Ka‘u News Briefs, Friday, Dec. 16, 2016

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park has announced its Stewardship at the Summit schedule for January through March.

See story below. Photo from National Park Service

DID HELCO UNFAIRLY CHARGE CUSTOMERS FOR ELECTRICITY IT RECEIVED FOR FREE FROM ORMAT/PUNA GEOTHERMAL? Kaʻū’s County Council member Maile David is asking the state Public Utilities Commission to look into allegations that Hawai‘i Electric Light Co. received free power and sold it to customers. Instead of testifying Wednesday in Kona at the PUC’s public hearing on the proposed HELCO rate increase, where most people opposed the hike, David sent a letter to PUC Chairman Randy Iwase. At the hearing Iwase publicly stated that he received her letter and that David opposed HELCO’S proposed rate increase. Yesterday, David shared her letter with The Kaʻū Calendar. In the letter she writes:

     “With regard to HELCO’s application I respectfully request that no action or decision regarding the above application be taken until the PUC determines the following:

Randy Iwase (left) and the PUC heard testimony on HELCO’s rate hike and

received a letter from County Council member Maile David.

Photo from Big Island Video News

     · Whether Ormat/Puna Geothermal provided HELCO with electricity free of charge in 2009, 2010 or 2011?

     · Whether a docket or report for free electricity was filed with the PUC by HELCO?

     · How much free energy did HELCO receive in 2009, 2010 or 2011?

     · Was any free energy sold to the ratepayers of Hawai‘i County in 2009, 2010 or 2011?”

     David explained in her letter the back story of a case brought by whistle blowers against companies that operate the geothermal power plant in Puna and sell power to HELCO. The case involved a §1603 grant. This grant allows the U.S. Treasury Department to finance developers of renewable energy projects by providing funds in lieu of Investment Tax Credits. The whistle blowers alleged that the Puna geothermal developers abused the program. The whistle blowers filed a complaint.

    David writes: “The above inquiry is the result of my review of a 2014 United States District Court case entitled United States of

Maile David

Photo by Ann Bosted

America ex els. Tina Calilung & Jamie Kell v. Ormat Industries, Ltd., et al. and Puna Geothermal Venture II, L.P., et al. This was a complaint for damages and other relief under the False Claims Act. I understand that the case settled with Ormat paying the U.S. government $5.5 million (without an admission of guilt).”

     David points to Paragraph 272 of the Complaint, which states: “Though Ormat could not sell energy yet, it wanted to obtain a §1603 grant for the 8 MW Expansion. Accordingly, though plant operation was ‘on hold’ and Power Purchase Agreement approval from PUC was still outstanding, Ormat began delivering energy produced by the 8 MW Expansion to HELCO for free. Ormat believed that if the plant was operating and producing energy it could claim December 2011 as the placed-in-service date for the expansion and thereby qualify the 8MW Expansion project for §1603 funds.”

     David writes: “Although the lawsuit has settled, the question remains whether or not HELCO was provided free energy and more importantly, if it was, did the ratepayers of Hawai‘i county receive its fair share of this free energy?”

     David concludes her letter with an appeal: “I request that this commission look further into this matter. For the reasons set forth above, and, the fact that cost of energy for Hawai‘i County ratepayers are already at a high premium.”

     David told The Kaʻū Calendar that she needs answers, saying: “It is a valid question that I felt the PUC should address. If in fact HELCO did receive free electricity, then such benefit should rightfully be passed on or shared with ratepayers of Hawai‘i County – our citizens, local businesses, and state and county agencies.”

     David added that the HELCO rate case public hearing seemed to her to be a good opportunity to raise this question, as HELCO wants the ratepayers of Hawai‘i Island to pay more for energy and she is opposed to their request.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

GRANTS ARE AVAILABLE TO STUDENTS K-12 in Hawaiʻi to support emerging environmental projects from Hawaiʻi’s public, private, and charter schools. Called the Hawaiʻi Youth Sustainability Challenge, the contest urges students to design, prototype, and implement innovative and creative sustainability ideas and projects. Sponsored by Kamehameha Schools, Public Schools of Hawaiʻi Foundation, Harold K.L. Castle Foundation and state Department of Education, the program is administered by the Hawaiʻi Conservation Alliance.

Individual students and teams can apply for mini-grans from the

Hawaiʻi Youth Sustainability Challenge.

Photos from Hawaiʻi Conservation Alliance. 

     The Alliance “encourages fresh projects or ideas that emphasize their environmental passions and motivation, interests in conservation education and desire to create sustainable, localized change,” says a statement announcing the competition. One student can work with a teacher advisor or a group of students can work with a teacher advisor and create an entry for consideration.

   The sustainability project can be an effort to make a change in school or community to support Hawaiʻi’s goal of achieving a sustainable future, demonstrate  environmental passions and and a desire for environmental education as well as motivation to make change.

     Submit the HYSC Mini-Grant Application via the KHF Grant Portal by Jan. 29, 2017 at 11:59 p.m. No applications will be accepted after this date. See more at www.kokuahawaiifoundation.org .

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Volunteer uncovers a native plant that was

chocked by invasive ginger.

Photo from National Park Service

HELPING TO ENSURE THE FUTURE of the Hawaiian rainforest at the summit of Kīlauea volcano is an effort open for volunteers in the Stewardship at the Summit programs at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, January through March 2017. Stewardship at the Summit begins at 9 a.m. and ends at noon. The dates are: Jan. 6, 14, 21 and 27; Feb. 3, 11, 18 and 20 (Presidents Day and fee-free); and March 3, 10, 18, 25 and 31.

     Volunteers have dedicated more than 7,500 hours and restored more than 61 acres of native rainforest within the national park since 2012. Countless Himalayan ginger, faya, Australian tree fern, strawberry guava, and other invasive, non-native plants that threaten the native understory near the summit of Kīlauea volcano have been removed. In their place, once-shaded ‘ōhi‘a trees, ‘ama‘u and hāpu‘u tree ferns have re-emerged, and pa‘iniu, kāwa‘u, and other important native plants are returning to the stewardship plots.

     Volunteers help remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing. Meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center at 8:45 a.m. on any of the above dates. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring a hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools are provided. No advance registration is required, and there is no cost to participate, but park entrance fees apply. Visit the park website for additional planning details: www.nps.gov/havo.

       “Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park has entered its 100th year of stewarding this fragile ecosystem, and we need everyone’s help in making sure the Hawaiian rainforest remains intact beyond the next 100 years,” said volunteer and project leader, Paul Field. “We invite the community and visitors to join us. In addition to giving back to the land, you’ll learn to identify native and invasive plants, how to safely control invasive species, and how to avoid spreading other pest species, including Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death,” he said.

     Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park provides numerous ways for visitors to connect with and appreciate Hawaiian culture, active volcanoes, and native plants and animals. It is a designated World Heritage Site (1987) and International Biosphere Reserve (1980).

Kaʻū will be one of the sites for GoFarm Hawai`i

classes for new farmers. Photo from The Kohala Center.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

NEW AND ASPIRING FARMERS AND RANCHERS on Hawai‘i Island can choose from two comprehensive courses being launched by The Kohala Center in early 2017. Some classes will be held in Kaʻū. In addition to its Beginning Farmer-Rancher Development Program, which has graduated more than 120 students since 2013, The Center will host the state’s largest farmer training program, GoFarm Hawai‘i, for the first time on Hawai‘i Island. More information about both programs is available online at kohalacenter.org/farmertraining.

     The seventh cohort of The Kohala Center’s Beginning Farmer-Rancher Development Program begins Saturday, Feb. 4 in Honokaʻa, with classes held every other Saturday through October from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Classes will meet primarily in Honokaʻa but will rotate between training sites in Hawi, Kailua-Kona, and Kaʻū to encourage participation from multiple regions of Hawai‘i Island.

     The program provides 188 hours of coursework, on-farm demonstrations, workshops, field trips, and online resources covering topics such as soil fertility management, tropical crop production, livestock production, business planning and financing, and agricultural product marketing. Tuition is $250 for the full program and scholarship assistance is available. Students who successfully complete the program will be eligible for assistance in securing farm leases and capital to successfully produce, market, and distribute their crops. The program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the County of Hawai‘i Department of Research and Development.

     GoFarm Hawai‘i @ The Kohala Center will offer students classroom instruction, tours of local farms, and hands-on experience in small-scale farming at The Center’s demonstration farm in Honokaʻa. Sponsored in part by Ulupono Initiative, Kamehameha Schools, and the County of Hawai‘i, the program is divided into three phases starting with an “AgCurious” introductory session, followed by four

Hands on experience in small-scale farming is part of the

GoFarm Hawaiʻi educational program.

Photo from The Kohala Center

     AgXposure site visits. AgXposure participants may then apply to AgSchool, an intensive, hands-on, four-month farmer training program. Applicants interested in GoFarm @ The Kohala Center are encouraged to attend the AgCurious session on Thursday, Jan. 12 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the North Hawai‘i Education and Research Center in Honoka‘a. AgCurious will provide an overview of the GoFarm program and the current state of farming in Hawai‘i. AgCurious and AgXposure sessions are available at no cost, while enrollment in the 13-session AgSchool program is $20 per session. Interested applicants may email Derrick Kiyabu at derrick@gofarmhawaii.org to register and for more information.

     “Our farmer training programs were created with a specific goal in mind: to improve food security in Hawai‘i by training and empowering future generations of local food producers,” said Nicole Milne, director of food and agriculture initiatives at The Kohala Center. “Here in Hawai‘i we import roughly 85 percent of our food, the average age of our local farmers is increasing, and the number of farms in the islands and across the U.S. is declining. Encouraging island residents to consider careers in agriculture and give them the knowledge and support they need to succeed are critical elements in our strategy to reduce Hawai‘i’s dependence on imports and move us toward greater food self-reliance.”

     Although no previous farming experience is required, preference is given to applicants who have taken steps to become agricultural producers but would benefit from a comprehensive curriculum.

See more on The Kohala Center at www.kohalacenter.org.

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Kaʻū ʻOhana Band plays Christmas music tomorrow at

Ocean View Swap Meet at 9:30 a.m.

KAʻŪ OHANA BAND will play Christmas music at 9:30 a.m. at the Ocean View Swap meet tomorrow, Saturday, Dec. 17. The conductor is Steve Moon.

FRIEND-RAISER IS NĀʻĀLEHU ELEMENTARY SCHOOL’S Winter Fest is tomorrow, Saturday. Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “Make New Friends,” declares the poster, which also reports on opportunities to enjoy shave ice, drinks, hot dogs – all for $1. Games are 50 cents. Also featured is a bounce house, raffle, bake sale, splash booth, jail, face painting and information vendors. Winter Fest is sponsored by the Nāʻālehu School Council.

LEARN ABOUT THE JAPANESE DETAINMENT CAMP at Kīlauea Military Camp, during a walk tomorrow, Saturday, Dec. 17 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Staff leads the way. Free. Park entrance fees apply. Meet at the flagpole.

KMC when it was a detention camp for Japanese during

WWII. Take a walk to learn the history this Saturday.

Image from KMC

REP. RICHARD CREAGAN’S OCEAN VIEW FORUM will be held at Ocean View Community Center next Monday, Dec. 19 at 6 p.m. Creagan represents District 5 in the Hawaiʻi House of Representatives and chairs the Committee on Agriculture. District 5 includes Honuʻapo to Nāʻālehu, to Ocean View, to Capt. Cook, Kealakekua and part of Kailua-Kona.

KEIKI FUN DAY AND OPEN HOUSE will be held at Pāhala Community Center on Tuesday, Dec. 20 fron 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., sponsored by Tutu & Me.

OCEAN VIEW’S OWN MUSICAL CONDUCTOR Michael Cripps will lead the Chamber Orchestra of Kona in a Christmas Concert, Tuesday, Dec. 20 at Sheraton ballroom at 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at www.chamberorchestraofkona.com and at the door.

VOTE FOR THE BEST DECORATED Kilauea Military Camp through the holidays.

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY is ongoing through the holidays at Volcano Art Center in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Free; park entrance fees apply.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM ANDKAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

1. 

Ka`u News Briefs, Thursday, Dec. 15, 2016

Waikapuna, with 2,200 acres, is the target of community fundraising to preserve the four miles of
coast and the uplands. It is located off Hwy 11 between Honuʻapo and Nāʻālehu and extends to the
coast south of Kaunamano toward Ka Lae - South Point. Photo by Andrew Hara, courtesy of Ka`u Mahi
Photo from Department of Land & Natural Resources Legacy Land Conservation Program

THE KEANU ʻOHANA OF KAʻŪ has released a statement to the Trust for Public Land, the state Legacy Land Conservation Commission and others in support of the preservation of 2,200 acres at Waikapuna. The family members, who have historic ties to this Kaʻū Coast property between Honuʻapo and Ka Lae - South Point, say they “strongly support the acquisition of Waikapuna and its surrounding lands by the Ala Kahakai Trail Association and the Trust for Public Land in an effort to preserve and protect this natural and cultural treasure.”

Keoni Fox of the Keanu ʻOhana.
Photo by Ann Bosted

     This week the Legacy Land Conservation Commission agreed to partial funding for purchase of the Waikapuna property. Legacy Land has contributed in the past to the purchase of 785 acres at Kawa, the recent county acquisition of 3,128 Kahuku Coast acres makai of Ocean View and three acres of Caves above  Kipuka Kanohina lava tube system in Ocean View.
     According to the Keanu ʻOhana statement on Waikapuna, "As native descendants with genealogical ties to the ahupua’a of Kahilipali and its neighbors, we believe that the purchase of these lands will allow for perpetual protection of this wahi pana or storied place of our ancestors."
     "Waikapuna was once a thriving coastal community and its freshwater springs and abundant marine resources supported families who would exchange fish with relatives who farmed kalo (taro) and other goods in the fertile mauka communities of Nāʻālehu and Waiʻohinu."
   Family representative Keoni Fox stated that in an interview with Mary Kawena Pukui in 1960, his great-grandfather’s brother, Uncle Herbert Kuʻumi Kin In, described this unique relationship between extended ‘ohana in the Kaʻū uplands and lowlands: “Ina he nui kau ukana e lawe mai ana, aha ho’i no ʻoe me ka ukana. If you come down with a big bundle (from the mountains), you are going home with a big bundle (from the sea).”
      Fox wrote that "My great-grandfather, Alfred Kalama Kahakua and his brother spoke fondly of Waikapuna and other wahi pana of Kaʻū. Both were interviewed many times and their words often express sadness about the loss of our culture, our language, our birds, plants and sacred places. It is for this reason that our family became deeply concerned after the closure of Kaʻū Agribusiness and the sale of its properties.

Waikapuna land encircled in red has received approval for partial funding from
Legacy Land Commission. More funds are sought to complete the purchase in
order to preserve the four miles of Ka`u Coast. 

    “For the last 20 years, many properties such as Waikapuna have been purchased by land speculators who propose new developments, threaten the rural nature and open view planes which are greatly cherished in Kaʻū. Our family actively supports initiatives to protect natural and cultural resources along the 80 miles of Kaʻū coastline from the impacts of development and urban sprawl.
     “Throughout history, the people of Kaʻū have practiced a lifestyle of subsistence. For many generations, the Keanu ‘Ohana has fished and gathered at Waikapuna, sometimes walking for miles along mauka-makai trails and coastal trails of the ala kahakai. We continue these traditions today. As children, it was here where we learned how to pick limu and ‘opihi. We were taught to ask permission before we gather and to take only what was needed. These were important lessons in resource protection, sustainability and humility.
   "When camping on Waikapuna’s sandy shores, we marvel at the many bright stars and constellations clearly visible at night from a coastline far from city lights. Together, we would wander through the village in awe of the expansive walled remains of where our ancestors lived, worked and played. For me, Waikapuna has always felt like home and it is this deep spiritual connection with my kupuna which I hope to perpetuate for the next generation.  

Legacy Land Conservation projects on Hawaiʻi Island include four in the
southern districts with 785 acres at Kawa (6 and 9), the 3,128 acres of
Kahuku Coaastal lands recently acquired (31) and three acres of Caves (4).
Map from Legacy Land Conservation Program

 “For the Keanu ‘Ohana, we believe that this acquisition will honor our kupuna, their history, their values and their legacy by protecting the entire cultural and natural landscape. There are few opportunities today where such large scale preservation of pristine lands is even possible. The purchase will help to safeguard our family’s many sacred sites including the iwi kupuna.”
   The statement also considers the wildlife, saying the “effort will also allow for the protection of Waikapuna’s dryland forest and extensive native coastal plant habitat which includes seabird nesting areas along the sea cliffs. Furthermore, the scenic shores of Waikapuna are known as a place where fish and other marine life spawn and its protected tide pools serve as nature’s nursery.
     "Waikapuna presents an opportunity for research and education on many levels. As native descendants, we hope to continue our traditional cultural and educational practices on the land and in its waters. Our family is committed to assisting the Ala Kahakai Trail Association and other community organizations with the stewardship of the property. We are very excited about this opportunity to protect Waikapuna,” the Keanu statement concludes.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

PROPOSED RATE HIKES BY HELCO drew mostly opposition testimony this week at  Hilo and Kona hearings before the Public Utilities Commission this week. East Kaʻū state Senator Russell Ruderman said he was testifying as a private citizen, rather than representing his senatorial post. He called the Hawai‘i Electric Light Co. rate hike a “civil rights issue,” and a “humanitarian issue.” He testified that the rate hikes fall on the poorest of the citizenry to the benefit of “one of the wealthiest corporations.” The argument pointed to the ability of the more prosperous businesses and families having capital to buy solar panels and other energy cost saving technology to get away from electric company bills. The trend leaves a larger burden of paying for electric company expenses to the less wealthy HELCO consumers. See more in tomorrow's Kaʻū News Briefs.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

THE FILIPINO VETERANS OF WORLD WAR II Congressional Gold Medal Act was signed into law yesterday by President Barack Obama. Sen. Mazie Hirono and Rep. Tulsi Gabbard introduced the legislation into Congress.

     “The Filipino veterans of World War II overcame many challenges in their fight for compensation, family reunification, and verification of wartime service. By signing our bill into law, President Obama recognized these veterans’ courage and perseverance, both during the war and in the decades of battles for benefits that followed,” said Hirono. “This day is only possible thanks to the commitment of veterans, families, and advocates in Hawaiʻi and across the country. While this recognition is long overdue, the Congressional Gold Medal is a fitting tribute to the sacrifice that these veterans made for our country.”

More than 200,000 Filipino and Filipino-American solders served
during WWII. About 18,000 are still living.

  Said Gabbard, “History has been made as President Obama signs into law our bill to honor the more than 200,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers that served our country during World War II. These loyal and courageous soldiers suffered, fought, with many giving up their lives alongside their American counterparts throughout the war. Though less than 18,000 of our Filipino WWII veterans are still alive today, this recognition is a testament to each and every one of our Filipino WWII veterans who earned and deserve their place amongst our greatest generation. To our Filipino veterans, their families, and all who worked so hard to make today a reality, maraming salamat sa inyong lahat.”

     Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus issued a statement applauding the legislation. 

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar

THE CONGRESSIONAL ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN CAUCUS recently wrote to president-elect Donald Trump. Chair Judy Chu asks for a meeting to discuss “pertinent issues that affect the Asian American and Pacific Islander community.” The letter states that, “According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Asian Americans are now the fastest growing racial population in the country and account for over 19 million Americans. In addition, more immigrants now come from the Asia-Pacific region than from anywhere else in the world.”

     She explains that the “caucus is currently composed of 50 Members of Congress, including Members of Asian or Pacific Islander descent, representatives from the U.S. territories, and Members who represent large AAPI constituencies. Together, CAPAC works to establish legislation and policies that address the needs of the AAPI community and works to advance the civil and constitutional rights of all Americans.

   “CAPAC has been proud to work with prior Republican and Democratic Administrations on significant accomplishments that are vital to both our community and our country, and we look forward to sitting down with you before the end of this year to discuss these priorities. Thank you for your time and consideration, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.”

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

New roof going onto the old courthouse yesterday
in Na`alehu. Photo by Cindy Cutts

THE OLD COURTHOUSE BUILDING, IN Nāʻālehu, where the community can observe and participate in County Council meetings by video feed, is receiving new roofing. The state-owned building is used by the county and various other government agencies.

THE PIG SILENT AUCTION for pork grown at Kaʻū High School continues through Dec. 20. Staring bid is $120 per pig and each pig is 70 to 100 lbs. in weight. The three highest bids give the bidders each a pig. Place bids at the office in Kaʻū High School, said teacher Michael Moe who is helping the students who raised the pigs at the campus. Raising the pigs along with hydroponic lettuce, macadamia and other foods are part of the rebounding of agriculture at Kaʻū High School.

FAMILY READING NIGHT is tonight, Thursday, Dec. 15 at 5 p.m. at Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033.

TODAY IS THE DEADLINE FOR THE DIRECTORY, to sign up for listings and advertising for businesses, community groups, churches and agencies. The annual business and community resource guide is sponsored by Kaʻū Chamber of Commerce and produced by The Kaʻū Calendar. It includes photography and art by Kaʻū residents, a calendar of events, listings and feature stories including winners of the recent Beauty of Kaʻū art show, sponsored by the Chamber. The Directory raises scholarship money for students from Kaʻū throughout their higher education in trades, college and university studies. Printed each January, 7,500 copies of The Directory are distributed throughout Kaʻū and Volcano. To sign up, contact geneveve.fyvie@gmail.com .

KA`U OHANA BAND will play Christmas music at 9:30 a.m. at the Ocean View Swap meet this Saturday, Dec. 17. The conductor is Steve Moon.

FRIEND-RAISER IS NĀʻĀLEHU ELEMENTARY SCHOOL’S Winter Fest theme for this Saturday. Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “Make New Friends,” declares the poster, which also reports on opportunities to enjoy shave ice, drinks, hot dogs – all for $1. Games are 50 cents. Also featured is a bounce house, raffle, bake sale, splash booth, jail, face painting and information vendors. Winter Fest is sponsored by the Nāʻālehu School Council.

LEARN ABOUT THE JAPANESE DETAINMENT CAMP at Kilauea Military Camp,
during a walk this Saturday, Dec. 17 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park Staff leads the way. Free. Park entrance fees apply. Meet at the flagpole.

REP. RICHARD CREAGAN’S OCEAN VIEW FORUM will be held at Ocean View Community Center next Monday, Dec. 19 at 6 p.m. Creagan represents District 5 in the Hawaiʻi House of Representatives and chairs the Committee on Agriculture. District 5 includes Honuʻapo to Nāʻālehu, to Ocean View, to Capt. Cook, Kealakekua and part of Kailua-Kona.

KEIKI FUN DAY AND OPEN HOUSE will be held at Pāhala Community Center on Tuesday, Dec. 20 fron 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., sponsored by Tutu & Me.

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY is ongoing through the holidays at Volcano Art Center in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Free; park entrance fees apply.

OCEAN VIEW'S OWN MUSICAL CONDUCTOR Michael Cripps will lead the Chamber Orchestra of Kona in a Christmas Concert, Tuesday, Dec. 20 at Sheraton ballroom at 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at www.chamberorchestraofkona.com and at the door.

VOTE FOR THE BEST DECORATED Kilauea Military Camp through the holidays.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See www.kaucalendar.com

Ka`u News Briefs, Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2016

Nature’s lighting created a Hawaiian Christmas season halo over pine trees at
 Discovery Harbour in Kaʻū yesterday evening.
Photo by Peter Anderson

WAIKAPUNA PRESERVATION came one step closer to reality yesterday when the Legacy Land Commission of the state Department of Land & Natural Resources ranked it number one in all the Hawaiian Islands for land acquisition funding. If Legacy Lands contributions and additional funding from other sources allows for the purchase, the 2,200 acres would be held by the Ala Kahakai Trail Association with a conservation easement provided to the county. The county, Trust for Public Land and many others are helping to conserve Waikapuna.
     The effort is community driven in partnership, said Ala Kahakai National Trail Superintendent Aric Arakaki, who made a presentation.

Waikapuna is one of three major properties in Kaʻū owned by Resource Land
Holdings. Waikapuna won a top ranking for funding for preservation
at the Legacy Land Commission meeting yesterday in Honolulu.

The community organizations that would manage the property have “interest in trail and adjacent cultural and natural landscapes protection, preservation and perpetuation of traditional uses and lifetsyles.”
     Many public, private and community organizations are involved, “dedicated to cultural perpetuation, environmental conservation, agricultural self reliance and the provision of sustainable livelihood opportunities for the people of Kaʻū,” said Arakaki.
    The Ala Kahakai National Trail runs through Waikapuna. The land is known for the remains of a Hawaiian fishing village and many other cultural sites and wildlife.
     In addition to Legacy Land funding, money could also come, in part, from the “Two Percent” fund from county property tax revenues.
     Waikapuna is owned by Resource Land Holdings, of Colorado, which also owns the slope above Honuʻapo and Kaʻū Coffee farmer lands at Pear Tree and Moaʻula.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

RUSSIAN INTERFERENCE IN THE 2016 ELECTION?  U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono – a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence – released a statement yesterday, expressing her support for an independent, bipartisan, Congressional inquiry into Russian interference in the 2016 nationawide election and raised six questions for the review process.
     “The Intelligence Community’s assessment that Russia intended to interfere in the 2016 U.S. election is deeply disturbing,” said Hirono. “Last month I joined my colleagues on the Senate Intelligence Committee in writing a letter to urge President Obama to de-classify information about Russian interference. The American people deserve to know as much as possible about Russia’s attacks on our democratic institutions. This is something he can and should do quickly,” said Hirono.

Sen. Mazie Hirono suports inquiry into whether
Russia interfered with the U.S. Election.
Photo from Global Policy Solutions

    “President Obama recently asked the Intelligence Community to provide an assessment before he leaves office. This is an important and positive step. I also support an independent, bipartisan, Congressional inquiry into this matter. This review should focus on answering, among others, the following core questions:
    “To what extent were computer systems at U.S. national party committees compromised?
    “To what extent was information stolen from those computer systems disclosed?
    “Was information leaked from both political party organizations equally – and if not, why not?
    “Did staff members of the presidential campaigns have any contact with Russian officials or Wikileaks during the campaign?
    “To what degree are Russian president Vladimir Putin or other high-ranking officials personally involved in directing these Russian activities?
    “How do we prevent Russia from interfering in future U.S. elections?”
     Last month, Hirono sent a letter to Obama calling on him to declassify any and all intelligence pertaining to Russian interference in the 2016 election.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar.

COFFEE BERRY BORER, MACADAMIA FELTED COCCID, RAPHID 'ŌHIA DEATH and other pests, which pose major threats to Kaʻū agriculture and native forests, are the target of funding announced yesterday by U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. She said Hawaiʻi will receive $3.1 million to fight invasive species like coffee berry borer, Rapid 'Ōhia Death, the coconut rhinoceros beetle, and fruit flies. 

     The money, allocated from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, in accordance with Section 10007 of the 2014 Farm Bill, is part of 513 projects supported nationwide that aim to prevent the introduction or spread of plant pests and diseases that threaten U.S. agriculture and the environment, as well as ensure the availability of a healthy supply of clean plant stock.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (center) met with Kaʻū Coffee farmers
John Ah San, Gloria Camba, Efren Abellera and
Kiki Matsui at Kaʻū Coffee Mill in August. Photo by Julia Neal

     “In Hawaiʻi, invasive species like the coffee berry borer, fruit fly, and macadamia felted coccid have cost our farmers millions, and put hundreds of farms, thousands of local workers, and our agriculture industry at great risk,” said Gabbard. “We need to provide more support to our farmers who contribute so much to our community and our economy. This funding will provide Hawaiʻi with critical resources to combat these invasive pests.”
     Ray Carruthers, Specialist at the University of Hawaiʻi College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, said, “The University of Hawaiʻi is very pleased to hear that a new project has been funded through USDA-APHIS on the management of the coffee berry borer in Hawaiʻi and Puerto Rico. The main thrust of this effect will be to coordinate control efforts with on-going Federal, State and local projects on CBB management, along with the additional development of new insect biological control technologies. We feel that developing, testing and the eventual use of insect parasitoids will be a key for long-term sustainable management of the CBB in both Hawaiʻi and Puerto Rico.” Puerto Rican coffee farmers face many of the same pests as Kaʻū Coffee farmers.

          Gabbard introduced the Areawide Integrated Pest Management (AIPM) Act (H.R.3893) and the Macadamia Tree Health Initiative (H.R.6249) in the 114th Congress. In August, she conducted an agriculture tour on Hawaiʻi Island where she met with local agriculture professionals and researchers in Kaʻū and other districts to talk about about invasive species in Hawaiʻi.

The first high school sports team to use the new Kaʻū District Gym are
Wahine Trojans who play basketball. They marched last weekend
in the Pāhala Christmas Parade. Photo by Julia Neal

CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT MAKING for adults is today, Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 1 p.m. at Kahuku County Park. Ages 18 and older. 929-9913.

MINI GINGERBREAD HOUSE MAKING for keiki, grades K-8,  is today, Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 1 p.m. at Pāhala Community Center. 928-3012.

FAMILY READING NIGHT is tomorrow, Thursday, Dec. 15 at 5 p.m. at Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033.

TOMORROW IS THE DEADLINE FOR THE DIRECTORY, to sign up for listings and advertising for businesses, community groups, churches and agencies. The annual business and community resource guide is sponsored by Kaʻū Chamber of Commerce and produced by The Kaʻū Calendar. It includes photography and art by Kaʻū residents, a calendar of events, listings and feature stories including winners of the recent Beauty of Kaʻū art show, sponsored by the Chamber. The Directory raises scholarship money for students from Kaʻū throughout their higher education in trades, college and university studies. Printed each January, 7,500 copies of The Directory are distributed throughout Kaʻū and Volcano. To sign up, contact geneveve.fyvie@gmail.com .

Pahala Filipino Community Association participates each year
in the Pahala Christmas Parade. Photo by Julia Neal

FRIEND-RAISER IS NĀʻĀLEHU ELEMENTARY SCHOOL’S Winter Fest theme for this Saturday. Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “Make New Friends,” declares the poster, which also reports on opportunities to enjoy shave ice, drinks, hot dogs – all for $1. Games are 50 cents. Also featured is a bounce house, raffle, bake sale, splash booth, jail, face painting and information vendors. Winter Fest is sponsored by the Nāʻālehu School Council.

REP. RICHARD CREAGAN’S OCEAN VIEW FORUM will be held at Ocean View Community Center next Monday, Dec. 19 at 6 p.m. Creagan represents District 5 in the Hawaiʻi House of Representatives and chairs the Committee on Agriculture. District 5 includes Honuʻapo to Nāʻālehu, to Ocean View, to Capt. Cook, Kealakekua and part of Kailua-Kona.

CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY is ongoing through the holidays at Volcano Art Center in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Free; park entrance fees apply.

VOTE FOR THE BEST DECORATED Kilauea Military Camp cottage through the holidays.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND       KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

See www.kaucalendar.com