Kaʻū News Briefs May 8, 2024

Sen. Dru Kanuha, one of the recipients of Hawai'i Legislator of the Year from Hawai'i Coffee Association, worked for years to pass the truth in labeling bill for coffee that passed the Hawai'i Legislature and is on Gov. Josh Green's desk for his signature.
Photo from HCA

A TRUTH IN LABELING BILL FOR KAʻŪ, KONA AND OTHER HAWAIIAN COFFEE AWAITS THE SIGNATURE OF GOV. JOSH GREEN. House Bill 2298 CD1 made it through the Hawai'i Legislature last week and it is expected that some coffee blenders will lobby the governor to veto it. The bill mandates that beginning July 1, 2027, any coffee labeled or advertised with a Hawaiʻi geographic origin must consist of at least 51 percent coffee by weight from that geographic region. 

    Until then, the existing rule requires 10 percent. That means that Kaʻū Coffee, chocolate covered beans and other products can be labeled as coming from Kaʻū when 90 percent of the coffee is from other regions, or even from another country. The new law, introduced in the Hawai'i Legislature in many forms for more than three decades, "aims to protect Hawaiʻi's origin products, combat deceptive labeling, and ensure that products that bear regional names contain at least a majority of product from that region," says a statement from the Hawai'i Senate. It also aims to ensure farmers receive prices they deserve and that money stays in the local economy. 

    State House of Representatives member Nicole E. Lowen, who introduced the measure, said that coffee labeled as coming from a coffee region in Hawai'i should be 100 percent from that region, "but given that this is the first progress made on this in more than 30 years, it’s a huge win."

Rep. Jeanne Kapela said the new law for truth in
 coffee labeling will support economic growth.
Photo from Kapela

  On Jan. 18, Hawai'i Department of Agriculture submitted to the Hawai'i Legislature a Final Report on the Economic Study on Changes in Coffee Labeling Law. The report showed that an increase in the minimum amount of coffee from 10 percent to either 51 percent or 100 percent would be advantageous for local farmers, with a higher increase providing the most benefit. It also projected that the new law would result in a price increase while seeing minimal impact on quantities grown or sold. 

    House of Representatives member Jeanne Kapela, who represents Kaʻū and Kona Coffee farmers, said that for too long, makers of blended coffee products have used the regional name and reputation for profit at the expense of farmers. "This law is a step forward in doing the right thing for Hawaiʻi's farmers and supporting their economic growth.”

   Kapela grew up in a coffee farming family and became Miss Kona Coffee, which launched her to become Miss Hawai'i in the Miss America pageant. 

   Senator Dru Kanuha, who also represents Kaʻū and Kona Coffee regions, said the new law is "a pivotal advancement in our ongoing commitment to safeguarding the integrity of Hawaiʻi’s cherished agricultural industries. By requiring a majority percentage of coffee from the specified geographic region in labeled products, we’re not only protecting our farmers’ livelihoods but also ensuring that consumers receive authentic, high-quality coffee synonymous with our beloved regions like Kona and Kaʻū. This legislation reflects our dedication to fostering a sustainable and transparent agricultural sector, one that honors our traditions while promoting economic prosperity for generations to come. I look forward to continuing the work ahead to further strengthen and preserve the rich heritage of Hawaiʻi’s coffee industry for all."
   Senator Tim Richards, who is vice chair of the Agriculture & Environment Committee and member of the Commerce & Consumer Protection Committee, said, "This session, the Legislature was able to pass out a bill that ultimately supports our coffee farmers and in reality, the whole coffee industry in the State of Hawai‘i. By increasing the required percentage of Hawai‘i regional coffee to 51 percent for the use of geographic monograms, we are raising standards, enhancing transparency in labeling, and will ultimately advance the coffee industry over time. Mahalo to the coffee processors and farmers who worked together to find middle ground."

    A separate bill for truth in labeling for macadamia also passed. See a story on it in upcoming news briefs.
 

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Participation in Little League helps build the future for Trojan baseball, say the coaches.
Photo by Josh Crook

"A TREMENDOUS SEASON FOR KAʻŪ TROJANS BASEBALL," is the report from
Assistant Coach Josh Crook. "The varsity baseball team had a winning season for the first time in a long time. They made it to the BIIF championship for the first time since 2011."
    Manager Rolland Alcoran said, "I am ecstatic about how this season went; after so many years of losing seasons, this was great. And I look forward to the upcoming seasons." Crook said, "The Kaʻū  community owes a lot of thanks to Alcoran, who brought back the baseball program." Alcoran said, "There is so much talent in this community that someone had to start it back up for the kids."

Trojans took the count deep in baseball.
Photo by Josh Crook

Trojans made BIIF playoffs for the first time
since 2011. Photo by Josh Crook

   Crook noted the year started with the JV team and ended with Varsity in playoffs. He is also Kaʻū Little League president and said, "I am now seeing the kids that I had coached in tee ball come up to the high school level. The feeder programs are now starting to show, and that should help the program tremendously. 

    "It takes a lot of community support to succeed in this endeavor and a lot of money, volunteers, hard work, and heart to make all this work. I wish more of the community would come to support these guys as they compete at this level. These guys need to feel they are loved and encouraged by the community."            Kaʻū Trojans played a three-game BIIF series with Konaweana Wildcats. The first was in Waimea, where Trojans lost 10-0. The second ended in 8-1, Trojans losing.

    "The losses didn't come from lack of effort, Alcoran said. "The boys need to leave it on the field. These boys wanted to beat those guys and were willing to do whatever it took."
    Crook reported that "Seniors Ocean Sesson and Joe Buyuan gave it all they had in the infield. Buyuan was shutting them down defensively and Sesson was like a wild man all over the field making plays and stopping balls. Seniors Jaestin Karasuda, TJ Faafia, and Dominic Dacalio in the outfield made every play they could to keep the Trojans in the game.
    "Sophomore Devin Alpin had a great game defensively at first base. Sophomore Riley Koch pitched a great second game and did his job on the rubber, along with Freshman catcher Ian Beck who was behind 

Trojans earned a spot in BIIF playoffs.
Photo by Josh Crook

the plate for both games. Sophomore Caleb Crook played shortstop during the second game and kept his team engaged by stopping every ball hit to him. Freshman Eli Crook got his chance in the second game, finishing off the Wildcats game in the top of the 7th.
    "Offensively, it doesn't look good on paper, but the boys put up a fight at the plate, taking the counts deep," said Crook. Beck had the Trojan's only RBI with a base hit to right center, driving in Koch, who reached base on a hit by pitch, and stole 2nd and 3rd. Both Karasuda and Eli Crook walked. Sophomore Obten Boaz pinch ran but got thrown out at 2nd trying to steal.    

    Crook said, "Hopefully, more guys will come out next year for JV and continue into the Varsity season. I love this small-town, underdog, scrapper team; it fits my style. To me, it's not about being a superstar as the world sees it but as individuals working hard and being a team player, win or lose. I'd take any kid who wants to play and give it their best; I was truly blessed to be part of this team this year."
    Coach Jeremy VanArkel said, "I'm proud of the hard work these young men put in for the entire season. While we did not experience the desired results in our last two games, the guys should be proud of making it to the playoffs due to their hard work and dedication."
    The coaches expressed a huge thanks parents who provided food for every home game and supported this program. "Thank you for your support this season from the coaching staff Manager Rolland Alcoran, and coaches Jeremy VanArkel, Terry Cox, and Josh Crook. Aloha! The Kaʻū Trojans Ended the season with a record of 5-5. Losing to 3 teams in their division and losing to 2 teams in Division 1."

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In 1979, Coach Barba revitalized the Kaʻū High football program by temporarily suspending the varsity team and leading the junior varsity squad to the BIIF championship. 

THE PASSING OF A SEASONED KAʻŪ SPORTS COACH ROBERT BARBA, 82, has drawn a story from Kaʻū High alumnus Tim Wright, Class of '77. He writes: The Kaʻū community and sports enthusiasts mourn the recent passing of Robert Barba.    

    Upon his return to Pahala after his service in the Army, Coach Barba couldn't bear to watch a Kaʻū High football game; the desire to suit up and return to the field consumed him. By the early 1970s, Coach Barba reignited his passion, first as a Pop Warner and flag football coach and eventually as a coach for Kaʻū High School by the late 70's. What an exceptional coach he became. He instilled in his young Trojans the skill of grinding out yardage with swift running plays and precise short passes.
    In a heartfelt Facebook post, retired Hilo High Coach Leroy Simms expressed his admiration for Coach Barba's unique football wishbone offense and stout defense and said he eagerly sought to learn from him. Despite Coach Simms' persistent efforts, Coach Barba kept his offensive strategies closely guarded, adding an air of mystery to his coaching style that continues to captivate and inspire.
    Playfully teasing Coach Simms, Coach Barba declared, "It remains a secret!" One person Coach Barba shared his wishbone offense with was a player on Barba's 1976-77 football team, Kaʻū Quarterback Catalino Alcordo, his first cousin. "Coach Bobby had an advanced mind for his time; he came up with the best plays and knew how to dismantle other teams' offense; if there's one thing I can take away from his mentorship, it is that he told me if you wanted to be great you have to go above and beyond your peers."
    Alcordo said as he reminisced about his years under Barba's wing from age nine, playing Pop Warner 

Coach Bobby Barba tapes boxer Catalino Alcordo's arm with boxer Danny Pua.

football and boxing at age nine, playing Pop Warner football and boxing.
    In 1979, Coach Barba revitalized the Kaʻū High football program by temporarily suspending the varsity team and leading the junior varsity squad to the BIIF championship.
    Coach Barba dedicated 34 years as a loading machine operator and welder for the former Kaʻū Sugar Company while mentoring countless youths in the community. Recognizing his extensive coaching career spanning multiple sports, Coach Barba was inducted into The Big Island Sports Hall of Fame as its 90th member a few years ago, a testament to his unwavering dedication and profound impact on those he coached and mentored. His teachings extended beyond the sports arena, instilling essential physical and mental conditioning lessons that prepared his students for both sports and life's challenges.
    Coach Barba's legacy lives on through the legion of grateful Kaʻū High School Trojans, each a testament to his enduring influence as a coach and mentor. His impact on the Kaʻū community was profound, and his memory will forever be cherished. A memorial to honor Coach Barba's life will be scheduled for a future date.

Barba was Pop Warner and flag football coach and eventually as a coach for Kaʻū High School by the late 70's.

This is his 1976-1977 team.

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A SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT WARNING OF POSSIBLE SEVERE WEATHER ACROSS THE ISLANDS was issued Wednesday afternoon by NOAA National Weather Service. The statement says, "An unusually strong upper level disturbance is expected to approach the islands later Friday into Saturday, bringing the possibiLity of very active weather to portions of the Aloha State. The latest guidance indicates a possibility for severe thunderstorms, which could produce damaging winds and large hail, as well as the possibility for localized intense rainfall and flash flooding. The details of this event, including timing, locations most at risk, and intensity, are still uncertain. We will continue to monitor this potential. Listen for later statements, as well as possible watches and warnings, as this event becomes more clear."

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HOME HERBALIST WORKSHOP WITH HEATHER PENFIELD is Saturday May 11 from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. at Volcano Arts Center Niaulani Campus in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Learn germ boosting powers of plants & herbs and discover how to use them, learn the art of making effective remedies at home. Watch how products are made from start to finish. Includes: class handout with recipes and samples. Class fee is $60/$55 for VAC members plus a $20 supply fee. Register at https://volcanoartcenter.org/classes-and-workshops/registration-workshops-classes/.

NA'OHULELUA HISTORICAL GARDEN, NURSERY & NATIVE PROPAGATION CENTER IS OPEN Saturday, May 11, Sunday May 19 and Saturday May 25 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at 94-6488 Kama'ōa Road, Nāʻālehu. Offering rare & endangered native Hawaiian plants, several varieties of organic Moringa "The Miracle Tree" & more, ready to plant. A Mission of Alanui 'O Ka'ū a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization. Private appointments, special orders, volunteer opportunities and other inquiries text (808) 256-3193.

ZENTANGLE® RIXTY VARIATIONS WORKSHOP WITH IRIS THORNTON is Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Volcano Arts Center Niaulani Campus in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Zentangle is an easy-to-learn fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Rixty is a simple and dynamic tangle that is odd and familiar at the same time. This class is open to all levels, no Zentangle or art experience necessary. Students are encouraged to bring snacks/beverages to share. Cost is $35/$30 VAC members plus a $15 supply and facility fee. Register at https://volcanoartcenter.org/classes-and-workshops/registration-workshops-classes/.

HULA KAHIKO UNDER THE DIRECTION OF KUMU KINI KAʻAWA is Saturday, May 11 from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at Volcano Arts Center in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. This performance is part of a year-round series sponsored by the Volcano Art Center. Presented authentically in an outdoor setting, rain or shine without electronic amplification. Audience members are encouraged to bring sun/rain gear and sitting mats. For more information call (808) 967-7565.

SOUTH HAWAI`I SYMPHONY PRESENTS: MOTHERS' APPRECIATION CONCERT. Saturday, May 11 from 2 p.m. at Discovery Harbour Community Center, 94-1604 Makali`i St, Nāʻālehu. With classical pieces by Mozart and Shubert and popular music from movies such as Star Wars, Ben Hur, Harry Potter, E.T. and more. Farley Sangels will conduct 15-piece orchestra. Free event. Donations welcome.

JAZZ IN THE FOREST: "TAKE A GIANT STEP OUTSIDE YOUR MIND – A HISTORY OF JAZZ GUITAR MUSIC" is Saturday, May 11 from 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. at Volcano Arts Center Niaulani Campus in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Featuring internationally known and respected guitarist and vocalist Benny Yutake, along with JP and the Jazztones featuring JP Thoma on saxophones and clarinet, Joey Carroll on vocals, acoustic as well as electric bass, and Owen Matsui on percussion. Tickets are $25 for VAC members and $30 for non-members. Purchase tickets at www.volcanoartcenter.org, or at VAC's Administration Office in Volcano Village.

VOLCANO WINERY'S MOTHER'S DAY MARKET is Sunday, May 12 from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. at Volcano Winery, 35 Piʻi Mauna Drive, Volcano. Featuring wine, crafts, food and more. More information at https://m.facebook.com/volcanowinery/.

MOTHER'S DAY CONCERT: FEATURING THE VOLCANO CHAMBER PLAYERS is Sunday, May 12 from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Volcano Art Center's Dietrich Varez Hall in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. The concert is a special tribute to mothers. Beverages and pupu will be available for purchase. Tickets available at https://volcanoartcenter.org/classes-and-workshops/purchase-tickets-to-vac-events/.

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Kaʻū News Briefs May 7, 2024

Award ceremonies last Saturday, honoring Kaʻū High tenth grader Megan Pierpoint, right, and
other younger winners in the Maunakea Coin Contest. Photo from Maunakea Observatories

MEGAN PIERPOINT WON THE 2024 MAUNAKEA COIN CONTEST, reports social studies teacher and mentor David Santos. The tenth grader at Kaʻū High & Pahala Elementary was given the award last Saturday at AstroDay at Prince Kuhio Plaza in Hilo. The Maunakea Coin Contest was initiated by an astronomer related to Subaru Telescope in 2011, and the Maunakea Astronomy Outreach Committee has led the contest. See https://www.maunakeaobservatories.org/coincontest./

    The annual Maunakea Coin Contest is open to all Big Island students in grades K to 12, including homeschooled children with separate categories for the keiki and older students. Students are asked to make a drawing for a design that can go on a bronze collector’s coin, available at the First Light Bookstore at the Visitor Information Station on Maunakea. Aluminum versions are available at Maunakea Astronomy Outreach Committee events throughout the year. The designs submitted for each year’s contest represent Maunakea and include different aspects of the mountain: its natural resources, astronomy, and culture.
    Sponsors of the event include KTA Super Stores, ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawai‘i, Galaxy Garden/Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary, East Hawai‘i Cultural Center, and Maunakea Observatories.

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THE SUDDEN PASSING OF STAR ALAMEDA, WIFE OF MAYORAL CANDIDATE DR. KIMO ALAMEDA is a tragedy that struck the Alameda 'Ohana last Friday, May 3. She was found

Dr. Kimo Alameda and his wife who died suddenly
on Friday morning. Photo from Alameda family

unresponsive in the morning. Valiant efforts by family and Hawai'i County EMS personnel were unable to revive her, says a statement from the family.
    Star Alameda accompanied her husband to their mayoral campaign events throughout Kaʻū, serving up food to community members and meeting people. The family statement says:
    "Star was immensely proud of her seven children, one grandchild, and her large extended island 'ohana. Before joining her husband on the campaign, she taught reading at E. B. DeSilva Elementary and volunteered as a Sunday school teacher at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Star was well-known in her community for her kindness, generosity, and love of children. 'Gentle and soft-hearted,' 'a spiritual giant,' 'humble and sweet,' 'approachable and dedicated' are a few of the hundreds of comments on their Facebook page.
    "My mom was everything to us. Always putting the needs of others before her own. We are super sad, but we know she is still guiding us and my dad to do good and to be happy," shared Angel Alameda, the eldest of the seven children.
    Kimo Alameda said, "Star was the light of my life and the backbone of our family. Through everything, she stood right by my side as my number one supporter and advisor. Her memory will continue to shine on to everyone who was lucky enough to know her."
    When asked about the campaign, he stated that he intends to continue, but "my immediate focus right now is to be with my family as we remember Star. I want to thank everybody for the outpouring of prayers and aloha during this difficult time."
    Born in Hilo, Star was the daughter of the late Herbert Ishibashi and is survived by her mother Mona Ishibashi, brothers Sky (Tina) Ishibashi, Herbert Pua (Gloria) Ishibashi, and sister Roxy Tubbs. Star's children are Angel Alameda, Kekaulike Alameda, Seizen (Tavita) Ika, Kekaukahi Alameda, Kekaulana Alameda, Kira Alameda, and Kimo Alameda Jr.
    Updates on any services or arrangements will be forthcoming, says the family statement.

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A POLICEMAN WHO DIED IN 1916 will be added to this island's Memorial Wall for fallen police officers during Police Hawai'i Police Department recently learned that Hilo Police Officer Michol Octobre was murdered in a shootout with a suspect in Kalopa on December 8, 1916.

    An HPD statement says, "Hilo and Kalopa were gripped by fear as a serial killer, Maxime Bondad, terrorized the community. Officer Octobre, undercover as a laborer, embarked on a dangerous mission to locate Bondad. His dedication led to a crucial lead – Bondad's suspected hiding place.
    "With Deputy Sheriff Rickard by his side, Officer Octobre bravely ascended the Kalopa hillside. Despite the risk, he attempted a peaceful resolution by calling out to Bondad. This courageous act tragically went unanswered. A single gunshot shattered the quiet. Bondad, who was hidden in the brush, shot and fatally wounded Officer Octobre. Officers returned gunfire and killed Bondad where he hid.

Some of the fallen police officers memorialized on the wall. HPD photos

    "Officer Michol Octobre, and all heroes whose names grace this wall, deserve our deepest gratitude, utmost respect, and a promise: We will never forget. Police Week is a nationally recognized week of activities in support of police work and in recognition of officers who have died or been disabled in the line of duty. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed every May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week it falls in as National Police Week. In Hawaiʻi County, Police Week activities will take place from Sunday, May 12, through Friday, May 18.
The public is invited to attend formal Police Week ceremonies on Monday, May 13, at 10 a.m., at Hilo police station and Friday, May 17, at 11 a.m. at West Hawaii Civic Center. Both ceremonies include pre-ceremony entertainment and a tribute to Hawaiʻi County officers who gave their lives in the line of duty. Police will pay tribute to:                                                                                      

    Police Captain T. Simeona, who gave his life in 1890.

   Officer Manuel Cadinha, who gave his life in 1918.

    Officer William “Red” Oili, who gave his life in 1936.
    Officer Ronald “Shige” Jitchaku, who gave his life in 1990.
    Officer Kenneth Keliipio, who gave his life in 1997.
    Park Ranger Steve Makuakane-Jarrell, who gave his life in 1999.
    Officer Bronson Kaimana Kaliloa, who gave his life in 2018.
   
    During Police Week, members of the public are encouraged to attend station tours at the Hilo and Kona Police stations on Friday, May 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Please call Sergeant Amy Omaya at (808) 961-2264 to schedule an appointment.

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DANGERS OF FENTANYL ARE SHARED BY Hawai‘i Police Department, which provides monthly updates on the amount of fentanyl related arrests (possession/distribution) in Hawai‘i County and the quantity of fentanyl recovered for the preceding month.
    During  April, there were six fentanyl related arrests, five in Area I (east Hawai‘i) and one in Area II (west Hawai‘i). Police recovered 142.17 grams of illicit fentanyl last month, including 14.77 grams in Area I and 127.4 grams in Area II.
    According to the Drug Enforcement Agency, two milligrams of illicit fentanyl, equal to a couple grains of salt, is a lethal dose. The 142.17 total grams of illicit fentanyl recovered by HPD in March was enough to kill over 50,000 Hawai‘i Island residents. In the first quarter of 2024, HPD recovered 297.91 grams of illicit fentanyl, enough to kill 148,955 Hawai‘i Island residents.

Image from Hawai'i Police Department

    HPD also recovered a total of 80.5 fentanyl pills, with 80.5 pills recovered in Area I and zero recovered in Area II. An HPD statement says, "
    Hawai‘i Police Department is committed to fighting drugs on island and apprehending those that distribute and sell illegal narcotics. In recent years, the use of illicit fentanyl has reached epidemic proportions on the mainland and Hawai‘i. Criminal drug networks are mixing this dangerous synthetic opioid into illegal counterfeit pills and selling them as legitimate prescription pills, often with deadly consequences.
    For fentanyl safety tips, how to recognize fentanyl poisoning, and more, go to HPD’s website: https://www.hawaiipolice.com/services/crime-tips#fentanyl.
    Those with information relating to illicit drug use and distribution, as well as vice issues such as prostitution, gambling, and other related crimes, HPD encourages calling  East Hawaiʻi and West Hawaiʻi Vice Sections 24-hour anonymous vice/drug tip hotlines at (808) 329-“ZERO-ICE” (808) 329-0423 with infopertaining to districts of Kaʻū, Kona, South Kohala, and North Kohala, and (808) 934-“VICE” (808) 934-8423 with info pertaining to districts of Puna, South Hilo, North Hilo, and Hāmākua.
    Those who call will be asked to provide information, without giving their name, address or telephone number. All information is kept confidential and within the Criminal Investigation Division. Information is cross-referenced, allowing detectives to determine if additional information related to the criminal activity about which you are calling has been reported in the past. Even “small” bits of information can at times provide detectives with the “missing link” that allows them to take action, according to HPD.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See upcoming events, print edition and archive. Support this news service with advertising at kaunews.com. 

7,500 copies the mail and on stands.

HOME HERBALIST WORKSHOP WITH HEATHER PENFIELD is Saturday May 11 from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. at Volcano Arts Center Niaulani Campus in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Learn germ boosting powers of plants & herbs and discover how to use them, learn the art of making effective remedies at home. Watch how products are made from start to finish. Includes: class handout with recipes and samples. Class fee is $60/$55 for VAC members plus a $20 supply fee. Register at https://volcanoartcenter.org/classes-and-workshops/registration-workshops-classes/.

NA'OHULELUA HISTORICAL GARDEN, NURSERY & NATIVE PROPAGATION CENTER IS OPEN Saturday, May 11, Sunday May 19 and Saturday May 25 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at 94-6488 Kama'ōa Road, Nāʻālehu. Offering rare & endangered native Hawaiian plants, several varieties of organic Moringa "The Miracle Tree" & more, ready to plant. A Mission of Alanui 'O Ka'ū a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization. Private appointments, special orders, volunteer opportunities and other inquiries text (808) 256-3193.

ZENTANGLE® RIXTY VARIATIONS WORKSHOP WITH IRIS THORNTON is Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Volcano Arts Center Niaulani Campus in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Zentangle is an easy-to-learn fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Rixty is a simple and dynamic tangle that is odd and familiar at the same time. This class is open to all levels, no Zentangle or art experience necessary. Students are encouraged to bring snacks/beverages to share. Cost is $35/$30 VAC members plus a $15 supply and facility fee. Register at https://volcanoartcenter.org/classes-and-workshops/registration-workshops-classes/.

HULA KAHIKO UNDER THE DIRECTION OF KUMU KINI KAʻAWA is Saturday, May 11 from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at Volcano Arts Center in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. This performance is part of a year-round series sponsored by the Volcano Art Center. Presented authentically in an outdoor setting, rain or shine without electronic amplification. Audience members are encouraged to bring sun/rain gear and sitting mats. For more information call (808) 967-7565.

SOUTH HAWAI`I SYMPHONY PRESENTS: MOTHERS' APPRECIATION CONCERT. Saturday, May 11 from 2 p.m. at Discovery Harbour Community Center, 94-1604 Makali`i St, Nāʻālehu. With classical pieces by Mozart and Shubert and popular music from movies such as Star Wars, Ben Hur, Harry Potter, E.T. and more. Farley Sangels will conduct 15-piece orchestra. Free event. Donations welcome.

JAZZ IN THE FOREST: "TAKE A GIANT STEP OUTSIDE YOUR MIND – A HISTORY OF JAZZ GUITAR MUSIC" is Saturday, May 11 from 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. at Volcano Arts Center Niaulani Campus in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Featuring internationally known and respected guitarist and vocalist Benny Yutake, along with JP and the Jazztones featuring JP Thoma on saxophones and clarinet, Joey Carroll on vocals, acoustic as well as electric bass, and Owen Matsui on percussion. Tickets are $25 for VAC members and $30 for non-members. Purchase tickets at www.volcanoartcenter.org, or at VAC's Administration Office in Volcano Village.

MOTHER'S DAY CONCERT: FEATURING THE VOLCANO CHAMBER PLAYERS is Sunday, May 12 from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Volcano Art Center's Dietrich Varez Hall in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. The concert is a special tribute to mothers. Beverages and pupu will be available for purchase. Tickets available at https://volcanoartcenter.org/classes-and-workshops/purchase-tickets-to-vac-events/.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see facebook.com/kaucalendar. See upcoming events, print edition and archive. Support this news service with advertising at kaunews.com. 

7,500 copies the mail and on stands.

Kaʻū News Briefs May 6, 2024

A special public hearing on the proposed development at Punalu'u was held Monday but Windward Planning Commission
 is unable to vote until two contested cases are heard on the matter and a recommendation made by a hearing officer.
Photo from YouTube of the meeting

WINDWARD PLANNING COMMISSION'S VOTE ON APPROVING THE BLACK SAND BEACH, LLC DEVELOPMENT will be delayed until mediation or a contested case hearing is completed. See testimony: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTfM1FCZxW4
    Following hours of public testimony on Monday when most speakers opposed the development, Windward Planning Commission voted to accept two contested cases, which take discussion on the proposed development at Punalu'u to mediation between the developers and the community groups. If mediation doesn't work, the process will enter a court like contested case process with a hearing officer. The hearing officer provides a recommendation to the Planning Commission, which is tasked with taking the hearing officer's and planning director's recommendations into consideration along with testimony and advice from the Planning Commission. Planning Commission voted on Monday to process the two contested cases in concert.
    The Planning Commission voted 5-0 to approve the contested case requested by community group 'Iewe Hanau o Ka 'Āina and its attorney David Kimo Frankel. In its petition addressing Punalu'u, 'Iewe Hanau o Ka 'Āina was described as "an unincorporated hui of Kaʻū residents who desire to protect the cultural practices, natural resources, and stunning beauty of Punalu'u. The protection of the iwi and honu are of great importance. Members of 'Iewe Hanao o Ka 'Āina walk along the Punalu'u coastline, swim at Punalu'u Beach, observe marine life, provide stewardship of the land, work to protect the honu that live in the area, gather marine life, participate in cultural protocol, and respect the burials in the area. 'Iewe Hanau o Ka 'Āina includes Native Hawaiians with deep cultural connections to Punalu'u. The interests of 'Iewe Hanau o Ka 'Āina and its members would be adversely affected by the proposed project in numerous ways."
    The petition contends that increasing the density of people in area would jeopardize the coastal water quality and further desecrate burials on the land at Punalu'u. It says the group's "constitutionally protected cultural practices would be jeopardized," and that the group has "a right to a clean and healthful environment."

Majority of testimonies submitted on Monday opposed the plan by Black Sand Beach, LLC
Black Sand Beach, LLC. See testimony: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTfM1FCZxW4

    Windward Planning Commission voted 4-1 to approve the contested case requested by the Center for Biological Diversity, its members including the 'ohana of Elsa Kalanikauleleiaiwi Dedman, which owns land adjacent to the Black Sand Beach, LLC project.
    The organization and its Hawai'i Director and staff attorney Maxx Phillips stated that its "Hawai'i Program focuses specifically on conserving ecosystems and seeks to ensure that imperiled species are properly protected from destructive practices across our pae'aina. Through sciences, policy and environmental law, the Center is actively involved i species and habitat protection issues throughout Hawai'i, including efforts related to Hawai'i's imperiled pland and animal species, such as the endangered hawksbill and threatened green sea turtles, and effective implementation of Federal, State, and County laws. The Center's members hav legally protected interests in the survival and recovery of endangered and threatened species and habitats they depend on. The Center's members derive scientific, recreational, cultural religious, conservation, spiritual, subsistence, educational, and aesthetic benefits form the myriad of native plants' and animals' existence in the wild of Punalu'u."
    The petition contends that the Black Sand Beach, LLC project would injure the species, habitat and environment of Punalu'u." The petition quotes section of the Hawai'i State Constitution, as approved in 1978, which said that "Each person has the right to a clean and healthful environment defined by laws relating to environmental quality, including control of pollution and conservation, protection and enhancement of natural resources. Any person may enforce the right against any party, public or private, through appropriate legal proceedings..."
    The Commission informed the petitioners that they will be contacted within about a week to set up the contested case proceedings.
The attorney for Black Sand Beach, LLC, Lincoln Ashida, filed an objection against the acceptance of both petitions. He also argued against a third contested case petitioned by condo owners at Punalu'u. The Planning Commission voted 3-2 to approve the petition but needed four votes for approval, under its rules.
See the hours of testimony and contested case procedure at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTfM1FCZxW4

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