Ka`u News Briefs Feb. 11, 2011

Ka`u beekeeper Alison Yahna has been helping to caretake wild hives
and teaches local residents beekeeping.

KA`U’S BEEKEEPERS will be able to use a new product called Mite Away Quick Strips to keep varroa mites from sucking the blood and the life out of their honeybees. The state Department of Agriculture and the EPA are allowing the use of the pesticide in Hawai`i. It is already used in Canada. Beehives in Hawai`i have been hard hit by the mites in recent years. Even wild hives have been affected, and some beekeepers are adopting wild hives and helping them to regain their health.

THE STATE SENATE is considering a time-out on foreclosures statewide, calling for mediation, forgiveness, modifying payments and negotiations for five months. Ka`u Representative Bob Herkes said that it will help to protect local homeowners from predatory lenders who sometimes unjustly foreclose on those behind in payments. Under the moratorium judicial foreclosures with more oversight would continue. The bill passed the state House of Representatives yesterday.

Holland American Cruises' ms Zaandam, which may be allowed to host
onboard gambling when cruising between the islands.

HAWAI`I MAY HAVE GAMBLING, but it would be allowed only offshore on “gaming ships” sailing between the islands, if a bill that passed the House Economic Revitalization and Business Committee passes the Senate and House. A board would manage the offshore gambling and fees, and taxes and fines would go into a State Gaming Fund. The state Department of Budget & Finance said that any such revolving fund should have the capacity to be self-sustaining and have specific uses for the money collected. Some legislators want to limit the number of ships and set the minimum number of passengers for gambling to proceed. The Honolulu Police Department opposes the measure, with testimony saying “gambling exploits those who can least afford it and undermines community values.” One tour boat operator said that the tour boat business will go under if people are offered the gambling boat option. Utah is the only other state where there is no gambling.

Sen. Malama Solomon

SPECIAL STATE FUNDS could be seized for the state’s general fund under a bill proposed by Big Island Senator Malama Solomon. Some of the funds with local applications include 911 wireless emergency phone service, libraries, Hawai`i Historic Preservation, tobacco enforcement, beach restoration and a UH-Hilo Athletics special fund. According to Solomon there could be $1 billion dollars in special funds money that could go to offset the $850 million shortfall in the state budget. Critics dependent on the fund said that the back-up money, even when it goes unused, helps them to receive good bond ratings and loans for important projects. 

MORTGAGING GOVERNMENT-OWNED LANDS to fund not only development of county facilities but also some operations would become easier if the legislature passes new legislation. The measure involves issuing bonds for money that could be used for police protection, fire department services, ambulance and paramedic services, recreation programs, maintenance and lighting of streets, parks and roads, flood and storm protection services and hazardous substance cleanup. In the past such bonds have been used only for capital improvements, not services. There will be a public hearing on the matter tomorrow in Honolulu at the Legislature.

THE FRIENDS OF HAWAI`I Volcanoes National Park sponsor a Volunteer Forest Restoration Project tomorrow morning. Participants at least 14 years old remove invasive, non-native faya plants from the park’s Keanakakoi Special Ecological Area. Pre-register at 985-7373.

VOLCANO ART CENTER’S annual Love the Arts fundraiser happens tomorrow at 5:30 p.m. The gala supports the center’s arts and educational programming. Hors d’oevres, entrees, homemade truffles, wine and champagne will be served. Tickets are $45. Call 967-8222 for more information and tickets.