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October 24, 2008
Hawai`i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
FEATURE ARTICLE
· Ground-Breaking Blessing of West Hawai`i Civic Center October 25
COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD
· Hawai`i Broadcast TV Stations to Go All Digital on January 15
· Federal Government Assistance for Consumers to Convert to Digital TV
· County Promotes Pedestrian Safety with Reflective Trick or Treat Bags
· Register for County’s New Mass Notification System
· New Winter Hours at Hawai`i County Transfer Stations from Nov 1
· Water Conservation in Rural South Hilo
· County Coqui Frog Spray Service Available
· Hawai`i County Unveils Prescription Drug Discount Card Program
· Kokua Kailua – Enjoy Music at Hulihe’e Palace and Shop, Dine, Buy Local in Kailua Village
· County Seeks Applicants for Two Vacancies on Ethics Board
· Brochure on Emissions from Kilauea Volcano Available Online
· Kalapana Safe Viewing Program Has Daily Telephone Hotline Updates
· Talk Story Meetings on Queen Ka`ahumanu Hwy Project -- Update
· Water Conservation Notice in Hakalau, Wailea Areas
· Dept of Environmental Management Solid Waste Projects Update
· County Seeks Applicants for Arborist Advisory Committee Vacancy
· County Seeks Applicants for Public Access, Salary Commission Vacancies
· Vacancies on the County’s Boards and Commissions
· Recycle your Old TVs and Other Electronic Waste in East and West Hawai`i
· Redemption Centers – Locations and Hours of Operation
COMMUNITIES IN ACTION
· Apply for Hawai`i Youth Conservation Corps Internships by Oct 31
· Hiroshima Exhibition at Hawai`i Japanese Center through Oct 31
· Free E-Waste Disposal Events at UHH and Kealakehe High on Oct 24, 25
· Grand Opening of Hilo Medical Center’s New Emergency Room Oct 28
· 8th Annual Black & White Night in Downtown Hilo November 7
· North Kohala Community Development Plan Meeting November 12
· Hunger and Homeless Awareness Event at Old Kona Airport Park Nov 20
· Hawaii HomeOwnership Holds Free Orientations in Hilo and Kona
· Final Public Meeting of Hilo Bayfront Trails Planning Project Dec 10
· Earth Patriot Hip Hop Dance Competition Entry Deadline January 5
· Healing Our Island Community Fund Mini-Grants Available
· High-Quality Mulch Available at Kealakehe Transfer Station
· Check Out our County’s Community Development Plan Website
TRAFFIC ALERT
· New Traffic Light at Mohouli and Kumukoa from Week of Oct 27
· Repairs of Damage from 2007 Floods in Ka`u Start This Month
· Shoulder Work for Fiber-Optic Cable Project in Kawaihae
· Got Junk Cars? County of Hawai`i Can Help
FEATURE ARTICLES
Ground-breaking Blessing of West Hawai`i Civic Center Oct 25
The Hawai`i Island community is cordially invited to the ground-breaking blessing of the West Hawai`i Civic Center on Saturday, October 25 at the construction site on Kealakehe Parkway in Kona.
Come join us for the blessing which begins at 10:30 am, with refreshments and a light lunch to follow.
WHERE: The construction site on Kealakehe Parkway in Kona
WHEN: Saturday, October 25, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm.
The event is sponsored by Councilman K. Angel Pilago, La`i`opua 2020, Hawai`i Land Care, Kealakehe High School, Family Career & Community Leaders of America, Maryl Group, Inc., Kaniohale Community Association, Na Wai Iwi Ola Foundation, Pa’ani Pila and G & C Hog Farm.
This project in Kealakehe, North Kona will create an 85,000 square foot complex housing 22 agencies and more than 200 staff, and is designed to be a one-stop facility offering County services in West Hawai`i.
This $50.5 million project, whose construction and maintenance will provide much-needed employment for our residents, is slated to open to the public in 2011. Full build-out of the center is expected by 2037.
In-kind donations from individuals and corporations include two pigs, fresh ulu (breadfruit), flowers and exotic fruit from local growers, bottled water, tents, chairs, portable toilets, paper goods, ice and two generators.
The food will be prepared and served by Kealakehe High School Chapter Family Career and Community Leaders of America. A shave ice stand will be operated by County staff.
The ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m. with a traditional Hawaiian blessing by Kahu Keala Ching, followed by lunch and local entertainment. The blessing will take place at the intersection of Kealakehe Parkway and Ane Keohokalole. The event concludes at 1:30 p.m.
Children attending the ceremony will each receive a reflective trick or treat bag filled with goodies.
Directions to the future West Hawai`i Civic Center: turn on to the Kealakehe Parkway from Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway. The ground blessing will take place under the tent, about half way up Kealakehe Parkway.
Attendees are asked wear comfortable shoes as this is a construction area. Please remember to wear a hat as protection against the sun.
Parking will be allowed on the side streets near the site. Please follow signs to site and parking area.
Please note that Ane Keohokalole Highway will be closed to through traffic to allow on street parking. Individuals who require extra assistance will be guided by County staff. Parking is prohibited on Kealakehe Parkway.
For more information, contact Barbara Shim Kossow, Deputy Managing Director, Mayor's Kona Office at 329-5226.
COUNTY BULLETIN BOARD
Hawai’i Broadcast TV Stations to Go All-Digital on Jan 15
Hawai’i stations will cease analog broadcasting on January 15, 2009, one month before the rest of the country, according to the Hawaii Association of Broadcasters (HAB).
The Hawaii Association of Broadcasters announced that all full power (broadcast) television stations in Hawai’i will make the transition to digital television (DTV) one month before the nationwide transition to DTV on February 17, 2009.
The full-power broadcasters serving the Hawai’i television market have voluntarily agreed to cease regular analog broadcasts at noon on January 15, 2009. Beginning at 12:00 Noon on January 15, 2009, Hawaii’s full power stations will broadcast only digital signals to their viewers in Hawai’i County, Maui County and the City and County of Honolulu.
Kaua’i County is served by low-power translators and will not make the transition to DTV on that date. Televisions connected to cable, satellite, or other pay services are not affected by the transition and will continue to receive programs after January 15, 2009.
“Hawai’i’s early transition was prompted by consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service where they recommended that Hawai’i broadcasters deconstruct their present Maui analog facilities prior to mid-February to avoid the Hawaiian petrel breeding season in that area,” said Mike Rosenberg, President & GM of KITV.
“The early transition to DTV has the support and attention of Senator Daniel Inouye, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the Federal Communications Commission, the National Association of Broadcasters, the Hawaii Association of Broadcasters and its member stations in a focused effort to educate the public about the transition,” said Chris Leonard, President of the Hawaii Association of Broadcasters.
Hawai`i will also serve as a model for the rest of nation as the rest of the nation makes the transition to digital TV in February, Leonard added.
“I am pleased that Hawai’i’s broadcasters have volunteered to lead the nation in the transition from analog to digital television,” said Senator Inouye. “The prospect of digital television is exciting and I am delighted that ours will be the first state to realize its benefits.
The senator said the digital transition will bring consumers better pictures with sharper sound while at the same time freeing up new airwaves to improve communications for our emergency first responders. He asked that the community help each other to prepare for the transition.
“If you have a family member, friend, or neighbor who relies on over-the-air television, and may need some assistance with obtaining converter boxes or connecting the boxes to the television in their home, please reach out to them and offer your help, “ said Senator Inouye.
Education efforts over the airwaves will send viewers looking for more information to the Web site www.HawaiiGoesDigital.com , and the FCC’s toll free number 1-888-CALL-FCC.
Efforts will also be focused on promoting the federal government’s converter box coupon program, which thus far has had a relatively low take-up rate in Hawai’i. Viewers can request up to two $40 coupons that can be used toward the purchase of a converter boxes by calling 1-888-DTV-2009 or online at www.dtv2009.gov .
For more information about Hawai’i’s early switch to digital, contact Chris Leonard at chris@kwxx.com or (808) 935-5461, Mike Rosenberg at mike@kitv.com or (808)535-0206 or Mary Diamond at mary.diamond@fcc.gov or (202) 418-2388.
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 January 15, 2009 all full-power television stations in Hawai`i will broadcast only in digital. In the rest of the United States, the transition to digital TV will take place on February 17, 2009.
Nationwide, 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.
In Hawai`i, January 15, 2009 is when the switchover to digital TV happens
Hawai`i consumers who use “rabbit ears” or a rooftop antenna with an analog television need to take action before January 15, 2009, to continue receiving television broadcasts.
Will my TV work after January 15, 2009?
Analog television sets receiving free TV using an antenna will not work after January 15, 2009. Television viewers with these sets that are not connected to a pay TV service will need to take action before January 15, 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 January 15, 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 January 15, 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
For Frequently Asked Questions about the Coupon Program, visit www.DTV2009.gov .
County Promotes Halloween Safety with Reflective Trick-or-Treat Bags
Hawai`i Island schoolchildren from kindergarten to fifth grade will receive a reflective Halloween trick-or-treat bag from the County’s Traffic Division as part of its Halloween safety program. The division will distribute 13,000 bags to charter, public and private school students between October 14 and October 29.
The reflective bags are imprinted with safety messages from talking ghosts and a smiling orange pumpkin to remind youngsters to watch for cars, stay in well-lit areas and not go out trick-or-treating alone.
To assure well-lit streets for trick-or-treaters, the County is asking for the community’s assistance in identifying streetlights that are malfunctioning. Bulbs can burn out, which means the light will not activate at dusk, or the sensor can malfunction and the light can remain on all day.
If a streetlight in your neighborhood stays lit all day or does not light at night, please call the Traffic Division of Public Works weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 961-8341 with the following information:
- The streetlight pole number. This is easily spotted from a car. It is a large silver number located six to seven feet up on the side of the streetlight pole.
- It is also helpful if you know the street or highway name and a well-known landmark.
It may take up to three weeks before malfunctioning streetlights are repaired.
Register for County’s New Mass Emergency Notification System
The Hawai`i County Civil Defense Agency has just acquired a new Mass Emergency Notification System, which allows for County agencies to easily notify the public in the event of emergencies.
The City Watch is an electronic notification system that can notify residents about evacuations or other emergency measures via phone or email.
“This new system allows us more flexibility and speed to notify communities of an impending or imminent emergency, with appropriate measures for residents to follow,” said Civil Defense Administrator Quince Mento.
It will supplement the more traditional means of communicating with the public such as radio broadcasts.
The system was purchased by State Civil Defense and was given to the County as a pilot project, Mento said. The system uses maps with registered residents’ phone numbers and addresses to target specific communities on the island.
“We can use a computer generated map to focus on say, Waikoloa or Puako, to alert residents to evacuate in the event of a brush fire,” Mento said.
The system once activated sends residents registered on the system a brief voice and email message. “This system will only be activated in major emergencies,” Mento said.
Residents need to register for the notification messages
Hawai’i County residents need to register for City Watch notification messages by either mailing their contact information to: County of Hawai`i Civil Defense Agency, 920 Ululani Street, Hilo, HI 96720, or online at http://www.citywatchonline.com/CSBSignUp/HawaiiSignUp.asp .
To register, please give your name, street address (no p.o. boxes, please), city, zip code, home phone, cell phone, cell phone carrier and email address. The service is free to all residents.
Note: If your phone number is listed in the phone book white pages, you will be automatically registered for City Watch. However, if your listed phone number is on a “do not call list” such as the National Do Not Call Registry, you will need to register the number.
Cell phone users will need to register their numbers, and all residents wishing to be contacted by email must register their email addresses.
The pilot stage of the project will be free to the County, and in subsequent years the County will pay an annual fee of approximately $40,000. The system is used in numerous communities, notably in California amid the recent spate of wildfires.
Winter Hours for County Transfer Stations from Nov 1
Due to the shorter winter hours of daylight and concerns for the safety of all our residents, all County of Hawai`i Solid Waste Transfer Stations except the Hilo Transfer Station will close at 6:00 pm beginning Saturday, November 1, 2008, through March 1, 2009. The new hours of operation will be from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.
(Note: Hilo Transfer Station hours will remain 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
Please note that the Big Island transfer stations are permitted for collection of household refuse only. Commercial haulers and residents with large loads need to take their refuse to the South Hilo or West Hawai`i Sanitary Landfills.
We appreciate your cooperation.
For more information please call Bobby Gonsalves, Solid Waste Operations Superintendent at 961-8514.
Water Conservation in Rural South Hilo Amid Dry Weather
Due to continuing dry weather conditions, the Department of Water Supply urges consumers in the Affected Area to conserve water.
The affected areas: Upper Ka‘ie‘ie area in Papa‘ikou along and immediately surrounding Ka‘ie‘ie Road and from Homestead Road to Upper Ka‘ie‘ie in South Hilo.
This Water Conservation Notice calls for 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 only 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 any questions or concerns, please contact Clyde Young of the Department of Water Supply at 961-8790.
County Coqui Frog Spray Service Available
The County is providing one-time spray treatments to property owners for coqui frog control. The program assists owners with a spray treatment by the County crew with a 400-gallon trailer sprayer.
Owner permission is required before services can be performed, so the County is responding to owner requests only.
For further information or to request a spray treatment, please call 961-8065.
Hawai`i County Unveils Prescription Drug Discount Card
The following information is courtesy of the Hawai`i County Council, which helped arrange for this program through the National Association of Counties (NACo).
The Hawai`i County Council has announced the introduction of a discount card program to help Hawai`i County residents cope with the high cost of prescription drugs. The program began September 1, 2008.
The County is making free prescription drug discount cards available under a program sponsored by the National Association of Counties (NACo) that offers average savings of 20 percent off the retail price of commonly prescribed drugs.
Who is eligible to use the discount card?
It’s one card per person.
The cards may be used by all Hawai`i County residents, regardless of age, income, or existing health coverage, and are accepted by nearly all the island’s pharmacies.
In addition, a national network of more than 59,000 participating retail pharmacies, including many Neighbor Island pharmacies, will honor the NACo prescription discount card.
Best of all, there is no cost to our taxpayers for NACo and the County to make these money-saving cards available to residents.
Who may benefit from using this card?
The prescription drug discount card can be used anytime a prescription is not covered by insurance.
Those who may benefit include the uninsured, underinsured, and Medicare Plan D participants for non-covered drugs.
The discount card can be used to pay for meds not covered by your insurance plan (i.e. prescription meds you would have to pay out of pocket.)
Can I use my insurance and the discount card on the same purchase?
You cannot use your insurance and the discount card on the same purchase. However, you can choose whichever gives you the better price.
Call CVS-Caremark at 1-877-321-2652 to get an estimated price using the discount card on a particular prescription. Then you can compare prices before going to the pharmacy.
The prescription card is activated the first time it’s used at the pharmacy. The person’s name and ID number are joined for the first time, for ease in processing thereafter.
Pet prescriptions may also be covered
Residents may also save on prescriptions for their pets. If a pet is prescribed a medicine that is also used to treat human conditions (such as antibiotics), the pet owner may save by using the prescription discount card. Simply ask the veterinarian to write a prescription and present it at a participating pharmacy, along with the prescription discount card.
The pet owner will pay either a discount price or the retail pharmacy’s regular retail price, whichever is lower.
How do I get a discount card?
Cards will be available at the County Clerk’s’ Office, the Mayor’s Office in Hilo and Kona and at all County Council Offices.
Cards are also available at the RSVP desk in the lobby of the County building at 101 Pauahi Street, in Hilo, the Office of Aging at Hilo Lagoon building and Coordinated Services for the Elderly in Hilo and Kona.
What pharmacies are participating in the program so far?
The following Big Island pharmacies are currently participating in this program:
- Costco Pharmacy
- Foodland Medicine Cabinet
- Hilo Pharmacy
- K Mart Pharmacy
- Kamehameha Pharmacy
- KTA Pharmacy
- Longs Drug
- Malama Compounding Pharmacy
- Mina Pharmacy
- Oshima Drug
- Pahoa RX Pharmacy
- Pharmerica 4237
- Puna Pharmacy
- Safeway
- Shiigi Drug Company
- Ululani Pharmacy
- Village Pharmacy-Waimea, LLC
- Waikoloa Pharmacy
- Wal Mart Pharmacy
- Windward Pharmacy
**The above is a preliminary list; pharmacies not listed here may subsequently opt to participate.
The discount card program is administered by Caremark Rx, Inc. Big Island residents can get more information about the program by:
- Calling Caremark toll free at 1-877-321-2652
- Going online at www.caremark.com/naco .
NACo is a national organization that represents county governments in the United States. Founded in 1935, NACo provides essential services to the nation’s 3,600 counties.
NACo advances issues with a unified voice before the federal government, improves the public’s understanding of county government, assists counties in finding and sharing innovative solutions through education and research, and provides value-added services to save counties and taxpayers’ money.
Kokua Kailua – Enjoy Concerts and Shop, Dine, Buy Local in Kailua Village
A resourceful Kokua Kailua campaign has been created to encourage residents to enjoy the offerings found within Kailua Village. Sponsored by the Kailua Village Business Improvement District, the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Destination Kona Coast and the Kailua Village Merchants Association, Kokua Kailua is designed to rally support for merchants and restaurants affected by the economic downturn and to remind residents to shop, dine and buy local.
Offering a series of monthly celebrations with musicians, artists and merchants, Kokua Kailua is working in conjunction with the successful Hulihee Palace concerts. For each monthly Hulihee Palace Concert & Village Stroll event, Ali`i Drive will be turned into a pedestrian mall from 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Concert attendees are encouraged to stay for an after-concert Village Stroll. Musicians and artists will take to the street in a fun, festive, family event where residents can listen to music, experience creativity at art demonstrations, shop for special items and dine at nearby restaurants.
While you’re in Kailua Village, come to the Hulihe`e Palace Sunday Concert Series, featuring free Hawaiian music concerts featuring local musicians and artists on the Hulihe`e Palace south lawn at 4:00 p.m. the following Sundays:
- November 16
- December 21
For your comfort, bring your own beach mat or chair.
After the concert, take a stroll through Kailua Village and enjoy our outdoor cafés and restaurants, with special kama`aina pricing at participating restaurants and merchants.
For more information contact Marie Aguilar at 334-0562 or Inde Coggin at 329-9694.
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 Hawai`i 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 .
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.
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/ .
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 .
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 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.
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.
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 |
Ka`auhuhu Transfer Station |
9 |
Earthquake repairs, in progress |
Kalapana Transfer Station |
5 |
Fence repair, in progress |
Pahala Transfer Station |
6 |
Installation of fence and gates |
Kea`au Transfer Station |
3 |
New glasscrete pad for HI5 |
For further information, please contact Terin Gloor, Solid Waste Civil Engineer at 961-8058.
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 Hawai`i 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 .
County Seeks Applicants for Public Access, Salary Commission Vacancies
The County of Hawai`i is seeking civic-minded applicants to fill vacancies on County commissions. Citizens have the opportunity to serve on important boards and commissions that make decisions which affect the quality of life on our island, and determine the future for generations to come.
The following commissions currently have vacancies:
· Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission: Vacancies in District 1 (represented by Council member Dominic Yagong) and District 3 vacancy (represented by Council member J Yoshimoto)
· Salary Commission: Vacancies in District 4 (represented by Council member Stacy Higa), District 5 (represented by Council member Emily Naeole), District 6 (represented by Council member Bob Jacobson).
The Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission, commonly known as the “Open Space Commission,” is charged with developing and maintaining a prioritized list of qualifying lands within the County worthy of preservation, and to make annual recommendations to the Mayor and County Council regarding those properties. This commission includes nine members appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the Council.
The Salary Commission reviews and compensates all County elected officials and appointed directors and deputy directors so that their total salaries and benefits have a reasonable relationship to compensation in the public and private sectors. The Salary Commission consults with those boards and commissions which have appointing authority for department heads.
Volunteering for commissions normally takes no more than one day a month, and a few hours a month in preparation time. You will have the satisfaction of knowing you have served your community and played a part in shaping the future of our island.
To apply, you may 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 .
Seeking Applicants to Vacancies on County’s Boards and Commissions
The County of Hawai`i is seeking applicants from our community to the following Boards and Commissions which currently have vacancies:
1. Committee on Aging: Two vacancies; one in Kohala and one in Ka`u.
2. Arborist Advisory Committee: One vacancy (at-large).
3. Family Violence Advisory Committee: Presently not empanelled; we intend on doing so, so there are many vacancies (all at large).
4. Fire Board of Appeals: Five vacancies (all at-large).
5. Highway Safety Council: Four vacancies (all at-large).
6. Kailua Village Design Committee: Three vacancies.
7. Pension Board: One vacancy (at-large).
8. Salary Commission: Three vacancies; Council Districts 4, 5 and 6.
9. Transportation Commission: Two vacancies; Council Districts 1 and 4.
10. Veterans Advisory Committee: Four vacancies.
11. Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission: One vacancy (Council District 3).
12. Fire Commission: Two vacancies; Council Districts 3 and 5.
13. Environmental Management Commission: One vacancy, Council District 3. Two vacancies, Council Districts 1 and 4 as of December 31, 2008.
To apply, you may 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. 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.
If you have any questions, please call Lincoln Ashida at 961-8251.
The Ikuo Hisaoka Gymnasium, a County Parks and Recreation facility in Kamehameha Park in Kapa`au, North Kohala, sustained major structural damage during the October 15, 2006 earthquake.
Extent of the damage
The connections where several of the building’s concrete columns join the steel roof framing were compromised by a loss of concrete around the anchor bolts connecting the two components.
The earthquake also damaged much of the suspended ceiling and many of the facility’s light fixtures. Other damage included broken plumbing fixtures, cracking of walls and broken tiles.
Where are we now on the Hisaoka Gym repair project?
Here are the most recent and upcoming developments, according to the Department of Parks and Recreation:
On Friday, October 10, 2008, the County (the Director of Public Works with support from the Department of Parks & Recreation) determined that the prudent action to take on the project was to cancel the current bid and immediately re-bid the project.
Since the bid opening on September 4th, we have been working closely with the apparent low bidder, BRK Construction, to determine the validity of its submitted bid and supporting documentation. In that time, we have been seeking advice and recommendations from the State's Contractors Licensing Board, the County's Corporation Counsel, the County's Purchasing Agent and numerous staff project managers to determine the appropriate course of action to take and to resolve specific matters pertaining to the award. We were also in the process of seeking clarification on the State's procurement law with the State Procurement Office for guidance on future incidents of this nature - should they occur.
At issue is the apparent low bidder's failure to list appropriately licensed subcontractors for specialty classification work required for the project in compliance with state law and whether the 1% exception provided by state law on subcontractor listing can be applied as is allowed the Director's discretion (in this case, the Director of Public Works). The numerous conversations on the topic revealed grey areas with respect to interpretation and application of the State's procurement code, wording in the county's bid documents, as well as contractor licensing issues that were not readily resolvable. In consideration of those grey areas, it was the County's decision that risking a formal protest that may arise out of proceeding with an award to the apparent low bidder was too great a risk - potentially resulting in a project stalled until resolved to the satisfaction of the protestor, which could mean months of potential litigation with an uncertain outcome. Also, the price difference between the apparent low bidder and apparent second low bidder, $437,239 for the base bid alone or $534,762 for the complete project is too great a disparity. What could also potentially complicate the decision to award to the apparent second lowest bidder is that funding for the project is primarily coming from the County's insurer, AIG, and the majority of the balance from FEMA, so they could potentially have problems funding the project at the higher cost due to the aforementioned "grey areas".
We have already contacted our architect to implement relabeling of the bid documents (plans and specifications) as required for the project's new bid process and are working with the Department of Public Works to schedule the new bid's advertising, required pre-bid conference, and bid opening dates and getting quotes for printing of the new bid documents. We are simultaneously working on the necessary paperwork to cancel the previous bid and on repackaging the documents for the new bid. When we have prepared a new timeline for the project we will issue via email for everyone's information and reference.
While we are aware that this will not be welcome news in North Kohala (or anywhere else), we assure you all that this decision was made in the best interests of the project's timeline, sources of funds and procurement matters as well as in fairness to the bidders that originally bid the project. We are putting all of our available resources into assisting with expediting the re-bid process.
For further information, please contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at 961-8311.
Here are three Green Tips for Halloween:
- Make your own costume or buy a costume that is reusable. Design a costume out of household materials or buy a costume that can be inconspicuously converted into a day-to-day outfit.
- Give the kids a reusable bag for candy. A pillowcase works. They can also use a reusable grocery bag.
- Grow your own pumpkins or buy locally-produced pumpkins. This will reduce pumpkin-shipping emissions. Compost your old pumpkins when you are done.
For more information, please contact the West Hawai`i Recycling Office at akang@co.hawaii.hi.us or 327-3706.
Mahalo for your kokua in recycling!
Recycle your Old TVs and Other Electronic Waste in East and West Hawai`i
Bring your old televisions, computer monitors and other electronic waste to drop-off locations in East and West Hawai`i.
The drop-off locations are as follows:
· East Hawai`i: Bayside Computer Shop, 108 Kalakaua Street, Hilo. Phone: 934-7748
· West Hawai`i: Kona CompuCycle, Kaloko Business Center (below Costco Parking Lot), 75-5580 Maiau Street, Bay #8, Kailua-Kona. Phone: 326-9695.
**Note: Please call the above locations first before dropping off items.
Residents may drop off the following electronic waste items for free: (Businesses: $0.55 per pound recycle fee).
· Televisions
· Computer monitors
· Cell phones and telephones
· DVDs/VCRs
· Inkjet, Laser and Toner cartridges
· Microwave ovens
· Fax machines and copiers
· Digital cameras
· Printers
· Laptops
For more information, please call 934-7748 (in Hilo) and 326-9695 (in Kona.)
This service is brought to you by the County of Hawai`i Department of Environmental Management and Recycle Hawai`i at www.recyclehawaii.org .
The following items are now accepted in the Mixed Recycling drop-off bins at the County Transfer Stations:
Okay to Recycle:
· Paperboard or boxboard (cereal, tea, snack food boxes, etc.)
· Plastics #1, #2 & #5 (milk jugs, detergent bottles, yogurt cups, etc.)
· Metal cans (Rinsed tuna and cat food cans, soup cans, etc.)
· Newspapers and magazines
· Cardboard and brown paper bags (flattened)
· Mixed office paper and junk mail (No Brites)
· Shredded paper
· Phonebooks and paperbacks
· Plastic bags; individual bags should be knotted and put into a larger bag.
NO wax-coated boxes or paper
NO food or oil contaminated materials
NO Styrofoam
Please note: Materials taken to the Kealakehe, Hilo or the Kea‘au Transfer Stations can still be commodity-separated. Please look for signage on where to place recycled materials at these sites.
Thank you for your kokua, as always. For more information, please call 961-8554 or 961-8942.
Redemption Centers – Hours of Operation
The following is a primer on the State of Hawai`i's beverage container redemption program works, and the location of the County of Hawai’i’s beverage container redemption sites:
Qualifying Beverage Containers:
What’s IN: Eligible (redeemable) beverage containers include: soft drinks, soda, water, juice, tea and coffee drinks, and low alcohol content drinks (beer, malt beverages, wine coolers, mixed spirits) in metal, glass or #1 plastic, 64 oz. or less.
What’s OUT: Ineligible (unredeemable) containers include: milk, wine and liquor containers.
Reminder: ONLY eligible HI5¢ labeled containers can be redeemed.
Qualified beverage containers may be redeemed for cash at the following locations:
**Transfer Station centers closed daily from 1:00-1:30pm for lunch.**
CURRENTLY OPEN |
DAYS/HOURS OF OPERATION |
OPERATOR |
|
|
|
Hawi Transfer Station** |
Sat & Sun only: 8 am-4:30 pm. |
ARC of Hilo |
(Open Saturday only) |
(closed for lunch 1:00-1:30) |
|
Hilo, 1260 Kilauea Ave. |
Mon-Sun: 9am-5pm (Closed 12:30pm-1:30 pm) |
Reynolds Recycling |
Hilo, 30 Maka’ala Street (Old Industrial area) |
Mon thru Fri: 8:00am-5:00pm Sat & Sun: 8:00am-3:00pm |
Atlas Recycling |
Goodwill Redemption & Donation Center 500 Kalanianaole Ave., Hilo
|
Mon-Sat: 8am – 6pm Sun: 9am – 5pm |
Goodwill Industries |
Hilo Transfer Station** |
Daily 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
Hilo, Puainako/ Kilauea Ave (behind Kai Store)
|
Mon thru Fri: 8:00am-4:00pm Sat & Sun: 8:00am-2:00pm
|
Atlas Recycling
|
Honoka`a Transfer Station (Weekends only)
|
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30 |
ARC of Hilo |
Kailua-Kona, Pawai Place |
Mon thru Fri: 7:00am-4:00pm |
Atlas Recycling |
(Old industrial area) |
Sat 8:00am-3:00pm |
|
|
Sun Closed |
|
Kea’au Transfer Station** |
M, W, F: 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
(Closed Tues & Thurs) |
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30pm |
|
Kealakehe Transfer Station** |
M, W, F: 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
(Closed Tues & Thurs) |
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30pm |
|
Keauhou Transfer Station** (Weekends only) |
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
Pahoa Transfer Station** (Weekends Only) |
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
Puako Transfer Station** (Open Sunday Only) |
Sunday only 8:00am-4:30pm (closed for lunch 1:00-1:30) |
ARC of Hilo |
Waimea Transfer Station** (Closed Tues & Thurs) |
M, W, F: 8:00am-4:30pm Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
Waiohinu Transfer Station** (Weekends only) |
Sat & Sun 8:00am-4:30pm |
ARC of Hilo |
Atlas Recycling LLC operates Mobile Redemption Sites (monthly 9 am- 1 pm) at:
- Ocean View (South Point U-Cart) every 2nd Saturday and
- Na`alehu Elem. & Inter. School every 3rd Saturday.
For further information about Atlas Recycling’s operations on the island of Hawai`i, call 935-9328 (Hilo) or 329-6868 (Kona).
Reynolds Recycling at 1260 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo also participates in the HI5¢ program: Tues-Saturday 9am-5pm. For further information, call 754-8984.
Certified redemption centers are now accepting flattened aluminum and plastic HI5¢ beverage containers.
Flattened containers are weighed at redemption sites to determine deposit payment. The public is reminded that reverse vending machines will not accept flattened or crushed containers.
DID YOU KNOW….that the Department of Environmental Management has an information line? Call 961-5044 for HI5¢ redemption, recycling, and other solid waste information. Or visit:
www.hi5deposit.com / http://co.hawaii.hi.us/directory/dir_envmng.htm
****Check out this new Recycle Hawaii website page for "special event" disposal bins for recyclable beverage containers:
http://recyclehawaii.org/HI5PurchaseRentBin.htm
Hawai`i County … a nice place to live. County of Hawai`i … a great place to work.
Consider employment with the County of Hawai`i because it offers: numerous positions, great benefits, provides valuable services, diverse culture, a beautiful island – not to mention warm and friendly residents.
Call the County of Hawai`i’s job hotline (808) 961-8618 or visit www.co.hawaii.hi.us to download an application packet.
For job postings, visit our website: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/civil_serv/civ_serv.htm
Click on employment opportunities to download all of the forms.
COMMUNITIES IN ACTION
Apply for Hawai`i Youth Conservation Corps Internships by Oct 31
The Hawai`i Youth Conservation Corps is currently seeking individuals for their Year-Round Internship Program on all of the Hawaiian Islands.
This program allows you to work outdoors, gain environmental experience, give back to Hawai`i, and earn $1,250.00 per month and receive an educational award of $4,750.00. This year- round program starts in January 2009 and ends October 2009.
Note: One of these internships will be on Kaho`olawe.
Deadline to apply is October 31, 2008.
For more details and to apply, please visit the website: www.hawaiiycc.com .If you have specific questions, please the HYCC office at 808-735-1221.
Hiroshima Exhibition at Hawai`i Japanese Center thru Oct 31
The Hawai`i Japanese Center and the East Hawai`i Hiroshima Kenjin Kai present The Voice of Hiroshima: Before and After the A-Bomb Exhibition through October 31 at the Hawai`i Japanese Center at 751 Kanoelehua Avenue (near Big Island Toyota).
“The memories of the August 6 (1945 atomic bombing of Hiroshima) are extremely painful for the survivors, but many regularly overcome their heart-rending grief to tell others of their A-bomb experience because they want to convey to the world their conviction that nuclear weapons must never, under any circumstances, be used again,” according to the exhibition flyer.
Exhibition hours are 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.
Free E-Waste Disposal Events at UHH, Kealakehe HS Oct 24, 25
There will be free e-waste disposal events sponsored by UHH and Apple on Friday, October 24 for government entities, schools, small businesses and nonprofits from 9 am to 2:30 pm., and a free ewaste disposal event for the general public on Saturday, October 25 from 9 am to 3 pm.
There are two locations on the big island: UH Hilo and Kealakehe High School in Kona. Maps showing specific drop off locations are available at http://www.hawaii.edu/ewaste/ .
For the October 24 event, organizations and government agencies need to preregister using the links on the website at http://www.hawaii.edu/ewaste/ .
Grand Opening of Hilo Medical Center Emergency Department Oct 28
The Hilo Medical Center Foundation invites the public and Million/Million campaign donors to celebrate the Emergency Department Grand Opening on Tuesday, October 28 at 8:00 am.
“This grand opening celebration is our way of thanking the supporters of the Million/Million campaign,” said Barry Mark, Hilo Medical Center Foundation (HMCF) President.
The program for the grand opening will feature Fred Koehnen, former HMCF President; Ronald Schurra, East Hawaii Regional CEO of Hawaii Health Systems Corporation; Barry Mark, current HMCF President; Dr. Fred Holschuh, retired Hilo Medical Center Emergency Department head physician; Dr. Steve Morrison, HMCF Trustee and current Hilo Medical Center Emergency Department head physician; Odetta Rapozo-Pung, Emergency Department Nurse Manager. Kahu Kimo Awai will perform the blessing.
When Hilo Medical Center originally requested $7 million from the State Legislature and Governor Linda Lingle to expand and renovate the Emergency Department, the governor responded by challenging the East Hawai`i community to contribute $1 million to the project. In January 2002, HMCF launched the Million/Million Campaign to rally the community to raise $1 million for the Emergency Department Project, and gathered 1 million signatures in support of building a Hawaii “first,” the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home.
The Emergency Department was built in 1985 to handle 11,000 visitors a year with 14 exam rooms and 1 nursing station within a 7,000 square-foot space. 23 years later, Hilo Medical Center’s Emergency Department now sees over 34,000 patients a year, over triple its original capacity. Support for the Expansion and Renovation Project has allowed Hilo Medical Center to build a state of the art Emergency Department with 28 exam rooms, 2 nursing stations, a brand new Waiting Room and Reception Area and provide patients with more comfort and privacy in an 11,000 square-foot area.
HMCF is a non-profit organization founded in 1995 to support the healthcare of this community and its visitors.
The Foundation is also holding its annual Wine, Cheese, Chocolate and More! fundraiser at Hilo Hawaiian’s Moku Ola Room on Sunday, November 9 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
The Foundation’s annual benefit luncheon will be held on Tuesday, December 16 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America.
The Hilo Medical Center Foundation is currently sponsoring a petition supporting the Rural Family Residency Training Program. The goal is to collect 50,000 signatures by November 30 in support of the program that could contribute to attracting and retaining physicians to Hawaii Island and other rural areas in the state.
For more information call Lori at the Foundation office at 935-2957 or Elena Cabatu at the Hilo Medical Center Administration office at 974-4738.
8th Annual Black & White Night is on Friday, November 7
The 8th Annual Black & White Night will take place on Friday, November 7 in Downtown Hilo. Hilo’s biggest strolling party will offer multiple free live jazz music venues, stores opening late serving up specials, sales, free food samples, author and artist receptions, and much more from one end of town to the other.
Everyone dresses in black and white, some dress down in shorts and T-shirts, some dress up in gowns and suits to enter the "Best Dressed Black & White Contest" for cash prizes.
Young men in tuxedoes will be walking around and serving as Aloha Ambassadors with schedules of events and information.
For more information please phone 933-9772 or visit www.poshfestivals.com or email amooninfo@bigisland.com .
North Kohala Community Dev. Plan Meeting November 12
The next community meeting for the North Kohala Community Development Plan (Planning Phase) will be held on Wednesday, November 12 from 6:30 to 9:00 pm at the Kohala High School Cafeteria.
Purpose of the meeting is to present the approved NKCDP to community and acknowledge everyone's participation in a successful planning effort.
For more information, please call Allen Salavea at the County Planning Department at 327-3612 or email asalavea@co.hawaii.hi.us .
Hunger & Homeless Event at Old Kona Airport Park November 20
The community is invited to a Hunger and Homeless Awareness event on Thursday, November 20 at the Old Kona Airport Park Pavilion from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
This event includes a Thanksgiving feast that will be served at 12:00 noon.
We invite you to come and learn about the many resources available to help combat hunger and homelessness in our community. Resources include employment, medical, housing and treatment facilities.
For information about setting up an informational table at this event, please contact Jasmine Angeleo with Family Support Services of West Hawai`i at 334-4128 or 640-0988 or email at jangeleo@fsswh.org .
The partnership members for this event include Office for Social Ministry, St. Michael’s Church, Neighborhood Place of Kona, Family Support Services of West Hawai`i, Solid Rock Ministries and Queen Lili`uokalani Children’s Center.
Hawaii HomeOwnership Center Holds Free Orientations in Hilo and Kona
The Hawaii HomeOwnership Center is a non-profit organization that provides homebuyer education and counseling to help people prepare to buy a home. Our services are available to anyone interested.
Come to a free orientation and learn more about us.
Office of Housing & Community Development |
1990 Kinoole Street, Suite 104, Hilo |
|
|
Mayor’s Office (West Hawai`i) |
75-5706 Kuakini Hwy, Suite 103, Kailua-Kona |
|
|
|
|
Please call to reserve a space: 1-877-523-9503 (toll free) or 959-5808. To check current schedules visit www.hihomeownership.org
Final Public Meeting of Hilo Bayfront Trails Planning Project Dec 10
The third and final public meeting on the Hilo Bayfront Trails Planning Project will take place on December 10 at Aunty Sally’s Luau Hale in Hilo. We realize that this is a busy time of year for everyone and that December will bring some changes to County agencies, and appreciate your support of this initiative.
WHEN: Wednesday, December 10, 2008, doors open at 4:30 for registration.
WHERE: Aunty Sally’s Luau Hale in Hilo
For more information visit http://www.hcrc.info/community-planning/hilo/bayfront-trails/ .
Earth Patriot Hip Hop Dance Competition Entry Deadline Jan 5
Hip hop dance teams are cordially invited to enter the Earth Patriot Hip Hop Dance Competition in celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the 60th anniversary of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This competition is presented by Performing and Fine Artists for World Peace and Amnesty International.
Hip Hop Dance Competition Entry Information
Rules and Requirements:
- Contestants must be students from the island of Hawai`i ages 12-18.
- Teams must consist of 3 to 7 students.
- Teams must choreograph their own hip hop dance routines without adult supervision..
- Dance routines must be between 2 to 4 minutes in length.
- Teams must prepare 2 dance routines for January 17, 2009, 1 routine for the first round of finals which will consist of up to 12 teams, and 1 routine for the second round of finals which will consist of the 3 top scoring teams.
- Teams must choose 2 hip hop songs for their 2 dance routines from a CD provided by the sponsors of the dance competition. Selections will include music by the Hawai`i Island music group Kumanu as well other ‘conscious rap’ music artists.
- This competition is an alcohol and drug free event. Students entering this competition will be representing their school or youth organization and should be role models in living a positive and healthy lifestyle free of drugs and alcohol.
Judging Criteria:
Each school, youth organization or dance studio will select one first place team.
Names of the dancers on the winning team must be sent to the organizers by January 5, 2009.
Final judging will be held at the Palace Theater in Hilo on January 17, 2009
(Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday weekend)
Judging is based on four categories:
- Dance ability
- Choreography
- Interpretation of the song’s themes
- Presentation (costumes, synchronicity, stage presence, etc.)
Timetable
- September 2008: Information sent to Schools, Youth Organizations and Dance Studios.
- November 30, 2008: Deadline for Registration
- December 2008: Preliminary Judging by Schools, Youth Organizations and Dance Studios.
- January 17, 2009 Competition at the Palace Theater: Final Judging.
(Judges will be representatives of the music and dance community on the island of Hawai`i.)
Schools and youth organizations on the island of Hawai`i will receive human rights materials from Amnesty International. They will also receive the recording See the Flame by the group Kumanu that was produced to support the work of Amnesty International and commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Competition for finals at the Palace Theater on January 17, 2009 is limited to the first 12 teams that register. Teams can represent schools, youth organizations or dance studios on the island of Hawai`i.
Prizes include music CDs and gift certificates from businesses in Hawai`i.
Major Sponsors:
Big Island Dance Council, KHBC Radio, Recycle Hawai`I,The Palace Theater
For more information please call 985-8725 or email artpeace@hawaiiantel.net or visit www.artistsandpeace.org .
Healing Our Island Community Fund Mini-grants Available
Do you have an idea or an initiative for a drug prevention and education activity that will help your community? Do you know of others willing to collaborate and conduct anti-drug activities with a focus on youth, family and neighborhood? Mini-grants are now available for initiatives like these.
The Healing Our Island Community Fund is a grant-in-aid to the County of Hawai`i from the Hawai`i State Legislature aimed at inspiring and encouraging grassroots community involvement to plan and implement services, programs and events in the fight against drug abuse.
Funds for this program are intended to fund projects of Hawai`i Island’s community-based grassroots organizations and non-501(c)(3)s that traditionally do not have access to grant funds. The grants are not to exceed $2,000.00 and applicants are encouraged to collaborate and cooperate with others in their own communities and with other communities. This program has been successful in all districts across the island over the past two years.
More than 281 community mini-grants have been awarded since the inception of this program. This funding has enabled communities to connect and work in a united front to address substance abuse issues.
Each district on Hawai`i Island has a district liaison available to assist groups with their grant proposals and to help and encourage groups to connect with potential collaborative partners in their communities. Grant requests are evaluated monthly and are due by the 10th of each month. Funds are limited so preference will be given to first-time Healing Our Island applicants.
The Healing Our Island 2007-2008 Community Grant Fund information and application packet is available at www.hcrc.info or for pick up at the Hawaii County Resource Center in Hilo at Hilo Lagoon Centre,101 Aupuni Street, Suite PH 1014-C, or in Kona at the Lanihau Professional Center at 75-5591 Palani Road, Suite 2001 (next to Frame Ten Center-Kona Bowl).
For more information, please call Laverne Omori at 327-3665 or contact the liaison for your district:
- N/S Kohala: Carolyn Lancaster 987-3395 carolyn96755@yahoo.com
- N/S Kona: Christine Light 987-4510 paikona@yahoo.com
- Ka’u: Teresa Alderdyce 937-7919 aldert@juno.com
- Puna: Barbara Lively 640-9428 blively77@yahoo.com
- N/S Hilo: Susan Labrenz 966-8450 JA-susan@hawaii.rr.com
High Quality Mulch at Kealakehe Transfer Station
The County of Hawai’i has free mulch at the public pick-up area of the Kailua-Kona (Kealakehe) Transfer Station available 7 days a week from 6:30 am - 6:30 pm. This mulch is being processed by EKO Systems and is a higher-quality product than previously available.
To inquire about daily mulch availability at the Kealakehe site, please call 929-8200.
Bring a shovel to load your own vehicle or have EKO Systems operators load with a mechanical loader between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. only. Assisted mechanical loading availability is subject to machine operability and time permitting. To inquire about assisted loading, please call 217-1219 or 929-8200. No loading fees.
If you want large loads delivered to your property, please contact a local trucking firm to arrange for delivery of large loads of mulch. Again, no fees are charged to load any truck, regardless of size.
EKO Systems has a second permanent grinder deployed at the Hilo greenwaste site year-round.
We are still accepting untreated/unpainted pallets at both the Kealakehe and Hilo greenwaste sites. For further information, please call the County's Recycling Specialist at 961-8554.
Check out our County’s Community Development Plan Website
All around the island, communities are actively engaging in a monumental planning effort that has the potential of positively affecting the future of Hawai`i Island for generations to come.
Go to the website http://www.hcrc.info/hawai-i-island-plan (note: this is a new website address) to see what is happening in each of our judicial districts as it relates to the Community Development Plan process.
In addition to finding current information about the process, you can also find, among other things, information about past planning efforts.
TRAFFIC ALERT
(All project schedules based on weather permitting)
Oct 27, 2008 Monday |
Where/Location: S. Kona District: Kona Scenic Subdivision. |
What: Maintain centerline striping |
Oct 28, 2008 Tuesday |
Where/Location: S. Kona District: Kona Scenic Subdivision. |
What: Maintain centerline striping |
Oct 29, 2008 Wednesday |
Where/Location: S. Kona District: Cooks Landing Subdivision. |
What: Maintain centerline striping |
Oct 30, 2008 Thursday |
Where/Location: S. Kona District: Cooks Landing Subdivision. |
What: Maintain crosswalks and stoplines |
Oct 31, 2008 Friday |
Where/Location: S. Kona District: Cooks Landing Subdivision. |
What: Maintain crosswalks and stoplines |
Signs and Markings Project by Traffic’s Term Contractor: Central Striping |
(All project schedules based on weather permitting.) |
Oct 27, 2008 Monday – Oct 31, 2008 Friday |
Where/Location: Hamakua District: Saddle Road |
What: Installing centerlines, shoulder strips & raised-pavement markers |
Street Lights and Traffic Signal Projects by Traffic Maintenance & Independent Term Contractors under Traffic’s Direction. |
Oct 27, 2008 Monday – Oct 31, 2008 Friday |
Where/Location: S. Hilo District: Corner of Kinoole and Kamana |
What: Installing Traffic Signal with pedestrian countdown clocks. |
Some of our street lights are malfunctioning. If the street light in your community is out or stays on all day, please call 961-8341 and report any malfunctions.
The Traffic Division of the County Department of Public Works manages 9,308 street lights islandwide. Each of these street lights is operated by light-sensing cells, and a percentage of these street lights are regularly in need of repair or maintenance.
Two things can happen with the street lights. Bulbs may burn out, which means the light will not activate at dusk, or the sensor may malfunction and the light will remain on all day.
If a street light in your neighborhood is lit all day or is not lit at night, please call the Traffic Division of Public Works, weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 961-8341 with the following information:
- The street light pole number. This number is located six to seven feet up on the side of the street light pole and is easily spotted from a car.
- To help pinpoint the street light, please give the street or highway name, as well as the closest mile marker or nearby landmark.
For more information, please contact Ron Thiel, Traffic Division Chief at 961-8341. Mahalo nui loa.
Need a Pothole Repaired? -- Call Public Works
If you know of a pothole in your street, in your neighborhood or in your travels, please call the County to have it repaired. Public Works personnel repair potholes each Friday between 6:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Please call one of the numbers listed below for the community where you live. Let the staff know you have a pothole that needs repair. The staff will ask you the following questions:
1) General location of the pothole
2) Give a landmark if you can.
3) Your phone number in case they need to contact you.
The office hours for each of the following nine offices are weekdays, 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. If you call after hours, please leave a message on the voice mail.
S. Hilo Phone. 961-8636
N. Hilo/Hamakua Phone: 775-7500
Kamuela Phone: 887-3004
Keauhou, N. Kona Phone: 322-2877
N. Kohala Phone: 887-3004
Ka’u, Waiohinu Phone: 939-2500
Puna Phone: 966-5806
Your County Department of Public Works thanks you for your kokua, as always.
New Traffic Light at Mohouli and Kumukoa from Week of Oct 27
Motorists will have a new traffic signal at the intersection of Mohouli and Kumukoa streets in Hilo starting the week of October 27. Flashing lights will prepare motorists for the new signal starting Monday, October 27.
Installation of the traffic signal started in March of this year. The construction costs are estimated at $1.6 million.
Mohouli Street is a vital link between the growing mauka suburbs and Downtown Hilo, the University of Hawai`i-Hilo and major commercial areas.
For updated information on this roadwork and other projects around the Island of Hawai`i, call the 24-hour hotline at 334-9559.
Repairs of Damage from 2007 Floods in Ka’u Start This Month
Repairs of damage from the November 2007 floods in Ka`u are slated to begin in October, and will involve the ford at Wood Valley Road.
One lane of Wood Valley Road will be closed to traffic during construction between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, and motorists should anticipate periodic delays of 10-15 minutes.
Completion is scheduled for late November or early December. The repairs are estimated to cost $125,258. Of that amount, FEMA will pay 75% of the cost and Hawai’i County 25%.
Also in Ka’u, the embankment on Lower Moaulu Road will be reinforced and culverts cleaned and repaired. Repairs are scheduled to begin in November and completed in December. Workers will be in the area between weekdays 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Traffic will not be disrupted, and no delays are anticipated.
For more information, please contact the Department of Public Works at 961-8321, or after hours 557-6437.
Shoulder Work for Fiber-Optic Cable Project in Kawaihae
Motorists and the public are advised of a construction project to install an underground conduit and manhole system for the telecommunication’s network that will be utilized by Sandwich Isles Communications, Inc. to service Department of Hawaiian Homelands properties in Kawaihae.
Construction activities are taking place along the shoulder area but may also require possible lane closures along the route from the intersection of Queen Kaahumanu Hwy. and Kawaihae Road. The route continues along Kawaihae Rd. towards Akoni Pule Hwy. for approximately 1.51 miles. It then turns up Akoni Pule Hwy. towards Maluokalani St. for approximately 0.7 miles turning up Maluokalani St. for approximately 1,600 feet where the project will end.
Henkels & McCoy will be utilizing both modern and traditional construction techniques such as directional drilling and backhoe excavation.
Construction is currently in progress, with approximately 2 months remaining to complete. We are hoping to be done by the end of November.
Standard working hours are between 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, (excluding holidays) and weather permitting. The public is advised to use caution while driving or walking through the work areas and to allow for extra travel time.
We apologize for any inconvenience that may result from this work. For more information please contact Keola Rosario, Project Manager of Henkels & McCoy, at 630-8822.
Got Junk Cars? County of Hawai`i Can Help
If you have junk cars on your property, the County of Hawai`i can help. The Department of Environmental Management’s Amnesty Program can remove two (2) derelict vehicles from your private property for FREE.
How do I qualify for the Amnesty Program?
The private property owner or a certified representative must complete and sign the application. You may obtain an Amnesty Application by calling (808) 961-8552 or via the internet at http://co.hawaii.hi.us/env_mng/swm/DVAP%20application.pdf .
Applications can be dropped off or mailed to the Solid Waste Division, Amnesty Program, 108 Railroad Avenue, Hilo, Hawai`i 96720.
To report an Abandoned Vehicle on a public highway, public or private street or thoroughfare, please call police dispatch at 935-3311.
Be prepared to give the location and description of the vehicle. You may also call the County’s Abandoned Vehicle Program at 961-8552.
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://calendar.ehawaii.gov/calendar/html/event
Hawaii Visitors and Conventions Bureau: http://calendar.gohawaii.com/
Hawaii.com: http://www.hawaii.com/live/
Hawaii Community Foundation http://www.hawaiicommunityfoundation.org
Alternative-Hawaii: http://www.alternative-hawaii.com/calendar.htm
Kamuela.com: http://kamuela.com/calendar/default.asp
Hawaii Public Radio: http://www.hawaiipublicradio.org/psa.htm
Hawaii Theatre Network: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hawaiitheatre
Waikoloa Village: http://www.waikoloa.org/calendar
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.htm
Procurement Notices: http://co.hawaii.hi.us/purchasing/bids.htm
Community Development Plan website: http://www.hcrc.info/hawai-i-island-plan
Information & Complaints: cohinfo@co.hawaii.hi.us
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.