Google Glasses Winners Announced – List of Winners

Posted on March 29, 2013 by Damon

Well I feel very fortunate to be one of 8,000 Google users to be selected to try out the new Google Glasses.

Here is the tweet that I tweeted that landed me this privilege:

Winning Tweet

Click twice to read

You can view the full list of winners here:  Google Glass First Wave Recipients.

This is what I said in my winning tweet:
#ifihadglass I would show the world what Hawaii is like as a resident and not just as a tourist.

Related articles

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Education, Hawaii, National Affairs, Rumors, Smuck Awards, Technology, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

I’ve Been Selected to Try Out the New Google Glasses!!!!

Posted on March 28, 2013 by Damon

Oh my god!  I just got selected to be one of the BETA users of the new GOOGLE Glasses!!!

Google GlassOf course I will have to fly to the mainland and sign off on a bunch of things before I become one of Googles Testers!!!!

I hope this isn’t a joke and will keep folks updated!

Mahalo Google and Project Glass!

http://www.google.com/glass/start/

Many folks on the internet are considering this the same thing as winning the “Golden Ticket to the Willie Wonka Chocolate Factory”.

I’m totally stoked and will learn more about what I need to do to get these glasses.

From my current understanding… I will need to pay my own way to the mainland to get them… but it’s so worth it!!!!

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Environment, Hawaii, National Affairs, Rumors, Something New?, Technology, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , | 4 Comments »

Wordless Wednesday – The Coolest Hawaii Cliff Jumping Video You Will Ever See

Posted on March 20, 2013 by Damon

Check out this video that was uploaded today on YouTube by Devin Super Tramp that already has over 48,000 page views.  It’s one of the coolest Hawaii cliff jumping videos I’ve ever seen!

Cliff Jump

Cliff Jumping Hawaii – Proof

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Entertainment, Environment, Hawaii, Health, Kids, Something New?, Sports, State Affairs, Tourism, Unexplained Phenomenon, Wordless Wednesday | Tagged: , | Leave a Comment »

The Latest Hawaiian Volcano Observatory Update

Posted on March 16, 2013 by Damon

The latest update from the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory:

This photo looks northeast and shows Puʻu ʻŌʻō crater. Recent activity has been focused around a few spatter cones on the crater floor.

HVO1

At the far edge of the crater, a small lava pond has been active and has been the source of flows extending northeast of Puʻu ʻŌʻō. Those flows are visible at the top-center of the photo. Just below the horizon two small sources of smoke mark where the flow front is burning lichen and moss covering older ʻaʻā flows.

A closer look at the flow extending northeast of Puʻu ʻŌʻō. Puʻu ʻŌʻō cone is at the right edge of the photo, and view is towards the northeast.

hvo2

In the foreground, two sources of fume mark the path of the lava tube supplying lava to the flow front. In the top-left, a few sources of smoke mark where the flow margin is burning moss and lichen on older flows. Today, the flow front was just over 4 km (2.5 miles) from the vent on Puʻu ʻŌʻō.

South winds permitted clear views into the south portion of the Overlook crater, which is often obscured by thick fume.

HVO3

The bright orange area is the location where lava at the surface of the lake sinks back into the system, with spattering and degassing common in this area. A broad ledge of recently deposited lava occupies much of the south portion of the crater.

Spattering is common in the area where lava sinks back into the system, and this photo shows these processes are occurring in a small grotto.

hvo4

In the right portion of the photo, the ledge occupying much of the south part of the Overlook crater is visible. Parallel lines along the front face of this ledge might appear at first glance to be layering within the ledge, but are actually thin deposits of lava that mark recent levels of the lava lake, much like bathtub rings.

 

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Big Island, Environment, Hawaii, Hawaiian, Something New?, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , | Leave a Comment »

Councilman Ilagan’s Statement About Yesterday’s Puna Geothermal Venture Steam Release

Posted on March 14, 2013 by Damon

At approximately 4 p.m. on March 13, Puna Geothermal Venture (PGV), tripped off line and experienced a steam release. The steam was released through the plant’s Emergency Steam Release System, which abates hydrogen sulfide emissions.

PGV

Council Member Greggor Ilagan of District 4, went directly from Hilo’s County Council Meeting to the PGV site in Puna Wednesday afternoon. Council Member Ilagan discussed the plant’s steam release with staff of PGV, which included Operation Manager, William E. Wiebe, and Plant Manager Cliff Townsend.

“Everyone worked together quickly and effectively. PGV’s safety mechanisms were put into action immediately, the public was notified, and the appropriate authorities took action. I feel it’s better to be overly cautious than unprepared” said Council Member Ilagan.

PGV staff monitored the facility and surrounding area throughout the late afternoon and into the evening. The Fire Department’s personnel also assisted in these efforts. “Everything went well…precautionary procedures were implemented early on. The community did a great job. Those that were concerned chose to leave and seek information,” said Darryl Oliveira, Director of Civil Defense.

The Pahoa Community Center, with direction from the Department of Parks and Recreation, opened their doors for those who preferred to remain outside of the area. According to Ken Nagasawa, Director of the Pahoa Community Center, “just one” couple arrived in the evening after the center had been notified to “stand down,” at approximately 6:45 p.m.

The Hawaiian Electric Light Company (HELCO), released a statement at 6:45 p.m. on March 13, which explained that power to 20,095 customers in the Waikoloa, Waika, Kailua, Kaloko, Captain Cook, Kuakini, Waiakea Uka and lower Puna, which included the PGV plant, was interrupted when HELCO’s transmission line tripped open. The PGV plant tripped off line following HELCO’s power interruption. HELCO continues to investigate the exact cause of the event.

“I’d like to thank Civil Defense, Fire Department, Department of Parks and Recreation, and staff of the Pahoa Community Center for their swift execution of contingency plans.” Council Member Ilagan continued, “To the residents of Puna and Hawai’i County, thank you for maintaining calm with Aloha, during this event.”

Related articles

 

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Community, County Council, Environment, Hawaii, Pahoa, Puna, Rumors, Security, Technology, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

World’s Oldest Known Wild Bird Hatches Another Chick

Posted on March 13, 2013 by Damon

A  Laysan albatross known as “Wisdom” – believed to be at least 62 years old – has hatched a chick on Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge for the sixth consecutive year. Early Sunday morning, February 3, 2013, the chick was observed  pecking its way into the world by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologist Pete Leary, who said the chick appears healthy. Wisdom was first banded in 1956, when she was incubating an egg in the same area of the refuge. She was at least five years old at the time.

Wisdom and her chick

Wisdom and her chick.  Photo Credit: J. Klavitter/USFWS

“Everyone continues to be  inspired by Wisdom as a symbol of hope for her species,” said Doug Staller, the Fish and Wildlife Service Superintendent for the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (Monument), which includes Midway Atoll NWR.

Staff and volunteers stationed on Midway are responsible for monitoring the health of the beautiful seabirds that arrive every year  by the hundreds of thousands to nest. Upon the seabirds’ arrival, field staff  monitor them and gather information for one of the longest and oldest continuous survey data sets for tropical seabirds in the world.

Wisdom has worn out five bird bands since she was first banded by U.S. Geological Survey scientist Chandler Robbins in 1956. Robbins estimated Wisdom to be at least 5 years old at the time, since this is the earliest age at which these birds breed. Typically, they breed at 8 or 9 years of age after a very involved courtship lasting over several years so Wisdom could be even older than 62.

Wisdom preens her chick. Photo credit: J. Klavitter/USFWS

Wisdom preens her chick. Photo credit: J. Klavitter/USFWS

“As Wisdom rewrites the record books, she provides new insights into the remarkable biology of seabirds,” said Bruce Peterjohn, chief of the North American Bird Banding Program at the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in Laurel, MD. “It is beyond words to describe the amazing accomplishments of this wonderful bird and how she demonstrates the value of bird banding to better understand the world around us. If she were human, she would be elible for Medicare in a couple years yet she is still regularly raising young and annually circumnavigating the Pacific Ocean. Simply incredible.”

Peterjohn said Wisdom has likely raised at least 30 to 35 chicks during her breeding life, though the number may well be higher because experienced parents tend to be better parents than younger breeders. Albatross lay only one egg a year, but it takes much of a year to incubate and raise the chick. After consecutive years in which they have successfully raised and fledged a chick, the parents may take the occasional next year off from parenting. Wisdom is known to have nested in 2006 and then every year since 2008.

Sue Schulmeister, Manager of the Midway Atoll NWR, said, “Wisdom is one is one of those incredible seabirds that has provided the world valuable information about the longevity of these beautiful creatures and reinforces the importance of breeding adults in the population. This information helps us measure the health of our oceans that sustain albatross.”

Almost as amazing as being a parent at 62 is the number of miles Wisdom has likely logged – about 50,000 miles a year as an adult – which means that Wisdom has flown at least two million to three million miles since she was first banded. Or, to put it another way, that’s four to six trips from the Earth to the Moon and back again, with plenty of miles to spare.

Related articles

Filed under: Announcements, Environment, National Affairs, Something New?, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , | Leave a Comment »

Halema‘uma‘u Eruption Reaches Five-Year Anniversary

Posted on March 12, 2013 by Damon

Kīlauea Volcano’s summit eruption within Halema‘uma‘u Crater marks its fifth year of continuous activity on Tues., Mar. 19.

Park Ranger Dean Gallagher engages visitors with a “Life on the Edge” talk, held daily at the Jaggar Museum Overlook in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. NPS Photo

Park Ranger Dean Gallagher engages visitors with a “Life on the Edge” talk, held daily at the Jaggar Museum Overlook in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. NPS Photo

To commemorate this anniversary, rangers at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park will offer additional “Life on the Edge” talks at the Jaggar Museum observation deck, which overlooks the fuming, enlarging summit vent. The 20-minute talks, offered on Mar. 19 at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m., encompass the dramatic geological and mythological history of Halema‘uma‘u Crater.

Kīlauea’s summit vent opened at 2:58 a.m., HST, on Mar. 19, 2008, when an explosive eruption created a gaping hole about 115 feet wide on the south wall of Halema‘uma‘u Crater.  Nighttime glow from this hole suggested the presence of molten lava, but it wasn’t until six months later that a lake of roiling lava deep within the vent was definitively observed by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) scientists.

With the opening of the Halema‘uma‘u vent, already-high summit sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas emission rates increased even more, resulting in increased vog (volcanic air pollution) downwind.  Although the summit SO2 emissions have declined since 2008, they are still averaging 800-1200 tonnes/day, creating hazardous conditions along closed sections of the park’s Crater Rim Drive and poor air quality farther downwind of the vent.

Since 2008, rock collapses within the vent have enlarged its opening on the floor of Halema‘uma‘u Crater.  The vent is now about 520 feet by 700 feet (the area of about 21 Olympic-sized pools), and, according to HVO Scientist-in-Charge Jim Kauahikaua, is likely to continue growing through further collapses of overhung sections of the vent rim.

Halemaumau then and now1

Kīlauea Volcano’s summit vent  “then and now.”  In April 2008, a month after it opened, the vent within Halema‘uma‘u Crater was about 115 feet in diameter.  As of March 2013, it is more than 500 feet across. USGS photos.

Halemaumau then and now2

Kauahikaua describes the lava within the vent as a continuously circulating gas-rich “foam” that rises and falls depending on changes in Kīlauea’s subsurface magma pressure.  The lava lake reached its highest level to date on Oct. 26, 2012, when the lava surface rose to within 72 feet of the vent rim.

While the actual lava lake is not visible from safe viewing areas, its glow—the diffusion of incandescent lava light within the gas plume rising from the vent—is spectacular and easily observed from Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park overlooks on clear nights.  When the lava lake level is especially high, park visitors can sometimes hear sharp sounds as rocks in the vent wall expand and crack due to the increased heat.

“The amazing beauty of this eruption, and the ease of viewing opportunities within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, provides both visitors and residents with unforgettable experiences,” said Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando. “Where else in the world can you park your car, and walk just a few feet to behold the spectacle of one of the world’s most active volcanoes?”

Jaggar Museum and the overlook are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. Other vantage points for viewing Halema‘uma‘u within the park include Kīlauea Overlook, Kīlauea Iki Overlook, and Keanakako‘i Overlook.

The summit eruption, Kīlauea’s second longest since the early 1900s, can also be experienced through photos, videos, and webcam images posted on HVO’s website (http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov).  A USGS Fact Sheet about this ongoing eruption is currently in press, and will be available online in the coming months.

 

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Big Island, Earthquakes, Education, Entertainment, Environment, Hawaii, Hawaiian, State Affairs, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

CNN Special – Hawaii Deals with Japan’s Tsunami Debris

Posted on March 11, 2013 by Damon

Here is the video that aired on CNN – “Hawaii Deals with Japan’s Tsunami Debris“

While CNN was setting up shop, HWF and volunteers quickly removed over 200 pounds of marine debris from the coastline with an hour’s effort. And until there is a better solution, HWF and volunteers will continue to pick up the pieces here in Hawaiʻi nei.

FYI another follow-up story that focuses on marine debris problems in general, NOAA’s Nets-to-Energy Program, and recycled “ocean plastic” bottled cleaning products by SF-based company, Method, will air on CNN national and international broadcasting programs in April.

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Environment, Hawaii, Health, National Affairs, Opala in Paradise, State Affairs, Television, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , , , | 1 Comment »

Hawaii Wildlife Fund to Be Featured on CNN – Japanese Tsunami Marine Debris and Kamilo Beach

Posted on March 10, 2013 by Damon

On Tuesday (March 5th), Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund (HWF) staff and several volunteers brought an LA-based CNN news crew down to Kamilo Point to talk story about potential Japanese Tsunami Marine Debris and marine debris problems along the southeast coastline.

CNN correspondent Kyung Lah interviewing HWF’s Megan Lamson at Kamilo. Photo courtesy of Harold Leatherman/HWF volunteer.

CNN correspondent Kyung Lah interviewing HWF’s Megan Lamson at Kamilo. Photo courtesy of Harold Leatherman/HWF volunteer.

The story will be told by CNN news correspondent Kyung Lah. The first part of this story will air on Mon., March 11th at 9am Eastern Standard Time “EST” (4am in Hawaiʻi“ HST” so have your DVRs ready!), at 10am EST (5am HST), and will re-run throughout the day. HWF will post a link on their website  www.wildhawaii.org and on their Facebook page  www.facebook.com/hawaiiwildlifefund as soon as it appears online.

This story will appear as a special on the two-year anniversary of the huge tsunami that originated in the Fukushima district in Japan.

HWF would again like to express our deepest sympathy to the victims and victims’ family of this natural disaster. First and foremost, this event was a human tragedy. Thousands of people died, and yes indeed, tons of debris were also released into the ocean. While we are thankful for the amount of attention this event has caused for marine debris awareness around the globe, we want all of our volunteers to recognize that marine debris has been a serious problem for decades (basically since the invention of plastic). HWF has picked up international debris from shorelines throughout the Hawaiian Archipelago since 1998 and realizes that marine debris is a people problem, not solely the result of a single tsunami event or country of origin.

Let us not forget that each of us contributes to this problem daily by using (and improperly disposing of) single-use throwaway and non-recyclable plastic products.  In turn, we can each be part of the solution and choose to re-use, reduce, recycle, and refuse (excess packaging, single-use items, etc.) and participate in local cleanup events.

While CNN was setting up shop, HWF and volunteers quickly removed over 200 pounds of marine debris from the coastline with an hour’s effort. And until there is a better solution, HWF and volunteers will continue to pick up the pieces here in Hawaiʻi nei.

FYI another follow-up story that focuses on marine debris problems in general, NOAA’s Nets-to-Energy Program, and recycled “ocean plastic” bottled cleaning products by SF-based company, Method, will air on CNN national and international broadcasting programs in April.

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Big Island, Environment, Hawaii, National Affairs, Opala in Paradise, Television, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , , , , | 2 Comments »

Special Interest Legislation Introduced by Councilwoman Margaret Wille

Posted on March 9, 2013 by Damon

Councilwoman Margaret Wille sent out a newsletter yesterday and she had the following special interest legislation that she is introducing at the upcoming council meetings on March 12th and March 13th.

margaretwille

Department of Environmental Management to provide a comprehensive overview of its solid waste programs – Comm. 169 (9:45 am 3/12/13)

I am requesting this presentation so that the Council is not asked to approve solid waste contracts on a piecemeal –case by case basis – without first having a comprehensive understanding of this important responsibility of County government.   

Urging the Mayor to Immediately Implement the West Hawai‘i School Impact Fee – Reso. 75 (10:45 am 3/12/13)

I am introducing this Resolution because of  Mayor Kenoi’s Administration’s on-going refusal to implement DOE’s West Hawaii School Impact Fee program.

Audit of the Police Department’s Receipt, Storage, and Disposal of Evidence – Reso.78  (1 pm 3/12/13)

I am requesting this audit to promote and reinforce trust in government and ensure that all evidence and confiscated property is being properly handled.

Corporation Counsel Conflict of Interest – Reso. 53   (9:20 am 3/13/13)

I introduced this resolution to address the conflict of interest of having one attorney (Corporation Counsel/Lincoln Ashida) have primary responsibility for simultaneously representing the Executive and the Legislative branches of the County government – and at the same time also being a member of the Mayor’s cabinet. A majority of the Council opposed having a separation of representation for the County Council, so this legislation has been forwarded to the full Council with a negative recommendation.

Commission Nominations-

Mr. Oliver “Sonny” Shimaoka of Council District 9 to the County of Hawai‘i Transportation Commission – Comm. 170 (9:15 am 3/12/13)

Other Legislation of Interest-

Report of Change Orders Authorized – Comm. 3.5 & 3.6 (1 pm 3/12/13)

There is concern about the large amount of overruns related to contracts with the County – some as high as 8 fold.  

Organic Waste Diversion 10 year contract – Reso 31 (9:20 am 3/13/13)

This is a request for authorization for a long-term contract about an important component of our solid waste program.

To view County Council & Committee TV, link here www.naleo.tv/tv-schedules/channel-52/ To follow state legislation link here www.capitol.hawaii.gov/

Margaret Wille – Council Member, District 9 – North & South Kohala, 64-1067 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kamuela, HI 96743,  PH: 808-887-2069; mwille@co.hawaii.hi.us

 

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, County Council, Hawaii, Legal, Politics, Rumors, Something New?, State Affairs, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Rocky Horror Picture Show at University of Hawaii Hilo

Posted on March 7, 2013 by Damon

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo Performing Arts Department presents a Senior Project of two performances of the rock musical and science fiction movie spoof, Rocky Horror Picture Show Shadow Cast, Saturday and Sunday, April 6 & 7, at the UH Hilo Old Gym on Kapi`olani Street at 7 p.m.

Rocky Horror Picture Show
Mason Pulgados and Nicole Cowan star as the clean-cut kids Brad Majors and Janet Weiss, who encounter car trouble and stumble upon the laboratory where Dr. Frank-N-Furter, played by Kawai Soares, is in the midst of his maniacal experiments. Also featured is Randal McEndree as Dr. Scott, Bertram Kalani Spain as The Criminologist, along with “live” shadow cast performances.

The show is produced by Denyse Woo-Ockerman, Nicole Cowan and Jin Piper, who also directs. Choreography is provided by Agriculture faculty member Norman Arancon with Musical Direction by Performing Arts music concentration major Christopher Vizzone.

Participation Kits are $10. Tickets are $5 with costume or $8 without costume. All tickets are available at the door or can be purchased in advance by contacting Denyse Woo-Ockerman at 756-5575 or email dwoo.films@gmail.com.

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Comedy, Entertainment, Hawaii, UH Hilo, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Wordless Wednesday – Video of Big Island Girl Brittni Paiva Playing With Carlos Santana Last Night

Posted on February 27, 2013 by Damon

Yesterday, Big Island girl Brittni Paiva got the surprise of her lifetime when she was asked to come up on stage and play with Carlos Santana at the Blaisdell Center in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Brittni posted the following on her Facebook page last night:

Brittni Paiva

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Big Island, Entertainment, Hawaii, Hawaiian, Hilo, Something New?, Unexplained Phenomenon, Wordless Wednesday | Tagged: , | Leave a Comment »

This Week’s Hawaii Volcano Observatory Report

Posted on February 26, 2013 by Damon

This Week’s Hawaii Volcano Observatory Report, for February 25, 2013:

Lava lake in Halemaʻumaʻu Overlook pit

Lava Lake 1

The lava lake in Halemaʻumaʻu remains poised at a relatively high level within the Overlook pit. The lake level dropped over the weekend. Though rising again now, it has not yet reached last week’s level.

Recently emplaced flows on Puʻu ʻŌʻō’s spillway

Top:  The “spillway”—Puʻu ʻŌʻō’s eastern flank—has been buried by flows fed mostly from a spatter cone on the northeastern side of the crater floor. Most of the dark-colored lava in the foreground is new lava that has resurfaced the spillway. The fume to the left is the trace of the Peace Day tube, newly covered by crater overflows, currently carrying lava to the coast. The tube carrying lava to the northeast is not obvious, but extends toward the lower right side of the photo. Bottom: Some of the recent overflows at Puʻu ʻŌʻō traveled to the southeast. This photo shows those overflows, which comprise several dark-colored channelized flows.

Spatter cone on northwest side of Puʻu ʻŌʻō’s crater floor

Top: There are currently four spatter cones on the floor of the Puʻu ʻŌʻō crater that have been the source of lava flows over the past several months. The one shown here is on the northwest side of the crater floor, close to the multiframe webcam shown on our website. The webcam, and an HVO geologist standing next to it, give a sense of scale for the spatter cone. The camera to the right of the person is the thermal camera on Puʻu ʻŌʻō shown on our website. Bottom: This is a closer look at the spatter cone on the northwest side of Puʻu ʻŌʻō’s crater floor. The photo was taken from near the site of the webcam on the north rim of Puʻu ʻŌʻō.

Spatter cone on northeast side of Puʻu ʻŌʻō’s crater floor

Top: This is another of the spatter cones on the floor of Puʻu ʻŌʻō. This one, on the northeast side of the crater floor, has long had an open top with a view of a small lava lake. Most of the overflows from Puʻu ʻŌʻō in the last few weeks have been fed from this spatter cone, successively piling up until the top of the spatter cone is now about level with the webcam on the north rim of Puʻu ʻŌʻō.  Bottom: This is a steep aerial view of the small lava pond at the top of the spatter cone on the northeastern side of the crater floor. Lava in the pond flows directly into a lava tube which is supplying the active flow northeast of Puʻu ʻŌʻō. The head of the tube, marked by fume, extends from the pond toward the left side of the photo.

Views of the Kahaualeʻa flow, northeast of Puʻu ʻŌʻō

Top: The flow traveling north from Puʻu ʻŌʻō, which we are informally calling the Kahaualeʻa flow, abuts the edge of episode 58 flows erupted during 2007–2008. The flow has also partially surrounded one of the few vestiges of greenery within the flow field—the forested top of the old Kahaualeʻa cone. Bottom: This is a view of the front of the Kahaualeʻa flow looking back toward Puʻu ʻŌʻō, where the flow originates.

Ocean entry near Kupapaʻu Point

Lava continues to enter the ocean near Kupapaʻu Point, with an entry point just inside the National Park (near left side of photo) and entry points just east of the Park boundary (near the center of the photo). Widely scattered patches of surface lava are also active inland from the ocean entry points. Puʻu ʻŌʻō is a low lump on the horizon near the top of the photo immediately to the right of the image’s center line. The plume from the lava lake in Halemaʻumaʻu is visible in the background to the left of the image’s center line.

Related articles

Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Environment, Hawaii, Hawaiian, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , | Leave a Comment »

Toga Party at University of Hawaii Stan Sheriff Center

Posted on February 24, 2013 by Damon

Toga

University of Hawaii Basketball team presents Olympic Toga Night on Thursday Evening, February 28, 2013

Filed under: Announcements, Comedy, Education, Entertainment, Hawaii, Kids, Something New?, Sports, UH, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

Interview With Bryant Scott Tadeo – One of the Top 20 American Idol Guy Contestants

Posted on February 21, 2013 by Damon

This morning I had a chance to interview Big Island resident and American Idol Contestant, Bryant Scott Tadeo, over the phone with permission from the folks that are in charge of handling press relations for the show and this is some of what he had to say to me.

Bryant Tadeo AI profile

Q: How’s it going?

A: It’s going great so far I’m really excited to still be in the competition and to be with all this amazing talent.

Q: Are you performing tonight with the men or with the next batch of men?

A: I will be part of the second batch of guys which will happen next week Thursday I believe, I think that’s the 28th of this month and so that’s when it all goes down.

Q: What’s been your most memorable experience so far of this years competition?

A: Wow that’s a tough question… I mean I have so many great memories as far as performing in front of the judges and meeting all the other contestants and bonding and getting close… but honestly the best part of this whole experience has to be getting to know all the other contestants… getting to see the different personalities and meeting so many people from all over the States and different cultures… Regardless of what happens I’m going to leave this experience with new found friends and new found knowledge and that’s the best part is meeting all these new people.

Q:  What is the biggest difference between this year and last year?

A:  This year personally I’m definitely a little more chill and confident for sure, last year I was kind of timid and didn’t know what to expect obviously and just kind of held back… that’s why I wanted to come back this year just so that I could come back and show them that I do have it and have that star power and I’m just a lot more confident and every time I just can’t wait to get up on stage (next week).

Q:  Do you have anything you like to say to folks to here on the Big Island in particular?

A:  I want to say that to everyone back home in Hilo, my friends, my family, and everyone that is watching and staying tuned in and supporting me… I appreciate it, I love you guys and I just hope that I don’t let you down and that your continued support is what is going to carry me through and I just hope I don’t disappoint you folks and I miss everyone.

I’m not gonna post the whole interview, but he spoke about last nights performances by the ladies and how he thinks that they were all really talented but knows there can only be one winner.

Let’s hope he makes it past next week and get ready to vote for a local braddah to become the NEXT AMERICAN IDOL!

Related articles

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Big Island, Entertainment, Guest Commentator, Hawaii, Hilo, National Affairs, Television, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Satellite Image Shows Active Lava Breakouts on Flow Field

Posted on February 18, 2013 by Damon

This image was captured on Wednesday, February 13, by the Advanced Land Imager sensor aboard NASA’s Earth Observing 1 satellite.

Satellite image courtesy of Hawaii Volcano Observatory

Satellite image courtesy of Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

Although this is a false-color image, the color map has been chosen to mimic what the human eye would expect to see. Bright red pixels depict areas of very high temperatures, and show active or very recently active lava flows. The image shows three general areas of active breakouts.

  • First, flows have been active for several weeks northeast of Puʻu ʻŌʻō, and have reached about 2 km (1.2 miles) from the Puʻu ʻŌʻō crater rim.
  • Second, breakouts have been active above the pali, about 5 km (3.1 miles) southeast of Puʻu ʻŌʻō.
  • Third, several scattered breakouts have been active on the coastal plain, with several patches very close to the shoreline above the active ocean entry. Satellite images such as this help fill in observational gaps between field visits.

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Big Island, Environment, Hawaii, Hawaiian, Puna, Something New?, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

New Children’s Book – “The Mystery of Rat Lungworm Disease”

Posted on February 17, 2013 by Damon

A University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo College of Pharmacy researcher has developed a fun-filled activity book to teach children about a serious health topic associated with cleaning and cooking vegetables in the tropical Hawaiian environment.

Dr. Susan Jarvi, associate professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, is distributing a book and poster about Rat Lungworm Disease (Angiostrongylus cantonensis) to elementary school children in Hilo. But she wants everyone in Hawaiʻi to know more about the rare parasitic infection that can cause paralysis, coma or death.

“There’s a real need for better education of the public and research that no one else is doing if we want to decrease risk of infection,” said Jarvi, who has been conducting research on ways to detect the virus in the blood as well as testing possible vaccines and evaluating vegetable washes that may be the most effective in killing the A. cantonensis larvae that causes the damage.

The disease-causing organism reproduces in rats and is transferred to slugs and snails. Eating raw snails and slugs, intentionally or unintentionally, infects people, and the larvae can hide in salads or other uncooked vegetables. Symptoms that appear at the onset of the infection can appear similar to other infections and make it difficult to diagnose.

“The activity book project is just a start of our efforts to reduce rat lungworm infection on the Island of Hawaiʻi through educational and research approaches,” Jarvi said. “This year we are concentrating on integrating Rat Lungworm Disease education into the Department of Education (DOE) curriculum in second grade, but on a larger scale we plan to integrate it into the curriculum in multiple grades.”

The activity book, designed and illustrated by local artist Hopper Sheldon of Hopper’s Art, is called “The Mystery of Rat Lungworm Disease.” It contains 22 pages of information, coloring, puzzles and clues that are designed to help elementary-age children learn what to look for in their gardens and vegetables and what to do if they spot something suspicious on their food.

Hoppers VW Van

Hopper Sheldon’s VW Van

Hoping to take the activity to book to as many second-grade classrooms as possible, Jarvi is continually contacting teachers on other islands and searching for feedback.

For further information, contact Jarvi at (808) 933-2954 or jarvi@hawaii.edu.

Filed under: Agriculture, Announcements, Big Island, Education, Environment, Food & Drink, Hawaii, Health, Hilo, Kids, Sustainable Living, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

Kamehameha Hawaiʻi Harlem Shake

Posted on February 15, 2013 by Damon

Kamehameha Hawaiʻi Harlem Shake

Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Comedy, Education, Entertainment, Hawaiian, Kids, National Affairs, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

Natural Phenomena of Koa Defoliation on the Big Island Due to Population Explosion of Native Moth

Posted on February 15, 2013 by Damon

Public Assistance Needed in Reporting of Continued Defoliation

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) has documented extensive defoliation of large sections of mature koa forest on Hawaii Island, which scientists believe is the result of a natural but sudden proliferation of a native moth. Koa trees located in the Hilo and Hamakua regions, between the elevations of 2000 and 4000 feet, appear to be impacted at this time.

Hawaii Island Koa Defoliation

Hawaii Island Koa Defoliation

“The department has determined that this defoliation event is the direct result of feeding by moth native to Hawaii, the koa looper. Fortunately, past occurrences of these outbreaks show us that koa forests can recover,” said William J. Aila, Jr., DLNR chairperson. “We are thankful that researchers from the University of Hawaii, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Geological Survey, and Hawaii Agricultural Research Center are assisting DLNR to monitor this rare natural phenomenon.”

Although the koa looper (Scotorythra paludicola) is a native moth commonly found in koa forests, caterpillars of this species have historically been associated with mass koa forest defoliation. Oral accounts indicate that such events were occurring before the first written documented outbreak in 1892. To date, researchers have not yet discovered what circumstances trigger the occasional moth population explosions.

Scotorythra Paludicola Adult

Scotorythra Paludicola Adult

The area currently impacted is estimated to span over 24,500 acres, and is the largest koa defoliation in written history. Based on data from previous outbreaks, it is possible that the koa looper outbreak will spread to other areas of Hawaii Island, although the exact path is unpredictable.

Given that this is a natural process caused by a native moth species, the DLNR will focus its efforts on documenting and monitoring the outbreak.

“Mapping the boundaries of this infestation will tell us what areas are affected right now, and provide a way for us to measure movement of the moths into new forest areas,” said Roger Imoto, DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife Administrator. “We want to assure the public that this is a natural phenomenon, and DLNR and its partners are actively monitoring. The public can help us by calling DOFAW if new areas are observed.”

Land managers and researchers have an opportunity to collect data on the moths, the koa, and the environmental conditions — the combination of which may help answer some long-standing questions about these events.

“We are prioritizing monitoring efforts because it is important to understand how this outbreak might affect our forests and koa forestry on Hawaii Island,” Imoto said. “Despite the rapid and severe visual impact of defoliation caused by the caterpillars, it should be noted that koa can and do recover after such outbreaks.”

Monitoring conducted following outbreaks on Maui in 2004 and 2009 showed mortality of up to 35 percent in unhealthy forests; however, koa trees in healthy forests fared better, recovering at a rate of nearly 100 percent.

Scotorythra Paludicola Caterpillar

Scotorythra Paludicola Caterpillar

Members of the public are encouraged to report koa defoliation and/or increased caterpillar or moth abundance to the DLNR if it is observed outside of the Hilo and Hamakua region.

Please call (808) 587-0166 with information on the nearest street address, date of sighting, and a description of the defoliation. The public is encouraged to send photos with location information to DLNR@hawaii.gov.

For more information on the koa looper, visit: www.hawaii.gov/dlnr/dofaw

(directly at Koa Moth Fact Sheet )

Filed under: Agriculture, Announcements, Big Island, Environment, Hawaii, Hawaiian, Something New?, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , , , | 1 Comment »

FBI Swarms My Neighbors House – Removes Boxes From House

Posted on February 13, 2013 by Damon

The FBI swarmed in on my neighbors house this morning located in Pahoa, Hawaii.

FBI

I first noticed something was going on when my dogs were barking loudly and I looked out my window and saw FBI Agents with large guns and bullet proof vests surrounding the house.  After the house was secured… they took off most of their clothes stating that they were FBI Agents.

FBI

One of the FBI Agents had a “Battering Ram” and I knew that something was about to go down so I grabbed my iPhone and started to take pictures.

FBI

I called Hawaii News Now Cameraman Darryl Lee and told him what was going on and that he might want to come check things out.

FBI

I asked Sergeant Scott Amaral what the heck was going on and he said he wasn’t able to comment on the matter, however, he assisted me in getting one of the FBI Agents to come out and talk with me for a few minutes.

FBI

They were inside the house for nearly two hours talking to the occupants of the house and then they started removing some boxes with what looked like some files in them.

FBI

I asked the FBI Agent that was sent out to talk to me about what was going on and he said he was not authorized to speak on the matter and gave me a number to the FBI’s media relations on Oahu.  I’ve tried calling the number several times and have left a message asking them to get back to me on the matter.

FBI

They were at the house for nearly two and a half hours before they packed up their stuff and left.  No arrests were made that I could tell of and only some property removed from the house.

FBI

It’s still a mystery to me as to why they were there… but I expect to find out soon enough since I gave an interview to Hawaii News Now.

Filed under: Big Island, Hawaii, Legal, Pahoa, Rumors, Security, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: , , | 1 Comment »

« Previous Page — Next Page »
Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 644 other followers