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July 30, 2004
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FEATURE ARTICLES
Demographics of Hawai`i Island – a look at our population
Census data, collected every 10 years, provides a wealth of information and insights into our island’s people – our demographics.
We thought it would be interesting to delve a bit into the 2000 Census data in this article. As of 2000, the official total Hawai’i Island population was 148,677.
Males outnumbered females by a razor-thin margin, 50.1% males to 49.9% females.
Baby boomers aged 45 to 54 ruled, making up 16.4% of the Big Island’s population. They were followed closely by the next age group behind, the 35- to 44 year-olds, at 15.4%. The 25-to 34-year olds were in third place, comprising 10.8%, followed by 10- to 14-year olds at 7.8% and 15- to 19-year olds at 7.5%.
Five- to 9-year olds made up 7.4%, 65- to 74-year olds stood at 7.3% and children under five comprised 6.1%. Twenty- to 24-year-olds and 55- to 59-year olds made up 5.5% per age group. Seniors aged 75- to 84 comprised 4.8%, 60- to 64-year olds held 4.0%, while people over 85 stood at 1.4%.
America’s Most Ethnically Diverse County
Hawai`i County has been designated by the U.S. Census Bureau as the most ethnically-diverse county in the United States, with more than 28 percent, or 42,288, of our people claiming two or more races.
More than a quarter of our island’s people claim Asian ancestry (26.7%), most of them Japanese (13.6%). Just under a third of our population listed itself as Caucasian (31.5%), of various ancestries led by Portuguese (7.6%) and Germans (7.2%).
About 10% of Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders on the Big Island classified themselves as purely Hawaiian or Pacific Islander in ancestry, while 31% of Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders listed themselves as part-Hawaiian or part-Pacific Islander in combination with one or more other races.
Born and Raised in the State of Hawai`i?
While the census didn’t say what percentage of residents were born on Hawai’i Island, a majority of our community was born in the state of Hawai`i (63.3%)
Of our foreign-born population, 70% were born in Asian countries.
More than 18% of our residents speak a second language at home, and of those second language speakers, 15% speak Asian or Pacific Island languages.
Hawai`i Island incomes
As of 2000, the median* household income in Hawai’i County was $39,805, with the largest percentage of households (18.4%) making $50,000-74,999. Of the island’s 52,945 households, nearly 12% had incomes of less than $10,000.
Median earnings for male full-time workers were $31,955 a year, while median earnings for female full-time workers were $26,164 a year.
*In statistics, the median is the number that divides the data set into two equal groups—50% of the data is above the median and 50% is below.
What do our people do for a living?
The census found that the largest percentage of our 64,979 working people (19%), were engaged in education, health or social services. The hotel, restaurant, recreation, entertainment and arts employed the next largest group, 17.6%. The retail trade employed the third largest group of workers at 12%.
Professional, scientific, management, administrative and waste management services comprised 8.6%.
Construction jobs comprised 7.8%, while agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting and mining made up 7.1%. Public administration employed 5.7% of workers and transportation, warehousing and utilities comprised 5.5%. Finance, real estate, insurance, rental and leasing made up 5.1%, while miscellaneous other services comprised 4.5%. Wholesale trade made up 2.7% of the jobs, manufacturing 2.6% and information-related jobs took up 1.8%.
How long do Hawai`i Island people commute to work?
The average worker on the Big Island spent nearly 25 minutes getting to the workplace. An overwhelming majority of them (68.6%) got to work by driving alone. Just under 20% carpooled to work with others.
Nearly 40 percent of our households have two vehicles, and 17 percent have three or more.
Renter or Homeowner?
From a total of 52,985 occupied housing units, 64.5% were owner-occupied.
According to the 2000 census, the rest of them, more than one-third (35.5%), were rentals.
The average household size, whether owner-occupied or rented, was almost the same -- close to three people per household.
How much are our homes worth?
The census found that nearly a quarter of owner-occupied homes (24%) on the Big Island were valued at $100,000-$149,000, with the next largest number (22%) were valued at $150,000-$199,999.
Just under 20% of homes were valued at $50,000-$99,999.
The median home value at the time of the census was $153,700.
How much do Big Islanders pay in mortgages/rents per month?
The median mortgage payment was $1,133 per month, with 21% of households paying $1,000-$1,499 monthly.
Mortgage payments took up a whopping 35 percent or more of incomes in 20% of households.
Rents took a chunk out of many households’ income, with 31% of households paying 35 percent or more of their incomes to make the rent.
Nearly 30% of Big Island households paid $500 to $749 in rent.
For further information on the 2000 census, call the County Department of Research and Development at 961-8366.
How the Real Property Tax Division Assesses your Property
When our island’s property owners get their real property tax assessments every March, some residents wonder how the County assesses property values.
This article answers some of the questions property owners have about the assessment process.
What does the County Real Property Tax Division strive for?
The goal of the Real Property Tax Division is to equitably and uniformly assess all real property at its fair market value on January 1st each year. Appraisers use the sales comparison method and the cost method to fulfill this goal.
Which method is used for which type of property?
For undeveloped land (of all kinds – commercial, residential or conservation land) the sales comparison method is used to assess the property’s value. In other words, the market is analyzed based on the sales prices for comparable property.
The assessed value of land is based on an annual review of vacant land sales. Sales in a particular area or subdivision are used to set the values for that area.
In other words, if the vacant lots around you have recently sold for $50,000 each, you can expect that your lot would be valued at this amount on its next assessment. In areas with few or no vacant land sales, the Real Property Tax Division will look at sales of similar lots in other locations.
So what’s a comparable property?
It is a property that is similar in size, location, use or potential use of the land, noteworthy topographical features and availability of amenities (such as electric power, paved roads, County water). For example, desirable features such as an ocean view or rolling vistas will likely affect the value of a property.
How are buildings assessed?
Buildings are assessed using the cost method. This method determines the assessed value of buildings using cost and depreciation tables. The cost tables are based on contractors’ cost to build, and market sales. Market sales are analyzed by comparing the combined assessment of the building and land with actual sales. That gives a sales ratio that shows how far an assessment is above or below the market value.
The resulting value is called the Replacement Cost Less Depreciation value. The tables are reviewed and adjusted annually so that they are in tune with the market place. The final value set using these tables is the Division's estimate of the market value of the building.
To clarify, each building is valued based on the cost tables as of the assessment date. Changes in value may be caused by cost table adjustments and/or by physical changes to the building. Please note that values may increase, decrease or remain the same.
What information does the appraiser use to determine the value?
To set the value of a particular building, the appraiser must first get accurate measurements of all parts of the structure.
He or she must also inspect the building during and after construction to ascertain the quality of construction and materials that will determine the building class, or grouping. These two things are the main components of the value of a building.
As a building gets larger, its value will increase. And the higher the quality, the higher the value.
Do you visit every property every year to determine values?
It isn’t feasible to visit every property on our vast island every year. However, properties with buildings are visited by an appraiser whenever a building permit is issued.
The Real Property Tax Division assesses all improvements to a property, such as extra bedrooms, car ports, garages, decks, etc.
Appraisers will also visit a property (whether with buildings or raw land) upon request from the owner, such as an appeal of a tax assessment.
Stopping the clock on property values
There is a special program called the Non-Speculative Dedication.
Under this Non-Speculative Dedication, the property owner pledges not to sell the property for 10 years, and the assessed value of the property is frozen for that period at the value at the time of dedication. This program is only for homeowners. The dedicated property cannot be used for business or rental, or to conduct any commercial activities.
So What is the Assessed Value on my Tax Assessment Notice?
The value that appears on the annual assessment notice is a combination of the land and building values. If the owner qualifies for an exemption, then that amount would be deducted from the total to leave what is called the Net Taxable Amount.
This is the amount that is used to calculate the real property taxes you must pay each year.
For further information about the assessment process, call Real Property Tax Division at 961-8354 for Hilo and 327-3542 for Kona, and they will be happy to help.
EPA to Remove Waste from Hilo Bayfront Recreation Area
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 were held July 14 and 15 to discuss the upcoming removal project and answer any questions the public may have.
Background
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.
What Will EPA and DOH Do?
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.
How Long Will It Take and How Will the Community Be Affected?
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.
For More Information
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 Benson | Vicki Rosen |
| EPA On-Scene Coordinator | EPA Community Involvement Coordinator |
| (562) 499-6312 | (415) 972-3244 |
| benson.craig@epa.gov | rosen.vicki@epa.gov |
Craig and Vicki can also be reached toll-free at: (800) 231-3075. Please leave a message and your call will be returned.
EPA Honolulu Office: Dean Higuchi
EPA Press Officer
(808) 541-2711
Hawai’i Department of Health: Mike Cripps
State On-Scene Coordinator
(808) 586-4249
mcripps@eha.health.state.hi.us
Hawai`i County: Wendell Hatada
Mayor’s Office
(808) 961-8223
Ali’i Drive Temporary Southbound One-Way Traffic Pattern
The County of Hawai`i Department of Public Works advises the public that from August 16, 2004 a temporary southbound one-way traffic pattern will go into effect along Alii Drive, from Kaahumanu Place (Kailua Pier) to Hualalai Road.
This change will be in effect for a 90-day trial period, during which time the one-way will run from 9:00 am to 12 noon, Monday through Friday, excluding State holidays. The temporary one-way traffic pattern will remain in force until 12 noon on November 12, 2004.
The purpose of this one-way pattern is to create more freight loading zones in the area. This will be achieved by allowing the mauka lane to be used for freight loading/unloading activities only, while the makai lane will be for normal southbound traffic.
Motorists should plan their trips accordingly to help minimize delays.
The Department of Public Works asks for your patience and cooperation during this trial one-way traffic pattern period.
For further information, please contact the Department of Public Works, Traffic Division at 961-8341.
Water Board to Meet on Private Water Systems Aug 24 in Kona
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.
When: August 24, 2004, 9:30 a.m.
Where: Royal Kona Resort, Discovery Room, 75-5852 Ali‘i Drive, Kailua-Kona
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.
For job postings, visit our website: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/civil_serv/civ_serv.htm
Or call our 24/7 Job Hotline: 961-8618
Or visit our webpage: co.hawaii.hi.us
Click on employment opportunities to download all of the forms.
COMMUNITIES IN ACTION
Public Meeting to Discuss Future of Kawaihae Harbor Aug 1
A public meeting to discuss the future of Kawaihae Harbor on the Big Island will be held at the Kawaihae Canoe Club on Sunday, August 1, 2004 at 2:00 p.m.
State Transportation Director Rodney Haraga will speak on future plans for the harbor, including public access. Representative Cindy Evans arranged the meeting.
Anticipated upcoming impacts on the harbor include:
Puainako Express Charity Run Walk August 7 in Hilo
Just before the new Puainako Extension is opened to traffic, there will be a unique opportunity for the public to enjoy this roadway via the Puainako Express Charity Fun Walk/Run.
When: Saturday August 7, 2004. Race starts at 7:00 a.m.
Where: Entrance of the Puainako Extension, at Komohana Street
The cost for the event is $20 for adults, $10 students and $5 for children 10 and under and $5 for seniors. Commemorative T-shirts will be provided with entry fee.
The Puainako Express Charity Fun Walk/Run will feature a a 5K Walk and 10K Run. All proceeds will benefit the East Hawaii Coalition for the Homeless.
Early registration deadline is July 21, 2004. However applications will be accepted up until the day of the event with on-site registration starting at 6:00 a.m. Registration forms are available at the Fire Administration Office, the East Hawai`i Coalition for the Homeless administration office, Orchid Isle Fitness, Prince Kuhio Mall Information Desk and Borders Books.
The inspiration for the charity walk came from Fire Chief Darryl Oliveira, who patterned the event after the H-3 Freeway Run on Oahu. Chief Oliveira mobilized the team of Fire Department employees responsible for the EMS Run, to assist with planning and coordination with Public Works and the Puainako Extension’s contractor Goodfellow Brothers.
For more information call the East Hawaii Coalition for the Homeless at 969-4848.
Composting Workshops in August for East Hawai’i
Learn how to compost green waste and kitchen scraps for a healthier environment, better soil and even free fish bait! Reduce what goes into the Hilo landfill. Take part in the latest round of Composting Workshops.
Workshop space is limited. Please call 959-7257 to reserve your spot.
Intermediate/Advanced Composting
When: Thursday, August 12, 1:00-3:00 pm
Where: Kea`au Recycling & Reuse Center
Cost: $10 (Free composter for attending)
Basic Composting
When: Thursday, August 19, 4:00-6:00 pm
Where: UH Hilo Komohana Extension
Cost: $10 (Free composter for attending)
Worm Composting
When: Saturday, August 21, 1:00-3:00 pm
Where: Laulima Puna Gardens, Pahoa
Cost: $35 (Fully loaded worm bin with native compost worms and instructions for attending)
Parking Design Notification Program Volunteer Training
When: Wednesday, August 18, 2004, 9:30 am to 11:30 am
Where: Aupuni Center Conference Room, 101 Pauahi St.
Please call to pre-register for this volunteer training workshop if you would like to:
spaces for persons with disabilities;
of parking spaces; and
federal and state regulations; then,
Please call to pre-register for the Hilo workshop by August 6.
The same workshop will be held in West Hawai`i.
When: Wednesday, August 25, 2004, 10:00 am to 12:00 Noon
Where: Police Dept. Conf. Rm 75-2551 Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway, Kailua-Kona
Please call to pre-register for the Kona workshop by August 16.
To register or for more information or to request an auxiliary aid or service, call Adele Ching at 974-4000, ext. 68121 V/TTY (toll free)
This training is accessible for individuals with disabilities.
The Parking Design Notification Program is a project of the Disability and Communication Access Board (DCAB), Department of Health, State of Hawai`i, 919 Ala Moana Boulevard, Room 101, Honolulu 96814.(808) 586-8121. Email: accesshi@aloha.net or via Internet at www.hawaii.gov/health/dcab .
Homeland Security Community Group Training Aug 26-27
The Western Community Policing Center will conduct training sessions on preparing you and your neighborhood for involvement in the Citizens Corps, a community-based initiative focused on homeland security issues.
The aim is to enable community leaders to develop vigilant, prepared and resilient community groups. The training will deal with the following themes:
The training is in preparation for Citizens Emergency Response Team training to be held islandwide beginning in the fall of 2004.
When: August 26 & 27, 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Where: Aupuni Conference Center in Hilo
To register or for more information, call Hawaii County Resource Center at 961-8085 or 961-8035.
** For attendees from West and North Hawaii a limited number of stipends for mileage and overnight lodging are available.
Free Mulch Available at Kealakehe, Hilo Transfer Stations
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.
Please also note that green waste drop offs have resumed at the Kealakehe Transfer Station. A big Mahalo to all residents for your patience and cooperation.
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.
ReefTalks for August in Waimea
The public is cordially invited to attend a free educational presentation about ocean issues in Waimea in August.
August 3, Tuesday, 6:30-8:30pm, Thelma Parker Library at Waimea School.
Hawaiian Monk Seals: "Endangered" Means There Is Still Time
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.
Substance Abuse Counseling Certificate Program at HawCC
Hawaii Community College announces a new certificate program in Substance Abuse Counseling starting Fall 2004. This program was developed in response to the growing need for certified substance abuse counselors and trained human service professionals to address the methamphetamine "ice" crisis and other substance abuse issues in the county of Hawaii.
In addition to the 18-credit certificate program, non-credit courses will be offered to human service and criminal justice professionals seeking to develop and/or upgrade their skills in working with individuals and families suffering from chemical abuse or dependency.
Credit courses will be offered at the Hilo and West Hawaii campuses during the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters. The registration deadline for the Fall Semester is August 13, 2004.
Students who successfully complete the substance abuse counseling courses are also eligible to receive addiction studies and/or fieldwork hours that can be applied towards obtaining State Substance Abuse Counseling Certification as required by the Department of Health, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division (ADAD), the National Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselor (NAADAC) Credentialing Board, and the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (ICRC).
For more information about this program, contact Donnalyn Kalei at 933-0701 or johnsd@hawaii.edu .
Hilo to Host International World Sprints Championship Aug 9-15
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.
For further information, click on http://www.kekua.org/2004/ .
Solutions: Neighborhoods in Action to Hold Video Conference Aug 12
Solutions: Neighborhoods In Action Task Force Groups will be holding a video conference on Thursday, August 12, 2004. For West Hawaii the meeting room will be the Mayor's Office, and for East Hawaii the venue will be the Hilo Prosecutor's Office.
Below are the times, contact information and agenda for all three Task Force Groups.
Traffic Task Force Meeting
Time: 10am - 11am
Agenda: Continue working on "Speeding In Neighborhoods" awareness. Contact: Laura Ward at 334-0442 or email laura.ward@cancer.org
Animal Control Task Meeting
Time: 11:15am - 12:15pm
Agenda will be to continue working on the proposed Animal Control Ordinances - especially barking and stray dogs. Contact: Nancy Zorn at 328-9931 or nzzorn2@kona.net
Property Crimes Task Force Meeting
Time: 12:30 pm - 1:30pm
Agenda will continue working on raising awareness of burglary, theft and vandalism.e
Contact: Lil Beaufrere at 325-0039 or email konalil@hawaii.rr.com
Future meetings will be held on the first Thursday of every month:
September 2, 2004 - Thursday
October 7, 2004 - Thursday
November 4, 2004 - Thursday
Non-Partisan Candidate Forum in Waimea on Sept 9
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).
Training for Families Raising Childen with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
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).
When: Tuesday, September 14th, 2004, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: at the Sangha Hall, 424 Kilauea Avenue, in downtown Hilo
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
Rotary Seeks Applicants for Study Tour to Philippines
The Rotary Clubs of Hawai`i (District 5000) are seeking applicants to a Group Study Exchange team that will travel to Manila, Republic of the Philippines from February 12 to March 14, 2005.
Applicants must be non-Rotarian young professionals age 25-40 and must not be related to a Rotarian. Applicants must be Hawai`i residents who are U.S. citizens.
Successful applicants will be personable, articulate, cooperative, exemplary in their work and enthusiastic about their vocations. Although there is no language training necessary since English is widely spoken in the Philippines, team members must be willing to undertake other preparation for the month-long mission.
Rotary Group Study Exchanges are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to gain new perspectives and an enlarged world vision, as well as an understanding of a nation’s culture, commerce and government. The four team members, accompanied by a Rotarian team leader, act as ambassadors to the host country.
Rotary International and the host district pay for all airfare, lodging, food and local transportation.
For application forms, email Mark Moore at hale1632@aol.com or fax: (808) 734-3235. Mailing address: 1632 Halekoa Place, Honolulu, HI 96821. Deadline: September 15, 2004.
Hilo Medical Center and Foundation host Demolition Party
The formal initiation to the first physical change leading to the creation of Hawaii’s first State Veterans Home, the demolition of the old Hilo Hospital, will festively take place on Wednesday, September 1, 2004, 1:30 – 2:30 pm, at the old Hilo Hospital.
"The old Hilo Hospital has been an eyesore and even (unfortunately) a symbol of the past economic condition of east Hawaii," said Ronald Schurra, Hilo Medical Center’s chief executive officer. "It is fitting at this time of economic revival and health care improvement, that we celebrate the first real physical demonstration of our dramatic change for a positive future."
Schurra said the creation of Hawaii’s first State Veterans Home could only have occurred through the community’s strong support.
BACKGROUND: Completed in 1951, then named Puumaile hospital, was a 216-bed tuberculosis hospital. In 1957, a $900,000 County Bond together with $650,000 from the U.S. Public Health Service provided funds for additions and renovations to the Puumaile Hospital to care for non-T.B. patients.
In 1961 the old Hilo Memorial hospital (located below Rainbow Falls) was closed and the newly renovated Puumaile Hospital was renamed Hilo Hospital.
Hilo Medical Center, a 275-bed hospital that provides a full range of services, is the major provider of inpatient and outpatient care on the Big Island of Hawai`i. With more than 120 physicians representing 33 specialties and over 850 employees, Hilo Medical Center is the fifth busiest hospital in the state.
For further information contact Joni Urasaki, Management Analyst/Community Relations, Office: 974-4741, Email: jurasaki@hhsc.org
Healthy and Hapai Events in October
Malama A Ho'opili Pono, a Department of Health initiative for mother and child health, will be holding the- East Side's 3rd Annual Healthy & Hapai/WIC's Breastfeeding Challenge on Saturday, October 2, 2004 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Maternal & Child Health/Family Health Agencies interested in reserving a booth, please call Haunani at 974-4291.
Malama A Ho'opili Pono will also hold a Healthy & Hapai Health Fair - Ka'u on Oct 30, 2004 (Halloween Saturday) from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Na'alehu Community Center & Park. The event will feature fun, music, costume contests and much more. Maternal Child & Health Agencies interested in reserving a booth, call 939-2437 and ask for Pat or Sandy Lei.
TRAFFIC ALERT
(All project schedules based on weather permitting.)
August 2, 2004 Monday
Where/Location: South Hilo – East Palai Street.
What: Repaint faded centerlines, edge of pavement lines, and stop lines.
August 3, 2004 Tuesday
Where/Location: South Hilo – East Palai Street.
What: Continue repainting of faded pavement markings.
August 4, 2004 Wednesday
Where/Location: South Hilo – Mamaki Street, Awa Street, and Pa’u O Pala’e Street.
What: Repaint faded centerline markings.
August 5, 2004 Thursday
Where/Location: South Hilo – Panaewa Area.
What: Repaint faded centerline markings.
August 6, 2004 Friday
Where/Location: South Hilo – Panaewa Area.
What: Maintain faded stop lines.
Street Lights and Traffic Signal Projects
August 2, 2004 – August 6, 2004
Where/Location: South Kohala, Waimea – Mamalahoa Highway and Lindsey Road intersection.
What: Traffic signal work.
Traffic Tip of the Week from your Hawai`i County Police Department
Safe Driving Tip of the Week
Keep a three-second "safety cushion" distance between you and the car in front of you. To do this, start counting "1001, 1002, 1003" as the car in front of you passes a stationary point like a tree, road sign or overpass bridge. You should be able to finish counting to 1003 before you get to that same stationary landmark. If not, you are following too closely.
One-Way Traffic on Kalaniana’ole Avenue due to Sewer Work
Kalaniana’ole Avenue between the Bay Clinic and Kea’a Street will be closed for Keaukaha-bound traffic on a 24-hour basis beginning August 9, 2004 through September 17, 2004 to allow for much- needed rehabilitation work on the County of Hawai’i sewer line.
Please note that Hamakua-bound traffic will remain open along Kalaniana’ole Avenue and local traffic both ways up to the Bay Clinic will be allowed.
Keaukaha-bound motorists will be detoured through Kamehameha Street and Silva Street while construction improvements are in progress. Please use caution when traveling through the area.
For additional information, please contact Isemoto Contracting Co., Ltd. at 935-3102 or the County of Hawai’i Wastewater Division at 961-8338.
Lane Closures for Fiber-Optic Cable Project in Kaumana
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, August 2nd through Friday, August 6th, Willocks Construction will be boring and trenching in the following areas:
The work will start at 8:00 am and continue until 3:30 pm, 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 5th week of work and estimate this project to be completed in November 2004. Questions can be referred to Chuck Eckman (Resident Engineer), Mid State Consultants, at 640-9509.
Mahalo for your patience and cooperation.
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
County of Hawaii WebSite Address: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/
County Forms Online: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/forms/forms.html
County Maps Online: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/maps/maps.html
County Project Summaries And Updates Online: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/info/projects.htmUse the following links to the specific region:
North Hawaii: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/info/nh/NH-M.htm
East Hawaii: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/info/eh/EH-M.htm
South Hawaii: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/info/sh/SH-M.htm
West Hawaii: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/info/k2k/K2K-M.htmProcurement Notices: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/purchasing/bids.htm
Information & Complaints: cohinfo@interpac.net
County Departments: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/email.htm
Hawaii County website: co.hawaii.hi.us
To add or remove your name from distribution, e-mail Janet Snyder: jsnyder@co.hawaii.hi.us
For more information, contact:
Janet Snyder
Phone: (808) 961-8223
Fax: (808) 933-1521
e-mail: jsnyder@co.hawaii.hi.us
Hawai‘i County ... a nice place to live.