October 23, 2015

Homeowners Training with DOH

The Department of Health (DOH) Wastewater Branch and Safe Drinking Water Branch - Groundwater Protection Program are providing FREE onsite disposal system training throughout the State of Hawaii.

If you are a property owner and have a septic system, you are cordially invited to attend the "Onsite Disposal Systems Training for Homeowners." By attending this training, you will learn how to determine if you have a septic system, how to locate your septic system, and provide proper operation and maintenance of your septic system. If you are interested in attending, please register; each class is limited to 50 enrollees. Registration information is provided on the following website

Register by E-mail, Mail, Fax or by Telephone
• E-mail at wwb@doh.hawaii.gov
• Mail to: 919 Ala Moana Blvd, Room 308, Honolulu, Hi, 96814
• Fax at (808) 586-4300
• Telephone at (808) 586-4294

Hilo's training is on October 29, 2015, from 5pm - 8pm at the Aupuni Center, Suite1, 101 Pauahi Street. Should you have questions, please contact the Wastewater Branch at (808) 586-4294.


September 10, 2015

Free Legislative Workshop in Hilo

Each year the State's Public Access Room (PAR) schedules a series of workshops on the neighbor islands to talk to residents about our Legislature and the legislative process. These workshops are free of charge and last one hour to an hour and a half in length. They cover topics such as understanding the legislative process, making sense of the legislative calendar and legislative deadlines, how to track bills and submit testimony, and an overview of the Capitol website.

Hilo's workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, October 21st at 6:30 p.m. on the UH- Hilo campus, Ho'oulu Terrace (UCB 127) 200 W. Kawili Street.

PAR's contact information:
Website: http://lrbhawaii.org
Toll Free from Hawaii Island 974-4000, ext. 7-0478
TTY: 808/587-0749


August 18, 2015

Jury Questionnaires Mailed for 2016

Every August, the Hawaii State Judiciary mails juror questionnaires to individuals who have a Hawaii state driver's license OR are registered to vote in the State of Hawaii. Beginning August 10, 2015, approximately 235,000 total juror questionnaires will be mailed; 70,000 will go to addresses on the Big Island. The questionnaires are used to help select potential jurors who may be eligible to serve in 2016. Those who receive a questionnaire have 10 days to complete and return the questionnaire to the Jury Pool Office. Anyone who fails to respond may be penalized.


August 11, 2015

DLNR Public Meeting Scheduled for Hilo

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is seeking public input on its updated Hawai'i State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP), which lays out the strategy and plans of DLNR and its partners to address the conservation needs of Hawai'i's native wildlife over the next 10 years. The plan is being updated to continue the coordinated and comprehensive planning, and implementation of conservation strategies and actions to manage and restore native wildlife.

The draft of the 2015 State Wildlife Action Plan is now available for review on the DLNR website, and can be viewed here

A public meeting to provide information about the plan, and gather input from interested parties will be held:
Wed., August 19 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
DLNR Division of Forestry Hawaii Branch office conference room 19 E. Kawili Street

Written comments on the draft SWAP may be submitted to:
Division of Forestry and Wildlife
1151 Punchbowl St., Rm. 325
Honolulu, HI 96813

Email comments may be submitted to: John.P.Vetter@hawaii.gov
The deadline for public comments to be submitted is August 31, 2015.


August 10, 2015

FEMA Meeting in Hilo

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is nearing the end of a multi-year effort to update and modernize the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for Hawai'i County. The updated maps will help community officials and local residents better identify known flood risks and when finalized, will be used for flood insurance, land use and development decisions.

An informational meeting is planned for residents and property owners to review the preliminary FIRMs. Representatives from the State of Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Hawaii County and FEMA will be on hand to answer questions.

Monday. August 17, 2015
Aupuni Center- 101 Pauahi Street, Hilo
Doors open 4:30 pm - 8:00 pm, presentation 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm


August 4, 2015

State DOH Plans Public Meeting in Hilo

The Department of Health (DOH) is in the process of amending Hawaii Administrative Rules, Title 11, Chapter 62, Wastewater Systems (HAR 11-62).

DOH is proposing amendments to HAR 11-62 that would prohibit the construction of new cesspools in order to protect public health and preserve natural resources. DOH is not proposing to require upgrades of existing cesspools in these rules. DOH is also proposing amendments needed to implement Act 120, which involves providing a temporary income tax credit for the cost of upgrade or converting a qualified cesspool to a septic tank system or an aerobic treatment unit system, or connecting to a sewer system. A taxpayer may apply for a tax credit of up to $10,000 for each qualified cesspool.

DOH will be holding a public meeting to discuss the proposed changes for HAR 11-62 at the following location: Thursday, Aug. 13, at 5 p.m., Hawaii District Health Office, Conference Room, 1582 Kamehameha Ave., Hilo. For more information on HAR 11-62 amendments, please contact the Wastewater Branch at 586-4294 (Oahu).


March 2, 2015

PUBLIC WORKSHOPS SCHEDULED FOR INPUT ON STATEWIDE WATER RESOURCE PROTECTION PLAN

The Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) is in the process of updating the statewide Water Resource Protection Plan (WRPP) and is seeking the community's input on water resource issues of importance. The purpose of the Water Resource Protection Plan is to establish policies and identify actions needed to ensure the long-term protection and sustainability of Hawaii's precious and limited ground and surface water resources. Commission staff will be holding workshops statewide so people on each island may participate. All workshops are from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and will include a short slideshow about the Water Resource Protection Plan. This will be followed by smaller group discussions to talk in more detail about specific water resource issues in each community. Hilo's meeting will be on March 30 at Aupuni Center, 101 Pauahi St. Suite 1.


February 25, 2015

Space Foundation Professional Development Scholarship for Hawaiian Educators

Educators of Hawaiian or part-Hawaiian ancestry, or who work with PreK-12 students of Hawaiian or part-Hawaiian ancestry, are eligible to apply now for the Lucy Enos Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship enables the recipient to travel to Colorado during the summer of 2015 and attend the Space Foundation's week-long professional development course. The scholarship covers all travel and lodging, plus tuition, fees and expenses. Educators in all disciplines, PreK-20, may apply.

Apply for the scholarship by submitting a letter, not exceeding two pages, detailing the motivation for applying and interest in integrating space themes into the classroom. The application letter must be endorsed with a letter of support by a principal or other supervisor.
Send application and letter of support by March 2, 2015, to:
Lucy Enos Memorial Scholarship
Space Foundation
4425 Arrowswest Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80907

The 2015 course will be "Lunar/Mars Exploration and Base Construction," to be held July 20-24, at the Space Foundation Discovery Center in Colorado Springs, Colo. This course will help educators teach science concepts and standards in one exciting classroom project. Participants will learn what it would take to establish and maintain a human presence on our Moon or Mars. Advanced life support concepts, such as growing food, oxygen and energy production, waste removal and recycling and exploration of the surface will be discussed. For the final project, participants will design and build a model of a theoretically functioning Lunar or Mars base that will be technically sustainable and house astronauts for exploration of the Lunar or Martian surface.

Learn more about Space Foundation education programs and Space Across the Curriculum for teachers at Space Foundation


December 10, 2014

FREE LEGISLATIVE PROCESS WORKSHOP

A free workshop to help citizens learn to be effective as they participate in Hawaii's lawmaking process will be offered at UH-Hilo, by the Public Access Room (PAR). All are welcome, and no registration or prior experience is required. Additional information may be found on PAR's website, http://lrbhawaii.org/par/workshp.html, or by calling 808/587-0478 (toll free from Hawaii Island = 974-4000, x 7-0478). Additional workshops may be arranged, as time permits.

Friday December 19 6:00 p.m. UH Hilo Ho'oulu Terrace, UCB Room 127

The PAR workshop lasts between an hour to one-and-a-half hours in length, and are designed to be useful to both newcomers and veterans of the legislative process. Covered topics will include understanding the legislative process, delivering effective testimony, making sense of the calendar and deadlines, and an overview of the Legislature’s website. Please contact PAR directly to make arrangements if special assistance is needed.


November 24, 2014

UH-Hilo Basketball Appreciation Days Scheduled

UHH Vulcans Women's and Men's Basketball will have two Appreciation Days in December. Saturday, Dec. 13 will be Armed Forces & Veterans Appreciation Day. Active/retired military and their spouses/partners should come in uniform or bring identification for free admission. Tailgate starts at 10:30 a.m.; women's basketball game starts at 12 p.m., men's game at 2:30 p.m. There will be keiki games, classic cars, hula performances, and more. Saturday, Dec. 20 will be Health Care Professionals Appreciation Day. HeaIth Care staff & families should bring I.D. for free admission. Women's basketball game starts at 4 p.m., men's game at 7:30 p.m. There will be ice shave, free photos with Santa, halftime performances, and more.


October 17, 2014

Ka Makaku (Art) - Na Pua Noeau

October 25 is Super Enrichment Saturday by Na Pua Noeau. Offered to students in grades 6-12, this program will focus on art, creativity and imagination to produce a culturally 2D/3D graphic related to the Malama Honua Worldwide Voyage. The event will be from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm at Hawaii Community College. It is free, but pre-registration is required by October 21, 2014. Please contact Na Pua Noeau at phone 974-7678 for more details.


September 26, 2014

Free Workforce Training

Hawaii Community College and the State of Hawaii Workforce Development Division offers free individualized Career Achievement Network (iCAN) workshops in Hilo. Designed for anyone interested in improving their reading, writing, math and workplace skills, the iCAN workshops are a way for employees and job seekers to improve their employability qualities. Open to those 18 and over at no charge, whether or not they have a high school diploma, these self-paced iCAN workshops prepare students for the workforce as they pursue a National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC).

Classes are continuously held in Hilo, Pahala and Waimea with ongoing enrollment in each program. Please call 808-934-2700 or email csborja@hawaii.edu for iCAN program information.


August 20, 2014

Recovering from Hurricane Iselle

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has disaster assistance programs available to agricultural stakeholders who were negatively impacted by Hurricane Iselle.

Some programs include:

Tree Assistance Program (TAP) is available for qualifying fruit orchardists of papaya, banana and tropical fruits. The program provides cost share to clean up and replant.

Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) can assist farmers and ranchers with the clean-up of field damage to farms and ranches including debris removal and fence replacement. This program must be authorized by Farm Service Agency's (FSA) National Office and based upon assessed impacts.

Farm Loan Programs offer a range of low-interest loans to assist producers. Additionally, producers with existing loans with FSA should contact their loan officer if they anticipate having problems making their regular payments, as FSA may be able to modify the payment schedule or meet other needs.

For more information about FSA's programs including what you need to do in advance should another disaster event occur, visit www.fsa.usda.gov/hi or for a more comprehensive look at USDA disaster assistance visit: www.usda.gov/disaster

USDA's Rural Development (RD) offers housing, water and wastewater grant/loan/programs that may assist rural communities impacted by emergency or disaster conditions.

For more information, please contact Diane L. Ley, FSA Executive Director at (808) 541-2600 ext. 123, and/or Chris Kanazawa, RD Executive Director at (808) 345-5574. www.usda.gov/disaster


July 29, 2014

2015 Jury Pool

Beginning August 4, 2014, the Hawaii State Judiciary will mail questionnaires to help select potential jurors who may be eligible to serve in 2015. The Judiciary mails these questionnaires to individuals who have a Hawaii state driver's license and are registered to vote in the State of Hawaii. This year, approximately 70,000 questionnaires will be sent in the Big Island. If you receive a questionnaire, you have ten days to complete and return it to the Jury Pool Office. To be eligible to serve as a juror, you must be at least 18 years old, a citizen of the United States, a resident of Hawaii, and able to read and understand English.


July 23, 2014

Inaugural PRISM competition in Hilo

I attended the kickoff for the first ever PISCES Robotic International Space Mining (PRISM) competition on July 21st at Hilo's Bayfront.

Kahu Kimo Pihana, a member of the PISCES Cultural Advisory Committee, conducted a traditional Native Hawaiian blessing and pule (prayer). During an exhibition, the robotics teams from the University of Alabama, University of Alaska, Fairbanks, Iowa State University of Science & Technology, University of New Hampshire, and West Virginia University met members of our local community, and showed the public their high-tech machines in action. Please see my photo stream for pictures; the full article is available here:

View full article


July 23, 2014

Hilo Briefing by the House Health Committee

This meeting is part of a series of planned informational briefings and community-based public hearings by the House Health Committee regarding the Hawai'i Health Systems Corporation (HHSC), its Regional Boards, and their plans to streamline operations and address anticipated budget shortfalls.

DATE: Monday, July 28, 2014
TIME: 4:30 PM
PLACE: UH- Hilo, University Classroom Building #127 200 W. Kawili Street
For all pertinent information, please view the public hearing notice:
View Notice


July 15, 2014

Hawaii Community College Open House

HCC will host an Open House on Tuesday, July 22nd from 5-7 p.m. at its Manono Street campus in Building 379, room 1. This free event will feature information on accelerated class that earn college credit and certificates, as well as how to earn college credit for work or military experience. For more information call 934-2689 or email myfuture@hawaii.edu


July 9, 2014

COMCAST-Time Warner Cable Merger

The State Dept. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA) is holding public hearings involving the merger of Time Warner Cable and Comcast Corp. Hilo's meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 16, 2014 at 4:30 p.m. in the Aupuni Center Conference Room at 101 Pauahi Street in Hilo. The public is encouraged to provide comments on the proposed transfer of control, as well as any cable-related issue(s). View full article


June 20, 2014

U.S. Department of the Interior Considers Procedures to Reestablish a Government-to-Government Relationship with the Native Hawaiian Community

In response to requests from the Native Hawaiian community, Hawaii's congressional delegation and state leaders, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced today a first step to consider reestablishing a government-to-government relationship between the United States and the Native Hawaiian community.

The purpose of such a relationship would be to more effectively implement the special political and trust relationship that currently exists between the Federal government and the Native Hawaiian community.

Over many decades, Congress has enacted more than 150 statutes that specifically recognize and implement this trust relationship with the Native Hawaiian community. The Native Hawaiian community, however, has not had a formal governing entity since the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1893.

The Department will be engaging in an extensive series of public meetings throughout the State of Hawaii to solicit comments and feedback on whether and how the process of reestablishing a government-to-government relationship should move forward. These meetings will be held in Hawaii and the continental United States.

Public Meetings on Hawaii Island

Wednesday, July 2 -- Hilo - 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Keaukaha Elementary School

Thursday, July 3 -- Waimea - 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Waimea Community Center

Thursday, July 3 -- Kona - 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Kealakehe High School

The Department welcomes comments from leaders and members of the Native Hawaiian community and federally recognized Indian tribes, as well as the State of Hawaii, its agencies, other state agencies, and the general public. Attendance at the above-listed consultation meetings is not required for public comment.

In addition to the public meetings, comments can be submitted online through the Federal eRulemaking Portal: www.Regulations.govbeginning later this week, or via U.S. mail, courier, or hand delivery to: Office of the Secretary, Department of the Interior, Room 7329, 1849 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20240 (please use Regulation Identifier Number 1090-AB05 in your message).


June 4, 2014

HCC Class of 2014

A two hour video production titled "2014 HCC Spr Commencement" will air several times on cable TV channel 54 (and/or 97-3) on the Big Island, and also streamed at www.naleo.tv on the Internet. This production features the 2014 Hawaii Community College (HCC) Spring Commencement exercises. This is the remaining schedule on channel 54:

Tuesday, June 3: 5:30 pm
Thursday, June 5: 3:00 pm
Saturday, June 7: 8:00 pm
Sunday, June 8: 9:00 am



April 28, 2014

Hilo Meeting for Statewide Transportation Program (STIP)

The State Department of Transportation (DOT) will hold a meeting in Hilo to discuss the draft of the STIP for fiscal years 2015-2018. The STIP is a plan that identifies state and county transportation to be funded partially with Federal Highway & Transit funds. The Hilo community is encouraged to use this opportunity to participate in the plan's development.
When: Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Time: 6 p.m.
Place: Hilo State Office Building, conference rooms A, B & C; 75 Aupuni Street


April 28, 2014

Funds Released for Hilo Airport

As part of the Hawaii Airports Modernization Program, funding was recently released to transform the state's airports into first-rate facilities, and to invest Hawaii's economy and jobs. Hilo International Airport received money that will improve its safety and quality, and also revitalize the construction industry and creating local jobs in the process. $3,300,000 will be used for a new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) Facility. The current one does not meet the requirements set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The current ARFF building will still be used for storage purposes once the new facility is completed.


April 4, 2014

Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month

The Children's Justice Center (CJC) of East Hawaii will display pinwheels in recognition of Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month. The pinwheels serve as a reminder that child abuse and neglect is happening in our community and represents hope, healing and justice for children.
Date: Wed., April 9th
Time: 10 a.m.
Place: 1290 Kinoole Street, Hilo


March 31, 2014

Na Pua Noeau 2014 Summer Youth Program- Hilo

For students currently in kindergarten to grade 5, Na Pua Noeau will have it Hoomalamalama 2014 entitled "The Great Adventures of the Coral Reef." The program runs from June 16- July 3 and classes will include reef walks, storytelling, reef ecosystems, mele and art. Exciting learning opportunities in Hawaiian culture, language, values, and history will be integrated into all daily activities along with physical education, art and science. Application packets must be submitted as soon as possible and by May 1, 2014. Packets are available at Na Pua Noeau, 200 West Kawili Street or at Link


March 27, 2014

2014 SBA Award Winners

On March 24th, the House honored the 2014 U.S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) State of Hawaii award winners. As EDB Committee Chair, I was responsible for the floor presentation. Congratulations to: DAVID ERDMAN- the 2014 Small Business Person of the Year winner, JORMA WINKLER- the 2014 Small Business Exporter of the Year Award winner, JINGBO CHANG and WENDY CHANG- the 2014 Entrepreneurial Success Award winners, KATHRYN CUSTER- the 2014 Small Business Administration Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award winner, MICHAEL NOBRIGA- the 2014 Small Business Administration Family-Owned Business of the Year Award winner, CYNTHIA YAMASAKI- the 2014 Women in Business Champion of the Year Award winner, RAYMOND JARDINE, JR.- the 2014 Veteran Small Business Champion of the Year Award winner, JONI REDICK-YUNDT- the 2014 Minority Small Business Champion of the Year Award winner, NAOMI MASUNO- the 2014 Financial Services Champion of the Year Award winner, and TERRINA WONG- the 2014 Home-Based Business Champion of the Year Award winner.


March 14, 2014

DOT Meeting Scheduled for Hilo

The state Department of Transportation (DOT) has developed the draft for the Statewide and Regional Federal-Aid Highways 2035 Transportation plans which includes the District of Hawaii. This is Hawaii's first statewide, long-range multimodal land transportation plan that will support each district as they change in population, development and travel needs.

As part of the assessment process, the DOT is going to hold a second series of public meetings to get feedback from the public. Hilo's meeting will be on Thursday, March 20, 2014, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Aunty Sally's Luau Hale- 799 Piilani Street. DOT representatives will be present to address community concerns and to answer questions. For more information, please visit www.hawaiilongrangeplan.com or call the DOT's Public Affairs Office at 808-587-2160.


February 7, 2014

Legislators' Conversation

A one hour video production called "Hui Ka Ua - 3 Legislators' Conversation" will air several times on cable TV channels 54 and/or 97-3 (island-wide for the island of Hawai'i) and streamed island-wide, statewide, and worldwide on the Internet through this website: www.naleo.tv

This program covers a briefing held at the YMCA in Hilo prior to the 2014 Legislative session. I joined two other state Representatives to discuss issues related to UH-Hilo and Hawaii Community College. It was organized by Hui Ka Ua, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting both schools. Na Leo provided the following airing schedule for cable TV channel 54:
Tuesday, February 11: 11:00 am
Thursday, February 13: 6:00 pm
Saturday, February 15: 10:30 am
It will also soon be available for playback at any time on Na Leo's website in the Video On Demand section.


January 14, 2014

Hawai'i Community College Day

Hawaii Community College is holding its first-ever "Hawai'i Community College Day" on Wednesday, Feb. 26. Hawaii CC is dedicated to creating an educated workforce for Hawaii Island businesses and organizations. There will be campus tours plus demonstrations, exhibits and displays that will offer a glimpse at the great things happening at the college. The event takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information on HawCC Day, call (808) 934-2800.


December 20, 2013

2014 Court Interpreter Workshops

The Judiciary through its Office on Equality and Access to the Courts (OEAC) announced its 2014 court interpreter workshops. This is a once-a-year opportunity for individuals who speak both English and another language(s). It is the first step required to becoming a qualified court interpreter in the Hawaii State Courts. All interested interpreters are encouraged to apply.

Court Interpreters are independent contractors - not state employees - and earn $25 - $55 per hour at a minimum base of 2 hours a day.

The Court Interpreter Certification Program Application, Basic Orientation Workshop registration form and $95.00 registration fee must be received in the OEAC at 426 Queen Street #B–17, Honolulu, HI 96813, no later than 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 30, 2014. Early registration fee of $75 will apply if received on or before 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2014.

If you have any questions about the Certification Program or require informational packets, please contact:
Office on Equality and Access to the Courts
426 Queen St #B-17
Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 539-4860
Email: oeac@courts.hawaii.gov
Website: www.courts.state.hi.us/courtinterpreting



December 4, 2013

"WE THE POWERFUL!" FREE WORKSHOPS

Between December 12 and December 18, the State's Public Access Room (PAR) will conduct free neighborhood workshops entitled, "We the Powerful!" These meetings are designed to demystify the State lawmaking process, and will demonstrate ways that people can speak out at the legislature without ever having to leave the Big Island. All are welcome. No registration or prior experience is required.

PAR's workshops are designed to be useful to both newcomers and veterans of the legislative process. Covered topics will include an overview of the Legislature's website, understanding the legislative process, delivering effective testimony, and making sense of the calendar and deadlines. Renewed inspiration to be part of the solution will be the overriding theme.
The schedule of PAR's December Hawaii Island presentations is as follows:

Thursday, December 12 6:00 p.m. Pahala Plantation Manager's House (at the corner of Maile & Pikake)
Friday, December 13 6:00 p.m. UH Hilo Ho'oulu Terrace, UCB Room 127
Saturday, December 14 12:00 noon Kailua-Kona Civic Center's Liquor Control Conference Room
Monday, December 16 6:00 p.m. Pahoa Community Center
Tuesday, December 17 6:00 p.m. Waimea Parker Library Conference Room
Wednesday, December 18 6:00 p.m. Laupahoehoe Library Conference Room

For additional information, or to arrange for individual tutorials or group workshops, residents are invited to contact the Public Access Room toll free from the Big Island at 974-4000 ext.70478 or via email at par@capitol.hawaii.gov. Please contact PAR directly to make arrangements if special assistance or services such as sign language interpreters are needed.


November 14, 2013

Board of Education To Meet in Hilo

The State BOE will hold a Hilo-Waiakea Complex community meeting on Thursday, November 21, 2013 from 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at Waiakea Intermediate School Cafeteria located at 200 W. Puainako Street. Topics for discussion include public education, the community's role in supporting student achievement, and the public library system.


October 21, 2013

Local Vendor Food Show

67 local companies participated in the Annual American Logistics Association Hawaii Conference and Food Show. This event connects buyers from the military's Commissary and Exchanges with local items from local companies here in Hawaii. Today there are over 200 small local businesses who do business with the local military commissaries and exchanges, and some of those companies have gone worldwide. This year's Local Vendor Food Show was on October 16th at the Hawaii Prince Hotel. It was a privilege to participate in the Opening Ceremonies along with the senior managers from the Navy Exchange Hawaii, AAFES Hawaii, MCCS Hawaii and the Defense Commissary Agency. Event pictures are included in my photostream.


September 30, 2013

Student Poster Contest Begins

The East Hawaii unit of the Coalition for Tobacco-Free Hawaii is sponsoring a student poster contest to remind everyone of Hawaii County's law which prohibits smoking in all motor vehicles with children 17 years old and younger. For more information, please contact Mrs. Ancheta at 936-2686, or see this article: View full article


September 10, 2013

2013 Hawaii Aerospace Summit

The 2013 Hawaii Aerospace Summit is scheduled for October 8th at the State Capitol. During this event, state officials will meet with local aerospace companies, academia and the military to discuss aviation and space research in the state. One goal is to formulate a vision of Hawaii's aerospace industry that will aid in diversifying the State's economy. There are several featured guests including George Abbey, former NASA Johnson Space Center Director.

The Aerospace Summit will be free and open to the public, but registration is required. For additional information and to register, please go to View full article


August 1, 2013

Hilo Harbor Improvements

Over $44 million was released by the Governor on July 25th for a Pier 4 Interisland Cargo Terminal at Hilo Harbor. This funding is for construction that includes a new wharf, utilities, mooring system, and associated site work. This construction will complete the new interisland barge terminal facility. Other projects throughout the State also received funding; the press release is available here: View full article


July 26, 2013

Public Meeting with DOT in Hilo

The State Department of Transportation (DOT) informed me that it will hold a public informational meeting on Thursday, August 8 regarding the Puainako Street widening- Komohana Street to Kilauea Avenue. It will take place at Waiakea Intermediate's cafeteria, and the Open House portions starts at 5:15 p.m. followed by the formal presentation at 6 p.m. DOT officials will update the community on the status of the project and provide an overview of its progress since the first public meeting. Please see page 27 of this publication: View full article


July 26, 2013

Puainako Street Extension Funding Released

$300,000 is now available for the Puainako Street Extension project from Komohana Street to the intersection f Kaumana Drive and Country Club Road. Please see the news release here: View full article


July 2, 2013

Pacific Astronomy & Engineering Education Summit in Hilo

To foster global collaboration in science, engineering and education, a four day international education summit will start on July 23rd at various locations in Hilo. The Pacific Astronomy & Engineering Education Summit will feature high school students from India, China, Japan, Canada and Hawaii Island. Participating high schools include Connections Public Charter School (Hilo), Hilo High School, Honokaa High School, Kamehameha School (Keaau), Ritsumeikan High School (Kyoto, Japan), Senri High School (Osaka, Japan), Shawnigan Lake School (British Colombia, Canada), The Shri Ram School (Aravali, India), The High School Affiliated with BeiHang University (Beijing, China) and Waiakea High School (Hilo).


June 21, 2013

East Hawaii Bar Association Luncheon

40 attorneys were honored at a luncheon on June 14th for volunteering at the Judiciary's Self Help Center at Hale Kaulike (Third Circuit) in Hilo. It was a privilege to join Chief Justice Recktenwald in recognizing these individuals' service. For more pictures, please see my photo stream. For information on the state network of Self Help Centers please access: View full article


July 1, 2013

DOE Releases Income Eligibility Guidelines for Free and Reduced-Price Meals

On June 24th, the Hawaii State Department of Education (DOE) announced its policy for free and reduced-price meals served under the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. Copies of the policy are available at public schools. Application forms are being sent to all homes with a letter to parents or guardians. To apply for free or reduced-price meals, households should fill out one application and return it to the school where the child is enrolled or complete an online application via ezmealapp.com. Applications for the 2013-2014 school year will be accepted beginning July 1, 2013. Applications may be submitted at any time during the school year. In certain cases, foster children are also eligible for school meal benefits. For more information please call the DOE office on Oahu at 586-3232.


May 30, 2013

St. Joseph Class of 2013

It was an honor to speak to the graduating Seniors of St. Joseph High School on Sunday, May 26th. For a small institution, the families, staff and teachers showed enormous heart while celebrating this milestone with the students. Best wishes to the graduates!


May 30, 2013

Waiakea Elem. School Hoike

The Waiakea Elementary student body and their families, staff and teachers gathered on May 17th at Hilo's Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium for its annual Hoike. Congratulations to the event planners and especially all the students for excellent performances!


April 3, 2013

Merrie Monarch on the UHH Campus Center Plaza

To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Merrie Monarch Festival, three nights of the hula competition will be shown on a large screen on the UHH Campus Center Plaza. There will also be food booths by Campus Clubs. Mahalo to event sponsors UHHSA and the Office of the Chancellor.


March 25, 2013

Honoring the 2013 SBA Award Winners

On March 14, 2013 the House of Representatives honored the State winners of the Small Business Administration's (SBA) annual awards in ten categories. As Chair of the House Economic Development and Business Committee, I sponsored the Resolution and corresponding Floor Presentation.

Hilo's Allan Ikawa is this year's SBA Entrepreneurial Success of the Year winner. Ikawa first opened Big Island Candies in 1977 in Hilo, Hawaii. Ikawa created the chocolate-dipped macadamia nut shortbread, and today it is an iconic desert in the retail world. Ikawa was nominated for this award by Roberta Chu and Art Taniguchi of Bank of Hawaii in Hilo.

The House of Representatives also recognized these Award winners: Small Business Person of the Year: David Yogi and James Kwong of Yogi Kwong Engineers, LLC; Small Business Exporter of the Year: Jim Freeman, Ralph Shelbourne, and Benjamin Candari of FSC Architects; Family-Owned Business of the Year: Sterling Kaya of the Hana Pa'a Fishing Company; Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Billy Giang of SG Group Incorporated; Financial Services Champion of the Year: Robert S. Kawahara of Kawahara + CO.; Women in Business Champion of the Year: Naomi Hazelton-Giambrone; Veteran Small Business Champion of the Year: Leslie Wilkins; Home-Based Business Champion of the year: Craig Swift; Minority Small Business Champion of the Year: Jose Villa of Latin Business Hawaii.


March 4, 2013

2013 Adopt-A-Beehive Event in Panaewa

Mahalo to Dr. Lorna Tsutsumi for inviting me to this February 23rd event at UH Hilo's Farm Laboratory in Panaewa. Dr. Tsutsumi and local celebrity Chef Alan Wong are the coordinators of the Adopt-A-Beehive program to increase awareness of the critical plight of honey bees and their vital role in sustainable agriculture. Please see my photo gallery for pictures from this fun event.


March 4, 2013

Funding for Hilo Harbor Improvements

Funding totaling over $7 million was released by the Governor for improvements at Hilo Harbor, near Kumau Street. The press release is available for viewing here:View full article


February 26, 2013

House Bill 417- Addressing Physician Shortages on Hawaii Island

On February 21, the House Finance Committee heard HB417, which would fund the HHSC Primary Care Training Program at Hilo Medical Center. Several Hilo residents came to the State Capitol to personally testify before the Committee including Lori Rogers and Julie Tulang of the Hilo Medical Center Foundation, and Dr. Kristine McCoy. HB417 passed out of the Finance Committee and continues to journey through the required legislative process.


February 12, 2013

House Bill 751- The Daniel K. Inouye Legacy Highway

On Wednesday, February 13th, the House Transportation Committee will hold a public hearing on HB751, which would rename Saddle Road as the Daniel K. Inouye Legacy Highway. The late Senator's work was key to receiving the Federal monies necessary for completion. Testimony may be submitted in various ways; please refer to the last paragraphs of the Committee's hearing notice which is viewable here:View full article


January 18, 2013

Certificate of Need: Ambulance Services

I received an announcement that the State Health Planning and Development Agency (SHPDA) has received a certificate of need application from Ohana Medical Transport for the establishment of surface ambulance services in Hilo. An application review in Hilo is scheduled for 10 a.m., January 22, 2013 at the Waiakea Health Center Environmental Health Facility conference room, 1582 Kamehameha Avenue. Anyone wishing to present testimony on this proposal is requested to notify SHPDA at 1177 Alakea St., Room 402, Honolulu, HI 96813.


January 10, 2013

DOT Meeting Rescheduled for January 16

The State Department of Transportation (DOT) has rescheduled its informational meeting to Wednesday, January 16. The location is at the Pahoa Neighborhood Facility, 15-3022 Kauhale Street, Pahoa. Originally scheduled for last month, this meeting's topic is the intersection improvements at Keaau-Pahoa Road and Old Government Road in Pahoa. Construction work is expected to last 12 months.


January 7, 2013

Plastic Bag Takes Effect January 17

A plastic bag ban affecting the Big Island goes into effect on January 17, 2013. Every supermarket and retail outlet will no longer provide customers with free plastic shopping bags. Please remember to bring your own recyclable bags.


December 28, 2012

Court Interpreter Certification Program

The Judiciary announced the 2013 court interpreter workshops offered by the Hawai'i State Judiciary Court Interpreter Certification Program ("Certification Program"). This once-a-year opportunity for individuals who speak English plus a second language is the first step required to becoming qualified as a court interpreter in the Hawai'i State Courts. All interested interpreters are encouraged to apply. Court Interpreters are independent contractors and earn $25 - $55 per hour at a minimum base of 2 hours a day. All interpreters must meet the following mandatory minimum requirements to become qualified to interpret in Hawai'i State Courts: