval for planting the pineapple garden and learned all about how pineapples grow.

Watering the Peaceful Garden in teams.
Photo from Good for All News

"We found solutions to many of the obstacles Audra faced. Instead of planting veggies from seeds in the hard and dry ground, they’d have better success getting seedlings from a local organic farm. Rather than planting cash crops, like coffee or sugar cane that required a lot of water, it is better to go with native plants that need less water. We looked at a roof on their outdoor classroom that sloped down to the garden and was perfect for a rain barrel and drip irrigation system.

"By the end of the week, a new Children’s Peaceful Garden was born. The garden is dedicated to peaceful play and integrated with the school curriculum. It teaches children the origins of their food and how to make healthy choices while supplementing their table at home. I received an email from Audra, telling me she had consulted with a local teacher who translated the name of the garden into Hawaiian so the children could connect with their language. The sign at the entrance reads “Ka Mala Maluhia” = The Garden Peaceful," wrote the writer for the Jane Goodall publication.

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Hawai‘i County Council Meetings, Wed, May 3 & 16/17, 9 a.m.; Thu, May 18. The county has shut down the Na`alehu site for participating via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. See hawaiicounty.gov for agendas and live-streamed and archived meetings.

Open Mic Night, Wed, May 3, 6 – 10 p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp’s Lava Lounge in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Call 967-8365 after 4 p.m. to sign up and for more details. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch meeting, Thu, May 4, 7 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-2442 & 928-2015 An Evening of Hawaiian Language.

The Na`alehu sewage treatment plant would be located near Na`alehu School, makai of Hwy 11.
Image from County of Hawai`i

GANG CESSPOOLS IN NA`ALEHU AND PAHALA will be shut down. The Environmental Protection Agency has ordered County of Hawai`i to close them and invites the public to comment of the plan. The county has released a map of a selected site for the Pahala treatment plant, near the scenic Norfolk Pine entrance to the town at Maile Street and Highway 11. In Na`alehu, the plan is to site the sewage treatment plant near Na`alehu School, makai of Highway 11.

Implementation of the plans are expected to take several years, according to the County's proposed timelines.

Input is welcome through May 30 from Pahala and Na`alehu residents, and other interested parties. They can comment on the Administrative Order of Consent mandating that the County of Hawai`i close large capacity community cesspools in Pahala and Na`alehu. They can also comment on the County of Hawai`i's Workplans, which show how and when the County intends to close the seven large capacity cesspools "that are being allegedly operated in violation of a ban that wen int effect in 2005," says a press release from the County.

Planned sewage treatment plant site, which would be purchased
from Kamehameha Schools. It is now a macadamia orchard next
to the scenic entrance to Pahala. Map from County of Hawai`i

In Pahala, the EPA has ordered the County to close two large capacity cesspools serving approximately 109 private residences and two large capacity cesspools serving the Pahala Elderly Apartments.

The plans submitted to the EPA by the County, show that the County plans to use Kamehameha School property makai of Maile Street where macadamia orchards are currently growing. The property is close to the scenic Norfolk pine entry to the village along Maile Street. The property would be condemned and acquired by the county.

In a section that describes the benefits to Pahala, the report says, "The expected output and outcome is a design and construction project that will produce a new wastewater collection system that will replace C. Brewer’s Sugar Plantation Sewer System consisting of 60-year old sewer lines and LCCs that are in poor condition. The benefit is to the Pāhala residents will no longer need to be concerned about the reliability of their sewer system from a health and welfare standpoint. Dependable sewer service will be available to 109 residential properties currently served by the existing sewer system in the Pāhala Community." An additional 65 properties that are not currently being served by the existing sewer system will receive the new sewer service.

In Na`alehu, the EPA has ordered the closure of three large capacity cesspools serving approximately 163 homes. The new location will be on state property, the site chosen to be farther from the historic makahiki lands between Na`alehu and Honu`apo, than previously selected locations for the treatment plant.

In a section of the report describing benefits to Na`aleu, the County writes, "The expected output and outcome is a design and construction project that will produce a new wastewater treatment and collection system that will replace C. Brewer’s Sugar Plantation Sewer System consisting of 60-year old sewer lines and LCCs that are in poor condition. The benefit is to the Nā‘ālehu residents will no longer need to be concerned about the reliability of their sewer system from a health and welfare standpoint. Dependable sewer service will be available to 161 properties currently served by the existing sewer system in the Nā‘ālehu Community and to an additional 32 properties that are not currently being served by the existing sewer system."

Proposed sewage lines from the old sugar camp houses to Highway 11 where they would
cross over to the new sewage treatment plant that would be near Na`alehu School.
Image from County of Hawai`i

Plans, maps and timelines for completing the projects in both Na`alehu and Pahala can be seen at:

https://www.epa.gov/uic/hawaii-cesspools-administrative-orders
https://www.epa.gov/uic/matter-county-hawaii-docket-no-sdwa-uic-09-2017-0002
https://www.epa.gov/uic/consent-agreement-and-final-order-proposed-matter-county-hawaii
According to an EPA Public Notice, the public may provide comments on the matter through May 30, 2017. To submit comments to the EPA, the public is asked to provide with those comments the following information: Full name, mailing address, telephone number, email address, the Docket Number (SDWA-UIC-09-2017-0002), and a concise statement of the basis for and relevant facts supporting any comments.
For more information and to send comments, contact EPA Region IX Enforcement Division
Jelani Shareem (shareem.jelani@epa.gov) of mail to her at Enforcement Officer, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region IX; 75 Hawthorne Street (ENF-3-3); San Francisco, CA 94105. Call (415) 972- 3095.

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KA`U CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SCHOLARSHIP deadline is June 1. The Chamber encourages

Ka`u youth and adult students to apply for the annual Ken Wicks Ka`u Chamber of Commerce Scholarship. Preference is to those who intend to remain in or return to Ka`u after completing higher education. Scholarship money can be used for all college and vocational training and ranges from $250 to $1,000 per year. Students who remain in school, in good standing, are eligible to receive the scholarship annually. For an application, see kauchmber.org. Call Lee McIntosh at 929-9872 with questions.

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REGISTER FOR SUMMER FUN AT KA`U DISTRICT GYM on Wednesday, May 4 from 3:30 p.m.to 5:30 p.m. and Monday through Thursday, noon to 8 p.m. and Friday, 7:45 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., enrollment is full.

Summer Fun will be held for the first time this year at Ka`u District
Gym. Registration is Wednesday afternoon and until enrollment
is met. Photo by Julia Neal

A spectrum of arts and crafts projects, indoor and outdoor games, sports, music, dance, nature exploration, swimming, special events and excursions will highlight Summer Fun from June 7 – July 21 at Ka‘ū District Gym, Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Council member Maile David is funding more than half the cost for each child through her council member budget. With the subsidy, the cost per keiki for the entire summer break will be $40. Children must have completed Kindergarten and are eligible through sixth grade. The enrollment limit is 40 youngsters. Participants must bring their own lunches daily. Snacks are optional.

For more information, call Nona Makuakane at 928-3102. See program guides at http://www.hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation.

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Volcano Chamber Players are, from left, Susan McGovern,

viola; Meg Saunders, cello; Mark Caudill, violin;

Glenda Johnson, violin. Photo from VAC

A MOTHER'S DAY CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT at Ni‘aulani Sculpture Garden is planned. What do a classically trained violinist, a Harvard-educated math teacher, a former park ranger, and a local Hilo realtor all have in common? They are members of the Volcano Chamber Players, a string quartet that will be performing classical chamber music on Sunday, May 14 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The afternoon of fine chamber music and pupu for Mother’s Day includes a tour of Volcano Art Center’s Ni‘aulani Sculpture Garden. The Great Room provides the setting for an intimate afternoon of music in the forest, steps away from the garden.
Volcano Chamber Players will perform favorite classical works by Bach, Handel, Mozart, Purcell and Puccini, as well as popular romantic music such as Music of the Night (from Phantom of the Opera) by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sunrise, Sunset (from Fiddler on the Roof), and Blue Tango by Leroy Anderson.
Tickets for the concert are $20/$15 for VAC members. To purchase, call 967-8222 or see volcanoartcenter.org.
Funds raised will support the Ni‘aulani Sculpture Garden and ongoing programs at VAC.

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Ocean View Neighborhood Watch meeting, Thu, May 4, 7 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-2442 & 928-2015 An Evening of Hawaiian Language.

An Evening of Hawaiian Language, Thu, May 4, 7 – 9 p.m., Volcano Art Center. UH-Hilo instructor ʻĀlika Guerrero gives an overview of a series of classes beginning in July at VAC. Free; donations accepted. 967-8222

Ocean View Cinco de Mayo Party, Fri, May 5, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., St. Jude’s Episcopal Church. Enchiladas, refried beans, said, beverage & dessert. $8 per person, $15 for two, $20 for family at the door. 939-7555

Paint Your Own Silk Scarf, Sat, May 6, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Patti Pease Johnson helps students open up their creativity and challenge themselves. $50/$45 VAC members. 967-8222

Stewardship at the Summit, Sat, May 6, 12, 20, 26; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Volunteers clear ginger from park trails. Free; park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/havo Realms & Divisions of Kahuku, Sat, May 6, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Pu‘u Kahuku Trail explores the traditional Hawaiian land classification system. Free. nps.gov/havo

www.kaucalendar.com

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard said she supports an Expanded and Improved Medicare for All Act, rather than the Trumpcare
bill that passed the U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday. Photo from National Nurses Union

A TRUMPCARE BILL TO REPEAL THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT passed the U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday, and was sent to the U.S. Senate, which is less likely to pass it.

Officially called the American Health Care Act, the Trumpcare bill passed the House by a vote of 217-213.

Sen. Mazie Hirono said she
will "stand strong" to protect
affordable health care.

Sen Mazie Hirono reacted swiftly: “Today, I’m thinking of the thousands of Hawai`i residents I’ve heard from who are living in fear of losing their insurance and other protections they’ve received thanks to the Affordable Care Act. Constituents like Kathryn, a teacher and single parent, who is afraid of losing her insurance because of a preexisting condition; and Anne, who gave birth to a healthy baby boy thanks to Medicaid coverage. The fight to save the Affordable Care Act in the Senate starts today. I will stand strong to ensure Trumpcare does not undermine Prepaid Health Care and Affordable Care Act protections for Hawaii families.”

Sen. Brian Schatz tweeted: "This is a loss, no doubt. But now we dust ourselves off and use this against them. The resistance grows strong every day. Especially today." Schatz said the "age tax is one of the most offensive parts of this awful bill," and retweeted another Senator's comment, "Trumpcare would mean insurers could charge older Americans 5 x more than they charge younger Americans. Five Times."

Referring to allowing for insurers to charge higher health insurance rates for those with

Sen. Brian Schatz called the "age
tax the most offensive part
of this awful bill."

preconditions, and also referring to a group of Republicans applauding the House vote Thursday at a White House hoopla before another congressional vacation, Schatz tweeted: "They are making healthcare more expensive for sexual assault survivors. Then they are celebrating it. Then they are taking 10 days off."

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard tweeted, "Our healthcare system is broken. The AHCA 217 R's voted for today just makes it worse. Let's continue our push for #HR676 - #MedicareForAll." She also tweeted that #AHCA is a giveaway for pharma & ins companies on the backs of the people;" and " #AHCA is worse for our kūpuna, those with preexisting conditions, & those who need maternity, substance abuse, & mental health care."

This being National Nurses Week, Gabbard, who co-chairs the National Nurses Caucus, urged Congress to pass the Title XIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act "that trains our nurses. Passing it will help fill the one million nursing jobs needed by 2022."

After voting against Trumpcare, Gabbard issued a statement: “The bill that passed today is not a healthcare bill—it’s a big handout to insurance and pharmaceutical companies. This bill slashes $880 billion from Medicaid, strips away health benefits like maternity care, substance

Rep. Tulsi Gabard wants
universal health care.

abuse treatment, and mental health services, expands a crippling age tax on our seniors, eliminates healthcare tax credits for over 7 million veterans, and breaks the bank for those with pre-existing conditions.

"While corporations rake in over $600 billion in tax breaks, many low-income Americans will see their coverage drop completely. This partisan bill was rushed through, resulting in corporate benefits on the backs of the people. We need real healthcare reform that brings down costs, increases access to quality care, and ensures basic health services are available to all Americans.

"As a cosponsor of H.R.676, the Expanded & Improved Medicare for All Act, I’m working towards a system that will provide universal healthcare to all Americans—a standard met by nearly every other industrialized nation.”

The Trumpcare bill is opposed by AARP, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, the American Hospital Association, the American Nurses Association, the National Nurses Union United, the National Disability Rights Network, the AFL-CIO, the National Farmers Union, the National Education Association and many other organizations.

The National Nurses Union United issued a list of Trumpcare bill concerns, contending it would:

Eliminate the Prevention and Public Health Fund, which will worsen the health of communities, spread infectious disease, and increase health system costs;

Add caption

Phase out coverage for Medicaid expansion in Medicaid expansion states beginning in 2020, while preventing new states from receiving enhanced Federal Medical Assistance Percentage in order to expand Medicaid;
Institute a per capita cap for Medicaid, along with the option for states to use a block grant instead. Both options will reduce coverage for the most vulnerable, shift care from clinics to emergency rooms, increase system costs for the chronically ill as they defer treatments because of cost, and unfairly shift the burden of costs to the states;
Empower individual states to determine eligibility, scope and benefits for Medicaid as per their own discretion, but there will be no increase in federal monies to cover expanded eligibility;
Eliminate funding to Planned Parenthood which will worsen women’s health, and create burdens for women, families and society from unsafe pregnancies and other health conditions no longer treated;

National Nurses Union came out with a list of concerns over the health

care bill that passed the U.S. House of Representatives.

Photo from National Nurses Union

Eliminate the definition of “essential benefits” – a move that makes all patients vulnerable to the distortions and marketing games of insurance companies;
Repeal the cost-sharing subsidies of the ACA, and destroy the ability of 80 percent of people currently buying insurance on the Exchanges to maintain coverage;
Open the door for junk insurance. The bill includes a penalty for lack of continuous coverage, creating a big incentive for patients to buy low-cost, no-coverage plans;
Fail to encourage low-cost coverage, because the legislation shifts thousands of dollars in spending from insurance company spending to the individual’s out of pocket costs;
Reproduce the failed “high – risk pools” of the 1990’s and 2000’s, through the “Patient and Stability Fund, ” stating that "it is inevitable that the number of eligible patients will overwhelm the resources of these high risk pools;"
Repeal the Medicare Hospital Insurance Tax, which will reduce funding and destabilize for the Medicare program that our nation’s seniors rely on;
Allow insurers to charge seniors five times the amount of a younger person. "This revision will prove to be deadly for our nation’s seniors, and it reveals the extent to which this reform will benefit the profit margins of insurance companies, at the expense of patients’ lives," stated the National Nurses Union.

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A 14.1 PERCENT INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF FIREARMS registered statewide in 2016 was announced by the Hawai`i Attorney General yesterday. The annual report details state and county firearms registration statistics for calendar year 2016, showing that 53,400 firearms were registered.

Hawai`i Attorney General Doug Chin

A total of 21,408 personal firearm permit applications were processed statewide during 2016, marking an 8.4 percent increase from the tally in 2015. Of the applications processed in 2016, 95.7 percent (20,488) were approved and resulted in issued permits; 2.8 percent (592) were approved but subsequently voided after the applicants failed to return for their permits within the specified time period; and 1.5 percent (328) were denied due to one or more disqualifying factors.

About half (26,616, or 49.8 percent) of the firearms registered during 2016 were imported from out-of-state, with the remainder accounted for by transfers of firearms that were previously registered in Hawai`i. Firearm registration activity increased dramatically over the course of the 17 years for which these data have been systematically compiled and reported.

Statewide, from 2000 through 2016, the annual number of statewide permit applications processed climbed 341.1 percent, the annual number of firearms registered soared 392.2 percent, and the annual number of firearms imported surged 368.2 percent.

It is a misdemeanor in the State of Hawai`i to provide falsified information on firearm permit applications, unless the falsified information pertains to criminal or mental health histories, in which case it is a felony offense. In 2016, falsified criminal or mental health information or both were provided in 60.1 percent (197) of the 328 denial cases; falsified information pertaining to anything other than criminal or mental health histories was provided in 1.5 percent (5) of the cases; and no falsified information was provided in 38.4 percent (126) of the cases.

Makana Kamahele will emcee the Ka`u Coffee
Festival Ho`olaulea, May 27.
Photo by Eric Einwiller

Persons with documented mental health histories; those who within one year of their applications were medical marijuana patients; and those with documented alcohol and/or substance abuse treatment histories were the top three types of applicants whose permit applications were denied in 2016.

The report Firearm Registrations in Hawai`i 2016 provides a range of additional statistics and analyses focused on firearm permits/licenses, registrations, and denials in the State of Hawai`i and its four counties. The full report can be downloaded from the Department of the Attorney General’s Research and Statistics Branch web site at http://ag.hawaii.gov/cpja/rs.

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THE ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP FOR KA`U COFFEE FESTIVAL has been announced for the Ho`olaulea on Saturday, May 27, all day at Pahala Community Center, beginning at 9 a.m.

Makana Kamahele is emcee.

The talent from hula to Hawaiian music and jazz, features: Ab Valencia and Halau Hula Kalehuaki`eki`eika'iu; Hands of Time; Foggy; Halau Hula O Leonalani, with Debbie Ryder; Keaiwa with Demetrius Oliverira; Harry Evengelista and Tui Masaniai; Hannah's Makana `Ohana Halau with Joe Ooka; Jean Pierre Thoma & the Jazz Tones; Sammi Fo and Halau Kahokukauahiahionalani; the Larry Dupio Band and Back Yahd Bruddahs.

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Ocean View Cinco de Mayo Party, Fri, May 5, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., St. Jude’s Episcopal Church. Enchiladas, refried beans, said, beverage & dessert. $8 per person, $15 for two, $20 for family at the door. 939-7555

Paint Your Own Silk Scarf, Sat, May 6, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Patti Pease Johnson helps students open up their creativity and challenge themselves. $50/$45 VAC members. 967-8222

Stewardship at the Summit, Sat, May 6, 12, 20, 26; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Volunteers clear ginger from park trails. Free; park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/havo Realms & Divisions of Kahuku, Sat, May 6, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Pu‘u Kahuku Trail explores the traditional Hawaiian land classification system. Free. nps.gov/havo

Papahānaumokuākea is a National Marine Monument, with a status in jeopardy under an Executive Order from
Pres. Donald Trump to review the status of five marine monuments in the U.S.

NATIONAL MONUMENT STATUS OF PAPAHANAUMOKUAKEA'S 60,938,240 acres, the largest marine protected area in the U.S., may be rescinded. Pres. Donald Trump signed an Executive Order and directed the Department of the Interior to reconsider all National Monuments of more than 100,000 acres that were established since 1996.

A statement from the Department of the Interior issued today says that the reason for the review is "to determine whether the designation or expansion was made without adequate public outreach and coordination with relevant stakeholders.

Each year, some 50 tons of marine debris are removed from the
National Marine Monument Papahānaumokuākea. Photo from NOAA

"A public comment period is not required for monument designations under the Antiquities Act; however, Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke and President Trump both strongly believe that local input is a critical component of federal land management," said the statement released by the Department of the Interior.

The Papahānaumokuākea marine preserve in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands was established by Pres. George W. Bush and doubled in size by Pres. Barack Obama with approvals of Hawai`i's Republican Governor Linda Lingle and Democratic Governor David Ige.
It is also a World Heritage Site.
In addition to Papahānaumokuākea, the Trump Administration plans to reconsider the following National Marine Monuments in the Pacific Ocean: Mairanas Trench, Rose Atoll in American Samoa, and Pacific Remote Island. There is one in the Atlantic called Northeast Canyons and Seamounts.

Said the Secretary of the Interior: “The Department of the Interior is the steward of America’s greatest treasures and the manager of one-fifth of our land. Part of being a good steward is being a good neighbor and listening to the American people who we represent. Today’s action, initiating a formal public comment process finally gives a voice to local communities and states when it comes to Antiquities Act monument designations. There is no pre-determined outcome on any monument. I look forward to hearing from and engaging with local communities and stakeholders as this process continues.”

Papahānaumokuākea protects marine heritage and

marine life. Photo from NOAA

The review of the monuments marks the first ever formal public comment period for members of the public to officially weigh in on monument designations under the Antiquities Act of 1906.

Comments may be submitted online after May 12 at http://www.regulations.gov by entering “DOI-2017-0002” in the Search bar and clicking “Search,” or by mail to Monument Review, MS-1530, U.S. Department of the Interior, 1849 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20240.
The Interior Department promised to soon publish a notice in the Federal Register officially opening the public comment period. Written comments must be submitted within 60 days of that date.

In addition to the Marine National Monument, the Trump administration is reconsidering the status of 22 land-based National Monuments: Basin and Range in Nevada; Bears Ears in Utah; Berryessa Snow Mountain in California; Canyons of the Ancients in Colorado; Carrizo Plain in California, Cascade Siskiyou in Oregon; Crates of the Moon in Idaho; Giant Sequoia in California, Gold Butte in Nevada; Grand Canyon-Parashant in Arizona; Grand Staircase-Escalante in utah; Hanford Reach in Washington; Ironwood Forest in Arizona; Mojave Trails in California; Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks in New Mexico; Rio Grande del Norte in New Mexico; Sand to Snow in California; San Gabriel Mountains in California; Sonoran Desert in Arizona; Upper Missouri River Breaks in Montana; and Vermilion Cliffs in Arizona.

Papahānaumokuākea is the home to millions of seabirds, many of them nesting there.
Photo from NOAA

Those considered for review are "designations or expansions of designations under the Antiquities Act made since January 1, 1996, where the designation covers more than 100,000 acres, where the designation after expansion covers more than 100,000 acres, or where the Secretary determines that the designation or expansion was made without adequate public outreach and coordination with relevant stakeholders, to determine whether each designation or expansion conforms to the policy set forth in section 1 of the order. Among other provisions, Section 1 states that designations should reflect the Act’s 'requirements and original objectives' and 'appropriately balance the protection of landmarks, structures, and objects against the appropriate use of Federal lands and the effects on surrounding lands and communities.'”

Manta rays are protected at Papahānaumokuākea. Photo from NOAA

Those reviewing the designations are expected to consider whether the reservations of land exceed

“the smallest area compatible with the proper care and management of the objects to be protected;”
whether designated lands are appropriately classified under the Act as “historic landmarks, historic and prehistoric structures, [or] other objects of historic or scientific interest;" and the effects of a designation on the use and enjoyment of non-Federal lands within or beyond monument boundaries;
The statement also says that the review will take into consideration the "concerns of State, tribal, and local governments affected by a designation, including the economic development and fiscal condition of affected States, tribes, and localities; and the availability of Federal resources to properly manage designated areas."

DORIS "DD" DAVIS IS THE BIG ISLAND'S OUTSTANDING OLDER AMERICAN WAHINE. Ceremonies were held today at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. Davis, 85, a Pahala resident, will be attending statewide ceremonies and a luncheon with Gov. David Ige in Honolulu.

Doris Davis is Outstanding Older
American Wahine.

Says her description from the Hawai`i Couny Office of Aging, since moving to Pahala in 2013, Davis "has made a big impact on the community she now calls home. Whether it is serving meals or assisting with sewing and art classes at the Pahala Nutrition site or helping with the home delivered meal program, DD is always willing to help.

She has held two leadership positions at the Pahala Senior Club serving as Secretary in 2014 and currently as Vice President. In consecutive years since 2014, Ms. Davis has served as Secretary, President, Treasurer and Chair of the Membership Committee for Friends of the Ka`u Libraries.

"She is also very active at Bahai Faith Spiritual Assembly for Ka`u where she teaches children and is an Adopt-a-Highway volunteer.

"While she is certainly busy with her many volunteer commitments, DD still finds time to express herself artistically. She paints in both the oil and acrylic mediums, has learned to play the `ukulele and has even written memoirs about her time living in Ghana, West Africa."

LILLIAN T. ARATANI, 93, of Pahala was a nominee for 2017 Outstanding Older American for Hawai`i Island. According to her description by the County Office of Aging,

"Lillian Aratani brings a great energy to the many organizations she serves and was a very familiar face at Ka`u Hospital where she served as a weekly volunteer for over 17 years visiting with patients and helping with activities. She also served as a volunteer with the Ka`u Community Voices Council, The Ka`u Calendar newspaper, Mala Lulima Senior Community Garden and the Intergenerational Program at the Ka`u High School SHOUT.

"For the past 16 years, Lillian has been an active member and volunteer with the Pahala Senior Club, Hawai`i County Nutrition Program and RSVP program.

"Ms. Aratani is doing her part to preserve the history of her community. She served as the Historian of the Pahala Senior Club for several years and helped organize photo albums to chronicle the Club's history.

She is also vital in passing along the story of the historic Pahala Hongwanji where she is a Fujinkai member and valued volunteer. Lillian enjoys traveling and pending time with her family in Hilo over the holidays."

Paint Your Own Silk Scarf, Sat, May 6, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center. Patti Pease Johnson helps students open up their creativity and challenge themselves. $50/$45 VAC members. 967-8222

Stewardship at the Summit, Sat, May 6, 12, 20, 26; 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Volunteers clear ginger from park trails. Free; park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/havo Realms & Divisions of Kahuku, Sat, May 6, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Pu‘u Kahuku Trail explores the traditional Hawaiian land classification system. Free. nps.gov/havo

Realms & Divisions of Kahuku, Sat, May 6, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Pu‘u Kahuku Trail explores the traditional Hawaiian land classification system. Free. nps.gov/havo

Ham Radio Operators Potluck Picnic, Sun, May 7, Manukā Park. All American Radio Emergency Service members, anyone interested in learning how to operate a ham radio and families are invited to attend. Dennis Smith, 989-3028

Hi‘iaka & Pele, Sun, May 7, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Discover the Hawaiian goddesses and the natural phenomena they represent on this free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps. gov/havo Painting with Peggy, Mon, M

Big Island Democrats held their annual convention on Saturday and talked about climate change,
the needs for the elderly, homelessness and other topics. Photo from Big Island Video News

NEW LEADERSHIP FOR THE HAWAI`I ISLAND DEMOCRATIC PARTY was named on Saturday at the annual convention, this year held in Kea`au. The new Chair is former County Council member Margaret Wille.
Gov. David Ige gave a talk. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard skyped in. Topics at the convention, attended by Ka`u Senator Russell Ruderman and Rep. Richard Creagan, included Climate Change, Homelessness and Elderly Needs, and the basics of How to Run for Office.

Margaret Wille to chair Democratic Party.
Photo from Big Island Video News

Ka`u's Raina Whiting, a Na`alehu school teacher, was named Secretary. Chair is former West Hawai`i Vice Chair is Tonya Coulter. East Hawai Vice Chair is Shannon Matson. Treasurer is Valerie Barnes. Assistant Secretary is Maya Parish and Assistant Treasurer is Richard Harris.
In a Big Island Video News interview, the new chair for the Big Island said that members of the leadership in the Democratic Party should "really earn their (letter) 'D'. Should every candidate be allowed to put a 'D' by their name, regardless of how they vote, or whether they block hearings on matters that are party priorities? I think there needs to be more accountability," said Wille.
"We need everyone to mobilize," said Wille. She said the day of the Democratic Party is "the first day of week." She called the convention "inspired" and said that all candidates who ran for office will be invited to serve with their skills and knowledge whether or not they gained an office.

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MAYOR HARRY KIM'S REVISED $491.2 MILLION COUNTY BUDGET is a 6.1 percent hike over last year's budget. It goes before the County Council on May 17. He released it on Friday.
The extra money, in the mayor's plan, is expected to come from an increase in property tax revenues by hiking rates for all properties with the exception of affordable rentals. The mayor also proposes more property tax savings for the elderly.

Mayor Kim expects higher property taxes and gas taxes to help
pay for the rising county budget. Image from Big Island Video News

A rise in the gas tax, planned for next year, would take it from 8.8 cents per gallon to 19 cents. An additional 2 percent increase each year would be levied until 23 cents per gallon becomes the new gas tax. Infrastructure would be the targeted use of gas tax income. Other priorities are upgrading police cars and the Hele-On Bus vehicles. Some costs that are rising are uncontrolled by the Mayor and County Council. They are statewide hikes in union-negotiated pay for government workers.
Cut short in the mayor's budget are the contingency funds for County Council members, that go to subsidizing non-profit organization's activities, such as Summer Fun in Ka`u this year. The mayor's islandwide budget for such spending has been slashed from $810,000 to $675,000 to be split up among the nine County Council members.

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HARVARD UNIVERSITY IS PROVIDING HAWAI`I VOLCANO OBSERVATORY the latest program to archive important earthquake data, reports USGS scientists in this week's Volcano Watch:

Seismology is often thought of as “earthquake science” because earthquakes—while not the only cause—are the most prolific producers of seisms, or earth shaking. The largest earthquakes ever recorded release many thousands of times more energy than the largest man-made explosions.

Thomas Jaggar working on his seismograph in 1913 at Volcano.
Photo from USGS

Continuous and systematic study of volcanic and related earthquake activity began at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory in 1912, when Professor Thomas Jaggar put his first seismographs into operation in HVO’s Whitney Laboratory. He purchased and installed these instruments to record the shaking produced by Hawai‘i’s active volcanoes and frequent earthquakes.

Through the early 1900s, led by Jaggar and other geological pioneers, seismic monitoring gradually spread around the world into areas known for earthquake and volcanic activity. During roughly this same time, mathematicians were developing the theoretical underpinnings of seismic wave generation and propagation.

At HVO, the seismic waves were initially recorded by a stylus that etched its squiggly trace into a layer of kerosene soot that coated glossy paper wrapped around the seismograph’s slowly rotating drum. Through the next 100 years, the recording media changed from smoked or soot-coated papers to photographic, then heat-sensitive papers, and finally to pen-and-ink before paper recording was discontinued in 2013.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory volunteer Marcy Frenz feeds seismogram

from the May 1982 Kīlauea south caldera earthquake flurry into a
large-format document scanner. Preserving stacks of paper earthquake
records as digital image files is an ongoing project at HVO.
USGS photo by S. Tsang

By then, HVO had moved to its fourth-generation of computer-based data acquisition, recording, and processing systems. In addition to automatically detecting and locating earthquakes, seismograms in digital format make it possible to more rigorously apply seismological theory toward a deeper understanding of seismic processes associated with active volcanoes.

With computer-based recording, adding stations or instruments is achieved with RAM, disk space, and clock-cycles. With paper recording, an additional instrument required an additional seismograph that produced another paper record per day. In the late 1960s, just as the U.S. Geological Survey began processing earthquake data in California on mainframe computers at Stanford University, the number of seismic paper records produced at HVO reached a peak of 30 per day. From 1912 to 2013, HVO collected nearly half-a-million paper seismograms.

HVO is by no means alone with its stacks upon stacks of paper seismograms. This is a common problem among seismic network operations, and the older the seismic network, the more records there are.

Creative storage solutions are sometimes exercised. The University of California’s Berkeley Seismological Laboratory stored seismograms from their 100-year-old collection in the Campanile clock and bell tower at the center of the university’s Berkeley campus.

The seismological community has long been striving to preserve historical seismograms for future researchers. Early efforts produced copies of seismograms on microfilm. Now, large-format digital scanners enable more groups to work through their stacks of paper seismograms and preserve them as digital image files.

With funding from USGS data rescue initiatives, HVO scanned seismograms from a number of significant earthquakes and seismic sequences. Since last summer, volunteer Marcy Frenz has enthusiastically and diligently assumed scanning duties at HVO, working through the 1974–1984 interval spanning Mauna Loa Volcano’s two most recent eruptions.

Motivated by the opportunity to renovate and upgrade their seismographic station, seismologists at Harvard University recovered and scanned records collected from 1933 to 1953. They also wrote a computer program that digitizes or extracts digital seismic traces from the squiggles captured by the scanner.

Harvard colleagues have generously shared their program with HVO. As HVO buids up its collection of scanned and digitized historical seismograms, the scientists say they look forward to exploring data recovered from these seismograms with analytical tools used on current and recent data that track changes in seismic wave properties within the volcanoes.

Visit the HVO website (http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov) for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea daily eruption updates, Mauna Loa weekly updates, volcano photos, recent earthquakes info, and more; call for summary updates at 808-967-8862 (Kīlauea) or 808-967-8866 (Mauna Loa); email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

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Ham Radio Operators Potluck Picnic, Sun, May 7,

Manukā Park. All American Radio Emergency Service members, anyone interested in learning how to operate a ham radio and families are invited to attend. Dennis Smith, 989-3028

Tiny Houses, 500 square feet or smaller, will be allowed on agriculturally zoned land for farmer housing
only, if Gov. David Ige signs the bill that passed the 2017 Hawai`i Legislature. Photo from One Island

THE TINY HOUSE INITIATIVE PASSED the 2017 session of the Hawai`i Legislature and awaits signature by Gov. David Ige. While the governor's chief of the state Department of Agriculture and the Hawai`i County Planning Director both gave testimony cautioning possible use of the tiny houses for tourists rather than farmers, the bill passed. It allows the County Council to enact local legislation to oversee the process to prevent misuse.
Hawai`i County Council passed a resolution to endorse the bill and it won unanimous approval from the Senate, after passing through the House of Representatives, with full support from Ka`u Rep. Richard Creagan.
The bill was opposed by Hawai`i Farm Bureau and its President Randy Cabral, a Ka`u rancher and former manager of macadamia operations. It was supported by Hawai`i Farmers Union United.

A sample of a tiny house that could be placed on a
farm for ag worker or farm owner.
Photo from One Island

The legislation allows tiny on-farm housing, under 500 sq ft, on permanent foundations or wheels, on agricultural lots being farmed on the Island of Hawai`i. This island is considered a test case for the measure intended to provide affordable farmer and farm worker housing and allow farmers to live close to their crops to take care of them and prevent theft.
Supporters of the Tiny House Initiative are asking citizens to provide comments to encourage the governor to sign the bill.
One Island, the community organization leading the charge for Tiny Houses on ag land, stated that "Meetings with Mayor Harry Kim, the Housing and Community Development team, County administrators, and the Planning Department Director are building a network of people ready to collaborate on County implementation when the time comes to turn this great idea into a viable reality. We are planning an island wide Housing Summit for Fall of 2017."
One Island sponsors Tiny House Community Conversation gatherings around the island, with more than 500 people attending to date. "These high-energy, standing-room-only meetings signal just how needed the Tiny House solution is, and show a diversity of needs and applications for smaller foot print housing options," states One Island on its website at www.oneisland.org.

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KA`U COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN public hearing is this Wednesday, May 10 at Na`alehu Community Center beginning at 5:30 p.m. Citizens can read the entire document at www.hawaiicountycdp.info. The hearing is before the Windward Planning Commission. When approved it will move to the County Council and then Mayor Harry Kim for his signature.
After approvals, a committee to help implement the plan will be selected from the community.

The Ornellas family is getting keiki ready for the
Miss Ka`u Coffee pageant this Saturday
at Ka`u Coffee Mill. Evalynn Ornellas is vying
for Miss Ka`u Coffee Flower.

The documents created to support the plan offer a detailed look at Ka`u, its history, geography, land use and possibilities for the future.

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MISS KA`U COFFEE CANDIDATES COMPETE THIS SATURDAY at Ka`u Coffee Mill. Showtime is 6 p.m. with beauty, smarts and talent on display.
Pageant director is Trini Marques.
Contending for Miss Ka`u Coffee are Jami Beck, Alysha Guystafson-Savella and Shaenese Tailon.
Aiming for Junior Miss Ka`u Coffee are Cristina Kawewehi, Calaysa Koi and Jacie Umemoto.
Competing for Miss Peaberry are Ava Estabilio-Lazar, Melo Keohuloa, Adriyana Lorenzo, Gwendolyn McEroy and Jazmynn Navarro.
Vying for Miss Ka`u Coffee Flower are Lylamae Lazar, Lilianna Marques, and Evalynn Ornellas.
Contenders have represented Ka`u Coffee in the Merrie Monarch Parade and visited Ka`u Coffee Mill and Ka`u Coffee farms to learn more about the industry that is sponsoring their pageant. The activities room at the new Ka`u District gym has provided the practice hall for the pageant.
Winners will receive scholarship money for titles and their talents. See stories about the contenders in Ka`u News Briefs all this week.

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REP. TULSI GABBARD IS INVITING HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS and adults to vote for the People's Choice Award from 13 finalists in her Fifth Annual Kaha Kiʻi Second Congressional District Art Competition. Voting is through the Gabbard Facebook Page where the public can select favorites. A gallery of the finalists’ artwork is now on display in the halls of the Hawaiʻi State Capitol. Each spring, the congresswoman sponsors the event to recognize and encourage creativity across Hawai‘i as part of a nationwide high school art competition with other Members of the U.S. House of Representatives.
Ka`u High School students can start creating works of art now and this summer for next year's competition but familiarize themselves by participating in this year's judging.

“I encourage everyone in the community to check out the art being showcased by these gifted students from across the state of Hawaiʻi. You will be impressed and inspired by their talent and
creativity,” said the Congresswoman.
“Our annual Kaha Kiʻi Congressional Art Competition is a great opportunity to recognize the creative abilities of Hawai`i’s young adults and encourages them to further pursue their artistic talents. The overall winner of the district-wide competition will be announced on May 13th in a ceremony at the Hawai‘i State Capitol. The first-place piece will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol alongside winners from all other congressional districts. The second-place and third-place pieces will be hung in Rep. Tulsi Gabbard’s Washington, DC and Hawaiʻi offices (respectively) for one year. All winners will be awarded with a cash prize.

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Miss Ka`u Coffee pageant contenders visit farms to support the farmers who gave new life to Ka`u
after the sugar industry shut down, 21 years ago this past April, before most of these girls were born.
The pageant is this Saturday at 6 p.m., at Ka`u Coffee Mill.
Photo from Pageant Director Trini Marques

CLEAN, RENEWABLE ENERGY BY 2050 is a bill in the U.S. Senate signed on by Sen. Brian Schatz, along with Sen. Bernie Sanders and others. Schatz released a statement this morning, the day after former President Barack Obama was presented the Profile in Courage award at the John F. Kennedy Library in Boston. Obama talked about Kennedy's attitude of never giving up on being optimistic, hopeful and courageous and pointed to "fighting the good fight" on such issues as equal rights, climate change and "doing big things."

Sen. Brian Schatz quoted John Kennedy today, the day after his Presidential
Library gave Barack Obama the Profile in Courage Awars. See video of
the ceremony at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXEAZ5XcwxA

In his own statement, Schatz quoted Kennedy who said, “We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win...”

Wrote Schatz, "In the face of all of his doubters, and in a space race he was losing to the Soviet Union, JFK pledged to do something we could only dream of at the time -- land a man on the moon.
We don’t do this anymore in America. We don’t go big, we don’t go bold. Even on issues that demand big and bold action. But I believe we should rekindle this fire in our spirit. And ensure that America leads on the biggest issue facing the planet -- climate change."
Schatz called the new renewable energy bill "landmark legislation and warned, "Big oil, gas, and every other dirty energy lobby will attack us. They will say, 'How can we do this? We don’t have the technology or the ability.' My response to them -- how can we not?

Sen. Brian Schatz

"And while we may not pass this bill in the next year, this legislation, and what it represents, is incredibly important. This shifts the discussion in a big way to how we do this, not if we can. And it will drive technological advances that we can only dream of now.
"We’ve seen this in my home state of Hawai`i. We’re an island state, highly dependent on oil. But that didn’t stop us from thinking big and passing the Hawai`i Clean Energy Initiative -- pledging to move to a 100% renewable energy portfolio by 2045.
"Since the passage of this initiative, we’ve seen growth every single year in renewable energy and now are on track to hit this big goal. Would we have made such big advances without legislation? No way.
"We can think big, drive innovation, and build a clean energy future to save our planet, but only if we all are ready to fight for it. The entire country went all-in on the space race, and I believe it will take that same type of energy now to fight climate change." Schatz asks citizens, " Will you add your name next to mine as a co-sponsor?"

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Lane Ueda will help families sign up fir LIHEAP this summer.
Photo by Julia Neal

LIHEAP, THE LOW INCOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM, will come to Ka`u again in June. Through the Office of Economic Opportunity, each summer managed for Ka`u by Na`alehu School teacher Lane Ueda, it provides assistance for households who are on the verge of utility termination or have been terminated with 60 days of the application. It also provides a non-crisis energy credit program to assist households with utility bill paymenTs.
Members of eligible households must be U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents.
All adults must sign the application and provide a picture ID.

All household members over one year of age must provide a social security card.
Qualified recipients must have a place or resident, be responsible for an electricity and/or gas bill. Income must be below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Level.
Federal Poverty Level incomes are up to the following: $20,505 for a household of one; $27,645 for a household of two; $34,785 for a household of three; $41,925 for a household of four; $49,065 for a household of five; $56,205 for a household of six; $63.345 for a household of seven; and $70,515 for a household of eight.

Rapid Ohia Death killing a tree on Chain of
Craters Road. NPS photo

Household members can apply in Na`alehu and the Hawai1`i County Economic Opportunity Council office, in back of the Senior Center on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Applications will be taken at Ocean View Community Center on Tuesdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Pahala location is the Edmund C. Olson Trust Building in Pahala, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m., excepg June 12 and 16.
Applicants must bring in a current electric or gas bill; proof of residence; Social Security numbers; picture id's; proof of age and any disability; proof of income, and, when appropriate, proof of non-citizen status. See http://www.hceoc.net/programs/energy/

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Coffee With A Cop is 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Wed., May 10 at the Ace Hardware parking lot in Na`alehu. Meet local police officers in a casual, no-agenda atmosphere and talk story as part of National Coffee With a Cop Day.

Lā‘au Lapa‘au. Wed., May 10 at 10 a.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. Delve into the world of lā‘au lapa‘au, Hawaiian herbal medicine, with local practitioner Momi Subiono. She uses herbs to help the Hawaiian community and aims to create awareness, understanding, and use of plants for traditional healing. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ‘Ike Hana No‘eau “Experience the Skillful Work” workshops. Free.

Managing Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Fri., May 12 at 5:30 p.m. at Cooper Center in Volcano Village.‘Ōhi‘a, Metrosideros polymorpha, the keystone Hawaiian forest species, is under attack by Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death, or ROD. The park is working with partners, land managers, scientists, and outreach specialists throughout Hawai‘i to respond to this threat. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Ecologist David Benitez will share the lessons we have learned since ROD was first identified in 2014, and discuss what we are doing to manage ROD within and beyond park boundaries. Free.

Meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor

Center at 8:45 a.m. on May 12, 20 and 26 at 9 a.m. to help

remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent

native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes

National Park. NPS photo

Stewardship at the Summit. Volunteers are needed May 12, 20 and 26 to help remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meet at Kilauea Visitor Center at 8:45 a.m.

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.

The state Office of Early Learning is hoping for more enrollment of Pre-Kindergarten next
semester at Na`alehu School. Enrollment is now open for both Pahala and Na`alehu. See
story below. Photo from Executive Office on Early Learning

PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP'S FIRING OF FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION DIRECTOR James Comey today drew quick comments from Hawai`i Senators Mazie Hirono and Brian Schatz. Hirono called for a special prosecutor and independent investigation into Russian ties to the Trump Presidential campaign, which the FBI under Comey has allegedly been investigating.

Stated Hirono, “The President’s decision to fire FBI Director James Comey in this manner, under this pretext, and at this time is a total disservice to the American people. The country is asking, Mr. President, what do you have to hide?"

Sen. Mazie Hirono earlier questioned Comey about his treatment of
candidate Hillary Clinton's handling of emails, then today questioned
Comey's sudden firing by Pres. Donald Trump. C-SPAN image

Hirono contended that “There is no question that President Trump wants the investigation of Russian interference with the 2016 Presidential election, and the Trump team’s ties to those efforts, to just go away. Knowing this, it is hard to interpret the decision to fire Director Comey as being motivated by anything other than a desire to shut down or derail the FBI’s investigation. In fact, it only raises further suspicions about the Trump team’s ties to Russian interference in our election. For months, I have called for a special prosecutor and an independent investigation into this serious matter. We need a special prosecutor who will conduct an impartial, thorough investigation untainted by political considerations.”

Schatz declared on Twitter, "We are in a full-fledged constitutional crisis." He said, "Lots of justified confusion and outrage. We need to be prepared to come back together, regardless of party,and take our democracy back." He called the firing, "Scary and unprecedented. At some point we are going to need patriotic Republicans to stand up for our republic." Schatz said that the "arguments against establishing a Special Prosecutor were weak in the first place. They have now evaporated."

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PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE KA`U COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN is Wednesday, May 10 at 5:30 p.m. at Na`alehu Community Center. The hearing is before the Windward Planning Commission. Discovery Harbour residents are expected to bring up various zoning issues regarding commercial and resort development, as well as development of convenience stores and other residential amenities. Once approved, the plan goes to the County Council and the Mayor for
approval. After approval and advisory committee will be selected to help guide the plan forward.

Maria Emilia Garcia Schenkeir

had everyone tapping toes,

clapping hands and joining in

as she sang popular Spanish songs

while energetically dancing.

Photo by Ann Bosted

COFFEE WITH A COP is 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 10 at the Ace Hardware parking lot in Na`alehu. Meet local police officers in a casual, no-agenda atmosphere and talk story as part of National Coffee With a Cop Day.

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THE SAINT JUDE'S FREE HOT SHOWER PROGRAM to provide free weekly showers for Ocean View residents without access to hot water received a big splash of support from Cinco de Mayo last Friday.

About 55 people attended the Cinco de Mayo fund-raising dinner at St. Jude's Church in Ocean View.
The Free Hot Shower program began in September, 2013. A free hot meal was unintentionally added when a member of the congregation brought left over food to share with the residents who came to shower. It became a popular tradition and now each week hot food, usually soup and bread, is provided with the shower.
The Cinco de Mayo event was very festive. Guests sat at tables that were covered in green, white and red, while the walls were decorated with sombreros. Many of the guests came in costume, and Maria Emilia Garcia Schenkeir entertained diners with her Spanish singing and dancing, while many clapped. The Mexican-style food was cooked and served by volunteers in the congregation.

Pastor Constance Garrett (R) enjoyed the Cinco de Mayo feast

with Sandy Shelton (L), who has a flower business and

normally decorates for weddings. She decorated the walls

and tables to give the dinner a festive air. Photo by Ann Bosted

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RAT LUNGWORM DISEASE IS THE LEAD STORY in this month's state Department of Health Publication O Lokahi, Creating a Healthy Hawai`i Together. Entitled What You Should Know About Rat Lung Disease, the article points to the disease being "a high-profile story reported by the local, national and international news media." Ka`u's County Council member Maile David recommended today that her constituent read up on the disease.

The DOH story says that the most common symptoms of rat lungworm disease include severe headache and neck stiffness, but symptoms may vary widely among individuals. Those experiencing headache, fever, stiff neck, tingling or painful feelings in the skin or extremities should seek immediate medical attention, DOH cautions.

Slugs in Ka`u gardens, lawns and on this Pahala pavement
can carry Rat Lungworm Disease. Photo by Julia Neal

DOH reports confirmation of 14 cases of Rat Lund Disease in Hawai`i so far this year and reminds the public: RLW, or Angiostrongyliasis, is a rare disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by a parasitic worm found in rats, slugs and snails. Unlike many other diseases, Angiostrongyliasis cannot be spread from person-to-person. People can get infected by eating raw or undercooked snails or slugs that are infected with the parasite. People have also become infected by eating unwashed raw produce such as leafy greens that contain a tiny snail or slug or parts of one.
There is no medication or specific treatment for the disease but most recover fully without treatment.
DOH notes that Hawai`i remains a very safe travel destination. Of the 8.7 million visitors in 2015, there was one case of RLW reported in a visitor, one visitor case in 2016 and two visitor cases in 2017.

To prevent Rat Lungworm Disease: Make sure to properly store, inspect and wash produce, especially leafy greens. Supervise young children playing outdoors to prevent them from putting a snail or slug in their mouths. Take precautions to control slug, snails and rats around homes and workplaces, especially home gardens. Farmers, as well as food handlers and processors, should control slugs, snails, and rats on the farm. Those handling snails or slugs should wear gloves and wash hands.
The DOH stresses that locally-grown produce is safe to eat. "Just remember to wash all vegetables and fruits thoroughly no matter where they come from," says the article.
Food safety inspectors regularly distribute information to the food food industry, including at farmers’ markets where flyers are passed out to vendors and shoppers. DOH’s Food Safety Program continues to inspect and educate food establishments across the state for safe food handling and preparation. Food establishments are reminded to use only approved and licensed sources and carefully inspect and wash all produce during food preparation.
More information on the signs and symptoms of rat lungworm infection are on the DOH website at: www.health.hawaii.gov.

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PREKINDERGARTEN, which started in Ka`u public schools three years ago, will be offered again next school year at Pahala and Na`alehu Elementary Schools. Corine Suwa Kalani, Early Learning Resource Teacher in the Executive Office on Early Learning, quoted Bill Gates, Co-Chair of the Gates Foundation on the reason for pre-kindergaren. Gates said, "The first five years have so much to

"The first five years have so much to do with how the next 80 years turn out,"
said Bill Gates, whose foundation supports Early Learning initiatives.
Photo from the state Executive Office on Early Learning

do with how the next 80 years turn out."

Organizers are hoping for more enrollment at Na`alehu School. The state Department of Education has opened the enrollment and families can download the application for both Pahala and Na`alehu from www.earlylearning.hawaii.gov or www.hawaiipublicschools.org or pick them up and return them to the school.

Children must be age four on or before July 31 of the current school year. For school year 2017-2018, children born Aug. 1, 2012- July 31, 2013 are eligible. The program is open to families earning 250 percent or less of the Federal Poverty Level. Families of two can earn up to $46,675, families of three up to $58,700. Families of four can earn up to $70,275, families of five up to $82,750, families of six up to $94,776, families of seven up to $106,800 and families of eight up to $118,825 per year.

Enrollment for each class is limited to 20 students.

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Ka’u’s finest were on hand to welcome community members to join them for coffee and cookies at the Na’alehu
farmers’ market outside Ace Hardware on Wednesday. From left to right are Officers Bill Doar, Douglas
Phillips, “Danny,” Aron Tomota, Clayton Tayamen, and Capt. Kenneth Quiocho. Photo by Ann Bosted

COPS WITH COFFEE were met by Ka’u residents in Na’alehu on Wednesday. Public and police officers enjoyed the the opportunity to talk story in an informal setting while sipping coffee and eating cookies. The event, billed as National Coffee With A Cop Day, was the first ever held in Ka’u.
Ka’u police set up a shade shelter, tables and chairs and plugged in a coffee machine to welcome shoppers at the weekly Na’alehu farmers’ market to sit down and relax. Captain Kenneth Quiocho, who has been the leader of the district’s police force since the beginning of March, was clearly pleased with the community’s response.
“People came up to talk to us about their concerns about crime and other police matters, which was what we hoped would happen,” he explained. “They also let us know that we are doing a good job, which we appreciated”.
Asked to comment on the reduction of burglaries in Ocean View, Quiocho said: “I am very happy with the part the community has played in that. We are getting together and working together and being successful”. Reported burglaries in Ocean View numbered 21 in January, 11 in February, three in March and four in April. Quiocho added that the police and the community still have a lot of work to do there.

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A POLICE CRACK DOWN ON CRIME was reported by Ocean View’s community policing officers, Aron Tomota and Clayton Tayamen, during the May Neighborhood Watch meeting. The police officers reported to residents on the results, saying that burglaries in Hawai`i Ocean View Estates had been reduced from 21 in January, to 11 in February to 3 in March and then 4 in April. (For more on the crack down, please read the April 18 Ka`u News Briefs.) Tomota reported that in April there were no reports of stolen vehicles or car break ins. There were, however, 5 assaults, 3 criminal property damage and 10 cases of theft reported.
Neighborhood Watch meetings are held at the Ocean View Community Center on the first Thursday of each month, starting at 6 p.m.

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ABANDONED VEHICLES CONTRIBUTE TO COUNTY COFFERS, according to Tiffany Wallace, the Abandoned Vehicle Coordinator, who told a recent Ocean View meeting that a new program allows those vehicles in good condition to be auctioned by the county.
She cautioned those at the meeting against parking or abandoning vehicles in public roadways for more than 24 hours, as the bill for the fines, towing and storage can amount to $1,000. The vehicles can also be auctioned off.

Abandoned vehicles draw fines, towing and storage that can add up to $1000. Photo by Ann Bosted.

“We have had three auctions so far,” she said, noting that “Maui has a similar program which has proved to be successful. “Our first auction was in October 2015 and we sold 66 vehicles for a total of $21,208. Our second auction was February 2016, where 31 vehicles were auctioned for $14,149 and our most recent auction in October moved 39 vehicles for $12,912.” The income from auction helps recoup the cost of hauling away abandoned vehicles.
Wallace and her colleague, Juliana Holzman, were invited to attend a monthly Ocean View Neighborhood Watch meeting, to inform the 30 attendees of how the county deals with the growing problems of abandoned vehicles on public and private roads. They cautioned that dumping vehicles anywhere is a crime, and the owner of the vehicle can be fined and will be required to pay all the charges associated with removing and disposing of the vehicle.
Owners of inoperable cars should take them to a scrap metal operator, such as Big Island Scrap Metal (854-4530) in Kona and Kea’au.
“You need to report any vehicle that is parked on a roadway,” Wallace told the community. “The sooner the better, so we can get it removed before it becomes an eyesore. You should dial the police non-emergency number, 935-3311 and report the specific location, the license plate number, make of the vehicle, its color and how long it has been parked.”
After reporting the abandoned vehicle to the police non-emergency line an officer is dispatched to see if the vehicle is still there. The car must be in the easement of a public road to be tagged with a warning. The owner is advised to move the vehicle within 24 hours. If the vehicle is not moved in that time, the police make a report.
After the police officer’s report is approved, it is sent to Traffic Services Section of the police department. The TSS then forwards the report to the Abandoned Vehicles Program (phone 961-8552), within the County Department of Environmental Management.

While derelict vehicles can be sold for scrap metal, vehicles that run can be auctioned off
by the County of Hawai`i. Photo by Ann Bosted

The Abandoned Vehicles Coordinator then makes arrangements for the vehicle to be towed within 72 hours. If it is derelict, it is taken to a waste metal recovery site, otherwise it is impounded and the owner is notified. The registered owner is then charged for the towing and storage of the vehicle.
“If the owner does not reclaim the car within ten days, it can be auctioned”, explained Wallace.
Asked about inoperable vehicles stored on private property, Wallace referred The Ka’u Calendar to the County Planning Department. A spokesman for that department said that the limit is set by area. If the department receives a complaint, officials will follow it up in the order in which it comes in. The Planning Department’s number is 323-4770, ask for zoning violations.
Generally, if inoperable cars cover more than 200 square feet, the owners are violating the junkyard zoning regulation. Junkyards are permitted uses in industrial areas, but not agricultural or rural areas. The owners can be ordered to remove the cars, but this is done after considering each individual case. Generally, two cars cover about 200 square feet, so, depending on the size of the vehicle, three cars can be over the limit.
If investigators find that the owner of the lot is in violation of the zoning regulation, the owner will be asked to remove the vehicles. If the owner does not comply, the Planning Department issues a formal notice of violation, with an order to remove the offending vehicles. If the violation continues, the owner of the lot can be fined up to $100 per day, until the violation is ended.
Vehicles abandoned on private roads are also considered a violation and the County can order the association to remove them at the association’s expense.

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REP. TULSI GABBARD WEIGHED IN WEDNESDAY ON FIRED FBI DIRECTOR James Comey. She said that "his abrupt firing further undermines the American people's trust in the FBI and its investigation. Two things need to happen now: We need a non-partisan FBI Director who can be trusted by all the American people," and "The investigation into the Trump campaign and Russia must be carried forward in a fair, non-partisan, thorough way. This is why I've long called for an independent commission or special prosecutor to conduct this investigation in a way that is transparent," said Gabbard.

James Comey, left, was investigating the Trump campaign's connections
to Russian influence when Pres. Donald Trump fired him on Tuesday.
Photos from CNN

SEN. MAZIE HIRONO RENEWED HER CALL FOR SPECIAL INVESTIGATOR: "President Trump thinks that firing FBI Director James Comey is not a big deal. The president’s shibai arguments for Comey’s firing can’t disguise this blatant attempt to slow down the FBI’s investigation into Russian interference with our election and the Trump team’s ties to Russia’s efforts. As we say in Hawai`i, it’s all for show.
"Every hour, it seems like there are new revelations -- grand juries, subpoenas, even (Trump Chief of Staff) Sean Spicer hiding in the bushes to avoid answering questions. What’s clear is that we can’t take Trump and his administration at their word.
"For months, I have called for an independent investigation of the Trump administration’s ties with the Russian government. This latest Trump action only points to the importance of a special prosecutor to get to the bottom of the Russia/Trump matter.
"Join me -- and thousands across the country -- in calling for a special prosecutor to investigate the Trump administration’s ties with the Russian government. This is an unprecedented situation and the Russian attack on our democracy cannot be allowed to stand. Our country’s future is at stake.
"Join the fight to protect our democracy. Call for a special prosecutor to investigate the Trump administration’s ties to Russia.

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"EVERY PATRIOTIC AMERICAN SHOULD DEMAND A SPECIAL PROSECUTOR," tweeted Sen. Brian Schatz on Wednesday. "We need Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Deputy Attorney General Rosenstean to come to the Hill to explain what happened and in what order. Lots of mind-bending explanations. Sometimes things are not what they appear to be. This is not one of those times."

RUDY GUILIANI COULD BE THE NEXT FBI DIRECTOR, cautioned the Democratic National Committee in a statement from Chair Tom Perez on Wednesday. "Now that Donald Trump has fired James Comey, he gets to appoint the next FBI Director to a 10-year term. He could pick anyone -- even, for example, a former campaign surrogate like Rudy Giuliani, who spent last night praising Trump's decision from (where else?) the lobby of Trump's new Washington hotel.

"And the only check on Donald Trump's appointment would be the Senate GOP -- the same senators who rushed through the confirmations of Jeff Sessions, Betsy DeVos, and Neil Gorsuch. "That's why we must have an independent investigation into Trump and Russia led by a special prosecutor -- someone whose loyalties will be to the American people, not Donald Trump.
"This investigation isn't about politics. It's about our national security, the integrity of our elections, and the future of our democracy. We cannot allow it to be buried by a corrupt administration and complicit Republican leaders in Congress.
"Senator Ron Wyden said it best last night: 'in America, the truth always comes out.' This independent investigation is how we make that happen."

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A DAMAGED FIBER OPTIC CABLE took down cell phone, internet and phone service for most residents on the westside of the island today, from Kona to Ka`u. Hawai`i County Civil Defense reported the outage at 10:40 a.m., stating that "Hawaiian Telcom reports a fiber optic break in the area of Hwy 190 and Hwy 200 (Daniel K. Inouye junction). Communications will be affected along the western portion of the island from Ka`u through Kona. If you are unable to access the counties 911 system and require medical, fire or police please go directly to your nearest police or fire station for assistance. Crews are on scene to repair the break.

At 1 p.m. Civil Defense reported that repairs were made and service restored, including all 911 lines.

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VOLCANO SCHOOL OF THE ARTS & SCIENCES Theater Night on Thursday, May 11 at 6 p.. at Kilauea Millitary Camp's Kilauea Theater. Under direction of KDEN's Suzi Bond, each class presents a one-act play. Free. Park entrance fees may apply.

Miss Ka`u Coffee Rochelle Koi
will pass the torch on Saturday.
Photo by Pam Taylor

RED CROSS VOLUNTEER MEETING, Thursday, May 11 at 7 p.m. HOVE Maintenance Corp. office. 929-9953.

MANAGING RAPID OHI'A DEATH at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Friday, May 12 at 5:30 p.m. at Cooper Center in Volcano Village. ‘Ōhi‘a, Metrosideros polymorpha, the keystone Hawaiian forest species, is under attack by Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death, or ROD. The park is working with partners, land managers, scientists, and outreach specialists throughout Hawai‘i to respond to this threat. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Ecologist David Benitez will share the lessons learned since ROD was first identified in 2014, and discuss managing ROD within and beyond park boundaries. Free.

MISS KA`U COFFEE ROCHELLE KOI will pass the crown to a new Miss Ka`u Coffee this Saturday night at Ka`u Coffee Mill with the show and pageant starting at 6 p.m. Competitors will vy for Miss Ka`u Coffee, Junior Miss Ka`u Coffee, Miss Peaberry and Ka`u Coffee Flower in a pageant directed by Ka`u Coffee farmer Trini Marques. The pageant begins two weeks of Ka`u Coffee Festival events. See www.kaucoffeefest.com.

Candidates for Miss Ka`u Coffee, Jr. Miss Ka`u Coffee, Miss Peaberry and the Ka`u Coffee Flower

converge of Ka`u Coffee farms to get ready for this Saturday's pageant at 6 p.m. at Ka`u Coffee Mill.

Photo from Pageant Director Trini Marques

DISCOVERY HARBOUR AND SHORELINE PROTECTION were topics of public testimony on Ka`u Community Development Plan items during Hawai`i County Windward Planning Commission’s meeting in Na`alehu on Wednesday. A large contingent of Discovery Harbour residents attended, and possible development there was the focus of much of the testimony given under oath.

“Leave us alone,” said one Discovery Harbour resident concerned about a possible resort there. She said such a development is a “all about money,” without considering residents’ wishes.
Another resident, a teacher at Ka`u Learning Academy, told commissioners that a resort would provide much needed jobs. She said that many of her students’ parents must travel long distances to work, reducing family time at home. She also said that students express concern about having to leave Ka`u to make a living in the future.
“Having a resort there is not going to take away from the beauty of Ka`u,” another resident said. She said there is a lack of accommodations here and that a resort would provide visitors with a reason to stay in Ka`u longer.
Kama`oa Road resident Jim Simpson said, “Ka`u doesn’t need to change anymore. We don’t want that stuff.” He stressed that “it is important we keep it as it is.”
Regarding the CDP’s call to establish a one-quarter mile development setback from the shoreline, Carlsmith Ball lawyer Katherine Carson said, “Policy 28 is unconstitutional.” She said it is in conflict with Hawai`i County’s General Plan, when CDPs should be in agreement with it. She urged the commission to “carefully consider” the policy to “avoid conflict.”
Regarding the proposed setback, CDP Steering Committee member Michelle Galimba told commissioners, “We can no longer take for granted that Ka`u will be protected” without help. She said the committee considered even larger distances but settled on one-quarter mile.
Two more testifiers focused on keiki. In Ka`u, “kids can still be kids,” not the relative safety in the district. Another, who came to Ka`u from Colorado, said it is “important that this place stays the way it is for kids.”

A 3.3 earthquake struck near the Great Crack area in Ka`u on Wednesday

near Pahala. Map from USGS

Commissioner Miles Miyasato told the audience he is very familiar with Ka`u’s assets. He said he spent much time working on land from Na`alehu to the Ka`u Coast. He said he learned to work cattle at Na`alehu Rodeo Arena.
Chair Gregory Henkel thanked the community, the Steering Committee and Planning Department staff for their many years of hard work. “We value all of your input,” he said.

The commission’s second hearing on the Ka`u CDP takes place on Thursday, June 1 at 9 a.m. at Aupuni Center Conference Room in Hilo. Following commission approval within 60 days of that, Hawai`i County Council will consider the plan at public meetings. After council approval, the plan goes to Mayor Harry Kim for his signature.

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AN EARTHQUAKE registering 3.3 in the richter scale, struck near Pahala this last afternoon at 4:45 p.m. The center of the shake was 7km ENE of Pahala toward Volcano, makai of Hwy 11. No damage was reported.

HOMELESSNESS DECREASED BY 32 PERCENT IN HAWAI`I COUNTY, according to the annual Point in Time count—a census of people experiencing homelessness. It showed a nine percent overall decrease in the number of homeless individuals across the state compared to the same period last year. The 2017 count found 7,220 homeless individuals across the state of Hawai‘i compared to 7,921 in 2016.

“I commend the many partners who have gotten out of their silos, come to the table and rolled up their sleeves. Together, we are finding more efficient ways to move people off the streets and into homes. This report is proof that our collective efforts are working,” said Gov. David Ige. “While today’s news indicates that the tide has turned, there is more to do. My administration remains focused on increasing affordable housing and reducing homelessness in the State of Hawai‘i.”

While Hawai‘i County saw the largest decrease at 32 percent, Maui County saw a 22 percent decline and Kaua‘i County a seven percent drop compared to 2016. O‘ahu saw an increase of less than a half percent in the number homeless individuals.

A link to the overview of Point in Time’s full report, compiled by Hawai‘i’s two Continuums of Care—Bridging the Gap and Partners in Care—can be found on the governor’s website at governor.hawaii.gov

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PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP'S TIES TO RUSSIA, "and interference in our democracy," are the crying calls for Sen. Mazie Hirono who took to the Senate floor this week advocating for the appointment of a special prosecutor to investigate. Hirono said:

Sen. Mazie Hirono again takes to Senate floor, calling for investigation
of Trump ties to Russia.

“Most recently, the Washington Post reported that Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein threatened to resign after the White House misrepresented his role in the decision to fire Director (James) Comey. CNN reported that President Trump fired Director Comey because he would not provide ‘assurance of personal loyalty.’ And both CNN and the Wall Street Journal reported that the decision to fire Director Comey came after the FBI’s investigation was accelerating.

“This kind of presidential interference in an ongoing investigation is unprecedented, suspicious, and deeply concerning. These revelations, and those that are sure to come, further argue in favor of appointing a special prosecutor to fully investigate the Russia/Trump matter. A special prosecutor with full autonomy can follow the evidence wherever it leads and prosecute as appropriate. I call upon Republicans of conscience to stand up and join the call for a special prosecutor.”

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REP. TULSI GABBARD CHARACTERIZES FIRING of FBI Director James Comey: "His abrupt firing further undermines the American people's trust in the FBI and its investigation. Two things need to happen now. We need a non-partisan FBI Director who can be trusted by all the American people. The investigation into the Trump campaign and Russia must be carried forward in a fair, non-partisan, thorough way. This is why I’ve long called for an independent commission or special prosecutor to conduct this investigation in a way that is transparent."

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A LOCAL ECONOMIES FESTIVAL will feature locally produced food, arts and crafts, music and much more on Saturday, June 24 at Wood Valley Farm above Pahala. According to a release from Wood Valley Farm owner Malian Lahey and organizers, "Local Economies Festival brings people together to build an economic system that is locally self-reliant in basic needs and interconnected globally by an intricate network of small-scale business relationships that are win-win and supportive. The Local Economies Festival shines a light on our economic behavior and how we can use our purchasing power to help our communities thrive."

Lahey also announced that Democratic Party Chair Tim Vandeveer will be in Pahala for the Local Economies Festival and can meet with interested parties there. The physical address for the festival site is 96-2384 Wood Valley Road.

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MANAGING RAPID OHI'A DEATH at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Friday, May 12 at 5:30 p.m. at Cooper Center in Volcano Village. ‘Ōhi‘a, Metrosideros polymorpha, the keystone Hawaiian forest species, is under attack by Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death, or ROD. The park is working with partners, land managers, scientists, and outreach specialists throughout Hawai‘i to respond to this threat. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Ecologist David Benitez will share the lessons learned since ROD was first identified in 2014, and discuss managing ROD within and beyond park boundaries. Free.

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MISS KA`U COFFEE PAGEANT with categories from tiny Ka`u Coffee Flower girls to college students sees the compeition this Saturday night at Ka`u Coffee Mill.

The show and pageant start at 6 p.m. Competitors will vy for Miss Ka`u Coffee, Junior Miss Ka`u Coffee, Miss Peaberry and Ka`u Coffee Flower in a pageant directed by Ka`u Coffee farmer Trini Marques. The pageant begins two weeks of Ka`u Coffee Festival events. See www.kaucoffeefest.com.

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Miss Ka`u Coffee Pageant will take place Saturday evening at 6 p.m. at Ka`u Coffee Mill, under the direction of
Ka`u Coffee farmer Trini Marques who also directed the 2016 pageant with winners above.
Photo by Pamela Taylor

PEOPLE ARE HOMELESS WHEN THEY RUN OUT OF RELATIONSHIPS, declared Dr. Kimo Alameda on Thursday when speaking at the Exchange Club, a service organization operating for more than 40 years on the island. Alameda is the Executive Director of the Hawai`i County Office on Aging and was responding to this week's report on a reduction in homelessness on the Big Island.
"People become homeless not because they ran out of money, initially at least. I think they become homeless because they ran out of relationships. Think about it. If I lose my house tomorrow, I get one sister that can take me in. I think anybody in here would say Kimo, I get one extra garage, right?"

Dr. Kimo Alameda talked about improvements in the homelessness
situation on the island and the need to help the homeless with their
relationships, in addition to providing housing.
Photo from Big Island Video News

"I think when we stop caring and we stop connecting, the result is homelessness," he said.
Alameda talked about the idea of supportive housing that can help people with more than their money problems. "Your house is not affordable if you're on drugs. Because that's not the priority. Your house not affordable if you get mental health issues and you cannot sustain employment, right? So, in addition to one house, you need that support, and that support comes from the community - us. not them guys - you now.
"It's not Hope Services problem. It's not the county's problem. It's all of our problem," said Alameda. He applauded the success of the county and agencies working on homelessness and it being reduced 32 percent over the last year. He credited Mayor Harry Kim for looking at the homelessness as not a project but as "people."
He also credited kupuna for whom he works at the Office on Aging with inspiring him with a positive outlook to help with such issues as homelessness.
See his complete speech at www.bigislandvideonews.com.

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PROJECTS FOR KA`U are in the new State of Hawai`i budget, recently passed by the Hawai`i Legislature. More than $300 million in funding goes to Hawai`i Island. Some $5.4 million is for nonprofit organizations on this island.
Ka`u projects include covered walkways for Na`alehu Elementary School, costing $1.2 million. Department of Hawaiian Home Lands will have money for projects in this area as part of $2 million for Big Island development.
Both airports used by Ka`u residents receive funding with $14.8 million for Kona International Airport and $19.3 million for Hilo International Airport.
Road and Highway improvements are budgeted for $20.8 million for Mamalahoa Highway alone. In Ka`u the Ninole and Hilea Bridges, which have elderly wooden construction beneath the pavement, are set for replacement.
A medium security housing project for Hawai`i Community Correctional Center is funded with $13.2 million.
Telehalth at Hilo Medical Center receives $2 million in funding.
Hawai`i Community College receives $700,000 for a trades and apprenticeship program and new physics lab and classroom. University of Hawai`i at Hilo gets $3 million in air conditioning.

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MY HAWAI`I STORY, the statewide environmental writing contest for middle school students in sixth, seventh and eighth grade, has announced the top 25 poems and short stories. This year's theme was He Wa'a, He Moku- Mālama Honua, celebrating the return of Hokule'a to Hawai'i from the Worldwide Voyage.

An anthology of the stories and poems will be published and distributed to schools, libraries and online at the website of Hawai`i Conservation Alliance, which sponsored the competition. Locally, Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, Friends of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, Hawai`i Department of Land & Natural Resources, Hawai`i Department of Education and other agencies are partners in the project.
The students' writing represents personal reflections on the environment, cultural values, kuleana, stewardship and place-based writing. See the winners and how to become involved for next year at www.hawaiiconservation.org.

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MISS KA`U COFFEE PAGEANT is Saturday, May 13 at Ka`u Coffee Mill at 6 p.m.
Competing for Miss Ka`u Coffee are Jami Beck, Alysha Gustafson-Savella and Shanese Tailon.
Scholarship Sponsors are the Edmund C. Olson Trust, Ka`u Mahi, Ka`u Valley Farm, Pacific Quest, Punalu`u Bake Shop, CU Hawai`i Federal Credit Union, Ka`u Local Products, Sen. Russell Ruderman, Sen. Josh Green, Rep. Richard Creagan and County Council member Maile David.
Younger ladies will compete in Jr. Miss Ka`u Coffee, Miss Ka`u Coffee Peaberry and Miss Ka`u Coffee Flower competitions.
The pageant is directed by Ka`u Coffee farmer Trini Marques with much support from the Ka`u Coffee Growers Cooperative members and other coffee farming families in the region.
Judges are Joyce Ibasan, Maria Miranda, Christina Tandoc Rana and Tara Compehos.
The event marks the first activity of the ninth annual Ka`u Coffee Festival. See www.kaucoffeefest.com.

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Haunani's Aloha Expressions perform next Wednesday at

Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium

HAUNANI'S ALOHA EXPRESSIONS entertain next Wednesday, May 17 at 6:30 p.m. at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Enjoy an evening of music and hula of Haunani’s Aloha Expressions. With their handmade colorful costumes and lei, these energetic kūpuna have competed at, and won, various hula festivals. They bring to life the magic of old Hawai‘i. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing Nā Leo Manu Heavenly Voices presentations. Free.

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Miss Ka`u Coffee 2017 Court, the pageant held Saturday evening at Ka`u Coffee Mill. Photo by Pam Taylor

JAMI BECK IS MISS KA`U COFFEE 2017. The 18-year old University of Hawai`i - Hilo student who lives in Wai`ohinu swept all categories at the Miss Ka`u Coffee Pageant held Saturday night at The Drying Room at Ka`u Coffee Mill. Beck earned titles of Miss Popularity, Photogenic and Congeniality and won the Swimsuit, Evening Gown, Career Outfit and Interview trophies.

Jami Beck is Miss Ka`u Coffee 2017, a graduate of
Ka`u High and student at University of Hawai`i- Hilo
planning a career with the National Park Service.
Photo by Pam Taylor

Beck is the daughter of James Beck and Ka`u High & Elementary School Principal Sharon Beck. She grew up in Ka`u and graduated from Ka`u High School. She is seeking a Bachelor's Degree in Administration of Justice and works for Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.
Her win marks the second time in two years that a Hawa`i Volcanoes National Park student ranger wins the Miss Ka`u Coffee title. Last year's winner was Michelle Koi.
Beck seeks a career with the National Park Service in Interpretation, or Law Enforcement.
As Miss Ka`u Coffee 2017, Beck earned a $1500 scholarship from the Edmund C. Olson Trust and $500 scholarship from CU Hawai`i Federal Credit Union, presented by Cheryl Marzo.
Beck also received awards for her titles from Ka`u Coffee Growers Cooperative, Sen. Russell Ruderman, Sen. Josh Green, Rep. Richard Creagan, and County Council member Maile David.
Beck's community sponsors include Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder, Terrie Louis, Jackie Flaherty and Greg Flaherty.
Her Miss Ka`u Coffee trophy was sponsored and presented by Ka`u Coffee Festival organizer Chris Manfredi and his company Ka`u Local Products. Ka`u Coffee farmers sponsored her many tropies with the Interview Trophy by Milton and Verna Dacalio, Career Outfit Trophy by Wayne and Danarie Dacalio, Talent Trophy by Melchor and Fely Fernandez, Evening Gown Trophy by Rose and Ren Tamayo, Swimsuit Trophy by Jim and Josie Oakes, Congeniality Trophy by Marlon and Aurora Biason, Photogenic Trophy by Don and Ipo Dacalio and Popularity Trophy by Lee and Nicole Segawa.
Beck won the Swimsuit competition and tied for Talent in the 2016 Miss Ka`u Coffee competition. She represented Ka`u in the recent Miss Teen Hawai`i competition. She enjoys modeling and acting and will represent the Ka`u Coffee industry at numerous events over the next year.
Miss Ka`u Coffee First Princess is Alysha Gufstafson-Savellawon who won a $950 scholarship from Ka`u Mahi and a trophy from William and Grace Tabios. Second Princess is Shaenese Tailon who won a $675 scholarship from Ka`u Valley Farm and a trophy from Francis and Trinidad Marques.

The Drying Room at Ka`u Coffee Mill hosted the Miss Ka`u Coffee Pageant Saturday. Photo by Julia Neal

CALAYSA KOI IS JUNIOR MISS KA`U COFFEE. The seventh grader at Ka`u Middle School in Pahala is daughter of Punalu`u Bake Shop manager Connie Koi and recently retired Hawai`i Police Department officer Cory Koi. Her trophy was sponsored by Miles and Shasta Mayne.

Junior Miss Ka'u Coffee Court for 2017.
Photo by Julia Neal

Koi received a $700 scholarship from Pacific Quest. She won Talent, performing the difficult song David Guetta's Titanium made famous by both the Australian recording artist Sia and also Madilyn Bailey. Her Talent Trophy was sponsored by John and Ruby Javar. Koi also won other titles including the Evening Gown competition with trophy sponsored by Ann Fontes. She also won Career Outfit with trophy sponsored by Berta and Jose Miranda and the Interview trophy sponsored by Alex and Francisca Calumpit.
Her community sponsors included Ali`i Hawaiian Hula Hands Coffee, Punalu`u Bake Shop, Southside Shaka's Restaurant, Cody Faber, Erika Polido, Kai Hauanio, Karlee Hauanio, Tiana Hanashiro and many members of the Koi and Marques families.
Junior Miss Princesses are Cristina Kawekhiwehi and Jaycee Umemoto who won scholarships from Ka`u Local Products, Punalu`u Bake Shop and Ka`u Valley Farm.
Additional trophies were sponsored by Sixto Asuncion, Manuel and Deborah Marques, and Ruby and Amy Javar.

JAZMYNN NAVARRO IS MISS KA`U COFFEE PEABERRY. She swept all but one Junior Miss title. She is the daughter of Johnathan and Jennifer Navarro, of Pahala and attends Pahala Elementary School. She won a $300 scholarship from Punalu`u Bake Shop and a crown sponsored by Bong and Gloria Aquino.

Miss Ka`u Coffee Peaberry court for 2017.
Photo by Julia Neal

She won the Miss Popularity contest, with the most community sponsors of the entire pageant. She took the Miss Photogenic trophy provided by Rick and Mimie Sambajon, Talent trophy sponsored by Joseph and Mariel Castaneda, Congeniality trophy sponsored by Lee and Nicole Segawa, and Character Outfit trophy sponsored by Pablo and Marina Mauricio.
First Miss Ka`u coffee Peaberry is Gwendolyn McElroy, daughter of Mariss Calcano and Adam Peters, of Ocean View. She is a student of Ka`u Learning Academy and won the Evening Gown trophy sponsored by Roberto and Maria Miranda. For her title she won a $250 scholarship from Ka`u Valley Farm and trophy sponsored by Kurt and Anne Hall.
Second Princess is Adryana Lorenzo who received a $125 scholarship from Sen. Russell Ruderman and a trophy from Delvin and Shawnette Navarro. Third Princess is Melo Keohuloa who received a $100 scholarship from Rep. Richard Creagan and a trophy from Leonardo and Jackie Castaneda. Fourth Princess is Ava Estabilio Lazar who received a $75 scholarship from Ka`u Mahi and Ka`u Valley Farm with a trophy from Jeffrey and Donna Gascon.

Miss Ka`u Coffee Flower Court.
Photo by Julia Neal

MISS KA`U COFFEE FLOWER IS EVALYNN ORNELAS, the four year old daughter of Caitlan and Mario Ornelas of Ocean View. Her community sponsors are Aunti Donna, Julie Enriques, Michelle Beck, Kuulei Ka`awa, Jamie Pasion, Getty Clark, Ms. Tori and Jana Kaniho. She received a $200 scholarship from Ka`u Local Products and a trophy from Lorie Obra.
She won Miss Photogenic and Character Outfit and tied for evening gown with Liliana Marques.
First Princess is Liliana Marques who received a $150 scholarship from Maile David and Sen. Russell Ruderman and a trophy from Mely Biason.
Second Princess is Mia Lazar who won a $100 scholarship from Rep. Richard Creagan and a trophy from Edwin and Andrea Jara.
Trophies were also provided by Franklin and Annabel Orcino, John and Kathy Cross, Jack and Brenda Moses, Marcus and Felma Domingo.

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HAUNANI'S ALOHA EXPRESSIONS entertain Wednesday, May 17 at 6:30 p.m. at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Enjoy an evening of music and hula of Haunani’s Aloha Expressions. With their handmade colorful costumes and lei, these energetic kūpuna have competed at, and won, various hula festivals. They bring to life the magic of old Hawai‘i. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing Nā Leo ManuHeavenly Voices presentations. Free.

Ka`u News Briefs. Monday April 24, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Tuesday, April 25, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs, Wednesday, April 26, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Thursday, April 27, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Friday, April 28, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Saturday, April 29, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Sunday, April 30, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Monday, May 1, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Tuesday, May 3, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Wednesday, May 3, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs, Thursday, May 4, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs May 5, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Saturday, May 6, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Sunday, May 7, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Monday, May 8, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Tuesday, May 9, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Wednesday, May 10, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Thursday, May 11, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Friday, May 12, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs, Saturday, May 13, 201