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| A patriotic Christmas scene at Kīlauea Military Camp, where the public is invited to vote on the best decorations. See more on visiting and voting, below. Photo by David Berry |
Today Trump refused to sign legislation passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate to fund the government through a continuing resolution, that left out funding for the wall. Trump said the government would shut down unless he received more than $5 billion to build a wall along the southern U.S. border. Later today, the House passed a bill with $5.7 million for the wall. The Senate votes on it tomorrow.
Schatz tweeted: "Lots of people working without pay over Christmas while he's golfing if he follows through on this tantrum."
Should the government partially shut down, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park may close.
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POACHING OF REEF CREATURES is easier to report on the new hotline 808-NO-POACH. Collecting is prohibited from South Point, up the west Kaʻū Coast through Kona, to Upolo Point in Kohala.
Successful prosecution of a poaching case can result in a reward of up to $5,000 for those who provide the tip. The new program, announced yesterday, is supported by community organizations For the Fishes, Moana ‘Ohana, The Center for Biological Diversity, and West Hawai‘i Humane Society, along with the state Department of Land & Natural Resources.
Mike Nakachi, of Kona-based Moana ‘Ohana, explained, "We are asking for the public's kokua in reporting any suspected illegal reef wildlife collection. We continue to receive reports from concerned residents alleging illegal capture of our fragile and sacred reef animals. All aquarium fish collection off West Hawai‘i is against the law, regardless of gear type or net size."
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Max Phillips, director of Center for Biological Diversity in Hawaiʻi, said, "We must all work together to ensure Hawai‘i's rich marine life are protected from illegal poaching. Court orders and regulatory rulings suspending aquarium collecting is a good start, but those laws are meaningless without proper enforcement."
DLNR Chair Suzanne Case said, "We appreciate the efforts of these organizations that are working tirelessly to support our enforcement of aquarium collection laws, and to ensure only legal and pono fishing practices are used."
Poaching can be documented through the 808-NO-POACH hotline, by calling, by texting, and by sending photos, images, and video of alleged illegal activity. DLNR's Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement also takes tips through its state-wide telephone hotline, 808-643-DLNR(3567), or free application, DLNRTip.
Mike Nakachi, of Kona-based Moana ‘Ohana, explained, "We are asking for the public's kokua in reporting any suspected illegal reef wildlife collection. We continue to receive reports from concerned residents alleging illegal capture of our fragile and sacred reef animals. All aquarium fish collection off West Hawai‘i is against the law, regardless of gear type or net size."
DLNR Chair Suzanne Case said, "We appreciate the efforts of these organizations that are working tirelessly to support our enforcement of aquarium collection laws, and to ensure only legal and pono fishing practices are used."
Poaching can be documented through the 808-NO-POACH hotline, by calling, by texting, and by sending photos, images, and video of alleged illegal activity. DLNR's Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement also takes tips through its state-wide telephone hotline, 808-643-DLNR(3567), or free application, DLNRTip.
For the Fishes states on its website that Hawaiʻi courts deemed aquarium collecting permits illegal until completion of proper environmental review. The organization states, "More than 100,000 animals are still taken and shipped out for commercial gain despite the court orders. Evidence of aquarium trade operations are seen at commercial warehouses, residential garages filled with aquariums, air cargo facilities, dive shops, where scuba tanks are filled, and boat ramps. They are also seen on the water - in vessels, underwater where divers use nets, and in tide pools where collectors grab hermit crabs."
To report suspected illegal taking of reef wildlife, call or text (including images/video): 808-NO-POACH (808-667-6224). Also, call: 808-643-DLNR (808-643-3567).
'To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
A FINE OF $25K FOR DISCHARGING INDUSTRIAL WASTEWATER INTO THE OCEAN was levied yesterday by the state Department of Health Clean Water Branch at Hū Honua Bioenergy. Hū Honua plans to burn eucalyptus from tree farms in Kaʻū and elsewhere, to make steam and create electricity. The biomass plant is located north of Hilo, on the coast at Pepeʻekeo.
A statement from DOH says the Nov. 9 discharge was intentional. However, Hū Honua self-reported it to the state and said it was unauthorized.
Keith Kawaoka, deputy director of DOH Environmental Health Administration, issued a statement Wednesday saying, "Our inspectors have confirmed a worker for Hū Honua Bioenergy opened a valve on its industrial wastewater treatment tank and allowed the contents of the tank to discharge from their facility into the environment. This is a serious violation as discharges without permit authorization are strictly prohibited to protect human and environmental health from exposure to pollutants, which can cause serious and sometimes irreparable harm."
DOH reported the wastewater from Hū Honua testing and flushing its boiler amounted to 3,500 to 32,500 gallons of "fresh water, acidic metal cleaning solution, and residue from descaling of the boiler" to be discharged into the ocean.
At a November public hearing, opponents of the project called for an Environmental Impact Statement or Assessment. DOH has determined that such studies are not required by law, as no public lands or funds are used for the project. Opponents contend the shoreline and nearshore waters are public.
Hū Honua is allowed 20 days to contest the DOH fine and other requirements for it to continue its project. The company has announced it plans to be online in early 2019 to sell 30 megawatts of electricity to Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co. "Hū Honua will deliver clean renewable power to help Hawaiʻi meet its goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045," says the company website. See huhonua.com. See a Hū Honua opposition website at 350 Hawaiʻi.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
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NEW and UPCOMING
A NEW YEAR'S DAY BRUNCH HOSTED BY KĪLAUEA MILITARY CAMP'S CRATER RIM CAFÉ is offered on Tuesday, Jan. 1, from 7 a.m. to noon. The event menu includes: Roast Pork, Chicken Picata, Omelet Station, French Toast, Breakfast Potatoes, Rice, Patties, Bacon, Fresh Fruit, Cheesecake Bar w/Toppings, Brownies, and Beverage. Meal tickets are $17.95 per adult or $9.50 per child between the ages of 6 and 11. Kīlauea Military Camp, open to all patrons and sponsored guests, is located within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Park entrance fees apply. For more, call 967-8356 or 967-8371. See kilaueamilitarycamp.com.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
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First Annual Christmas Program, hosted by the teachers and keiki of Harmony Options Day in Ocean View, welcomes homeschooling families and those interested in homeschooling in the Ka‘ū community. Ocean View Community Center on Friday, Dec. 21, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Music, prizes, refreshments, and "a performance by our keiki!"
Youth Group, Fri., Dec. 21,6:30-8:30pm , Ocean View Community Center
Stewardship at the Summit, Sat., Dec. 22. Meet Paul and Jane Field at 8:45am in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park at Kīlauea Visitor Center. Volunteers help remove invasive, non-native plants species that prevent native plants from growing. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks, and water. Gloves and tools provided. Parental/guardian accompaniment or written consent required. Free; however, park entrance fees apply. No advance registration required. nps.gov/havo
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Birth of Kahuku, Sat., Dec. 22, 9:30-11:30am , Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
Kīlauea Crisis Support Group Meeting, Sat., Dec. 22,10-11am , Ocean View Community Center
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23
‘Ōhi‘a Lehua, Sun, Dec. 23, 9:30-11am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Learn about vital role of ‘ōhi‘a lehua in native Hawaiian forests, and many forms of ‘ōhi‘a tree and its flower on this free, easy, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo
MONDAY, DECEMBER 24
Christmas Eve Service, Mon., Dec. 24, Christmas Carols at 5pm, Service at 6pm, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Aloha hour after service. Bring a dish to share. 939-7000, stjudeshawaii.org
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Candlelight Christmas Eve Service, Mon., Dec. 24, 7pm, Nā‘ālehu Methodist Church. Lessons and Carols service where Christmas story will be told, interspersed with Christmas carols. Everyone is welcome. 929-9949
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25
Christmas Day Buffet, Tue., Dec. 25, 4-7pm, Kīlauea Military Camp's Crater Rim Café, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Entrees: Prime Rib, Roast Turkey w/Stuffing, Holiday Lamb Stew. $28.95/Adult, $15.95/Child (6-11 yrs). KMC open to all patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, 967-8371
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26
Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wed., Dec. 26, 9-11am, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors 60 years & older encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i - referral required from Hawai‘i County Office of Aging at 961-8626 for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org, 329-3910 ext. 925. legalaidhawaii.org
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How to Make Haupia - ‘Ike Hana No‘eau (Experience the Skillful Work), Wed., Dec. 26, 10-2pm, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Made from the pia root (arrowroot) and mixed with coconut milk or cream, then steamed, boiled or baked into a pudding, haupia is a popular and authentic cultural dessert. Free; park entrance fees apply. Co-sponsored by Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27
Craft Class, Thu., Dec. 27, 9:30-10:30am, PARENTS, Inc., Nā‘ālehu. For keiki 2-12 years old and caregivers. Free. 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org
Ka‘ū Community Children's Council, Thu., Dec. 27, 12-1:30pm, Punalu‘u Bake Shop. Monthly meeting provides local forum for all community members to come together as equal partners to discuss and positively affect multiple systems' issues for the benefit of all students, families, and communities. Chad Domingo, text 808-381-2584, domingoc1975@yahoo.com, ccco.k12.hi.us
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Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, Thu., Dec. 27, 4-6pm, Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Free community dinner for all. Additional packaged goods to take home - for those in need. Donations and volunteers encouraged. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org
To report suspected illegal taking of reef wildlife, call or text (including images/video): 808-NO-POACH (808-667-6224). Also, call: 808-643-DLNR (808-643-3567).
'To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
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| Hū Honua bioenergy plant site at Pepeʻekeo, where wastewater was released into the ocean. Photo from 350 Hawaiʻi |
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| Hū Honua processing diagram, from tree farms to electricity. Image from Hu Honua |
Keith Kawaoka, deputy director of DOH Environmental Health Administration, issued a statement Wednesday saying, "Our inspectors have confirmed a worker for Hū Honua Bioenergy opened a valve on its industrial wastewater treatment tank and allowed the contents of the tank to discharge from their facility into the environment. This is a serious violation as discharges without permit authorization are strictly prohibited to protect human and environmental health from exposure to pollutants, which can cause serious and sometimes irreparable harm."
DOH reported the wastewater from Hū Honua testing and flushing its boiler amounted to 3,500 to 32,500 gallons of "fresh water, acidic metal cleaning solution, and residue from descaling of the boiler" to be discharged into the ocean.
At a November public hearing, opponents of the project called for an Environmental Impact Statement or Assessment. DOH has determined that such studies are not required by law, as no public lands or funds are used for the project. Opponents contend the shoreline and nearshore waters are public.
Hū Honua is allowed 20 days to contest the DOH fine and other requirements for it to continue its project. The company has announced it plans to be online in early 2019 to sell 30 megawatts of electricity to Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co. "Hū Honua will deliver clean renewable power to help Hawaiʻi meet its goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045," says the company website. See huhonua.com. See a Hū Honua opposition website at 350 Hawaiʻi.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
NEW BOARD DIRECTORS FOR OCEAN VIEW COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION were elected last night with the counting of ballots. Current President Dave Anderson said, although 137 ballots were sent to members via email and USPS, only 32 were received by the board. Current Secretary Ron Gall told the handful of members attending the meeting: "There are so many good people in Ocean View that you can meet while doing volunteer work here."
Along with Anderson and Gall, Gary Bailey, Tim Chace, Barbara Lewis, and Suzanne Reiter were elected.
Along with Anderson and Gall, Gary Bailey, Tim Chace, Barbara Lewis, and Suzanne Reiter were elected.
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The 2019 Ocean View Community Association's board. Standing, left to right, are Tim Chace, Ron Gall, Gary Bailey, and Dave Anderson. Sitting, left to right, are Suzanne Reiter and Barbara Lewis. Photo by Annie Bosted |
Bailey and Chace will serve their first term, while the other board members are incumbents. Paulette Frerichs stood down as her term on the board has expired.
The annual membership meeting will be Saturday, Jan. 19, start time will be posted at ovcahi.org. The meeting is open to all who would like to attend. Anderson said the 2019 board will meet before then to elect officers.
The board welcomes volunteers, even for a few hours, during the week to perform a wide variety of tasks. Anderson presented a new organizational chart, which he described as a way of getting more members to volunteer for committee positions. Positions that have been filled are: By-Laws and Membership, to be headed by by Eleanor Shannon, and Programs and Activities, to be headed by Karen Powell. Volunteer positions that still need filling include: Finance, Property and Buildings, Nominating, and Administration, as well as support staff for all operations.
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Kalei Namohala, Josiah Barrios, and June Domondon with the Photo from Kaʻū Athletics |
KAʻŪ TROJANS GIRLS BASKETBALL TOOK DOWN KOHALA yesterday, in both JV and Varsity games. Kaʻū hosted the north island teams.
In the JV game, Kaʻū lead every quarter but the third, scoring 8, 8, 2, and 14, to end with 32 points. Kohala scored 2, 6, 7, and 6, to end with 21. Kaohinani Grace was the standout player of the game, scoring 20.
Varsity led every quarter, scoring 15, 12, 14, and 6, reaching 47 points at the end of the game. Kohala scored 4 in the first quarter, 6 in each remaining quarter, reaching 22 points. Mederios-Dancel was a standout player, scoring 17 points, and Heidi Vidal stood out, scoring 12.
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| Ms. Caldwell's class grew hydroponic lettuce, which was sold as Doritos Salad at last night's Girls Basketball game. Photo from Kaʻū Athletics |
ʻO Kaʻū Kākou's Half Court Shot for Cash winner was Josiah Barrios, who won $250 for Kaʻū Athletics, and a gift card for himself.
During the game, hydroponic lettuce, grown by Ms. Caldwell's class, was sold as Doritos Salad.
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See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment. Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com |
Kaʻū High Winter Sports Schedule
Girls Basketball:
Dec. 22, Sat., host JV Christian Liberty, 2pm
Jan. 4, Fri., host Hilo 6pm
Jan. 7, Mon., @Honokaʻa, 6pm
Jan. 9, Wed., @Kamehameha, 6pm
Boys Basketball:
Dec. 22, Sat, host Parker
Dec. 27, Thu., @Kealakehe
Jan. 3, Thu., host Honokaʻa, 6pm
Jan. 5, Sat., @HPA, 6pm
Jan. 8, Tue., host Kamehameha, 6pm
Jan. 11, host Konawaena, 6pm
Wrestling:
Dec. 22, Sat., @Oʻahu
Jan. 5, Sat., @Waiakea
Soccer:
Dec. 22, Sat., host Waiakea
Dec. 29, Sat., @Kona
Jan. 3, Thu., Girls @HPA
Jan. 5, Sat., Boys host Kealakehe
Jan. 7, Mon., @Hilo
Jan. 9, Wed., @Keaʻau
Swimming:
Dec. 29, Sat., @Kamehameha, 10am
Jan. 5, Sat., @KCAC, 10am
NEW and UPCOMINGA NEW YEAR'S DAY BRUNCH HOSTED BY KĪLAUEA MILITARY CAMP'S CRATER RIM CAFÉ is offered on Tuesday, Jan. 1, from 7 a.m. to noon. The event menu includes: Roast Pork, Chicken Picata, Omelet Station, French Toast, Breakfast Potatoes, Rice, Patties, Bacon, Fresh Fruit, Cheesecake Bar w/Toppings, Brownies, and Beverage. Meal tickets are $17.95 per adult or $9.50 per child between the ages of 6 and 11. Kīlauea Military Camp, open to all patrons and sponsored guests, is located within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Park entrance fees apply. For more, call 967-8356 or 967-8371. See kilaueamilitarycamp.com.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Coastal Clean-Up w/Hawai‘i Academy of Arts & Sciences, Fri., Dec. 21, Contact for meet up details. No seats available; BYO-4WD welcome to all current HWF volunteers. Free; donations appreciated. RSVP to kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com or call 769-7629 for more.
Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Coastal Clean-Up w/Hawai‘i Academy of Arts & Sciences, Fri., Dec. 21, Contact for meet up details. No seats available; BYO-4WD welcome to all current HWF volunteers. Free; donations appreciated. RSVP to kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com or call 769-7629 for more.
Youth Group, Fri., Dec. 21,
Stewardship at the Summit, Sat., Dec. 22. Meet Paul and Jane Field at 8:45am in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park at Kīlauea Visitor Center. Volunteers help remove invasive, non-native plants species that prevent native plants from growing. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks, and water. Gloves and tools provided. Parental/guardian accompaniment or written consent required. Free; however, park entrance fees apply. No advance registration required. nps.gov/havo
Kīlauea Crisis Support Group Meeting, Sat., Dec. 22,
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23
‘Ōhi‘a Lehua, Sun, Dec. 23, 9:30-11am, Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Learn about vital role of ‘ōhi‘a lehua in native Hawaiian forests, and many forms of ‘ōhi‘a tree and its flower on this free, easy, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo
MONDAY, DECEMBER 24
Christmas Eve Service, Mon., Dec. 24, Christmas Carols at 5pm, Service at 6pm, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Aloha hour after service. Bring a dish to share. 939-7000, stjudeshawaii.org
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25
Christmas Day Buffet, Tue., Dec. 25, 4-7pm, Kīlauea Military Camp's Crater Rim Café, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Entrees: Prime Rib, Roast Turkey w/Stuffing, Holiday Lamb Stew. $28.95/Adult, $15.95/Child (6-11 yrs). KMC open to all patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, 967-8371
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26
Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wed., Dec. 26, 9-11am, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors 60 years & older encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i - referral required from Hawai‘i County Office of Aging at 961-8626 for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org, 329-3910 ext. 925. legalaidhawaii.org
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27
Craft Class, Thu., Dec. 27, 9:30-10:30am, PARENTS, Inc., Nā‘ālehu. For keiki 2-12 years old and caregivers. Free. 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org
Ka‘ū Community Children's Council, Thu., Dec. 27, 12-1:30pm, Punalu‘u Bake Shop. Monthly meeting provides local forum for all community members to come together as equal partners to discuss and positively affect multiple systems' issues for the benefit of all students, families, and communities. Chad Domingo, text 808-381-2584, domingoc1975@yahoo.com, ccco.k12.hi.us
ONGOING
Kīlauea Drama & Entertainment Network's A Gilbert & Sullivan Christmas Carol runs through Dec. 23, with shows on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30pm, and Sunday at 2:30pm. The show performs at Kīlauea Military Camp Theater inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Tickets are $20 per person, cash or check, available at door. KMC is open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. KDEN, 982-7344
Substitute School Health Assistant Positions are available. Qualifications: CPR and First Aid certifications, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Training begins in 2019. Contact Kristy Loo for more at look@hkkk.k12.hi.us.
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Christmas in the Country and 19th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibition are open at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Christmas in the Country runs thro ugh Wednesday, Dec. 26. Enjoy an abundance of art and aloha as VAC creates a merry scene of an old-fashioned Christmas inside its 1877 historic building. In addition to artwork, find unique holiday offerings of island-inspired gifts, ornaments, and decorations made by Hawai‘i Island artists, including VAC exclusives.
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The Wreath Exhibition is available through Tuesday, Jan. 1. The exhibition presents one-of-a-kind wreaths in a variety of imaginative media, techniques, and styles, from the whimsical to the traditional, with this year's theme of Home for the Holidays - inspired by the four month closure of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
Admission is free; Park entrance fees apply. For more, call 967-8222, or visit volcanoartcenter.org.
Substitute School Health Assistant Positions are available. Qualifications: CPR and First Aid certifications, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Training begins in 2019. Contact Kristy Loo for more at look@hkkk.k12.hi.us.
Admission is free; Park entrance fees apply. For more, call 967-8222, or visit volcanoartcenter.org.
Registration for P&R Boys & Girls, T-Ball/Coach Pitch Baseball League open through Jan. 16, Kahuku Park, H.OV.E. For ages 5-8. Programs run Jan. 22-Apr. 18, game and practice times tba. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/pr-recreation
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