High Surf Causes Havoc to Maui Boats – Destroys Three Boats

Posted on May 18, 2013 by Damon

DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation Lahaina harbor office is working to address removals of three vessels moored off the shore near Mala Wharf which went aground today due to high surf between six to ten feet. Witnesses said the vessels broke loose from their moorings during a large set of five waves. High surf is also forecast for Saturday. No rescues of boaters were required.

1. 30’ fiberglass sailboat “Best Revenge” which broke off its mooring.

The "Best Revenge"

The “Best Revenge”

Staff are working to obtain a bid from a salvage company to remove this vessel.

2. 30’ sailing vessel “Caribou III” which went aground also near Mala rocky shoreline due to high surf.

Caribou Before

Caribou III Before

The vessel had completely broken up by this afternoon.

Caribou After

Caribou III After

Staff are working to contact the vessel’s owner who has insurance and determine a removal plan. A marine salvage company is expected to begin removal work on Saturday, ocean conditions allowing.

3. 38’ trimaran “Triple Play” also aground at the Mala shoreline.

The "Triple Play"

The “Triple Play”

This vessel does not have insurance. Staff are working to obtain a bid for emergency salvage removal of the vessel.

 

Filed under: Announcements, Environment, Hawaii, Maui, Transportation, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

go! Offers Lift to Pacific Wings Passengers

Posted on May 14, 2013 by Damon

go! Hawaii’s Low Fare Airline announced today that it will offer space-available accommodations at no cost for Pacific Wings ticket holders affected by the carrier’s shutdown.

Go Plane

Jonathan Ornstein, go!’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented “We have always been committed to helping the people of Hawaii get where they need to go, and we will do everything we can to support Pacific Wings passengers and minimize any inconvenience and disruption.” Passengers that show a printed confirmation of a Pacific Wings booking at the go! ticket counter may fly standby at no cost on their original scheduled day of departure and route.

This offer applies for routes served by go! operated jet flights, and does not include flights operated by Mokulele Airlines.  Please see www.iflygo.com/pacificwings for details.

About go! Airlines

go! Airlines is celebrating 7 years of bringing low fares on the most popular routes within the state of Hawai‘i.  Since 2006, the airline has been dedicated to bring inter-island air travel to the people of Hawai‘i with convenient routes for kama‘aina. go! passengers fly in the comfort of the airline’s all jet fleet and enjoy true island-style hospitality. To book your tickets visit iflygo.com.

 

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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

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Community, Environment, Hawaii, Something New?, Transportation | Tagged: | Leave a Comment »

Historic F-104 Lands at the Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor

Posted on May 13, 2013 by Damon

The iconic Lockheed F-104A Starfighter, Serial No. 56-817, arrived at Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor on May 9, 2013, joining the Museum’s ever-expanding collection. The Starfighter is on long-term loan from Museum of Aviation Robins Air Force Base, Warner Robins, Georgia, and is the 43rd aircraft to join the Museum’s collection of historical and unique aircraft. It was transported by Pasha Hawaii and will be displayed in Hangar 79.

The iconic Lockheed F-104A Starfighter, Serial No. 56-817, arrived at Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor on May 9, 2013, joining the Museum’s ever-expanding collection. The Starfighter is on long-term loan from Museum of Aviation Robins Air Force Base, Warner Robins, Georgia, and is the 43rd aircraft to join the Museum’s collection of historical and unique aircraft. It was transported by Pasha Hawaii and will be displayed in Hangar 79.

The iconic Lockheed F-104A Starfighter, Serial No. 56-817, arrived at Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor on May 9, 2013, joining the Museum’s ever-expanding collection. The Starfighter is on long-term loan from Museum of Aviation Robins Air Force Base, Warner Robins, Georgia, and is the 43rd aircraft to join the Museum’s collection of historical and unique aircraft. It was transported by Pasha Hawaii and will be displayed in Hangar 79.

“This record-breaking aircraft has quite the history and we’re pleased to give it a new home,” said Museum Executive Director Kenneth DeHoff.

The Starfighter went into production in 1956 and was the first combat aircraft capable of easily sustaining twice the speed of sound. It held simultaneous world records for speed, altitude, and rate of climb. Due to its length of 54’ 9” and wingspan of only 21’ 11,” it was dubbed the Missile with a Man in It. The Starfighter served in the USAF from 1958 through 1975, as well as with several allied air forces around the world, including Japan.

Gen. Chuck Yeager famously displayed the “right stuff” during a high-altitude, record-breaking ascent in a rocket-assisted F-104, climbing to the edge of space at more than 100,000 feet.

f-104

The Museum invites donations of historic aircraft and aviation memorabilia. Donated artifacts are professionally cared for and enjoyed by millions of visitors from all over the world. The Museum also invites monetary donations for its Restoration and Education programs, as it is a nonprofit, private Museum, which depends on members and donors. To support the Museum, call 808-441-1006 or donate online at www.PacificAviationMuseum.org.

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Hawaii, Military, National Affairs, Oahu, Something New?, Transportation | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

Hawaii Biochar Products Signs Historical Memorandum of Understanding

Posted on May 9, 2013 by Damon

Nobel Laureate Nguyen Huu Ninh, Ph.D., CERED,  Larta Institute, Ecology Farming Corporation and Josiah Hunt, Hawaii Biochar Products agree to sign a memorandum of understanding to help strengthen biochar related proposals in Vietnam.

Josiah Hunt

Josiah Hunt

On May 8th, Hawaii Biochar Products, the Center for Environment Research Education and Development (CERED), Ecology Farming Corporation (Ecofarm) and Larta Institute – Asia Pacific will sign important memorandum of understanding.

Hawaii Biochar Products, a Puna, Hawaii based company will participate in a Vietnam Biochar industry testbed and training program. The program will further their mission to provide solutions for sustainable agriculture using organic materials and environmentally friendly processes.

Together, they will support project proposals that create and strengthen a Vietnam biochar industry and related energy, policy, and training infrastructure matching CERED’s leadership in climate change and sustainable agricultural practices and policy; Larta Institute Asia Pacific’s network of expertise and contacts, project management and subject matter expertise; Hawaii Biochar’s experience and technology utilization and network of technology sources; and EcoFarm’s working knowledge of sustainable agricultural programs in Vietnam, and mission.

CERED has identified the development of a Biochar Industry in Vietnam as a priority with the Vietnam National Government and leading regional institutions.

CERED will provide the leadership on proposal development and submission for resources to enable these proposals with input from the Proponents as needed.

The signing between these organizations will occur on Wednesday May 8th at 1pm in the University of Hawaii Innovation Center at Hilo in downtown Hilo, Hawaii.

About Hawaii Biochar Products – http://hawaiibiochar.com

Mission: To provide sustainable agricultural expertise and solutions for the state of Hawaii  and provide locally produced, cost-effective, agricultural products using organic materials and environmentally friendly processes. Josiah Hunt’s TEDx video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWbomZJn83U

About Dr. Nguyen Huu Ninh, Ph.D.

Chairman of the Center for Environment Research, Education and Development (CERED), Professor, Doctor (Hon.) of University of Pécs (Hungary), Doctor of Science (Hon.) of University of East Anglia (U.K.), Lead Author Member of the Fourth Assessment Report of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC): Climate Change 2007, which was awarded by Nobel Peace Prize in 2007.

About CERED

The objective of the Center for Environment Research Education and Development (CERED) is to carry out its strategy for environment and development research in Vietnam in cooperation with other domestic and international organizations.

About the Larta Institute

Larta helps regions around the world maximize the commercial potential of publicly funded R&D by supporting entrepreneurs in their commercialization efforts and nurturing the innovation ecosystem.

About Ecology Farming Corporation (EcoFarm)

Committed to effectively change cultivation towards sustainable agriculture production, increasing climate change adaptability, and improving farmer income.

 

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Coast Guard Conducts Harbor Tour with Rep. Tulsi Gabbard

Posted on May 3, 2013 by Damon

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard met with the U.S. Coast Guard on Oahu and conducted a tour of Honolulu Harbor, Friday.

Tulsi Coast Guard

Rear Adm. Charles W. Ray, 14th Coast Guard District commander, hosted the tour and provided Gabbard an up close look at Coast Guard operations in and around the Port of Honolulu. Gabbard received a briefing at the Coast Guard Sector Honolulu command center where she observed how the Coast Guard conducts search and rescue cases, responds to pollution incidents and maintains a law enforcement presence.

Tulsi Coast Guard Captain

She also visited the Coast Guard Cutters Morgenthau and Kukui where she spoke with the commanding officers and crew about their missions in Hawaii and throughout the Pacific.

 

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Big Island Police Investigating Puna Road Rage Incident

Posted on May 2, 2013 by Damon

Hawaiʻi Island police are investigating an unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle case stemming from a road rage incident in Puna on Monday (April 29).

HPDBadgeAfter a traffic dispute around 6:45 p.m., the driver of a blue Honda sedan hurled objects at the victim’s car and forced it onto the shoulder of Highway 130 near the 4-mile marker. The suspect then reached into the victim’s vehicle and assaulted him.

The victim was driving a Champagne colored Honda sedan and heading toward Pāhoa.

Anyone who witnessed this incident or who has any information about this case is asked to call Officer Jenny Lee at 965-2716 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.

 

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Hawaii, Highway 130, Idiots, Legal, Puna, Transportation, Wanted | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

Side Street Closures Along Ka’iminani Drive in North Kona for Resurfacing

Posted on April 26, 2013 by Damon

Motorists are advised of street closures and detours along Ka’iminani Drive, in North Kona scheduled for Monday, April 29.  Closures and detours for the roadways listed are scheduled between the hours of 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.  Detour signs will be posted along the streets directing motorists.  Residents on the side streets affected by the closure will receive flyers from the contractor, Jas W. Glover, a few days prior with information about the detour route.

Kaimini Drive

The traffic change is to allow road resurfacing and expected to last no later than May 17, 2013.

Scheduled street closures:
April 29-30
Ahiahi Street will be closed at Ka’iminani Drive affecting only southbound travel.
Traffic will be rerouted to Awakea Street to Ka’iminani Drive.

May 2
Oneone Street closure at Ka’iminani Drive will affect southbound travel.
Traffic will be rerouted to Awakea Street to Holoholo Street to Ka’iminani Drive

May 2-10
Keokeo Street closure will affect north and southbound travel.
The detour route for northbound travel will be Keokeo Street to Holu Street to Ahikawa Street to Aka Ula Street to Iliili Street to Ka’iminani Drive

Southbound travel will be routed to Ihumoe Street to Iliili Street to Ka’iminani Drive.

May 8-17
The Iliili Street closure will affect north and southbound travel.
Northbound motorists will use Iliili Street to Aka Ula Street to Ahikawa Street to Holu Street to Keokeo to Ka’iminani Drive.

The detour route for southbound travel is Ihumoe Street to Keokeo Street to Ka’iminani Drive.

This federally funded project in North Kona starts 103′ from the intersection with Highway 190 and ends at Ahiahi Street.  Improvements will focus on roadway reconstruction, and drainage improvements that include six-foot shoulders, tie-ins to private driveways on Ka’iminani, retaining walls and restriping of the roadway.

The $10 million improvement cost is shared with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) paying 80% and the County 20%.  Construction began in 2012 and scheduled for completion this year.

Related articles

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Community, Hawaii, Hawaii County Public Notices, Kona, Transportation | Tagged: , | Leave a Comment »

Car Crashes Into Pizza Hut in Keaau Shopping Center – Pizza Craving?

Posted on April 25, 2013 by Damon

A friend sent me this picture of an accident that happened today at the Keaau Shopping Center.

Folks that live here in Puna will recognize this place as the place to pick up Pizza Hut Pizza to Go!

Pizza Hut Crash

Filed under: Transportation, Puna, Food & Drink, Big Island, Hawaii, Announcements | Tagged: , | Leave a Comment »

Summertime Flight School Scheduled at Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor

Posted on April 25, 2013 by Damon

Flight School for sixth to eighth grade students will be in session again this summer at Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor. The Museum’s innovative and popular aviation program introduces Middle School age students to the history and science of flight on three consecutive weekdays, 9am to 3:30pm.

Sixth through eighth grade female students have the opportunity to soar at Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor’s new “Flight School” program this summer. Developed by Director of Education Dr. Shauna Tonkin, the Museum’s program introduces girls to the history and science of flight.

Sixth through eighth grade female students have the opportunity to soar at Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor’s new “Flight School” program this summer. Developed by Director of Education Dr. Shauna Tonkin, the Museum’s program introduces girls to the history and science of flight.

Flight School for Girls will be held May 28~30, June 18~20, June 25~27, and July 24~26. Flight School for Boys will be held June 5~7 and July 16~18. Advanced Flight School for Girls will be held July 9~11.

Students learn the basics of flight through demonstrations and experiments, tour historic aircraft, fly remote control planes, and “take to the skies” in the Museum’s flight simulation lab. They meet historic pioneers of aviation through presentations made by costumed interpreters such as Amelia Earhart and Rosie the Riveter.

Flight School

“This is a hands-on program that introduces youth to the heroes and pioneers of aviation, and helps them consider future careers in science, technology, engineering and math,” explains Dr. Shauna Tonkin who, as Director of Education at the Museum, developed the curriculum.

Upon successful completion of Flight School, the students celebrate with a Winging Ceremony.

For more information on this event contact Dr. Shauna Tonkin at ShaunaT@PacificAviationMuseum.org or 808-441-1005. Information is available online also at http://www.pacificaviationmuseum.org/education/flightschool

The Museum is located at 319 Lexington Boulevard on Ford Island, Pearl Harbor.

Pacific Aviation Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Its mission is to develop and maintain an internationally recognized aviation museum on historic Ford Island that educates young and old alike, honors aviators and their support personnel who defended freedom in The Pacific Region, and to preserve Pacific aviation history.

 

Filed under: Announcements, Education, Hawaii, Military, Oahu, Transportation | Tagged: , | Leave a Comment »

Pacific Fleet Commander and Hawaii Community Leaders Visit USS John C. Stennis at Sea

Posted on April 22, 2013 by Damon

This article so reminds me of when I got to visit the USS Ronald Reagan out at sea:

Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) at sea April 20.

I just returned from a day at sea with the amazing crew of USS John C. Stennis. The aircraft carrier and USS Mobile Bay are headed home following an 8+ month surge deployment. Our Navy and our nation asked much of these Sailors (and their families) and they delivered. Their amazing work in the Arabian Gulf and in the vital Indo-Asia-Pacific region showcased the Navy's warfighting readiness while advancing critical relationships with our partners and allies. Both are important missions that contribute to security and stability, and at which Stennis Strike Group excels. I could not be prouder of their efforts" Admiral Cecil Haney


“I just returned from a day at sea with the amazing crew of USS John C. Stennis. The aircraft carrier and USS Mobile Bay are headed home following an 8+ month surge deployment. Our Navy and our nation asked much of these Sailors (and their families) and they delivered. Their amazing work in the Arabian Gulf and in the vital Indo-Asia-Pacific region showcased the Navy’s warfighting readiness while advancing critical relationships with our partners and allies. Both are important missions that contribute to security and stability, and at which Stennis Strike Group excels. I could not be prouder of their efforts” Admiral Cecil Haney stated on Facebook.


Adm. Cecil Haney and several local community leaders from Hawaii, met with John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) leadership, observed flight operations at sea, an air-power demonstration and thanked the strike group team for their performance during the deployment.

Picture from when I toured the USS Ronald Reagan

Picture from when I toured the USS Ronald Reagan

“I want to thank everyone for what they have done for our nation and the great work,” said Haney. “All of you have made a big difference.”

This was the first visit to an aircraft carrier, and the chance to experience carrier operations at sea, for many of the guests.

Picture from when I toured the USS Ronald Reagan

Picture from when I toured the USS Ronald Reagan

“It was an eye opening experience,” said Malia Oshima Paul, Deputy Chief of Staff for U.S. Senator Brian Schatz. “I enjoyed seeing all of the inner workings in the hangar bay and seeing all of the Sailors working. I’m appreciative of everyone’s sacrifices and hard work.”

As their visit concluded, the guests boarded a C-2A Greyhound, taxied to one of the ship’s catapult tracks, then accelerated from zero to 185 nautical miles per hour in less than three seconds, launching from Stennis’ flight deck to return home.

Picture from when I toured the USS Ronald Reagan

Picture from when I toured the USS Ronald Reagan

JCSCSG, consisting of Stennis, Carrier Air Wing (CVW-9), Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21 and guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG-53), is returning from an eight-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 7th fleet areas of responsibility.

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Worldwide Voyage Receives First Major Sponsorship

Posted on April 21, 2013 by Damon

Hawaiian Airlines Pledges Crew Travel and Cargo Transportation

In a significant display of support for the mission of the Polynesian Voyaging Society’s Worldwide Voyage, Hawaiian Airlines has pledged to provide air transportation for PVS crew and cargo throughout Hawaiian’s route network for the duration of the four-year voyage.

Hikianalia on its way to Hawaii last year.

Hikianalia on its way to Hawaii last year.

Under a sponsorship contract signed this week, Hawaiian Airlines will provide 32 million air miles for crew travel, as well as cargo support for supplies needed as the sailing canoes Hōkūle‘a and Hikianalia travel to international ports throughout the Pacific.  The value of the sponsorship is estimated to be $1 million.

Hawaiian will be the lead sponsor of the voyage, which will be known as “The Worldwide Voyage Sponsored by Hawaiian Airlines.”

The Dalai Lama blessed the Hokulea at Kualoa Park last year. Photo courtesy of Pillars of Peace

The Dalai Lama blessed the Hōkūle‘a at Kualoa Park last year. Photo courtesy of Pillars of Peace

“We are deeply appreciative of Hawaiian’s extraordinary commitment to our mission to inspire young people throughout the world to care for and sustain our planet, and to coexist in peace and compassion,” said navigator Nainoa Thompson, PVS president.  “Sailing Hōkūle‘a has taught us the importance of understanding and connecting with our natural resources.  She is a reminder to us all of the need to celebrate and protect the natural and cultural treasures of Island Earth.”

“The Worldwide Voyage honors a legacy of connecting islands throughout the Pacific that Polynesian navigators created centuries ago. It is our privilege as modern-day navigators and beneficiaries of that legacy to support this voyage and its message of sustainability and resource protection,” said Mark Dunkerley, Hawaiian Airlines’ president and CEO.

The Worldwide Voyage Sponsored by Hawaiian Airlines will begin in June 2013 with a series of voyages throughout the Hawaiian archipelago, and continue through 2017 with visits to more than 60 ports in more than 20 countries.

The Hōkūle‘a being worked on. Picture courtesy of Pillars of Peace

The Hōkūle‘a being worked on. Picture courtesy of Pillars of Peace

The 48-month voyage involves more than 400 crewmembers from 16 countries.  This includes educators and scientists who will be using the voyage to research ocean wellness, using Native Hawaiian and western science research methods, and to create voyaging-based curriculum to be disseminated in as many Hawai‘i schools as possible, including Mālama Honua, a newly created charter school affiliated with the voyage.  Hikianalia, the solar- and wind-powered support and sister vessel to Hōkūle‘a, will be a platform for marine science, documentation, education outreach, communication and teacher training, while Hōkūle‘a will continue to be a platform for indigenous knowledge, experiential learning and sustainability.

PVS expects to have approximately 5,000 of Hawai‘i’s school children physically on the canoes during the first year of the Worldwide Voyage, and more than 100,000 Hawai’i students and teachers on board PVS’s third canoe, the website http://hokulea.org, throughout the four-year voyage as part of their curriculum.  Students from several public and private schools in Hawai‘i have already been involved in preparing for the voyage by assisting in dry docks (restoration and repair work) for Hōkūle‘a and Hikianalia, studying the sail plan, and participating in crew training and classroom work on the wa‘a.

Photo courtesy of Pillars of Peace

The blessing of the Hokulea. Photo courtesy of Pillars of Peace

“The involvement of our youth has been one of the most powerful aspects of planning for this voyage,” remarked Thompson.  “We can count on this next generation of voyagers to perpetuate the values and practices that will guide our planet toward good health.”

Commented Dunkerley: “The students who will be touched by this voyage, either by participating in it or by learning from the science-based curriculum it will produce, are the future workforce of Hawaiian Airlines.  So it is fitting that Hawai‘i-based companies such as ours support this journey.”

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Hawaii, Hawaiian, State Affairs, Tourism, Transportation | Tagged: , , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Big Island Police Identify Pedestrian that Was Killed on Highway 11

Posted on April 18, 2013 by Damon

HPDBadge

Police traffic investigators have identified a man who died Wednesday (April 17) from injuries he sustained in a motor vehicle/pedestrian collision on Highway 11 in the area of the 18-mile marker in Glenwood.

The victim was identified as 21-year-old Brendan Charlie of a Mountain View address.

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Hawaii, Legal, Transportation | Tagged: , | 1 Comment »

Search Underway for Possible Person in Water Near Kailua-Kona

Posted on April 18, 2013 by Damon

The Coast Guard is searching for a possible person in the water after a personal watercraft was found adrift near Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, Thursday.

A blue wave runner was found by a commercial fishing vessel two miles west of Kailua-Kona and returned to its owner at Jet Ski Island. The watercraft was confirmed to belong to a local rental company, who suspected an attempted theft may have occurred.

A Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter

A Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter

A Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew was diverted to conduct a search of the area and has been on scene since approximately 10 a.m. Big Island Fire is assisting with a surface asset and shoreline search of the area.

The Coast Guard requests that anyone with information on the possible person in distress please contact the Sector Honolulu Command Center at (808) 842-2600.

 

Filed under: Announcements, Hawaii, Kona, Legal, Military, Missing, Rumors, Transportation | Tagged: , | Leave a Comment »

Motor Vehicle/Pedestrian Collision on Highway 11 Kills Man

Posted on April 17, 2013 by Damon

An unidentified man died Wednesday (April 17) from injuries he sustained in a motor vehicle/pedestrian collision on Highway 11 in the area of the 18-mile-marker in Glenwood.

HPDBadgeResponding to a 3:06 a.m. call, Puna patrol officers determined that a 55-year-old Hilo man was operating a 2013 Toyota pick-up truck and traveling south on Highway 11 when he struck the male walking on the roadway.  The pedestrian was taken by Fire Rescue personnel to the Hilo Medical Center where he later died at 4:28 a.m.

The driver of the truck was not injured. The pedestrian had no identification and police are asking the public’s help for identification. The man is described as being a Caucasian male, late 20’s to early 30’s in age, 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall, about 180 pounds, long black hair, beard and mustache.  Police do not suspect that speed, alcohol or drugs were involved. Traffic Enforcement Unit officers have initiated a negligent homicide investigation and have ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.

Anyone with information is asked to call Officer Tuckloy Aurello at 961-8119 or the police non-emergency number at 935-3311.

This is the 12th traffic fatality this year compared to 11 at the same time last year.

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West Hawaii’s Annual D.A.R.E. Day Celebration

Posted on April 16, 2013 by Damon

On May 2nd 2013, Auto Body Hawaii will partner with the Kailua Fire Department & the D.A.R.E. Program in West Hawaii’s annual D.A.R.E. Day celebration.

DARE

Auto Body Hawaii will be providing a totally damaged vehicle to be used as a visual aid in an effort to teach children about the dangers of driving while under the influence of drugs & alcohol.

This will mark the 6th time Auto Body Hawaii has directly partnered with the fire department & local first responders by providing them access to vehicles that have been damaged so they may learn how to respond more effectively to accidents.

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

A Bad Day at the Pahoa Post Office – Car Goes Postal!

Posted on April 15, 2013 by Damon

A bad day at the “Post” Office:

Post Office Truck 1

The owner of this truck thought he was in reverse… but he was actually in drive!

Post Office Truck 2

This accident happened about 1:30 this afternoon blocking off the access to the Pahoa Post Office from Main Government Road.Post Office Truck 3

It didn’t look like anyone was injured and the guy just seemed a bit embarrassed!Post Office Truck 4

Filed under: Big Island, Comedy, Hawaii, Idiots, Pahoa, Transportation | Tagged: | 1 Comment »

Open Cockpit Day at Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor

Posted on April 15, 2013 by Damon

Did you ever wonder what you’d look like sitting in the cockpit of one of America’s famous warbirds? You’ll have the opportunity to sit in the seat, man the controls, and see the instruments of a WWII fighter or modern-day jet fighter at Open Cockpit Day, Saturday May 11, 9am to 5pm at Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor in Hangar 79.

Open Cockpit2

Open Cockpit Day is free with paid Museum admission and free for Museum Members.

Guests younger than 10 years of age will require parental supervision to climb up and into the aircraft. Guests must also be able to climb boarding stairs and in to a cockpit to participate. Museum visitors are invited to bring their own cameras and the Museum staff will do the rest. Pilot’s gear, the Museum’s vintage aircraft, and meetings with aviation heroes will create a unique family day.

Open Cockpit

Download a free flight simulator coupon and purchase tickets online at www.PacificAviationMuseum.org. Phone 808-441-1007 for more information or email Education@PacificAviationMuseum.org.

Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor is open 9am to 5pm daily except Christmas, New Year’s and Thanksgiving days, and is accessed by shuttles from the USS Arizona Memorial/Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. A 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor is located at 319 Lexington Boulevard, Historic Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, Oahu, Honolulu, Hawaii 96818.

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Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor (South) Phase I Improvements to Begin

Posted on April 12, 2013 by Damon

Work will soon begin at the Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor.  The Department of the Army, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Honolulu District, has issued a letter of permission authorizing the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Boating and Outdoor Recreation (DOBOR) to begin work on the Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor (South) Phase I Improvements.

Me in front of an LCAC at the Kawaihae Harbor

Me in front of an LCAC at the Kawaihae Harbor

The Phase I project has been delayed for over 4-1/2 years due to environmental disputes concerning the potential impact to coral and listed species in the Endangered Species Act (ESA). At the request of the Federal regulatory agencies and the Army Corps of Engineers, DOBOR has completed numerous studies and has made revisions to the project design to mitigate damage to corals and impacts to ESA listed species. The Department of Army Permit (Letter of Permission) was finally issued on March 21, 2013.

“I am pleased that we will now be moving forward with the much needed improvements to the Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor (South),” said Senator Malama Solomon, who represents District 4, encompassing Hilo, Hāmākua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa and Kona. “These improvements have been long-awaited by the North Hawaiʻi community and will greatly enhance the safety and capacity of our harbor.”

The project will include an eight foot wide 445-foot long floating dock held in place by 17 concrete piles, each 16-½ inches in diameter.  In addition to the floating dock, a 47 foot long access ramp, gangway and 25 morning buoys which will provide 25 berthing stalls for light draft vessels to “Tahiti moor” to the floating dock, will be incorporated in the construction.

Groundbreaking for the Phase I project is expected to take place in June of 2013.

Background

The Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor (South) was dredged in the 1970s and the breakwater structures were completed in the late 1990s by the Army Corps of Engineers for use as a small boat harbor (Federal Light Draft Navigational Improvement Project).

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Environment, Hawaii, Kohala, State Affairs, Transportation | Tagged: , , , | Leave a Comment »

Na Wahine o Ke Kai and Moloka‘i Hoe Announce They Will Join Forces for 2013 Race

Posted on April 11, 2013 by Damon

Registration Open for 35TH Na Wahine O Ke Kai and 61st Moloka‘i Hoe

For the first-time in the history of both races, Na Wahine o Ke Kai and Moloka‘i Hoe race committees are joining forces on all aspects of race planning, including logistics and sponsorships.  It is the hope that this new direction will align resources and bring more support to both races.

Molokai Combo“We are happy to team up with the Moloka‘i Hoe, officially,” said Hannie Anderson, Race Director and co-founder of Na Wahine O Ke Kai.  “While we have always helped each other’s race over the years, we felt it important that we pull all our resources together so that we can leverage our strengths to put on the premier races for the sport of outrigger canoe racing in the world.”

Photos by Brooke Wilson

Photos by Brooke Wilson

For over 35 years, Na Wahine O Ke Kai has been organized by co-founders Anderson, Shelly Gilman, Haunani Campos-Olds, Carleen Ornellas, and Rosie Lum.  The Na Wahine O Ke Kai committee will team up with organizers from the O’ahu Canoe Racing Association (OCRA), who put on the men’s Moloka‘i Hoe.

“This coming together will allow us to streamline a lot of the logistics that go into planning such a large event,” said Stan Kaleiana‘ole Dickson, Moloka‘i Hoe race director.
Molokai 2
Organizers anticipate more than 200 crews will compete in this year’s races, including clubs from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, Guam, Tahiti and the continental United States.  Each year over 2000 paddlers from around the world compete in the Na Wahine O Ke Kai and Moloka‘i Hoe.

The course is a daunting 41-mile, non-stop race from the island of Moloka‘i to the island of O‘ahu, taking a crew of ten about 5-6 hours to complete.  Crew changes occur every 20-30 minutes in the open ocean, with paddlers in the canoe rolling over one side while the rested paddlers are climbing in the canoe from the other side.  Crews contending for the title must endure major training and preparation for months in order to complete the race.

Molokai 3
Of Polynesian origin, the canoes are about 45 feet long and weigh about 400 lbs.  Six paddlers sit evenly spaced the length of the canoe.  The canoe is very narrow, about 2 feet wide, and stabilized by an ama, a 10-foot long float which is connected to the canoe by two wooden struts called ‘iako.  It is this catamaran design that allows the canoes to venture into large open ocean swells.  While the sport of outrigger canoe racing originated in Hawai‘i, today it can be found all over world, with healthy participation from girls and boys and men and women of all ages.

Na Wahine O Ke Kai
Race Date:  September 22, 2013
Race Start:  8:00 a.m., Hale O Lono Harbor, Moloka‘i
Race End:  Duke Kahanamoku Beach, Waikiki (Fronting the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa)

For additional info, registration, and pre-race activities, please visit http://www.nawahineokekai.com.

Moloka‘i Hoe
Race Date:  October 13, 2013
Race Start: 8:00 a.m., Hale O Lono Harbor, Moloka’i
Race End:  Duke Kahanamoku Beach, Waikiki (Fronting the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa)

For additional info, registration, and pre-race activities, please visit the website, http://www.molokaihoe.com

ABOUT THE NA WAHINE O KE KAI
Hannie Anderson, Na Wahine O Ke Kai co-race founder and race director, dreamed of the day women would conquer the rough waters of the Kaiwi channel.  In 1954, then 17 years old, Anderson and two of her teammates from the Waikiki Surf Club hitched a ride on a boat from O‘ahu to Moloka‘i to watch their men’s team paddle in the Moloka‘i Hoe, a race across the Kaiwi channel open only to men.  Anderson’s coach was furious that the girls had found their way to Moloka‘i, but reluctantly allowed them to observe the race from the safety of the escort boat.  After six hours of observing their male counterparts, the girls were convinced that women were capable of making the crossing.  It wasn’t until 25 years later that Anderson and friends saw that dream come true with the creation of the first official women’s race on October 15, 1979.

Now in its 35th year, the Na Wahine O Ke Kai continues to be the premier competition for female outrigger canoe racing in the world.

ABOUT THE MOLOKA’I HOE
On October 12, 1952, three koa outrigger canoes launched through the surf at Kawakiu Bay on Moloka’i’s west side. Powered by six paddlers, each of the canoes was bound for Oʻahu across 38+ miles of open ocean in the Kaiwi Channel. Eight hours and 55 minutes later, the Molokaʻi canoe, Kukui O Lanikaula, landed on the beach at Waikiki in front of the Moana Hotel.  Thus began the world’s most prestigious outrigger canoe race, the Molokaʻi Hoe.

Registration is now being accepted online for the 2013 Na Wahine O Ke Kai and Moloka‘i Hoe open ocean outrigger canoe races.  Teams can access the race registration system at www.molokaihoe.com and www.nawahineokekai.com.

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Environment, Hawaii, Hawaiian, Health, Molokai, Something New?, Sports, Transportation | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

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