7/4/08 Weekly Report: School’s Out, Time for Hawai`i Island Families to Enjoy Healthy Vacation Time

The following article is courtesy of Carrie Kuwada Phipps of the State Department of Health, based in Kona. (This article originally appeared in slightly different form in West Hawai`i Today. Ms. Kuwada Phipps obtained permission from WHT to offer this to the County newsletter as a public service.)

Summer’s here and the time is right for Hawai`i Island families to enjoy a healthy vacation break.

Fitness should be an integral part of those blissful summer vacation days. Whether it’s camping at Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park or at your favorite Big Island beach or flying to some exotic destination, keep your family’s as well as your own fitness in mind.

Camping – a great way to bring healthy physical activity into your vacation

A family vacation can be a great opportunity to reconnect with your family, and planning an “active” vacation will not only be fun, but will teach your children about the importance of physical activity. Outdoor or nature-oriented vacations give you the opportunity to do both. Camping tops the list.

Camping can be done in a truly “roughing it” fashion -- where you set up your own tent and campsite or it can be done in a more modified manner via a cabin, lodge or dude ranch with some of your creature comforts being provided for as well as activity options.

“Family Camps” may offer activities such as horseback riding, archery, swimming, trail or mountain biking as well as other activities to keep campers happy. Beachside camping that you can do easily here in Hawai`i, offers ocean-related activities such as swimming, surfing, diving, body boarding, hiking, volleyball, and fishing.

Canoe and river rafting trips, hiking

Canoe or river rafting trips are usually multi-family venues with numerous guides to keep the show running. Paddling or rowing down streams and rivers adds lots of physical activity to this mix.

If hiking’s your thing, try a multi-state vacation with the goal of hiking up the highest mountain in every state you visit. Get creative in planning your family getaway.

Leave the gadgets at home

You’re taking a vacation en famille to bond with each other, right? A family vacation or any vacation can be better minus all the electronics that invade our lives – no TV, Blackberries, video games or cell phones. Well, maybe a cell phone for emergency use.

If your family members think this is sheer torture, you may want to compromise to one electronic gadget per person to keep the peace.

If you plan an active outdoor vacation adventure in the near future, here are some tips to keep in mind from www.healthytravelnetwork.com :

Don’t overexert the group. Not everyone may be in perfect shape and some may need more frequent breaks. It’s always easier to make things more difficult, but not as simple to make things easier.
Don’t push too hard. Kids who are in school all day or your spouse who sits behind a desk day after day may not be used to continuous physical exertion. Realize that everyone has limits and don’t go beyond them.
Stay hydrated. Make sure everyone has enough water for the trip. Some may prefer sports or energy drinks but watch the carbs and sugar intake. If you’re flying, remember that cabin air is much drier that you think. To combat dehydration (and the fatigue it causes), drink two 8-ounce glasses before boarding, then another one each hour in flight (for adults). Just before you hop the plane, top up your water bottles.
Safety first. If you’re going off without a guide into the woods or any other remote location, bring a basic first aid kit. If your cell phone works it’s ok to bring it just in case there’s an emergency but don’t use it to call the office to do business.
If you’re flying, book a daytime arrival, especially if you are on a west-to-east flight. Once you’re there, drag yourself and your family outside and do something active in the daylight. This will help you in recovering from jet lag much more quickly.
Don’t forget to pack the healthy snacks for flying or long road trips. Bring non-messy, packable snacks for the plane (dried fruit, nuts, healthy whole grain cereal, granola bars, etc.). Once you get to your destination, you can load up on fresh fruits, baby carrots, etc.

Whatever your destination, planning for a healthy and active family vacation is sure to score big-time points with your kids and your spouse. It will make for some great memories and for some quality bonding time. This summer vacation, be active and have fun.

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COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD

Kona Celebrates July 4 with Parade and Fireworks

The 4^th of July parade and fireworks in Kailua-Kona is a wonderful event that has been a tradition for many families. Plans have been made that will provide great parade and fireworks viewing again this year.

The Kona parade route

The parade begins at 5:30 p.m., starting at the Kona Kekua’okalani Gym, near Old Airport, and goes south on Kuakini Highway, down Palani Road to the Kailua Pier, and then along Alii Drive to Walua Road, just past Coconut Grove Marketplace.

Fireworks follow the parade – Terrific Viewing Spots

The Kailua-Kona fireworks are scheduled to start at 8:30 p.m. The fireworks will be visible from many places on the West side of the island, with downtown Kailua Village providing a prime viewing spot.

In addition, the soccer field near Old Airport will be available for fireworks viewing, with parking available on streets throughout the Old Industrial Area for those who wish to bring lawn chairs or blankets and walk to the field. Queen Liliuokalani Trust has generously offered another key viewing spot, Makalapua Center (Wallace Theaters, Macy's and KMart area).

Safety precautions

The fireworks will be under the direction of Hawaii Explosives & Pyrotechnics, Inc and will be launched from the runway at Old Airport Park.

To ensure the safety of our community, the runway area will close at midnight July 3rd, and all of Old Airport Park will close at 6 p.m. The Old Airport runway gate will be locked all day on July 4, but foot traffic will be permitted until closure of the entire park at 6 p.m. The park will reopen on Saturday, July 5^th at 8 am.

For more information about the fireworks and the parade, please click on www.konaparades.com or call the Mayor's Kona office at 329-5226.

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User’s Guide to a Fun, Safe July 4 Celebration in Hilo

The 4^th of July celebration and fireworks in Hilo is a wonderful event that has become a tradition for many families. For the sixth year running, plans have been made that will provide more fireworks viewing area and make it possible for more families to enjoy this day, while addressing safety concerns that have arisen. There has been special concern for children because of excessive drinking, violent behavior, and vehicles driving on the beach and grass areas, especially after dark.

The following public safety agencies have been working together to make this 4^th of July celebration a fun and safe event. These agencies are Civil Defense, Fire Department, Police Department, Parks and Recreation, Public Works, Environmental Management, Mass Transit Agency, State Highways, State Parks and DOCARE.

A plan has been developed that involves designated parking areas, free shuttle services, several large public rest tents and road closures. The public rest tents will include the following: 10 tents on Mooheau Park lawn, 8 tents on the makai soccer field between the two County parking lots on Kamehameha Ave., 4 tents near the restrooms by the canoe sheds and 2 tents near Isles parking lot. This will provide good fireworks viewing as well as address public safety concerns.

The Bayfront Highway will be closed from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. on the evening of the 4^th of July so people can watch the fireworks safely from these areas. Additional parking will be available on the Hamakua side of Kumu Street, where people can then cross Kamehameha Avenue and access Bayfront through gates in the fence. Free shuttles will be available to carry people and their picnic gear from designated parking areas to viewing areas. While Kamehameha Ave. will be open there will be no parking along Kamehameha Ave. or the adjacent open fields. .

Tents, canopies, alcohol and fireworks are prohibited.

We realize that these changes will inconvenience some people who are used to parking on the grass and in the Bayfront area. Please understand that these measures are being taken to make this a safe and fun day for all.

Terrific Evening Fireworks Viewing from 8:00 pm – Where are the Great Spots?

On and along the Bayfront Highway and beach area. Three pedestrian gates are located along the fence along the Bayfront Highway and will be marked with orange flags.
The soccer fields along Kamehameha Avenue.
Liliuokalani Park

Where Can You Park on July 4^th?

County Building and Aupuni Center parking lots on Pauahi and Aupuni Streets.
Afook Chinen Civic Auditorium parking lots.
Soccer field on the downtown (Hamakua) side of Kumu Street.
Designated disabled parking available in all parking areas, and an area exclusively for disabled parking at the Liliuokalani Park Tea House parking lot.

For those parking at Wailoa Center, the State Building, the County Buildings and on nearby mauka streets, please access the viewing area through the crosswalk at Pauahi Street.

How Can You Get To and From the Parking and Viewing Areas?

Free round trip shuttles will run to and from designated parking and viewing areas from 3:00pm to 10:00pm on July 4^th.

Shuttles are equipped with lifts to accommodate persons with disabilities.

Closures:

Roads:

· Lihiwai Street from Banyan Drive near Coconut Island to Old Isles parking lot, 2:00 am on July 4 to 10:00 a.m. on July 5.

· Bayfront Highway from Waianuenue Avenue to Wailoa Bridge, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on July 4. (No parking allowed all day.)

· Pauahi Street from Kamehameha Ave. to Bayfront Highway, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on July 4.

· Access will be restricted to Bishop Street and Piopio Street July 4, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Why Are We Closing Bayfront Highway to Vehicle Traffic from 6:00pm to 10:00pm. on July 4^th?

To allow for better fireworks viewing and more viewing area on the roadways.
To ensure the safety of viewers/pedestrians by eliminating traffic.

Tents, canopies, alcohol and fireworks are prohibited.

Why No Tents or Canopies?

To prevent accidents and injuries due to fire.
To create safer and better fireworks viewing.
To allow emergency responders to reach people needing assistance.
Tents and canopies are prohibited in state parks.

Note: Several large public rest tents will be available in designated areas.

What About Restrooms? Along with permanent facilities, portable toilets will be located throughout the areas.

Please Keep Our Hilo Town Clean: In past years, over 11 tons of litter were left by people and volunteers pitched in to pick it up.

Trash bags will be distributed by Parks and Recreation personnel on July 4^th.
Dumpsters will be located throughout the areas. Please use them.
We encourage the community to recycle at the 4th of July Celebration. Last year many recyclable bottles and other cans ended up in the trash. Please recycle this day and every day!

Contact List for Further Information:

For Traffic Closures and Parking questions: For Questions about County Park Activities:

Call: Community Policing at 961-8121 Call Roxcie Waltjen at 961-8706

For Questions about Tents and Canopies: For Questions about Shuttle Services:

Call Wayde Young at 974 6208 Call Tom Brown at 961-8343

Call Glenn Taguchi 974-6200

For Questions about Fireworks Rules:

Call Fire Inspector Jack Pacleb at 981-8370.

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July 4 Weekend – Fireworks, Alcohol Prohibited in State Parks, Harbors, Forests

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is reminding the public about safety precautions during the Fourth of July Celebration in Hilo and Kona.

“We encourage people to enjoy the parks and use them responsibly on this national holiday. To protect public safety and natural resources, we are reminding the public of the following rules that need to be observed over the Fourth of July weekend,” said DLNR chairperson Laura H. Thielen.

The consumption of alcohol and the use of fireworks are prohibited within all state parks, forest reserves, unencumbered lands and small boat harbors.

Open fires, unleashed dogs and driving on the beach in these areas are also prohibited (HAR Ch. 13-221-3, 13-22-11).

Tents, canopies, and vehicles on the grass are prohibited within the Wailoa River State Recreation Area, including areas mauka of Kamehameha Avenue to Pauahi St., and the Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, including the Waialea Bay section.

DLNR enforcement officers will make spot checks at locations statewide to ensure that all boats, personal water craft and kayaks are equipped with required safety equipment onboard, and that gear is operational and up to date. Officers may also inspect for overloading, boating under the influence, and other rules and regulations established by DLNR and Coast Guard.

As the fireworks display will be set off from Coconut Island, all vessels, thrill craft and kayaks in Hilo Bay must stay 300 yards away from Moku Ola (Coconut Island) on July 4, 2008, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

DLNR will also implement early closures, at 6 p.m., of the following west Hawaii parks on July 4: Kekaha Kai State Park, Kaulana-Mahai‘ula section and the Maniniowali section (Kua bay) and the Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, including the Waialea Bay section. The parks will reopen the next morning at normal park hours.

For more information or to report a violation, call: 974-6208 (Hilo), 327-4961 (Kona), 887-6196 (Kamuela) or 327-4961 (Kona). Or call the DLNR’s statewide 24-hour enforcement hotline at 643-DLNR.

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Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan – Meetings in Kona, Waimea & Hilo

The County of Hawai`I Solid Waste Advisory Committee invites the public to express their ideas and preferences in order to complete an update to the County’s Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan.

This plan covers all aspects of waste management on the island, including waste reduction, education, recycling, composting, collection, transfer, and disposal. There are many pressing issues to decide such as future recycling and composting programs and a long-term disposal solution for the waste left over after we recycle and reuse.

These meetings are the first in a series to be held island-wide to get public input on the plan.

The meetings will be held at:

KONA:

WHEN: Monday, July 21, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

WHERE: Kona Outdoor Circle, 76-6280 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona

WAIMEA:

WHEN: Wednesday, July 23, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

WHERE: Waimea Community Center, 65-1260 Kawaihae Road, Waimea

HILO:

WHEN: Thursday July 24, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

WHERE: Schultz Siding Training Room, 630 E. Lanikaula Street, Hilo

At these meetings, CH2M Hill, the professional engineering firm serving as consultants to the committee, will present information and ask for your feedback on the following topics:

Advantages and disadvantages of our existing system
The topics that will be included in the Plan update
Key challenges being faced by the County
Things you like about the current system and things that you wish could be improved.

Come join us in shaping the future of solid waste management on the island. We appreciate your assistance in preparing a new update to our Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan.

The meeting places are accessible to persons with disabilities. To request an Auxiliary Aid or language translation, please call 961-8270 five days prior to the meeting date.

Comments may be sent to Department of Environmental Management, 25 Aupuni Street, Hilo, Hawai`i 96720 or e-mailed to sandrade@co.hawaii.hi.us .

For more information call Mike Dworsky, Solid Waste Division Chief at 961-8515.

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Driver’s Licensing, Vehicle Inspection Move to County Finance Dept July 1

Effective July 1, 2008, the Driver’s License and Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspection Sections of the Hawai`i County Police Department will be transferred to the Finance Department.

This move will enable police officers to focus more on law enforcement issues and other police duties, while providing the public with more convenient access to licensing and vehicle registration services.

Driver’s License and Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspections have joined forces with Vehicle Registration to create the new Vehicle Registration and Licensing Division. This division is not only responsible for the day-to-day activities of vehicle registrations, driver’s license and periodic motor vehicle inspections, but is also responsible for dog, bicycle and a few select business licenses.

Along with the main offices located in Hilo and Kailua-Kona, plans include opening “one-stop shops” in Pahoa and Waimea that will offer vehicle registration and driver’s license services. Citizens will be able to complete a driver license transaction and register a motor vehicle at these Pahoa and Waimea one-stop shops without travelling to Hilo or Kailua-Kona.

The Pahoa office will be part of the new Pahoa Police Station, but will have a separate entrance for the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Division. In Waimea renovations are underway at the Parker Ranch Shopping Center for the new office. The opening dates for the “one-stop shops” are to be announced in the near future.

Limited driver licensing services will continue at the following locations: in North Kohala at the North Kohala Police Station, in Laupahoehoe at the Old Infirmary Building (at the other end of the building from the Marimed offices), and in Ka’u at the Na’alehu Police Station. Renewals, duplicates, written tests, permits, out-of-state transfers and road tests will be offered by appointment only. Phone numbers to schedule appointments will be posted at the offices and on the county website at www.co.hawaii.hi.us .

Ka`u Tuesdays and Wednesdays beginning July 7, 2008 327-3580

Laupahoehoe Wednesdays beginning July 8, 2008 961-2323

North Kohala Fridays beginning July 11, 2008 887-3087

For further information, please contact Lee Lord, Vehicle Registration and Licensing Division at 961-8021.

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Nominations Sought for 2008 Women’s Hall of Fame – Deadline August 14

The Hawaii County Committee on the Status of Women is seeking nominations for the fifth annual Women’s Hall of Fame awards to be announced at a banquet on September 6, 2008 at the Hilton Waikoloa Village Water’s Edge Ballroom.

Nominees must be a woman residing in the County of Hawaii who has made contributions and is committed to community service, is an outstanding role model to women and children, exemplifies high moral character and conduct and embodies excellence or has made significant contributions in her field of endeavor.

Nominations should be in narrative form no more than two typed pages, describing the nominee and why she should be considered for the County of Hawaii Women’s Hall of Fame. No more than five additional pages of supporting documentation (resume, curriculum vitae, news articles, letters of support) may be submitted.

The deadline for nominations is August 14, 2008.

Please contact Jean Viernes at 961-8211 or Nancy Kelly at 934-3315 for a nomination form or for further information. Completed form and narrative can be mailed to: Jean Viernes, Committee on the Status of Women at 25 Aupuni Street, Hilo, HI 96720; dropped off at the Mayor’s Office, 891 Ululani Street, Hilo; or faxed to 961-6553.

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Tire Ban at County Landfills and Transfer Stations

The Department of Environmental Management would like to advise the public that effective Thursday, June 26, 2008, pursuant to County of Hawai`i Ordinance No. 07-182, the County will prohibit the disposal of tires whether whole, cut, sliced, chipped, or shredded at both Sanitary Landfills and Island Wide Transfer Stations.

Please note that the County of Hawai`i is not collecting residential generated tires and is not accepting tires at the scrap metal yards in Hilo and Kona.

Residents needing to dispose of tires should contact Arizumi Tire Disposal or Leo’s Recycle, Inc. For residents purchasing new tires through a retailer, the tires being replaced should be left with the retailer.

For community clean up projects, please submit a request for County assistance to the Director of the Department of Environmental Management, 25 Aupuni Street, Hilo, HI 96720.

For more information on how you can dispose of tires, please call Mike Dworsky, Solid Waste Division Chief at 961-8515.

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County of Hawai`i Seeks Citizens to Work as Election Day Officials

Assisting your neighbors and fellow citizens as an Election Day official is a fun, challenging, and rewarding experience. This is your opportunity to volunteer your services to the community, and at the same time gain first-hand knowledge and experience in the electoral process.

Need A Fundraiser?

This is an excellent opportunity for your non-profit organization. Not only does your organization earn money, you are getting involved and participating in the electoral process.

When are the Elections?

2008 Primary Election: Saturday, September 20, 2008
2008 General Election: Tuesday, November 4, 2008

How Long Will I Be Working?

The polls are open from 7am to 6pm; however, precinct officials start at 5:30 am and end at 7 pm.

What Are The Minimum Qualifications?

Each precinct official must meet all of the following requirements:

Be at least 16 years old on or before June 30, 2008.
Be a registered voter in the State of Hawaii.
Able to read and write English.
Able to lift 25-35 pounds.
Attend a training session and pass a certification exam.

Will I Be Paid?

Yes. The compensation rates for each election worked for the 2008 Elections are:

Chairperson $115 - $175
Voter Asst. Official $100
Precinct Official $85
Facility Official $60 - $140

Every Vote Counts and So Does Your Help!

For information or to serve as an Election Day Official, please contact the County of Hawaii Elections Division Precinct Line at 933-1591.

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Hawai`i Island Community Group Collects Backpacks for our Homeless Neighbors

Now that school is ending for the summer, many students will be discarding their backpacks and then purchasing new ones at the start of the next school year. The Hawaii Island Leadership Series (Ulumau), a community group with members islandwide, hopes to take advantage of that with a drive to collect backpacks to donate to the homeless population of our island.

Why does this group want to give backpacks to the homeless?

Backpacks were determined to be among the items homeless individuals need most.

How many homeless people are there on this island?

The state commissioned a study, which found that in 2007 the Island of Hawai`i had 1,290 homeless individuals, including 688 in families with children. While the overall homeless population dropped two percent on the Island of Hawaii between 2005 to 2007, the number of unsheltered chronically homeless rose 25 percent, according to the 2007 Point-in-Time Count, published by the state’s Hawai`i Public Housing Authority Homeless Programs Branch.

Do any of the unsheltered homeless include children?

Yes. The unsheltered individuals in families with children numbered 534, while the number of sheltered individuals in families with children was 154.

How do I donate a backpack?

You may drop it off either with a School Resource Officer at your school or at any police station on the island. The Hawaii Island Leadership Series (Ulumau) is partnering with the Office for Social Ministries, which will distribute the backpacks to homeless persons in need.

What is The Hawaii Island Leadership Series (Ulumau)?

It is an organization of government and community members who work to provide leadership for confronting the needs of the community. For more information please go to www.ulumau.org .

What do I do if I have any questions about this initiative?

You may call Deputy Police Chief Harry Kubojiri at 961-2244 or Brandee Cachola Menino, Homeless Programs Manager for the Office for Social Ministries, at 935-3050, extension 113.

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County Seeks Applicants for Two Vacancies on Ethics Board

The County of Hawai`i is seeking applicants for two immediate vacancies on the Board of Ethics. The Board has a total of five at-large members (not pegged to Council districts), so anyone can apply.

The Board of Ethics is one of the major boards in our County, vested with tremendous responsibility.

Interested applicants can complete and submit the "Application for Hawaii County Boards and Commissions" found at the following web site: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/mayor/boards_&_commissions.htm

You may also pick up an application at the Mayor’s Office at 891 Ululani Street, Hilo 96720 or the Kona mayor’s office at Hanama Place, 75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 103, Kailua-Kona 96750. Applications may also be found on line at www.hawaii-county.com , after clicking on the board/commission link.

Upon completing the application, you may drop off or mail the application to either of the above addresses or to Lincoln Ashida, Corporation Counsel at Hilo Lagoon Centre, 101 Aupuni Street, Suite 325, Hilo 96720. Phone: (808) 961-8304, extension 118, or via email at Lashida@co.hawaii.hi.us .

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Brochure on Emissions from Kilauea Volcano Available Online

An updated version of the County’s brochure on Emissions from Kilauea Volcano, dated April 2008, is now available online. It was emailed to all County Newsletter subscribers earlier this week.

The link to the brochure, which gives a brief summary of hazards and protective measures regarding sulfur dioxide (SO2) and volcanic ash emissions can be found on the lava information webpage at www.lavainfo.us . Scroll down and click on Emissions from Kilauea Volcano Brochure.

The brochure gives color-coded levels of sulfur dioxide conditions, ranging from green (trace) to purple (extreme), with recommended responses accordingly.

The volcanic conditions are being closely monitored and if any changes occur that might affect your safety, you will be informed. For further information, please call Hawai`i County Civil Defense at 935-0031 or visit the Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory’s eruption updates online, please click on http://lavainfo.us/ .

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Kalapana Safe Viewing Program Has Daily Telephone Hotline Updates

Hawai`i County Civil Defense has set up a new telephone hotline to provide daily updates on viewing at the Kalapana Safe Viewing site.

The lava hotline phone number is 961-8093, which lets you know the lava viewing hours for the day ahead. The lava hotline automated message is updated every day at 10 a.m.

The Kalapana Safe Viewing program at the volcanic eruption site is a wonderful natural attraction, and the County Civil Defense Agency wants all visitors to enjoy the experience in safety and comfort.

With that in mind, we encourage visitors to prepare not only for sunny days at the lava viewing sight but also for rain. Please note that there are no shelters at the site in case of rain.

For your comfort and convenience, please prepare for rain keeping in mind any trip hazard:

· An umbrella and/or

· Windbreaker or raincoat

Visitors are also strongly advised to take the following gear for both safety and comfort:

· Bottled water (2-3 quarts or liters per person)

· Sturdy closed boots or shoes and socks

· Flashlight (1 per person) and fresh batteries

· Long pants

· Sun hat and sunscreen

· Binoculars (optional)

Visitors are allowed entry to the viewing area every day from 2 p.m., with the last vehicles admitted at 8:00 p.m. This will allow officials to ensure that everybody is out of the area by 10 p.m. The viewing area is closed between 10 pm and 2 pm. This schedule is subject to change; hazardous conditions may require changes to the schedule or closure.

Visitors are reminded to obey all the warning signs and stay within the allowed areas to ensure their safety. The newly formed lava and black sand beach are extremely unstable, and can collapse into the ocean at any time. Visitors must stay well away from the volcanic steam clouds which contain hydrochloric acid and glass particles.

Please note: There is no cell phone coverage in the viewing area.

We ask that visitors show the greatest courtesy and respect to the local residents and property owners. Please remember never to go off the road or trail, and please dispose of all trash in the garbage cans provided. Guide/interpreters will be on hand in the viewing area to provide information and assistance. For more information, please call Civil Defense at 935-0031.

For the Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory’s eruption updates online, please click on http://lavainfo.us/ .

The Big Island Visitors Bureau has created a new section of its website with all of the information we've been trying to get out to the public. Click on http://www.bigisland.org/parks/939/volcano-eruption-update .

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Talk Story Meetings on Queen Ka`ahumanu Hwy Project - Update

The public is cordially invited to a twice-monthly update on the Queen Ka`ahumanu Highway widening project every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at 7:30 a.m. at the Kona Mayor’s West Hawai`i Office conference room at Hanama Place. Light refreshments will be served.

WHEN: 7:30 a.m. Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month.

WHERE: Kona Mayor’s West Hawai`i Office conference room, Hanama Place.

Phase 1 of the Queen Kaahumanu Highway Widening involves widening the existing two-lane highway to four-lanes with a median divider from Henry Street to Kealakehe Parkway. The widened highway will alleviate traffic congestion and improve traffic circulation through Kona. The project started July 2005 and is planned for completion in December 2008.

The State Department of Transportation (HDOT) advises Big Island motorists that paving work continues from Palani Road to Makala Boulevard and next from Makala Boulevard to Police Station Road, in the two out-bound lanes. Preparation of roadway for paving from Makala Boulevard to Kealakehe Parkway began April 8, 2008. The opening of the two out-bound lanes from Palani Road to Kealakehe Parkway is expected in the summer.

The meeting place is accessible for persons with disabilities. Persons who need special accommodations for this meeting should call 329-5226.

For more information, please contact Mr. Sterling Chow, HDOT Construction Engineer, at 933-8866 or Mr. Dennis Lee, M&E Pacific Resident Engineer, at 326-2035.

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Water Conservation Notice in Hakalau, Wailea Areas

Due to repairs of the Hakalau Iki Spring Source, the Department of Water Supply urges consumers entire Hakalau and Wailea Areas of South Hilo to conserve water while the repairs are being made. Water Conservation Notice is a voluntary action to reduce water usage by 10%.

For customers in the affected area of the Water Conservation Notice, a list of ways to reach the 10% reduction goal is provided:

· Wash full loads of laundry only.

· Wash full loads of dishes only.

· Serve drinking water only when requested.

· Do not let the faucet run unnecessarily.

· When bathing, use water only to wet and rinse off.

· Do not fill up the bathtub.

· Use a glass to rinse when brushing your teeth.

· Do not flush toilets unnecessarily.

· Stop lawn sprinkling.

· Stop car and boat washing.

· Stop dust control watering.

· Use drinking water wisely.

Agricultural users shall irrigate only at night from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. This measure will reduce water loss due to evaporation and minimize water system drain during peak demand.

Should you have questions or concerns, please contact Elaine Chiu of the Department of Water Supply at 961-8790.

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Federal Govt Assistance for Consumers to Convert to Digital TV

The following information comes from Mary Lou Kenny, the Partnership Manager for the TV Converter Box Coupon Program being managed by the US Department of Commerce/National Telecommunications & Information Administration.

After February 17, 2009, all full-power television stations will broadcast only in digital. More than 20 million households have a television set receiving over-the-air (analog) signals. About 13.5 million of these households rely on over-the-air broadcast to receive their TV programs while another 9 million households have cable and satellite service but also have at least one broadcast-only television set in the house.

Why is the digital transition happening?

Broadcasters are transitioning to digital to provide important benefits to consumers. Because digital broadcasting is more efficient, broadcasters require less of the airwaves to provide a better television viewing experience.

Once the DTV transition is completed, some television channels will be turned over to fire and police departments for emergency communication and others will be auctioned to companies to provide new wireless services.

Who relies on over-the-air TV?

Individuals who on average are more reliant on over-the-air television include:

Seniors
The economically disadvantaged
Rural residents
Minorities
People with disabilities.

Federal program offers financial assistance to make the conversion to digital TV

There is a Federal Government financial assistance program designed to help consumers make the digital transition.

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, is operating the TV Converter Box Coupon Program at the direction of Congress.

Since the program began on January 1, 2008 Hawai`i consumers have applied for 13,787 coupons, but that is a small portion of those who need assistance.

What is the DTV Converter Coupon program?

The DTV Converter Coupon Program is the only program designed to ensure that every household continues to receive television service after the conversion to digital transmission.

For many people, television is more than simply entertainment. For seniors and the homebound, it is a social network and in many cases provides lifeline services.

Recent immigrants use it both for education and as a tool to learn English. All of us use it in weather emergencies to plan for the safety of our families and property.

In emergencies and disasters, television is a national unifier. We want the Hawai`i County community to know that financial assistance is available to make the conversion and maintain your existing television service.

February 17, 2009 is when the switchover to digital TV happens

Consumers who use “rabbit ears” or a rooftop antenna with an analog television need to take action before February 17, 2009, to continue receiving television broadcasts.

Will my TV work after February 17, 2009?

Analog television sets receiving free TV using an antenna will not work after February 17, 2009. Television viewers with these sets that are not connected to a pay TV service will need to take action before February 17, 2009, to ensure their TV sets continue to work.

What is a TV converter box?

A TV converter box is a new product available in early 2008 that plugs into your analog TV and, along with your antenna, will keep your analog set working after February 17, 2009. A TV converter box is a one-time purchase and is expected to cost between $50 and $70. A TV connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV service does not require a TV converter box from this program.

How do I install a TV converter box?

Converter boxes plug into TV sets, either in the back or front, depending on your TV. You will still need your antenna, which works with the TV converter box.

Each TV converter box will come with installation instructions from the manufacturer. You should be able to install the converter box using the instructions provided by the manufacturer. For specific questions, you should ask your retailer or call the manufacturer’s technical support hotline. A generic “Quick Start Guide” and installation video are available at www.DigitalTips.org .

How does the TV Converter Box Coupon program work?

The Federal Government created the TV Converter Box Coupon Program for households wishing to keep using their analog TV sets after February 17, 2009.

The Program allows U.S. households to obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40, that can be applied toward the cost of eligible converter boxes. Consumers must complete and submit an application to receive the coupons.

Where Can I Apply for the Coupon?

By phone: 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009)

TTY: 1-877-530-2634

Online: www.DTV2009.gov

By mail: DTV-2009, P.O. Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000.

Where can I find the information about applying for the TV converter box coupons?

You can visit the website that includes all the materials you will need to inform your members about the transition and how to apply for the coupon. Please visit the partner section at www.DTV2009.gov .

Or for more information, please contact:

Kathie Klass, Ombudsman

Television Converter Coupon Program

National Telecommunications & Information Administration

Department of Commerce

1-(202) 482-4728

KKlass@ntia.doc.gov

For Frequently Asked Questions about the Coupon Program, visit www.DTV2009.gov .

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Dept of Environmental Management Solid Waste Projects Update

The following is a list of current and upcoming projects at our Solid Waste Transfer Stations and Baseyards. These projects address safety concerns, general repair and maintenance, environmental issues and Department of Health regulations.

All project dates may be subject to change without notice due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Location of Project	Council District	Work being done
Laupahoehoe Transfer Station	1	Fence and gate installation, in progress
Hilo Regional Transfer Stations	1,2,3,4,5,6	In progress
Kona Regional Transfer Stations	6,7,8	In progress
Ka`auhuhu Transfer Station	9	Earthquake repairs, contract awarded
Kalapana Transfer Station	5	Fence repair, out to bid
Waimea Transfer Station	9	Kiholo Bay earthquake repairs, out to bid

For further information, please contact Terin Gloor, Solid Waste Civil Engineer at 961-8058.

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County Seeks Applicants for Arborist Advisory Committee Vacancy

The County of Hawai`i is seeking applicants for a vacancy on the Arborist Advisory Committee.

The County wants to fill the vacancy with someone from the west or north areas of Hawai`i Island who has an interest in community beautification and the protection of island's exceptional trees.

Interested applicants can complete and submit the "Application for Hawaii County Boards and Commissions" found at the following web site: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/mayor/boards_&_commissions.htm

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County Seeks Applicants for Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee

The County of Hawai`i is seeking applicants for a vacancy on the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee.

The County wants to fill the vacancy with someone who has an interest in bicycle paths, cycling and pedestrian safety on our island.

Interested applicants can complete and submit the "Application for Hawaii County Boards and Commissions" found at the following web site: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/mayor/boards_&_commissions.htm