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| Sen. Dru Kanuha, one of the recipients of Hawai'i Legislator of the Year from Hawai'i Coffee Association, worked for years to pass the truth in labeling bill for coffee that passed the Hawai'i Legislature and is on Gov. Josh Green's desk for his signature. Photo from HCA |
A TRUTH IN LABELING BILL FOR KAʻŪ, KONA AND OTHER HAWAIIAN COFFEE AWAITS THE SIGNATURE OF GOV. JOSH GREEN. House Bill 2298 CD1 made it through the Hawai'i Legislature last week and it is expected that some coffee blenders will lobby the governor to veto it. The bill mandates that beginning July 1, 2027, any coffee labeled or advertised with a Hawaiʻi geographic origin must consist of at least 51 percent coffee by weight from that geographic region.
Until then, the existing rule requires 10 percent. That means that Kaʻū Coffee, chocolate covered beans and other products can be labeled as coming from Kaʻū when 90 percent of the coffee is from other regions, or even from another country. The new law, introduced in the Hawai'i Legislature in many forms for more than three decades, "aims to protect Hawaiʻi's origin products, combat deceptive labeling, and ensure that products that bear regional names contain at least a majority of product from that region," says a statement from the Hawai'i Senate. It also aims to ensure farmers receive prices they deserve and that money stays in the local economy.
State House of Representatives member Nicole E. Lowen, who introduced the measure, said that coffee labeled as coming from a coffee region in Hawai'i should be 100 percent from that region, "but given that this is the first progress made on this in more than 30 years, it’s a huge win."
On Jan. 18, Hawai'i Department of Agriculture submitted to the Hawai'i Legislature a Final Report on the Economic Study on Changes in Coffee Labeling Law. The report showed that an increase in the minimum amount of coffee from 10 percent to either 51 percent or 100 percent would be advantageous for local farmers, with a higher increase providing the most benefit. It also projected that the new law would result in a price increase while seeing minimal impact on quantities grown or sold.
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| Rep. Jeanne Kapela said the new law for truth in coffee labeling will support economic growth. Photo from Kapela |
House of Representative member Jeanne Kapela, who represents Kaʻū and Kona Coffee farmers, said that for too long, makers of blended coffee products have used the regional name and reputation for profit at the expense of farmers. "This law is a step forward in doing the right thing for Hawaiʻi's farmers and supporting their economic growth.”
Kapela grew up in a coffee farming family and became Miss Kona Coffee, which launched her to become Miss Hawai'i in the Miss America pageant.
Senator Dru Kanuha, who also represents Kaʻū and Kona Coffee regions, said the new law is "a pivotal advancement in our ongoing commitment to safeguarding the integrity of Hawaiʻi’s cherished agricultural industries. By requiring a majority percentage of coffee from the specified geographic region in labeled products, we’re not only protecting our farmers’ livelihoods but also ensuring that consumers receive authentic, high-quality coffee synonymous with our beloved regions like Kona and Kaʻū. This legislation reflects our dedication to fostering a sustainable and transparent agricultural sector, one that honors our traditions while promoting economic prosperity for generations to come. I look forward to continuing the work ahead to further strengthen and preserve the rich heritage of Hawaiʻi’s coffee industry for all."
Sen. Tim Richards, who is vice chair of the Agriculture & Environment Committee and member of the Commerce & Consumer Protection Committee, said, "This session, the Legislature was able to pass out a bill that ultimately supports our coffee farmers and in reality, the whole coffee industry in the State of Hawai‘i. By increasing the required percentage of Hawai‘i regional coffee to 51 percent for the use of geographic monograms, we are raising standards, enhancing transparency in labeling, and will ultimately advance the coffee industry over time. Mahalo to the coffee processors and farmers who worked together to find middle ground."
Sen. Tim Richards, who is vice chair of the Agriculture & Environment Committee and member of the Commerce & Consumer Protection Committee, said, "This session, the Legislature was able to pass out a bill that ultimately supports our coffee farmers and in reality, the whole coffee industry in the State of Hawai‘i. By increasing the required percentage of Hawai‘i regional coffee to 51 percent for the use of geographic monograms, we are raising standards, enhancing transparency in labeling, and will ultimately advance the coffee industry over time. Mahalo to the coffee processors and farmers who worked together to find middle ground."
A separate bill for truth in labeling for macadamia also passed. See a story on it in upcoming news briefs.
"A TREMENDOUS SEASON FOR KAʻŪ TROJANS BASEBALL," is the report from
Assistant Coach Josh Crook. "The varsity baseball team had a winning season for the first time in a long time. They made it to the BIIF championship for the first time since 2011."
Manager Rolland Alcoran said, "I am ecstatic about how this season went; after so many years of losing seasons, this was great. And I look forward to the upcoming seasons."
Crook said, "The Ka'u community owes a lot of thanks to Alcoran, who brought back the baseball program." Alcoran said, "There is so much talent in this community that someone had to start it back up for the kids."
Seniors Ocean Sesson and Joe Buyuan gave it all they had in the infield. Buyuan was shutting them down defensively and Sesson was like a wild man all over the field making plays and stopping balls. Seniors Jaestin Karasuda, TJ Faafia, and Dominic Dacalio in the outfield made every play they could to keep the Trojans in the game.
Sophomore Devin Alpin had a great game defensively at first base. Sophomore Riley Koch pitched a great second game and did his job on the rubber, along with Freshman catcher Ian Beck who was behind
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THE PASSING OF A SEASONED KAʻŪ SPORTS COACH ROBERT BARBA, 82, has drawn a story from Kaʻū High alumnus Tim Wright, Class of '77. He writes: The Kaʻū community and sports enthusiasts mourn the recent passing of Robert Barba.
ZENTANGLE® RIXTY VARIATIONS WORKSHOP WITH IRIS THORNTON is Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Volcano Arts Center Niaulani Campus in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Zentangle is an easy-to-learn fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Rixty is a simple and dynamic tangle that is odd and familiar at the same time. This class is open to all levels, no Zentangle or art experience necessary. Students are encouraged to bring snacks/beverages to share. Cost is $35/$30 VAC members plus a $15 supply and facility fee. Register at https://volcanoartcenter.org/classes-and-workshops/registration-workshops-classes/.
HULA KAHIKO UNDER THE DIRECTION OF KUMU KINI KAʻAWA is Saturday, May 11 from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at Volcano Arts Center in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. This performance is part of a year-round series sponsored by the Volcano Art Center. Presented authentically in an outdoor setting, rain or shine without electronic amplification. Audience members are encouraged to bring sun/rain gear and sitting mats. For more information call (808) 967-7565.
SOUTH HAWAI`I SYMPHONY PRESENTS: MOTHERS' APPRECIATION CONCERT. Saturday, May 11 from 2 p.m. at Discovery Harbour Community Center, 94-1604 Makali`i St, Nāʻālehu. With classical pieces by Mozart and Shubert and popular music from movies such as Star Wars, Ben Hur, Harry Potter, E.T. and more. Farley Sangels will conduct 15-piece orchestra. Free event. Donations welcome.
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JAZZ IN THE FOREST: "TAKE A GIANT STEP OUTSIDE YOUR MIND – A HISTORY OF JAZZ GUITAR MUSIC" is Saturday, May 11 from 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. at Volcano Arts Center Niaulani Campus in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Featuring internationally known and respected guitarist and vocalist Benny Yutake, along with JP and the Jazztones featuring JP Thoma on saxophones and clarinet, Joey Carroll on vocals, acoustic as well as electric bass, and Owen Matsui on percussion. Tickets are $25 for VAC members and $30 for non-members. Purchase tickets at www.volcanoartcenter.org, or at VAC's Administration Office in Volcano Village.
VOLCANO WINERY'S MOTHER'S DAY MARKET is Sunday, May 12 from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. at Volcano Winery, 35 Piʻi Mauna Drive, Volcano. Featuring wine, crafts, food and more. More information at https://m.facebook.com/volcanowinery/.
MOTHER'S DAY CONCERT: FEATURING THE VOLCANO CHAMBER PLAYERS is Sunday, May 12 from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Volcano Art Center's Dietrich Varez Hall in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. The concert is a special tribute to mothers. Beverages and pupu will be available for purchase. Tickets available at https://volcanoartcenter.org/classes-and-workshops/purchase-tickets-to-vac-events/.
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To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See upcoming events, print edition and archive. Support this news service with advertising at kaunews.com.
7,500 copies the mail and on stands.
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| Participation in Little League helps build the future for Trojan baseball, say the coaches. Photo by Josh Crook |
Assistant Coach Josh Crook. "The varsity baseball team had a winning season for the first time in a long time. They made it to the BIIF championship for the first time since 2011."
Manager Rolland Alcoran said, "I am ecstatic about how this season went; after so many years of losing seasons, this was great. And I look forward to the upcoming seasons."
Crook said, "The Ka'u community owes a lot of thanks to Alcoran, who brought back the baseball program." Alcoran said, "There is so much talent in this community that someone had to start it back up for the kids."
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| Trojans took the count deep in baseball. Photo by Josh Crook |
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| Trojans made BIIF playoffs for the first time since 2011. Photo by Josh Crook |
Crook noted the year started with the JV team and ended with Varsity in playoffs. Also Ka'u Little League president, Crrok said, "I am now seeing the kids that I had coached in tee ball come up to the high school level. The feeder programs are now starting to show, and that should help the program tremendously. It takes a lot of community support to succeed in this endeavor and a lot of money, volunteers, hard work, and heart to make all this work. I wish more of the community would come to support these guys as they compete at this level. These guys need to feel they are loved and encouraged by the community." Ka'u Trojans played a three-game BIIF series with the Konaweana Wildcats. The first was in Waimea, where Trojans lost 10-0. The second ended in 8-1, Trojans losing.
The losses didn't come from lack of effort, Alcoran said. "The boys need to leave it on the field. These boys wanted to beat those guys and were willing to do whatever it took,"Seniors Ocean Sesson and Joe Buyuan gave it all they had in the infield. Buyuan was shutting them down defensively and Sesson was like a wild man all over the field making plays and stopping balls. Seniors Jaestin Karasuda, TJ Faafia, and Dominic Dacalio in the outfield made every play they could to keep the Trojans in the game.
Sophomore Devin Alpin had a great game defensively at first base. Sophomore Riley Koch pitched a great second game and did his job on the rubber, along with Freshman catcher Ian Beck who was behind
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| Trojans earned a spot in BIIF playoffs. Photo by Josh Crook |
the plate for both games. Sophomore Caleb Crook played shortstop during the second game and kept his team engaged by stopping every ball hit to him. Freshman Eli Crook got his chance in the second game, finishing off the Wildcats game in the top of the 7th.
"Offensively, it doesn't look good on paper, but the boys put up a fight at the plate, taking the counts deep," said Crook. Beck had the Trojan's only RBI with a base hit to right center, driving in Koch, who reached base on a hit by pitch, and stole 2nd and 3rd. Both Karasuda and Eli Crook walked. Sophomore Obten Boaz pinch ran but got thrown out at 2nd trying to steal. Crook said, "Hopefully, more guys will come out next year for JV and continue into the Varsity season. I love this small-town, underdog, scrapper team; it fits my style. To me, it's not about being a superstar as the world sees it but as individuals working hard and being a team player, win or lose. I'd take any kid who wants to play and give it their best; I was truly blessed to be part of this team this year."
Coach Jeremy VanArkel said, "I'm proud of the hard work these young men put in for the entire season. While we did not experience the desired results in our last two games, the guys should be proud of making it to the playoffs due to their hard work and dedication."
The coaches expressed a huge thanks parents who provided food for every home game and supported this program. "Thank you for your support this season from the coaching staff Manager Rolland Alcoran, and coaches Jeremy VanArkel, Terry Cox, and Josh Crook. Aloha! The Ka'u Trojans Ended the season with a record of 5-5. Losing to 3 teams in their division and losing to 2 teams in Division 1."
"Offensively, it doesn't look good on paper, but the boys put up a fight at the plate, taking the counts deep," said Crook. Beck had the Trojan's only RBI with a base hit to right center, driving in Koch, who reached base on a hit by pitch, and stole 2nd and 3rd. Both Karasuda and Eli Crook walked. Sophomore Obten Boaz pinch ran but got thrown out at 2nd trying to steal. Crook said, "Hopefully, more guys will come out next year for JV and continue into the Varsity season. I love this small-town, underdog, scrapper team; it fits my style. To me, it's not about being a superstar as the world sees it but as individuals working hard and being a team player, win or lose. I'd take any kid who wants to play and give it their best; I was truly blessed to be part of this team this year."
Coach Jeremy VanArkel said, "I'm proud of the hard work these young men put in for the entire season. While we did not experience the desired results in our last two games, the guys should be proud of making it to the playoffs due to their hard work and dedication."
The coaches expressed a huge thanks parents who provided food for every home game and supported this program. "Thank you for your support this season from the coaching staff Manager Rolland Alcoran, and coaches Jeremy VanArkel, Terry Cox, and Josh Crook. Aloha! The Ka'u Trojans Ended the season with a record of 5-5. Losing to 3 teams in their division and losing to 2 teams in Division 1."
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See upcoming events, print edition and archive. Support this news service with advertising at kaunews.com.
7,500 copies the mail and on stands.
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| In 1979, Coach Barba revitalized the Kaʻū High football program by temporarily suspending the varsity team and leading the junior varsity squad to the BIIF championship. |
Upon his return to Pahala after his service in the Army, Coach Barba couldn't bear to watch a Kaʻū High football game; the desire to suit up and return to the field consumed him. By the early 1970s, Coach Barba reignited his passion, first as a Pop Warner and flag football coach and eventually as a coach for Kaʻū High School by the late 70's. What an exceptional coach he became. He instilled in his young Trojans the skill of grinding out yardage with swift running plays and precise short passes.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, retired Hilo High Coach Leroy Simms expressed his admiration for Coach Barba's unique football wishbone offense and stout defense and said he eagerly sought to learn from him. Despite Coach Simms' persistent efforts, Coach Barba kept his offensive strategies closely guarded, adding an air of mystery to his coaching style that continues to captivate and inspire.
Playfully teasing Coach Simms, Coach Barba declared, "It remains a secret!" One person Coach Barba shared his wishbone offense with was a player on Barba's 1976-77 football team, Kaʻū Quarterback Catalino Alcordo, his first cousin. "Coach Bobby had an advanced mind for his time; he came up with the best plays and knew how to dismantle other teams' offense; if there's one thing I can take away from his mentorship, it is that he told me if you wanted to be great you have to go above and beyond your peers."
Alcordo said as he reminisced about his years under Barba's wing from age nine, playing Pop Warner
In a heartfelt Facebook post, retired Hilo High Coach Leroy Simms expressed his admiration for Coach Barba's unique football wishbone offense and stout defense and said he eagerly sought to learn from him. Despite Coach Simms' persistent efforts, Coach Barba kept his offensive strategies closely guarded, adding an air of mystery to his coaching style that continues to captivate and inspire.
Playfully teasing Coach Simms, Coach Barba declared, "It remains a secret!" One person Coach Barba shared his wishbone offense with was a player on Barba's 1976-77 football team, Kaʻū Quarterback Catalino Alcordo, his first cousin. "Coach Bobby had an advanced mind for his time; he came up with the best plays and knew how to dismantle other teams' offense; if there's one thing I can take away from his mentorship, it is that he told me if you wanted to be great you have to go above and beyond your peers."
Alcordo said as he reminisced about his years under Barba's wing from age nine, playing Pop Warner
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| Coach Bobby Barba tapes boxer Catalino Alcordo's arm with boxer Danny Pua. |
football and boxing at age nine, playing Pop Warner football and boxing.
In 1979, Coach Barba revitalized the Kaʻū High football program by temporarily suspending the varsity team and leading the junior varsity squad to the BIIF championship.
Coach Barba dedicated 34 years as a loading machine operator and welder for the former Kaʻū Sugar Company while mentoring countless youths in the community. Recognizing his extensive coaching career spanning multiple sports, Coach Barba was inducted into The Big Island Sports Hall of Fame as its 90th member a few years ago, a testament to his unwavering dedication and profound impact on those he coached and mentored. His teachings extended beyond the sports arena, instilling essential physical and mental conditioning lessons that prepared his students for both sports and life's challenges.
Coach Barba's legacy lives on through the legion of grateful Kaʻū High School Trojans, each a testament to his enduring influence as a coach and mentor. His impact on the Kaʻū community was profound, and his memory will forever be cherished. A memorial to honor Coach Barba's life will be scheduled for a future date.
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Barba was Pop Warner and flag football coach and eventually as a coach for Kaʻū High School by the late 70's. This is his 1976-1977 team. |
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See upcoming events, print edition and archive. Support this news service with advertising at kaunews.com.
7,500 copies the mail and on stands.
A SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT WARNING OF POSSIBLE SEVERE WEATHER ACROSS THE ISLANDS was issued Wednesday afternoon by NOAA National Weather Service. The statement says, "An unusually strong upper level disturbance is expected to approach
the islands later Friday into Saturday, bringing the possibiLity of
very active weather to portions of the Aloha State. The latest
guidance indicates a possibility for severe thunderstorms, which
could produce damaging winds and large hail, as well as the
possibility for localized intense rainfall and flash flooding.
The details of this event, including timing, locations most at risk,
and intensity, are still uncertain. We will continue to monitor this
potential. Listen for later statements, as well as possible watches
and warnings, as this event becomes more clear."
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See upcoming events, print edition and archive. Support this news service with advertising at kaunews.com.
7,500 copies the mail and on stands.
HOME HERBALIST WORKSHOP WITH HEATHER PENFIELD is Saturday May 11 from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. at Volcano Arts Center Niaulani Campus in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Learn germ boosting powers of plants & herbs and discover how to use them, learn the art of making effective remedies at home. Watch how products are made from start to finish. Includes: class handout with recipes and samples. Class fee is $60/$55 for VAC members plus a $20 supply fee. Register at https://volcanoartcenter.org/classes-and-workshops/registration-workshops-classes/.
ZENTANGLE® RIXTY VARIATIONS WORKSHOP WITH IRIS THORNTON is Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Volcano Arts Center Niaulani Campus in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Zentangle is an easy-to-learn fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Rixty is a simple and dynamic tangle that is odd and familiar at the same time. This class is open to all levels, no Zentangle or art experience necessary. Students are encouraged to bring snacks/beverages to share. Cost is $35/$30 VAC members plus a $15 supply and facility fee. Register at https://volcanoartcenter.org/classes-and-workshops/registration-workshops-classes/.
HULA KAHIKO UNDER THE DIRECTION OF KUMU KINI KAʻAWA is Saturday, May 11 from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at Volcano Arts Center in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. This performance is part of a year-round series sponsored by the Volcano Art Center. Presented authentically in an outdoor setting, rain or shine without electronic amplification. Audience members are encouraged to bring sun/rain gear and sitting mats. For more information call (808) 967-7565.
SOUTH HAWAI`I SYMPHONY PRESENTS: MOTHERS' APPRECIATION CONCERT. Saturday, May 11 from 2 p.m. at Discovery Harbour Community Center, 94-1604 Makali`i St, Nāʻālehu. With classical pieces by Mozart and Shubert and popular music from movies such as Star Wars, Ben Hur, Harry Potter, E.T. and more. Farley Sangels will conduct 15-piece orchestra. Free event. Donations welcome.
JAZZ IN THE FOREST: "TAKE A GIANT STEP OUTSIDE YOUR MIND – A HISTORY OF JAZZ GUITAR MUSIC" is Saturday, May 11 from 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. at Volcano Arts Center Niaulani Campus in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Featuring internationally known and respected guitarist and vocalist Benny Yutake, along with JP and the Jazztones featuring JP Thoma on saxophones and clarinet, Joey Carroll on vocals, acoustic as well as electric bass, and Owen Matsui on percussion. Tickets are $25 for VAC members and $30 for non-members. Purchase tickets at www.volcanoartcenter.org, or at VAC's Administration Office in Volcano Village.
VOLCANO WINERY'S MOTHER'S DAY MARKET is Sunday, May 12 from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. at Volcano Winery, 35 Piʻi Mauna Drive, Volcano. Featuring wine, crafts, food and more. More information at https://m.facebook.com/volcanowinery/.
MOTHER'S DAY CONCERT: FEATURING THE VOLCANO CHAMBER PLAYERS is Sunday, May 12 from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Volcano Art Center's Dietrich Varez Hall in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. The concert is a special tribute to mothers. Beverages and pupu will be available for purchase. Tickets available at https://volcanoartcenter.org/classes-and-workshops/purchase-tickets-to-vac-events/.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See upcoming events, print edition and archive. Support this news service with advertising at kaunews.com.
7,500 copies the mail and on stands.
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