The Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs, Hawaiʻi Island

A color-shaded bathymetry map of Lō‘ihi, a submarine volcano 24 miles southeast of Pahala.

The summit is marked by pit craters formed in connection with an eruption and earthquake

swarm in July–August 1996. Right: Earthquakes in the vicinity of Lō‘ihi (same area as

bathymetry map) located by USGS during a 30-day period ending June 22. Locations shown

with dots; size indicates magnitude. The blue dot east of Lō‘ihi was a magnitude-2.3

earthquake that on June 22. See story below. Images from USGS

COMMERCIAL LAVA TOUR BOAT RIDES FROM PUNALU`U BOAT RAMP would require written permission from owners of the ramp, and possibly government permits for using the shoreline area, according to state and county zoning and boating regulations. Punalu`u Boat Ramp is is shown on the state Department of Land & Natural Resources harbor and boat ramp map as the only private boat ramp on the island. It is owned by the hui associated with Roberts of Hawai`i, which also owns land zoned Open adjacent to the boat ramp, nearby land zoned for resort and also the Punalu`u Golf Course.

With no more permits allowed at the goverment controlled boat ramp at
Po`oiki, some tour boat operators are eyeing the privately owned
ramp at Punalu`u for launching lava boat tours.
Photo from Kohala Tours

At state and county boat ramps, government agencies manage the number of permits for commercial boaters using them. However, the state boating division has no control over boats using private ramps.

The question of tour boats launching from Punalu`u to run along the shore of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park to the lava flowing into the ocean, has come up among fishermen and users of Punalu`u Beach. They said they have seen preparations at the Punalu`u Boat Ramp and adjacent land and have met people who talk about starting lava boat tours there.

Punalu`u Boat Ramp is the only private ramp listed
by the state on its map of harbors and ramps on the
Big Island. Map from DLNR. Red dots are county,
blue are state and yellow is private.
Map from DLNR

Since the land adjacent to the boat ramp is zoned Open, not commercial, and is within the Special Management Area along the coast, it requires additional permitting when operating businesses. Permits for repairing and enlarging the ramp would also be required.

Community concerns include a commercial boat using Punalu`u Bay where families swim, dive, fish and surf, and the amount of tour boating traffic that could be generated in the small Punalu`u Bay, with the only family friendly swimming area and beach park within Ka`u.

The number of tour boat permits is capped at Po`oiki ramp in Puna for taking people 25 minutes on the water to the lava entry to the ocean. The time it would take to conduct a lava tour by boat from Punalu`u could be an hour and a half one way on an unusually calm day, according to local boaters who make the run while fishing.

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RENEWED SEISMIC ACTIVITY at Lō‘ihi seamount, the underwater volcano 24 miles southeast of Pahala and northeast of Kalae, is registering on Hawaiian Volcano Observatory equipment. The island chain's youngest and still submarine volcano has registered more than 50 quakes in June.

Lō‘ihi is a new feature on Hawaiian Volcano Observatory's new website. The website change was part of an overall update to how the U.S. Geological Survey’s Volcano Hazards Program (https://volcanoes.usgs.gov) provides information to both the scientific community and the general public. The new HVO website (https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvo/) provides a portal to a wide range of information about the two ongoing Kīlauea eruptions and current unrest on Mauna Loa and Lō‘ihi, reports this week's Volcano Watch, written by HVO scientists:

Somewhat coincident with the debut of HVO’s updated website, eagle-eyed web surfers have noticed recent increases in earthquake activity at Lō‘ihi. Although there are no seismic stations near Lō‘ihi, HVO has been tracking earthquake activity there from land-based seismic stations for over 50 years.

Since the end of February, HVO seismic analysts have noted a slight uptick in the numbers of earthquakes near Lō‘ihi. From January 2015 through February 2017, there was, on average, one located Lō‘ihi earthquake per month. Since then, the rate of earthquakes has gradually increased. As of June 22 there were 51 located earthquakes in the Lō‘ihi region in this month alone.

Without permanent seismic stations at Lō‘ihi—because the highest point of the volcano is still a kilometer (0.6 mi) under water—it is not possible to locate earthquakes there as accurately as at Kīlauea or Mauna Loa. However, HVO can state that the June 2017 earthquakes appear to be clustered roughly 10–12 km (6–7 mi) below sea level and extend from beneath the summit region of Lō‘ihi to the south.

Interestingly, the roughly 170 earthquakes located in the area of Lō‘ihi between 2010 and 2016 occurred away from the summit region. They were primarily beneath the northern flanks of Lō‘ihi, and extended to significantly greater depths below the volcano. The significance of this difference is unclear.

As early as 1952, HVO scientists interpreted occasional earthquake swarms in the Lō‘ihi region as reflecting active volcanism there. In fact, the earthquakes were key to recognizing that the seamount is actually an active volcano.

Earthquake activity alone does not conclusively indicate that Lō‘ihi is erupting. But the locations of recent earthquakes directly beneath the volcano’s summit region plausibly suggest magmatic or volcanic origin, such as adjustments within the magma reservoir or volcanic edifice. We would, however, expect to see many more earthquakes associated with an eruption.

The most recent confirmed eruption of Lō‘ihi occurred in 1996. That year, an energetic earthquake swarm began in July and quickly intensified, motivating a scientific expedition to Lō‘ihi to seize an unprecedented opportunity to possibly observe a submarine eruption. Thousands of earthquakes, including over a dozen with magnitudes greater than 4.5, were recorded from beneath the summit and south flank of the volcano between July and September 1996.

Pillow lava from an eruption at Lo`ihi. Photo from University of Hawai`i

Subsequent viewing and mapping of the Lō‘ihi summit region showed that, consistent with magma movement from beneath the summit area, a significant portion of it had collapsed. Fresh pillow lavas and glassy fragments collected during submersible dives also confirmed the occurrence of an eruption.

Because Lō‘ihi is still so deep beneath the ocean’s surface, the USGS regards Lō‘ihi as a low- to very low-threat volcano. There are no immediate plans for additional monitoring instruments and our views of Lō‘ihi for the foreseeable future will be strictly seismological.

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AN EXTREME HIGH TIDE MESSAGE has been issued for the weekend by Hawai`i County Civil Defense Agency. The National Weather Service reports unusually high tides, also known as King Tides, may cause dangerous flooding conditions along all shores of Hawai`i Island through Sunday before gradually subsiding next week.

"Due to the King Tides, be aware that coastal areas, beaches, low-lying roads, boat ramps, and harbors may be dangerously impacted during the afternoon and evening hours. A below advisory level south swell will enhance impacts to exposed shores. These high tides and swell will cause higher beach run up, flooding and erosion."

King Tides are expected to send seawater running up onto the shores
through this weekend. Image from University of Hawai`i

Because of these dangerous conditions, the following precautions should be taken, warns Civil Defense: "Ocean front residents, beach-goers, and boat owners are advised to be on the alert for high surf, strong currents, and coastal flooding. As a precaution, consider postponing ocean activities until these hazards are over. As always, precautionary measures should be taken before night fall.

Special caution to the coastal areas in and around Kapoho during the high tide periods.

There are no closures of roads or beaches. "However, be aware closures may occur without notice.

Radio stations and this public notification will be updated and you will be informed of any conditions that may affect your safety," reports Civil Defense.

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MONEY FOR HEAT ABATEMENT IN PUBLIC SCHOOL CLASSROOMS will be borrowed, interest free, now that Gov. David Ige has signed state House Bill 957 (Act 57) – The Department of Education will borrow money from the Hawai‘i Green Infrastructure Loan Program, the Gov. said when signing the legislation on Thursday.
The effort is to expedite cooling of classrooms across the state while decreasing energy usage and electricity costs.
“I ordered the cooling of 1,000 public school classrooms about a year and a half ago. The state and the DOE have worked very hard to achieve this goal. Although the process hasn’t always been easy and it has taken more time than we would have liked, I am happy to say that we expect to have 1,000 classrooms cooled off by the end of August,” said Ige.

Ka`u High & Elementary has high ceilings and large windows but may
qualify in the future for air conditioning through new funding
from the state. Photo by Julia Neal

The governor's statement says that the DOE is expecting significant decreases in energy use and electricity costs. The use of LED indoor lighting in public school classrooms is expected to result in a $4 million drop in energy costs annually. Such reductions in energy consumption and the lowering of the kilowatt load may enable the installation of AC units in classrooms without expensive and time consuming electrical upgrades.
The governor’s Cool the Schools initiative and the DOE’s Heat Abatement program have resulted in: The installation of 456 classroom air conditioning units and201 photovoltaic AC units; distribution of 402 portable AC units to the hottest classrooms across the state and the ordering of 1,062 AC units
In addition, 461 portable classrooms have been covered with heat reflective material; trees have been planted to shade buildings and minimize heat; awnings have been installed on at least four buildings; ceiling fans have been installed in 139 classrooms; and large diameter fans are being installed in cafeteria dining rooms.
“A big mahalo to our state legislators for their support of our efforts to cool the schools. Thank you also to the DOE for its hard work and for helping us to achieve our goal of creating a learning environment in which our students and teachers can thrive,” Ige said.

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Stained Glass II: Panel Lamp, Sat – Sun, June 24 – July 8, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. Claudia McCall teaches students how to create their own stained glass table lamp. $150/$135 VAC members; $15 supply fee. 967-8222

Nature & Culture: An Unseverable Relationship (He Pilina Wehena ‘Ole), Sat, June 24, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Palm Trail hikers visit a place where catastrophic change & subsequent restoration can be observed. Free. nps.gov/havo

www.kaucalendar.com

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017

A planned lava tour boat operation has been cancelled at Punalu`u after many community members took the issue
to property and boat ramp owners, government officials and community groups. Photo from Iwalani Watai

A PLANNED LAVA TOUR BOAT OPERATION out of Punalu`u is cancelled, as of yesterday when Punalu`u boat ramp owners, SM Investment Partners - associated with Roberts Hawai`i, withdrew their agreement with Hang Loose Boat Tours, LLC.
From Kona, Hang Loose offers a Morning Dolphin Adventure & Reef Snorkel, Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tour, Manta Night Snorkel, Whale Watch and has had a photo of lava pouring into the ocean, but no lava tour offered on its website. Permits for lava tours from Poho`iki in Puna are all taken, leaving Punalu`u as the closest boat ramp with any opportunity for tour boat companies, if they were allowed there. The boat ramp is the only private boat ramp on the island, according to the state Department of Land & Natural Resources' map of harbors and ramps.

Simon Velaj, owner of Hang Loose, said this morning that he rented the old restaurant site at Punalu`u from Roberts and planned to park his 34-foot, 24-passenger, aluminum catamaran there and launch it not more than once a day - on evenings when sea conditions were calm enough to take passengers.

Guy Enriques with keiki as endangered baby hawksbill turtles make
their way from their sandy nests to the ocean at Punalu`u, across
from the boat ramp where lava boat tours had been planned.
Photo by Julia Neal

After running his boat from waters off Punalu`u to the lava entry, he said, the estimated time to reach the viewing area would have been about 40 to 50 minutes on a calm evening. He estimated the tour would have been about three hours with about a half hour of viewing offshore the lava.
The cancellation was emailed to Hang Loose as well as Guy Enriques, founder of the community group O Ka`u Kakou, and a Punalu`u waterman and resident as well as a former County Council member. It was also emailed to current County Council member Maile David.
The letter came from Roy Pfund, of SM Investment Partners. SM owns the ramp, old restaurant site and other resort, open, residential, commercial and golf course property at Punalu`u.
The letter from SM to Hang Loose states: "We have received information from members of the community, including a city council member that rocks at the shoreline have been moved and trees have also been removed. You stated that you were in the process of leveling some pillars at the boat ramp. These activities not only require Landlord approval, but require permits from the state and/or county government. We did not authorize you to conduct any activities as described above nor can we condone this type of unlawful behavior, thus we have no option but to cancel your License Agreement due to your non-compliance."

Honu, green sea turtle looks out to Punalu`u Bay toward the boat ramp
where lava tour boat trips were planned. Photo by Julia Neal

Velaj maintained that he was cleaning up the area, patched the road to the boat ramp, cleared away brush and cut some sharp metal sticking up out of concrete at the boat ramp that, he claimed, was dangerous to anyone. He said the metal was left over from commercial shipping days at Punalu`u. He said to make the repairs on the old road and the area he used a small Caterpillar backhoe.
A community meeting had been called by Enriques and O Ka`u Kakou, to be held at the old Aspen Center at Punalu`u this Monday, but was cancelled after the agreement to use the boat ramp was withdrawn from Hang Loose Tours.
Velaj said he has been a "good citizen" tour boat operator in Kona and hopes the Ka`u community will appreciate the repair of the road to the boat ramp and the cleanup of the area. He said he is sorry that his plans did not work out with the community.
Ka`u's County Council member, Maile David, said this morning that she would like to acknowledge the quick response from the owners and the work of the community to document the activities at the Punalu`u shoreline and in contacting her, other public officials and the property owners.
She also said that the situation was one in which the community should have been involved ahead of time, particularly since Punalu`u is "such an environmentally and culturally special place." She pointed to the nesting of the endangered Hawaiian hawksbill turtles, a short distance from the boat ramp, as well as historic, cultural and archaeological sites and its unique status as the ocean place for Ka`u families.

A Hang Loose boat wold have carried 24 passengers to the lava flow
and back to Punalu`u. Photo from Hang Loose

The council member said that "Someone needs to outline what needs to be done for any future commercial operations in Punalu`u." She said that stakeholders, landowners and people wanting to do business "need to do due diligence. This is a wake up call."
She said, "I am very happy and thankful for the community that called me immediately. I was able to hear the boat operator's side and talk to the owners." She noted the value of many different people from different alliances working together on the issue which was resolved quickly.
She also noted that anyone wanting to do business around here needs to "Be a good neighbor. Introduce yourself to the community. Recognize this is a pristine area that is culturally and environmentally important."
Numerous other community members became involved:
Ron Ebert, of O Ka`u Kakou, posted on facebook: "The leadership of OKK should be thanked for all they did behind the scenes to bring this situation to an end. Also our county council person Maile David and her office worked hard behind the scenes and should be thanked also."
Zina Galapir Hough posted: "Punalu'u being our childhood and adulthood playground, we all learned from our grandparents, parent, and uncles the in and outs of the inner/outer reefs and currents. We all are too familiar of the sudden changes of the winds, weather, and currents that that can be pretty unforgiven to the unknowleged and unwise. Breaks my heart to see such disrespect to our Punalu'u."

Maile David said businesses
and community should study
what is allowed at Punalu`u.
Photo by Ann Bosted

Rachel Ballesteros Velez posted: "We applaud what OKK does for Ka'u. But regardless if OKK resolved the issue...the issue isn't resolved with the hearts of the people of Ka'u....this isn't just going to go away because the 'big wigs' resolved the political part."
Charmaine Bugado posted that the Ka`u community should "organize because future development is coming guaranteed and a early plan will help lahui who join after to kokua effectively. Aloha aina hana to make pono."

Demetrius Oliveira on his Keauokalani facebook page covered the story extensively and the effort to preserve the Ka`u Coast and nautral resources here. He reported on Waimakalani Watai Iona getting in touch with the Hang Loose boat company operator. Iona wrote: "I just got off the phone with the guy, his name is Simon. I told him I had questions and wanted to know his facts. I also told him that I would make our conversation public and he said ok. So this is what he told me: Roberts Hawai`i claims to own the land right down to the water. He has a lease with them for the boat ramp. He received a special permit from DLNR to use the boat ramp which wanted to run a boat from for lava tours.

"I asked him if he is aware that there are historic sites right there. He said he wasn't aware. I told him that I am notifying him at this moment.
"He said that he will be at a special meeting on Monday at 6 p.m. behind the condos. (meeting at old Aspen Center since cancelled). He will be there along with County Council and wants the community to attend (meeting cancelled after landowner cancelled license). I asked him, 'If the community is against this, what will be your response?' He said he will walk away. I repeated that fact to him and told him that I was going to make this public and he is aware. He said he will not be back to the ramp until then."

Valez said on Saturday that although the meeting is cancelled, he still hopes to meet with the community to tell his story and make amends.

Palm Trail Hike on Sunday at Kahuku.
Photo by Sami Steinkemp/NPS

Palm Trail, Sun, June 25, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. This moderately difficult 2.6-mile loop traverses scenic pastures along an ancient cinder cone, with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer.

HOVE Road Maintenance board of directors meeting, Tue, June 27, 10 a.m., St. Jude’s Church. 929-9910

Ka‘ū Food Pantry, Tue, June 27, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., St. Jude’s Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

Pāpale (Hat) Workshop, Wed, June 28, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Participants weave a hat from coconut leaves Free; park entrance fees apply.

Coffee Talk, Fri, June 30, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. An informal conversation on a wide variety of topics. Ka‘ū coffee, tea and pastries available for purchase. Free.

Ocean View Community Development Corp. meeting, Fri, June 30, 5 p.m., Hawaiian Ranchos office.

www.kaucalendar.com

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017

Punalu`u from the wharf where local residents vowed to prevent desecration of the rock walls and boat ramp.
Photo by Lihauulaokalani Kaawa Davis

CAMPING AT PUNALU`U WHARF, protectors of the Punalu`u wharf and boat launch ramp stayed the weekend and met with visitors, media, officials and locals to talk about protecting the place from excavation for planned tour boat operations. The protectors camped following community outreach to property owners, boat company and government officials last week, leading to cancellation on Friday of the license to allow a tour boat to launch from Punalu`u to view lava entering the ocean in Puna.
Annette L. Kailiawa wrote to The Ka`u Calendar, "Always the case..planned lava tour operation but no community input.....that's why the community get hard feelings...did land owners and lessee present a meeting of these plans that would affect the area???? No."
Kailiawa was writing about SM Investment Partners, associated with Roberts Hawai`i, renting space to Hang Loose Boat Tours. The Kona company wished to store its boat and operate tours from SM's private boat ramp at Punalu`u without community input.
Ramona Navarrette wrote, "Wow...very sad. But happy for the quick response. Punalu'u is a natural marine sanctuary and a cultural heritage site. It needs to be preserved and protected." Jamie C. Lee wrote, "Defend Ka`u." Diane Easler Corso wrote, "Defend the protectors."

Local residents confront the boat owner about

disturbing the wharf at Punalu`u.

From facebook video

The license was signed by SM in April and the community became aware last week. Operator of the Hang Loose Boat Tours, Simon Velaj, arrived with machinery and started to repair the road to the boat ramp and possibly enlarge the boat ramp for his operations.

As the public saw that stones of the wharf were being moved, locals confronted Velaj about the history of the wharf, told him about the mana in pohaku- the stones, said that ancestral bones could be buried in the area, and that the wharf itself, marked by the engraving "Built 1916 by K. Ishii" could not be disturbed without study and permitting.
Some of those confronting him shouted and swore at him, called him a "f'in haole," chased after his van and made physical threats, as shown in videos that were posted on facebook. Online, some posters called for opponents to go to the Hang Loose facebook page to complain. They did and the Hang Loose page was offline Sunday evening.

Others called for calm and due process.
Velaj wrote a letter Sunday, saying, "I wish we met in better circumstances with love and aloha; unfortunately we are humans and we make mistakes and I am very sorry if I disrespected anyone as it was not in my intentions. All I wanted to do is help maintain the place clean so nobody can get hurt and the community and local fishermen can use the property along with me.
"By doing so, I thought that I am doing the right thing to be accepted by the community and that people would see that I am there not only to make my living but to help everyone around me to make this place better for each one of us.
"From the beginning, nobody wanted to talk to me or guide me in the right way, this is when made a mistake and backed up because fighting is not in my intentions. I am not a person from a big corporation. I am a self-employed one man operation that works hard to make a living to support my family. Again, I apologize for my actions."

Punalu`u wharf protectors camped for the weekend.
From facebook video

In sharing Velaj's letter, Lihauulaokalani Kaawa Davis posted on her facebook, after talking to him: "He sounded very apologetic on the phone but most of all, he is asking for a chance to make Hoʻoponopono with our Kaʻū Community. Please remain with Kapu Aloha as I know this issue has hit each and everyone of us as individuals pretty hard within the naʻau. A Hoʻoponopono ceremony is in the early stages of planning but as members of our Kaʻū community, what is your suggested solution as a way to remedy this issue?" Davis asked the community.
Starlette Freitas wrote, "Make him go down there and find a way to put it back by hand even if he gotta need help from others that are willing to help him make Pono."

Teresa Lee Salgado Nakama wrote: "This is not a Ho'oponopono situation...an illegal act of destroying with an machinery equipment is not ----"Oh I didn't know I wasn't suppose to do that"... Like two days of it....being in business means, there are rules and regulations, both with State and County, and boating deals with DLNR rules and regulations...this is a crime that was committed. One does their homework and talk to others that are in tour industries and they do talk about rules and regulations and the permitting process they had to go through...you mean to say this guy, just open up a business, with out researching it...Ka'u Lahui was not born yesterday!!!!!"
Tiana Ka`auamo wrote, "Feel like the Kupuna that rest there need an apology as well."

Rocks removed in wall at Punalu`u
From facebook video

Vivialn-malia Moana Brown wrote: "We ain't Akua and everyone deserves to right their wrong. He's already been forgiven! A suggestion to Simon Velaj - make right clean up your opala and others who was involve in this - he wasn't the only one involved in this mess...IESU PÜ ME 'OE 2 All."
Jolisa Masters wrote: "Sounds sketchy to me. Almost seems like it was an attempt on SM to try developing after being shut down by the community so many times before. Let it fall on Hang Loose.
"Doesn't mean I feel that Hang Loose shouldn't be held responsible just seems that there's more to the story. SM had to have known what was going to happen. Why else would you lease land to a business owner. Commercial leasing is so much more than just signing a contract, saying you can use the land and do whatever you want. There's addendums and all kinds of different aspects.
"SM and Hang Loose should make all documents and agreements public if truly it was just an attempt to clean up the area for the community. They should be present at all Ka`u Development Plan meetings along with the community if they truly care about what the community and families of Ka'u want and don't want.
"Why is SM or Roberts and Hang Loose not involved in community events or fundraisers for things in our community that benefit the families of Ka'u? I feel like SM, Roberts and Hang Loose have to participate in this meeting, disclose all information and intentions and never try to pull a fast one on Ka'u again!"

For Velaj, SM Partners cancelled the license on Friday for using their parking at the old restaurant site and their boat ramp. He said, however, he still wants to come to a public meeting to apologize to the community.

See more in last Friday's and Saturday's Ka`u News Briefs.

THE KA`U COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN STEERING COMMITTEE will host a public meeting this Wednesday, June 28 at Na`alehu Community Center at 6 p.m.. Members of the public are invited to speak to any items on the agenda.

The agenda addresses the General Plan Comprehensive Review. Members of the county's Long Range Planning Division will provide an overview of scenario planning as it relates to the General Plan Comprehensive Review. This will include using scenario planning to explore the Ka'u CDP Planning Area. The Steering Committee will have an opportunity for questions, discussion, and

recommendations to the Planning Director.

A covered outdoor area hosted long term residents to
celebrate improvements at Ka`u Hospital.
Photo from Ka`u Hospital Chairitable Foundation

Members of the public who want to speak need to fill out and submit a yellow request form provided at the meeting and give it to the Planning Assistant or Steering Committee Chairperson prior to the Public Comment session. Comment shall be limited to three minutes in length per agenda item, subject to the discretion of the Chair of the Ka'u CDP Steering Committee.

KA`U HOSPITAL RESIDENTS recently shared their excitement about projects being scheduled that will finish the outdoor area designed for them with expanded walkways, raised planting beds, windbreaks, more plants and rain cover. The projects are sponsored by the Ka`u Hospital Charitable Foundation. See www.kauhospital.org.

HOVE Road Maintenance board of directors meeting, Tue, June 27, 10 a.m., St. Jude’s Church. 929-9910

Ka‘ū Food Pantry, Tue, June 27, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., St. Jude’s Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

Pāpale (Hat) Workshop, Wed, June 28, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Participants weave a hat from coconut leaves Free; park entrance fees apply.

Coffee Talk, Fri, June 30, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. An informal conversation on a wide variety of topics. Ka‘ū coffee, tea and pastries available for purchase. Free.

Ocean View Community Development Corp. meeting, Fri, June 30, 5 p.m., Hawaiian Ranchos office.

www.kaucalendar.com

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017

A new delta collapse at the lava entry to the ocean in Puna is creating dramatic scenery for tour boat operators.
See story on Punalu`u lava tour boat issue below. Photo from Big Island Video News and seelava.com

THE U.S. SUPREME COURT announced today it will take up the Travel Ban case that has pitted the State of Hawai`i against President Donald Trump who wanted to ban people from six Muslim majority countries from entering the United States for an extended time. The Hawai`i Attorney General succeeded in federal court, which blocked the ban, but the Trump Administration appealed to the higher court. The Supreme Court takes up the issue after its summer holiday.

Hawai`i AG explained the state's case against the Trump Travel Ban
on MSNBC today. Watch.

The Trump attorneys asked the Supreme Court to allow the ban to be enforced until it rules on the case. However, the office of Hawai`i Attorney General Doug Ching explained: "This morning the United States Supreme Court denied in part and granted in part the Trump Administration’s request to stay the injunctions issued against the travel and refugee bans by the Fourth and Ninth Circuit Courts of Appeal.

"The travel ban and refugee ban remain blocked and will not go into effect for people with a 'bona fide' connection to the United States. If it had gone fully into effect, the travel ban would have prevented nationals of six Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States for 90 days, and the refugee ban would have prevented all refugees from any country from entering the United States for 120 days.

"In the same order," reported, Hawai`i's AG staff, "the Court also granted discretionary review (called certiorari) to hear arguments regarding the underlying merits of the lower court decisions. These arguments will be focused on the substantive issues considered by both the Fourth and Ninth Circuits, including whether the travel and refugee bans exceeded the Trump Administration’s authority under the Immigration and Nationality Act and whether the Executive Order violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment."

Gosling and parent seen in February have moved on from Pu`u Pua`i.
NPS Photo

Hawai`i's AG himself said, “The important thing is that by a vote of 6-3, today’s order continues to block implementation of the travel and refugee bans for people with a connection to the United States. This means people such as students accepted to the University of Hawai`i and Dr. Elshikh’s family may still enter the country. Immigration into the United States should not be restricted due to religion or national origin.”

Chin went on MSNBC and said he will be putting the argument that the Travel Ban is unconstitutional before the Supreme Court. Watch.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

HAWA`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK OVERLOOK at Pu'u Pua'i has reopened after being closed since February to protect breeding nēnē (endangered Hawaiian geese) in the area. During the closure, the nēnē parents successfully raised their single gosling and the family has now moved on to their summer grounds.
It's been a decade since the last gosling was reared in the vicinity, and that nēnē is the grandfather of this year's gosling, according to Kathleen Misajon, wildlife biologist at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.

Pu`u Pua`i gosling growing up. NPS photo

"This year's gosling was the fifth generation of the same nēnē family I've monitored over the years. After a 10-year hiatus, it is really exciting to see this female return to a favored family spot," Misajon said.
In 1952, only 30 nēnē remained statewide. In the 1970s, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park began efforts to save the species from extinction. Today, more than 250 wild birds thrive in the park from sea level to around 8,000 feet. There are more than 2,500 nēnē statewide.
During the closure, the park's facilities maintenance team made improvements to the popular deck, which overlooks Kīlauea Iki crater and trail. Missing boards were replaced, and the deck was painted prior to the reopening.
Pu'u Pua'i is a massive reddish-brown cindercone that formed during an eruption at Kīlauea Iki crater in 1959. It is visible from many areas along Crater Rim and Kīlauea Iki trails.

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IN DEPTH INTERVIEWS WITH LOCAL FISHERMEN and beachgoers are posted at www.bigislandvideonews.com concerning protection of the wharf and boat ramp at Punalu`u. The coverage filmed Sunday by Dave Corrigan shows concern of residents who witnessed the wharf and

Aftermath of heavy machinery at Punalu`u Wharf.
Photo from Big Island Video News

boat ramp area being excavated and jack hammered, leading to their calls for help to government officials, community leaders and the surrounding landowners for help.
Those who witnessed the construction work said they were told that a tour boat operator was attempting to build a new and larger ramp for his vessel, which would take passengers from Punalu`u to the lava flowing into the ocean in Puna. A recent delta collapse has created dramatic viewing.
Big Island Video News coverage at Punalu`u includes video taken by the local residents showing a confrontation with the boat owner who worked on the wharf with an excavator. A community meeting at Na`alehu Clubhouse was set for 5:30 p.m., today, Monday.

Heavy equipment image captured by campers at Punalu`u.
Photo by Whitney Cardoza

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CRIMES COMMITTED BY IMMIGRANTS are the focus of a new federal office, according to Sen. Mazie K. Hirono and six other Senators. On Monday, they demanded answers from the Trump Administration on a new office created to focus on publicizing information about the crimes of immigrants. In a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security John F. Kelly, the Senators asked for answers about the purpose for creating the Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement (VOICE) Office due to concerns the office’s activities could lead to misinformation and potentially illegal discrimination.

“Given President Trump’s aggressive rhetoric on immigrants and the reported increase in hate crimes in the past year, we are troubled that VOICE could contribute to discrimination and violence against immigrants and those perceived to be immigrants,” wrote the Senators. “In particular, after recent reports that a searchable database launched in conjunction with VOICE included information on children and asylum seekers, we are concerned that personally identifiable information released by VOICE will lead to the direct targeting of individuals, including children.”

In addition, the Senators expressed their concern that VOICE, in its stated goals, was duplicative of existing resources without creating any real benefits.

The letter was also signed by Senators Christopher Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Cory A. Booker (D-N.J.), Patrick J. Leahy (D-Vt.), and Richard J. Durbin (D-Ill.).

Sen. Mazie Hiorono, interviewed on MSNBC on Monday about her views
on the Travel Ban.

National immigration advocates joined the Senators in their concerns.

“VOICE is a propaganda machine to defame America's immigrants. Report after report has shown that immigrants commit far less and are far less likely to commit crime than native born Americans. We all want to be safe, and those who mean us harm should be dealt with. But this approach is an insult to this nation of immigrants and does not make us safer. We need to heal the wounds of hatred, not fan them,” said Clarissa Martinez de Castro, the National Council of La Raza’s Deputy Vice President, Office of Research, Advocacy and Legislation.

“The creation of the VOICE office is yet another dangerous and ill-conceived action of this administration that promotes the profiling of immigrants and promotes racism and xenophobia while doing nothing for public safety,” said John C. Yang, president and executive director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC. “VOICE sounds a clarion call to those who will target their vitriol and violence toward immigrants, legitimizing their hateful actions through fear-mongering government policies.”

“We hope the Department of Homeland Security takes the safety, privacy and confidentiality concerns of all victims and survivors of gender-based violence, including detained immigrant victims, very seriously and adheres to the VAWA confidentiality protections mandated by Congress,” said Ruth Glenn, Executive Director of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Click here for a copy of the letter.

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Ka‘ū Food Pantry, Tue, June 27, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., St. Jude’s Episcopal Church in Ocean View.

Pāpale (Hat) Workshop, Wed, June 28, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Participants weave a hat from coconut leaves Free; park entrance fees apply.

Coffee Talk, Fri, June 30, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. An informal conversation on a wide variety of topics. Ka‘ū coffee, tea and pastries available for purchase. Free.

Ocean View Community Development Corp. meeting, Fri, June 30, 5 p.m., Hawaiian Ranchos office.

www.kaucalendar.com

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017

Gary Tomondon caught this image of the tour boat owner trying to create a bigger ramp for his
Hang Loose lava boat operations at Punalu`u.

VIOLATIONS BY THE OWNERS OF THE PUNALU`U BOAT RAMP AND TOUR BOAT who planned lava viewing excursions along the coast between Punalu`u and Puna could lead to fines. County Managing Director Will Okabe told about 100 citizens who attended a meeting at Na`alehu Community Center on Monday night that the County of Hawai`i was unaware of the tour boat plans. No permits were issued for construction at the historic Punalu`u boat ramp where Simon Velaj, of Hang Loose Boat Tours, surprised locals by moving pohaku- stones and concrete from the area in order to create a boat boat ramp to accommodate his 24-foot, 20 passenger, aluminum catamaran.

The local residents told him to leave, documented the incident and called the property owner and public officials.

Okabe said state, federal and county agencies are investigating. "I think the landowner and also the boat operator have to take responsibility," said the County Managing Director.

Hawai`i News Now is covering the Punalu`u Boat
Ramp story.

Okabe explained that lava tours are a hot business these days. The nearest boat ramp to the lava flowing into the ocean is at Poho`iki. Velaj is on the waiting list and the launch ramp is owned by the state, which limits the number of tour operators at Poho`iki to four.
Velaj attended the Ka`u meeting Monday and apologized for using heavy equipment that disturbed the Punalu`u boat ramp site. During the meeting, numerous protectors of Punalu`u expressed outrage towards him and property owner SM Investment Partners, connected to Roberts Hawai`i, when Velaj maintained he was attempting to clean, make safe and improve the boat ramp area.
The issue is being covered by Honolulu network television, Big Island Video News, daily newspapers and extensively on video and social media directed by Demetrius Oliveira, of Pahala.
During the Na`alehu meeting, former County Council member and community group O Ka`u Kakou founder Guy Enriques said that he had heard about the plans to operate the boat tour at Punalu`u. Enriques said he voiced objections to Roberts, saying, "There ain't no way in hell you're going to do that." Enriques also contacted Roberts last week and the company sent him the letter that cancelled the agreement with Valaj.
The license between Roberts Hawai`i and Velaj was for $3,700 a month. The Hang Lose Tour Boat owner said he would have been allowed to launch at the ramp and to park his truck and boat at the old restaurant area at Punalu`u. Roberts, however, cancelled the license last Friday after calls from Enriques, County Council member Maile David, news media and citizens.

The Punalu`u boat ramp is the only privately owned boat ramp on the Big Island map produced by the state Department of Land & Natural Resourced. Boat ramps operated by the county and state can be regulated in the public interest, while private boat ramp owners can use their own discretion in giving permits for use by commercial operations.

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Class of '66 are front row Henry Grace, Allen Yoshida,

Robert Ahia, Neal Kanda. In back row are Elaine Fukunaga

Yamada, Doris Arakaki Grace, Roxanne Galiza Gacayan,

Priscilla Kai Shimamoto, Wanda Okinaka Lau, Eva Taylor.

THE CLASS OF 1966 organized this year's Ka`u-Pahala School reunion in June for graduates of all ages. It was well attended last week in Las Vegas. "The revitalized Pahala-Ka'u High School Reunion has gained in popularity beyond all expectations," said Joe Tateyama, one of the promoters and documentarians of reunions and history of the school and its graduates. The reunion was held June 23 and 24 at the Las Vegas California Hotel & Casino.
After taking over sponsorship of the annual event from the Class of 1959 last year, the Class of '66 increased participation to a packed 200 banquet attendees plus others who joined in for the `Ohana Night activities. "Everyone had a wonderful time visiting old friends, exchanging stories, reminiscing about the old days and meeting new attendees who came for the first time. Congratulations to the Class of '66 Reunion Committee for a job well done," Tateyama said.
With the reunion spearheaded by a nucleus of Neal Kanda, Wanda Okinaka Lau, Priscilla Kai Shimamoto, Roxanne Galiza Gacayan, Gary Ota, Allen Yoshida and Robert Ahia with some special `Ohana Night assistance from Margaret Ebanez Burns and her `ohana, "the organizers can be extremely proud of their accomplishments from a very grateful alumni," Tateyama said.

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Pāpale (Hat) Workshop, Wed, June 28, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Participants weave a hat from coconut leaves Free; park entrance fees apply.

Coffee Talk, Fri, June 30, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. An informal conversation on a wide variety of topics. Ka‘ū coffee, tea and pastries available for purchase. Free.

Ocean View Community Development Corp. meeting, Fri, June 30, 5 p.m., Hawaiian Ranchos office.

www.kaucalendar.com

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017

Calmer days at Punalu`u with local fishermen launching small boats at dawn from a small ramp. In late
June, a lava tour boat operation for 24 passengers met opposition and the owner was cited for damaging
historic Punalu`u Wharf through his attempt to make a bigger boat ramp. Photo by Julia Neal

ALLEGED VIOLATIONS AT PUNALU`U WHARF are in the notice to the lava tour boat operator who is accused of damaging historic structures there. On Wednesday, June 28, the state Department of Land & Natural Resources issued a Notice of Alleged Violations to the owner of Hang Loose Boat Tours, Simon Velaj. DLNR chair Suzanne Case issued a press release that alleges Velaj committed “Unauthorized Alteration of Historic Properties and Unauthorized Land Use Within the Conservation District.”

Suzanne Case, chair of the state Board of
Land & Natural Resources, issued a
statement on Punalu`u Wharf on
Wednesday. DLNR Photo

According to the statement, a site inspection by the state “revealed remnants of the historic Punalu`u Wharf have been impacted allegedly with heavy equipment, and significant ground disturbance has occurred within the State Land Use Conservation District.” The wharf displays an engraving showing its historic status – built by K. Ishii in 1919.
The notice to the Hang Loose owner further states that the changes to the wharf were “not reviewed nor authorized by the Department of Land and Natural Resources. The matter will be scheduled for a decision by the Board of Land and Natural Resources at a time and date to be
announced.”
Also under investigation by the county and the state are allegations that the company left two piles of dirt on the shore after attempting to excavate land and stones to create a new launching place for the Hang Loose boat. The DLNR is “is also attempting to work with the land owner on mitigation measures with respect to potential impacts in the ocean,” the DLNR stated.
The DLNR referred to State of Hawai‘i historic preservation laws, which provide that “it is a civil and administrative violation for any person to take, appropriate, excavate, injure, destroy, or alter any historic property or burial site during the course of land development or land alteration activities, without obtaining the required approvals; and State of Hawai‘i Administrative Rules for land use(s) within the State Land Use Conservation District state that no land use (s) shall be conducted in a Conservation District unless a permit or approval is first obtained from the DLNR or the Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR).
“It is alleged that Mr. Velaj failed to obtain any such approvals from the State,” the DLNR points out.

Parts of the historic Punalu`u Wharf were
built in 1916 by K. Ishii.
Photo by Ruth Beauchan

The historic preservation violation statute states: “Any person who violates this section shall be fined not more than $10,000 for each separate violation. If the violator directly or indirectly has caused the loss of, or damage to, any historic property or burial site, the violator shall be fined an additional amount determined by the court or an administrative adjudicative authority to be equivalent to the value of the lost or damaged historic property or burial site. Each day of continued violation of this provision shall constitute a distinct and separate violation for which the violator may be punished. Equipment used by a violator for the taking, appropriation, excavation, injury, destruction, or alteration of any historic property or burial site, shall be subject to seizure and disposition by the State without compensation to its owner or owners.”
In addition to the historic preservation fines, the DLNR points to penalties for violations of Land Use Conservation District administrative rules:
“The Board of Land & Natural Resources may subject individuals to fines of up to $15,000 per violation in addition to administrative costs. If activity continues after written or verbal notice from the DLNR, willful violation may incur an additional fine of up to $15,000 per day per violation for each day in which the violation persists.”
The issue came up last week when community members saw Velaj excavating at the wharf and asked him to stop. Protectors of the wharf camped there to protect it, live streamed and posted video of the activities and made reports to county and state officials as well as SM Investment Partners, owners of the wharf, boat ramp and surrounding land. SM canceled the license for Hang Loose to operate boat tours from its property.

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Nalu Elaisa

A CALL TO KA`U POLICE concerning a burglary on Paradise Parkway led to the recent arrest and detention of two suspects in Ocean View.
According to police reports, the neighbor who saw the burglary in progress confronted a 21-year-old man, who attempted to run the neighbor over after he threatened to call the police. The neighbor provided details to the police, and that lead to the identification of Nalu Elaisa as the suspect. Police apprehended Elaisa and discovered that the vehicle he used for the burglary was reportedly stolen.
A search warrant was executed on the stolen vehicle and residence on Coconut Drive. Police reportedly found drugs and drug related paraphernalia in the vehicle and stolen items from the burglary in the residence. The police also arrested a 31-year-old woman, Klevette Kawaileihua Kainoa as a suspect in burglary, theft and drug offenses. She is being held pending further investigations.

Klevette Kainoa

Elaisa is being held in lieu of a $23,500 bail, and is facing charges for burglary, reckless endangering, terror threats, unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle, promotion of a dangerous drug, promotion of a detrimental drug and drug paraphernalia.
Ka’u Police Captain Kenneth Quiocho commented: “Had it not been for the neighbors looking out for each other in Ocean View this might have been another unsolved crime. Neighborhood Watch works, and just telling your neighbor when you are leaving town to keep a watch on your residence is a good practice to deter crime and opportunities for criminals to commit crimes.”
Quiocho added: “It really was a great team effort involving the police and the community working in partnership to solve crimes. I am very impressed with the cooperative work by our people on this case.”
The public is encouraged to get involved in Neighborhood Watch programs and to continue to be vigilant and to call police (935-3311 non-emergency) or crime stoppers (961-8300) with information that can assist solving crimes, said police officers.

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Coffee Talk, Fri, June 30, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. An informal conversation on a wide variety of topics. Ka‘ū coffee, tea and pastries available for purchase. Free.

Ocean View Community Development Corp. meeting, Fri, June 30, 5 p.m., Hawaiian Ranchos office.

www.kaucalendar.com

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017

Managing traffic at South Point to prevent erosion and damage of historic sites is one of the aims.
Image from South Point Resources Management Plan

SOUTH POINT RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLAN will be the topic of an Environmental Impact Assessment and community organizations and government agencies are invited to weigh in with comments by July 26. The plan, sponsored by the Hawaiian Home Lands Trust, includes some changes at South Point, including an entrance gate, security booth, parking areas and a pedestrian trail and emergency access road to Mahana Bay and Green Sand Beach.
To carry out the Environmental Impact Assessment, Department of Hawaiian Homelands has hired Townscape, Inc. Environmental & Community Planning, the O`ahu firm that also worked on the Ka`u Community Development Plan.

According to a letter from Dr. Angela Fa`anunu, of Townscape, the EA is required by Hawai`i law for the implementation of theSouth Point Resources Management Plan. "DHHL is proposing to implement the RMP in order to protect and restore natural and cultural resources on DHHL lands at South Point. The project area is located in the ahupua`a of Kama`oa-Pou`ueao," Fa`anunu writes in the letter sent to various stakeholders.
According to Townscape, South Point Resources Management Plan was developed after gathering information from consultations with community members from Ka`u. See notes online from one of the community SpeakOut sessions in Na`alehu.
There were two community meetings and a series of talk-story sessions. Fa`anunu reports that through the outreach process, four major goals were identified for South Point:
Restore, preserve and protect cultural and natural resources;
Perpetuate native Hawaiian culture; values, history and language for future generations;
Provide a safe, clean and friendly environment; and
Generate revenue in order to sustainably fund cultural and natural resources activies and provide economic opportunities for DHHL beneficiaries and their families.
The entire South Point Resources Management Plan can be read online.
The letter offers the highlights and says that "Unregulated access to DHHL lands at South Point has compromised the integrity of its heritage sites and of coastal ecosystems. Specifically, heavy use of recreational trucks, ATVs, and motor bikes has not only destroyed sacred sites but has resulted in widespread soil and sand erosion. The unregulated use of off-road vehicles, coupled with the site's exposure to the prevailing winds, has left the natural and cultural resources of South Point in critical condition."

Comments for the Draft Environmental Assessment for the South Point
Resources Management Plan are due July 26.
Photo from South Point Resources Management Plan

To address these threats and accomplish the Resource Management Plan goals, the plan proposes several priority projects for South Point, which are clustered in four main areas and include:
Installation of an entrance gate at the intersection of Kalae Road and South Point Road, and a security booth .75 miles north of the intersection, along South Point Road;
Two designated parking areas at the "Barracks" near the Kaulana Boat Ramp and at Ka Lae;
A cultural interpretive walking trail at Ka Lae with associated signage and protective barriers around cultural sites; and
A pedestrian path and an emergency access road extending from the "Barracks" to Mahana, Green Sands Bay.
Comments are welcomed "on any issues, policies, or regulations that your agency or organization would like to see addressed in the Draft Environmental Assessment related to the proposed actions," the letter concludes. Fa`anunu can be reached at 808-227-8855 or faanunu@townscapeinc.com.

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The land where the Hawaiian Springs Water Bottling Plan was planned
for Pahala is going up for auction on July 28.

A FORECLOSURE AUCTION FOR THE PROPOSED HAWAIIAN SPRINGS WATER BOTTLING PLANT SITE IN PAHALA is scheduled for the courthouse in Hilo on Friday, July 28 at noon. Up for auction will be the 60 acres that includes the old Ka`u Sugar Mill site and its warehouse, the old Pahala Plantation Store and KAHU Radio building, and the tunnel to the fresh water spring where the bottling company had planned to extract water. The auction also includes a .06 acre lot with the building that housed Office of Economic Opportunity and in sugar community days, a restaurant in the camp housing area.
An open house for prospective bidders will be held on Sunday, July 9 and 10 from 10 a.m. to noon.

Sierra Club flier regarding proposed Pahala Town
Square & Hawaiian Springs Facility.

The property received a plan approval last October from former county planning director Duane Kanuha for Pahala Town Square & Hawaiian Springs Facility, proposed by Al Kam and partners. It was opposed by the Sierra Club, Hawai`i Wildlife Fund and The Surfrider Foundation.
The plan called for more than 130,000 square feet of buildings, more than three times the size of the new Ka`u District Gym. Included were tour bus and van parking stalls and 10,000 square feet of retail space. Concerns voiced by the community included preservation of historic buildings and an old sugar mill yard wall, maintaining the quiet residential neighborhoods and walkable streets near the old mill site, the number of jobs that would be created by the bottling plant, and questions about using the aquifer to fill plastic bottles with water that would be sold out of the state for use in Asia and other international markets.
The Notice of Foreclosure reveals that Third Circuit Court ordered the sale of the property after John N. Sarado sued PMK Partners, LLC for money owed on the property. The estimated debt is approximately $1.4 million owed by PMK Partners to Sarado. However, the auction will be held with no upset price. The court appointed an attorney, Louis P. Mendonca, of Hilo, to be the commissioner for the auction. He can be reached at 961-6690.
The auction on July 28 will be at the entrance area of Hale Kaulike, the State Judiciary Building at 777 Kilauea Ave. in Hilo. Anyone bidding must provide at least 10 percent of the winning bid in cash, money order or certified or chashier's check at the auction. Potential bidders must be able to provide proof of ability to comply with paying the 10 percent in order to participate in the auction.

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Coffee Talk, Fri, June 30, 9:30 – 11 a.m., Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. An informal conversation on a wide variety of topics. Ka‘ū coffee, tea and pastries available for purchase. Free.

Ocean View Community Development Corp. meeting, Fri, June 30, 5 p.m., Hawaiian Ranchos office.

Ham Radio Operators Potluck Picnic, Sun, July 2, 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

Painting with Peggy, Mon, July 3 & 17, 12 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. $20/$15 VAC members. 967-8222

Volcano parade on July 4 at 9 a.m. will be followed by the Na`alehu
Independence Day Parade and Rodeo on Saturday, July 8.
Photo by Julia Neal

Volunteer Fire Department Meeting, Mon, July 3, 4 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033

Fourth of July Breakfast Buffet, Tue, 6:30 – 11 a.m., Kīlauea Military Camp’s Crater Rim Café in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Sweet bread French toast, omelet station, bacon, pork patties, breakfast potatoes, steamed rice, oatmeal with raisins, watermelon & a beverage. Adults $12; children 6 –11 $6. Open to authorized patrons & sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356

Volcano Village Fourth of July, Tue, July 4. Parade begins at 9 a.m. at Post Office and ends at Cooper Center, where family festivities continue.

www.kaucalendar.com

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017

The old Pahala Theater is gone but the KAHU Radio building and old Plantation Store remains on the
proposed Ka`u Sugar Mill Park property. Photo by Julia Neal

THE OLD KA`U SUGAR MILL SITE has been suggested by community members to be on the acquisition list of the county Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission. The application, sent in on Friday by Dorothy Silva Kalua, of Pahala, says the 66 acres could become the Ka`u Sugar Mill Park.
The application states that acquisition of the land for a county park would benefit the public. "The historic sugar mill site would make an excellent park for Pahala with historic sites from sugar plantation days, the remains of the mill and three possible recreation buildings. The old plantation tunnel access to spring water could possibly be developed in the future for backup county water for the community in times of drought.

Remains of the Ka`u Sugar Mill wall. Photo by Julia Neal

"Ka`u Sugar Mill Park would also be a buffer between the macadamia processing plant and the residential town. In the long term, some of the open space could possibly become a county campground to take pressure off nearby Punalu`u and to provide the closest campground to Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. A campground could also be used by groups coming to Pahala for sports camps and competition at the new county owned Ka`u Gym, which is in walking distance.

Cane trucks dropped their load over the wall, a
first step in processing sugar.

"Other open space areas could possibly be used as a community garden, for which the nearby Boys & Girls Club has been looking for a site. Among existing agricultural assets are the many mango trees in the old mill camp where housing was taken down by the plantation. It was once the site of an Outdoor Circle Mango Festival. Another use of public lands for the community is for a county cemetery as the nearest one is in Na`alehu."
The application says that significant historic and cultural resources include the old plantation restaurant building, formerly site of the Office of Economic Opportunity, and the Old Mill Warehouse, which is the size of a small gymnasium and could be rebuilt to use for recreation on the existing concrete foundation.
There is the KAHU Radio building, formerly a dentist office, pool hall and classroom for economic development when the sugar plantation closed. The building has an original mural showing the old sugar camps of Ka`u.
The land also has extraordinary views of the Ka`u Coast and Ka`u mountains. It has brick chimneys and stone walls from plantation days. The old sugar wall was planned by elders for engraving of sugar worker names, showing the ethnic diversity of the community.
The tunnel to the old mill spring underground has a railroad track.
The property was in foreclosure in late June with an auction at the Hilo courthouse scheduled for July 28. An open house is scheduled for July 9 and 10 at the property on Maile Street in Pahala. In order for the property to be considered for acquisition by the county, there would have to be a buyer at the auction who could become a willing seller to the county at a price not above an appraisal.
The property would also have to be selected by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission before going to the County Council for approval to negotiate with whomever will be the owner, should the property be approved.

Clyde Silva supports preservation of
the Ka`u Sugar Mill Wall and collects
history of the Plantation.
Photo by Julia Neal

The land was planned for a water bottling plant, which received a plan approval from the former county planning director last fall, before it fell into foreclosure. Part of the property would have been used as Pahala Town Square, with retail and parking for cars, vans and tour buses.
During discussions on the bottling plant, community members talked about preserving the Sugar Mill Wall. Clyde Silva wrote, “It would be most desirable to recognize one of the most significant structures in Pahala town. This wall has been there for over 100 years and played a key role in the sugar cane production.
“Trucks full of cane drove up the ramp on one side of the wall, dropping their load over the wall as the first step in the processing. Truck after truck after truck went up beside the wall. It was important, and it is one of the few remaining structures from the sugar era.
“The wall is approximately 110 feet long, 12 feet in height, with the ramp about 20 feet wide.
“There has been a sense of sadness as the town has watched this memorable structure decay.
“This seems like the perfect time to plan for this symbol of the past, a symbol of our history to be a part of the plans. A part of the plans for the future," wrote Silva.

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Ham Radio Operators Potluck Picnic, Sun, July 2, 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

Painting with Peggy, Mon, July 3 & 17, 12 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. $20/$15 VAC members. 967-8222

Volunteer Fire Department Meeting, Mon, July 3, 4 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033

Fourth of July Breakfast Buffet, Tue, 6:30 – 11 a.m., Kīlauea Military Camp’s Crater Rim Café in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Sweet bread French toast, omelet station, bacon, pork patties, breakfast potatoes, steamed rice, oatmeal with raisins, watermelon & a beverage. Adults $12; children 6 –11 $6. Open to authorized patrons & sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356

Volcano Village Fourth of July, Tue, July 4. Parade begins at 9 a.m. at Post Office and ends at Cooper Center, where family festivities continue.

www.kaucalendar.com

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017

Girls basketball coach Cy Lopez with his new Hokulele Basketball Club hosting boys and girls summer teams
from afar at the new Ka`u Gym. Photo by Jen Makuakane

Ka`u Gives Back: Kyson Toriano, Keanu Pascubillo, Kaikea Kaupu-Manini,

Micah Polido-Kalili, Andre Carvalho, Weston Davis, Raymond

Polido-Kalili, Masen Dacalio, Cy Lopez Jr. prepare to escort residents

from the veterans home to their fishing grounds.

Photo by Jen Makuakane

HOKULELE BASKETBALL CLUB is helping to bring attention and attendance in Pahala. Hokulele held its first Summer Jam in the Ka`u District Gym on June 26 and 27. Teams joined in from Idaho, Pahoa, Kea`au, Ka`u and Hilo. Both boys and girls trained and competed.
Ka`u High Girls basketball coach and President of Hokulele, Cy Lopez, and crew organized the event at the Ka`u gym, which promises to become a magnet for sports camps, workshops and competitions from around the state and beyond.
Last Thursday, Hokulele boys Basketball of Ka`u extended their reach and spent the morning with residents of Yukio Okutsu Veterans State Home, helping with their annual fishing trip to Coconut Island.

Raymond Polido-Kalili helps a veterans home
resident catch a fish at Coconut Island.
Photo by Jen Makuakane

Staycn Sakuma, Recreation Director at Yukio, was born and raised in Ka`u and said she wanted to bring out the Ka`u youth to experience giving back to the community. "What better way than volunteering at the yearly fishing excursion," she said. Sakuma said she plans on continuting to host Ka`u youth volunteers at future events. Next month, she and the Yuko residents will welcome the girls's team of Hokulele Baskteball Club.

Teams from as far away as Idaho tried out the new
Ka`u District Gym. Photo by Jen Makuakane

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FOURTH OF JULY PARADE AT VOLCANO DRAWS community groups, politicians, religious groups, a pet rescue sanctuary and many more members of the Volcano and Ka`u Community. Miss Ka`u Coffee and her court will ride in the parade down Old Volcano Road to Cooper Center. The parade begins at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, July 4, followed by music, food, snippets from community plays, and arts, crafts, plants and agricultural booths.

Miss Ka`u Coffee queen and princesses plan to
join the Volcano Fourth of July Parade.
Photo by Pam Taylor

KILAUEA ERUPTIVE EVENTS RIVAL the excitement of July Fourth fireworks, say the Hawai`i Volcanoes Observatory USGS scientists who made this week's Volcano Watch a series of photos with explosive drama. They offer this message:
"With July 4th just around the corner, we look forward to the long-standing traditions of Independence Day—parades, picnics, and especially, fireworks! The holiday hardly seems complete without a brilliant display of pyrotechnics as its grand finale. It’s fun to hear delighted spectators 'ooh' and 'ahh' with each boom and burst of color as exploding fireworks light the night sky.

On the Island of Hawaiʻi, similar sounds of wonder and delight can be heard on Kīlauea Volcano, which, for many years, has captivated onlookers with its own version of “fireworks.” From small flows oozing at a snail’s pace to torrents of molten rock shooting skyward, red-hot lava attracts crowds of enthralled observers, like moths to a flame. "So, with the Fourth of July serving as inspiration, this week’s Volcano Watch is a photo essay featuring notable images from Kīlauea Volcano’s two ongoing eruptions: East Rift Zone (Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō), which began in 1983, and summit (Halemaʻumaʻu), which began in 2008.

"Kīlauea has been erupting nearly non-stop for the past 34-plus years. But those years have been punctuated with stunning and dramatic eruptive events that rival the island’s best fireworks shows. Examples include the episodic high lava fountains erupted during the first few years of the Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō eruption and the spectacular fireworks-like displays of incandescent spatter from the explosive interaction of lava and seawater at ocean entries.

This spectacular lava fountain, erupting from Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō on June 30, 1984,

lasted just over 7 hours and reached a height of 318 m (1043 ft). It

was one of 44 high lava fountains erupted during the first 3.5 years of Kīlauea

Volcano’s ongoing EastRift Zone eruption, which began in January 1983.

Fallout from the fountains piled up around the vent, building the

cinder-and-spatter cone that was named Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō. The lava fountains,

some of which reached heights greater than 457 m (1500 ft), could

be seen tens of miles away and their radiant heat could be felt more than

a mile from the vent. USGS Photo by J.D. Griggs

"Have a safe and happy July Fourth holiday—and enjoy these “fiery” images of Kīlauea. More eruption photos are available on the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory website: https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/
volcanoes/kilauea/
multimedia_
chronology.html."

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Ham Radio Operators Potluck Picnic, Sun, July 2, 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

Painting with Peggy, Mon, July 3 & 17, 12 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. $20/$15 VAC members. 967-8222

Volunteer Fire Department Meeting, Mon, July 3, 4 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033

Fourth of July Breakfast Buffet, Tue, 6:30 – 11 a.m., Kīlauea Military Camp’s Crater Rim Café in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Sweet bread French toast, omelet station, bacon, pork patties, breakfast potatoes, steamed rice, oatmeal with raisins, watermelon & a beverage. Adults $12; children 6 –11 $6. Open to authorized patrons & sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356.

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Longtime surfers, fishermen, campers and stewards of Kawa won approval for their
Na Mamo O Kawa group to receive $45,000 to help take care of the place.
Photo by Julia Neal

NA MAMO O KAWA will likely receive a $45,000 grant to help steward the 700 acres of public lands at Kawa. The County Council Finance Committee approved the grant from the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission last week. Council member Maile David recommended the choice of the organization saying that its members have long ties to Kawa. It is comprised of many young people of Ka`u, who grew up surfing, throwing net, camping, fishing and going to Kawa with their families. Among them are Larry Kaui Felder, Kai McGuire and James Akau, who said that they want to "give back to a place that has created our identity."

In recommending Na Mamo, the council member said, "This is a special situation because when I investigated this further, I found out that this group was involved from the very beginning when Uncle Able Louie (who lived at Kawa for decades) was asked to leave. That was a very sensitive issue and it was very difficult to deal with and I know that when they tried to have a first community meeting, this particular group came forward and wanted to care for the place, seriously take care of it because they come from Ka`u. They are related to Auntie Pele Hanoa," noted David. "They are so tied to this community that I didn't realize."

Na Mamo O Ka`u made a presentation about stewarding Kawa
in 2013 where Able Louie, who lived there for decades, also
talked about its future. Photo by Julia Neal

She pointed to a time line showing that the group started caring for Kawa before 2012. "They have been doing maintenance and caring for this place since then, working with the prior administration, using their own funds, their own donation of hard time to care for this place. I personally went on a field trip when the entire football team from Kamehameha Schools went down on a cleaning. It was a great day and you guys have been doing a great job," David told Na Mamo members attending the council committee meeting.

She said that "when we talk about having our younger generation carry on this malama `aina, seriously, - we talk about it. You folks are living it and you folks are doing it and you folks have done it since the very beginning and on your own time and now I feel that it's appropriate that we support you and allow you to get some help with this maintenance fund. That's what it was created for and I think you folks have demonstrated what we as, older people...have dreamed about because it's a lot of commitment. And for us that's been through years of trying to advocate for taking care of our resources, our cultural resources, it's not easy. And I recognize that you folks are an example of what we, at least I, see in our young people, the commitment that I wish I had when I was your age. It makes me really happy that you folks are following through, not only following through but you guys are committed because you come from the place and you're connected, you can't replace that."

"You folks have demonstrated above and beyond that you folks really love this place and you're taking care of it and you're not getting in the middle of being torn between issues except caring for the place."

A 2013 photo of a sovereignty flag at a Kawa entrance where Na Mamo
O Kawa proposes game cams for security and security guards who are
also trained in cultural and resource management.
Photo by Geneveve Fyvie

During a question period, Na Mamo O Ka`u member James Akau said there will be passive ways of implementing security for the public at Kawa with game cams near the entrance and at the beach. He said a security guard funded, in part by the grant, would not only be trained in security but also someone trained in cultural and natural resource management. Akau said he has been working with Mauna Kea Watershed Alliance for the game cam component.

Another Na Mamo member, Larry Kaui Felder, of Pahala, who is a licensed security guard and works at the Pahala Transfer Station, said he has been one of those who has volunteered at Kawa "since day one." He said when Kawa was shut off from public, he would walk from Ninole to Kawa to surf and take care of the place I love." He said the motto is, "Don't be a grumbler, be a worker. Don't step over the trash, pick it up." He pointed to "Uncle Able, many other elders, my grandparents and many more. The right idea, be taught by the older people and carry it on. We can show the next one to take over. We just want to keep the place safe, accessible for the public, and nice and presentable." He noted that Kawa receives a lot of caring, including from a group of about 70 Youth Challenge cadets who recently volunteered there.

Regarding to Na Mamo's low key approach to stewarding Kawa, Felder said, "We wanted to make sure we didn't bite off more than we can chew. We wanted to do this from the beginning; we didn't want to make ourselves look like we're asking for a whole bunch of money and `ain't going to be able to put out. So show before you're able to ask," is how he presented the organization's humble approach. Felder also described Kawa as "a schoolroom" for learning about life.

The Youth Challenge Academy, above cleaning Green Sand Beach
with Hawai`i Wildlife Fund in June, also volunteers with Na Mamo O Kawa.
Photo from Youth Challenge

With more on security at Kawa, James Akau said "in the greater scheme, creating or cultivating a culture of caring, I think, creates a safer space and creates less opportunity for individuals to commit crimes." He said that by bringing children down and by putting up signage and maintaining the space, the attitudes shift there. He said Na Mamo volunteers have been cleaning up old camp sites where, perhaps, drug addicts lived. Akau said he noticed in time the place had started "taking care of itself " and that people who started using the space saw the etiquette established and followed suit. "Creating a culture of caring shifts the energy of the place," he said.

Felder also asked that a salt pan stone, which was earlier relocated from Kawa to walkway at the County Building, be returned to Kawa. "It's purpose is not to grow mildew but to dry salt. Return the rock home," said Felder. "It's not hard, it's simple. We are not asking to build a mansion. We are just asking for something to be returned."

Felder described Kawa for his family, as a place to get away from park pavilions and tour buses, as well as South Point which is crowded with tourists.

Concerning groups involved in caring for Kawa, Akau mentioned a Halau Kupukupu summer program with 46 students; cadets from Youth Challenge; STEM programs from U.H. Hilo; volunteers for Ka`u community workdays, and Willie Kapiko and Miloli`i community members who are asking to volunteer. He said Conservation International, Boys & Girls Club, and Sen. Kai Kahele are also supportive.

See the film of the meeting at www.bigislandvideo.com.

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Painting with Peggy, Mon, July 3 & 17, 12 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. $20/$15 VAC members. 967-8222

Fourth of July Breakfast Buffet, Tue, 6:30 – 11 a.m., Kīlauea Military Camp’s Crater Rim Café in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Sweet bread French toast, omelet station, bacon, pork patties, breakfast potatoes, steamed rice, oatmeal with raisins, watermelon & a beverage. Adults $12; children 6 –11 $6. Open to authorized patrons & sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356.

Fourth of July Parade in Volcano begins at 9 a.m. with entertainment, food, crafts, educational booths to follow at Cooper Center.

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Madam Pele's fireworks, in a series of photos issued for this week's Volcano Watch, from the U.S.G.S.
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. This photo was taken on the evening of June 30, 2008, when littoral
explosions at Kīlauea Volcano’s Waikupanaha ocean entry created a fireworks-like display as incandescent
fragments of lava flew through the air. When molten lava entered the sea, the water flashed to steam,
triggering explosions that hurled spatter and other lava fragments up to heights of 50 m (164 ft).
Spatter accumulating on the sea cliff above the ocean entry formed a littoral cone, aglow
here from the fallout of still-hot fragments. USGS photo by D. Dow

THE TINY HOUSE BILL, which was passed by the state legislature this year, is on the veto list by Gov. David Ige. The legislation would allow small homes on agricultural properties for farm workers only. The state Department of Agriculture, County of Hawai`i Planning Department and Hawai`i Farm Bureau opposed it, claiming it would be a loophole to allow tourist huts and substandard housing for anyone on farm land.

Hawai`i Farmers Union is urging citizens to ask
the governor to sign the Tiny House Bill.

Hawai`i Farmers Union United and several other groups supported the bill, noting that farms and ranches need affordable, onsite housing for workers and farmers' families. A notice form the organization says, "Tiny House Legislation is in Danger! It is time to demand Hawai`i - Tiny Houses on Farms for Food Independence." It urges letting the governor and state senators and representatives know "you get the 'housing-food' connection and want them to make this happen." Farmers Union claims that tiny houses on farms equals more workers on farms, equals more food independence. Talking points include: "On-Farm Housing (not other housing needs); low building cost that only Tiny Houses allows; understanding a farm is not run buy one worker alone, more housing is needed on all farms; and Tiny Houses offer flexible, affordable housing solutions, fast!"

Farmers Union is asking for support by July 6 and provides a link to the governor for correspondence.

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A BILL TO RESTRICT AQUARIUM FISH COLLECTING WILL LIKELY BE VETOED by Gov. David Ige. The governor announced that he does not believe that science supports claims made in the bill. "It will be premature to ban aquarium collection before doing the necessary studies," wrote the governor, noting that the state Department of Land & Natural Resources will work with stakeholders on a different solution for managing any limits on those fish that are collected for aquariums.

Convict tang, left, are collected for aquariums from Hawaiian
waters. NOAA photo by Claire Fackler.

The bill passed the 2017 Hawai`i state legislature and would have directed DLNR to come up with policies leading to sustainable collection practices of near shore aquatic life. These would include limits to collecting and the determination of resources required by the state to manage and police the areas where fish and other aquatic resources are collected. It would also have put an end to new aquarium collecting permits and would have banned transferring most current permits and those that have not been renewed for five or more years.

The justification for the veto is that the state needs more time to determine sustainable rates of collection before rejecting permit renewals. The state also contended that the collection practices in West Hawai`i currently show little decline in aquarium fish populations, with some fish populations increasing.

Sen. Russell Ruderman urged the governor to refrain from vetoing the bill. He called the legislation "the least we can do to address the situation" and "a first step." Ruderman applauded the governor for having "boldly stepped forward to do our part with the climate agreement bill, committing our state to do our part in the face of federal rollback," and urged him to "do our part to protect our oceans with our without federal leadership." The senator pointed to Pres. Donald Trump threatening to take away federal protections on the largest marine preserve in the world, which is in and around Hawaiian waters.

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GOV. DAVID IGE'S FOURTH OF JULY MESSAGE: "Today we celebrate our freedom and what it means to be American -- and here in Hawai'i, that means celebrating with the spirit of aloha. Our beautiful islands are home to many different traditions, languages, and cultures. On holidays such as today, we come together to celebrate our shared community and look to the future as one.
"I take great pride in our tradition of lōkahi, harmony among our differences. The concept of putting differences aside to work for a greater cause has been fundamental in the growth of the United States. Though our cultures and traditions may differ, the people of Hawaii exhibit the unity that defines the American spirit. Today, let's all take the time to enjoy family, friendship, and freedom -- from sea to shining sea."

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INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE & RODEO this Saturday in Na`alehu with the rodeo continuing all day on Sunday.

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Habitat for Humanity Hawai`i Island is the name of the combination of Habitat for Humanity West Hawai1`i and
Hale Aloha O Hilo Habitat for Humanity.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HAWAI`I ISLAND is the merger between Habitat for Humanity West Hawai`i and Hale Aloha O Hilo Habitat for Humanity. A statement from the new organization on Wednesday says that they "have decided to join forces in the fight against poverty housing, forming Habitat for Humanity Hawai'i Island! With our resources combined, we will now be able to serve even more families!" Habitat for Humanity West Hawai`i has helped families become homeowners in Ocean View. With the two joining, more help with homeownership is expected in all of Ka`u and more volunteer and donor opportunities are expected locally.

Grand Marshall for the parade in Volcano
Photo by Ron Johnson

Jami Beck walks the Volcon Fourth of July Parade as Miss Ka`u Coffee. Photo by Ron Johnson

The statement says that "more families than ever will have the opportunity to break the cycle of poverty and become Habitat homeowners," which usually involves the prospective homeowners and volunteers helping with the construction.

Lady Liberty and Uncle Sam in
the annual Fourth of July Parade
in Volcano. Photo by Ron Johnson

Habitat West Hawai`i has completed dozens of homes, many dozens of critical home repairs, helped revitalize neighborhoods with many projects, and helped with children moving into safe and decent Habitat homes.

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INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATIONS kicked off with the annual parade in Volcano Tuesday morning with participation of Miss Ka`u Coffee Jami Beck and her court. Many local community organizations, the Hawai`i County Band, Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park and classic vehicle owners participated. This weekend is the annual Independence Day parade in Na`alehu on Saturday, followed by the Saturday and Sunday rodeo.

AFTER NORTH KOREA'S RECENT INTERCONTINENTAL BALLISTIC MISSLE test, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard released the following statement:

“North Korea’s latest successful intercontinental ballistic missile test further demonstrates the extremely dangerous and growing threat that North Korea poses to Hawaiʻi, Alaska, and the mainland United States. For the past 15 years, our leaders have let the people of Hawaiʻi and our country down, allowing the situation in North Korea to worsen to this point of crisis where we are left with nothing but bad options. We must ensure we are able to defend against North Korea’s threat with cutting-edge missile defense technologies, but this is not enough. We must pursue serious diplomatic efforts to de-escalate and ultimately denuclearize North Korea. However, U.S. leaders need to understand that Kim Jong Un maintains a tight grip on North Korea’s nuclear weapons as a deterrent against regime change. The Trump Administration would be far more credible in finding a diplomatic solution with North Korea if we weren’t currently waging a regime change war in Syria, and contemplating a regime change war in Iran.

Hawai`i County Band marches through Volcano on July 4.
Photo by Ron Johnson

“The North Korean regime witnessed the regime change wars the U.S. led in Libya and Iraq and what we’re now doing in Syria, and fear they will become like Gadhafi who, after giving up his nuclear weapons program, was deposed by the United States.

“As long as the U.S. is waging regime change wars, we are far less likely to reach a diplomatic solution in North Korea because they have no reason to believe our promises. In fact, we are far more likely to see nuclear proliferation by countries like North Korea who see nuclear weapons as their only deterrent against regime change.

Knights of Columbus are associated with the St. Marianne Cope Council.
Photo by Ron Johnson

“Serious diplomacy on the Korean Peninsula will require an end to our regime change war in Syria and a public statement that the U.S. will not engage in regime change wars and nation-building overseas, including in Iran and North Korea. We should focus our limited resources on rebuilding our own country and seriously commit ourselves to de-escalating this dangerous stand-off with North Korea and negotiate a peaceful diplomatic solution.”

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Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park parades its native species in Volcano Parade. Photo by Ron Johnson

Science Camps of Anerica, training youth from its summer base in
Pahala, marches each year in an Independence Day Parade.
Photo by Ron Johnson

SEARCH FOR A MISSING FISHERMAN AT WAIKAPUNA AND KAMILO, north of Ka`alualu, Ka‘ū police and rescue crews continued to search at Waikapuna and Kamilo North of Ka`alualu today.
Police investigating the incident learned that Shane Romena, 48-years-old of Ocean View, was fishing in the area with his ten-year-old grandson Keaka McDonnell, also of Ocean View. While trying to fill a cooler with ocean water for the live bait the grandfather fell into the water.
The grandson lost sight of the grandfather about 100 feet out. He immediately called 911 and Fire Rescue Engine 11 with the County Helicopter, Chopper 1 and Chopper 2 responded to the scene to help search for the grandfather.

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At about 7:30 p.m., HFD called off the search but resumed looking for the grandfather this morning. HFD will be using the area near the Hana Hou Restaurant as a staging area as they continue the search. There is no suspected foul play at this time. A public accident investigation has been initiated.

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Open Mic Night, Wed, July 5, 6 – 10 p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp’s Lava Lounge in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Open to authorized patrons & sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. Call 967-8365 after 4 p.m. to sign up.

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch meeting, Thu, July 6, 7 p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-2442 & 928-2015

Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death, Thu, July 6, 7 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. Dr. Lisa Keith, of USDA, discusses the fungus that is attacking and destroying ‘ōhi‘a. Free.

Tropical Flower Arranging with Kaipo Ah Chong, Fri, July 7, 1 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. $45 + $20 supply fee. 967-8222

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Finans' Rainbow cast preludes the show at Fourth of July celebration at Cooper Center. The play opens Friday
at Kilauea Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Photo by Ron Johnson

KUPUNA CAREGIVING, HEALTHY AGING AND FOSTER CARE PROGRAMS received Gov. David Ige's signature in ceremonies at the Capitol on Thursday.
HB 607 -- Kupuna Caregivers Program authorizes the Executive Office on Aging to establish the Kupuna Caregivers Program to assist community members obtaining care for elders while remaining in the workforce.
HB 615– Healthy Aging Partnership Program appropriates funds for the Healthy Aging Partnership Program to further the program’s role in improving the health and well-being of Hawai‘i’s kupuna.
HB 1396 – Community Care Foster Homes for Medicaid authorizes the Department of Health, working with the Department of Human Services, to allow two private-pay individuals to be cared for in the same community care foster family home, after consideration of specified relevant factors.

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Flood insurance is available for inland and coastal regions of Ka`u,
with new maps that help determine eligibility and rates at such
places as along Wood Valley road where rains from Hurricane Ana
created flood waters in 2014. Photo by Julia Neal

HAWAI`I IS ONCE AGAIN ELIGIBLE FOR NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE and policies will be renewed and new ones accepted. Gov. Daivd Ige signed a bill on Monday that brings Hawai`i into compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program. At risk were coverage for the individual counties, the State of Hawai`i, FEMA Region IX, and policies issued through the Hawai`i Farm Bureau, Hawai`i Association of Realtors and Hawai`i insurance companies, banks and building contractors.
State Rep. Ryan Yamane, who took the lead on the legislation as chair of the House Water & Land Committee, issued a statement saying, “For many of our residents their homes are the biggest single investment they own. Hawaii` homeowners can trust that their federal flood insurance will remain in place to protect them from future flood disasters.”

“In the last 35 years that Hawai`i has been participating in the program, FEMA paid out 4,600 claims totaling over $87 million. Currently, there are over 60,000 flood insurance policies totaling over $13.4 billion throughout the state, which would have been cancelled without the bill,” said Yamane.

Detailed federal flood maps of Ka`u can be seen on the website gis.hawaiinfip.org/fhat, with
the ability to zoom in on specific properties.

FEMA FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAPS are the subject of Kona and Hilo meetings for the public, sponsored by the County of Hawai`'s Department of Public Works. The Hilo meeting will be Wednesday, July 12 at Aupuni Center Conference Room at 5 p.m. The Kona meeting will be Thursday, July 13 at West Hawai`i Civic Center, Bldg. G at 5 p.m.
Two short formal presentations will start at 5:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. The meetings will be an open house format with multiple stations where the public can learn about a structure’s particular flood zone, flood insurance and building criteria.

Floodwaters make their way through coffee farms up Wood Valley
road in 2014. Photo by Julia Neal

Personnel from FEMA, State of Hawai‘i’s Department of Land and Natural Resources, and Hawai‘i County will be available to answer questions, concerns, and provide information on flood insurance and property specific flood zone determinations.
Flood insurance rates will be based on the new flood data. If a property is mapped into a high-risk area (an SFHA labeled with letters starting with “A” or “V”) on the new FIRM and the owner has a mortgage through a federally regulated or insured lender, flood insurance will be required when the FIRM becomes effective. Property owners who obtain flood insurance before the FIRM becomes effective may be able to benefit from the NFIP’s “grandfathering” insurance rating process and pay a lower premium.
According to a statement from the county, "Everyone is at some risk from flooding, even those behind levees or in low or medium-risk areas. Therefore, FEMA encourages everyone to purchase flood insurance. Property owners should contact their insurance agent or visit www.FloodSmart.gov for more information."
The newest Flood Information Maps are available online by using the state Flood Hazard Assessment Tool at gis.hawaiinfip.org/fhat. To learn how to view the preliminary maps using the FHAT, click on the tutorial link provided on the Hawai‘i NFIP Website dlnreng.hawaii.gov/nfip/.

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FINIAN'S RAINBOW OPENS ON FRIDAY. It is Kīlauea Drama & Entertainment Network's annual summer musical. Director is Suzi Bond, with musical direction by Walter Greenwood.The show runs July 7 – 23 with performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 at KMC’s Kīlauea Theater. Tickets are $20 general, $15 for seniors 60 plus and students and $12 for children 12 and under, and are available at Kīlauea General Store and at the door.

Opening on Broadway in 1947 with music by Burton Lane and lyrics by E.Y. “Yip” Harburg (who wrote the lyrics for 1939’s The Wizard of Oz), Finian’s Rainbow was an unexpected smash that generated one pop classic after another: How Are Things In Glocca Morra?, Old Moon and Look To The Rainbow to name but three.

Finian moves to the southern United States (the fictional state of Missitucky) from Ireland with his daughter Sharon to bury a stolen pot of gold near Fort Knox, in the mistaken belief that it will grow and will change people’s lives, including a struggling farmer and local citizens. A leprechaun follows them, desperate to recover his treasure before the loss of it turns him permanently human. Complications arise when a bigoted and corrupt U.S. senator gets involved and when wishes are made inadvertently over the hidden crock.
Primary roles include Finian, his daughter Sharon, Og the leprechaun, Woody Mahoney, town leader and Sharon’s love interest, and Susan Woody’s mute sister who “talks” through her dancing. Other cast members are a gospel quartet and townsfolk, including Henry, who translates for Susan, and Maude.
For more information, call 982-7344 or kden73@aol.com.

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Pancake Breakfast, Sat, July 8, 8 – 11 a.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033

37th Annual Hawaiian Cultural Festival & BioBlitz, Sat, July 8, Kīlauea Military Camp in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Engage in Hawaiian cultural practices and learn how Hawaiians live closely to the land as its stewards. Enjoy hula and music, watch skilled practitioners demonstrate their art, and try your hand at Hawaiian crafts. BioBlitz is a chance to join scientists and cultural practitioners and discover the biodiversity that thrives in the park. Cultural Festival, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; BioBlitz, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Atlas Recycling at South Point U-Cart, Sat, July 8, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Connecting Cords: Hawai‘i Nei Invitational Exhibition, daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., July 8 – Aug 19, Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. The multi-media exhibit showcases works by eight artists focusing on fiber, form and function of Hawai‘i’s cordage plants. Opening day reception, 5 p.m.

Nā‘ālehu Fourth of July Festivities, Sat, July 8. Parade begins at 11 a.m.; Fun Day in the Park, & Senior Bingo & Luncheon at Community Center begin at 12 p.m. 929-9872

Jazz in the Forest, Sat, July 8, 4:30 & 7 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. Hal Glatzer with Jean Pierre Thoma & The Jazztones. $20/$18 VAC members. 967-8222

Kanikapila, Sat, July 8 & 22, 6 – 9 p.m., Nā‘ālehu Methodist Church Hall. Acoustic instruments, drums, singers & dancers welcome. Desmond, 937-6305

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During the March 2011 Kamoamoa fissure eruption on Kīlauea Volcano’s East Rift Zone, spatter from this line of lava fountains just west of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō reached heights of 40 m (130 ft). Events of the short-lived, but spectacular, fissure eruption are summarized in the March 7, 2013, Volcano Watch article, which is available in the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory’s Volcano Watch archive (https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvo/hvo_volcano_watch.html).
See story below. USGS photo by T. Orr

THE SEA GRANT PROGRAM IN HAWAI`I will receive over $1 million in federal funding to support ongoing coastal and marine research, extension, and outreach projects in Hawai`i, Sen. Mazie Hirono announced on Friday.

Earlier this year, in response to the Trump Administration’s effort to eliminate the Sea Grant program, Hirono led the effort to issue a bipartisan letter pushing back and explaining how deep cuts to NOAA would disproportionately hurt Hawai`i and other coastal states. Hirono advocated to Senate colleagues the benefits of Sea Grant not only for University of Hawai`i but for 32 other coastal universities.. Her advocacy helped to ensure the Trump cuts were rejected and that funding for Sea Grant was included in the recently enacted federal budget law that provides funding through Sept. 30, 2017.
“As an island state, Hawai`i’s livelihood is reliant on the health and resilience of our coastal and marine ecosystems,” said Hirono. “Research and conservation efforts conducted by Hawai`i Sea Grant play a critical role in addressing ongoing and future coastal and marine resource issues facing our state. I remain committed to protecting core research and extension programs, like Sea Grant, from the harmful budget cuts proposed by the Trump Administration.”
In 2015, Hawai`i Sea Grant activities resulted in the restoration of 426 acres of coastal habitat, the use of ecosystem-based approaches by 130 resources managers, 37 communities implementing sustainable development practices and policies, and 70 trainings to improve coastal community resilience. Hawai`i Sea Grant created or sustained 46 jobs, leveraged $4 million, educated over 140,000 K-12 students, and supported over 70 undergraduate and graduate students combined.
“Federal funding is critical to Sea Grant's federal-state partnership in connecting the university enterprise to community needs,” said Dr. Darren Lerner, Director of the University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program. “Without the historic and continuing support of Senator Hirono and the Hawai`i delegation, our ability to magnify our federal funding 2-4 times its original value, to provide research, education and outreach in service to the people of Hawaii and the Pacific, would be lost.”
Part of a continuing grant funding award, the program received an additional $1 million in January. To learn more about the program, click here.

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THE VOLCANO WATCH ARCHIVE is a treasure trove of volcano information, say the scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

Replica of a 19th century soda bottle that was sealed with a blue marble

(visible in lower crimp of the bottle). Bottles like this played a part in

creating the bottled soda analogy of how and why volcanoes erupt.

The Halema‘uma‘u Overlook gas plume is visible in the

background. Photo from Volcano Watch

Since 1991, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists have written the weekly Volcano Watch column. While the theme of these articles is generally volcano-related, individual topics range widely. They include updates on current volcanic activity, historic accounts of past eruptions, explanations of monitoring techniques and technology, the comings and goings of HVO staff, and more.

Volcano Watch archive is a treasure trove of information on Hawaiian volcanoes. The recent redesign of HVO’s website (itself the subject of Volcano Watch on May 18, 2017) provides an opportunity to highlight this archive, which is online and freely available to all.

With over 1,000 articles on almost every volcano topic imaginable, the

Readers may find past Volcano Watch articles useful for researching a report or school project, while others simply enjoy perusing the collection. Longtime Hawai`i residents may appreciate a walk down memory lane, and newcomers might welcome a crash course in the history of volcanic activity in Hawai`i.

Since its inception, Volcano Watch has addressed ongoing events at Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. An example is the March 20, 2008, article, Something Had to Change After 25 Years, which provides an account of the events leading up to the opening of Kīlauea Volcano’s current summit vent and the return of a lava lake to Halemaʻumaʻu.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists monitoring Volcano's East

Rift Zone eruptions in 2011. Photo from Volcano Watch

As illustrated by this example, new data and techniques sometimes cause scientists to change their hypotheses for how or why volcanoes behave in a certain way. Volcano Watch articles communicate these changes, providing updated interpretations as they arise.

For instance, the two-part article, Revolution in thinking about Kīlauea explosions comes to HVO (January 19 and 26, 2006), describes the years-long process by which HVO scientists changed their thinking about explosive eruptions at Kīlauea.

Careful mapping of tephra deposits around Kīlauea Volcano’s summit showed that some were the result of ash and other volcanic fragments being thrown up to 5 km (16,000 ft) into the air—high enough to be caught in the jet stream. This suggested that Kīlauea is capable of much more powerful explosions than previously thought, which contributed to it being ranked in a 2005 U.S. Geological Survey report as the highest threat volcano in the United States (https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2005/1164/).

New monitoring instruments and techniques are often the focus of Volcano Watch. Examples: Rainbows on the Ground (November 19, 2015), which tells how satellite data is used to measure a volcano’s changing shape, and Farewell to legacy seismic systems—welcome to ARRA upgrades in Kīlauea Caldera (July 21, 2011). These articles track the evolution of technology employed by HVO and provide a sense of the myriad methods that scientists use to gain knowledge about volcanoes.

Ocean entry of lava. Photo from Volcano Watch

Some of the most timeless Volcano Watch articles detail the history of eruptions in Hawai`i. A look back at Mauna Loa (December 1, 2011), which recaps observations of the volcano’s 1933 eruption. Another article, High Chief Keli`ikuku’s Pride Devastated by Unusually Long Kīlauea Eruption (June 7, 2007), recounts the story of a large Kīlauea lava flow that devastated most of Puna north of Pāhoa before ending around 1470 CE.

History buffs might enjoy

For more recent volcanic activity, check out Looking Back at the Kamoamoa Fissure Eruption (March 7, 2013), a four-day event in 2011. If you’ve wondered about the lava flows along Chain of Craters Road in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, read The Mauna Ulu Eruption: 1969-1974 (May 27, 1994) to learn their origin.

There’s even an article about Volcano Watch: The story behind the ‘Volcano Watch’ Columns (September 30, 2010) is in the archive.

To reach it, go to “Quick Links” in the top right corner of HVO’s homepage (https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvo/). Click on Volcano Watch to open the current article, and then use “Search” to find archived articles by title or date.

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Pancake Breakfast, Sat, July 8, 8 – 11 a.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033

37th Annual Hawaiian Cultural Festival & BioBlitz,Sat, July 8, Kīlauea Military Camp in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Engage in Hawaiian cultural practices and learn how Hawaiians live closely to the land as its stewards. Enjoy hula and music, watch skilled practitioners demonstrate their art, and try your hand at Hawaiian crafts. BioBlitz is a chance to join scientists and cultural practitioners and discover the biodiversity that thrives in the park. Cultural Festival, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; BioBlitz, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Atlas Recycling at South Point U-Cart, Sat, July 8, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Connecting Cords: Hawai‘i Nei Invitational Exhibition, daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., July 8 – Aug 19, Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. The multi-media exhibit showcases works by eight artists focusing on fiber, form and function of Hawai‘i’s cordage plants. Opening day reception, 5 p.m.

Nā‘ālehu Fourth of July Festivities, Sat, July 8. Parade begins at 11 a.m.; Fun Day in the Park, & Senior Bingo & Luncheon at Community Center begin at 12 p.m. 929-9872

Jazz in the Forest, Sat, July 8, 4:30 & 7 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. Hal Glatzer with Jean Pierre Thoma & The Jazztones. $20/$18 VAC members. 967-8222

Kanikapila, Sat, July 8 & 22, 6 – 9 p.m., Nā‘ālehu Methodist Church Hall. Acoustic instruments, drums, singers & dancers welcome. Desmond, 937-6305

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Na`alehu Independence Day Parade, sponsored by O Ka`u Kakou. See more photos in Sunday Ka`u News Briefs.
Photo by Ron Johnson

O KA`U KAKOU'S PARADE TO CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY showed off Ka`u's equestrians, community groups, the county band, police and fire squads and Ka`u businesses on Saturday under the monkeypod trees along Hwy 11.
The parade was followed by the Fourth of July Rodeo at Na`alehu Rodeo Grounds. The rodeo continues all day Sunday. See more photos of the parade and its winners in the Sunday Ka`u News Briefs.

Hawaiian Islands were represented with special colors and flowers.
Photo by Ron Johnson

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THE COAST GUARD suspended its search on Friday for an Ocean View resident, Shane Romena, 48, who was fishing with his grandson when he fell into the ocean on Monday.
A statement from the Coast Guard said, "Our sincerest condolences go out to Romena's family and friends during this difficult time. Suspending a case is never an easy thing to do and it's something that is handled with the utmost care and consideration. We want to thank our partners at the Hawai`i Fire Department for all their assistance during this search," said Senior Chief Petty Officer Brian Wear.

Paniolo of every age rode in the Na`alehu parade.
Photo by Ron Johnson

Hawai`i Fire Department Battalion Chief Michael Hayashida said its search was extended for a full day Friday at the request of the Romena family.

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EVERY PUBLIC SCHOOL IN KA`U will be able to provide free breakfasts and lunches to all students this Fall, under the federal meals program that could be in danger of being cut in the future under the next federal budget.
For now, the service will also be expanded north to Ho`okena Elementary and Honaunau elementary, as well as several other Big Island schools.
Na`alehu and Pahala schools meet the federal threshold of 40 percent of students living in families with incomes of $51,708 or less. Once the threshold is met, all students, no matter their family income, can dine for free on the two meals per school day.

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Merle Becker and family in the annual Independence Day Parade in Na`alehu.
Photo by Ron Johnson

THE HAWAI`I DEMOCRATIC PARTY brought together many community alliances from around the island on Fourth of July at its annual rally in Kona. Hawai`i Wildlife Fund, which cleans up the Ka`u Coast, was represented as well as the Kohala Center, which helps Ka`u Coffee farmers. Also on hand was NOAA and many other advocacy groups for the ocean and social justice.
Rally for Common Ground cofounder Maya Parish said that Fourth of July is "a reminder of occupation and degradation" of the earth and society. She said those who are forlorn about the current political situation can "Put your shadow, put your regrets in front of you because when they are in front of you, you can see them and then you won't stumble back into those same regrets. When we put our shadow and our regrets behind us, then we are not allowed to assimilate them and then that shadow festers and then we get what we're up with on the national level in our country, politically."

Maya Parish, cofounder of Rally for Common Ground.
Photo by David Corrigan of Big Island Video News

Parish recommended, "Allow ourselves to heal to speak about it and to assimilate that so we can move forward in an inclusive and a united society that the world is asking us for now.
'As many people have said, these environmental issues are not partisan, they are for everyone. We all breathe this air. We all drink this water. We all eat this food that grows out of our ground and if we don't do a better job at taking care of it, it will not be here for our future."
Rally for Common Ground cofounder Tonya Colture and Parish helped produce the Women's March in Kona, the Climate March, and the Defend the Sacred event.

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They said they want to amplify the voice the reach of groups and individuals and to build coalitions to increase each other's power." Parish told Democrats, "The reason that we are both inspired to do that work is to bring this progressive agenda forward, to really be the change, make this back into the party of the people so we can be proud to call ourselves Democrats and we can work together for the sustainability, and for the stewardship and for justice on this island, in this state, in this country and in this world."
See more on speeches at the annual July 4 Democratic Rally at www.bigislandvideonews.com

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What We Can Do Now to Data Recorded Way Back When, Tue, July 11, 7 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geophysicist Paul Okubo describes a current look into seismograms from HVO’s first 100 years. Free; park entrance fees apply.

Lei Making Demo, Wed, July 12, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Local cultural practitioner Pua O’Mahoney teaches how to make traditional Hawaiian lei with natural materials that include leaves, flowers and more. Free; park entrance fees apply.

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The 37th Annual Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park Hawaiian Cultural Festival drew many to learn
cultural practices and enjoy hula and music. Photo by Cheryl Cuevas

THE 37TH ANNUAL HAWAI`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK HAWAIIAN CULTURAL FESTIVAL was entitled Hilina‘i Puna, Kālele iā Ka‘ū, which means Puna leans and reclines on Ka‘ū. On Saturday, the festival drew people of all ages to engage in authentic Hawaiian cultural practices and learn how native Hawaiians lived closely to the land as its stewards.

Mules and riders who patrol Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park and help

to rescue injured and stranded hikers stood by at the cultural festival.

Photo by Gabriel Cuevas

Hawaiian herbal medicine and nutrition was
shared at the cultural festival at HVNP.
Photo by Cheryl Cuevas

Attendees enjoyed hula, music and watching and learning art from skilled practitioners. Many residents and visitors tried their hand at Hawaiian crafts.
This year’s festival again included the BioBlitz, when students and adults joined cultural practitioners and discovered the biodiversity that thrives in the park.
The free event was held on grounds of Kilauea Military Camp with the Bioblitz reaching out into the parklands.

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AN OPEN HOUSE FOR THE 60 PLUS ACRES at the old Ka`u sugar mill site was held today for anyone interested in bidding on the property at the Hilo courthouse auction on July 28. The land, which is in foreclosure, had been planned for a water bottling plant and shopping center.
It includes the KAHU radio station building, which is used by Hawai`i Public Radio and for Civil Defense emergency messages to cover this side of the island. Civil Defense invested in the KAHU radio station to make sure Ka`u is covered during warnings and natural disasters.
The land includes sugar plantation walls and other historic remnants that residents have sought to preserve. It also includes the remains of a residential mill camp near Pahala Hongwanji with the stone and concrete remains of stairways to what used to be small sugar homes. There is a mango orchard, an old warehouse and old store and restaurant building.
Community ideas for use of the property, should it become county land, include a campground to take the pressure off of Punalu`u Beach park and Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, particularly with sports events at the new county gym and ballfield in Pahala attracting people needing a place to stay.
A larger venue for festivals and events, including the Ka`u Coffee Festival, which is outgrowing Pahala Community Center; a place for farm and business education as well as an industrial incubator business facility; reviving the radio station where high school kids and keiki play music and learn speaking, broadcasting and news reporting skills were all suggested. One resident from the sugar days recalled that the plantation used to allow skating on the concrete in the main warehouse building.
Several people suggested that the county also help to identify and take care of any toxic waste left over by the sugar plantation to make those areas of the property safe for those who go there.

Lito Arkangel at the cultural festival on Saturday.
Photo by Gabriel Cuevas

The land is between Hwy 11 and Maile Street with part of it extending close to Pahala Hongwanji and property where Ka`u Coffee is grown below the village.
Another open house will be held on Monday from 10 a.m. to noon, with those interested meeting at the radio station building.

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Hat making was popular at the festival.
Photo by Cheryl Cuevas

NEARSHORE AQUATIC LIFE IS THE FOCUS of a campaign by the Environmental Caucus of the Democratic Party of Hawai`i'i, joined by scientists, non-governmental organizations, and numerous individuals who worked hard to make sure SB1240 passed both the state House of Representatives and Senate in 2017. They want to stop Gov. David Ige from vetoing the meassure.

The bill requires the state Department of Land & Natural Resources to submit proposed legislation by the 2019 regular session including a definition of "sustainable," a policy for sustainable collection practices of near shore aquatic life, a process for determining limits on collection practices of near shore aquatic life, and any additional resources required by the department.

It also prohibits issuance of new aquarium permits, transfer of current permits subject to certain provisions, and renewal of permits that have not been renewed for five or more years.

The underwater world of the Northwestern Hawaiian
Islands came to Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.
Photo by Cheryl Cuevas

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"This issue is one of the priority issues chosen by our caucus and our party this legislative session to ensure that our reefs are healthy and vibrant for generations to come," says a statement from the Democratic Party, pointing to an article in in Civil Beat, which it refers to as giving a fair summary of the issue.

The party urges those supporting the bill to email the Governor's Office at Brandon.T.Asuka@hawaii.gov and "let Governor Ige know that you support SB1240. You can also call his office and voice your support: (808) 586-0034."

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What We Can Do Now to Data Recorded Way Back When, Tue, July 11, 7 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geophysicist Paul Okubo describes a current look into seismograms from HVO’s first 100 years. Free; park entrance fees apply.

Lei Making Demo, Wed, July 12, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Local cultural practitioner Pua O’Mahoney teaches how to make traditional Hawaiian lei with natural materials that include leaves, flowers and more. Free; park entrance fees apply.

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017

Wahine get ready to compete at the annual July 4 Rodeo in Na`alehu held this Saturday and Sunday.
Photo by Gabriel Cuevas

KA`U ROPING & RIDING ASSOCIATION'S great family, paniolo rodeo drew many riders, ropers and muggers to Na`alehu Rodeo Grounds on Saturday and Sunday. Families stayed the weekend through hot, dusty fun days. Keiki calf riders, teen and adult wranglers showed off their ranching and equestrian skills. Rodeo Queen was Beanna Gomes.

Before he went wild and scattered
the crowd. Photo by
Gabriel Cuevas

Brown and blue are the colors of this year's Ka`u Roping
and Riding Association 4th of July Rodeo.
Photo by Gabriel Cuevas

Near the close of the rodeo, an angry bull showed off his jumping skills by leaping a fence just before a paniolo was going to ride him. The bull ran across the arena into the the roping events starting gate near the food concession. Trapped, he charged the fence with horns and hoofs. People yelled, "Run," and the crowd scattered, including the food vendor with her money bag.

Rodeo Queen
Breanna Gomes
Photo by Gabriel
Cuevas

Keiki stands tall to watch the rodeo.
Photo by Gabriel Cuevas

The bull became entrapped in a narrow shoot and began to destroy it. About a half dozen paniolo on horseback surrounded and lassoed him, while others cut away fencing to free him.

Here are the winners and sponsors of the Ka`u Roping & Riding Association's July 4 Rodeo:

Dummy Roping, 4 and under, winner was Manaia Balucan, sponsored by Wikiki 76.

Dummy roping 5 to 8 went Mauka Balucan, sponsored by Kaiser Motorcycles.

Goat Undecorating, 4 and Under, went to Manaia Balucan, sponsored by Zia Tita Wroblewski.

Goat Undecorating, 5 to 8, went to Mauka Balucan, sponored by Punalu`u Bake Shop.

Po`o Wai U first place went to Lexis Andrade, sponsored by Mona Wroblewski.

Team 90s winners were Danny Joseph, sponsored by 3-D Welding and Bill Derasin, and

Tying the ribbon on the tail of the steer is a favorite
rodeo event. Photo by Gabriel Cuevas

Dusty Miranda, sponsored by Steven and Phina Wroblewski.

Youth Barrels winner was Mauka Balucan, sponsored by Zia and Li`i Wroblewski Kaluna.

Kane Wahine Day winners were Keola Loando, sponsored by Ka`u Andrade Contracting and Macey Loando, sponsored by Pahala Pops.

Open Daly winners were Brian Dematto, sponsored by Umi Ranch- Robert Kawamoto, and Gregg Mehino, sponsored by Edwin DeLuz Trucking.

This calf waits peacefully after being
lassoed and tied.
Photo by Gabriel Cuevas

Kane Wahine Mugging winners were Jere Benevides, sponsored by Ryan Towing, and Chelsey Fuerte, sponsored by Ryan Auto Parts.

Double Mugging winners were Lexis Andrade, sponsored by Al and Nancy Cabral, and Kaumaka Bean.

Tie Down winner was Keola Loanda, sponsored by CU Hawai`i Federal Credit Union.

Wahine Mugging winners were Nane Nobriga and Corina Stevens. Sponsors were Kim J. Iona, Christine Beck, Denicia Derasin and Gen Shibuiya.

Wahine Breakaway winner was Macey Loando.

Calf Riding winner was Chance Miranda, sponsored by Hana Hou Restaurant.

See more in upcoming Ka`u News Briefs.

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WOULD FBI DIRECTOR NOMINEE Christopher Wray be an independent check on the Trump administration? On Monday, Sen. Mazie Hirono, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, pressed Wray on his commitment to supporting the independent investigation into Russian interference with the 2016 election and fighting hate crimes. Hirono will have further opportunity to question Wray at his nomination hearing Wednesday.

Sen. Mazie Hirono interviewed FBI Directory nominee Chris Wray.

“The unprecedented circumstances surrounding Mr. Wray’s nomination require a commitment to the rule of law," said Hirono. “During his hearing, I will ask him more about his ability to be an independent check on this administration and his approach to fighting the influx of hate crimes we’ve seen since the election.”

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THE BODY OF A 38-YEAR OLD MAN was recovered by park rangers early Sunday morning near the bottom of Kīlauea caldera, reports Jesica Ferracane, Public Affairs Specialist for Hawi`i Volcanoes National Park.

On Saturday, July 9, two visitors discovered a backpack on Crater Rim Trail at approximately 7 p.m. Park dispatch was notified, and rangers searched the caldera rim and floor on foot, but were unable to locate the owner. The search was suspended due to unsafe conditions at night, and resumed at first light yesterday morning, Sun., July 9.

Rangers aboard a helicopter, around 5:35 a.m., found the victim about 250 feet below the caldera rim, in an area that is not currently erupting.

The victim’s name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. An investigation is underway.

Lei Making Demo will be Wednesday at Hawai`i Volcanoes.
NPS Photo

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What We Can Do Now to Data Recorded Way Back When, Tue, July 11, 7 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geophysicist Paul Okubo describes a current look into seismograms from HVO’s first 100 years. Free; park entrance fees apply.

Lei Making Demo, Wed, July 12, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Local cultural practitioner Pua O’Mahoney teaches how to make traditional Hawaiian lei with natural materials that include leaves, flowers and more. Free; park entrance fees apply.

http://kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory_2017

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The KAHU Radio Station Building is on old Pahala sugar mill property presented for acquisition on Monday
to the county Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resource Preservation Commission.
Local shows were broadcast with such hosts as the late Bobby Gomes who invited keiki to play music.
It still serves as the relay station for Hawai`i Public Radio and for emergency broadcasting.
Photo by Julia Neal

SUPPORT FOR KA`U SUGAR MILL PARK was presented to the county Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resource Preservation Commission on Monday. The 60-plus acres are up for auction on July 28, following foreclosure on owners who had planned to build a water bottling plant.

Clyde Silva speaking of Ka`u's
history during Plantation Days.
Photo by Julia Neal

Testimony from Pahala resident Clyde Silva said, "This site of the former sugar factory, mill yard and old plantation camps offers this community and island a rare opportunity to remember and reflect on an era that is so rich in the history of our community and its people. A way of remembering where we came from, and who are are. It would serve as a way to teach the young generations and generations to come, of the history and culture of the area and the state of Hawai`i, which is offered nowhere else on this island."

"The park could also provide for recreation and community events and camping," recommended Silva.

Volunteers and contractors using Civil Defense money moved equipment

in October 2011 to a communications tower to provide a broader reach

for KAHU-FM Radio. Photo by Julia Neal

Other testimony included support to preserve the old KAHU radio station building, which is now the location for Hawai`i Public Radio broadcasting into Ka`u. The radio station building from the early 1900s was Hilo Bank, then Bank of Hawai`i, a dentist office, pool hall, economic development classroom and radio station. It features a mural of plantation days and the old sugar camps where the grandparents and great grandparents of many Pahala residents lived as immigrants to Hawai`i.

The building supports Civil Defense through emergency radio transmissions. Civil Defense funds were used to establish the station since Ka`u was otherwise without emergency broadcasting. It was also a community radio station where the late Bobby Gomes and other hosts invited keiki to play music on the air.

Kamuela resident Lynn Fraguen who visits Ka`u, wroted the commissioners: "The old mill and Ka`u residents have been a highly ignored part of the history of our state. Respect for this part of our history needs to be preserved and honored in such a way that both look back and look forward."

Pahala residents Gabriel and Cheryl Cuevas sent in a number of ideas for the land, including: camping area for guest visitors
with historical info on area, including how residents overcame losing their main employer - the sugar mill - to become successful coffee growers and how they built a coffee industry where there was none; a skate park and possibly small dirt bike course; amphitheater for arts and entertainment, including local musicians and hula halau; small studio type shops for commercial use on a small scale; a visitor info center focusing on Ka`u.

A Ka`u sugar truck comes past the old sugar mill site
during Plantation Days. Photo by Julia Neal

They also suggested development of an outdoor venue for such events as vintage car and motorcycle shows. They said the old mill site could be a "Place to gather outside of the busier towns," a place for recreation in a more relaxed rural area.

They wrote that "small shops or small business incubators could be developed," and the mill site could provide a place for such enterprises as car repair, solar energy, contracting and other small businesses. A trade school could be located on the land.

The suggestion for the site becoming a park, presented to the commission by Dorothy Silva, also mentioned the spring as a possible back up water source for the community.

Should there be a willing seller of the property the Open Space Commission members will likely visit the property as it plans to prioritize suggestions for acquisitions of property around the island.

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GOV. DAVID IGE VETOED THE TINY HOUSE AND AQUARIUM COLLECTION BILLS ON Tuesday along with 11 more bills on his veto list.

Two of the bills on his veto list, he signed into law. HB 523, Relating to Recycling, allows the state Department of Accounting and General Services to set up recycling at properties it manages. HB 575 Relating to Public Lands allows the state to extend leases of commercial, hotel, resort and industrial state owned properties when lessees make substantial improvements. This was supported by the Hawai`i County administration and County Council along with SB1184, which establishes a Redevelopment District and Fund for Hilo waterfront and HB 1469 which sets procedures for other redevelopment districts.

A bill to allow 500 square feet or smaller homes on ag
land for workers and ag families was vetoed.
Photo from Tiny House Hawai`i

VETO OF TINY HOUSE BILL: Explaining his veto of HB 2, the governor said that it would have authorized the placement of “tiny homes” of 500 square feet or less of living space within the state agriculture district of Hawai‘i County. These “tiny homes” would have been used by farm workers or their immediate families on land currently being used for agricultural production.

According to the rationale of the governor, "Hawai‘i County Zoning Code (HCC Chapter 25) already allows for a farm dwelling as a permitted use of agricultural-zoned lands. By Zoning Code definition, a farm dwelling means a single-family dwelling located on or used in connection with a farm, or if the agricultural activity provides income to the family occupying the dwelling."

The governor's office reports that in 2015 and 2016, a total of 27 additional farm dwellings were approved by the County of Hawai‘i Planning Department. During that period, all applications for farm dwellings were granted. "The administration is committed to working with Mayor Harry Kim and the County of Hawai‘i on addressing the affordable housing issue for farm workers on Hawai‘i Island," says the statement from the governor's office.

VETO OF FISH COLLECTION BILL: Explaining his veto of SB 1240 , Relating to Aquatic Life, the governor explained that the bill would have required the Department of Land and Natural Resources to define “sustainable” and establish a policy for sustainable collection practices through take limits. It also would have prohibited the DLNR from issuing new aquarium fish permits to use fine meshed traps or fine meshed nets and prohibits the transfer of permits after five years.

Gov. Ige said he received thousands of calls and emails regarding the
aquarium fish collection bill before he gave it his veto on Tuesday.
Photo from NOAA

A statement from the governor said that "Since the release of the Intent to Veto List on June 26, this issue has been highlighted across numerous local and national media outlets. The Office of the Governor has received thousands of phone calls and emails from constituents expressing their support for and opposition to this bill. The one thing everyone can agree on is that one of Hawai‘i’s most valuable resources, the coral reef, must be protected. The Department of Land and Natural Resources and Gov. Ige agree that sustainable policies and practices are needed. The governor has no objection to the first part of the bill that requires the DLNR to define 'sustainable' and establish policies for sustainable collection."

Coral reefs, where most aquarium fish are caught in Hawai`i.
Photo from NOAA

According to the governor, the DLNR is committed to "working with all stakeholders to come up with a better solution. Discussions have begun on 'limited entry' aquarium fisheries, expanding Fishery Replenishment Areas (FRAs) to O‘ahu, capping permit numbers, addressing catch limits, and establishing permit fees." Gov. Ige is committed to introducing legislation and/or administrative rules that will "properly address all concerns, and create policy that will establish Hawai‘i as the best managed sustainable nearshore fishery in the world," the statement says.

"Regarding this measure, the governor has concerns that the science does not support the claims made in this bill. In West Hawai‘i, where approximately 80 percent of Hawai‘i’s aquarium catch comes from, FRAs were established to reverse the decline in fish populations. The Division of Aquatic Resources and the DLNR have collected data over 17 years and completed more than 6,700 surveys in this area, and have found that aquarium fish populations are generally stable or increasing. Based on the extensive scientific data from West Hawai‘i, it would be premature to phase out aquarium collecting permits," the governor's statement concludes.

"Furthermore, it must be understood that this bill does not prohibit fish collecting. It simply prohibits the issuance of new permits to use small meshed nets and traps. The meshed nets and traps are an important tool for aquarium fish collectors. There is hope that this will eventually phase out the industry. This would take decades as currently proposed. The worldwide demand for aquarium species could lead to new and more destructive ways of collection," sates Ige.

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Lei Making Demo, Wed, July 12, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Local cultural practitioner Pua O’Mahoney teaches how to make traditional Hawaiian lei with natural materials that include leaves, flowers and more. Free; park entrance fees apply.

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Susan the Silent (Susie Halemano) wants to share a secret with everyone in KDEN's production of
Finian's Rainbow. The show runs through July 23 at KMC's Kilauea Theatre. See below.

NATIVE KOA BURNED, along with ‘ōhi‘a in a quarter acre forest fire Tuesday behind a cabin at Nāmakanipaio Campground in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Park officials are seeking witnesses and report that the fire started behind Cabin 3 shortly before 3 p.m., and was human-caused. A female and several children told firefighters they saw how it started, but left the scene before anyone could get her name and contact information. The fire was quickly doused with water by County of Hawai‘i Engine 19, Volcano volunteer company 19, and National Park Service resources. No structures were burned, although flames came close to Cabin 3. No closures or evacuations were required.

Smoke obscures the koa and ‘ōhi‘a forest at

Nāmakanipaio Campground on Tuesday

afternoon. NPS Photo/Luke Kittle

An investigation is underway. Witnesses and anyone with information about the fire are encouraged to call Park Dispatch at 808-985-6170. Callers may remain anonymous. “With a hot and dry summer upon us, we’re definitely at an increased risk for fire in the park, and across the island,” said Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Fire Management Officer Greg Funderburk. “It’s important to remember that while parts of the island might be getting rainfall, other areas are very dry and quite susceptible to fire,” he said.

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THE VICTIM LEFT A NOTE, Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park revealed yesterday. They identified the 38-year-old man recovered early Sunday morning near the bottom of Kīlauea caldera as Gregory Michael Ure, also known as Leo Michael Adonis, of California. His last known address was La Mesa, CA.

Park officials confirm the finding of a note in the backpack belonging to the victim. Details concerning the note and circumstances of the death will not be publicly discussed until the National Park Service has concluded its investigation and the county pathologist has ruled on the cause of death. Last Saturday, two visitors discovered a backpack on Crater Rim Trail at approximately 7 p.m. Park dispatch was notified, and rangers searched the caldera rim and floor on foot, but were unable to locate its owner. The search was suspended due to unsafe conditions at night, and resumed at dawn on Sun., July 9. Rangers aboard a helicopter found the victim about 250 feet below the caldera rim, in an area that is not currently erupting, around 5:35 a.m. Sunday.

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TROPICAL STORM FERNANDA is headed toward Hawai`i and is predicted to become a major hurricane by Monday evening. Though still too far away for any accurate prediction, Fernanda is the first of this Hurricane season to take aim at the Hawaiian Islands and could enter the Central Pacific in about a week.

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DRUG OVERDOSE DEATHS IN HAWAI`I ARE LOW compared to much of the United States, Hawaiʻi ranks 43rd in the nation, the rank remaining steady over the past six years, even though drug overdose rates continue to rise across the nation.

However, drug overdose remains the leading form of injury-related deaths for Hawaiʻi residents, accounting for 23 percent of all fatal injuries, according to the Hawaiʻi Department of Health’s Emergency Medical Services and Injury Prevention System Branch. While heroin-related overdoses are much less frequent in the state, Hawaiʻi is experiencing an increase in deaths from heroin overdoses, which mirrors the alarming national trend.

The rates include deaths from prescription opioids, and regular use of prescribed opioids can lead to dependence. This has resulted in a national epidemic of overdose incidents and deaths.

A statement on Wednesday from Hawai`i's Gov. Davud Ige says that he and the state Department of Health are taking an aggressive approach to prevent Hawaiʻi from experiencing the same rate of opioid-related overdoses and deaths as other states. “This is a challenge that requires the best minds working together in our islands,” said the governor. “We can stem the tide by taking action now and working collaboratively across multiple state agencies to prevent harm and save the lives of Hawaiʻi’s people.” On Wednesday, he brought together heads of agencies, departments, and key partners from across Hawaiʻi to kick off this coordinated opioid abuse initiative.

Led by the state Department of Health, the group includes representatives of the Department of the Attorney General, Department of Human Services Med-QUEST Division, and Department of Public Safety Narcotics Enforcement Division. The two areas within the Department of Health facilitating this effort with the support of federal grant funds are the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Division and the Emergency Medical Services and Injury Prevention System Branch.

The newly expanded initiative includes a strategic planning session to support a comprehensive statewide plan. The group will build on policy initiatives that align with those recommended by the National Governor's Association to prepare proposals for the 2018 legislative session, said Ige.

So far, the effort in Hawai`i has achieved expanded access to drugs that can prevent opioid-overdoses (known as “opioid antagonists”) to health care professionals, harm reduction organizations, pharmacists, all first responders and any person positioned to prevent an opioid-related drug overdose mortality. Opioid antagonists are prescription medications that help to reverse the toxic effects of opioid over-medication and overdose. Laboratory research and clinical trials have also shown that opioid antagonists enhance the pain-killing capabilities of opioids, such as morphine and oxycodone.

Chloe Gan wins a $2,000
scholarship from AAUW.

Another hallmark is the legislature passing Act 218 to reduce inappropriate prescribing of opioids. It limits the prescribing of schedule II narcotic drugs, including schedule II opioids, except in cases where the patient is certified as terminally ill or when the single-dose packaging exceeds the limit; requires that controlled substances registrants obtain access to the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program as part of the State of Hawai`i controlled substances registration process; allows pharmacists and physicians to appoint staff members who can access PDMP information as a delegate of the physician or pharmacist delegate; broadens access to PDMP information by allowing the Narcotics Enforcement Division Administrator to give access to government regulatory agencies during joint investigations; and requires prescribing health care providers to adopt and maintain policies for informed consent to opioid therapy.

"These early successes and the work that the opioid initiative will do in the coming months will result in a comprehensive, coordinated action plan to aggressively counteract the increased abuse of opioids in Hawaiʻi," said the statement from the governor's office.

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CHLOE GAN, OF KA`U HIGH SCHOOL, was one of three students from West Hawai`i schools to receive a $2000 scholarship from the Kona chapter of the American Association of University

Women to assist with future educational goals. The other two recipients were Neena Charles from Mauka Lani Christian Academy and Komela McAuliffe from Honokaa High School.

Gan, who graduated in 2017, loves science and will study mechanical engineering at the University of Portland. She was at the top of her class, won Best in Engineering/Environmental Science at Hawai`i District Science Fair, earned the Legislator of the Year award in youth and government, is a member of the National Honor Society, a youth mentor, and helped organize a community event that showcased local youth talent.

According to Madalyn McWhite-Lamson, coshair of the AAUW sholarship committee, Gan "is described as one of the most intellectual, sincere, and dedicated students " and also was very involved in social justice issues, participated in 4H, and was captain of the cross country team. Gan hopes to return to Ka'u and help empower youth and to improve the lives of the people around her, said McWhite-Lamson.

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Ihe cast finishes "Great Come-and-Get- It- Day" one of the

numbers in KDEN's production of Finian's Rainbow.

The show continues its run through July 23.

FINIAN'S RAINBOW CONTINUES ITS RUN at Kilaue Military Camp's Kilauea Theater through July 23rd with performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 7a:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 general, $15 for seniors 60 plus and students and $12 for children 12 and under, and are available at Kilauea General Store, Kea’au Natural Foods, and the Most Irresistible Shop in Hilo and at the door. For more information or to make a reservation, contact KDEN at 982-7344 or kden73@aol.com.

Red Cross Volunteer meeting, Thu, July 13, 7 p.m., HOVE Road Maintenance Corp. office. For volunteers and those interested in becoming volunteers. Hannah Uribes, 929-9953

Papa ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, Fri, July 14, 6 – 7:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. This beginning Hawaiian language course continues for eight weeks. $90/$80 VAC members. 967-8222

Recycling at Nā‘ālehu School, Sat, July 15, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Nā‘ālehu School Gym. Redeem your HI-5 sorted by type; receive 5 cents per container and additional 20 cents per pound on all aluminum. Atlas Recycling donates 20 cents per pound on all aluminum redeemed to the school. 939-2413, ext. 230.Hula Performance, Sat, July 15, 10:30 a.m., hula platform near Volcano Art Center in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Kumu hula Kaho‘okele Crabbe with Halauolaokalani. Nā Mea Hula with Loke Kamanu & ‘ohana, 11a.m. – 1 p.m.

Mongolian BBQ, Sat, July 15, 5 – 8 p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp’s Crater Rim Café in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356 for more details.

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Thy Word Ministries was one of the first place winners in the Independence Day Parade last Saturday
in Na`alehu. Photo by Ron Johnson

THE PROPOSED KA`U SUGAR MILL PARK in Pahala has more support in letters provided to the county Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission. Glenn Okumuara, of Pahala, wrote. "The sugar industry is a big part of Hawai`i history. Ka`u sugar was the last mill to close on Hawai`i Island, closing a chapter in the lives of the people in Ka`u, Hawai`i Isalnd, the State of Hawai`i and the nation. Please consider this acquisition."
Gay Polido Scott wrote, "This is my request and stated interest that the Preservation Commission please purchase this land for community use."

Ka`u Auto Repair was voted last Saturday as one of the top two parade
entries in the annual Na`alehu Independence Day Parade
sponsored by O Ka`u Kakou. Photo by Ron Johnson

The 60 plus acres are in foreclosure and are scheduled for a courthouse sale in Hilo on July 28. On the land are remains of the sugar mill and camp housing, as well as several commercial buildings, one of them housing Hawai`i Public Radio and emergency broadcasting.

For the county to purchase it, the owner of the property must be willing to sell it at an appraised price and the county must approve the purchase.

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OPIOD-RELATED HOSPITALIZATIONS AND EMERGENCY ROOM VISITS have more than doubled in the last decade, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard told the U.S. House of Representatives today. She reported that more people are now dying from overdoses than motor vehicle accidents. This opioid epidemic is killing 91 Americans all across this country every single day.

Thy Word Ministry tied for first place in the Independence
Day Parade in Na`alehu last Saturday. Photo by Lee McIntosh

She took on pharmaceutical companies: “For years, companies like Purdue Pharma, which is the maker of the commonly known drug, OxyContin, have profited off the suffering of millions of Americans who are dealing and struggling with opioid addiction. Now Purdue and others are going overseas, targeting foreign populations, using the very same shady marketing tactics, lies, and false advertising that helped them get rich at the expense of the American people.

“This is absolutely unacceptable. We can't just keep wringing our hands about the opioid crisis without actually tackling the cause of it. Purdue and those responsible should be prosecuted for the deaths and lives that have been ruined as a result of their lies."

Ka`u Auto Repair tied for first place in the annual Na`alehu

Independence Day Parade last Saturday. Photo by Lee McIntosh

Gabbard has cosponsored legislation like the STOP OD Act (H.R.664) to help state and local governments raise awareness of the dangers of opioids like fentanyl, oxycodone and heroin, expand educational efforts to prevent opiate abuse and promote treatment and prevention. She also voted to pass a series of bipartisan measures in the 114th Congress to address some of the widespread problems that have caused and perpetuated the national opioid crisis, including the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act of 2016 (S.524) signed into law in July 2016, and has continued to call for drug companies perpetuating the crisis to be held accountable.

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NEW FLOOD INSURANCE MAPS for Ka`u and the rest of the island were presented this week in Hilo at meetings sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Administration, the county and state. The new maps will go into effect an play a role in the cost of flood insurance starting Sept. 29. Department of Land and Natural Resources explained to residents the flood risks of their homes to show them how their area was rated for flood insurance. A FEMA representative said that flood maps change with development and changes in streams and the shoreline.

Local residents check out the FEMA flood insurance maps.
Photo from David Corrigan/Big island Video News

The flood maps can be viewed online at at gis.hawaiinfip.org/fhat. To learn how to view the preliminary maps using the FHAT, click on the tutorial link provided on the Hawai‘i NFIP Website dlnreng.hawaii.gov/nfip/.

Areas that have a one percent chance of flooding every year are considered the highest at risk areaa with the highest insurance rates.

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FINIAN'S RAINBOW CONTINUES at Kilauea Military Camp's Kilauea Theater through July 23rd with performances Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 general, $15 for seniors 60 plus and students and $12 for children 12 and under, and are available at Kilauea General Store, Kea’au Natural Foods, and the Most Irresistible Shop in Hilo and at the door. For more information or to make a reservation, contact KDEN at 982-7344 orkden73@aol.com.

Papa ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, Fri, July 14, 6 – 7:30 p.m., Volcano Art Center in Volcano Village. This beginning Hawaiian language course continues for eight weeks. $90/$80 VAC members. 967-8222

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Ka`u News Briefs Friday, June 23, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Saturday, June 24, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Sunday, July 25, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Monday, June 26, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Tuesday, June 27, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Wednesday, July 28, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Thursday, June 29, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Friday, June 30, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs, Saturday July 1, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Monday, July 3, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Tuesday, July 4, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Wednesday July 5, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Thursday, July 6, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Friday, July 7, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Saturday, July 8, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Sunday, July 9, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Monday, July 10, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Tuesday, July 11, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Ka`u News Briefs Thursday, July 13, 2017