July 9, 2004

Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer

You might think that your trash is a homogenous mixture and that it should be relatively easy to deal with it. You may be right about YOUR household rubbish.

However, the solid waste stream for Hawai`i County can more accurately be thought of as a material stream with many diverse elements. Once you put all the leftovers from homes and businesses together it’s a decidedly mixed bag – of trash.

And dealing with it isn’t a simple matter. We need a comprehensive approach that will include recycling/reuse, waste reduction, and landfilling of residual waste.

Federal regulations prohibit hazardous waste and all liquids from being put into the landfill. Liquids are prohibited because of their potential to seep into the ground water and contaminate it. That is why all new landfills must be lined.

State regulations prohibit scrap metal such as cars and white goods (refrigerators and other appliances) from being put in the landfill.

Besides federal and state regulations, we are fortunate that we have a blueprint to guide us in our efforts. After extensive community input island-wide, the County Council adopted the Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan in 2002. This state-mandated plan is our guide to what the people of Hawai‘i County want to do with their rubbish.

In response to the community’s support and desire for increased recycling, the County is working to develop community recycling centers. Funding sources for community recycling centers would ordinarily come from the landfill tipping fees and County property taxes. Recently though, we have received quite a bit of help through two sources.

The first is Senator Daniel Inouye's office and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA funded the enhancement of the Solid Waste Transfer Station at Kea`au to provide major recycling opportunities. The next EPA-funded upgrade will be at Kealakehe (probably by this fall) and the third one will be at Waimea (probably late in 2005).

The other source of funds is the Community Development Block Grants through the County Housing and Community Development Office. These funds will provide convenient recycling dropoff sites at up to five more of our transfer stations.

We have also gotten help through the EPA for cleaning up our old dumpsites. The EPA will be doing a site assessment first in Hilo, in preparation for upgrades to the Hilo Transfer Station and our aggressive recycling programs. The Kealakehe Transfer Station will be next.

Ultimately we need to assess all 21 of our transfer stations, which were generally sited at historical community open-dump sites. Once the site is assessed for any possible contamination, we will remediate as necessary.

Recently the County issued a Request for Information on waste reduction technologies, and is evaluating the responses now. It will take quite a bit of research to come up with the best solid waste solutions for our island. Since we live in the middle of the largest body of water on our planet and we are the most rural island in our State, this means transportation issues play a major part in our decisions. It also means that the costs of goods and services can be a different percentage of a product than it would be elsewhere. We seek solutions from diverse locations and then customize them for our island’s needs, population and location.

The County working with the Federal Economic Development Agency (EDA) on a West Hawai`i Resource Park. There are 20 acres at the Pu`uanahulu landfill site that are set aside for resource recovery or other ancillary solid waste functions.

West Hawai`i has some logistical issues: Kawaihae Harbor to the north, Pu`uanahulu landfill in between and the existing Transfer Station/scrap metal yard and greenwaste processing at Kealakehe to the south.

In addition, there are community concerns that require smart, logical and sensitive treatment. EDA appears willing to help us with research, fact-finding, and planning for this area, and we're not shy in asking for financial assistance to leverage County funding. We will search for any and all outside funding possibilities, especially from our Federal Government.

We at Hawai`i County have organized and hosted two Solid Waste brainstorming and visioning retreats, with the other Counties participating in some way or another, on some of the high-technology issues related to solid waste. There is much more to be done, as the issue of Solid Waste affects all of us in so many ways.

We are planning for a third session again in 2005, though we haven't picked out the dates or place at this time.

In case you’d like to know what we’re up to next, feel free to write us at cohdem@interpac.net  and we’ll put you on our email list for updated information about that loveable topic called Solid Waste. Thanks for listening.

(go to Contents)

The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), with assistance from the Hawai`i Department of Health and Hawai`i County, will remove several thousand cubic yards of contaminated soil and debris from the Hilo Bayfront area near Ponahawai Street. Most of this soil and debris are wrapped and buried in a plastic cell (the "burrito") near the flood control levee which was built as the Alenaio Stream Flood Control Project. The soil and debris were left over following the destruction of the Hilo Gas Company in the 1960 Tsunami. Two community meetings will be held to discuss the upcoming removal project and answer any questions the public may have.

Following the tsunami of 1960, the State of Hawai`i designated this Bayfront area a "Tsunami Buffer Zone" and created a recreation area. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers then constructed a concrete flood control channel, retention pond and levee to help prevent the flooding of downtown Hilo during major storms. The retention pond and levee were built on the former Hilo Gas Company property.

It was during this construction that the Corps discovered contamination from gas company operations just below the ground surface. The contamination was primarily volatile and semi-volatile polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Volatile means the substance readily transfers to the air. PAHs come from gas manufacturing processes and can be potentially harmful to human health. The Corps attempted to bio-remediate the waste using natural processes to destroy the hazardous components. However, this procedure was not totally effective. The waste was then dug up and encapsulated in a plastic "burrito" near the flood control levee. Besides the waste in the "burrito," additional similar contamination from the Hilo Gas Company operations has since been found next to the retention pond. Because this area is susceptible to tsunamis and flooding which could expose and spread the contamination, it is important to remove the hazard. In August 2003, the Department of Health requested help from EPA in removing the waste.

EPA’s plan for eliminating the threat posed by this contamination is to remove the waste that is in the "burrito". As part of this effort, DOH will remove the waste next to the retention pond. EPA will then re-grade the affected side of the levee to maintain the proper slope for flood control. The removed soil and debris will be transported to and used at the West Hawai`i Sanitary Landfill at Pu’uanahulu, the only landfill on the island permitted to handle such waste. A new municipal waste cell at the landfill is being prepared, and the waste from the "burrito" project will serve as the initial layer of "select waste" required for the new cell. This will reduce the County’s cost relative to preparing the cell for receipt of the County’s municipal waste.

EPA removal actions such as this are a quick and effective means of dealing with this type of situation. This Hawai`i Island Burrito project should take approximately three to four weeks from setup to completion. The anticipated start date for mobilizing staff and equipment is the week of July 12, 2004. While the work is going on, the public may see workers wearing protective clothing. This does not mean the public is at risk from the site or cleanup activities. As part of the site health and safety plan, workers must protect themselves due to regular and close proximity to contaminated substances.

People in the area may experience some nuisance factors associated with this type of project. That may include periodic odor from some of the contaminants at the site that may smell like mothballs. EPA will do all it can to minimize the odor using a non-hazardous foam. Air monitoring will be ongoing to ensure that potentially hazardous levels of contamination do not go off site. In addition, there will be some equipment noise associated with the digging and removing of dirt. Trucks transporting the material to the landfill at Pu’uanahulu may also create some inconvenience for the three to four weeks of the operation.

To hear more about the Hawai`i Island Burrito project, ask questions or voice concerns, please attend either of the following two meetings:

If you have questions or concerns about the Hawai`i Island Burrito project or the public meetings, please contact any of the people listed below:

Craig and Vicki can also be reached toll-free at: (800) 231-3075. Please leave a message and your call will be returned.

EPA Press Officer
(808) 541-2711
higuchi.dean@epa.gov

State On-Scene Coordinator
(808) 586-4249
mcripps@eha.health.state.hi.us

Mayor’s Office
(808) 961-8223
cohexec@interpac.net

(go to Contents)

The County of Hawaii Fire Department held their commencement exercises for their 29th Firefighter Recruit Class on Friday, June 18 at the University of Hawaii Campus Center.

The new Firefighters are Derek Awong, Christopher Gomes, Daimen Hisashima, Bran Liko Keopuhiwa, Carl Pires, Jeffrey Trainer, David Stimac, Robert Wall, and David Wills.

They underwent 11 months of intensive training. The first 5½ months involved fire and rescue training that included a nationally-recognized fire science curriculum, wildland fire training, rescue operations familiarization, lifeguard certification training, and driver training. The second 5 1/2 months was spent at the Emergency Medical Services Training center where the firefighters became certified Emergency Medical Technicians Basic and Intermediate.

During this time, they also spent nine weeks on clinical rotations through Central, Kawailani, Keaau, and Pahoa Fire Stations on the ambulance, as well at the Emergency Room, Obstetrics, and Intensive Care Unit at Hilo Medical Center.

At the ceremonial dinner, Mayor Harry Kim encouraged the graduates: "Do not forget how you feel tonight. Do not forget the pride that you feel because of what you just went through, and the privilege of being part of this select group."

Fire Chief Darryl Oliveira praised them for their hard work throughout the rigorous physical and academic training demands. He said the recruit class were team players, and described them as was well-disciplined, respectful, enthusiastic, patient, intelligent and mature. He told the recruits, "You have a lot to be proud of. Congratulations on a job well done, keep up the good work, and continue to make us proud."

Class leader David Stimac addressed his classmates saying: "I couldn’t have asked for a better group of guys to go through fire training with. I would trust any of you with my life, and hope you feel the same of me. You are my teammates, my friends, and my brothers."

Neil Brazier, chairman of the Hawaii County Fire Commission; lead instructor at EMS, Carol AhYo; and Recruit Training Officer Glen Honda also spoke at the graduation ceremonies.

The new Firefighters have received their first station assignments at Central, Honoka’a, Waimea, Kailua, and Captain Cook Fire Stations.

(go to Contents)

The Water Board of the County of Hawai‘i will hold a public hearing on a proposed rule to be added to the Department of Water Supply’s Rules and Regulations.

The topic of the proposed rule is the acceptance of existing private water systems. The proposed rule lists situations in which the Water Board will not accept existing private water systems, as well as listing all of the requirements that must be met in order for the Water Board to accept private water systems.

Copies of the proposed rule, which would be added as Section 4-13, are available for review at the Department of Water Supply’s main office during normal work hours. A copy of the proposed rule will be available for a nominal fee, including postage.

Requests for copies may be made either in writing, or by calling either Doreen Shirota or Denise Gaylord at (808) 961-8050. The mailing address for Department of Water Supply is 345 Kekuanaoa Street, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720.

Members of the public may submit data in writing prior to the hearing to the Chairman of the Water Board of the County of Hawai‘i. Submissions made to the Chairman prior to the date of the hearing shall be mailed or delivered to the Chairman in care of the Department of Water Supply, 345 Kekuanaoa Street, Hilo, Hawai‘i 96720.

Members of the public may also submit their data, views or arguments orally to the Water Board at the hearing.

If accommodation or auxiliary aid and/or services (i.e., sign language, interpreter, large print) is required to participate in the hearing, please call 961-8050.

(go to Contents)

Date: Wednesday, July 28, 2004

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 NOON

Place: Waimea Community Center, 65-1260 Kawaihae Rd, Kamuela

1.    Call to order

2.    Approval of minutes of May 26, 2004 meeting

3. Approval of addendum and/or supplemental agenda

4. Statements from the public on items listed on agenda

• Correspondence/reports/discussion

• Director’s Report (including updates on SORT Station)

• Solid Waste Division Report (including update on life of Hilo landfill, C&D landfill restrictions, and Kahuku Transfer Station)

• Wastewater Division Report (including update on proposed Sewer Connection Fee Program)

5. Unfinished Business

• Discussion and recommendation on Department of Environmental Management Rules

• Discussion and recommendation on Ordinance for the Department of Environmental Management to establish a process for enforcement and for appeals to be heard by the Environmental Management Commission and alternate ordinance for appeals to be heard by the Board of Appeals

• Discussion and recommendation on proposed Capacity Assessment Fee Ordinance (revised)

• Discussion and recommendation on Mandatory Recycling for Haulers

6. New Business

• Election of Officers

7. Future Agenda Items

8. Announcements

• August meeting cancelled.

• September 22, 2004, 9 a.m. – 12 noon, Kona Police Department Conference Room, 74-5221 Queen Ka`ahumanu Highway, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

• October meeting cancelled.

• November 23, 2004, 9 a.m. – 12 noon, Liquor Control Conference Room, Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Hilo, Hawai`i 96720

• December meeting cancelled.

9. Adjournment

If you require an accommodation or auxiliary aid and/or services to participate in this meeting (i.e. sign language interpreter, large print), please call 961-8083.

(go to Contents)

• Are you having problems flushing your toilet?

• Do you get zapped when you unplug something?

• Are you required to hook up to the County sewer system?

The answer may be the Residential Emergency Repair Program (RERP) from the County of Hawai`i Office of Housing and Community Development.

The Residential Emergency Repair Program (RERP) is a 3% simple interest deferred loan program for low- and moderate-income families. The loan is for emergency home repairs.

Principal and interest payments are deferred for 15 years, at such time full payment is due and payable. The loan amount is a minimum of $2,500 to a maximum $25,000. The members of the household cannot make more than 80% of the median income.

For a detailed brochure on the Residential Emergency Repair Program, visit co.hawaii.hi.us/directory/dir_housing and click on Residential Emergency Repair Program.

For further information or an application, call the Office of Housing and Community Development at 961-8379.

(go to Contents)

Or call our 24/7 Job Hotline: 961-8618

Click on employment opportunities to download all of the forms.

(go to Contents)

Please join us for a fun, interactive and informative two-Part workshop on basic home composting. The first half of our workshop will focus on backyard composting. The second will discuss worm composting. A free Presto home composter will be given to each family participating, while supplies last.

Two worm bins with worms will also be given away. Workshop fee:$10/adult.

Workshops sponsored by Recycle Hawaii and the County of Hawaii.

Please call the InfoLine for more information: 961-2676 or www.recyclehawaii.org . The Kea`au Transfer Station is the driveway next to the Humane Society on the Pahoa-Kea`au Highway.

Space is limited. Register by calling 959-7257 or by email: piper@HawaiiRainbowWorms.com 

This interactive and fun workshop will explore worm composting in Hawaii. Composting with worms is an easy and fun way to save money and turn your kitchen scraps into garden "gold" or free fishing bait.

Highlights include a "How To" demonstration on setting up your very own Worm Condo, included FREE with workshop. The Worm Condo comes with native Hawaiian compost starter worms, bedding, instructions and checklist.

We will also explore basic worm management, harvesting methods and more.

Workshop cost: $35.

Limited class availability, so please register today by calling 959-7257.

(go to Contents)

Chronic drug house activity is a major cause of neighborhood decay and most drug house activity is on rental property. The Landlord Training Program is designed to help owners and property managers keep illegal drug activity and other criminal activity off their property.

Date: July 19, 2004 at the Outrigger Waikoloa

Cost: $20 per person (due at time of registration)

Effective property management can have a major impact on the health of a community. There are legitimate techniques which can be used to stop the spread of drug activity on rental property. The training includes:

• The role of the landlord
• Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
• Applicant Screening
• Rental Agreements
• Ongoing Management
• Resident Involvement/Community Building
• Warning Signs of Drug Activity
• Crisis Resolution
• Working with the Police
• Section 8 (Subsidized Housing)

Included with the training is a comprehensive manual, complete with applicable laws and references.

This course has been approved for six hours of Hawaii Real Estate CE elective credits (two elective CE credits). Additional fee: $15.

(go to Contents)

This workshop will share current research findings on the effects of prenatal methamphetamine exposure on infants and children. The speaker, Dr. Chris Derauf, will discuss these findings vis a vis how child development is affected by toxic exposures, and by both supportive and challenging environmental conditions. The presentation will include strategies for helping children beset by significant challenges very early in life.

Dr. Chris Derauf is a pediatrician who serves on the staff of the Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women and Children (KMCWC) in Honolulu. He is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the John A. Burns School of Medicine at the University of Hawai‘i, and Director of the UH Pediatric Residency Program and the Koko‘okolu Community Pediatrics Fellowship.

His research and publications focus on preventive health topics, as well as alcohol and drug use during pregnancy. He is the Hawai‘i Principal Investigator for a National Institutes of Health study of the developmental consequences of prenatal methamphetamine exposure.

Free parking on campus during the summer.

Admission is free. However, prior registration is required because space is limited. To register, call 974-4291.

For more information, contact Department of Health’s Malama A Ho`opili Pono Project at 974-4291 or vmstoddard@earthlink.net  

Co-sponsored by the Malama A Ho`opili Pono Consortium and the University of Hawai`i at Hilo BSN Program.

(go to Contents)

Our next islandwide Hugs Not Drugs IV sign waving is set for July 20 from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. This time we'll be featuring a sign contest for our school kids and prizes will be given to 4 winners around the island.

The debut Hugs Not Drugs Sign Contest is for kids in grades K-12. Entries should include the words "Hugs Not Drugs". Winning signs will be colorful, creative, and original.

1) The words "Hugs Not Drugs" have to be on the sign.

2) Colorful - three or more colors (black and white are counted as one of the colors).

3) Creative - Use what you know and put it on paper in a unique format.

4) Focus on "originality"

5) You must be a school kid in a grade K-12.

The contest entry deadline is July 20th. All entries will be put on the www.solutionsislandhawaii.com web site for all to vote for the top 4 winners. The voting will go for two weeks from the date of posting on the website.

To see our flyer click on www.solutionsislandhawaii.com . The following sign waving sites are on board; if you wish to add to the list or for further information contact Lil Beaufrere at 325-0039 or email konalil@hawaii.rr.com

Kailua Village-Kona 4-5:30: Palani and Queen Ka`ahumanu. Info: Jan Rae (325-4991) janiamone@aol.com

Kailua Village-Kona 3-5pm: Entrance of University of Nations on Kuakini Hwy. Info: Eva Fillekes (937-0548) or konaoutreach@uofnkona.edu  

Kealakekua 3-6pm: Mauka of Konawaena Elementary School. Info: Chris Matsuoka (987-4510) or paikona@yahoo.com

Keauhou Shopping Center 4-6pm: Ali`i Drive Entrance. Info: Mara Amone (324-6000) or rohanahalehi@aol.com

Ka`u - Na`alehu 3-5pm: Highway 11- Methodist Church. Info: Colleen Gundakers (929-9308) or gundakers@msn.com

Napoopoo 3-5pm: Napoopoo & Puuhonua Rds Info: Louise Winn (640-1454) or swinn@hawaii.rr.com

Ocean View 3-5pm: Hwy 11 between Hawaii and Lehua Roads. Info: Bob Barry (929 8784) or barry@hialoha.com

Pahala 3-6pm: In Town. Info: Carla Andrade (928-6268) or kauroyal@gte.net

Waikoloa 4-6pm: Paniolo Drive near Waikoloa Village Marketplace. Info: Jan Sears 883-0583 & Laurie Jo Rogers 883-1018

Waimea 3-5:30pm: Historic Church Row Park. Info: Angela Thomas (990-6754) or act216@hotmail.com 

Hilo Bay Front Chevron – Ironworks 3-6pm. Info: Char Merritt (937-2124) or csnm@hotmail.com  or Henry Wana (938-5750)

Hilo: Kanoelehua Ave. fronting Kamaaina Nissan 4-6pm. Info: Jay Ignacio (969-0224) jignacio@hei.com  or Sue Akim Seu (969-0127) sakimseu@hei.co

Hilo KTA Superstore Hwy 11 4-6pm. Rotary Clubs of East Hawai`i. Info: Nancy Cabral (935-4152) or ncabral@daylum.com

Honoka`a 3:30-5:30pm : T Kaneshiro Store corner. Info: Phyllis Tarail & Joel Cohen (775-1306) or waipiohi@interpac.net

Honoka`a 3-5pm: Kings Chapel across from Tex Drive In. Info: Donna Acdal (775-0225) or lighthouseatcamp8@yahoo.com

Kea`au 2:30-5pm: Entrance to Shipment Park. Info: Kehau Sloan (960-3065) or kehau@turquoise.net

Laupahoehoe 3-5:00pm: Train Museum. Info: Lucille Chung (934-0203) or lchung@qlcc.org

O`okala: Intersection fronting O`okala Gym. Info: Valarie Poindexter (962-0056) or valariepoindexter@msn.com

Pahoa 3-6pm: Pahoa High School and at the Welcome to Pahoa Town Sign. Info: Randy Like (982-9555) or kaipolike@hotmail.com

Pahoa 4-5pm: At intersection of Hwy 130 & Leilani Ave. Info: Roberta Hole (965-0330) or donutlady@intergate.com 

Papa`aloa 3-5:30pm: At the 24 mile marker. Info: Lucille Chung (934-0203) or lchung@qlcc.org

Puna: Entrance Ainaloa Subdivision Hwy 130. 3-5:30pm Info: Audrey Eskelson (982-5636) or resehi@msn.com

Volcano Village 3:30-5:30pm: Between Akasuka Store Hwy 11 - entrance of Golf Course. Info: Betsy Mitchell (967-7209)

(go to Contents)

The U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) presents a free two-day grant writing workshop. This event is hosted by the Office of Housing & Community Development and will feature Cheryl Appline, Program Manager with HUD’s Center for Faith-Based & Community Initiatives, Washington, D.C.

Learn how to prepare a COMPETITIVE grant application.

Topics will include:

• How to access government funds

• Grant proposal writing techniques

• HUD’s grant programs

• Grant Management

Hilo: July 26 - 27, 2004
8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Hilo Hawaiian Hotel (Mokuola Room)

Kona: July 29 - 30, 2004
8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel (Kamakahonu Room)

(Registration check-in: 8:00 - 8:30 a.m.)

Advanced registration is required. SPACE IS LIMITED – First come, first served.

To register, contact Ramona Mullahey at 522-8185, x249 or ramona_mullahey@hud.gov

Information required for registration:

• Name

• Organization

• Mailing address

• Phone number

• Email address

Limit of two (2) persons per organization. Confirmation of registration will be by Email. Please bring confirmation notice to training workshop. Bring your own lunch.

(go to Contents)

Back by popular demand! High-quality free mulch is now available at the new public pick-up area adjacent to the Kealakehe Transfer Station. The access to the new mulch pick-up area is directly across the street from the transfer station chutes. Residents may self-load mulch at the site from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., seven days a week. Bring a pitchfork and help yourself.

Plenty of free mulch is also available at the Hilo Transfer Station which is open 7 days a week, 7:00am-5:00pm. The green waste pick-up and drop-off area is just past the entrance to the transfer station chutes on the right-hand side of the road.

The County of Hawai`i’s Department of Environmental Management sponsors the free mulch program. At this time, loading assistance for small vehicles is available only at the Hilo location and fees range from $10-$40 depending on vehicle size.

If you want to arrange for a large truckload to be delivered to your residence, business, or farm, from either the Hilo or Kona green waste processing sites, please call the Big Island Recycling representative at (808) 306-1876 to make those arrangements.

For more information about this program, please contact the County’s Recycling Coordinator at 961-8942.

(go to Contents)

The College of Continuing Education and Community Service (CCECS) at the University of Hawaii at Hilo is recruiting for 4 Senior College Coordinators. The Coordinators are to extend continuing education programs of the university for adults over 45 years of age to outreach sites throughout the Big Island.

A from the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute will fund part-time coordinators for the three years of funding.

For more details or to apply online, go to: www.rcuh.com   .

Click on "Employment"; then click on "Job Announcments/apply for a job". The Job ID is #24344, Senior College Coordinators.

Application deadline is July 22, 2004.

For more information, call Margaret Haig, CCECS at 974-7664.

(go to Contents)

The public is cordially invited to attend free educational presentations about ocean issues in Kona and Waimea in July and August.

Dr. Bill Walsh, State Division of Aquatic Resources, West Hawaii, will provide the almost-final data results of a five year research study of protected areas along the West Hawaii coast. This study, carried out by UH Hilo and DAR provides insights never before recorded. Are colorful fish returning? The answer is fascinating. Sponsored by UH Sea Grant and the Malama Kai Foundation. For further information call 329-2861.

Dr. Bob Palmer, former Bureau Chief of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, will share a manager's experience when gill nets were banned in Florida. Dr. Robert Muller, Research Assistant, Stock Assessment and Modeling Group, Florida Marine Research Institute, will report on how the fish populations were effected after gill nets were banned. Sponsored by UH Sea Grant and the Malama Kai Foundation. For further information call 329-2861.

Our Hawaiian seals’ biology, the problems they face in recovery, actions taken to prevent further declines, and past and expected future population trends in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands will be presented by Dr. Bill Gilmartin. He will also discuss what is going on with monk seals on the inhabited islands. Gilmartin initiated the monk seal recovery program in 1980 and managed it until 1996. He is currently a member of the Hawaiian Monk Sea Recovery Team and the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve Advisory Council. Free, sponsored by UH Sea Grant and the Malama Kai Foundation. For further information call 329-2861.

(go to Contents)

In conjunction with the Third Annual Kalae Iki Baseball Camp, July 25-27 at the Kailua-Kona Baseball Field, several of the participating coaches will hold a coaching clinic on Saturday, July 24 at the Hapuna Prince Hotel.

Among the coaches making presentations will be Gary Adams (UCLA), Mark Marquess (Stanford), Lindsey Meggs (Chico St.), Dave Esquer (California), Jason Green (UCLA), Tom Kunis (Stanford) and former Major League stars Doug DeCinces and Tim Leary.

This 4-hour free clinic will begin at 10 a.m. in the Hau Lehua Room.

Reservations are requested by calling Joey Estrella at UH-Hilo, 974-7700. Each attendee will receive a booklet of clinic notes.

This clinic, along with the Kalae Iki Youth Baseball Camp, is a result of the generous sponsorship of the foundations of Jack Gifford and of Betty Kanuha, and the County of Hawaii Parks & Recreation Division.

Third Annual Kalae Iki Baseball Camp in Kona July 25-27

Boys and girls aged 7-17 years wishing to participate in the Kalae Iki camp may register at the following County of Hawaii Parks & Recreation sites: Permits Office at Aquatics Center in Kailua-Kona, Auntie Sally’s Luau House in Hilo, Waikoloa Park (Elem. School), and Waimea Park (Parker Gym).

All clinics are free of charge.

For further information call: Joey Estrella at 974-7700

(go to Contents)

Renowned chefs, delicious cuisine and entertainment will star at the sixth annual Evening in Paradise, a fundraiser for Hawaii Island United Way on Saturday, July 24 at The Fairmont Orchid from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

This is the largest single-event fundraiser for the HIUW, and is held under starry summer skies at The Fairmont Orchid’s oceanfront lawn at Turtle Pointe. The price for An Evening in Paradise is $75 per adult; $40 for children ages five to 12. Children under five are free.

Tickets can be purchased at the HIUW website at www.HawaiiUnitedWay.org  ; The Fairmont Orchid’s concierge desk; Waikoloa Village Market; KTA Super Stores in Kailua-Kona, Keauhou, Waimea and Puainako; First Hawaiian Bank branches in Kailua-Kona, Kamuela and Waikoloa; Kamuela Liquors, Kona Wine Market; and Border’s in Hilo and Kailua-Kona, or by contacting the Hilo United Way Office at 935-6393.

Lyman Medeiros, a popular Big Island radio personality and television host, and Karen Kay, KBIG’s afternoon-drive radio personality, will emcee the event. Homegrown Hilo "baby-boomers" band Mid-Life Crisis will liven up the evening with nostalgic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s.

Funds raised through this event will help 33 participating agencies and numerous donor-choice agencies that provide health and human services island wide. Last year, An Evening in Paradise raised more than $42,000 for HIUW. The overall campaign goal for 2004 is $1,470,000. For more information about HIUW and its agencies, visit www.HawaiiUnitedWay.org  .

This year, the following Big Island chefs will offer mouthwatering creations: The Fairmont Orchid’s Chef James Babian, Sushi Master Norio Yamamoto and Pastry Chef Linda Rodriguez; Chef Michael Fennelly of Restaurant Kaikodo; Daniel Thiebaut of Daniel Thiebaut Restaurant; Merriman’s Chef Mike Halpin; Seafood Bar’s Chef Matthew Small; Kawaihae Harbor Grill’s Chef Aaron Barfield; Chef Etsuji Umezu of Hualalai Resort; Chef Edwin Goto of Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows; Chef Graham Quayle of the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai; Chef Piet Wigmans of the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel and Mauna Kea Resort; Waikoloa Beach Marriott’s Chef Miles Togikawa; and Chef Wilhelm Pirngruber of the Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort.

For special An Evening in Paradise kama’aina room rates, please call The Fairmont Orchid at 885-2000 or toll free, 1-800-845-9905.

For reservations please call 1-800-441-1414, or visit us online at www.fairmont.com  .

(go to Contents)

Join the celebration of The Arc of Hilo’s 50^th Anniversary on Sunday, July 25, 2004 from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at The Arc of Hilo, 1099 Waianuenue Ave. (across from Hilo Medical Center).

Featuring:

* The 12th Annual "Forever Young" Fashion Show

* a Succulent Prime Rib Buffet by Nani Mau Gardens

* an Exciting Silent Auction featuring artwork by prominent local artists

Tickets are $30 per person, of which $5 is tax-deductible.

The Arc of Hilo has received news that Melveen Leed has had to cancel her appearance at The Arc of Hilo’s 50th Anniversary Celebration on July 25th due to ill health. The diva suffered a serious health incident a few weeks ago while performing aboard the ship Pride of Aloha in California. Ms. Leed is now back on Oahu now where she is being attended by her personal physician, however she has been restricted from all travel.

There will still be plenty of exciting entertainment on the 25th, including the Arc's 12th annual Fashion Show, a silent auction featuring works by prominent local artists, and a magnificent prime rib buffet lunch. Please call 935-8535 extension 10 for tickets or further information.

For tickets call The Arc of Hilo, 935-8535 ext. 10.

For more information contact: Charmaine Ka-ipo, The Arc of Hilo, Phone 935-8535 ext. 17.

(go to Contents)

Showcasing the splendor of Polynesian cultural tradition, the Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association (HCRA) and the Kekua Foundation take great pride in hosting the 11th International Va‘a Federation (IVF) World Sprints Championship at Hilo Bay in Hilo August 9-15, 2004.

The World Sprints Championship is the foremost event on the international outrigger canoe racing calendar. More than 2,000 participant paddlers are expected, with 5,000 or more spectators and worldwide media exposure.

Entrants are expected from as many as 22 countries.

Founded by the Tahitians, the first World Va’a Sprints was held in 1984 at Newport Beach, California.

During the August 9-15 events, races and practice will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily, at Bayfront Beach Park with three evening events from 7:00 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Edith Kanakaole Multipurpose Tennis Stadium.

According to organizers, Hilo provides excellent sprint conditions, with its protected harbor and races running parallel to the shore. Viewers will be able to watch races from start to finish.

Based on a commitment to encourage and preserve outrigger canoe racing and to promote international Ho‘okuku. (competition), the organizers seek to present a unique event that is rich in meaning, filled with activities designed to perpetuate, enhance and raise the sport to extraordinary, memorable, even legendary levels.

(go to Contents)

The Waimea Community Association will sponsor a non-partisan candidate debate on Thursday, September 9 from 5:30 p.m at the YMCA’s Kahilu Town Hall.

The debate will feature candidates for all major public offices in the area in preparation for the coming elections. No charge to attend Waimea Community meetings. Membership not required but recommended.

For further information call: John Ray (885-5875).

(go to Contents)

The Arc of Hilo is hosting training for family members and Health and Human Service Professionals who assist families raising children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) or Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND).

On the following day, September 15, a workshop will be held to provide "Train the Trainer" instruction on FAS/ARND for those interested in training others. Participants are encouraged to attend both days if interested in training others. Participants will be given PowerPoint slides of the curriculum, the curriculum and handouts, as well as instruction on how best to share this information.

Both training session are being provided by the Arc of the United States, with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If you have questions about this training, contact Cindy Robinson at (808) 935-8535 ext 22 or email her at crobinson@hiloarc.org

(go to Contents)

(All project schedules based on weather permitting.)

Where/Location: South Hilo District - East Kawili Street; Kanoelehua Avenue to Manono Street.

What: Maintain centerlines, stoplines and raised-pavement-markers.

Where/Location: South Hilo District - Kulaimano Road.

What: Maintain raised-pavement-markers.

Where/Location: South Hilo District - Chin Chuck Road.

What: Maintain raised-pavement-markers.

Where/Location: South Hilo District – Waianuenue Avenue; Akolea Road to Carvalho Park.

What: Maintain raised-pavement-markers.

Where/Location: South Hilo District – Waianuenue Avenue; Akolea Road to Carvalho Park, Puueo Street and Iliahi Street.

What: Maintain raised-pavement-markers and blackout exposed centerline markings.

(go to Contents)

A driver must concentrate on the road, stay alert and drive defensively.

• Concentration -- Operating a vehicle safely demands that the driver concentrate on driving. The person should be rested, calm and not under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

• Alertness -- One of the greatest hazards of roadway driving is drowsiness or "highway hypnosis". Lack of sleep or fatigue impact your ability to safely drive your vehicle. When taking a long trip, avoid drowsiness by stopping frequently to drink coffee, exercise or nap. Exercise your eyes by reading road signs or shifting the focus of your eyes to different parts of the roadway. Make sure you are properly rested.

• Defensive Driving -- Plan ahead for the unexpected. Always be prepared to react to the other driver. Do not expect the other driver to do what you think he or she should do. Do not think you know what he or she is going to do. If you cannot avoid a crash, remain calm and try to choose the least dangerous situation. For example, running into a ditch is less dangerous than a head-on collision. Also, your chances of survival are greater if your vehicle is in good mechanical condition.

(go to Contents)

Lane Closures for Fiber-Optic Cable Project

Motorists are advised of the following lane closures and work locations as contractors work on installing a conduit system for Sandwich Isles Communications in the Kaumana area.

From Monday, July 12th through Friday, July 16th, Willocks Construction will be boring and trenching in the following areas:

• Along Kaumana Drive between Pu‘uhina and Ekaha Streets – Lane Diversions

• Along Kilua Road from Kaumana Drive – Lane Closures and Lane Diversions

• Along Kaumana Drive at the intersection of Ainako Avenue – Lane Diversions

The work will start at 8:00 a.m. and continue until 3:30 p.m., weather permitting.

Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes (Waianuenue Avenue/Akolea Road) to avoid traffic delays/congestion and allow for extra travel time. Contractors are in their second week of work and estimate this project to be completed in November 2004.

For further information, contact Chuck Eckman (Resident Engineer), Mid State Consultants, at 640-9509.

Mahalo for your patience and cooperation.

(go to Contents)

We encourage everyone to use web-based calendar links. Please add your own events to the respective calendars so others can get the word and not conflict with your plans.

County of Hawaii: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/cgi-bin/webcal/webcal.pl
State of Hawaii: http://www.state.hi.us/calendars.htm
Hawaii Visitors and Conventions Bureau: http://calendar.gohawaii.com/
Hawaii.com: http://www.hawaii.com/live/
Alternative-Hawaii: http://www.alternative-hawaii.com/calendar.htm
Kamuela.com: http://kamuela.com/calendar/default.asp
Hawaii Nonprofit Community Events (HCF): http://www.hcf-hawaii.org/hcf/hcfg/comcal.jsp
Hawaii Public Radio: http://www.hawaiipublicradio.org/psa.htm
Hawaii Theatre Network: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hawaiitheatre
UH at Hilo Theatre Events: http://performingarts.net/Theatre/seasoncalendar/calendar.pl
Waikoloa Village: http://www.waikoloa.org/WVCalendar.html
Public School (click on your school): http://doe.k12.hi.us/calendars0203/index.htm
Hilo Downtown Improvement: Go to www.downtownhilo.com (click on Hilo Activity Guide, and follow directions on how to submit an event.) For information call Alice Moon at 933-9772.
Prince Kuhio Plaza: http://www.princekuhioplaza.com/html/Events.asp

(go to Contents)

(go to Contents)