300 ACRES BURNED IN KIHEI BRUSH FIRE

A brush fire burned 300 acres since it was first reported at 12:26 this (Sunday) afternoon. As of 8:30 tonight, the fire was not yet under control. The blaze burned vacant land located mauka of the Piilani Highway in South Maui.

Heavy smoke could be seen from Wailea as a brush fire burned 300 acres of vacant land several miles away in Kihei. Photo by Wendy OSHER.

45 firefighters were aided by 4 helicopters conducting water drops, 6 water tankers (provided by the County’s Public Works Department and Goodfellow Brothers Co.), and 6 bulldozers.

Deputy Fire Chief Robert Shimada called the work of the firefighters outstanding as they fought to protect the nearby homes. Shimada also credited the work of the heavy equipment operators who used the bulldozers to cut fire breaks to prevent the fire from spreading to a nearby subdivision located makai side of the area.

Maui County Public Information Officer, Mahina Martin, said the fire came approximately 200 yards to the nearest structures, but no structures were damaged and no injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire is undetermined and under investigation. No evacuations were necessary and no road were closed.

(By Wendy OSHER 2009; Photo by Wendy Osher 2009)

WAILUKU MAN INDICTED FOR ELECTRONIC ENTICEMENT OF A CHILD

The Attorney General’s office today indicted a Maui man for the 1^st degree Electronic Enticement of a Child.

37-year-old Chris Shizuo Mabe of Wailuku is accused of using the internet to solicit a law enforcement officer who he allegedly believed was a 14-year-old girl.

The Attorney General’s office issued a news release today saying Mabe indicated that he wanted to engage in sexual conduct with the “girl” during online chats, and had arranged to meet her at the Waikiki Aquarium.

Mabe was arrested when he arrived at the designated meeting place on May 24, 2009.  Mabe is considered innocent unless and until he is found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt by a judge or jury.

The investigation and arrest were carried out by members of the Hawaii Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Under state law, there is a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison for Internet predators found guilty of committing Electronic Enticement of a Child in the First Degree.

The Hawaii Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force has created a web site at www.hicac.com to help parents and young people recognize the dangers of the Internet and take protective measures.  The site contains safety tips and provides information on how to report suspected illegal Internet activity that targets children.

Anyone with information concerning possible Internet crimes against children is encouraged to call the Attorney General at (808) 586-1240.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009)

ROYAL ORDER ON MAUI PLANS KAMEHAMEHA DAY COMMEMORATION

The Royal Order of Kamehameha Kahehili Chapter IV on Maui will commemorate the birth of Kamehameha The Great on Thursday June 11, 2009.

The royal society annually observes the day with reverence paying special attention to the significance of Kamehameha’s role in Hawaiian history.

The march down Kaahumanu Avenue is a procession as opposed to the celebratory parades held across the state.

The march begins at 9 a.m. at the main entrance of Maui Community College, with the procession to head in the Paia bound direction, crossing the Kahului Beach Road Intersection, and ending at Ho’aloha park.

Our crews were on hand during the 2008 event and captured the preceding footage:

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009; VIDEO CREDITS:  Wendy Osher News 06/11/08 Kamehameha Day in Kahului, Maui. Produced by Wendy Osher and Frank W Pulaski III Written by Wendy Osher Camera and Edited by Frank W Pulaski III )

MAUI COUNCIL PASSES 2010 BUDGET UNANIMOUSLY ON 2ND & FINAL READING

The Maui County Council unanimously passed the FY2010 budget on second and final reading this morning.  The budget is $8.8 million less than the Mayor’s $573 million proposal, which translates to a 1.5% difference.

Budget Chair Joe Pontanilla discusses the TAT impact on the county budget during a public hearing in Lahaina. File photo by Wendy Osher

Budget Chair Joe Pontanilla described the budget as austere and tight for both county departments and nonprofits, but also noted the flexibility presented by the program budget.

“In a program budget, the departments have the option of using funds from vacancies to fund operational needs, including filling vacant positions in situations where the Council reduced the funding,” said Pontanilla.

With $12.5 million in vacancies throughout the county, and additional funding in fringe benefits, Pontanilla said the county already has $21 million in funds appropriated within departments for vacant positions.  Pontanilla noted that the council is not deleting any of the current equivalent personnel, but rather reducing funding for vacant positions.

With amendments already hammered out during first reading two weeks ago, the budget passed in less than an hour with all council members casing 9 ayes in support.

Although she supported the budget, Councilmember Gladys Baisa, was the only one to do so with reservations.   Baisa expressed concern over funding cuts to services within the Department of Parks & Recreation and the Department of Fire and Public Safety saying, “I’m afraid there’s only so much we can cut before it becomes diminishing returns.”  At the same time, she voted in support of the budget with a “margin of confidence” in the work and thought put into the budget by the committee chair.

The committee held 22 meetings in the council Chamber over a six week period to discuss the Mayor’s proposed budget.  The members also held eight district meetings to receive public testimony on the budget from residents throughout the county.

“Should the Administration find that it cannot operate with this budget,” Pontanilla said, “the Mayor has the option of proposing a budget amendment to recognize additional revenue or reallocate funds.”

“I feel we acted cautiously, judiciously and responsibly in bringing about a fiscally prudent budget,” said Councilmember Bill Medeiros who represents East Maui.

Similar remarks were made by fellow Councilmember Michael Victorino who described the budget as “fiscally prudent and lean.”

Lanai Councilmember Sol Kahoohalahala said despite the tough year, the circumstances gave the council the opportunity to look at ways of being innovative and creative.

Council Chair Danny Mateo meantime reflected upon the “sobering moment,” of being faced with the possibility of losing the county’s share of the Transient Accommodation Tax or TAT.  Although the state legislature failed to pass a measure relating the to the item, Mateo said, “The bottom line is we have made a change from business as usual.”

Councilmember Jo Anne Johnson of West Maui agreed that the 11^th hour decision on the TAT complicated the budget process.  In cutting and then restoring $4 million in road resurfacing funds, Johnson said, the council was diligent in assuring that provisions were added to address issues of accountability.

Fellow Councilmember Mike Molina said he does not expect the TAT issue to go away next year, summing up the approach to the 2010 budget in a few words:  “We did a lot of belt tightening; I guess you could say we’re on a diet.”

(By Wendy OSHER © 2009; file image by Wendy OSHER ©2009)

Related stories posted earlier:

COUNCIL UNANIMOUSLY PASSES BUDGET ON FIRST READING:

DEPARTMENT HEADS FIGHT FOR RESTORATION OF FUNDS IN FINAL BUDGET DELIBERATIONS

KULA HOSPITAL GEARS UP FOR 100TH ANNIVERSARY: SEEKS PHOTOS, STORIES FOR CENTENNIAL BOOK

Kula Hospital is gearing up to celebrate the 100th anniversary in 2010, and as part of that celebration, the Kula Hospital Auxiliary is sponsoring a 100th centennial coffee table book. Alberta Canha is the project coordinator.

Image of Kula Hospital courtesy: http://www.kula.hhsc.org/

“We are working on highlighting historical and current information, stories, and photos about Kula Hospital and the surrounding community,” said Canha. “We are asking for the community’s help in finding photos or stories from the last 100 years about the hospital. The oral history of our elders is so important to the project.  We are hoping that they will help us fill in much of the rich history of the past.”

The Kula Hospital was founded in 1910 by Dr. W. F. McConkey as a tuberculosis hospital that was called Kula Sanitorium or “Kula San.” Since that time the facility has undergone several transitions, even at one time serving the community as a general hospital with a surgery room, medical-surgical unit, and labor and delivery.   In 1976, the name of the facility was changed to Kula Hospital when the patient population was shifted to long-term care.

Kula Hospital has grown today to an extended acute care and long-term care facility.  It was recently awarded a 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the highest rating possible.

Dr. Patricia Brown, PhD is the author and editor of this book.  She is a psychologist, educator and researcher, working for 18 years with the California State Department of Education.

“Our goal is to complete and publish the book by the June 2010.  We will be seeking community donations and grants for this book project for this year and for 2010,” adds Canha.

Anyone with old photos or memorabilia from Kula Hospital or those who would like to make a donation, can contact Canha via email at: acanha@hhsc.org.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009; Placeholder image courtesy:  http://www.kula.hhsc.org/)

MAKENA WASTEWATER PLANT GOES SOLAR

The private sewage treatment plant at the Makena Resort is on its way to becoming the first net-zero energy wastewater treatment and reclamation plant in the state.

A blessing was held today as Dowling Company unveiled the 549 panel system.  A second phase of the project calls for an additional 498 photovoltaic panels which will produce 300,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.  That is expected to save the resort 175 barrels of oil each year.

Resort officials say the reclamation plant generates enough electricity to power 851 homes on Maui.  In oil savings, officials say it is the equivalent of removing 309 cars from Maui roadways.

The installation of the PV system is part of the Makena Resort’s strict green policy.  Future plans also call for the development of a 35-acre photovoltaic farm and a 12-acre organic farm.

The Hoku Solar PV panels are mounted on the plant’s ground, roof and as a canopy and was designed to shade clarifying basins and reduce algae growth.

The Makena Wastewater Reclamation Plant treats 100% of resort’s wastewater on-site, with a capacity of 750,000 gallons per day.  Wastewater is treated to the R-1 level before it is reclaimed and used for golf course irrigation.

In remarks during the blessing ceremony, Everett Dowling president of Dowling Company and managing partner of Makena Land LLC, which owns Makena Resort, stated:  “The great news about this reclamation plant, aside from offering enormous energy savings by utilizing the power of the sun, is that it provides nutirent-rich water for the golf courses in the resort without using one drop of potable water.”

Over 25 years, the plant is expected to offset more than 4,800 tons of carbon dioxide, 22 tons of sulphur dioxide and 8 tons of nitrous oxide emissions.  The facility also has the capacity to treat 750,000 gallons of water per day, using treated effluent to irrigate the company’s golf course.

(Posted by Wendy Osher © 2009)

PUBLIC INPUT SOUGHT ON SOLAR TELESCOPE ATOP HALEAKALA

Public meetings will be held in June to discuss the proposed Advanced Technology Solar Telescope atop Haleakala on Maui.  The National Science Foundation is considering funding the construction of the telescope that would be 142.8 feet high and 84 feet in diameter.  The solar telescope would be located atop the summit on lands managed by the University of Hawaii Institute for Astronomy.

The purpose of the device is to study solar magnetic activities and variability. Craig Foltz, NSF ATST Program Manager states “The proposed telescope would significantly help in furthering our understanding of solar activity and how it affects space weather.  This knowledge would aid us in understanding how space weather creates hazards for communications to and from satellites, and hazards to astronauts and air travelers.  It also would help us understand the role of solar activity on the Earth’s climate.”

Public hearings on the Supplemental Draft EIS are set for:

• Wednesday June 3^rd from 5-8 p.m. at the Cameron Center Auditorium in Wailuku.
• Thursday June 4^th from 7-10 p.m. at the Hannibal Tavares Community Center in Pukalani.

The public is also invited to participate in formal National Historic Preservation Act Section 106 consultation meetings for the proposed telescope project.  The purpose of these meetings is to address the preservation and protection of cultural, historic and archaeological resources within the project area.  The meetings are as follows:

• Monday, June 8 from 1-4 p.m. at the Kula Community Center
• Tuesday, June 9 from 10 .am. to 1 p.m. at the Haiku Community Center
• Wednesday, June 10 from 3-6 p.m. at the Pilina Building of the Maui Community College campus, multi-purpose room 310.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009)

RELATED STORY: PROPOSED TELESCOPE EIS RELEASED-SCIENTISTS SAY HALEAKALA IS ONLY SITE TO SATISFY GOALS (published: 5/13/2009 by Wendy Osher)

The State completed work on a Draft Environmental Impact Statement on a planned Advanced Technology Solar Telescope atop Haleakala.  The project is proposed for location at the High Altitude Observatory site and is subject to a 45 day public comment period.  There will be a series of hearings to discuss the findings in June.  The first meeting is set for June 3^rd at 5 p.m. at the Cameron Center Auditorium.  The Maui site is the preferred location under consideration by the National Science Foundation.

Haleakalā High Altitude Observatory Site Aerial Showing Existing Facilities. Photo Courtesy: National Science Foundation & Hawaii Department of Health

The proposed ATST Project would be located on State of Hawai’i land within the Conservation District on Pu’u (hill) Kolekole, near the summit of Haleakalā. Pu’u Kolekole is about 0.3 mile from the highest point, Pu’u Ula’ula (Red Hill) Overlook, which is in HALE. At an elevation of 10,023 feet, Haleakalā is one of the prime sites in the world for astronomical and space surveillance activities. The proposed ATST Project would be located within the 18.166-acre HO site at the summit of Haleakalā, County of Maui, Hawai’i, on approximately 0.86 acres of undeveloped land. The 0.86 acres includes the leveling area, buildings, and paved pads. The preferred site is east of the existing C. E. Kenneth Mees Solar Observatory (MSO) and will be referred to in the SDEIS as the Mees site. The alternative site would be a currently unutilized site within HO known as Reber Circle and will be referred to in the SDEIS as the Reber Circle site.

In 1961, an Executive Order (EO) by Governor Quinn set aside 18.166 acres of land on the summit of Haleakalā in a place known as Kolekole to be under the control and management of the UH Institute for Astronomy (IfA) for scientific purposes.

Officials say an unobstructed 4-meter (13-foot) diameter primary mirror combined with the latest in computer and optical technologies would give ATST sharper views of solar activities than any telescope on the ground, in space, or in the planning stages. After a two-year study that began with more than 70 possible worldwide observatory sites, the NSO team, in collaboration with representatives from the solar physics scientific community, found that Haleakalā is the only site satisfying their ATST science goals.

ATST Test Tower at Haleakalā High Altitude Observatory Site. Photo Courtesy: National Science Foundation & Hawaii Department of Health

A primary goal of the proposed ATST Project would be to help scientists understand the solar magnetic activities and variability that drive space weather and the hazards it creates for astronauts and air travelers, and for communications to and from satellites.

Another primary objective for the proposed ATST Project would be to resolve fundamental length and time scales of the basic physical processes governing variations in solar activity associated with climate changes on Earth. To meet this challenge, a team led by the NSO is developing the proposed ATST Project as the world’s largest optical solar telescope.

NEPA 45-day Public Comment Period and Hearings: May 8 to June 22, 2009.

• 1. June 3, 2009, Wednesday, 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Cameron Center Auditorium, Wailuku, Maui, HI
• 2. June 4, 2009, Thursday, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Hannibal Tavares Community Center, Room MHT #1, Pukalani, Maui, HI

National Historic Preservation Act Section 106 consultation meetings:

• 1. June 8, 2009, Monday, 1:00 to 4:00 pm Kula Community Center, E. Lower Kula Road, Kula, Maui
• 2. June 9, 2009, Tuesday, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Haiku Community Center, Hana Highway at Pilialoha Street, Haiku, Maui
• 3. June 10, 2009, Wednesday, 3:00 to 6:00 pm. Maui Community College, 310 W. Kaahumanu Ave., Pilina Building – Multi-purpose Room, Kahului

Current View of HO from Pu’u Ula’ula. Photo Courtesy: National Science Foundation & Hawaii Department of Health

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009; Photos Courtesy: National Science Foundation & Hawaii Department of Health)

USGS: CLIMATE CHANGE THREATENS ENDANGERED HONEYCREEPERS

A new report released by the U.S. Geological Survey says climate change could pose a threat to Hawaii’s endangered Honeycreeper population.

Title: Akepa Honeycreeper Description: While the susceptibility of endangered akepa honeycreepers to avian malaria is unknown, it is likely very high given their current restriction to the highest elevation forests on the island of Hawaii. Location: USA Photographer: Carter Atkinson, U.S. Geological Survey

According to the study, increased temperatures in Hawaii’s mountains would likely result in deadly non-native bird diseases creeping up the mountains.

Researchers say current populations enjoy cool, high-elevations where mosquitoes do not thrive; but an increase in climatic conditions could result in a rise in pox and malaria transmission.

Researchers say the low-risk disease zone at Hanawi Natural Area Reserve on Maui would likely decline by nearly 60 percent if a projected 3.6 degree rise in temperature occurs,.

Similarly, the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge on Hawaii Island could decline by as much as 96 percent.  Researchers go further to say that other islands, such as Kauai, with lower elevations and no low-risk zones would likely experience catastrophic effects on the remaining honeycreeper species with the predicted temperature changes.

“Without question, the one factor that prevented widespread and rapid extinction of virtually all of Hawaii’s native honeycreepers after the introduction of avian pox and avian malaria was the presence of high-altitude disease refuges on Kauai, Maui and Hawaii,” said lead study author Dr. Carter Atkinson, a USGS microbiologist based at the USGS Pacific Islands Ecosystems Research Center in Hawaii.

Title: Iiwi Honeycreeper Description: While still common at higher elevations, iiwi are extremely susceptible to avian malaria. Mortality is as high as 90% after exposure to a single infective mosquito bite under laboratory conditions. Location: USA Photographer: Carter Atkinson, U.S. Geological Survey

These cool, high-elevation – above 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) — mountains not only provided habitats that mosquitoes didn’t thrive in, but they also had habitat that honeycreepers liked, wrote the authors. While birds in those areas find refuge from the diseases – dispersing juvenile birds and adults that follow seasonal flowering of native plants to lower elevations are exposed to disease.

“Unfortunately,” said study co-author, USGS scientist Dr. Dennis LaPointe, “this seasonal movement happens at the same time that mosquito populations soar at mid-elevations, which fuels high disease-transmission rates there. There’s a continuous source of disease-susceptible birds each fall.”

“Right now, disease transmission in the mountains of Kaui is highly seasonal, but with temperature increases, disease would be able to be transmitted throughout most of the year,” said Atkinson.

In addition, the tropical inversion layer – often visible as a thin cloud layer around high peaks — may play a more significant role than temperature in determining tree line and the upper extent of forest bird habitat, the authors wrote. The inversion layer forms as cool, dry air meets warm, moist air, creating an inversion layer that caps moisture and cloud development between 5,900 and 7,900 feet (1,800 and 2,400 meters).  Over the past 24 years, the height of this layer has remained fairly stable in spite of warming trends but has increased in how often it occurs.

“This could have a tremendous adverse effect on the continued existence of high-elevation disease refugia,” said Atkinson. “Remaining bird populations could be squeezed between expanding disease transmission from lower elevations and the upper limits of suitable forest habitat. Such changes would likely push remaining populations of threatened and endangered honeycreepers to extinction, and cause severe declines in other honeycreepers not now endangered but susceptible to avian malaria.”

Given the likelihood of global warming, the authors suggested that management of mid-elevation habitats to reduce disease transmission will become increasingly vital. The best opportunities for doing this, they wrote, will be through reducing habitat for mosquito larvae, habitat that is often created by introduced feral pigs, goats and cattle in forests.

“The survival of these species into the next century may ultimately depend on our ability to remove or offset introduced threats and restore native forests from sea level to tree line,” Atkinson said.

Honeycreepers rival Darwin’s finches in the Galapagos Islands in terms of their bill types and number of species that descended from a common founder.  The birds specialize on food that includes nectar, fruits and insects. Before people came to the islands, as many as 56 kinds of honeycreepers probably occurred.

Avian malaria is caused by a protozoan parasite, and avian pox is a viral infection that typically causes tumor-like swellings on exposed skin of the feet, legs, beak and eyelids of infected birds. Malaria often results in appetite and weight loss, anemia, and massive enlargement of birds’ liver and spleen.

(The article, Introduced avian diseases, climate change, and the future of Hawaiian honeycreepers, was published in the Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery.)

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009; Images courtesy USGS)

HORSE RIDER SUFFERS FATAL FALL AT HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK

Authorities identified the man who died in a fatal fall near the crater yesterday as long-time Maui resident and experienced horseman, Edward Wilson.

A visitor reported the incident at around 1 p.m. on the Halemau’u Trail in the Summit District of Haleakala National Park.

County spokesperson Mahina Martin said the man fell approximately 100 feet in the incident.

Poor visibility and weather conditions prevented rescue personnel from retrieving the body until first light today.

The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation.

Park officials say the Halemau’u Trail is a steep and scenic trail and is located in an area where weather can change quickly.

(Posted by: Wendy OSHER © 2009)

PHONE SERVICE RESTORED TO UPCOUNTRY MAUI FOLLOWING FIREY CRASH

Phone service to thousands of residents and business in Upcountry, Haiku and Paia, Maui was restored by 4 o’clock this afternoon (Sunday, May 24, 3009).

The outage was sparked by a fire that started when a vehicle hit a propane tank on Lower Kula Road yesterday afternoon, igniting a house fire and resulting in damages to Hawaiian Telcom’s fiber optic cables. Telephone customers in Haiku and Paia as well as those in the upcountry areas of Kula, Makawao, Pukalani, and Haliimaile were affected by the incident. More than 200 telephone customers serviced by Sandwich Isle Communications in the Waiohuli Hawaiian Homes subdivision were also impacted.

“Our crews worked through the night and today to repair damaged lines and restore services to our customers as quickly as possible,” said Ann Nishida, spokesperson for Hawaiian Telcom. “Our customers are our priority and we’re proud of the extraordinary effort of our work crews,” she said.

During the incident, phone service was limited to only calls from phones located within the impacted areas. No 911 calls were possible in the affected areas, prompting the police department to staff police sub-stations in Makawao and Paia through the night and Sunday to accept 911 calls.

“Our police department provided a vital link to those who were left without the ability to call 911. By calling the police sub-stations in Makawao and Paia residents and businesses in these areas were able to call for police, fire and ambulance services if no cell phone was available,” said Mayor Charmaine Tavares.

“I appreciate the Police Department’s work and the hard work of crews from Hawaiian Telcom and Sandwich Isle Communications to help our community as rapidly as they were able to considering the severity of the damage sustained by the fire,” said Tavares.

The vehicle accident that triggered the fire occurred a few minutes before 5:00 pm when a truck left the roadway and collided with a fence and hit a propane tank which then ignited. A nearby home, vacant at the time, also caught on fire.

According to police officials, the driver of the truck, a 38 year old Kula woman was transported to Maui Memorial Medical Center with life threatening injuries as a result of the accident. The status of her condition was unavailable at the time of this report.

Details on the extent of the damage caused by the fire to the home are not yet available.

(Posted by Wendy Osher 2009; information courtesy: County of Maui, Office of the Mayor, Public Information Office)

VEHICLE IGNITES SPARKING HOME FIRE IN MAKAWAO, MAUI

A vehicle accident on Lower Kula Road that occurred shortly before 5:00 pm today ignited a propane tank and resulted in both the vehicle and a house to catch fire. Fire officials report that the home was vacant at the time. An individual believed to be in the vehicle was critically injured as a result and transported to the Maui Memorial Medical Center.

The fire caused damage to Hawaiian Telephone Company’s fiber optic cable that services the upcountry, Haiku, and Paia areas. Maui residents with phone number prefixes that begin with 572, 579, 575, and 878 have limited service. Until hawaiian Telephone Company is able to repair the damage, residents that are affected are able to receive and call only phone numbers with those prefixes and no others. 911 calls cannot be made until full service is restored to the affected areas. It is unknown if some cell phone services are impacted.

Impacted residents with phone number prefixes that begin with 572, 579, 575, and 878 are urged to call the Makawao Police Sub-Station at 572-8546 or the Paia Police Sub-Station at 579-9943 for 911 assistance if no cell phones are available.

The fire was extinguished around 7:30 pm and MPD has dispatched its traffic investigation unit to the scene.

HAWAII UNEMPLOYMENT RATE DROPS TO 6.9 PERCENT IN APRIL

Hawaii’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 6.9 percent in April—down point-2 percent from the month before.  State records show there were 44,400 unemployed people in the state.

Labor director Darwin L.D. Ching said that while the department is encouraged by the decrease, the road to recovery is not traveled quick or easily.

Molokai had the worst unemployment rate in the state at 14.1 percent, while Honolulu had the best at 5.7 percent. The Maui island rate was 8.5 percent, down point-3 percent from the moth before, but up 5.2 percent from the same time last year.

In contrast, the U.S. seasonally adjusted unemployment rate went from 8.5 percent in March to 8.9 percent in April.  Over the last six months, Hawai`i’s monthly seasonally adjusted unemployment rate has been on average 1.75 percentage points lower than the national seasonally adjusted unemployment rate.

“The Administration’s is continuing to focus on working closely with the private sector to create jobs through aggressive investments in public infrastructure improvements, increasing tourism marketing, maximizing federal partnerships and federal stimulus funds, and attracting private investments, especially in renewable energy technology,” said Ching.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009)

SURVEY COULD INFLUENCE FUTURE STREAM FLOWS FOR E. MAUI FARMERS

A survey being distributed to East Maui farmers could influence water designations for future instream flow standards.  The Maui County Farm Bureau began distributing the survey several months ago in the hopes of obtaining information on water usage and needs.  The information from the survey will help the farm bureau in its communications with the State Commission on Water Resource Management as it develops policies for instream flow standards as mandated by the State Water Code.  According to the state department of agriculture, these policies will have a direct impact on the amount of water that will be available for agriculture.  The deadline to submit the survey is May 28^th.  The contact number for more information is 281-9718.

E. Maui farmers urged to submit survey that could have impact on future instream flow standards. Photo of Keanae Loi by Wendy Osher 2009)

The survey was distributed by the Maui County Farm Bureau (MCFB) requesting that farmers and ranchers submit agricultural water information. MCFB e-mailed a survey to agricultural associations, farmers and ranchers in East Maui County.

The information from the survey will help provide information to the Commission on Water Resource Management as it develops policies for instream flow standards as mandated by the State Water Code. According to the state department of agriculture, these policies will have a direct impact on the amount of water that will be available for agriculture.

All farms and ranches on East Maui receive their water from streams in East Maui.

Pertinent information that MCFB is asking for includes:

• How is water used on your farm?
• If changes have occurred, do you avoid planting during certain periods due to uncertainty of water availability?
• What practices are done to make best use of water?
• Explain the agricultural value & other values that result from the use of the water.
• Are you are planning investments; and what are your assumptions are on the availability of water?
• What will happen if your access to water was reduced?
• If you have greater assurance of water, will you expand?

“Farming and ranching operations cannot survive without water,” said Sandra Lee Kunimoto, Chair-person of the Hawaii Board of Agriculture.  “So it is imperative that East Maui farmers and ranchers participate in this survey as the future of agriculture depends on the availability of irrigation water.”

The deadline to submit the surveys is May 28.  Farmers and ranchers who have not yet submitted their information yet or have questions about the survey, may contact MCFB Executive Director Warren Watanabe at 281-9718.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009)

KAUNAKAKAI PRINCIPAL ESPIRITU WINS $25,000 TOKIOKA AWARD

A neighbor island principal from Molokai was given top honors for excellence in leadership for public education.  Kaunakakai Elementary School Principal Janice Espiritu earned the Island Insurance Foundation’s 6^th Annual Masayuki Tokioka Award at a ceremony on Oahu this week.

Espiritu has been with Kaunakakai Elementary School for 30 years, 8 of which have been as Principal of the school.

Espiritu’s winnings total $25,000, including $10,000 in cash and $15,000 for a school project of her choice.

Espiritu plans to use the award to implement a Green Initiative by partnering the school with community members and organizations such as Maui Electric Company.  The final product would power part of the school with electricity created with solar power and create an eco-friendly alternative energy project designed to foster self and community awareness of energy conservation methods.

Espiritu has been with Kaunakakai Elementary School for 30 years, 8 of which have been as Principal of the school.

“Principal Espiritu exemplifies the type of leadership that can transform our public schools into model learning institutions,” said Colbert Matsumoto, Island Insurance Foundation President.  “By recognizing outstanding principals such as Janice, it is our hope that her accomplishments will inspire others in public education,” Matsumoto added.

The Island Insurance Foundation also presented a $2,000 cash award to the top two semi-finalists, Principal Nelson Shigeta of Makaha Elementary School and Principal Elynne Chung of Pearl Harbor Kai School.

Twelve candidates were nominated for the award.  They each received $1,000 and a commemorative plaque, which were presented to them at a recognition ceremony in April.

The other nine nominees were:  Patricia Dang, Kapalama Elementary School (Honolulu, Oahu); Lanelle Hibbs, Kailua Elementary School (Kailua, Oahu); Gwendolyn Lee, Kauluwela Elementary School (Honolulu, Oahu); Karen Liu, King Kaumualii Elementary School (Lihue, Kauai); Carmielita Minami, Waikele Elementary School (Waipahu, Oahu); Mitchell Otani, Kaneohe Elementary School (Kaneohe, Oahu); Carol Petersen, Mililani Mauka Elementary School (Mililani, Oahu); Stanley Tamashiro, Ewa Elementary School (Ewa Beach, Oahu); and Rene Yamafuji, Pomaikai Elementary School (Kahului, Maui).

“Janice has consistently brought together teachers, staff, parents, and community members for the sole purpose of creating the best possible learning environment for the children at our school,” said Robert Underwood, teacher at Kaunakakai Elementary School. “Under her leadership, our school has developed a professional learning community model that has improved instruction and created a team of teacher leaders,” said Underwood.

“Principal Espiritu is still excited about her job after all these years,” said Beverly Karen Holt, Executive Director of the Molokai Community Service Council. “She is always open to new ideas when it comes to improving our children’s educational opportunities and in our small community, she is an excellent leader for her school and a great partner for community based organizations like mine.”

The award, named in honor of the late Masayuki Tokioka, founder of Island Insurance Company, Ltd., is presented to a public school principal who is visionary, community-minded, and has an entrepreneurial spirit.

An immigrant from Japan, his business career spanned 70 years, during which he founded several successful enterprises such as the Island Insurance Companies, International Savings & Loan Association, Ltd. and National Mortgage & Finance Company, Ltd. He was also a driving force in establishing many community-focused entities such as the Hawaii Immigrant Preservation Center, Crown Prince Akihito Scholarship Foundation and the Japanese Cultural Centers in Hawaii and San Francisco.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER ©2009; Photo courtesy: Kaunakakai Elementary School)

DR BEACH NAMES KAUAI’S HANALEI BAY #1; MAUI’S HAMOA #5

Kauai’s Hanalei Bay was named the number 1 beach in the annual list released by Florida professor Stephen P. Leatherman, also known as Dr. Beach.

The 19th Annual list of the Top 10 Beaches was produced by Leatherman, who is the Director of Florida International University’s Laboratory for Coastal Research.

Meantime, Maui’s Hamoa Beach on the East side earned top five ranking in the latest list which assessed 50 criteria including water quality, safety and amenities.

The 19^th Annual list of the Top 10 Beaches was produced by Leatherman, who is the Director of Florida International University’s Laboratory for Coastal Research.

The 2-mile stretch of crescent-shaped beach that makes up Hanalei Bay is lined by palm trees with a backdrop of waterfalls and mountain peaks reaching up to 4,000 feet.  At one end is the Princeville Hotel, and at the other end is a high lava point that extends to the ocean.

“Hanalei Bay on the garden island of Kauai is my favorite getaway beach in Hawaii,” noted Leatherman, an international expert on beaches and coastal processes. “The clear emerald waters are perfect for swimming during the tranquil summer months, butonly swim at the life-guarded areas when the surf picks up during the wintertime as powerful rip currents are sometimes present. The laid-back little village of Hanalei is a good place for refreshments and casual dining, but accommodations are scarce so plan ahead,” said Leatherman.

As “Dr. Beach” (www.DrBeach.org), Leatherman has selected the annual Top 10 Beaches since 1991. Fifty criteria are used to evaluate beaches, which include water and sand quality as well as safety, facilities and environmental management.

Other beaches that made the top ten list were:  No.2 Siesta Beach in Sarasota, Florida; No.3 Coopers Beach in Southampton, New York; No.4 Coronado Beach in San Diego, California; No.5 Hamoa Beach in Maui, Hawaii; No.6 Main Beach in East Hampton, New York; No.7 Cape Hatteras in the Outer Banks of North Carolina; No.8 Cape Florida State Park in Key Biscayne, Florida; No.9 Coast Guard Beach in Cape Cod, Massachusetts; No.10 Beachwalker Park in Kiawah Island in South Carolina.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009; Image Courtesy: drbeach.org)

LOW WATER PRESSURE EXPECTED IN LAHAINA FRIDAY NIGHT

Water customers in Lahaina town may experience low water pressure beginning at 10 o’clock tonight (Friday, May 22, 2009) and lasting until 5 o’clock tomorrow morning (Saturday, May 23, 2009).  This is due to work on the first phase of the Honoapiilani Highway Realignment Project.  Customers are asked to conserve water during the work period, which involves the tie-in of a 16-inch water transmission line by contractors.  DWS customers are asked to call the 24-hour service line (270-7633) only if a water problem occurs.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009)

MAUI’S KAUMAHINA COMFORT STATION TO CLOSE TEMPORARILY

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) will close the comfort station at Kaumahina Wayside along the Hana Highway for a month in June for flooring improvements.  The wayside will remain open but the comfort station will be closed from June 1 through June 30, 2009.  Portable toilets will be provided in the parking area during the closure.

The Division of State Parks will install new ceramic floor tiles, tile and grouting sealant to provide durable and sanitary flooring that is easier to clean and maintain hygiene for park users.

“We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding during the construction period.  These improvements are a key component of the Lingle-Aiona Administration’s ongoing efforts to repair and maintain our state parks facilities and infrastructure statewide, and to ensure public health and safety for those who use the parks,” said Laura H. Thielen, DLNR chairperson.

“DLNR is committed to maintain our recreational facilities to the level of quality expressed in the Recreational Renaissance,” Thielen added.

Normal park open hours are from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.  The park gate will be closed overnight to prevent vandalism.

Kaumahina Wayside is located along Hana Highway (Highway 360), approximately 28 miles east of Kahului Airport-a two-hour drive.   It is a forested rest stop on 7.8 acres, with picnicking, showy exotic plants and scenic viewpoint of northeast Maui coastline.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009; information provided by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources)

KIHEI SITE OF 3RD WASTEWATER OVERFLOW IN LESS THAN WEEK

A third wastewater spill since Friday was reported in Kihei.  The latest incident occurred at around 11:45 Tuesday morning (May 19, 2009).   Approximately 933 gallons of wastewater overflowed when a suction connection broke while operators were disconnecting a pump at the Kihei Wastewater Reclamation Facility.  A small amount of the wastewater entered a storm drain on the Piilani Highway.  The area was disinfected and the drain had no outlet to the ocean.

Just two days earlier, nearly 4,000 gallons of semi-treated wastewater overflowed as a result of a pump failure at the same facility.  The overflow was reported at 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 17, 2009.  The wastewater flowed down the driveway of the facility and into a storm drain on Welakahao Road, which also did not have an outlet to the ocean.

In a separate incident, 52 gallons of wastewater overflowed from a sewer manhole at Alena Place in Kihei at around 7 p.m. Friday, May 15, 2009.  The overflow was caused by grease in the mainline.  Authorities say the spill entered a storm drain, but he drain was blocked by debris, and no wastewater reached the ocean.

In all cases, the spill sites were disinfected and the Department of Health was notified.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009)

CIRQUE POLYNESIA OPENS JUNE 2 AT THE HYATT MAUI

The new Cirque Polynesia show opens on Maui next month. The 75-minute show at the Hyatt Regency’s Monarch Showroom, features a blend of contemporary entertainment and human ability inspired by Polynesia.

The cirque performers include two of the world-renowned sixth and seventh generation, flying Wallenda family members performing a wire act 40-feet in the air.  The mother and daughter team perform the “perch,” a display of power and grace as daughter Lyric, secured by her ankle, high above the audience, spins her mother Rietta, secured by only a harness around her neck, at high speed with one arm.

The intimate stage setting includes non-stop action with contortionists, aerial acrobats, masters of balance, aerial illusionists, and quick-change transformations.

Prices range from $39.50 for show only child admission to $129 for a dinner and show VIP Adult ticket.  The grand opening performance is set for June 2^nd.

For more information, visit http://www.cirquepolynesia.com.

(Posted by Wendy OSHER © 2009)

HAWAII’S NEWEST SHOW COMBINES MODERN-DAY ‘CIRQUE’ WITH PACIFIC-RIM INFLUENCE

Cirque Polynesia is Hawaii’s newest and only dedicated “cirque” production that includes some of the world’s most acclaimed cirque performers at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa Monarchy Ballroom.

The 75-minute show features back-to-back performances that offer power, grace and sophistication, including sixth- and seventh-generation family members of the legendary Wallenda family.  A modern-day aerial act, known as the “perch,” involves daughter Lyric hanging by one ankle while twirling mother Reitta like a helicopter blade high above the audience.

“Cirque Polynesia is a unique evolution of the modern day Cirque-style shows,” explained Cornell “Tuffy” Nicholas, show producer, who also produced similar shows including Cirque at the Apollo, touring circuses and the Cirque Hawaii show that ran for three years at the Imax Theater on Oahu.

“It is an abstract, contemporary interpretation of the Cirque and Polynesian worlds coming together,” continued Nicholas.  “A combination of artistry and human ability that provides an entertainment experience that is inspiring and moving.”

Cirque Polynesia debuts, Tuesday, June 2 at 7 p.m.  There will be special matinee performances at 2 p.m. for two consecutive Saturdays on June 6 and June 13.

It is scheduled to run six nights a week with doors opening a half-hour prior to the 7 p.m. show.

“We’re all extremely excited about the opening of Cirque Polynesia to provide our guests, and everyone visiting Maui, a unique and memorable experience,” said Michael Jokovich, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa.  “Our guests expect nothing but excellence which is why we chose Cirque Polynesia as the show to provide as their nightly entertainment option.”

The Hyatt Monarchy Ballroom’s theatre-style, split-level seating, creates a special intimacy between the audience and performers.  The modified 600-seat room boasts an expanded stage, along with enhanced show lighting and audio effects and capabilities.

The show’s original music score features live performances from Diane Salonga Rubio, a classically-trained cellist, flute and strings musician and Dan Cruces who plays drums, electric percussion and the trumpet.

Cirque Polynesia will showcase an array of new talent including 19-year-old prodigy, Amanda Bautista, a fifth generation Brazilian contortionist, who defies the limits of what the human body is capable of.   Simon Arestov, 24, performs a nerve-racking balancing act known as the “Rolla Bolla” – which he has practiced since the age of 13 – on razor thin platforms placed on rolling objects while he stacks the platforms to dizzying heights.

Cirque artists from Hawaii, Russia, Germany, Kazakhstan and Moldova (Eastern Europe) perform aerial acrobatics, aerial illusions and quick-costume change transformations that make up just some of the other acts.

“We believe Cirque Polynesia provides a new and unique entertainment experience that will be enjoyed by residents and visitors of all ages,” explained Doug Harris, Cirque Polynesia’s Managing Partner.  “Our business model nestles Cirque Polynesia into the built-in clientele and infrastructure of an international hotel partner, the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, by providing tremendous operating efficiencies and upside synergies for both brands.”

Harris, a nearly 20-year Hawaii resident originally from New Zealand, is also President and CEO of The Harris Agency, Hawaii’s third largest advertising agency.  He was co-owner of The Ho’omana’o, a Polynesian sailing canoe racing event between Ka’anapali and Oahu which helped launch the annual International Festival of Canoes in Lahaina.  Harris most recently co-founded a statewide band music competition for teenagers, Band Champ, in which a band from Kamehameha Schools on Maui won.

Cirque Polynesia Dinner and Show packages includes dinner at The Hyatt Regency Maui’s Resort and Spa’s newest chic poolside restaurant, ‘Umalu, that features a three-course meal with a selection of fresh Maui produce, Mahi Mahi, prime rib and sesame-orange chicken stir-fry.  All meals include lilikoi-mango cheesecake for desert and soft drinks.

There will be special rates for Kama’aina and Keiki’s (under age 12).  The VIP seating, considered the best seats in the house, are the first five rows from the stage.  All other seats are Premier viewing.

Pricing for the Hyatt’s Dinner and Show adult package begin at $116.  Adult show only packages start at $62.  All seats are open on a first-come-first seated basis.

For additional pricing information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.CirquePolynesia.com or call (808) 667-4540. 

5 MILLION POUNDS OF SCRAP REMOVED FROM HANA LANDFILL

A total of 474 truckloads made their way along the narrow, 52-mile roadway from Hana to Central Maui, removing about 2,500 tons of material that had piled up at the landfill over the past 12 years. Through a 12-month contract with the County of Maui Department of Environmental Management (DEM), SOS Metals Island Recycling, LLC coordinated the removal of the numerous derelict vehicles, appliances, batteries, miscellaneous scrap metal and nearly 4,000 tires for processing and shipment off-island. All of the material collected will be recycled.

Hana Landifll before cleanup. PHOTO: Courtesy SOS Metals Island Recycling, LLC

“The completion of this project is an exciting turning point for the Hana community,” said Environmental Management Director Cheryl Okuma.

“Before the contract was issued by our Solid Waste Division, the landfill was in violation of State Department of Health rules due to the accumulation of material. This cleanup addresses that violation. We have been moving forward on getting appropriate land use permits so we can complete our application for an official operating permit for the landfill and recycling center. Once that operating permit is issued, the recycling center can be opened at the landfill. We’re very pleased to be able to take the next step in the planning process toward recycling– this will help extend the life of the landfill by reducing the amount of material that actually ends up there.”

A request for proposals was issued by DEM last spring, with a notice to proceed issued June 16, 2008 to SOS Metals Island Recycling, LLC, which submitted a bid for nearly $1 million less than what was anticipated.

The project cost $618,746.98 and was completed three months early, with the last load removed on March 12, 2009.

Hana Landfill after cleanup and removal of debris. PHOTO: Courtesy SOS Metals Island Recycling, LLC

SOS owners Don and Sandy Shadrow stated that “we wanted to provide a much-needed metal recycling service placing the environment first over making a profit. We were impressed with the professional workmanship of all involved with this clean-up, which resulted in an environmentally sound project with zero accidents.”

Bruce Mizel, SOS Project Manager, estimates that by recycling material collected from the landfill, the project reduced greenhouse gas emissions by a total of 3.6 million pounds, which he said is the equivalent to the emissions created by the use of 175,800 gallons of gasoline.

“The environmental impact of this cleanup effort is significant not just for Maui, but for the environment in general,” Mizel said. “It was truly a joint effort, in that we worked with several local hauling companies and Community Work Day volunteers, as well as DEM staff and the hard-working Hana Landfill employees: Roxanna Smith, Chico Gonsalves and Kaiolohia Funes Smith.”

(Posted by Wendy OSHER, Information courtesy: County of Maui, Office of the Mayor, Placeholder images & PHOTOS: Courtesy SOS Metals Island Recycling, LLC)