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| Ka`u Coffee growers John AhSan, Gloria Camba, Efren Abelleras and Kili Matsui met with U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard at Ka`u Coffee Mill yesterday. Photo by Ron Johnson |
“INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT is a non-partisan, bipartisan issue,” U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard told her constituents yesterday at Ka`u Coffee Mill. Discussions about agriculture on Hawai`i Island included control of coffee berry borer and macadamia felted coccid. Gabbard said she has supported funding to help control such pests, pointing to the federal Coffee Plant Health Initiative that helped researchers combat the invasive pests that threaten local farmers.
Representatives from Hawai`i Farmers Union United, Ka`u Farm Bureau, Ka`u Coffee Growers Cooperative, Palehua `Ohana Coffee Cooperative, Hawai`i Coffee Association, Hawai`i University of Hawai`i and many farmers and ranchers attended. |
| U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard responds to a question from Wood Valley resident Miles Mayne, in back. Photo by Ron Johnson |
Ka`u Coffee Mill owner Ed Olson asked for more federal money to go directly to farmers to purchase the fungus application that fights the borer in coffee fields.
Greg Smith, president of Ka`u’s chapter of Hawai`i Farmers Union United, asked Gabbard about removing hemp from the federal Class I category so that Hawai`i can take advantage of its potential. He said Hawai`i farmers are afraid of the U.S. government curtailing any growing of the plant, which he said has many benefits. Several people talked about its use in making fabric.
Greg Smith, president of Ka`u’s chapter of Hawai`i Farmers Union United, asked Gabbard about removing hemp from the federal Class I category so that Hawai`i can take advantage of its potential. He said Hawai`i farmers are afraid of the U.S. government curtailing any growing of the plant, which he said has many benefits. Several people talked about its use in making fabric.
Gabbard said there are “a lot of misinformed people” who put hemp in the same category as marijuana. “It speaks to the challenges and opportunities to educate people,” she said. She said she has co-sponsored legislation to allow hemp cultivation and declassify it and that each time the issue comes up, more legislators come on board. An Ocean View resident also mentioned Arundo donats rex, or King Cane, as an alternative to hemp.
When a resident asked what to do about money in politics, Gabbard said people need to keep their elected officials accountable. She also expressed concern about “the revolving door,” whereby former elected officials take jobs with donors and become lobbyists for their employers’ interests. She said she supports campaign spending regulations.
Another resident asked about the logic behind the county planning to build a wastewater treatment plant that he said would inject waste into the freshwater aquifer and ocean. Gabbard said she would look into the plan that, as described, “would violate federal laws.”
Regarding limited funding for agricultural inspections and programs to help Ka`u become more stable, Gabbard said that funds going to military actions overseas that she doesn’t support “limits funds for use here.” She has spoken out against using the military in regime change operations overseas. “There are a lot of decisions that have been made where people are using (weapons) against us that are supplied by us,” she said.
When a resident asked what to do about money in politics, Gabbard said people need to keep their elected officials accountable. She also expressed concern about “the revolving door,” whereby former elected officials take jobs with donors and become lobbyists for their employers’ interests. She said she supports campaign spending regulations.
Another resident asked about the logic behind the county planning to build a wastewater treatment plant that he said would inject waste into the freshwater aquifer and ocean. Gabbard said she would look into the plan that, as described, “would violate federal laws.”
Regarding limited funding for agricultural inspections and programs to help Ka`u become more stable, Gabbard said that funds going to military actions overseas that she doesn’t support “limits funds for use here.” She has spoken out against using the military in regime change operations overseas. “There are a lot of decisions that have been made where people are using (weapons) against us that are supplied by us,” she said.
See more on Gabbard’s visit to Ka`u in tomorrow’s Ka`u Calendar News Briefs.
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| Prepare now for Madeline's arrival in Ka`u. Map from NOAA |
A HURRICANE WARNING is in effect as Major Hurricane Madeline closes in on Ka`u. At 5 p.m., the hurricane was 350 miles east of Hilo, moving west at 10 mph, with sustained winds at 110 mph. The Central Pacific Hurricane Center stated, "This track will take the center of Madeline dangerously close to the Big Island of Hawai`i late Wednesday into Thursday," and urged, "Your preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion."
Madeline reached peak intensity Monday evening as a Category 4 Hurricane but assumed what is expected to be a gradual weakening. However, Central Pacific Hurricane Center keeps the system at hurricane strength as it passes just south of the Big Island.
The chance for tropical storm conditions at South Point is almost 90 percent, hurricane conditions under 20 percent. Tropical storm force winds of 39 mph or higher are expected from Wednesday afternoon through late Thursday morning based on the latest forecast track, with hurricane force winds possible as early as Wednesday evening. Depending on the exact track of Madeline, there is the possibility of winds as high as 60 to 80 mph and significant wind damage, including downed trees and power lines, and damage to roofs and weak structures.
A flash flood watch is in effect. Deep tropical moisture associated with Madeline will begin to impact the Big Island by tomorrow morning, bringing the threat of heavy rainfall and flooding through late Thursday. Total rain accumulations of five to 10 inches are possible, with isolated maximum amounts near 15 inches. This rainfall may lead to dangerous flash floods and mudslides.
CPHC reminded the public to not focus too closely on the forecast track and that hazards associated with hurricanes can extend well away from the center.
In preparation for Hurricane Madeline, Hawai`i County Civil Defense advised the public to be StormReady:
Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include a flashlight with fresh batteries, cash, first aid supplies and any medication or supplies specific to you or your family members.
Plan how to communicate with family members. Create an evacuation plan for your household. Bring in or secure outdoor furniture and other items that could blow away. Keep vehicles fueled and cell phones charged.
To help preserve water availability through the storm, the Department of Water Supply asks customers to minimize non-essential use of water, such as irrigation, at this time.
Find more StormReady tips and sign up for notifications at hawaiicounty.gov. Civil Defense will maintain close communications with the National Weather Service. Continue to monitor your local radio broadcasts for up-to-date information.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
CLOSURES AT HAWAI`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK have been scheduled, starting today, to ensure the safety of visitors and employees, as hurricanes Madeline and Lester approach Hawai‘i Island. By 5 p.m., Kulanaokuaiki Campground and Hilina Pali Road, as well as all backcountry sites and Mauna Loa Road from Kīpukapuaulu to the overlook, will be off limits.
Wednesday, Nāmakanipaio Campground and A-Frame Cabins will close by 9 a.m. The coastal lava viewing area and Chain of Craters Road will close by 9 a.m. Jaggar Museum & Kīlauea Visitor Center, and the entrance station will close, as determined.
Guests staying at Kīlauea Military Camp and Volcano House may shelter in place, or be directed by employees to the nearest shelter (if necessary). In addition, the Kahuku Unit will remain closed over the weekend, but may reopen if Hurricane Lester is not a threat. “Although we don’t intend at this time to close the entire park, visitors are advised to stay off the roads and plan to visit the park once the storms pass and damage is assessed,” said Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando. Hurricane-force winds, dangerous surf, and very heavy rainfall are expected.
Closures will remain in effect until the storms have passed and conditions are safe. Additional closures may be warranted as the storm gets closer, and any damage is assessed. Updates will be posted to the park’s website www.nps.gov/havo, its official social media sites, and recorded to (808) 985-6000.
Popular visitor areas at the summit of Kīlauea will remain open at this time, including Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube), Kīlauea Visitor Center and the Jaggar Museum and observation deck. To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
The chance for tropical storm conditions at South Point is almost 90 percent, hurricane conditions under 20 percent. Tropical storm force winds of 39 mph or higher are expected from Wednesday afternoon through late Thursday morning based on the latest forecast track, with hurricane force winds possible as early as Wednesday evening. Depending on the exact track of Madeline, there is the possibility of winds as high as 60 to 80 mph and significant wind damage, including downed trees and power lines, and damage to roofs and weak structures.
A flash flood watch is in effect. Deep tropical moisture associated with Madeline will begin to impact the Big Island by tomorrow morning, bringing the threat of heavy rainfall and flooding through late Thursday. Total rain accumulations of five to 10 inches are possible, with isolated maximum amounts near 15 inches. This rainfall may lead to dangerous flash floods and mudslides.
CPHC reminded the public to not focus too closely on the forecast track and that hazards associated with hurricanes can extend well away from the center.
In preparation for Hurricane Madeline, Hawai`i County Civil Defense advised the public to be StormReady:
Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include a flashlight with fresh batteries, cash, first aid supplies and any medication or supplies specific to you or your family members.
Plan how to communicate with family members. Create an evacuation plan for your household. Bring in or secure outdoor furniture and other items that could blow away. Keep vehicles fueled and cell phones charged.
To help preserve water availability through the storm, the Department of Water Supply asks customers to minimize non-essential use of water, such as irrigation, at this time.
Find more StormReady tips and sign up for notifications at hawaiicounty.gov. Civil Defense will maintain close communications with the National Weather Service. Continue to monitor your local radio broadcasts for up-to-date information.
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| NASA captured this image of Hurricanes Madeline and Lester yesterday. |
CLOSURES AT HAWAI`I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK have been scheduled, starting today, to ensure the safety of visitors and employees, as hurricanes Madeline and Lester approach Hawai‘i Island. By 5 p.m., Kulanaokuaiki Campground and Hilina Pali Road, as well as all backcountry sites and Mauna Loa Road from Kīpukapuaulu to the overlook, will be off limits.
Wednesday, Nāmakanipaio Campground and A-Frame Cabins will close by 9 a.m. The coastal lava viewing area and Chain of Craters Road will close by 9 a.m. Jaggar Museum & Kīlauea Visitor Center, and the entrance station will close, as determined.
Guests staying at Kīlauea Military Camp and Volcano House may shelter in place, or be directed by employees to the nearest shelter (if necessary). In addition, the Kahuku Unit will remain closed over the weekend, but may reopen if Hurricane Lester is not a threat. “Although we don’t intend at this time to close the entire park, visitors are advised to stay off the roads and plan to visit the park once the storms pass and damage is assessed,” said Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando. Hurricane-force winds, dangerous surf, and very heavy rainfall are expected.
Closures will remain in effect until the storms have passed and conditions are safe. Additional closures may be warranted as the storm gets closer, and any damage is assessed. Updates will be posted to the park’s website www.nps.gov/havo, its official social media sites, and recorded to (808) 985-6000.
Popular visitor areas at the summit of Kīlauea will remain open at this time, including Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube), Kīlauea Visitor Center and the Jaggar Museum and observation deck. To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
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| Nonie Soares responded to reports of a herd of goats roaming land between Makanau and Kawa. Photo by Julia Neal |
NONIE SOARES, OF PUNALU`U Livestock Ranch, responded to reports of a goat herd roaming between Makanau and Kawa.
“The goats are a carefully bred and managed herd that have helped manage invasive plants and used as food by a large number of local clients for over 15 years,” Soares said. “Ranches all over the state value a well-bred goat herd as weed eaters. The alahe`e is in bloom; you can clearly see it proliferating all over the lava area, as well as other areas on the ranch. Simple observation shows that the goats clearly do not care for it. I have noticed after three years of unusually wet weather that the Christmas berry is growing very fast and is really competing with the alahe`e. The good news is my goats love Christmas berry. Unfortunately, the herd cannot begin to keep up with the rapid regrowth that happens in the lowlands of Ka`u.
“As for water pockets (reported to be mosquito breeding grounds), not sure about that. The Hilea river ran several times this year, and the standing water creates mosquitoes by the billions. l know l live there. Overall, my husband and l try our utmost to benefit the `aina, our community and pass our knowledge on to generations of kids.”
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| Ananda Chang, of Ka`u, was reported missing. |
HAWAI`I ISLAND POLICE ARE SEARCHING for a 42-year-old Ka`u woman who was reported missing. Ananda S. Chang was last seen in Ocean View on Thursday, Aug. 25 in a red Chevrolet Cavalier four-door sedan.
She is described as Caucasian, 5-foot-5, 150 pounds with brown eyes and brown hair.
Police ask anyone with information on her whereabouts to call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311 or Officer Henry Ivy at 939-2520.
Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call the islandwide Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300 and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. Crime Stoppers is a volunteer program run by ordinary citizens who want to keep their community safe. Crime Stoppers doesn’t record calls or subscribe to caller ID. Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
Police ask anyone with information on her whereabouts to call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311 or Officer Henry Ivy at 939-2520.
Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call the islandwide Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300 and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. Crime Stoppers is a volunteer program run by ordinary citizens who want to keep their community safe. Crime Stoppers doesn’t record calls or subscribe to caller ID. Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
A 61-YEAR-OLD NA`ALEHU MAN died when the tractor-trailer truck he was driving crashed early Monday morning in South Kona near the 85-mile marker Hwy 11 north of Ocean View. He has been identified as Brysson Lorenzo, Sr.
Officers responding to a 2:57 a.m. call determined Lorenzo ran off the right shoulder of the road in a northbound 1994 Kenworth tractor-trailer and collided with a rock embankment. The collision caused the tractor-trailer to overturn onto its left side and catch fire. Lorenzo was taken to Kona Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 8:40 a.m.
Police don’t believe speed was a factor in this crash, and it’s not immediately known if alcohol was a factor.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to call Officer Kimo Keliipaakaua at 326-4646, ext. 229 or Crime Stoppers at 961-8300.
Officers responding to a 2:57 a.m. call determined Lorenzo ran off the right shoulder of the road in a northbound 1994 Kenworth tractor-trailer and collided with a rock embankment. The collision caused the tractor-trailer to overturn onto its left side and catch fire. Lorenzo was taken to Kona Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 8:40 a.m.
Police don’t believe speed was a factor in this crash, and it’s not immediately known if alcohol was a factor.
An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to call Officer Kimo Keliipaakaua at 326-4646, ext. 229 or Crime Stoppers at 961-8300.
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| Hawai`i Ant Lab reports on little fire ants this evening in Na`alehu. |
This is the 17th traffic fatality this year compared with 15 at this time last year.
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LEARN ABOUT HAWAI`I ANT LAB’S and partners’ efforts to control LFA in Ka`u today at 6 p.m. at Na`alehu Community Center. The meeting will focus past and current local treatments and on the project’s next steps, including follow-up baiting treatments and surveys.
See littlefireants.com.
SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AT PAHALAPLANTATIONCOTTAGES.COM AND KAUCOFFEEMILL.COM. KA`U COFFEE MILL IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.
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| Click on document to enlarge. |
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| See kaucalendar.com/KauCalendar_August_2016.pdf. |
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| See kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.html and kaucalendar.com/TheDirectory2016.pdf. |
