Ka`u News Briefs June 18, 2013

      Carpenter stated in a press release, “In accordance with the DPH Constitution, Article I, regarding membership adopted by the Convention body in May 2006 and remains in effect today, as chair I am committed to fulfilling the resolution put forth by the Convention body to ensure Democrats are elected at the primary stage by their fellow Democrats. In order to achieve this outcome we are required to file this type of lawsuit in the District Court of Hawai`i. Note in particular that emphasis is on achieving “openness” – either through public registration or Party membership.” 

      The press release said the Party seeks the public’s understanding and appreciation of the principles and Constitutional guarantees in conjunction with associational and individual freedoms.

A SUBSIDIARY OF HOUSTON-BASED Par Petroleum has purchased Tesoro Corp., which planned to close its Hawai`i oil refinery after not being able to find a buyer. Tesoro anticipates completing the sale in the third quarter of this year, subject to regulatory approval. The buyer intends to continue Tesoro’s refining, logistics and retail operations.



      “This is encouraging news for Hawai`i’s economy and for the workers at Tesoro,” said Sen. Brian Schatz. “We have been in constant contact with Tesoro Corporation about maintaining fuel security in our state and working hard to ensure that the workers at the refinery keep their jobs. We thank Par Corporation for being willing to invest in a refining operation as a critical component to Hawai`i’s economy. This will help with the availability of jet fuel, diesel fuel and other refined products.” 

      Sen. Mazie K. Hirono released the following statement regarding the purchase:
      “Today’s announcement that Par Petroleum intends to continue the refining, logistics and retail operations of the Kapolei refinery is positive news for Hawai`i. As Hawai`i’s largest refinery, this facility is an important part of Hawai`i’s energy landscape, and this action will help maintain the stability of the state’s petroleum production market. Throughout the past six months, I have kept in close contact with workers and state and federal officials to find a positive resolution to Tesoro’s announcement to sell its Hawai`i operations. I look forward to getting to know Par Petroleum Corp. and their long-term energy delivery plans.”

HAWAI`I COUNTY IS CONDUCTING OPEN RECRUITMENT for the position of Civil Defense Agency administrator. Electronic applications are accepted at jobs.co.hawaii.hi.us through next Tuesday, June 25. Salary ranges from more than $68,000 to more than $93,000 annually. 

      The Civil Defense Agency administrator is responsible for county Civil Defense programs under the direction of the mayor, including the development and maintenance of plans for the operation of government and related agencies in times of emergencies. The administrator also coordinates programs with agencies of federal and state governments.
      Retired Fire Chief Darryl Oliveira has been serving as acting Civil Defense administrator since Jan. 9 and will remain in that role until a permanent administrator is selected. According to a story by Dave Smith, of Big Island Now, Oliveira plans to apply for the position. If Mayor Billy Kenoi “finds someone more qualified, that’s fine,” Oliveira told Smith. “I’m just here to help. I feel very comfortable working with everyone.”

KA`U COMMUNITIES ARE PREPARING for Fourth of July celebrations. 

      Participants are lining up for the early Fourth of July Parade in Na`alehu on Saturday, June 29. Gov. Neil Abercrombie is expected to join in, along with other elected officials including Ka`u’s Council member Brenda Ford, Hawai`i County Mayor Billy Kenoi and Ka`u’s state Rep. Richard Onishi.
      New to the parade this year is the Kama`aina Choo-Choo carrying the Girl Scouts, Lost Tribe Motorcycle Club and the Hillbilly Car Club.
      Others who have signed up include Hawai`i County Band, Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park, pa`u riders, Ka`u Hospital, several churches, the Fire Department and Ka`u Coffee Pageant contestants.
      The parade starts at Na`alehu Elementary School at 11 a.m. Before the parade, free pancake breakfast takes place at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
      Following the parade, `O Ka`u Kakou will sponsor keiki activities at Na`alehu Park with a water slide, bouncy apparatus and climbing wall. Free hot dogs and shave ice will also be distributed at the park. Music and kani ka pila will entertain participants. Seniors can enjoy a free lunch at the Na`alehu Community Center, which will be followed by senior bingo and prizes.
      Assembly of God church also offers free hot dogs, chili and a concert after the parade.
      Businesses, organizations, and individuals who wish to participate or donate can call Debra McIntosh at 929-9872. Two prizes will be awarded for the most creative entry and the most patriotic entry. To be eligible to win, entries must be received by Friday, July 28.

VOLCANO VILLAGES FESTIVITIES TAKE PLACE on Thursday, July 4. The parade starts at 9 a.m. at the post office. To join the parade, contact Jim Mitchell at 253-441-0863 or Sher Glass at 967-8553.