Governor Abercrombie Releases $48.3 Million for Public Housing Statewide

Posted on May 22, 2013 by Damon

Continuing to invest in capital improvement projects (CIPs) that improve state facilities and infrastructure while strengthening Hawaii’s economic and employment environment, Gov. Neil Abercrombie today announced the release of more than $48.3 for public housing CIPs across the state.

abercrombieheader
“These investments will have long-term benefits, providing homes for island families while further stimulating our economy and generating local jobs,” Gov. Abercrombie said.

Allotment of funds for the following priority projects, identified by members of the state Legislature, has been approved by the Governor:

  • $25,822,000 – Lump Sum Non-Routine Repair, Maintenance, Improvements and Renovations, statewide – Planning, design, equipment and construction for public housing program site improvements
  • $10,000,000 – ADA Compliance for Various State and Federal Projects, statewide – Planning, design and construction to comply with the ADA for various state and federal public housing projects; among the various housing projects are: Hale Aloha O Puna (Keaau), Pahala Homes (East Hawaii), Pomaikai (Hilo), Koolau Village (Kaneohe), Hale Hookipa (Kahaluu), and various facilities on Kauai
  • $7,500,000 – Lanakila Homes, Hawaii Island – Construction for renovation of existing buildings at this public housing complex in Hilo that was originally developed in 1962; currently, it consists of 148 units built since 2000 and 62 original units built in 1962 (The 62 units are boarded up and abandoned, and the project will replace the existing buildings to allow the units to be rented to qualifying families)
  • $5,000,000 – Hale Laulima, Oahu – Design and construction for modernization, roof replacement, and termite damage repair at this 36-unit public housing project in Pearl City, built in 1981

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Tomorrow: Free Hepatitis Screenings Available to the Public – National Hepatitis Testing Day

Posted on May 19, 2013 by Damon

National Hepatitis Testing Day will be observed in Hawaii on Monday, May 20, 2013. In collaboration with Hep Free Hawaii, Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) clinics and other community-based sites are offering free hepatitis screenings to the public on May 20 to encourage people to find out their hepatitis B and C status. National Hepatitis Testing Day events will also help to raise awareness within communities and remind people with insurance to get tested through their primary care provider.

Hepatitis Testing

“Often called the silent epidemic, most people with hepatitis B or C don’t have symptoms for many years,” stated Health Director Loretta Fuddy, A.C.S.W., M.P.H. “People with hepatitis B and C shouldn’t wait until they feel sick to be tested because there are many things, including treatment, they can do to take care of themselves before they become ill. The earlier people know they have hepatitis, the better the outcome.”

According to DOH Immunization Branch estimates, between 1 and 3 percent of people in Hawaii have hepatitis B, and approximately 23,000 are living with hepatitis C. Hepatitis B and C are the most common known causes of liver cancer in Hawaii, and Hawaii has the highest rate of liver cancer in the United States.

Hepatitis B and C are spread through contact with blood and body fluids. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that anyone who has been exposed to blood through needle use, blood transfusion, non-sterile equipment, or tattooing should be tested for both hepatitis B and C. Anyone born in a country with high rates of hepatitis B, especially countries in Asia and the Pacific should be screened for hepatitis B. Anyone born from 1945-1965 (“baby boomers”) should also get a one-time test for hepatitis C, regardless of any known risk.

“If you are at risk, you should ask your doctor to get tested for hepatitis B or C. Putting off this simple test now can have dangerous health implications later on, such as liver disease and cancer,” said Fuddy.

Individuals without insurance may call Aloha United Way 211 or go to www.hepfreehawaii.org to find the free screening location nearest them (flyer attached). Not all sites will offer hepatitis B testing. Testing will be based on eligibility and availability at each site.

For more information about National Hepatitis Testing Day, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/HTD.

For more information about hepatitis resources and events in Hawaii, go to http://www.hepfreehawaii.org.

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Noted Buddhist Scholar, Author and Educator to Present Talk at Honoka’a Hongwani Buddhist Temple

Posted on May 18, 2013 by Damon

Shining a modern light on an ancient practice, noted Buddhist scholar, author and educator, Dr. Ugo Dessi will present a talk at the Honoka‘a Hongwanji Buddhist Temple on Monday, June 10, 2013 at 7 p.m.

Dr. Ugo Dessi

Dr. Ugo Dessi

Asking the question, “Can the globalization of Buddhism help solve war and alienation?” Dessi brings international and inspiring insights to the podium, discussing how Japanese Buddhism continues to evolve, along with environmental and human rights values, as global interconnectedness has increased.  Admission is free and the general public is enthusiastically welcome.

Born and raised on the Italian island of Sardinia, with many similarities to Hawai‘i, Dessi and his wife, Dr. Elisabetta Porcu met as university students. Together, they traveled to Mumbai, India to study Buddhism, and then to Germany, where both received PhD in religious studies from the University of Marburg.  After six years in Japan, working at Ryukoku University, Otani University, and Kyoto University of Foreign Studies, they returned to Germany in 2010 to teach Japanese religions at the University of Leipzig.

Dessi is the author of Japanese Religions and Globalization (Routledge 2013), and is presently doing research on meditation practice by Jodo Shinsu lay and clergy practitioners in Hawai‘i for another book project on the global relevance of Japanese Buddhism.  He will be sitting with the Honokaa Mindfulness Sangha, Sunday, June 9, at 4 p.m. in the Honoka‘a Hongwanji Buddhist Temple social hall.

“What is globalization?” said Dessi.  “Through a variety of examples we will see how Japanese Buddhism is unexpectedly involved in globalization in a variety of ways. Like in the past, the transmission of Buddhism continues to be an important ingredient in the globalization of culture…  And, significantly, there are cases in which Japanese Buddhism is addressing global problems such as war and social alienation that are left unsolved by the global markets and politics.”

Dr. Dessi’s talk is free and open to everyone regardless of religious or spiritual background.  The program begins at 7 p.m., followed by time for questions and answers, and light refreshments.  For information please call Honoka‘a Hongwanji Buddhist Temple at 775-7232.

The presentation is made possible by the Buddhist Education Commission with support of the Peace Committee of the Honoka‘a Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, producers of the annual Parade & Festival for the United Nations International Day of Peace. (www.peacedayparade.org)

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22nd Annual Rubber Duckie Race Fundraising Event Set for Fourth of July

Posted on May 17, 2013 by Damon

It is going to be a fun-filled day raising much needed funds for the United Cerebral Palsy Association (UCPA) of Hawaii and honoring our first responders.  The 22nd Annual Rubber Duckie Race, with 100 percent of the duck adoptions benefiting the United Cerebral Palsy Association (UCPA) of Hawaii, is set for July fourth.

Rubber Duck Race 2

“This year we chose the theme Hawaii Five-0 to show our appreciation of our first responders here on Hawaii Island,” said Specialty Leasing Manager Colene DeMello.  “This is an opportunity for Kings’ Shops to give back to our island community, continued Mrs. DeMello who is spearheading this year’s event.

Kings’ Shops General Manager, Steve Schwartz commented, “last year we raised over $35,000 and this year with the public’s help, we hope to raise even more.” The duck adoptions are slated to begin the first week of June.

Between the first week of June and July 4th, adoption certificates will be available at Adoption Headquarters, the Kings’ Shops Management Office and at the Queens’ MarketPlace Management Office.  Mail-in order forms will be available at Waikoloa Village Market.  Online adoptions can be made at www.KingsShops.com.  On race day look for the United Cerebral Palsy Association duck booths where adoptions will be available all the way up to race time. Adopt a duck with a donation of $5 or a “quack pack” of four adoption certificates and a duckie t-shirt for a $25 donation.

The adopted ducks are tagged with a waterproof ticket with the adoption certificate number and the name of the adoptee.  They will then be placed in a giant starting cage which is suspended over the Kings’ Lake.  At exactly 3 p.m. on the Fourth of July they will be released.  The first 50 duckies to cross the finish line win one of the 50 prizes which together total over $25,000.00.

 

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Breadfruit Harvest for Hunger Project

Posted on May 16, 2013 by Damon

COULD BREADFRUIT HELP ALLEVIATE GLOBAL AND LOCAL HUNGER?

The newly launched Breadfruit Harvest for Hunger project harvests breadfruit in Kona and distributes it to the food insecure. The project is based upon the simple fact that there are many people on Hawai‘i Island without enough nutritious food to eat, and at the same time there are literally tons of breadfruit that are not being harvested and eaten. Breadfruit (‘ulu) is a local, abundant and nutritious food that can be used to alleviate hunger in Hawai‘i.

Breadfruit

Breadfruit is a traditional staple crop throughout the Pacific region. According to Dr. Diane Ragone, Director of the Breadfruit Institute of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, more than 80% of the world’s hungry live in tropical and subtropical regions where ecological conditions are suitable for cultivating breadfruit. Just like in Hawai‘i, many people in the tropics have high food, fuel, and fertilizer costs and need sustainable, low-input crops. Many island nations are turning to breadfruit as a solution.

According to a survey done by Hawai‘i Homegrown Food Network, people who grow breadfruit reported that 46% is wasted. At the same time, many of Hawai‘i’s families are food insecure—lacking access to affordable and nutritious food.

In its first month of operation, Breadfruit Harvest for Hunger harvested, distributed and processed over 500 pounds of breadfruit.

The project builds relationships with landowners who have excess breadfruit and forms an agreement to harvest. The breadfruit is then distributed through social service agencies such as the Kealakehe Meet and Eat, Ocean View Food Basket and Hawai‘i Island Youth Corps. Excess breadfruit is processed and frozen for future use by the West Hawai‘i Community College Culinary Arts Program.

The Breadfruit Harvest for Hunger project was started with the support of the Omidyar ‘Ohana Fund of the Hawai‘i Community Foundation. It is an initiative of Ho‘oulu ka ‘Ulu—a project to revitalize ‘ulu (breadfruit) as an attractive, delicious, nutritious, abundant, affordable, and culturally appropriate food which addresses Hawai’i’s food security issues.  The Ho‘oulu ka ‘Ulu project is led by Hawai‘i Homegrown Food Network and the Breadfruit Institute of the National Tropical Botanical Garden.

The project is seeking additional partnerships with landowners who have excess breadfruit and agencies that serve the food insecure.  For more information or to donate breadfruit from your trees, please email hooulu@hawaiihomegrown.net or call Andrea Dean at 960-3727. More information about the project can be found at www.breadfruit.info.

Filed under: Agriculture, aloha, Announcements, Big Island, Community, Economy, Food & Drink, Hawaii, Hawaiian, Health | Tagged: | 1 Comment »

Pahoa Nikkei Jin Kai to Celebrate 50 Years

Posted on May 15, 2013 by Damon

Pahoa Nikkei Jin Kai will celebrate 50 years since its incorporation on Saturday, June 8.

nikkei Jin Kai

Crafted by graphic artist Cary Tanoue, the design incorporates English and kanji spelling out the organization’s name along with an anthurium.

“A Japanese community non-profit organization has been around in Pahoa for more than 100 years,” said committee chairman Jason Hashimoto. “This event celebrates the golden anniversary of our formal incorporation in 1963. It’s the first time we are trying to get Pahoa people together for a community reunion, both current and former residents.”

President Craig Shimoda said, “We are looking for people with ties to Pahoa who may have moved away from this area.”

Events planned for the day include a memorial service at 10 a.m. followed by recognition of keirokai members (80 years of age and older), luncheon, old fashioned games, photographic and artifact displays, and talk story time in the YBA Hall in Pahoa.

Past president Stanley Oishi recalled, “The organization way back built the first Pahoa Japanese school. In recent years, we built the YBA Hall. We take care of the hall and the cemetery. Annually we host the last obon dance of the season and mochi pounding close to the new year.”

Cost of the event is $10 for members or $20 for non-members. RSVP by May 4 to Pahoa Nikkei Jin Kai, P.O. Box 504, Pahoa HI 96778. Anyone wishing further information may contact Jason Hashimoto at (808) 937-5941 or by e-mail jasonhashi@gmail.com

About the logo:

A logo has been selected for Pahoa Nikkei Jin Kai to celebrate the 50th anniversary since the non-profit community organization’s incorporation.

Crafted by graphic artist Cary Tanoue, the design incorporates English and kanji spelling out the organization’s name along with an anthurium.

“If it’s representing Pahoa, it’s got to be an anthurium,” said long time resident Glenn Watarida, a former president of the organization.”

According to the late Pahoa historian Hiroo Sato, an active member of Pahoa Nikkei Jin Kai, “The first anthuriums were imported from England in 1889 by Samuel N, Damon and planted in his Moanalua botanical garden.” That first variety had a pink spathe.

“One of the first persons to grow anthuriums in Hilo was Herbert Shipman. There were several other local pioneers of whom one was Kisataro Keno of Kaumana. Kono produced anthurium
seedlings that were sold to Katsuto Hayashi who probably was the first to grow anthuriums in Pahoa in the 1930s.”

A multi-million dollar floral industry flourished with more than 260 farms on the island of Hawaii in 1959 – the majority of the state’s production. Due to the many growers, packers and shippers located in the area, Pahoa was labeled the Anthurium Capitol of Hawaii. “The industry reached its peak in 1980, supplying local, national, and international markets with up to 232,000 dozen flowers per month. Although yield was at 2.5 million dozen flowers in 1980, supply was insufficient to meet demand,” according to University of Hawaii publications. The bacterial blight of the 1980s set the industry back. Since then, development of disease-resistant strains, new horticultural practices such as drip irrigation, and advances in tissue-culturing of disease-free varieties has led to the continuation of the industry.

“We are so grateful to Cary Tanoue for all his help,” said current president Craig Shimoda. “Cary also has cleaned the Pahoa YBA sign that hung on the front of the first hall starting in 1921 and on the current building since 1980. It will be ready to hang up again for the celebration.”

“We have a full slate of activities for Saturday, June 8,” said anniversary chairman Jason Hashimoto. “Registration has been extended until May 25.”

Advance registration is required for the memorial service, activities and luncheon. For further information, contact Hashimoto at (808) 937-5941 or by e-mail to jasonhashi@gmail.com.

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Fukushima Friends Benefit Concert – Japan Kids to Come to the Big Island for Respite, Rest and Fun

Posted on May 15, 2013 by Damon

Please help the children and young adults that desire to come to the Big Island from the disaster area of Fukushima, Japan, in July and August, 2013 by attending the Fukushima Friends Relief Concert on May 26th at the East Hawaii Center for Spiritual Living.

Fukushima Benefit Concert

About 20 young people with chaperones from 5th grade up are coming to the Big Island to receive respite, rest, and fun from July 15-Aug 26.

A group will be providing food, shelter, and transportation for one month which is costly.  In addition, some of you may not know, but, these children and young adults have suffered the earthquake, tsunami, family suicides, survival camps, and high radiation exposure for 2 years.  They are in need of fresh air, ocean swimming, and rest for their physical and mental health.  They have been living inside locations without being able to play outside, touch the ground, or eat Fukushima food because of the radiation dangers.  Please help us provide for these young people.  Please come to the concert or you may donate any amount to the fund.

 

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Big Island Police Searching for Missing Man in Waipio Valley

Posted on May 15, 2013 by Damon

Hawaiʻi Island police are searching for a 62-year-old Honokaʻa man who was reported missing on Tuesday (May 14).

Kevin Devlin

Kevin Devlin

Kevin Devlin, also known as Shawn Devlin, was last seen on Monday (May 13) between 6:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. in Waipio Valley, where he reportedly was going for a swim. He is described as Caucasian, 5-foot-10, 160 pounds with short, thin white hair.

Police ask that anyone with information on his whereabouts call Officer Dion Santiago at 775-7533 or the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311.

Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.

 

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Hawai‘i Wildlife Center Receives Wildlife Rescue Vehicle

Posted on May 14, 2013 by Damon

Native birds and bats throughout the state now have a vehicle just for them at the Hawai‘i Wildlife Center.  Thanks to a generous challenge grant by the Omidyar ‘Ohana Fund of the Hawai‘i Community Foundation and dozens of individuals who rallied together to answer the challenge, the new state-of-the-art native wildlife rehabilitation facility now has an official vehicle that provides wildlife transport to and from the Center.

HWC Founder, President and Center Director Linda Elliott with the new wildlife rescue vehicle

HWC Founder, President and Center Director Linda Elliott with the new wildlife rescue vehicle

The new wildlife rescue vehicle could not have come at a better time.  Since the official launch of wildlife care in September 2012, the HWC has received sick and injured animals from all main Hawaiian Islands, many of which have needed to be picked up from the airport or from the pier.  With activity continuing to increase, the new vehicle provides a peace of mind that there will always be a safe, reliable vehicle available for wildlife rescue missions.

Says HWC Founder, President and Center Director Linda Elliott, “this vehicle is extremely meaningful to us because it is a telling show of support from our statewide and national ‘ohana and our local community. We are thrilled to receive this critical resource and are excited about how it will increase our response capacity for the benefit of Hawai‘i’s native wildlife. Mahalo to everyone who made this happen!”

The vehicle has only been at the facility for two weeks, but has already been used to rescue a downed Newell’s Shearwater and to pick up supplies for the two Maui Nene and one O‘ahu ‘Auku‘u currently in care.

As the only facility of its kind in the State, HWC is continuously working on expanding its network of volunteer transporters to get sick and injured animals to the Center for care and healed, healthy animals to their appropriate release location, including back to their island of origin when necessary. If you would like to become a member of the HWC Wings for Wildlife air transport team or the Wheels for Wildlife ground transport team, please contact the Center at (808) 884-5000, info@hawaiiwildlifecenter.org. Individuals from all islands are welcomed to join.

Wings for Wildlife Air Transport Information: http://www.hawaiiwildlifecenter.org/wings-for-wildlife-air-rescue-team.html

Wheels for Wildlife Ground Transport Information: http://www.hawaiiwildlifecenter.org/wheels-for-wildlife-ground-transport-team.html

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Seven Big Island Organizations Recipients of the 2013 Malama Honua Awards

Posted on May 12, 2013 by Damon

A total of seven (7) Big Island organizations were awarded with the 2013 Malama Honua Award, funded by Aloha Grown. Each received a $500 award towards a specific project, program or initiative that embodies Aloha Grown’s philosophy to “Support Local, Sustain the Aina & Share the Aloha.”

From L-R: Tracey Akau (Parker Ranch Store - Manager), Carl Sturges (Parker School - Headmaster), Holly Sargeant-Green (Malaai - Garden Leader), Hayley Blondin (Waimea Country School - Teacher/Garden Coordinator) and Camille Kalahiki (Parker Ranch Store - Assistant Manager). Missing Dashiell Kuhr (Hawaii Institute of Pacific Agriculture – Executive Director)

From L-R: Tracey Akau (Parker Ranch Store – Manager), Carl Sturges (Parker School – Headmaster), Holly Sargeant-Green (Malaai – Garden Leader), Hayley Blondin (Waimea Country School – Teacher/Garden Coordinator) and Camille Kalahiki (Parker Ranch Store – Assistant Manager). Missing Dashiell Kuhr (Hawaii Institute of Pacific Agriculture – Executive Director)

Congratulations to the following 2013 Malama Honua Award recipients! Following are their projects/programs that promote sustainability (in alphabetical order):

  • Hawaii Institute of Pacific Agriculture – “Aloha Classroom” project
  • Hilo Downtown Improvement Association – “Lets Grow Hilo” project
  • Hilo Intermediate School Parent & Community Networking Center – “Learning Garden/Aquaponics System” project
  • Honpa Hongwanji Hilo Betsuin – “Grow our Garden” initiative
  • Malaai: The Culinary Garden of Waimea Middle School – “Farm Stand” program
  • Parker School – “Kihapai Hooulu” project
  • Waimea Country School – “Na Keiki Aloha Aina” program

“We were extremely pleased to see such a great response to our Aloha Grown Malama Honua Fund program,” said Aloha Grown Store Manager Tyler Owens. “We received a number of applications and essays from well-deserving organizations.”

From L-R: Connie Kurohara (Aloha Grown – Vice President), Richard Onishi (Honpa Hongwanji Hilo Betsuin - Kyodan President), Jon Kirby (Hilo Intermediate School Parent & Community Networking Center - Century 21 Garden Coordinator), Samantha Robinson (Hilo Downtown Improvement Association - Let's Grow Hilo Coordinator) and Tyler Owens (Aloha Grown – Store Manager).

From L-R: Connie Kurohara (Aloha Grown – Vice President), Richard Onishi (Honpa Hongwanji Hilo Betsuin – Kyodan President), Jon Kirby (Hilo Intermediate School Parent & Community Networking Center – Century 21 Garden Coordinator), Samantha Robinson (Hilo Downtown Improvement Association – Let’s Grow Hilo Coordinator) and Tyler Owens (Aloha Grown – Store Manager).

Parker Ranch Store Manager Tracey Akau noted, “it was inspiring to see how many organizations are committed to sustainability efforts in our Big Island communities.”

Aloha Grown is committed to supporting sustainability efforts on the Big Island. Two percent of every Aloha Grown sale goes to the Malama Honua Fund, which awards local nonprofits, schools, organizations and initiatives with similar sustainability missions.

To view the essays submitted by all 2013 Malama Honua Award recipients, visit www.alohagrown.com/malama-honua-fund.html.

For more information on Aloha Grown, visit www.alohagrown.com.

Filed under: Agriculture, Announcements, Big Island, Community, Education, Environment, Hawaii, Hawaiian, State Affairs, Sustainable Living | Tagged: , , , | 1 Comment »

Public Invited to a West Hawaii Community Meeting With Mayor Kenoi

Posted on May 11, 2013 by Damon

Community Meeting

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Community, Hawaii | 1 Comment »

31st Annual Kona Daifukuji Orchid Club Show

Posted on May 9, 2013 by Damon

The 31st annual Kona Daifukuji Orchid Club (KDOC) show and sale is Sunday, July 28 at the Daifukuji Soto Mission Hall.

Orchids

The theme of this year’s show is “A Rainbow of Orchids” and the member’s annual indoor display of blooming orchids showcases the many colors found in numerous species. Enjoy an elaborate display of live blooming cattleya, cymbidium, dendrobium, phalaenopsis, miltonia, vanda and more. Cameras are welcome.

The show offers attendees complimentary refreshments, plus an orchid boutonniere corsage—while they last.  Time is 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Harpist Bonne Mitchell will serenade attendees in the morning and the Daifukuji Taiko drummers will perform outside in the parking lot at 10 a.m.

Orchid Taikos

Got growing questions? Veteran members will staff a Question and Answer Booth where attendees can get expert advice on caring for orchids. The club boasts eight charter members who each have been growing orchids at least 30 years at different Kona elevations.

In addition to the other displays, the annual event offers an outdoor sale of high-quality orchid species and hybrids.

The Kona Daifukuji Orchid Club is West Hawai‘i’s oldest orchidaceae organization with a mission to learn and foster orchid culture and promote fellowship among orchid collectors. The club meets the second Wednesday of every month at the Daifukuji Soto Mission Hall on Hwy. 11 at mile marker 114, just north of Kainaliu. For information, visit www.kdoc.us, get club updates at www.facebook.com/orchidsinparadise or phone 808-328-8501.

 

 

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Hilo Man Charged With Burglary, Woman Charged with Possession of Stolen Property

Posted on May 9, 2013 by Damon

Hawaiʻi Island police have charged a 26-year-old Hilo man for breaking into a home in Hilo last week.

Scottie I.K. Yanagawa

Scottie I.K. Yanagawa

At 2 p.m. Tuesday (May 7), after conferring with prosecutors, detectives from the Area I Criminal Investigations Section charged Scottie I.K. Yanagawa with first-degree burglary and second-degree theft. Yanagawa’s bail was set at $35,000. He is scheduled to make his initial court appearance Wednesday (May 8).

On May 3 at about 5:16 p.m., police received a call from a 38-year-old Hilo woman that her home in the upper Ainaola Drive area had been entered and several items had been removed.

Police received information that some of the items were sold to second-hand dealers in the Hilo area. Police were able to recover some of the stolen property, which led to Yanagawa’s identification. He was arrested Tuesday morning (May 7) and was held in the Hilo police cellblock while detectives continued the investigation.

Suzy Cho Chun

Suzy Cho Chun

In addition, a woman and a man who accompanied her were arrested over the weekend in connection with the same incident. On Saturday (May 4) at 2 p.m., 25-year-old Suzy Cho Chun of Hilo was arrested on suspicion of second-degree theft for being in possession of items from the burglary. She was held at the Hilo police cellblock while detectives from the Area I Criminal Investigations Section continued the investigation. At 11:45 p.m., after conferring with prosecutors, detectives charged Chun with second-degree theft. Her bail was set $2,000. She made her initial court appearance on Monday.

The man who was arrested with Chun was subsequently released without charges.

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Aikido of Hilo Hosted Its Annual Osensei Memorial Seminar

Posted on May 3, 2013 by Damon

Aikido of Hilo hosted its annual Osensei Memorial Seminar April 27-28, 2013. Acclaimed aikido practitioner and Buddhist scholar, John Stevens was hosted as guest instructor. Stevens is a 7th degree black belt in aikido and a world renowned master instructor. He was a noted professor of Buddhist Studies at Tohoku Fukushi University, in Sendai, Japan and has written over 30 books on Aikido, Buddhism and Asian culture.

Akido of Hilo 2

Every year, aikido dojos around the world commemorate the passing of the Aikido Founder, Morihei Ueshiba, Osensei, which took place April 26, 1969. This year, practitioners from around the Big Island came to Hilo to practice aikido and learn some of the deeper philosophical teachings of the art. On the last day of the seminar, aikido students and the general public were treated to a class in Zenga (Zen brush art), taught by Stevens. “It’s an honor for us to receive instruction in Hilo from someone like Stevens Sensei,” said Aikido of Hilo student, Andrew Arakawa.

Developed early in the 20th century, aikido principles were so profound and its martial art techniques so effective that there was tremendous public demand.  In the 1950s, aikido teachings were made public and have spread to become popular worldwide.

“Aikido is an art of peace and reconciliation. It’s important to have teachers like Stevens Sensei reinforce principles that we can all practice in the dojo and our daily lives”, said Klein Sensei. For more information about aikido visit http://www.AikidoOfHilo.org or contact Barbara Klein Sensei at 935-2454.

 

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Hospice of Hilo Honors Its Volunteers During Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon

Posted on May 2, 2013 by Damon

National Volunteer Week was April 21 – 27, 2013 and Hospice of Hilo honored its core of dedicated volunteers who provide support, companionship and dignity to members of the community facing serious and life-limiting illness at its Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon.

Hospice of Hilo honored it's volunteers last week.

Hospice of Hilo honored it’s volunteers last week.

“Volunteers have expressed their gratitude at being allowed to touch the hearts of Hospice of Hilo patients. They continue to set a great example of the honor and privilege of serving. We recognize, acknowledge and honor the 2000+ hours they have given in 2012 towards the service of the terminally ill,” said Hospice of Hilo Volunteer Manager, Pearl Lyman.

Hospice of Hilo volunteers often serve patients and families at the bedside but they also assist in the office, help raise awareness, contribute to educational programs, and provide fundraising support and more.

“They are truly the heart of our organization. We are so very grateful for all the volunteers give to ensure that each and every member of our community facing a life-limiting illness knows that they don’t have to face the journey alone and that with hospice care they can live better,” said Hospice of Hilo CEO, Brenda S. Ho.

The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization reports that there are an estimated 450,000 hospice volunteers providing more than 21 million hours of service to hospice programs each year. More than 1.65 million patients in the U.S. are cared for by hospice every year.

“Helping others is what I like to do and I believe there is no better way than to be there for them when they are facing the end of life,” said Hospice of Hilo Volunteer, Susan Pauole.

If you are interested in becoming a Hospice of Hilo volunteer, please call Pearl at 808-969-1733. More information is also at www.hospiceofhilo.org.

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“Did You Know?” – Spay or Neuter Campaign Announced by Hawaii Island Humane Society

Posted on May 1, 2013 by Damon

Did you know that kittens can go into heat and get pregnant as early as 4 months old and puppies around 5 months old?  If not sterilized, puppies and kittens can get pregnant and have a litter of their own just two months later. And it’s these accidental litters that end up in animal shelters with no place to call home.
Hawaii Island Humane SocietyTo reduce these accidental births, Hawaii Island Humane Society (HIHS), with funding provided by PetSmart Charities, is introducing the Did You Know? Campaign, featuring a special $20 spay or neuter surgery for puppies and kittens under six months of age during the month of June.

While some pet parents may worry that their pet is too young for this procedure, spaying and neutering is safe and easy for kittens and puppies as young as eight to 10 weeks old, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. In fact, Hawaii Island Humane Society has performed more than 5,000 pediatric spay/neuter surgeries since 2008.

“Many owners put off the procedure and wait until the puppy or kitten is six to eight months old,” says Donna Whitaker, HIHS Executive Director. “But by then, it can be too late. By then, a litter of puppies or kittens can be born.”

This special rate is even less than the organization’s normal low-cost priced and is available to all residents of Hawaii Island.

Pet parents who wish to take advantage of this offer must mention the “Did You Know?” promotion when they call to schedule their appointment.

Thanks to the PetSmart Charities grant, HIHS will provide 100 puppy and kitten sterilizations for $20 during June. Please visit HIHS.org, call the HIHS Spay Neuter Hotline at 987-7208 or call 329-1175 for more information or to schedule an appointment. Appointments will be taken on a first-come first-served basis beginning Monday, May 6.

 

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Big Island, Community, Environment, Hawaii | Tagged: , , , | Leave a Comment »

Big Island Police Arrest Puna Man in Connection With Arson in Hawaiian Acres

Posted on April 29, 2013 by Damon

Hawaiʻi Island police have arrested a Puna man in connection with a suspicious fire Friday (April 26).

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At 10:48 a.m. Friday, patrol officers and Fire Department personnel responded to a structure fire at Alulu Road and Oʻoaʻa Road in Hawaiian Acres. The fire was extinguished, but not before causing extensive damage to the structure. A Fire Department investigator determined that the fire was suspicious.

Investigation by detectives from the Area I Criminal Investigations Section led to the arrest Monday at 1:30 p.m. of 26-year-old Justin James Clark of Kurtistown. He is being held at the Hilo police cellblock on suspicion of arson while detectives continue the investigation with the assistance of a fire inspector.

Police ask that anyone with information about this case call Detective Wendall Carter at 961-2378 or email him at wcarter@hawaiicounty.gov. Witnesses may also call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 935-3311.

Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. Crime Stoppers is a volunteer program run by ordinary citizens who want to keep their community safe. Crime Stoppers doesn’t record calls or subscribe to caller ID. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Community, Hawaii, Legal, Puna | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

“Repaying it Backwards” – Honoka’a Class of 2013 Thanks Teachers, Class of 1938 Honored

Posted on April 29, 2013 by Damon

The Honoka‘a Hongwanji Buddhist Temple will host its 59th Annual Baccalaureate Service, Saturday, May 4, 2013 at 5 p.m., with a special theme: “Repaying It Backwards.”  The entire community is invited to attend services at the Social Hall, with potluck dinner to follow.

Honokaa High and Intermediate School’s first graduating seniors, the Class of 1938 (Fujie Matsunami and Florence Botelho, foreground, and Itsue Hino second row) are welcomed back to one of their classrooms by members of the Class of 2013, (front row) Monica Carlos and Amanda Agdepa, (second row) Rodel Lacanlale, Jr., Shawn Garcia, Serena Offenbacker, (back row) Jovi Valencia, William Hardisty, and Principal Glenn Gray. Photo by Sarah Anderson

Honokaa High and Intermediate School’s first graduating seniors, the Class of 1938 (Fujie Matsunami and Florence Botelho, foreground, and Itsue Hino second row) are welcomed back to one of their classrooms by members of the Class of 2013, (front row) Monica Carlos and Amanda Agdepa, (second row) Rodel Lacanlale, Jr., Shawn Garcia, Serena Offenbacker, (back row) Jovi Valencia, William Hardisty, and Principal Glenn Gray. Photo by Sarah Anderson

This year’s graduates are encouraged to show their gratitude for teachers who helped them along the way by submitting a short statement, thanking a specific teacher.  The teacher need not be present, and the student will have the option of personally reading the statement or having it presented by the emcee.  Public, private and home school students, and all teachers are invited to participate or attend.

In addition, the Baccalaureate Service will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the first graduating class of Honoka‘a High and Intermediate School, Class of 1938.  Attending alumni will be recognized as special guests and honorees.

Reverend David Fujimoto of the Puna Hongwanji Buddhist Temple will give a keynote talk and the New Dharma Band will perform.  Resident minister Reverend Kosho Yagi will officiate at the Baccalaureate service. Aloha attire is suggested.

The Baccalaureate Service is free to all students, teachers, families, friends and the general public of all faiths, creeds, and beliefs. Aloha wear suggested.

Because dinner will be served after the ceremony, please RSVP in advance to 775-0388. Inquiries regarding instructions for students, teacher nominations and statements can be sent to repayitbackwards@yahoo.com, or as a Facebook message to www.facebook.com/peacedayparade.

The event is supported by Domino’s Pizza (Waimea) and Cafe Il Mondo (Honoka‘a) who are providing incentive awards for participating students.

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Big Island, Community, Education, Hawaii, Kids | Tagged: | Leave a Comment »

Big Island Police Inviting Public to Participate in Anonymous Community Satisfaction Survey

Posted on April 29, 2013 by Damon

The public is invited to participate in an anonymous Community Satisfaction Survey for the Hawaiʻi Police Department during the month of May.

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Chief Harry Kubojiri said previous Community Satisfaction Surveys helped him identify actions the Police Department could take to increase community satisfaction. “Our partnership with the community is crucial,” Kubojiri said. “This survey is one of the ways we can improve that partnership by incorporating community feedback into our daily operations.”

The internet survey will be open from 9 a.m. Wednesday, May 1, until 4 p.m. Friday, May 31, at www.hawaiipolice.com. It takes about five minutes to complete and is limited to one survey per computer. Participants will be able to enter detailed comments and suggestions at the end of the survey. The respondent’s IP address will not be stored in the survey results.

The responses will be collected and compiled by an outside source. After the survey period, results will be posted on the Police Department’s website.

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Community, Hawaii, Legal | Tagged: , , | 2 Comments »

The National Weather Service Recognizes Ewa Beach as a StormReady/TsunamiReady Community

Posted on April 27, 2013 by Damon

The National Weather Service will officially designate Ewa Beach as a community that’s prepared for storms and tsunamis.

National Weather Service

The west Oahu community will be recognized as StormReady and TsunamiReady during a ceremony today at the Pride for Ewa event. The weather service’s Honolulu office says a grassroots group spearheaded a campaign to prepare Ewa Beach to respond to these natural hazards.

Communities become StormReady with steps like developing hazardous weather operations plans and holding annual weather safety talks. They become TsunamiReady by promoting public readiness through community education and the distribution of information and developing a tsunami plan which includes holding emergency exercises. Ewa now joins Kailua and Hau’ula with this readiness designation.

Members of the Ewa Beach Emergency Preparedness Committee made up of volunteer Ewa residents will attend this weekend’s ceremony. Maj. Gen. Darryll Wong of the Hawaii National Guard will also be there along with State Civil Defense, Oahu Emergency Management and National Weather Service officials.

The ceremony will be held at 12:00 p.m. at the Pride for Ewa – Celebrating Ohana Together – Hoalauna Park, 91-1330 Keaunui Drive, Ewa Beach, HI 96706. The event is free and is open to the public.

 

Filed under: Announcements, Community, Hawaii, National Affairs, Oahu, Security | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

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