The Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs, Hawaiʻi Island

Thursday, May 23, 2024

Kaʻū News Briefs May 23, 2024

Kaʻū Coffee Festival Recipe Contest Seeks Entries
Kaʻū Coffee Mill'e festival recipe contest is taking entries. Call 808-928-0550 for the required registration to enter into the pupu, entre and dessert categories. Entries must include Kaʻū Coffee in the recipes and be at Kaʻū Coffee Mill at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 1. No entry fees charged. Pre-registration required. The public is welcome to observe. Photo by Julia Neal

INFORMATION TECH IS CRITICAL IN SUPPORTING, MONITORING AND STUDYING one of the most active volcanic regions in the world at USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, writes HVO IT Specialist Thomas-Jon Hoomanawanui in this week's Volcano Watch. The Observatory's mission includes research, providing scientific data to government agencies, and educating the public about volcanic hazards. Hoomananwaui describes the IT role at HVO as adapting to ever-changing demands of scientific efforts and evolving federal regulations. Hoomanawanui writes:

A USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory IT specialist at a data center is pictured
imagining the benefits of programming code to the observation of volcanic phenomena.
USGS image

One of the primary duties of IT personnel at HVO is supporting existing and emerging volcano monitoring and science goals. The observatory uses a variety of instruments to collect data on volcanic activity—including seismometers, gas analyzers, ground deformation sensors, and cameras. These data are then analyzed by scientists to understand the behavior of the volcanoes and forecast potential future activity.
HVO IT personnel work behind the screens, so-to-speak, leveraging computing and network assets to

process and manage sizable amounts of data, ensuring that it can be accessed quickly and is stored securely. As the observatory’s needs evolve, so too does their response.
Additionally, HVO’s IT personnel are tasked with meeting evolving demands of federal regulations regarding security and integrity of systems. The observatory must adhere to strict guidelines for protecting sensitive information, maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of its mission-critical systems. This requires a robust IT infrastructure that meets or exceeds regulatory requirements and a team that can withstand and respond to an array of potential challenges and issues.
HVO uses localized computing resources due to the disparate nature of instrument deployments and the remote location of the observatory. The volcanoes in its purview are spread across a wide geographic area, making it challenging to establish reliable communication links between instruments, the observatory, and the central data processing facilities. Furthermore, the remote locations of most instruments make internet-facing links economically infeasible or impossible—and in turn, renders cloud-based options impractical for many processing and analysis goals.

In order to overcome the challenges of distributed data gathering, we compute closer to the data source. This allows for local storage and analysis of data, minimizing the risk of external service outages affecting HVO’s mission. Efforts by HVO IT personnel to make these systems highly available reduce the risk of data loss or corruption during eruptions or other anomalous events. HVO’s infrastructure includes high-performance servers, storage systems, and networking equipment that are designed to operate reliably in a remote location with limited access to external support.
Future-proofing is another essential consideration for HVO's IT infrastructure. The observatory must ensure that its systems can adapt to new technologies and changing requirements while minimizing costs. To this end, HVO invests in training programs for its IT personnel and judiciously upgrades existing hardware and software systems. HVO IT personnel have developed custom software solutions to manage data collection and analysis, reducing reliance on costly commercial products. Similarly, custom solutions have been developed to meet emerging regulatory requirements. These solutions have also been made available to benefit other USGS Observatories, Science Centers, and Offices, increasing the value provided via public funds.
The next time that you are on the HVO website to check the location of an earthquake, view a webcam image, or see how the ground is deforming, you can appreciate the high-quality IT infrastructure and exceptional personnel that are indispensable in supporting HVO’s mission. By maintaining reliable and secure systems for managing vast amounts of data, meeting regulatory requirements, ensuring local computing capabilities, and future-proofing on limited budgets, HVO can continue to provide timely scientific information about volcanic eruptions and other natural processes that shape the region’s landscape.
Volcano Activity Updates

The volcano is not erupting. Recent rains brought rainbows. NPS photo by Janice Wei

Kīlauea is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert level is ADVISORY. Unrest that began on April 27 continues intermittently beneath the upper East Rift Zone and the summit caldera south of Halemaʻumaʻu. There were less than 100 events most days over the past week except May 17-18, during which there were about 500 earthquakes. Most magnitudes remain smaller than 2 and depths remain concentrated between 2-4 km (1.2-3.1 miles) beneath the surface. Tiltmeters near Sand Hill and Uēkahuna bluff continued to record inflationary trends. Kīlauea's summit region is pressurized, and changes could occur quickly moving forward. See the Information Statement published on May 2 for background information: https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/hans-public/notice/DOI-USGS-HVO-2024-05-03T07:42:02+00:00.

Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert Level is at NORMAL. Webcams show no signs of activity on Mauna Loa. Summit seismicity has remained at low levels over the past month. Ground deformation indicates continuing slow inflation as magma replenishes the reservoir system following the 2022 eruption. SO2 emission rates are at background levels.
Two earthquakes were reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week: a M3.4 earthquake 10 km (6 mi) NNE of Pāhala at 8 km (5 mi) depth on May 22 at 7:33 a.m. HST and a M3.2 earthquake 33 km (20 mi) SSW of Pa‘auilo at 23 km (14 mi) depth on May 21 at 4:37 a.m. HST.
HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.
Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

To read comments, add y o ur own, and l ike thi s story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See upcoming events, print edition and archive at kaunews.com. Support this news service with advertising at kaunews.com. 7,500 copies in the mail and on stands.

"SERVING OUR COMMUNITY, PROTECTION OUR LAND" is the slogan of National Park Service Law Enforcement agency within the U.S. Department of the Interior. The agency is recruiting with training and positions available in Hawai'i, including Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. There is also the opportunity to be stationed around the country.

A National Park Service statement says, "Are you looking for a job opportunity to protect the country's most precious resources and the people who visit them?
"National Park Service law enforcement rangers, special agents, and United States Park Police are stationed around the country and work to fulfill the National Park Service mission by protecting the natural and cultural resources in parks and by keeping people safe.
The National Park Service is looking for its next generation of law enforcement."

To learn more about the upcoming application period, visit go.NPS.gov/lawenforcement.
#NPSCareers

HONOR PUBLIC SERVANTS: HE MEA NUI 'OE is the new web page to encourage the public and county employees to nominate County of Hawaiʻi employees for their exemplary service. This initiative from Mayor Mitch Roth aims to recognize and celebrate the outstanding work and exceptional customer service provided by Hawaiʻi County's dedicated county workforce.
He mea nui ʻoe webpage offers an easy-to-use platform for submitting nominations. By clicking or scanning the QR code on the site, individuals can access the nomination form to highlight the good work and commendable service of county employees.

"We believe it is important to acknowledge and celebrate the efforts of our county employees who go above and beyond in their service to our community," said the Mayor. "Our employees are the backbone of our county, and their dedication and hard work deserve to be recognized."
Nominations are open to all county employees, regardless of whether they provide direct service to the public or support their colleagues internally. Roth encourages everyone, from county employees to members of the public, to take a moment to nominate those who have made a significant impact through their exemplary service.
"We are excited to see the community and our county employees come together to celebrate the amazing contributions of our workforce," added the Mayor. "Every nomination is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our employees, and we look forward to recognizing and honoring their outstanding service."

For more information about the He mea nui ʻoe initiative and to submit a nomination, visit https://www.hawaiicounty.gov/our-county/our-county-our-kuleana/employee-complimenthawaiicounty .gov.

To read comments, add y o ur own, and l ike thi s story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See upcoming events, print edition and archive at kaunews.com. Support this news service with advertising

Hydrologist Kevin Kodama

at kaunews.com. 7,500 copies in the mail and on stands.

RECENT RAINS HAVE PUT OFF THE DRY SEASON FOR HAWAI'I THIS YEAR. Nevertheless, it is expected to be drier than normal, according to National Weather Service's senior hydrologist for these islands. The dry season began May 1 and runs through Sept. 30, but started with heavy rains. Hydrologist Kevin Kodama announced this week that La Nina conditions are expected this summer, with Pacific equatorial waters registering lower than normal surface temperatures and causing lower expectations for tropical storms and hurricanes. May through September is the dry season and below-average dry season precipitation is typical for the summer months of a La Nina onset year, said Kodama.
He noted that this year's dry season totals will be skewed mainly because of the recent rainfall, which will also delay any severe drought. The interior of the island is already experiencing severe drought, according to Kodama.

Malama Kai Foundation's Reef Talk on Friday, May 30 will be live streamed on
YouTube channel@malamakai. This is a free event, but donations are always welcome.
Contact Kater Hiney, Malama Kai Foundation, Reef Talks Coordinator, for more information
at kateralisha@gmail.com,

Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Kaʻū News Briefs May 22, 2024

The largest number of testifiers to date at a Kaʻū Community Development Plan Action Committee led to a long evening and a vote to hold a second meeting on whether to recommend pro or con regarding the Punalu'u development proposal before the Windward Planning Commission. A water bottling plant proposed for Pāhala and fire mitigation for Green Sands and Mark Twain will also be discussed. Photo by Julia Neal

THE PUNALU'U DEVELOPMENT ISSUE DREW THE HIGHEST ATTENDANCE TO DATE for any Kaʻū Community Development Action Committee meeting. During the Wednesday meeting at Herkes Kaʻū District Gym multi-purpose room, the Committee listened to dozens of testifiers for more than two hours. Almost all opposed the development and many encouraged the Committee to send along the testifiers' views and a negative recommendation to the Windward Planning Commission, which is tasked with approving or disapproving a Special Management Area permit for the project to go forward.

Action Committee Chair Jason Masters said that the Action Committee would vote on whether to make a recommendation to send to the Windward Planning Commission.

At the end of the evening, with a vote yet to be taken on Punalu'u and more items on the agenda, the Action Committee voted to hold a future meeting to further discuss the topics and to vote. Other agenda items are a proposed water bottling plant at Pāhala and the need for an escape route, additional water availability and other mitigations for Green Sands and Mark Twain neighborhood fire risks.

The Punalu'u proposal includes some 225 new accommodations, a wellness center, restoration of the Punalu'u Golf Course and Aspen Center, all of them away from the coast, plus restaurants and other commercial activities near Punalu'u beach.

The Special Management Area includes all of the developer's land at Punalu'u makai of Hwy 11. The SMA calls for special review and consideration for proposals valued at more than $500,000.

Testifier Nohea Ka'awa said that money has been committed to buy the Punalu'u property for the community instead of a resort, and that the question is whether the owner of the property is a willing seller. She asked the Action Committee to submit a negative recommendation for the development plan and pointed to a petition with 15,000 signatures against the project, saying that number could double. She

Jason Masters is chair of Kaʻū Community Development Plan Action Committee.
Photo by Julia Neal

said that Black Sand Beach, LLC's design for Punalu'u development is inconsistent with the Kaʻū Community Development Plan.

Regarding a contested case hearing, recently approved by the Windward Planning Commission to take the issue into a court-like proceeding, she said that the mediation process starts this Thursday. Two proposals for a contested case hearing, one from the Center for Biological Diversity and the other from 'Iewe Hanau o Ka 'Āina were approved by the Windward Planning Commission during a public hearing on Monday, May 6. See http://kaunewsbriefs.blogspot.com/2024_05_06_archive.html.

Naomi Dancel testified that she is 22 years of age and opposes the development. "My kupuna taught me to fight for what is right, not what is wrong." She said, "The 'aina took care of us." She contended that developers would "use us" for their restaurants, hotels and condominiums. Shr predicted a "hoard of traffic," and eventually a four-lane highway, along with tripling of Kaʻū's population. "Kaʻū will no longer be Kaʻū."

A number of testifiers said they rejected the idea of a resort bringing in low-paying jobs to clean rooms, toilets and to mow lawns, and even for people who want those job, others from afar would come here to work for less money, eventually pushing Kaʻū people out of that kind of employment. There was much mention of sustainability, growing food instead of tourism and the fact that Kaʻū people choose to live without more urban conveniences to enjoy the country life of fishing, hunting and gathering. Amery Silva said people come here for the quiet and beauty, and that Kaʻū people are stepping up to defend the place. "We are going to stay here and you guys going to come and go."

Kawelle Silva Kamae said that five generations of her 'ohana were at the meeting to oppose the resort. She called Punalu'u the family's backyard and home, pleading for "our future be put first, before developers."

Mike Silva talked about feeding families off land and see - goats, pigs, fish, ophi and crab. He talked bout the rights to go mauka and makai to hunt. He said resources should be shared. It's "not all about the money." For locals supporting the development, he said, "You're selling out your heritage. You guys taking aloha from us. Keep Kaʻū Kaʻū." He said it's time to "draw the line." See more in upcoming Kaʻū News Briefs.

Prodincio Fuerte said he feared that Hawaiian graves would be disturbed by resort development. He also pointed to a large pond at the Ninole part of Punalu'u that he and other locals enjoyed before the sugar company filled it with debris from their building the golf course to create the Punalu'u resort. He said he hopes the pond and stream can be restored.

See more in future Kaʻū News Briefs.

STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL ANNE LOPEZ: $916 MILLION FROM PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANIES WON BY HAWAI'I in a settlement from a lawsuit regarding "unfair and deceptive practices for failing to disclose the efficacy and safety profile of the drug Plavix." She said in her statement on Tuesday that Bristol-Myers Squibb Company and three U.S.-based subsidiaries of French pharmaceutical company Sanofi violated the state of Hawai‘i’s laws.

Gov Josh Green said, “Once actually received by the state general fund, I anticipate that this award will provide greater health care services to the people of Hawai‘i. The state has many needs and these funds will help us improve delivery of expanded health care to our residentsl” said Governor Josh Green, M.D.
Plavix is an oral antiplatelet medication (a form of blood thinner) in tablet form and is a “prodrug.” Unlike most other medications, which are active when ingested, a prodrug is activated by enzymes in the patient’s liver.

Following a trial, First Circuit Court Judge James Ashford found that from the launch of Plavix in 1998, the defendant pharmaceutical companies knew “that there was a risk that about thirty percent of patients might have a diminished response to Plavix,” particularly in members of non-Caucasian races, “but they did not update their label.” Judge Ashford concluded that the defendants’ “unfair acts or practices were deliberate and pervasive, and they slowed and negatively affected the development of science related to Plavix for over a decade,” and “[b]y suppressing research, Defendants created an environment where Hawaiʻi prescribing physicians practiced for more than a decade without the necessary information needed to evaluate the serious limitations of this heart medication.”
Judge Ashford found that the defendants “deliberately turned a blind eye toward the diminished response problem because of Defendants’ concern that addressing that problem might adversely affect Plavix sales and Defendants’ profits.” In enforcing Hawaiʻi consumer protection statute, the court

concluded that Hawaiʻi had a heightened interest in this case because “the omission of warning information raises a serious risk of harm to all consumers, but a particularly high risk to patients of East Asian and Pacific Island descent, who represent a significant portion of Hawaiʻi’s population.”
The Court in its order awarded the state $458,006,000 from Bristol-Myers Squibb Company and $458,006,000 from the three Sanofi subsidiaries, for a total of $916,012,000.
“This case was originally filed in 2014 by Attorney General David Louie, and I applaud him for his foresight and courage in pursuing this matter,” said Attorney General Anne Lopez. “As Judge Ashford found following a trial, these pharmaceutical defendants acted in bad faith and marketed a product that could potentially have devastating effects on Hawaiʻi patients, when they knew that the medicine would lack efficacy for a substantial portion of the population. The Department of the Attorney General stands for the right of people of Hawaiʻi to be informed of the facts before choosing a path to take

with respect to their own medical care.”
“After over 10 years, two trials, and a split Hawaiʻi Supreme Court decision, it is a great day for Hawaiʻi consumers,” said Special Deputy Attorney General Rick Fried, of the Honolulu law firm Cronin, Fried, Sekiya, Kekina & Fairbanks, AAL, ALC. “Plavix must be, unlike aspirin, activated by the liver and a high number of Asian and Pacific Islanders have a liver that does not activate Plavix. The drug companies knew this from the time the drug was first sold in 1998, and they hid this information until the Food and Drug Administration required a black box warning in 2010. This drug is used to treat prior heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease. If the drug is not metabolized it is effectively providing no protection. The black box warning remains to this day.”

The case is State of Hawaiʻi ex. rel. Anne E. Lopez, Attorney General v. Briston-Myers Squibb Company et al., Civil No. 1CC141000708. A copy of the Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, and Order can be found here.

YOU'RE A GOOD MAN CHARLIE BROWN is the summer musical announced by Kilauea Drama &

Entertainment Netowrk, with auditions Tuesday and Wednesday May 28 ad 29.
You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown is based on the comic strip PEANUTS by Charles M Schultz and will be presented July 19th – August 4.
Auditions will be May 28 and 29 at 6:30 pm at Kilauea Military Camp's Koa Room. People auditioning should prepare a song that best show their musical capability, and should dress comfortably to move around on the stage. There will be readings from the script as well.
Due to the ongoing work in KDEN's home theater at KMC, the show will be performed at three locations, from July 19 – 21 at KMC's Koa Room, July 26 – 28 at Ocean View Community Center and August 2 – 4 at Hilo Church of the Nazarene. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. For more information contact Suzi Bondat (808) 982-7344 or email kden73@aol.com

To read comments, add y o ur own, and l ike thi s story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See upcoming events, print edition and archive at kaunews.com. Support this news service with advertising at kaunews.com. 7,500 copies the mail and on stands.

Walkstars-Walking for Fitness group gets in shape in Pāhala.

THE FREE WALKSTARS-WALKING FOR FITNESS PROGRAM drew 21 area seniors to Pāhala in March through May. Nonprofit Vivawell.org sponsored the nine-session program in partnership with the Pahala Senior Center and County of Hawai'i Kaʻū District Gym.
The Walkstars Program boosts knowledge and skills to develop a regular walking habit with the most health benefits. Participants learned how to set individual goals to add more walking time, walking

Seniors walk towards 7,000 steps a day.

frequency and spend less time sitting. The seniors learned that the most health benefits of walking come from adding intensity their walks with increased speed, interval training, using walking sticks to activate upper body muscles, walking inclines (hills, steps), and walking with wrist and ankle weights.
Adults are encouraged to get 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week, about 20 minutes a day, at least 7,000 steps a day, and take a break from sitting every 1-2 hours. Walkstars participants used walking logs and pedometers to track their daily steps. The Pāhala seniors group set a collective goal to walk enough steps to circle Hawai'i Island, 222 miles. Over the course of 12 weeks the participants walked together in the District Gym for 35 minutes once a week and continued recording their walks on their own during the week. When the program ended, the group had exceeded their goal by walking 241 miles.
Each Walkstars session included warm up stretches, a walking workout with motivating music, and

Dolly Kailiawa with her walking sticks.

health education with group discussions. Education topics included walking safety, staying hydrated, avoiding muscle soreness and injury, and walking for a healthy weight. Participants practiced good walking posture, effective breathing, and various ways to measure their walking intensity at weekly sessions. Lively group discussions touched on ways to overcome physical, environmental, social, and mindset barriers to developing a regular walking habit.
Participant feedback highlighted their enjoyment of walking with others and socializing in an active community. At the start of the Walking for Fitness Program, the seniors were walking an average of 8,700 steps a week. By the end of the program participants more than doubled their weekly steps and were walking an average of 17,700 steps a week. Many seniors commented that they felt great after each session and that feeling was their biggest motivation to continue a regular walking habit.
Vivawell is a Hawai'i Island-based 501c3 nonprofit health promotion organization dedicated to preventing chronic health conditions with community programs, research, and media products focused on nutrition, exercise, stress management, social connection, and health-supporting environments. The Walkstars-Walking for Fitness Program has been offered in Pāhala, Pahoa and Hilo since 2023 with grant funding from the Hawai'i Community Foundation. Learn more about Vivawell's community programs at www.vivawell.org.

Lauhala weaving this Friday at
Volcano Art Center Gallery

ALOHA FRIDAY AT VAC GALLERY: LAUHALA WEAVING WITH KUUIPO KALAHIKI-MORALES is Friday May 24 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. on porch of Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Visitors and kama'aina alike are invited to experience a free, hands-on workshop. Free cultural events are part of VAC's Cultural Connections Initiative supported in part by Hawaiʻi State Grant In Aid (GIA) Wai Wai Program. Park fees apply.

COMMUNITY STEWARDSHIP: KA ʻOHANA O HONUʻAPO LOKO IʻA WORKDAY is Saturday, May 25 from 9 a.m. - noon. Families and individuals welcome. Work day includes introduction, talk story, waiver signing, clean-up, pot-luck style lunch. BYO-lunch, snacks, water bottles, protective clothing. Water and juice provided. RSVP and more information at kaohanaohonuapo@gmail.com.

DIETRICH VAREZ EXHIBITION through Sunday May 26 at Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

Kaʻū News Briefs May 21, 2024

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach is the location for Junior Lifeguard training, with four sessions this summer. It is also one of the
agenda items on the Ka'u Community Development Plan Action Committee meeting to be held Wednesday at 5 p.m. at Herkes Kaʻū District Gym multipurpose room. The Committee will take up the proposed SMA approval for nearby development.
Photo by Julia Neal

JUNIOR LIFEGUARD TRAINING THIS SUMMER WILL BE AT PUNALU'U BLACK SAND BEACH. Youths ages 12-17 can take the free, one-week course at Punalu'u, Richardson, Kahalu'u or Hapuna Beaches. There will be four opportunities: Mondays through Fridays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from June 17-21, June 24-28, July 6-12 or July 15-19.

Online registration runs through June 10. The mandatory qualifying swim test is on Saturday, June 15 at 9 a.m. It will be held at three places, Richardson Ocean Park in Hilo, Kailua-Kona Pier and Hapuna Beach. A parent or guardian must be present at all times during the test. Preregistration is required. The free training is sponsored by the Hawai'i Fire Department Ocean Safety Division, County of Hawai'i, Hawaiian Lifeguard Association, Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation, Alex and Duke De Rego Foundation, and Mango Tree Events Rentals.

A BELOW NORMAL HURRICANE SEASON is forecast by NOAA’s Central Pacific Hurricane Center and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. The predictions, released on Tuesday calls for one to four tropical cyclones across the central Pacific Hurricane region. A near-normal season has four or five tropical cyclones, which include tropical depressions, tropical storms and hurricanes.

According to NOAA, there is a 50 percent chance of below-normal tropical cyclone activity. The outlook also indicates a 30 per chance of a near-normal season and 20 percent for an above-normal hurricane season across the central Pacific hurricane region. The central Pacific hurricane region is located north of the equator between 140°W and the International Date Line.
“Hurricane season in the central Pacific region is likely to be below average this year,” said Matthew Rosencrans, lead seasonal hurricane forecaster at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of NOAA’s National Weather Service. “A key factor influencing our forecast is the predicted arrival of La Nina this summer, which typically contributes to less tropical cyclone activity across the central Pacific Ocean basin.”
As one of the strongest observed El Ninos nears its end, NOAA scientists predict a quick transition to La Nina conditions. La Nina typically increases wind shear in the central Pacific region, making it harder for storms to develop. Forecasters look at a combination of atmospheric and oceanic conditions, climate patterns and climate models to develop the outlook.

Hurricane Dora, a long-lived hurricane that reached category 4 in 2023, passes south of Hawai'i marking the first major
hurricane in the central Pacific basin since 2020. With her high winds, Dora played an indirect meteorological role in the devastating wildfires on the island of Maui. Image from NOAA’s GOES satellite, August 6, 2023.

The hurricane season outlook is a general guide to the overall seasonal tropical cyclone activity in the central Pacific basin and does not predict whether or how many of these systems will affect Hawai'i. The central Pacific hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through Nov. 30.
“As we look towards our coming hurricane season, we must prepare with the real possibility in mind that a hurricane could impact our community,” said Chris Brenchley, director of NOAA’s Central Pacific Hurricane Center. “Any actions we take now, however small, can make a difference in how resilient our households and communities will be in the event of a storm.”

Forecasters at the Central Pacific Hurricane Center continuously monitor weather conditions using satellites, land-and ocean-based sensors and aircraft reconnaissance missions operated by NOAA and our partners. These observations are fed into complex computer models that run on NOAA supercomputers. Forecasters use that information to develop storm track and intensity forecasts, and provide critical decision support services to emergency managers at the federal, state and county levels.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center and National Hurricane Center will begin using an experimental version of the cone graphic that includes inland tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings. The inclusion of these watches and warnings will help communicate the inland wind risk based on recommendations from social science research.
This season, NWS will upgrade the Hurricane Analysis and Forecast System, which will provide improved forecast skills than the previous version. Central Pacific Hurricane Center and National Hurricane Center will begin forecasting the size of the tropical storm wind field through the five day tropical cyclone forecast. Previously, forecasts of the wind field size were only provided for the first three days.

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center now includes Hawai'i on the operational 6-10 Day and 8-14 Day Temperature and Precipitation Outlook maps, as well as experimental 6-10 Day and 8-14 Day Temperature and Precipitation outlooks with more details for Hawai'i.
Hawaii’s readiness for tropical weather
Hawai'i is an NWS StormReady and TsunamiReady state, one of only eight such designated states in the nation. Participation in the StormReady and TsunamiReady programs help communities be ready, responsive and resilient to weather hazards when they strike. Each county in Hawaii has worked to enhance their readiness for the multitude of hazardous weather that can strike the state.
NOAA advises everyone to "Prepare now and stay informed."
Check for watches and warnings on the Central Pacific Hurricane Center’s website (hurricanes.gov) throughout the season, and visit FEMA’s Ready.gov for additional hurricane preparedness tips. For the latest updates, NOAA’s National Hurricane Center - Pacific on X at @NHC_Pacificoffsite link all season long.

A FIRE BURNED AN UNPERMITTED STRUCTURE IN OCEAN VIEW ON MONDAY NIGHT. Hawaiʻi Fire Department reports responding to the call for 92-8873 Leilani Pkwy just after 9 p.m.
The 1,000 sq. ft. structure was about 250 feet down a steep driveway, fully engulfed with flames. HFD reported the structure and personal belongings a total loss.

KAINAN MIRANDA will lead lead government relations as the new Director for External Affairs at The Nature Conservancy Hawai'i and Palmyra. TNC made the announcement on Tuesday.
TNC owns pristine forest and coastal preserves in Ka'u and throughout the state, including the Kamehame hawsksbill turtle nesting site on the Kaʻū Coast.
Miranda was raised on Hawai'i Island. He received his B.A. in International Political Economy from Pitzer College in Claremont, CA.. Now based on O'ahu, he said he is excited to return to a lifestyle that includes mauka and makai, including both ocean visits and hiking Hawai'i's trails.
Miranda returns to Hawai'i after serving in Washington, D.C. as Senior Policy Advisor for natural resources and conservation to Hawaiʻi Congressman Ed Case.

Kainan Miranda, new head of External Affairs for TNC, Hawai'i and Palmyra
Photo by David Wood

"We are delighted to welcome Kainan as Director of External Affairs," says Ulalia Woodside, Executive Director of TNC Hawai'i and Palmyra. "He has demonstrated a deep commitment to caring for the 'āina and fostering meaningful partnerships throughout Hawai'i to advance conservation goals and ensure the sustainability of our precious ecosystems, from ridge to reef."
A statement from TNC says that In this position, Miranda "will help further the essential policies that enable and fund conservation through direct interaction with local, state, and federal elected officials, government agencies and others."
He said, "I am excited to play a role in advancing The Nature Conservancy's vision for conservation in Hawai'i and Palmyra. I have seen first-hand the impact our innovative, community-led approach to conservation management can have. I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with stakeholders, communities, and policy makers in caring for the 'āina."
TNC reports that "Miranda has a proven track record of success at the federal level. He stewarded Congressman Case's efforts to enact critical legislation such as the Coral Reef Conservation Act reauthorization and the Ka'ena Point National Heritage Area Act, as well as advanced efforts to study whether to establish a National Forest in Hawaiʻi. His leadership in expanding protections in Papahānaumokuākea and the Pacific Remote Islands demonstrates his dedication to preserving Hawai'i's natural heritage for future generations. As Congressman Case's Appropriations Coordinator, Miranda played a central role in securing tens of millions of dollars in federal appropriations for conservation activities in Hawai'i."
See https://www.nature.org/.../where-we.../united-states/hawaii/

ANDRE JOSHEPH FORUNIER, SR. is the 59-year-old Ocean View man who died when his motorcycle veered off the road on May 16. The incident took place at the intersection of Mamalahoa Highway (Highway 11) and Leilani Street.
Responding to a call at 5:37 p.m., Police investigation revealed that a green 2022 Kawasaki KLX300 traveling south had overtaken several vehicles near the Manuka State Park entrance. After passing the

vehicles, the motorcycle was observed crossing over the double solid yellow lines and struck a rock embankment on the mauka side of the highway. The rider was ejected from the motorcycle. He was transported to Kona Community Hospital and was pronounced dead at 10:30 p.m.
Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit initiated a coroner’s inquest investigation and is asking for anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact Officer Adam Roberg at 326-4646 ext. 229 or email adam.roberg@hawaiicounty.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo.
This is the 18th traffic fatality this year compared to 8 at this time last year.

IAN WINTHER OF OCEAN VIEW WAS ARRESTED TUESDAY. Prosecuting Attorney Kelden Waltjen announced that the 50 year-old was indicted by a Kona grand jury in relation to a domestic incident that occurred on April 29 at a residence on King Kalakaua Lane in Hawaiian Ocean View Estates. Winther was arrested on Tuesday morning on a $143,000.00 Indictment warrant.

Winther made his initial appearance in Kona Circuit Court on Tuesday where his bail was maintained at $143,000.00. His trial is scheduled for Sept. 10, 2024.

Ian Winther arrested Tuesday.

Winther was originally charged by way of Complaint and made his initial appearance in Kona District Court on May 2. Over prosecutors’ objections, the Kona District Court judge released Winther on supervised release and ordered him to appear for a preliminary hearing on May 30.

On May 7, Prosecutors presented the case before the Kona grand jury, obtained a true bill, and the issuance of the $143,000.00 warrant.

As the Indictment alleges, Winther is charged with Kidnapping (intentionally or knowingly restrained another person with intent to inflict bodily injury upon and/or subject another person to a sexual offense), Felony Abuse of a Family or Household Member (causing bodily injury by impeding the normal breathing or circulation of the blood by applying pressure on the throat or the neck with any part of the body or a ligature and/or blocking the nose and mouth), Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree, and Assault in the Third Degree.

Kidnapping is a class A felony offense which carries a penalty of a 20-year prison term. Felony Abuse and Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree are both class C felony offenses which carry a maximum penalty of a five-year prison term.

The announcement from the Prosecuting Attorney says, "The charges are merely allegations, and the Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty."

The case was initiated by Kaʻū Patrol. The felony investigation was led by Detective Donovan Kohara, Area II Criminal Investigation Section, and assisted by Detective Scott Dewey. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Kate Perazich. The Office of the Prosecuting Attorney remains dedicated to the pursuit of justice with integrity and commitment. Anyone having information to assist local law enforcement can call Crime Stoppers at (808) 961-8300.

KAʻŪ COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN ACTION COMMITTEE MEETING is Wednesday, May 22 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. at Herkes Kaʻū District Gym multipurpose room. To be discussed: proposal for Action Committee to provide testimony to Windward Planning Commission regarding Black Sands Beach, LLC's Special Management Area permit application for project at the old Sea Mountain resort and golf course property at Punalu'u. Also on the agenda are the proposed bottling plant in Pāhala, and Green Sand subdivision egress and ingress. More at htt ps://records.hawaiicounty.gov/weblink/DocView.aspx?dbid=1&id=9 6374.

Kainani Kahaunaele performs Wednesday, 7 p.m. at
Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium.

NĀ LEO MANU: MUSIC WITH KAINANI KAHAUNAELE is Wednesday May 22 from 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Enjoy the mele of Kainani Kahaunaele, an advocate for Hawaiian music. She shares her passion by teaching Hawaiian language, music, and Ethnobotany at Ka Haka ʻUla O Keʻelikōlani College of Hawaiian Language and Literature at University of Hawai'i. Free. Park fees apply.

ALOHA FRIDAY AT VAC GALLERY: LAUHALA WEAVING WITH KUUIPO KALAHIKI-MORALES is Friday May 24 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. on porch of Volcano Art Center Gallery in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Visitors and kama'aina alike are invited to experience a free, hands-on workshop. Free cultural events are part of VAC's Cultural Connections Initiative supported in part by Hawaiʻi State Grant In Aid (GIA) Wai Wai Program. Park fees apply.

COMMUNITY STEWARDSHIP: KA ʻOHANA O HONUʻAPO LOKO IʻA WORKDAY is Saturday, May 25 from 9 a.m. - noon. Families and individuals welcome. Work day includes introduction, talk story, waiver signing, clean-up, pot-luck style lunch. BYO-lunch, snacks, water bottles, protective clothing. Water and juice provided. RSVP and more information at kaohanaohonuapo@gmail.com.

DIETRICH VAREZ EXHIBITION through Sunday May 26 at VAC Gallery in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.

About The Kaʻū Calendar