Lean Green Foods is a local company supplying the entire state with a soyfood called tempeh. Located in Hilo, the company is the brainchild of Benjamin Hills who has more than 20 years experience in the soyfoods industry.
Focus on the Economy
Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board
March 23, 1997
`Vacation' in Hawai`i leads to state-wide product sales
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
Lean Green Foods is a local company supplying the entire state with a soyfood called tempeh. Located in Hilo, the company is the brainchild of Benjamin Hills who has more than 20 years experience in the soyfoods industry.
"I came to Hawai`i on vacation in 1993 and was offered a full time job," said the Volcano resident. "Pretty soon, I realized I'd best start a business and work for myself."
Investors who helped Hills begin a tofu shop in Eugene, Oregon, in 1976 helped again and on May 8, 1993, he sold his first block of tempeh.
"Like tofu, tempeh is made from soybeans," said Hills. "Tempeh contains the whole bean, giving it a firmer and more meat-like texture plus it retains all the nutritional fiber."
Tempeh begins with soybeans soaked overnight then cooked in a large kettle. The water is spun out and a mushroom-like spore culture grown on rice is added.
"That's what does the magic," Hills said. "It binds the beans into a solid soy tempeh cake that can be used instead of meat in most recipes."
Lean Green Foods produces Soy Tempeh, Sea Veggie Tempeh and Ginger Teriyaki Tempeh Burger. The newest product is Tempeh Chili.
"Hundreds of cases a month get shipped out of here. It's everywhere in restaurants from Ken's Pancake House to the Hilton Waikoloa and Don's Family Deli. In supermarkets, check the frozen food section at KTA, Sure Save, Abundant Life, Keaau Natural Foods, Takata Store, and Kohala Health Foods."
Hills also ships to Kaua`i, Maui and O`ahu. The new product, tempeh chili, contains kidney beans, garbanzos, honey, carrots, onions and Hawaiian Chili by Max seasoning mix. It will be available at the Chili by Max stand in Kona, Canoes and Bears Coffee. He also recently provided samples to the military for possible commissary sales.
One of Hill's mentors is Bill Shurtleff, author of The Book of Tofu, who also wrote The Book of Tempeh in 1979.
He described the popular Indonesian food as "the world's richest known source of vitamin B12, one of the ingredients most often lacking in vegetarian diets. It is also highly digestible. One of the few fermented vegetarian foods made without salt, it is also an excellent diet food containing only 157 calories per 100-gram (3.5 ounce) serving. Finally, it is very low in saturated fats and contains absolutely no cholesterol -- in short, an ideal food for every health-minded person."
Soybeans are a source of phytochemicals such as inositol hexaphosphate, plant sterols, protease inhibitors and saponins, according to The Simple Soybean and Your Health by Mark and Virginia Messina. They are rich in protein, high in fiber and contain other nutrients such as calcium, iron and zinc.
"The whole cholesterol - fat issue brings it to people's attention," said Hills. "I get soybeans in bulk from North Dakota. I don't think it's feasible to grow them economically here. You need large plots of flat land and the beans have to dry on the plant. Source is no problem, but I wouldn't mind talking with growers. Perhaps if the tofu manufacturers here were interested too, we could all contract with local growers.
"You know, there's so much to do, I can't get up early enough."
Hills' other food company experience was with Fantastic Foods and Homestyle Foods in California. He is interested in speaking with investors regarding further expansion of Lean Green Foods.
Hills may be contacted by writing P. O. Box 10562, Hilo HI 96721 or phone 969-7692.
Sweet and Sour Tempeh
Tempeh does not have to be defrosted before cooking. Heat two tablespoons oil in a frying pan. Brown 8 ounces of Sea Veggie Tempeh on both sides. Add two tablespoons water and cover for two minutes. Lightly score one side in two directions with a knife. Sprinkle with soy sauce and flip over. Cook for two minutes more. Set aside.
Saute one thinly sliced onion in two tablespoons oil, add one green pepper thickly sliced, one papaya sliced and diced, two cloves garlic, one carrot thinly sliced and cook for five minutes.
Cut tempeh into cubes and add to vegetable mixture along with one can pineapple chunks (six ounces, juice removed).
Sauce: Combine the juice from the can of pineapple chunks, 1/3 cup water, 1/4 cup vinegar, three tablespoons soy sauce, two tablespoons honey and one tablespoon arrowroot or cornstarch.
Add sauce to the vegetable-tempeh mixture and stir until thickened. Serve over rice.
For more recipes, take a look at The Tempeh Cookbook by Dorothy R. Bates. Recipes include Szechuan Tempeh with Almonds, Cabbage Stir Fry with Ginger and Sesame, Super Hero and Ruben Sandwiches, Spinach Mushroom Salad, Hot German Potato Salad, Lasagna with Tofu and Tempeh, Calzone and Jumbo Stuffed Shells.
According to the Messina's book, "In China, the word for soybean is ta-tou, which means greater bean. In the United States, the soybean has been dubbed the miracle bean. It is doubtful that any food in the world is more useful or versatile than this little round legume. As an efficient and inexpensive source of protein, it is unsurpassed, and its other applications are almost limitless. Industry uses soybeans for everything from soap to paint to environmentally friendly ink. Henry Ford once wore suits made out of soybeans.
"In 1941, Time ran a photograph of Henry Ford swinging an axe into the trunk of his new `collision-proof' automobile. The plastic used to make the car came from soybeans. Ford dreamed of an `all-agricultural' car. To that end, he used soy plastic for gear-shift knobs, window frames, steering wheels, and other parts. He promised that in three years, he would be mass-producing this soybean car -- as well as refrigerators, sinks, and bathtubs made from soy."
These days Ford, whose soymobile dream never was realized, would be happy to know a soy-based diesel, Soyate, is being tested in public buses in St. Louis.
Coming events
Farmers and ranchers with eligible cropland may sign-up for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) with the Hawai`i County Farm Service Agency through Friday (March 28).
"The USDA recently published new regulations governing the CRP," said Lee Kunitake of the local FSA office. "The purpose of the change is to maximize environmental benefits and keep the most productive land working.
"Under the CRP, farmers and ranchers receive a rental fee and cost-share assistance from the Commodity Credit Corporation in return for converting environmentally sensitive acreage to desirable environmental practices. Planting permanent vegetative cover on highly erodible land and certain other acreages can improve water and air quality as well as benefit many species of wildlife."
For further information, contact Kunitake at 154 Waianuenue Avenue # 219, Hilo HI 96720 or phone 933-6963.
An in-depth 16.5-hour training course on pesticide application will be offered by UH-CTAHR Cooperative Extension Service Monday through Wednesday, April 14-16, at Komohana Ag Complex. Deadline for registration is Friday, April 4. This program is designed both for those wanting to prepare for the certification examination for restricted use pesticides and those simply seeking a better understanding of proper handling.
Topics to be covered include pesticide types and formulations, importance of label information, laws and regulations, life cycles of weeds and insects, application equipment types, calculations for dilution and dosage, drift management and ground water protection, hazards and symptoms of exposure, protective clothing and equipment, safe handling practices, transport and disposal recommendations.
The $100 registration fee includes study material and classroom handouts. Those interested in attending should contact Derek Shigematsu of the Hawai`i Department of Agriculture pesticide branch in Hilo at 974-4143.
Game bird winners
Congratulations to the winners in the third annual poultry symposium game bird competition.
In the rooster category, Edmund Serrao took first place in the dark bird class. In the red class, Kirk Lee's rooster placed first while Kalei Lindsey's Pocket Grey took first in grey. Brown-red first was awarded to Auggie Ornellas. Kendra Fujioka's Hatch/Mug cross took first in Mixed breed and Joe Soares first in Miniature.
For the first time a hen class was featured in the competition. Light colored first place went to Debbie Lee, Medium to Chantell Mueller, Dark to Eddie Pihana, and Miniature to Terrence Moniz.
Birds were judged by Dr. Cordel Chang. The grand prize trophy for best in show was presented to Kalei Lindsey by Rep. Bob Herkes. It was the first time the Waimea resident had entered the Big Island Game Breeders Association (BIGBA) competition.
"This is a difficult choice," said Dr. Chang. "I'm looking for birds that conform to the poultry standard and it's something of a beauty contest, more so than choosing the best athlete. I must say there was less of a lice problem this year. I'd also urge those entering such a competition not to feed the birds too much right before judging. Food in the crop ruins the profile."
"We have a great economic opportunity here," said BIGBA president Bobby Matsuda. "Our annual survey on farm costs and income is coming out and we hope everyone, from hobbyist to commercial breeder will respond.
"Our association works hard to perpetuate the breed and stand up for agriculture land rights."
For further information, contact Matsuda at 959-3263 or BIGBA secretary Halyna Kuheana at 968-8700 or write to P. O. Box 968, Kurtistown HI 96760. Golden anniversary
May first is more than Lei Day this year. It's the 50th anniversary of the first United Airlines flight to Hawai`i, which carried 33 passengers aboard a DC-6 on a trip from the west coast that took nearly 10 hours.
Special events are being planned throughout the state including a gala welcome at the Keahole-Kona Airport on the Big Island. For further information and to participate, contact the Hawai`i Visitor and Convention Bureau Big Island Chapter at 329-7787.
-0- Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Kea`au, HI 96749-9511, phone 966-8565 or e-mail billeger@gte.net
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March 16, 1997
Hawai`i comet maps, photos prepared by Mauna Kea astronomers
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
Coming soon to your Western evening sky is what many hope will be the top international skywatching event of the year: Comet Hale-Bopp.
Available now on your friendly local internet connection are images of Hale-Bopp taken with the University of Hawai`i 2.2 meter telescope and the Canada-France-Hawai`i telescope on Mauna Kea. The Institute for Astronomy (IfA) also offers sky maps for Hawai`i viewers.
Hale-Bopp was spotted first July 1995 in the constellation Sagittarius during the wee hours by Alan Hale of Southwest Institute for Space Research in Cloudcroft, New Mexico, and Thomas Bopp, an amateur astronomer from Glendale, Arizona. Within hours of reporting the bright fuzzy spot to the International Astronomical Union, the comet was named for its two discoverers.
At the time, Hale-Bopp was beyond the orbit of Jupiter. It astounded astronomers that an object so far away could be so bright and led to great excitement about its appearance closer to Earth. Hale-Bopp will pass Earth at a distance of 123 million miles.
The comet is estimated to be 25 miles in diameter, four times as big as Halley's comet. Hale-Bopp's last visit to our solar neighborhood was approximately 4,000 years ago when Babylonian astronomers most likely tracked its course.
Peter Michaud of the Bishop Museum Planetarium suggested the best time to look for the comet will be between 7:30 and 8 p.m. beginning Friday (March 21). Hale-Bopp will be at its brightest until Friday, April 11, when moonlight will start to interfere.
"The greatest thing about this comet is it's visible to the naked eye," said Dr. Don Hall of the Institute for Astronomy. "You don't even need binoculars."
Noting that comets are unpredictable, Harold Weaver of Johns Hopkins University cautioned, "They're very much like cats -- they both have tails, and they end up doing what they want to do."
The Bishop Museum's web page will provide updates at bishop.hawaii.org/bishop/planet/sky.html (your browser may want you to precede this and following addresses with http://www.)
The Institute for Astronomy received 100,000 inquiries a week on its web site before recent news of Hale-Bopp viewing suggestions. Hall anticipated that inquiries would double during the comet's passage.
Webmaster Richard Wainscoat confirmed this prediction saying Wednesday (March 12) "was the heaviest day we have ever had. I think interest in Comet Hale-Bopp will rise dramatically when it becomes visible in the evening. It is inevitable that we will go well beyond 200,000 counts per week."
In comparison, one year ago IfA's web site was serving about 20,000 documents per week, according to Wainscoat. By the beginning of 1997, this had risen to 50,000 per week.
IfA's comet images, viewing maps and other information may be found at ifa.hawaii.edu/images/hale-bopp/
Two other sites worth a look are NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and CNN.
A map of where to look day by day may be found at ericke.jpl.nasa.gov/hale_bopp/hbmarch.gif
The CNN site includes news stories and images plus links to many Hale-Bopp sites including photographs taken from the Hubble telescope. Check it out at cnn.com/TECH/9702/hale.bopp.comet/index.html
How do comets get named? Sightings are reported, usually by e-mail, to Brian Marsden who runs the International Astronomical Union's Central Bureau for Astronomical Telegrams from his office at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
"Marsden is said to be the world's master at computing orbits from preliminary data, and what he wants to know is where it's going," said Timothy Ferris in The New Yorker magazine of January 27, 1997.
"Comets are chunks of ice and black rock left over from the formation of the solar system. Most lie far from the sun, but a few occasionally hurtle down into the inner solar system, like starlings startled from the rafters of a barn. Asteroids are minor planets, some made of stones similar to those found in Earth's crust, others of metals like those at Earth's core.
"Most inahbit the asteroid belt between Jupiter and Mars, but thousands are closer, in orbits that cross Earth's. For nearly 30 years, Marsden has watched them come and go, and has heralded their arrivals like a butler announcing guests at a ball."
"Mauna Kea is now generally accepted as the prime observing site in the world," said Hall. "During the last decade, the development of telescopes there has tracked the most optimistic projections of the master plan adopted in 1983. In coming years many of humankind's discoveries about the physical universe will undoubtedly be made from Mauna Kea.
"Astronomy on Mauna Kea is more than a scientific pursuit. It is also a thriving economic enterprise. By the end of the decade, telescope operations will bring nearly $50 million annually into the Big Island economy from out-of-state, employing 300 to 400 local residents, and anchoring the UH-Hilo University Park. Astronomy on Mauna Kea also will continue to benefit the Big Island visitor and construction industries.
"Mauna Kea is accepted as the best-known site in the world for astronomy in three key windows of the spectrum -- optical (a wave-band centered around the colors seen by the eye), infrared (heat radiation in our galaxy and the regime of red-shifted light emitted by the most distant objects in the universe) and millimeter/submillimeter (very short wavelength, high-frequency radio waves).
"Mauna Kea is the site for the greatest concentration of large telescopes on the planet and home to all four 8- to 10-meter class telescopes being built in the northern hemisphere."
Coming events
The location of the second community forum on postharvest treatment facilities Tuesday (March 18) has been changed to Hilo Civic Auditorium. The meeting, sponsored by the Agriculture and Science & Technology Committees of the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board (HIEDB) in cooperation with the League of Women Voters, will take place from 4 to 6 p.m.
"This and future informational forums will include opportunities to present accredited scientific information which must be provided in writing, citing sources, contact information and the submitting organization or individual," said a release from the HIEDB committees.
Please confirm your attendance with HIEDB by phoning 966-5416.
Tuesday, March 25, Bill Moore will address the Hilo Woman's Club on proposed Saddle Road improvements. Moore, a planner with Ohakara & Associates, is preparing the Environmental Impact Statement which could help pave the way for a project important to residents, the military and visitors.
Begun in 1942 as an access road to the Pohakuloa Army Base, Saddle Road was turned over to the Territory in 1945. Road maintenance duties were transferred to the County of Hawai`i in 1957.
Senator Daniel K. Inouye formed the Saddle Road Community Task Force in May 1993. Secretariat support is provided by HIEDB.
"Saddle Road is the shortest route between the east and west side of the island, and as a result is widely used by island residents and a limited number of sight-seers, despite its poor condition," according to Kani Kua Mauna, the Saddle Road Task Force newsletter published by HIEDB.
"Proposed Improvements would upgrade Saddle Road to a two-lane highway with shoulders to provide adequate capacity to handle projected traffic volume for 20 years into the future, and bring the roadway up to appropriate design standards. Even without proposed improvements, future traffic volumes are expected to increase to levels beyond the existing road's ability to handle."
The brown bag luncheon meeting will be held at the Hilo Woman's Club community center, 7 Lele Street, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Coffee and tea will be available. For further information, contact the Hilo Woman's Club at 935-4095.
Thursday, March 27, Waimea Outdoor Circle will tour Norman Bezona's 40-acre cloud forest in Kaloko Mauka. Koa, maile, `ohi`a and 14 kinds of tree fern are being planted.
The outing will include potluck lunch. For reservations, call Brigitte Rutgers, 885-7801.
Coinciding with the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival in Hilo March 30 through April 5 is a salute to Merrie Monarch at Cook's Discoveries in Waimea.
Cutting and sewing hala lei will be offered by Marie McDonald from 10 to noon Wednesday, April 2. Utilizing several varieties of hala fruit, McDonald will demonstrate how these unusual lei are created.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday, April 3-5, Ski Kwiatkowski will talk about Hawaiian tattoo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Temporary tattoos from Kwiatkowski's designs including one traditional pua hala design will be available for those wishing to try out the look or shock their aunt. Kwiatkowski is the author of The Hawaiian Tattoo and Na Ki`i Pohaku (petroglyphs).
Saturday, April 5, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jerry Konanui will discuss kalo and poi. Sampling of several varieties will be available plus displays and huli sales. John Vincent's ono kulolo from Waipi`o Valley also will be available. For more information, contact Patti Cook at Cook's Discoveries, 885-3633.
The 2nd international conference on open ocean aquaculture, to be held April 23-25 on Maui, has attracted speakers from all over the world.
"Nearly 40 aquaculture specialists have indicated interest in presenting information at the conference," according to Ray Tabata of Sea Grant College.
A preliminary list of speakers includes Carlos A.P. Andrade of Madeira Fisheries Directorate on the environmental impact of an offshore fish farm in Madeira Archipelago: from modeling to reality; Carlos A. Batista from Companhia Insular de Moinhos on "Can open ocean fishfarming pay", and "Pelagic and bottom versions of SADCO underwater cages" by Ljudmila Bougrova.
Other topics include deep-water mooring systems for open-ocean aquaculture, ocean leasing, black pearl oysters, cage systems, nutrients, currents, waves, automation, and candidate species.
Field trips on other islands are scheduled both prior to and following the conference. Tuesday, April 22, participants will visit the Natural Energy Laboratory, home of pioneering ocean thermal energy conversion research and development, cold water applications research and various aquaculture projects.
The same day, another group will tour aquaculture sites on Moloka`i including a marine shrimp farm, traditional Hawaiian fishpond, backyard ornamental fish production and an integrated aquaculture-agriculture project.
Saturday and Sunday, April 26 and 27, a group will visit Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park and other Big Island sights.
For further information and to register for the conference, contact Sea Grant by writing 1000 Pope Road MSB 226, Honolulu HI 96822; phone (808) 956-2866; fax (808) 956-2858; e-mail ocnaqua@hawaii.edu or internet at soest.hawaii.edu/SEAGRANT
Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Kea`au, HI 96749-9511, phone 966-8565 or e-mail billeger@gte.net
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March 9, 1997
Japan seen as perfect market for Big Island potted plants
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
"The great business opportunity" is how one member of a recent Japanese Trade Mission to Hawai`i described the potential for export of our potted plants to his country.
Mr. Masahiro Yamakawa of Green Jyoho, a magazine for the potted plant industry, noted that current Japan floriculture industry sales are 46.5 percent cut flowers, 21.2 percent potted plants, 27.3 percent trees and bushes such as roses, and five percent others such as ground cover.
In remarks to the Hawai`i Export Nursery Association (HENA) and Hawai`i Tropical Flower Council (HTFC), translated by Executive Link, Yamakawa said, "With the break of the bubble economy, demand for large scale or costly plants has decreased. In Japan, gardening is becoming a very popular outdoor activity. Plants that will be utilized outside will be an expanding market."
Echoing his enthusiasm were Hawai`i residents and other visitors to the third annual Mid-Pacific Horticultural Trade Show and Conference sponsored by HENA and HTFC in cooperation with the state Department of Agriculture, Hawai`i County Department of Research & Development and UH-CTAHR.
Hawai`i County Mayor Stephen K. Yamashiro said, "Agriculture on the Big Island is very important for our future. We have active individuals looking for new products, new ways to ship products and new markets."
He also noted that several students from Japan recently completed nine months work in agriculture while studying on the Big Island.
Brian Suzuki of Hawai`i Air Cargo said, "Air transportation is vital to the success of this industry. The lowest per mile freight cost in the world is from Hawai`i to Japan. Because Hawai`i plants are the best quality, they are slightly more expensive, but with such competitive freight prices, Japan can get a better product than they would from Taipei or Thailand."
Jim Gibbons, director of horticulture at The Mirage in Las Vegas echoed the judgment of Hawai`i plant quality.
"We specify Hawai`i plants to our brokers. We don't like those Florida plants. They're too heavy. In cinder, Hawai`i plants seem to be better established. We are very happy with product from Hawai`i."
Suzuki also recommended better cooperation with importers to minimize losses. To the importers he said, "Do not leave it to your truckers to clear customs. Send someone knowledgeable about plants to make sure they are handled gently and watered on time. Get the plant to your customers in as good a shape as it was when it left the nursery."
Mike Conway of Tropical Connection in Pahoa noted the potential for export of potted flowering plants such as anthurium and orchids. He demonstrated with samples of anthurium varieties common to Florida and Dutch growers compared to a much more vigorous Hawai`i plant.
"We could send liners to Okinawa growers for your market," said Conway. "We want to know what will work best for you."
Hawai`i-born Robert S. Yamato, president of Robert International Corporation at Saitama-ken, was in town to speak at the Hawai`i Orchid Growers Association conference.
"Hawai`i growers have been exporting to California. Japan is different. They want something they don't have in Japan. Hawai`i growers must learn this.
"There are more than 350,000 orchid lovers in Japan," Yamato said during opening festivities for the Mid-Pacific Horticultural Trade Show. "There are 2,000 orchid societies. Because of the small size of most apartments, there may be great interest in miniature plants."
The trade show attracted more than 600 registrants in late February, twice as many as registered last year.
"The cosponsorship with HTFC for the first time allowed an expansion both in exhibitors and buyers," said HENA marketing director JoAnn Johnston. "We were able to promote the show at national and international levels through this cooperation. There's been tremendous response and people are already looking forward to next year."
John Rozett, chairman of the board of HENA, said, "There's better representation than in the past. The entire range of the horticultural industry is here and there's a lot more color on the floor."
Carver Wilson, president of HTFC, said the organization's purpose "is to expand and develop the market for cut flowers. This is a great venue for our members. We have a great deal in common with HENA -- we're all from Hawai`i, in an association, exporting floriculture. It's just that they're in pots and we're not, but more and more growers of cut flowers are also growers of potted plants. Plus, the trade delegation wanted to see cut flowers."
The tropical flower council represents growers of anthurium, orchids, tropicals, protea and recently added cut bromeliad flowers.
"It takes a certain amount of energy to do a show," said Wilson. "To consolidate efforts and bring more people under the roof at one time is better."
Exhibitors filled the floor at Edith Kanaka`ole Stadium ranging from suppliers of plant containers and packing materials for shipping to nurseries. Prizes for best booth went to IMC Vigoro (best support business booth), Asia Pacific (most colorful and artistic nursery display) and Hawai`i Orchid Growers Association (best commodity group booth).
Special mention must be made of catering by Volcano chef Leslie D. Hershorn. "The local food's over there," was the buzz of the trade show opening.
A graduate of the State University of New York Cobleskill Food Services, Administration and Catering program and the University of Denver Hotel and Restaurant School, Hershorn specializes in catered lunches and meetings for groups, corporations or conventions.
He considers "cooking my art and it's very satisfying when people like it. I travel all over and pick up things from every culture -- a sort of world cuisine."
Tofu poke utilized locally made tofu and fresh fish. The chicken in quesadillias was keawe smoked. He makes all his own seasoning mixes, using locally purchased ingredients and some herbs he grows and dries.
Betty Chin made the pastries and breads and Richard Martin serves as sous chef. Hershorn may be reached through his pager (808) 925-3514 or by writing P. O. Box 898, Volcano HI 96785.
"This gathering has been an incredible learning experience," said Dr. Lyle Wong, plant industry administrator with the state Department of Agriculture. "Translation into Japanese of order forms and informational material was offered by HENA ahead of the conference and trade show. Not that many responded, but when they were sitting at the round table discussion or standing at a booth, Hawai`i growers realized that the trade mission represented active, interested buyers. Next time, I'm sure more will take HENA up on the offer."
What's the latest hot market trend for plants in Japan? According to Kristin del Castillo of Tradeworks, a Florida-based firm that helps companies take advantage of export opportunities, "Palms of all kinds, with the exception of Rhapis, are of great interest especially the red sealing wax palm. Tropical flowering plants are of interest. The colors Japan buyers desire are changing. It's not pink so much any more, but orange and brown. They are very particular about which shade of orange and brown."
For a list of plants approved for export, contact Lyle Wong. For assistance in finding funds to explore new foreign markets, contact Janet Leister, both at the Hawai`i Department of Agriculture, 1428 South King Street, Honolulu HI 96814.
For further information, contact JoAnn Johnston of HENA at 969-2088 or Linda Huffman of HTFC at 961-5555.
Coming events
Today (Sunday, March 9), the third annual Poultry Symposium will be held at Komohana Agricultural Complex from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Sponsored by the Big Island Game Breeders Association in cooperation with UH-CTAHR Cooperative Extension Service, the symposium includes a presentation at 10 a.m. of information from Roger Martin on the business of game fowl breeding in Hawai`i County.
Birds will be judged in the poultry competition by Dr. Cordel Chang from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded to roosters in black, red, gray, brown/red, mix and miniature classes and to hens in miniature, light-, medium-, and dark-colored classes.
For further information, see livestock agent Mike DuPonte at the symposium or contact him during the week at 959-9155.
The Agriculture and Science & Technology Committees of the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board in cooperation with the League of Women Voters will hold the second community forum on postharvest treatment facilities Tuesday, March 18.
The meeting will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Butler Building next to Civic Auditorium in Hilo.
"This and future informational forums will include opportunities to present accredited scientific information which must be provided in writing, citing sources, contact information and the submitting organization or individual," said a release from the HIEDB committees. "Organizers are attempting to collect all questions for follow up presentations at subsequent meetings."
Postharvest treatments of fruit, vegetables, flowers and foliage are designed to rid produce of pests making export to the mainland states and foreign countries possible. Treatments, depending on the product, include refrigeration, fumigation, vapor heat or irradiation.
Topics to be covered in this forum include health, safety and training by Phil Manley of Gamma Corporation; draft economic analysis and draft facility size by the Hawai`i County Department of Research & Development; and throughput requirements by the Hawai`i Tropical Fruit Growers association.
Technology issues will be addressed by Dr. Michael Jones, UH associate professor of physics. An historical perspective will be offered by Kathy Dorn of the Coalition for Irradiation Concerns.
Regulatory matters will be covered by Dean Kunehiro of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Western Region, and Ken Miles of the Food & Drug Administration, Pacific Region.
Please confirm your attendance with HIEDB by phoning 966-5416.
Advance notice
The Hawai`i State Horticultural Show, featuring the annual anthurium competition, commodity group displays, informational booths and a nursery plant sale, is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, June 20 and 21.
Calvin Hayashi of the Hawai`i Anthurium Industry Association is Hort Show coordinator and may be reached at 965-9333.
Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Kea`au, HI 96749-9511, phone 966-8565 or e-mail billeger@gte.net.
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March 2, 1997
Technology helps Japanese track flower sales, distribution
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
Hawai`i's export nursery and cut flower industry leaders learned how Japan uses technology to sell and distribute huge volumes of plants during a meeting on the Big Island in February.
A roundtable discussion at Nani Mau Gardens gathered Hawai`i growers and shippers together with Japanese importers to share information on new products, transportation and current market trends.
Masayuki Asano of Toyoake Khaki Corporation, a wholesale plant auction house in Nagoya, Japan, brought a video of his company's new facilities.
Served by an excellent transportation network, Toyoake has about 13 acres of land of which six acres are under roof. New buildings include administration, receiving product, the auction floor and buyers area, and distribution.
"The varieties and quality have expanded so fast that there is too much information for humans to deal with," Asano told the audience through simultaneous translation by Executive Link.
"We have combined auction and distribution systems and automated operations at the auction site for an increase in speed, reliability and efficiency. Central computer control provides stable and reliable information."
Plant shipments are unloaded onto multi-level rolling racks. When the racks reach the auction building, tracks in the floor enable automated transit. A skywalk around the auction floor accommodates sightseeing groups.
As many as 300 buyers sit at computer consoles in a semi-circle above the auction floor. Information on each group of flowers or foliage is displayed on large screens. Buyers place their bids at the consoles. Each package purchased receives a bar coded label.
Each buyer also is provided with an auction card that looks something like a credit card. At the end of the day's sales, by swiping his or her card through a machine, the buyer receives a confirmation list and bar code information. Orders are then double checked by the buyers before going to the delivery area.
In the delivery area, an adjustable dock fits any kind of truck enabling the racks of packages to be loaded efficiently and swiftly.
The auction house also operates a cafeteria and tea room. Auction display screens are visible in the tea room and access to the computer system is available there.
In the year since the new auction house opened, Toyoake Flower Market enjoyed $180 million in sales. Of that total, $55 million was in foliage plants, $65 million in potted plants, $50 million in orchids and $10 million in other categories such as seedlings.
Asano stated that the nation's total sales topped $1.2 billion.
Asano expressed great hope for the future of Hawai`i-Japan business and predicted that by the year 2000 many seedlings and foliage plants would be imported from Hawai`i.
"I came here with great expectations," Asano said. "We need mutual cooperation to adjust to the Japanese market. Large garden centers have become the major retailers for these products."
Asano was one of 36 Japanese trade delegates sponsored by the Western U.S. Agricultural Trade Association and the Hawai`i Department of Agriculture visiting during the Mid-Pacific Horticultural Conference and Trade Show, sponsored by the Hawai`i Export ursery Association (HENA) and the Hawai`i Tropical Flower Council (HTFC).
This is more than twice the number of trade delegates that visited the HENA conference and toured Big Island nurseries last year. For the first time, several importers, researchers, retailers and government representatives from Okinawa joined in the effort.
Many shared Asano's enthusiasm for the quality of Hawai`i-grown plants. Some pointed out, however, that several countries are closer to Japan and are growing in quantity for that market.
Countries such as Taiwan, People's Republic of China, Thailand and the Philippines do not have the same high land, labor and transportation costs. A Japanese magazine editor pointed out that Vietnam and China are producing chrysanthemums for the Japan market.
For further information, contact JoAnn Johnston of HENA at 969-2088 or Linda Huffman of HTFC at 961-5555.
Coming events
One of the island's biggest displays of nursery plants opens Friday (March 7) at Edith Kanaka`ole Stadium at 5 p.m. Sponsored by the Big Island Association of Nurserymen (BIAN), the 17th annual plant sale offers residents an outstanding selection from more than 20 nurseries.
Everything from exotic fruit trees to native plants, vegetable starts to bedding plants will be available. Most important, the nursery people will be on hand to answer questions on optimal planting conditions and to offer cultivation tips.
The sale continues Saturday (March 8) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Proceeds from the sale help fund scholarships for local students studying horticulture at UH-Hilo.
The annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival theme contest is open to public entry. There is no contest entry fee. Deadline is Friday, March 21.
The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival is the oldest food festival in the state celebrating 27 years with events scheduled for November 1 through 8.
"Once again, we're looking for that one special theme that reaches out and embraces our special harvest," said Festival chairman Norman Sakata. "Last year's winning theme -- "Kona Coffee, Home Grown Aloha" -- was selected from more than 400 entries.
Other past winning themes include "Kona Coffee, Hawai`i's Finest" (1995), "Perfection in a Cup" (1994), "Kona Coffee -- World Class" (1993) and "Kona Coffee -- Be Sure it's Pure" (1992). Themes are featured on booster buttons, t-shirts and other products. There is a $100 prize to the author of the winning theme.
Mail your entry to Current Events at 75-5751 Kuakini Highway # 202, Kailua-Kona HI 96740 or fax to (808) 326-5634. Entries can be typed or handwritten and must include the author's name, address and telephone number.
Welcome ships' visitors
The cruise ship Italia Prima arrives in Hilo Harbor Tuesday, March 18, for the day from overseas on its way to Maui.
In April, five ships are due in port in addition to the weekly American Hawai`i Cruise ship SS Independence which arrives on Thursdays. During the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival weekend, the Navy oiler Willamette will visit April 3 to 6.
Wednesday, April 16, Statendam arrives from Ensenada for the first of four visits to Hilo this year.
Legend of the Seas, which carries more passengers than Queen Elizabeth 2, arrives for a day visit Friday, April 18, and returns Sunday April 27. Tuesday, April 29, Tropicale stops for its first of four day visits this year.
Harbormaster Ian Birnie noted an increase in interest in visiting Hilo with 23 out-of-state cruise ships plus the weekly Independence and two Navy vessels on the schedule for 1997. He said, "Already for 1998, 28 cruise arrivals have been scheduled."
Cruise scholarship
American Hawai`i Cruises executive vice president James Nobles announced the establishment of an $80,000 scholarship program by the cruise line for public high school seniors who plan to attend the University of Hawai`i system, including community colleges.
Governor Ben Cayetano and UH president Kenneth Mortimer joined in making the announcement.
Applicants must rank in the top 15 percent of their graduating class. Each will be required to submit an essay detailing their insights into the value of good citizenship and service to the community.
Scholarships in the amount of $2,000 will be given to one student at each of Hawai`i's 40 public high schools. Recipients will be required to participate in two community service activities during the year to be coordinated by the Services Learning Program of UH Office of Student Affairs.
Public high school seniors interested in the scholarship program should contact their school counselors for assistance in applying.
-0- Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Kea`au, HI 96749-9511, phone 966-8565 or e-mail billeger@gte.net.
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February 23, 1997
Tourism to high tech, activities abound in spring
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
The energy of springtime is evident in activities popping up in every area of our island life.
From tourism to high tech, agroforestry to ocean science, there's something to attract and involve everyone's interest. Some of the events are even exploring questions that involve our economy.
For example, do living libraries attract visitors? The tourism potential of botanical gardens is being explored today and tomorrow at the International Symposium on Botanical Gardens.
As part of the event, many botanical gardens throughout the state will be open to the public free today. Residents are invited to be part of the symposium which follows tomorrow in Waikiki to hear how these gardens might promote an increase within certain segments of the visitor industry.
The Amy B. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden on the Big Island; the National Tropical Botanical Garden at Lawa`i and Limahuli on Kaua`i; Kahanu Garden in Hana, Maui; Waimea Arboretum, the Foster, Ho`omaluhia, Koko Crater and Wahiawa Botanical Gardens and the Lyon Arboretum on O`ahu all are open for free public viewing today (Sunday).
The symposium on tourism and botanical gardens is scheduled for 8 a.m. through 3 p.m. at the Hale Koa Hotel in Waikiki Monday. A $25 registration charge includes lunch and a copy of Outdoor Circle's book Majesty II.
Richard H. Daley, executive director of the Denver botanical gardens will speak on the multiple roles of botanical gardens. Dr. Suhirman of Indonesia will speak on the role of botanical gardens in national development.
Katie Moss Warner, horitculture general manager at Walt Disney World will address how tourism is impacted by quality horticulture.
For reservations, contact the Garden Club of Honolulu (808) 988-7533 or fax your request to 988-4231.
Video premiere at UH-Hilo
"Hawai`i -- Your High Tech Paradise" a Regions of Choice video will premiere at the University of Hawai`i at Hilo Campus Center room 301 Friday (Feb. 28) beginning at 5 p.m.
"This is a very fast-paced, eight-minute video," said Barbara Kim Stanton of the High Technology Development Corporation.
Produced by GTE Hawaiian Tel, the video features science and technology opportunities throughout the state from the ocean's edge to the mountain tops.
Please RSVP to Myra or Liz at HIEDB, 966-5416, by tomorrow (Monday, Feb. 24).
High tech progress
Richard Henderson, president of the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board, and John Tolmie, HIEDB science and technology committee chairman, announced the formation of four action committees to continue efforts at economic development for Hawai`i County.
"The committees organized include public trust, education, infrastructure and marketing," said Henderson and Tolmie. "Many people signed up for these committees at the Stars, Science, Society II conference last November. We'd like to again solicit your participation in this important effort to expand high technology business opportunities.
"Legislative briefings and bill submissions for the Business Incubator for Technology and Science at UH-Hilo and the Hawai`i Island Electronic Village," have already begun according to Henderson and Tolmie.
Proceedings published
Conference proceedings from Stars, Science, Society II have been published by HIEDB. Henderson and Tolmie also announced the publication of the Hawai`i Island High Technology Strategic Plan.
To volunteer for a committee or request further information on the strategic plan, phone 966-5416 or fax 966-6792 or e-mail to clipper@interpac.net.
Environmental stewardship seminar
Farmers, foresters, land managers, landscapers, golf course superintendents, highway managers and supervisors, parks and recreation managers and others interested in effective weed control are invited to attend a workshop Monday, March 3, at the Hawai`i Agriculture Research Center (HARC) in `Aiea.
Integrated vegetation management through best management practices will be discussed by Rick Johnstone, forestry services for Delmarva Power Company in Maryland; Kevin Eckert of Hawaiian Electric Company on O`ahu and Dr. Sheryl Reilly, Environmental Protection Agency environmental stewardship program in Washington, D.C.
The seminar objective is to provide participants with useful information and to encourage those with weed control responsibilities to consider adopting integrated vegetation management programs that improve weed control and enhance environmental stewardship.
Sponsors of the seminar include the Hawai`i Department of Agriculture, UH-CTAHR, HARC, Hawai`i Forest Industry Association, Hawai`i Golf Superintendents Association, Landscape Industry Council of Hawai`i, Western Chapter International Society of Arboriculture, Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment (RISE) and Monsanto.
Participation is by advance registration only and the fee is $20. Registration deadline is Wednesday (Feb. 26). For further details, contact Rick Klemm at (808) 263-5771 or e-mail kalema@pixi.com.
Coming events
Steve Smith, manager for business and community affairs of Hamakua Timber, will address the Hilo Woman's Club Tuesday (Feb. 25) at a brown bag luncheon in the club's community center, 7 Lele Street. Coffee and tea will be served.
Hamakua Timber is a local 24,000 acre project of Prudential Timber Investments, which owns, or rents, and operates more than 300,000 acres of timber mainly in the southeastern United States.
For information, contact the Hilo Woman's Club, 935-9838.
The Big Island Beekeepers Association meets Tuesday (Feb. 25) at the UH-Hilo Agriculture Building at 7 p.m. For further information, contact president Kevin Roddy at 959-7421.
The East Hawai`i Rose Society meets Wednesday (Feb. 26) at 7:30 p.m. at the Komohana Ag Complex room B.
For further information, contact president Les Sakamoto at 935-7194.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources will offer a free evening seminar on tracking sharks and important fish species in Hawai`i Wednesday (Feb. 26) from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Kalanimoku Building room 130, 1151 Punchbowl Street in Honolulu.
Guest speaker Kim Holland of the Hawai`i Institute of Marine Biology/SOEST will cover where sharks go at night, secrets of tracking papio, other fish tracking research and movement patterns of some of the important fish species.
For more information call (808) 587-0393.
Saturday, March 8, folks interested in growing vireya rhododendrons will gather at Cooper Center in Volcano for a brown bag luncheon to consider formation of a vireya club.
For further information, contact Mitch or Sandy Mitchell at 967-7209.
Sunday, March 9, the Big Island Game Breeders Association will hold its annual poultry symposium from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Komohana Agricultural Complex.
Following registration, a workshop will be presented on farm economics. Dr. Cordel Chang will judge rooster and hen competitions and a silent auction will be held. Proceeds benefit the Mountain View and Pepeekeo Youth Boxing Clubs.
For further details, contact CES livestock agent Michael DuPonte at 959-9155.
Friday, March 14, the Hilo Orchid Society meets at Komohana Ag Complex beginning at 7 p.m. For information on membership and programs, contact vice president William Bergstrom at 982-6047.
Saturday, March 15, the Hawai`i Florists and Shippers Association will hold its 49th annual Shinnenkai at the Hawai`i Naniloa Kilohana room. Cocktails begin at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner, a program, and installation of officers.
For further information, contact Richard Nelson by phone 966-7306 or write Pam Ahuna at 831 Leilani Street, Hilo 96720.
Patchwork quilting in Waimea
A new quilt club is forming in Waimea to promote an interest in "American" patchwork quilting.
The first meeting will be held Saturday, April 19, from 9 a.m. to noon at St. James Episcopal Church Hall. For more information, contact Chung Pring at 885-6915.
Donations sought by Notre Dame
The Notre Dame University Hawai`i Club will hold its annual fund raising lu`au Saturday, April 12 at the LaFortune Ballroom on campus in Indiana. Co-presidents Elizen R.A. Cadavona and Kevin K.H. Chee are seeking donations of food, flowers, ti leaves and local products for door prizes.
More than 250 people have attended past events. Nearly 60 Hawai`i students are members of the club. Businesses or individuals interested in helping out should contact Cadavona at (219) 634-2788 or Chee (219) 634-3447. Correspondence may be sent to Notre Dame Hawai`i Club, 415 Lyons Hall, Notre Dame, IN 46556.
-0- Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Kea`au, HI 96749-9511, phone 966-8565 or e-mail billeger@gte.net.
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February 16, 1997
Four-color printing plant in Kona `keeps money at home'
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
A major principle in keeping an economy strong is to avoid sending money away for goods and services if they can be obtained locally.
The Big Island boasts a number of fine printers but until fairly recently we had no alternative for more expensive full color work than to send it away to Oahu, the mainland or foreign shores.
The four-color process that creates beautiful brochures, posters and post cards now is available here at home at APG Printing in Kailua-Kona.
David and Brenda McCasland are co-owners with David's sister Shannon and brother-in-law Scott Anderson providing graphic art assistance and fine quality press work.
"Scott's been in the printing trade since he was in high school," said David. "We started putting things together last April and got our big press in July. It's the largest multi-color offset press on the island."
APG Printing is located in the old industrial area at the end of Alapa Street. The two-color Perfector press can handle a sheet size up to 19 x 26 inches (image size 18 x 25 inches). Very crisp color is produced by 175-line screen work.
"Our emphasis is on quality, quality and quality," said David. "We're family owned and operated. I have three kids who grew up here. Two are in college here and one is still in high school. My sister has two kids and we keep them all busy."
Long-time residents may recognize the name Mandy McCasland as one of Konawaena High School's solar car drivers.
"We started that project in my garage in Ka`u," said David. "Brenda accompanied team when they went cross country during the year of big floods in the Midwest."
APG Printing has produced brochures for ecotourism enterprises and rack cards for several local tour and charter boat operators.
"Printing often is the first line of a business presentation," said David. "We want to help local businesses achieve the best presentation possible. Our prices are comparable to mainland prices. We buy our paper in Honolulu and can compete with the Honolulu guys anytime."
The large press size makes it possible to gang jobs to save on printing costs. APG accepts work on computer disk in either Macintosh or PC format.
"We work with area designers to facilitate the pre-press work then work to deliver high quality printing that helps make their artistic vision reality."
Recently, the company produced the folder-size "Big Island of Hawai`i -- Island of Opportunity" promotional piece for the County of Hawai`i Department of Research and Development and the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Graphic design was done by Gil Anguay Designs in Hilo.
"We're really grateful to Gil and the County for keeping the printing job on island."
APG Printing also can provide in-house graphic assistance thanks to the talents and training of Shannon Anderson.
For further information, contact APG at 329-7949 or toll free (888) 32-PRINT. Facsimile is 329-7956 and e-mail sanders@ilhawaii.net.
USS Salvor welcomed by growers
U.S. Navy sailors aboard the visiting salvage vessel, USS Salvor ARS-52, will feast on rambutan, papaya and carambola (starfruit) thanks to three local fruit growers.
A 10-pound case of extra fancy grade rambutan was provided by Brian Paxton and Jon Beymer of Manelo Orchards in Hakalau. Five cases of Hawaiian Host papaya were donated by the Papaya Administrative Committee and one case of starfruit came from Eric Weinert of Hula Brothers in Kurtistown.
The fruit was donated to the Hilo Council of the Navy League for presentation to the ship on its arrival at Pier One Friday.
"We are delighted with the generous participation of local agribusiness in welcoming the Salvor," said Hilo Council president John Davis. "We want to demonstrate the quality of Big Island produce and hope to encourage more purchases by the military."
Paxton and Beymer are in the midst of their first harvest year on rambutan, sort of a hairy lychee, which is one of several exotic tropical fruit crops grown in Hawai`i County. They began planting on former sugar cane land in late 1990.
"So far we've harvested 19,000 pounds," said Paxton last week. "We're expecting a total rambutan harvest of around 30,000 pounds."
Tropical specialty fruits tracked by the Hawai`i Agricultural Statistics Service include abiu, atemoya, caimito, cherimoya, durian, langsat, longan, lychee, mango, mangosteen, persimmon, rambutan, sapodilla, soursop, specialty pineapple, starfruit, white sapote, breadfruit, canistel, jaboticaba, poha, jackfruit, and rollina.
"Growers devoted 415 acres to tropical specialty fruit (in 1995), 25 acres more than 1994," according to the annual HASS report on tropical specialty fruit issued in October 1996. "In crop acreage totaled 275 acres on Hawai`i island with the remaining acreage located on Kaua`i, Maui, Moloka`i and O`ahu."
In 1994, there were 50 Big Island specialty fruit farmers of the state total of 85 farmers. In 1995 the Big Island had 70 of the state's 115 specialty fruit farmers.
"Papaya continues to be a major fruit crop for this county," said PAC director Emerson Llantero. "The donation to greet the Salvor is part of our expanded fresh fruit market promotional effort."
More than 80 percent of the crop statewide is utilized as fresh fruit with nearly 70 percent of fresh sales shipped to out-of-state destinations according to HASS. Much of the balance is sent to processing plants for use as puree, juice and energy bars.
"Both in-crop and harvested acreage were up with more papaya expansion on Hawai`i island," said the HASS annual summary of Hawai`i fruits.
"Hawai`i's tropical specialty fruit sales for 1995 are estimated at 1.3 million pounds, more than double last year's total," said HASS in the 1996 annual Hawai`i Tropical Specialty Fruit report. "Starfruit and specialty pineapple accounted for almost 60 percent of the tropical specialty fruit sales in the state. Marketing starfruit for processing accounted for the large increase in sales."
Hula Brothers' starfruit are sold as fresh fruit and processed juice.
"Hawai`i's Own, a frozen concentrate of pineapple and starfruit juices, is available locally at KTA Super Stores," said Weinert.
The Salvor is open for free public tours today (Feb. 16) from 1 to 5 p.m. For further information on Hilo Council Navy League membership and programs, contact Davis at 935-8575.
Coming events
Today is the last day of the Panaewa Stampede, sponsored by the Hawai`i Horse Owners Association, at Panaewa Equestrian Center next to the zoo. The rodeo begins at 11 a.m. Food booths and horse rides for keiki will be available.
Today is the last day of Ka Hui Kapa Apana O Waimea's biannual Hawaiian quilt show in Kuhio Hale Hawaiian Homes Hall. There is no admission charge for the day of displays, sales and demonstrations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tuesday (Feb. 18) the Hilo County Farm Bureau will meet at 7 p.m. in Room B of the Komohana Ag Complex. For more details, contact Diane Ley at 968-6951.
The USDA Rural Development five-year strategic plan continues with partnership review and finalization of the draft. The meeting will be held in the Hibiscus Room #2, Ala Moana Hotel in Honolulu Thursday (Feb. 20) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
"This draft Strategic Plan is a result of surveys compiled from a wide range of our state, local and public partners, as well as a series of community meetings conducted throughout rural Hawai`i during the past month," said state director Francis J. Blanco.
For further information, contact Blanco in Hilo at 933-3000 or Steve Payton, administrative director, at 933-3015.
Proceeds from the Big Island Association of Nurserymen annual plant sale in early March help fund a scholarship program for local students studying tropical horticulture at UH-Hilo.
Be sure to stop by Edith Kanaka`ole Stadium Friday, March 7, from 5 to 9 p.m. or Saturday, March 8, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. BIAN fills the stadium with knowledgeable nursery people ready and willing to answer your questions on everything from native to exotic plants.
Sunday, March 9, the Big Island Game Breeders Association will hold its annual poultry symposium from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Komohana Agricultural Complex.
Following registration will be workshop presentation on economics. The symposium also includes competition and silent auction. For further details, contact Cooperative Extension Service livestock agent Michael DuPonte at 959-9155.
Lettuce publication from CTAHR
Lettuce production guidelines for Hawai`i by Hector R. Valenzuela, Bernard Kratky and John Cho is available through the UH-College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources.
"In Hawai`i, local production currently accounts for about 18 percent of the total amount of lettuce consumed," said the authors. "Major production areas in Hawai`i include Mountain View and Wai`anae for leafy and semi-head lettuces and Kula and Waimea for iceberg types."
The publication discusses cultivars, soils and fertilizer, hydroponic production, pest control, diseases, weeds, harvest and postharvest practices. Color photographs illustrate symptoms of tomato spotted wilt virus and the effects of soft rot caused by bacteria.
For copies, contact your local CTAHR office regarding Research Extension Series 164, 630 US ISSN 0271-9916. Bulk orders or out-of-state inquiries should be sent to the Agricultural Publications Distribution Office, CTAHR UH-Manoa, 2500 Dole Street, Krauss A-19, Honolulu HI 96822.
-0- Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Kea`au, HI 96749-9511, phone 966-8565 or e-mail billeger@gte.net. - - p a u - -
The H4 Hawai`i Times' content is copyrighted by the individual writers themselves. All grunt work, html, graphics and presentation copyright Hot Spots Hawai`i 1995, 1996, 1997 All rights reserved. Feel free to link to our pages. For permission to copy, distribute or publish in whole or in part, any of the articles onboard, please contact the individual authors directly.
February 9, 1997
New brochure, video set to boost Big Island
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
Two new marketing tools are available to the County of Hawai`i in promoting the benefits of doing business on the Big Island -- a brochure and a video.
"We didn't have anything that showed the commercial side of the Big Island," said Diane Quitiquit, director of the Department of Research and Development. "We needed something to help us attract business to the island by showing that we are more than a tourist destination."
The folder-size "Big Island of Hawai`i -- Island of Opportunity" features an engaging cover photo by G. Brad Lewis. A die-cut pocket on the inside front cover continues the image and allows each package to be customized to particular markets.
"For some inquiries, we will include statistics on the airports and harbors," said Quitiquit. "For others, we will provide information on the Foreign Trade Zone, Enterprise Zones, banking, telecommunications, schools and universities, ecotourism and recreation -- whatever is needed to personalize our response."
She described the brochure as the brainchild of Mayor Stephen Yamashiro and a collaborative effort between the County and the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Graphic design was done by Gil Anguay Designs in Hilo.
"This new folder, stressing science and technology, agribusiness developments, health and wellness centers and the superior living conditions on the Big Island, will help us spread the word that we do serious business in paradise," said Quitiquit.
Don Hall, director of the Institute for Astronomy, said, "Government and industry leaders have helped create a partnership for international acclaim in astronomy and natural sciences. Hawai`i leads the world in establishing a vision for the knowledge industry."
Barry Taniguchi, CEO of KTA Supermarkets, cited the stability of Hawai`i as a consideration in doing business here.
"The fourth generation of our family is now in training for our island-wide supermarkets."
For more information, contact the County Research and Development Department at 961-8366 or write 25 `Aupuni Street, Hilo HI 96720.
`Regions of Choice,' an eight-minute video produced by GTE Hawaiian Tel features science and technology opportunities throughout the state. It premiered at the Pacific Telecommunications Conference in Honolulu last month.
"This effort was supported by all the economic development boards in the state," said Barbara Kim Stanton of the High Technology Development Corporation who attended the premiere. "There were people at that conference from all over the world, people who have viewed these kinds of promotions for more than 30 years and they were enthusiastic about `Regions of Choice' as a marketing tool for the state. It got rave reviews."
Copies will be available on the Big Island in early March. For further information, contact the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board at 966-5416.
The welcoming and relocation committee of HIEDB is seeking individuals, couples and families willing to work on an one-to-one basis with individuals and families moving to East Hawai`i as members of our professional and scientific communities.
"We want to provide a personal touch," said Nancy Cabral of the committee. "People have a wide variety of interests and questions from simple things like `what's that bug?' to serious inquiries about career opportunities and volunteer work."
If you are interested in making this commitment, please contact Cabral for a survey form at Coldwell Banker Day-Lum Properties, 2 Kamehameha Avenue or phone 935-4152.
Welcome port visitors
In Hilo, the Navy's salvage ship USS Salvor ARS-52 will be open for public tours (children welcome) Saturday and Sunday (Feb. 15 and 16) from 1 to 5 p.m. each day.
The ship has fire fighting equipment, rescue capability, can support diver operations to a depth of 190 feet, and can lift submerged objects weighing up to 300 tons using the main bow and stern rollers in unison. The power from her main engines is sufficient to tow a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier at a speed of 3 to 5 knots.
Salvor's six officers and 84 crew members arrive in port on Valentine's Day and are scheduled to depart Tuesday, Feb. 18. For further information, contact Hilo Council Navy League president John Davis at 935-8575.
Coming events
The Panaewa Stampede, sponsored by the Hawai`i Horse Owners Association, will be held Saturday and Sunday (Feb. 15 and 16) at Panaewa Equestrian Center.
Slack roping begins at 8 a.m. Saturday and rodeo begins at 11 a.m. Sunday. Events include barrel racing, bull riding, calf roping and bareback bronc riding. Food booths and horse rides for children will be available.
Advance tickets ($5) are available from the Association at 959-8932 or Coldwell Banker Day-Lum, 935-4152. Tickets at the gate will be $6.
It's going to be busy in Waimea Saturday (Feb. 15) with plenty of choices. In addition to Cherry Blossom Festival at church row and Waimea Outdoor Circle's plant sale, there's a quilt show and sale.
Waimea's biannual Hawaiian quilt show, presented by Ka Hui Kapa Apana O Waimea, will be held in Kuhio Hale Hawaiian Homes Hall Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Feb. 15 and 16). There is no admission charge.
Dozens of old and new quilts will be on display. How-to lessons will be offered. Pillows, wall hangings, quilts and patterns will be sold, finished or as kits.
For more information on Ka Hui Kapa Apana O Waimea, which meets the last Saturday of each month at the Episcopal Church, contact Georgette Kaniho, 775-9332.
Quilters will be interested in Quilt Hawai`i '97, a show and competition at the Royal Waikoloan scheduled for Thursday through Sunday, July 10-13.
For conference brochure, entry rules and general information, send a long self-addressed, stamped envelope and one dollar to Dawn Castelli, 78-6800 Ali`i Drive #8-304, Kailua-Kona HI 96740.
A slide show illustrating permaculture will be held Thursday (Feb. 13) from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Pahoa Community Center. A day-long workshop will be held Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. introducing permaculture concepts for sustainable farming and home gardening.
For further information, call 965-9203.
The Big Island Association of Nurserymen will hold its 17th annual plant sale Friday and Saturday, March 7 and 8, at Edith Kanakaole Stadium. Friday hours are from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Start saving your cardboard boxes now for this don't-miss-it event. More than 20 growers will be on hand with landscape plants, ornamentals, palms, fruit trees, annuals, vegetable starts, day lilies, bromeliads and orchids, according to BIAN president Allie Atkins of Lehualena Nursery.
For further information, contact chairman Gunnar Botz of Hawai`i Island Exotics at 965-7495.
Open ocean aquaculture
The second international conference on open ocean aquaculture "Charting the Future of Ocean Farming" will be held Wednesday through Friday, April 23-25, at the Aston Wailea Resort on Maui.
Conference program chairman is Dr. Charles Helsley of UH-Sea Grant College. Co-chair is Rollie Barnaby of the University of New Hampshire Sea Grant College. Conference sponsors are Sea Grant College programs of the Universities of Hawai`i, New Hampshire, California and Texas A&M plus the Hawai`i Aquaculture Development Program, National Coastal Resources Research and Development Institute and National Sea Grant Office, NOAA.
Fishermen, biologists, economists, engineers, investors, regulators, social scientists and other stakeholders are being invited from Australia, New Zealand, the People's Republic of China, Japan, Taiwan, Korea, Hong Kong, Southeast Asia and Pacific islands.
"The practicality of cage culture systems has been demonstrated throughout the world," said Ray Tabata of Hawai`i Sea Grant. "Successful systems have been developed in the fjords and sounds of Europe, Chile and eastern North America.
"Exposed, high-energy and atoll environments, however, have received little attention. Within the Pacific region, growth of aquaculture industries will require development of facilities designed for tropical and rugged coastal environments."
Early registration deadline for the conference is March 21. Fax Tabata at (808) 956-2858 or e-mail ocnaqua@hawaii.edu
Old Hawai`i on Horseback
The families of Waimea and Waimea Main Street will join Bank of Hawai`i in presenting a community celebration Old Hawai`i on Horseback scheduled for Friday through Monday, May 30 through June 1.
Anyone wishing more information or desiring to volunteer should contact Patti Cook at Cook's Discoveries, 885-3633.
-0- Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Kea`au, HI 96749-9511, phone 966-8565 or e-mail billeger@gte.net
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Sunday, February 2, 1997
Suggested Saddle Road improvements up for discussion
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
email K.T. Write here billeger@gte.net
A lot has changed in Hawai`i since World War II when Saddle Road was first developed. Yet, Saddle Road remains the only paved road leading to Pohakuloa Military Training Area and observatories on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.
"For the past two years, alternatives for the improvement of Saddle Road have been developed," said the January issue of Kani Kua Mauna, the Saddle Road newsletter produced by the Hawai`i Economic Development Board.
The latest issue includes 12 possible alternatives outlined in detailed text and on an enclosed map. All proposed improvements fall between Mamalahoa Highway on the west side and mile post 6 near Hilo on the eastern end.
"Implementation of any of the 12 action alternatives would result in a wider, less undulating roadway designed for 50 miles per hour with shoulders for increased safety, truck escape ramps, scenic pullouts, uphill passing lanes and proper signage," said the newsletter. "The new roadway would provide for greatly improved response times for emergency vehicles, reduced accident rates, increased traffic capacity, and reduced travel time and fuel consumption for cross-island travel."
Congratulations to Hilo artist Sig Zane of Paliku Graphics on the `ama`u fern (Sadleria) design and layout of the tasty publication. The name, Kani Kua Mauna, means `the sound of the mountain ridges' and comes from a chant of the Pele and Hi`iaka saga.
Anyone wishing to learn more about that saga may be interested in Holo Mai Pele: the epic dance drama presented by Halau O Kekuhi Saturday, Feb. 22, at UH-Hilo. Tickets are on sale now. Box office hours are Monday through Friday noon to 6 p.m. or phone 974-7310.
The Saddle Road project is an ongoing process with current plans for completion of the draft environmental impact statement in April and final EIS in December.
Big Island project coordinator Bill Moore of Okahara & Associates, is available for informational presentations to groups and organizations. He will address the Hilo Woman's Club Tuesday, March 25, at 11:30 a.m.
To arrange for a presentation to your organization, contact Moore at Okahara & Associates, 961-5527, or write 200 Kohola Street, Hilo HI 96720.
Early planning stages for another upcountry road, the proposed Lindsey Road project, will be the topic of discussion at the Waimea Community Association meeting Thursday (Feb. 6) at 5:30 p.m. in Kahilu Town Hall. Held in conjunction with the South Kohala Traffic Safety Committee, the meeting will feature Hawai`i County Public Works engineer Ed Yoshida.
"The project area runs from the stoplighted intersection at Mamalahoa Highway along Lindsey Road past Parker School and Waimea Park, and along Kawaihae Road past `Anuenue Playground and Waimea Park," according to the Waimea Community Association. "The project is still in its early stages though County Public Works staff have been meeting for several months with Waimea Councilman John Ray and Waimea groups including the 18-member volunteer South Kohala Traffic Safety Committee and Waimea Outdoor Circle, as well as adjacent landowners."
For further information, contact the Waimea Community Association president Peter Young at 885-4200.
Coming events
Today is the last day of the Hawai`i Isles Dressage and Combined Training Association event at Panaewa Equestrian Center.
Tuesday, the Science and Technology Committee of the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board will meet in the Palm Lounge, Hawai`i Naniloa Hotel, at 11:30 a.m.
Progress reports on the high technology plan, Hawai`i Island Electronic Village, and community forums are on the agenda.
Contact HIEDB at 966-5416 to confirm your attendance.
This is Mardi Gras week in Hilo. Check in with the Downtown Improvement Association for details on events, especially Saturday's festivities and parade (Feb. 8).
Saturday, Feb. 15, is Waimea's fourth annual Cherry Blossom Festival through the early afternoon at Church row.
The same day, Waimea's Outdoor Circle will hold its annual "Home Grown" plant sale in the old Mormon Church gym next to the Cherry Festival. Proceeds support Waimea Outdoor Circle's major project, the 10-acre Waimea Nature Park. Honolulu Advertiser horticulture columnist Heidi Bornhorst will be a special guest on hand to autograph copies of her new book "Growing Native Hawaiian Plants."
Tuesday through Thursday, Feb. 18-20, the Hawai`i Tropical Flower Council and the Hawai`i Export Nursery Association offer the third annual mid-Pacific conference and trade show. Those in the industry interested in attending should contact HENA marketing director JoAnn Johnston at 969-2088.
The Hawai`i Orchid Growers Association (HOGA) will hear from Kerry Herndon, owner of Kerry's Bromeliad Nursery in Homestead, Florida, at the second annual HOGA conference Thursday, Feb. 20. Herndon put 20 greenhouse acres into orchid cultivation in less than five years with dendrobium as his primary crop.
Other speakers include Robert Griesbach, an analyst with USDA Floral and Nursery Crop Laboratory in Maryland who will discuss breeding orchids for the U.S. mass market, and trends in European and Asian potted orchid production and marketing.
Gordon Inouye, founder of Puna Orchids and vice-president of Floral Resources, will speak on the market potential for Hawai`i grown potted orchids. Jim Gibbons of The Mirage will discuss the future of orchids at Las Vegas resorts.
Irwin "Windy" Overbach, founder of Rolling Greens Nursery in the Los Angeles area, will speak on trends in orchid supply and demand. Robert Yamato, president of Robert International Corporation in Japan, will speak from the perspective of an importer on the needs of the Japanese and Asian orchid retail market.
The potted dendrobium business, for example, has shown tremendous growth in the state. According to the Hawai`i Agricultural Statistics Service, potted dendrobium production area in 1984 totaled 564,000 square feet and by 1994 had nearly doubled to 1,060,000 square feet. In farm gate value, 1984 potted dendrobium sales totaled $854,000 whereas by 1994, the farm gate value reached nearly $4 million.
These figures are for potted dendrobiums only and do not include values for orchids sold as lei or cut flowers or sales of other types of potted orchids such as vanda, phalaenopsis, cattleya, oncidium, paphiopedilum and other recently popular species.
For further information and to register for the conference, contact HOGA at P. O. Box 2152, Kea`au, HI 96749.
The West Hawai`i Wood Show will be held Feb. 16-28 at the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel. Hours are 12 to 8 p.m. daily.
"Anticipated entries include furniture, sculpture and turning," according to Frank Chase, board chairman of the Big Island Woodworkers Guild. "Several pieces will be in koa and we anticipate a few in `ohi`a and milo."
For information on the Guild or Wood Show, contact Chase, 883-9154.
-0- Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Kea`au, HI 96749-9511 or phone 966-8565.
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Sunday, January 26, 1997
Massive ship is embodiment of our visitor industry future
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
email K.T. Write here billeger@gte.net
The arrival of the world's largest cruise liner in Hilo's harbor this past week spotlighted the value of an aloha greeting in building the Big Island's visitor economy.
"I've traveled on cruise ships several times," said Lani Kahawaii, executive director of the Hawai`i Island Chamber of Commerce, "and we were never greeted.
"I think the more we do this, the more ships we'll get. The greeting Destination Hilo gives makes Hilo very attractive. We're not just some ugly port along the way. Other places don't have what we do.
"The aloha spirit is alive and well here. We are friendly people. When we share that, then what the ships have is happy customers."
"The whole Pacific travel market is going to explode," said long-time Hawai`i promoter Dick King. "We need to be ready. The cruise market is just exploding. All of it's going to the Caribbean and other areas rather than coming through our good state. This would be a great base for these ships. Not only Hilo, but Honolulu, Kahului. Wake up Hawai`i. Here comes the world of floating tourism.
"A lot of cruise ships are being built now that will be coming off the line this year and next and the next. Wouldn't it be wonderful to get some based here for trips down into the South Pacific? We need to have an all out integrated effort to get geared up for the cruise market.
"The old Mariposa and Monterey used to cruise down through the South Pacific. We don't have that now. If Puerto Rico and the Caribbean can do that, why can't we?
"Hilo is an example of how things can be done. Downtown Hilo has a lot of charm. The old-style Hawai`i lives here in the spirit of the people and the historic buildings. Maybe the newspaper could help by publishing the ship arrival schedule on a regular basis."
Alice Moon of Hilo's Main Street Program and Downtown Improvement Association (DIA) said the organization is publishing the ships' schedule in the DIA newsletter.
"Yesterday was wonderful," enthused Moon about Wednesday, Jan. 22. "We passed out the historic walking tour guide and sent folks off to stores and restaurants, helped them get rental cars and taxis. There were tons of people in town walking and talking and laughing, all charged up and positive. Having the shuttle bus was great.
"Destination Hilo, greeting every single ship for several years, has done a fabulous job. I really agree with their philosophy: every ship, and every visitor, is important."
One tour company operator agreed saying, "I wish they (the media) would make an equal fuss about all the cruise ships that come in here. Legend of the Seas is a shorter ship, but carries more passengers than QE2 and she is coming to Hilo four times this year."
Legend of the Seas is due in Hilo Friday, April 18, Sunday, April 27, Friday, Sept. 26 and Sunday, Oct. 5.
Sharon Nekoba, store supervisor at Hilo Hattie, said their three courtesy vans ran all day and were quite busy.
"There was a lot of nice response from the QE2 visitors," Nekoba said. "More cruise ship visits would help all the local businesses."
Carol van Camp, general manager at Prince Kuhio Plaza, agreed.
"Our sales for the day were up almost 22 percent over the same Wednesday last year. We had two vans running all day. The more people coming to visit Hilo, the better it will be for all of us. Even if the ship is here for just one day, we want the visitors to have enough of a taste to want to come back.
Tony Hanley of Matson Navigation noted, "These things are very important to our island. We appreciate the support of the harbormaster Ian Bernie in encouraging QE2, and other ships, to visit and in helping with arrangements for greeting."
Providing a taste of the Big Island at pierside were Meadow Gold with guava juice and the Papaya Administrative Committee (PAC) with freshly sliced sweet fruit.
"I believe this was the first time Meadow Gold came to the pier," said Kahawaii. "I know they got good response and some business. They will restock the ship in Honolulu."
Emerson Llantero and the PAC did their first pierside product promotion for the QE2.
"All the packing houses participated -- Diamond Head Papaya Company, Tropical Hawaiian Products and Hawaiian Host -- plus some growers: Orlando Manuel, William Julian and my dad Lino Llantero. We had lots of Sunrise and great support from all the papaya growers.
"The response from the people on the ship was so encouraging, we are scheduling more marketing promotions at the Hilo harbor."
Mike Rankin of the Hilo Farmers' Market said, "We had a lot of people downtown, more than I've seen in a long time. Visitors from the ship bought packaged items such as coffee and macadamia nuts. Some bought a hand of bananas and I saw one couple with rambutan. All of it helps.
People at the Harbors Division, state Department of Transportation noted that, "A lot of people were happy that they came. We have more ships coming all year long."
The next arrival, other than the weekly Independence, is Italia Prima arriving Tuesday, March 18, at 7 a.m. and departing at midnight.
The QE2 visit means slightly more than $7,400 in the state's coffers for wharfage, dockage and port entry fees.
For the curious, Bobbie Kikuchi, office manager at Naomi's World Travel Service, provided information on a similar around the world tour in 1996. The QE2 tour lasted 95 days, beginning in New York.
"The least expensive cabin in this brochure is for one person at $27,600," said Kikuchi. "There are two penthouse suites with 24-hour butler service, Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth, that went for $537,800. There also are Queen Anne and Trafalgar suites, more than 30 of those, at $484,500.
"Ship visits to Hilo are great, even if it's just a day stop," said Kikuchi. "People are tired of being on the ship for four or five days. They want to get out and take a tour or rent a car. It's added business for Hilo and more would be great."
Coming events
Tomorrow evening (Jan. 27) the needs for business development, health care education, infrastructure, cultural resources, environment and housing in rural Hawai`i will be discussed at the Imin Center in Kona beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Thursday (Jan. 30) the Lana`i meeting will be held at Lana`i Community College beginning at 6:30 p.m.
These are the last public meetings in a series scheduled by the USDA Rural Development office to prepare a draft five-year plan.
For further information, contact Francis Blanco at 933-6909 or your local USDA Rural Development (Farmers Home Administration) office.
Wednesday (Jan. 29) J.W.A. "Doc" Buyers of C. Brewer will address the quarterly membership meeting of the Hawai`i Island Chamber of Commerce in the Crown Room, Hawai`i Naniloa Resort, at 11:30 a.m. For details and reservations, contact 935-7178.
Saturday and Sunday (Feb. 1 and 2) the Hawai`i Isles Dressage and Combined Training Association will hold a two-day event at Panaewa Equestrian Center. The organization also will hold a rummage and tack sale to benefit young riders.
Registration for is necessary. For further information, contact Maureen Goto at 935-9018.
Hilo's Mardi Gras is a week-long festival from Feb. 1 through 8. The festival parade and street party will be held Saturday Feb. 8, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Opening in Kalakaua Park and the East Hawai`i Cultural Center, festival activities will include balloon sculpting, face painting, jugglers, puppet show and continuous entertainment. The Meadow Gold Keiki Costume Contest will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed by the KTA Grand Peacock Contest through 2:30 p.m. The parade through downtown Hilo begins at 3 p.m. and the party on Kalakaua Street follows at 5 p.m.
"All the Mardi Gras events during the week will benefit the Domestic Violence Interagency Team, the Hawai`i Island Food Bank and the Hilo Downtown Improvement Association," said Alice Moon of the DIA. "Everybody should come. It's going to be great fun."
Other events include the Mardi Gras Ball Saturday (Feb. 1) and Da Kine Creole Cookoff at Sure Save Kino`ole on Friday, Feb. 7, beginning at 4:30 p.m. For more information, contact the DIA at 935-8850.
The Fourth annual Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival will be held Saturday, Feb. 15, at Waimea's Church row. Demonstrations of bonsai growing and care, exhibits such as tea ceremony, entertainment including bon dance and taiko drums and food booths with manju, bento and cherry ice cream are part of "Hanami," the viewing of flowers in springtime.
The first three Formosan cherry trees from Taiwan were planted in Waimea in the mid-1950s to honor the memory of Fred Makino, the founder of Hawai`i's first Japanese newspaper.
-0- Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Kea`au, HI 96749-9511 or phone 966-8565.
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Sunday, January 19, 1997
Governor brings forestry initiative to the Big Island
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
email K.T. Write here billeger@gte.net
Given the low standing our state has in job opportunities, every chance to build new employment deserves serious study and every consideration.
During the last year, Pacific Business News reported this week, Honolulu dropped to dead last of 100 metropolitan areas in job growth, paring some 5,200 available positions. The previous year the city ranked 96th.
Gov. Ben Cayetano spent two years searching for funds everyone thought were still in the state treasury and, finding none, he was appropriately busy bringing down state expenditures to avoid looming deficits. It isn't a way to make friends.
With the budget continuing to plunge, however, the governor has turned his attention to the revenue side, suggesting a large budget for capital improvements to get some construction jobs going and, in a Hilo conference, an ambitious push of forestry.
He isn't looking only to the woods. Speakers at the three-day Governor's Forestry Conference spent equal time on value-added endeavors: everything from top-of-the line furnishings in koa to eucalyptus chip-wood products that will result from current efforts on the Hamakua coast. Attendance hit 229 registrants.
There is a lot of action behind the words. Cayetano organized a cabinet-level committee and ordered department heads Lorraine Akiba, Mike Wilson, Jimmy Nakatani, Dr. Seiji Naya and Kali Watson to spearhead the rejuvenation of the state's forests.
Rejuvenation is an important concept, several speakers were fast to say, because the state's forests are in a mess, for the most part. Whether banana poka vine, guava, miconia, African tulip or some other plant is your favorite weed to hate, there are plenty of them intruding on the good stuff every day. And without much attention to stopping the invasions.
"More than 100 years ago," Cayetano said, "the Hawai`i Sugar Planter's Association understood the critical relationship between our watershed forests, water needed for development and agriculture, and a healthy economy.
"The Association's urging and direct involvement forged partnerships between the Territory of Hawai`i, private landowners and the sugar industry. This resulted in the nation's first forest reserve system."
More recent laws have inhibited the level of care every forest needs if it is to thrive. Good forestry practices don't necessarily allow a fallen tree just to stay in place and rot.
That's happening, however, in many state forest reserves and the temper of the times that passed forestry restrictions have made growing and harvesting some species a problem even on private lands. These problems and others were given ample, detailed airing at the conference. Many attending believe that spirit is very promising for the future. Maybe some problems can be solved, in other words, if we are willing to listen to what they are.
A cautionary word came from W. Lloyd Jones of Martin & MacArthur, current president of the Hawai`i Forest Industry Association, who was asked to speak on history. He split it three ways, "the history of forestry, history of the forest industry and history of collective efforts similar to this meeting to promote a forest industry."
Jones held aloft for all to see documents from his and other libraries that resulted from past meetings. "I can find record of more than 25 conferences on forestry in the last 40 years," Jones said.
"A noteworthy effort was made in 1976. The forests were inventoried, plans were prepared, a major conference was held -- including breakout sessions -- and proceedings were published and the governor made a commitment in his State of the State Address to `allow a commercial forest industry to develop.'
"The only result that I can find from all that effort," Jones said, "is that, other than the koa operations, all businesses listed at that time are now defunct."
These sobering notes were not sounded to discourage. And they had good effect. Many attending already knew that forestry faces difficult days, given the best of circumstances. But now they knew that, at long last, the state was taking due notice and promising high level government involvement to "get the job done."
Deciding exactly what that job is was the primary job of the conference. Most of the sessions in Edith Kanakaole Hall at UH-Hilo were directly on the question of what needs to be done to correct our problems.
When the breakout work started the second day the focus was on specific ways these objectives could be met, precisely what actions were needed and which individuals or organizations in the state should have these tasks assigned.
You may spot a major difference here, unlike a lot of conferences sponsored by the state or some other level of government. A familiar pattern is the pre-set delivery of "keynote." These tend to set the adopted "facts" pre-determined by consultants who were asked to look into the problems contracting agencies thought existed.
In contrast, here problems were left to be defined by the highly professional group in attendance. In the many breakout sessions -- with about 15 attending each -- reporters were assigned to bring back to a third day notes to be pounded into a document that would give direction for interested parties to take.
There is some incentive for action. Sen. Daniel Inouye provided half a million in federal funding that must be matched by state government. The governor seeks to augment this million-dollar pot with $300,000 from the private sector. There was some grumbling at this, in the audience, because most landowners and businesses believe they are already stretched to the limit in their existing efforts in behalf of forestry.
That fund, if reached, is to be used in ways discovered in the process. To be administered by the Division of Forestry and Wildlife, it might be used to provide a Forestry Extension Agent -- we don't presently have one and the Cooperative Extension Service is short on agents for existing agriculture needs.
Oregon enjoys extremely advanced educational methods in forestry. Those methods could qualify for funding to bring the issues in good forestry practices to our young people beginning in the fourth or fifth grade.
The forestry conference was a strong beginning with a broad base of interested, capable citizens. Many know about forestry and many, as the governor confessed of himself, have much to learn. If it works, the island standing to benefit most is Hawai`i County with its already broad expanse of private and government stands.
It was a timely conference, as Cayetano said. "Your active participation and concern for Hawai`i`s forests and today's emerging forest opportunities is vital to assure that future generations will have a full array of high quality forest environments to cherish, enjoy and use."
Coming events:
Mitch Mitchell of Volcano is an early Vireya enthusiast on the Big Island.
A group of Vireya rhododendron growers on the Big Island will host several national and international figures for a series of informal presentations Friday, Jan. 31, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Volcano Garden Exchange upstairs meeting room.
Dr. George Argent, head of South Asian botany at the Royal Botanical Society, Edinburgh, Scotland; E. White Smith, editor of the international newsletter The Vireya Vine; Luci Sorenson, co-owner of Bovees Nursery, Portland, Oregon; Richard Cavender of Red's Rhodies in Portland, Oregon; Barbara Campbell, District Five director of the American Rhododendron Society and Peter Schick of the Mendocino Botanical Garden in California are among confirmed speakers.
There is no charge for the program, but organizers would like an idea of attendance in order to prepare the meeting room and schedule a place for no-host luncheon. A plant sale of vireyas from New Zealand and Hawai`i will be held. Please contact Mitch or Sandy Mitchell at 967-7209.
The Hilo Wal-Mart will open Wednesday, Jan. 29, following a blessing, according to manager Jimmy Cross.
Later that day, J.W.A. "Doc" Buyers of C. Brewer will address the membership meeting of the Hawai`i Island Chamber of Commerce in the Crown Room, Hawai`i Naniloa Resort, at 11:30 a.m. For details and reservations, contact 935-7178.
Buy Local
What's new & who's moved
Island Grinds, a venture of the folks who bring you those delicious Waikaluhea vinegars, is a lunchwagon at Hilo's bayfront beach. From plate lunches and burgers to vegetarian choices and salad bar, Island Grinds features many foods grown and produced on the Big Island.
Open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Island Grinds accepts phone orders and delivers in the Hilo area. Call 895-0625 after 9 a.m.
Paradise Plants has a new home on Wiwo`ole Street. Visible from Kanoelehua (Highway 11), the building is painted like copper patina. Though smaller in square footage, the new store features better organization of gift and kitchen items at the entry. The Hawai`i Tropical Fruit Growers' library will be housed in a reading room along with an expanded collection of reading materials.
Outdoors, house plants, bedding plants, fruit trees and an exquisite palm allee carry forward the tradition of fine selections established by Paradise Plants at their former Waiakea site. Owner Leslie Hill mentioned plans for Saturday seminars and demonstrations.
The Big Island Chapter of the Hawai`i Visitors and Conventions Bureau just released a full-color self-guided driving tour that suggests easy to follow one-, two- and three-day itineraries. Featured regions are the Kona Coast, South Point and Ka`u, Hilo to Puna, Kohala Coast, Waimea to Kohala, Hamakua and Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park.
The brochures are free. Contact the HVCB at 961-5797 or 329-7787 for distribution sites.
-0- Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Kea`au, HI 96749-9511 or phone 966-8565.
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Sunday, January 12, 1997
Conference planted ideas now bringing visitors to Isle
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
email K.T. Write here billeger@gte.net
A year ago, the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board, Hawai`i Visitors Bureau Big Island Unit and Hawai`i County Department of Research and Development sponsored a two-day conference on ecotourism which involved many in the bed and breakfast visitor accommodation industry.
Speaking to the conference, Rep. Bob Herkes cited an architect's definition: "Ecotourism is an economic model that utilizes tourism to support conservation of the natural environment, reinforce the cultural heritage of indigenous people and support the local economy."
Since then, the Big Island has seen growth in the number of visitors seeking alternate recreational and cultural experiences.
Empty-nesters Carole and Don Swangel moved to Hawaiian Ocean View Estates 30 years ago and built their home of native rock and wood. One year ago they opened Leilani B&B and are members of the Hawai`i Island Bed and Breakfast Association (HIBBA).
"We get a nice variety of people, many from Europe," said Carole. "They all ask about out-of-the-way places to see. There is a kipuka on the property and they can also explore a lava tube. Visitors from Switzerland were particularly interested in seeing the volcano at night."
Leilani B&B, P. O. Box 6037 Ocean View, HI 96737, 939-7452 or through the HIBBA web site at http://www.stayhawaii.com
Possibly the most remote B&B is Hobbit House in upper Wai`ohinu Valley operated by Bill and Darlene Whaling.
"There are deep, old-growth forests up in the valley," said Bill. "Mark Twain was stuck here for awhile. He made arrangements for a horse to go to Volcano. On the way the horse died so he had to return to get a donkey. We are living exactly where he stayed according to his memoirs."
Most guests come from the mainland and hear about the "whimsically artistic bungalow" through word of mouth. Not part of HIBBA, the Whalings maintain a web site at http://www.konaweb.com/hobbit/index.html
"There is a helipad on site and some people come up from the hotels for picnics," said Bill. Weddings have been held at the site while others come to see solar and wind renewable energy technology at work.
Contact the Whalings at 929-9755 or by writing P. O. Box 269, Na`alehu, HI 96772.
The Hilo Seaside Retreat grew out of a massage therapy enterprise. Patti Oliver recently opened for business in Keaukaha.
"We are oceanfront just outside of Hilo with cool tidal pools and the cottage offers Jacuzzi and furo. People ask about mountain biking, snorkeling and sailing. There have been some inquiries from Japan and France, but most of my business so far has been couples from the mainland."
Oliver finds most bookings coming through HIBBA and the internet. She may be reached at P. O. Box 10960, Hilo HI 96721, 961-6178 or http://www.hawaii-bnb.com/seaside.html
Those seeking a B&B experience in an historic setting will enjoy the restored Shipman House on Reed's Island in Hilo when it opens this spring. Contact Barbara-Ann and Gary Anderson, 934-8002 or toll-free 1-800-627-8447.
Up the coast are Walter and Elisabeth Patton who opened Hale Lamalani four years ago. Located on a working dracaena and honey bee farm, the Pattons offer B&B and hostel accommodations.
"We've had people from Israel, Europe, Canada, New Zealand and Australia," said Walter. "Elisabeth speaks French, Italian, Spanish and English.
"They really want to know about the life style here, not just glancingly see it. They are very curious about farming activity. Some get in the bee suit and go out with me to harvest honey. They always ask about off-the-beaten-track places. We are beginning to see more mountain bikers and campers.
"Several years ago I stayed at Amy Lannan's B&B in Hilo and picked up something from her. `Don't be afraid to go to the end of the road.' I've tried to pass that along."
Contact the Pattons at 964-5401 or by writing 27-703 Ka`ie`ie Road, Papa`ikou HI 96781, e-mail hihoney@ilhawaii.net and web site http://www.alohamall.com/hamakua/lamalani.htm
The rustic Wood Valley B&B grew out of Jessie Hillinger's massage business ten years ago.
"I've been a licensed masseuse for more than 20 years. People would come to this healing environment and they wouldn't want to drive all the way back to town. I received training from Auntie Margaret Machado who is a famous Hawaiian healer in the Kona area.
"This is an old plantation house. Lots of people who have lived on the island have never been to Wood Valley so it's kind of special to come here.
"Visitors from off island ask where can they hike or go to the beach. They're curious about green and black sand and hawksbill turtles. They want to know where it is safe to camp, what about Hawaiian sovereignty and proper etiquette for visiting the volcano."
Contact Hillinger at 928-8212, fax 928-9400 or write P. O. Box 37, Pahala HI 96777. A HIBBA member, she is available through that web site or http://www.development.civicnet.org/webmarket/hawaii/jessie.html
E-mail to jessie@aloha.net
Coming events
A dialogue on post harvest treatment facilities, including irradiation, will be held Thursday (Jan. 16) beginning at 4 p.m. at the Seven Seas Lu`au House. The Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board's Agriculture and Science & Technology Committees are sponsoring the information exchange in cooperation with the League of Women Voters.
Tony Hanley, chairman of the Agriculture Committee, said, "We propose a series of forums on topical issues to provide scientifically-based information to the benefit of the larger community."
John Tolmie, chairman of the Science and Technology Committee noted, "Although these forums will not have formal structure, we will ask for basic ground rules: accreditation or reference from scientifically validated sources, civility, open minds and introduction of individuals or organizations attending.
"We hope to demonstrate that we can, as a community, engage in constructive dialogue instead of diatribe. We will not ask for consensus or seek to convince."
Informational speakers include Dr. Jack Armstrong, Dr. Lyle Wong, Dr. Harvey Chun and Dr. James Moy. Facilitation by Margarita Hopkins of Hawaii County's Research and Development Department.
Please confirm your attendance to HIEDB at 966-5416.
Deborah Harrison, naturopathic animal doctor, will speak on "Caring for your critters naturally" Monday (Jan. 13) from 6 to 7 p.m. at Tutu's House, the community health resource center in Parker Ranch Shopping Center. Call 885-6777 for further details and other program information.
The Kona Coffee Council moved its annual meeting to Saturday (Jan. 18) at Teshima's Restaurant from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Anyone interested in the mission of the council, education and promotion of 100 percent Kona coffee, is welcome to attend, but you must be a dues paying member to vote. For further information, contact Cecelia Smith at 328-8060.
The Hilo Orchid Society will install new officers at a banquet Saturday (Jan. 18). Contact Marlene Lundquist at 982-6626 by Monday (Jan. 13) for details.
Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 1 & 2, the Hawai`i Isles Dressage and Combined Training Association will hold a two-day event at Panaewa Equestrian Center. The organization also will hold a rummage and tack sale to benefit young riders.
Registration for is necessary. For further information, contact Maureen Goto at 935-9018.
Tuesday through Thursday, Feb. 18-20, the Hawai`i Tropical Flower Council and the Hawai`i Export Nursery Association offer the third annual mid-Pacific conference and trade show. Those in the industry interested in attending should contact HENA marketing director JoAnn Johnston at 969-2088.
Correction
In the January 5 column on B&Bs, one of Nita Isherwood's internet addresses for Affordable Hawai`i at Pomaika`i Farm was listed incorrectly. It should be http://wwtc.com/hawaii/pomaikai.htm
-0- Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Kea`au, HI 96749-9511 or phone 966-8565.
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Sunday, January 5, 1997
Internet helping the fast-growing B&B industry
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
email K.T. Write here billeger@gte.net
Bed and Breakfast -- B&B, as it's known to friends -- is a growing business on the Big Island with many owners happy that their customers -- after finding them on the internet -- enjoy the friendly atmosphere of Hawai`i.
And there are indications that B&B visitors are a new addition to the potential tourism market and are likely to return for another stay.
Hawai`i Visitors Bureau figures through November 1996 show that bed and breakfast accommodations experienced a 61.2 percent increase, year-to-date, compared to 1995, the highest increase of any type of accommodation. In real people numbers, that's slightly fewer than 92,000 bed and breakfast guests compared to more than 4.5 million hotel guests and more than 1.1 million condominium visitors statewide.
Nearly 92 percent of the B&B guests were westbound visitors.
There are B&B operations in every area of our island, from farm settings and remote wilderness to city homes.
Affordable Hawai`i at Pomaika`i Farm, open a little more than a year, is near the 107 mile marker on Mamalahoa Highway.
"This is a working farm," said Nita Isherwood. "We raise macadamia nut, coffee and lots of fruit. The farm house is circa 1935 and together, with the old coffee barn, we have five units."
Isherwood is a member of the Board of Directors of the Hawai`i Island Bed and Breakfast Association (HIBBA) and wrote the "what to do in Kona" section for the association's web page and heads the membership committee. HIBBA's internet address is
http://www.stayhawaii.com
She maintains separate web presences at
http://www.tc.com/hawaii/pomaikai.htm and nitab+b@ilhawaii.net
"I started with assistance from a Federal grant to show that small businesses could make it on the internet. More than 80 percent of my business comes from the internet. We get people from all over the world -- Singapore, Germany, Japan, Australia -- and they tend to be academics. That's one group of people really connected to the internet."
Also active in the eco-tourism association, Isherwood finds that visitors want to know about Hawaiian history, plants and people.
"We're actually in Ke`e at the 1,200-foot level and the lanai overlooks the bay. An old donkey trail runs across the property. Guests like it because it is old Hawai`i."
For further information, contact Isherwood at 328-2112 or write 83-5465 Mamalahoa Highway, Captain Cook, HI 96704.
Amy Lannan opened Lihi Kai overlooking Hilo Bay more than 15 years ago and is not connected to any electronic media beyond the answering machine.
"Business is better than it's ever been. For every person that stays here, another gets turned away. Most come by word-of-mouth referral.
"B&B guests are looking for something different. For example, many Navy people like to stay in B&Bs to get more of the flavor of the locale than they would get staying in most hotels. They're looking for more personal attention.
"We're just starting to see Japanese guests. They didn't use to stay in bed and breakfast places. Many of our guests are from Europe: English, German, and French. We see some from Holland, Denmark and Sweden and a few from India."
Termed by travel writers "active, opinionated, well-read and funny," Lannan says she's booked solid through February. Merrie Monarch bookings came in last year and reservations are already in hand for October.
Lannan said the first question most guests ask is "Where is the best place to eat. The next morning they ask what is the best thing to see. If they're here for a week, we lay out a plan. If they're only here three days we suggest the Volcano, Akaka Falls and Waipi`o Valley. For the more adventurous and those interested in more driving, we suggest Honoka`a, Waimea and Honaunau.
"Next, they're interested in places to buy things and we suggest Dan DeLuz, Sig Zane Designs and Hilo Hattie.
"This is a whole new clientele for the visitor industry and they're of great value to the island," Lannan said. "I estimate the average B&B stay (a room with a couple) nets the island $200 a day beyond what they pay for accommodations.
"We were awful green at the beginning about what was required. I'd visited several B&Bs myself in England. I found from traveling that cleanliness is the main thing. Next, you don't want a dusty driveway. Neighbors will be bothered. It's a great thing to do, widens your horizons and attitudes. It's a joy, not a chore. Sometimes people ask me `How do you keep house?' Exactly as you would if you were expecting your mother-in-law."
Contact Lannan at 935-7865 or write to 30 Kahoa Road, Hilo HI 96720.
Tim and Jeannie Mann had the name for their enterprise come to them in a dream. Luana Ola Bed & Breakfast in Honoka`a is two cottages at the other end of two acres from the main house.
"The inoa po means `to be at rest or leisure in pleasant surroundings," said Tim, who is the vice chair for HIBBA. "The Big Island has the only organization of our type in the state, as far as I know. HIBBA does an annual quality control inspection. We require that our members maintain high standards. If someone were to have a bad experience with one member it would reflect on everyone. We're modeling this on the kind of experiences we like to have when we travel. A growing percentage of the traveling public is looking for something off the beaten track, something that involves the people who actually live there.
"B&Bs are a benefit to the communities they're in because they bring visitors to communities that don't have hotels: Honoka`a, Na`alehu, Hawi. Once the visitor is there, they want to things -- go exploring on horseback, hike. We're near Waipi`o Valley which is a 25 minute walk down and 45 minutes back up.
"A lot find us on the internet. That makes it very easy to correspond with them -- just e-mail response. The Hawai`i Visitors Bureau publication also seems to be real effective. After two years, we looked back and the largest categories of people coming are local people visiting relatives and referrals.
"We're also starting to see more people who may not be staying in the area but come through on bicycles to sightsee and shop."
Jeannie Mann noted that some guests combine a resort stay with a B&B stay during their vacations.
"They get to see several sides of Hawai`i that way. We often recommend that our guests dine at the resorts."
"There's more room for expansion of B&B industry on this island," said Tim Mann. "It attracts a different type of person. If they can't find it here, they will go to Maui or Bali.
"One of the provisions of the new zoning code relates to bed & breakfasts. There will be a general amnesty for those who have been operating without permits until June 1997. The intention is to get all B&Bs operating legally and following county standards: parking, lighting, building permits, and so on.
"It used to be real adversarial, a mean and nasty process. The new position of the County recognizes the value of this sector of small business. We plan to have all members go through the permit process and to support them as they do."
For further information, look up the HIBBA web site or write HIBBA at P. O. Box 1890 Honoka`a HI 96727. Luana Ola is reachable at 775-7727 or by writing P. O. Box 430 Honoka`a HI 96727.
More next week on the ecotourism/cultural tourism market and B&Bs.
Coming events
Monday and Tuesday (Jan. 6 and 7) the Governor's forestry conference, "Sustainable Forestry in Hawai`i: A Common Vision," will be held at UH-Hilo. Advance registration is required. Contact Carl Masaki at the Department of Land & Natural Resources in Honolulu (808) 587-0166 or Steve Todd at the Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism in Hilo at 974-6440.
Saturday (Jan. 11), the Hawai`i Organic Farmers Association (HOFA) presents an organic farmers' Makahiki at the Sunset Grill in Honolulu.
Rep. David Morihara and chairman of the Department of Agriculture James Nakatani will address the membership meeting at 5 p.m.
Beginning at 6 p.m., the public is invited to enjoy locally grown organic food, no-host cocktails and music with Willie K and George Kahumoku, Jr.
For further information or to make reservations, contact HIFA at 965-9206 on the Big Island, 573-0995 on Maui, 828-1966 on Kauai or 947-3683 on O`ahu.
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Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board. Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Kea`au, HI 96749-9511 or phone (808) 966-8565.
Or, try emailing K.T. Write here billeger@gte.net
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December 29, 1996
Big Isle business folks offer wishes for the New Year
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
New Year's resolutions include some wishes that will help all of us
on the Big Island -- and throughout Hawai`i. We thought we should share
some of those with you.
Richard Henderson of Realty Investment and president of the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board said, "I would like to see the coming legislative session really address the issues that impede the growth of business and employment on the island: workers compensation, tort reform and tax relief."
Rep. Bob Herkes (D, Ka`u-Puna) is working on a package of bills for "economic revitalization for Kauai and Hawai`i because we've got the highest unemployment figures in the state. My New Year's resolution is to do everything I can to put people to work."
Nancy Cabral of Coldwell Banker Day Lum Properties resolves "to have people moving in to Lyman Gardens by Christmas 1997. This community, located on Wainaku Street adjacent to Pukihae Stream, will be the Big Island's first fee-simple condominium with special services and conveniences for our active seniors. They'll never have to move again."
John Davis, field representative for the Hawai`i Carpenters Union and newly
elected president of the Navy League Hilo Council, resolves to "carry on the
traditions of the past and expand ships' activities for the crews and our
young people. We hope to attract at least four Navy ships to Hilo in 1997.
The first will be the USS Lake Erie in February."
Bobby Jean Leithead-Todd, county council member, pledges "support for the lobbying efforts of the business community to expand University Park especially to construct the Business Incubator Center. I also will support the downtown business area efforts to bring more people downtown for shopping, fun and cultural events."
Alice Moon of the Hilo Downtown Improvement Association said she, "would love to see enough money raised for all three charities benefiting from the Mardi Gras New Year's Eve Ball to allow plenty of breathing room throughout the year. All the Mardi Gras events during the week of Feb. 1-8 will benefit the Domestic Violence Interagency Team, the Hawai`i Island Food Bank and the Hilo Downtown Improvement Association. Everybody should come. It's going to be great fun."
Diane Ley, staff for the Big Island Farm Bureaus, wants to "help the Big Island become greener with economically successful agricultural ventures."
Chef Mark Ellman vows to use "even more locally grown produce in our fresh, healthy foods at Maui Tacos."
Sheila Leyva manages the Hilo branch of Maui Tacos at Prince Kuhio Plaza near Sears. She is looking for a steady supply of cilantro, avocados (half ripe and half green in each delivery) and jalapeno peppers. Other peppers may also be of interest. The best times to contact her are at 8 a.m. or between 3:30 and 4 p.m. at 959-0359.
Ellman will open his sixth Maui Tacos at Dole Cannery Monday, Jan. 20.
The first four are on Maui: Lahaina Square, Napili Plaza, Kama`ole Beach
Center and Ka`ahumanu Center.
Lahaina is home to Ellman's Avalon, which specializes in fresh seafood, pasta and salads. Their signature dessert is Caramel Miranda.
Sotero Agoot of Kona Pacific Farmers Coop in Captain Cook vows "to increase quality and customer service both to my clients and farmers. We see an increased demand for quality, certified Kona coffee and need to increase production by improving cultural practices. We have the acreage. We just need to pay more attention to fertilization, pruning, things like that."
Kona coffee and macadamia nuts augmented the Hawai`i Tropical Flower Council's display at the 1996 FTD convention in Minneapolis. Just the thing to promote a trip to Hawai`i in 1997.
Eric Tanouye, of Green Point Nurseries and the Hawai`i Florists and Shippers Association, vows to "provide excellent tours for visiting conventioneers following the annual international FTD convention on Oahu in August."
The convention will be held at the Hilton in Waikiki August 9 to 12. Several
organizations are working on post-convention neighbor island farm tours.
For further information contact HFSA at 935-1484 or the Hawai`i Tropical
Flower Council at 961-5555.
Orchid grower Ray Greuel hopes all associations will do more to help our island's young people finance their college educations. The Hilo Orchid Society recently awarded two $500 scholarships to UH-Hilo seniors Diana Russell of Keaau and Timothy J. Lee of Volcano. Both are horticulture majors.
"This is twice what we've been able to do in previous years," said immediate past president Greuel. "Special fund raising efforts exceeded our goal making this possible."
The Hilo Orchid Society meets the second Friday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Komohana Agricultural Complex. Propagation and cultivation tips are offered on several varieties of orchids.
The organization sponsors the annual orchid show held during the International Festival of the Pacific in July and group tours to orchid shows in Kona and Honolulu are arranged.
New officers for the coming year are Tim Lloyd, president; Bill Bergstrom, vice president; Richard Smith, corresponding secretary and Eileen McKyton, treasurer.
For further information on programs and membership, contact Greuel at 982-6680.
Paula Helfrich, executive director of HIEDB and coffee farmer said, "As soon as our present inventory of projects is completed, I hope to get the Type B life for which I moved here."
John Tolmie of Tolmie Properties will "support the strategic plan of the University of Hawai`i, especially growing UH-Hilo to a student body of more than 5,000. I also wish a peaceful and healthy new year to all."
CTAHR handbook published
"This Hawai`i Product Went to Market: the basics of produce, floral, seafood, livestock and processed-product business in Hawai`i," a long-awaited handbook from UH-CTAHR, provides answers to many pressing questions asked by today's busy farmers and ranchers.
Forty-three short chapters cover topics ranging from pre-business planning to investing hard won earnings. It is the result of 46 authors work representing 26 private and public institutions. The publication was funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture with additional support from the Hawai`i Farm Bureau Federation and the Hawai`i Department of Agriculture.
Copies are available from the Hawai`i Farm Bureau Federation office, 2343 Rose Street, Honolulu, HI 96819, telephone (808) 848-2074. Bulk orders of more than 10 copies and Farm Bureau members have a price discount.
-0-
Focus on the Economy is a weekly column on science, technology, business
and agriculture provided by the Hawai`i Island Economic Development Board.
Readers with announcements or questions are invited to write to
K.T. Cannon-Eger, HCR 1, Box 5164, Keaau, HI 96749-9511 or
phone (808) 966-8565.
Or, try emailing K.T. Write here
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December 22, 1996
State economic leaders give high marks to Big Isle
By K. T. Cannon-Eger
Two visitors to the Big Island last week left with big smiles on their faces and a new appreciation for the wonders of Hawai`i County.
"So?," you're thinking, "There have got to be more than two."
The difference is these two can have a great impact on economic development here. That they will carry enthusiastic reactions back to Honolulu where they work for the state is great news indeed.
Lt. Gov. Mazie Hirono and Seiji Naya, director of the Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism, were given a grand tour of North Hilo and Hamakua. They visited farms, parks, stores, and possible sites for the plantation heritage corridor project.
"The governor has said the 21st century is the century of the Big Island," Hirono said to a meeting of the Hawai`i Economic Development Board (HIEDB). "The heritage corridor is a fantastic concept." This would involve developing tourism around the historic sugar cane plantations and encouraging visitors to spend more time in the area.
After hearing of HIEDB's high tech strategic plan, Hirono noted the participation of County planning director Donna Kiyosaki and Rep. Bob Herkes on the governor's science and technology task force.
"Quickly reading through this draft, I don't see anything in your plan that contradicts our task force work." Hirono also noted the good news for Big Island tourism in plans of Japan and Korean airlines.
"The American Embassy in Korea processes more visa applications than any other place," said Hirono. The governor is seeking a waiver for Koreans from the visa requirement to visit the United States. Other governors support this effort as we noted at the Western Governors Conference. Canada and Guam have already eliminated visa requirements for Koreans."
Naya also commented on plans for increased tourism from Asia and suggested more attention ought to be paid to Kyushu, a large island in the southern part of Japan. Seoul is closer than Narita airport so Korean Airlines will be very important to further developing the tourist trade from Japan.
"Today's world is very different than that of 30 or 40 years ago," Naya said. "There is a terrific future in health care."
He also urged that attention be paid to the needs of people nearing retirement age.
Regarding growth possibilities on the Big Island, Naya said, "You are the only island where agriculture is a force. On Oahu, agriculture accounts for only about two percent of the workforce. In Hawai`i County it's nearing nine percent employment on farms and ranches. Hotel employment is only 11 percent."
Naya expressed strong advocacy for moving "part of the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources" (CTAHR) to Hawai`i Island where the majority of the state's agricultural land is located. Regarding tourism, Naya "wished we could show some of our visitors the places we went yesterday. I had no idea. There is tremendous beauty here."
Also at the HIEDB meeting, it was announced that a video titled "Regions of Choice" was prepared through the sponsorship of GTE Hawaiian Tel and the participation of every economic development board in the state. "This is the first high tech marketing effort for the whole state," said HIEDB science and technology committee chairman John Tolmie.
"Regions of Choice" will premiere at the 19th annual Pacific Telecommunications Conference Sunday, Jan. 19, at 4 p.m. in the Sheraton Waikiki.
The four-day conference already has attracted participants from across the United States, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Italy, Germany, Norway, Switzerland, Denmark, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Cook Islands, Taiwan, Philippines, French Polynesia, Federated States of Micronesia, People's Republic of China, Malaysia, Northern Marianas Islands, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, Republic of Kiribati, India and Vanuatu.
Among topics to be considered at the conference are remote education, electronic money, telemedicine, rural networks, hand-held mobile communications, undersea cable systems, and hybrid services. For further information, contact Dick Barber at http://www.ptc.org on the World Wide Web. There is a conference button on the page. E-mail is info@ptc.org or telephone (808) 941-3789 ext. 117.
Coming events
Registrati