Coqui frogs
Coqui frogs
A money struggle for a community effort
The coqui frog coalition units in Waimea, North Kohala and elsewhere should not have to struggle for the money they need to be successful.
Evidently, many in our communities don’t understand what the ramifications will be if the frogs win: Property values will be reduced by hundreds of thousands of dollars, plus our peaceful nights will be forever gone.
The communities on the east and south side of this island have given up their quite nights and their property values to this intrusion. They gave up at the very beginning, thinking nothing could be done and therefore have accepted defeat.
Kohala on the other hand has chosen to fight. Since November 2003, the coalition in North Kohala has treated more than 200 sites, some multiple times, and kept Kohala free of any permanent infestation.
Initially, this effort was at least partially funded with county and state funds but no more. For the last five or six years, the Kohala coqui coalition has been funded only by donations from the community.
I wish to thank those few folks (I think Bob Martin was one of the first) who had the foresight to help Kohala start the fight against this threat.
Since we have a lot to lose, I would like to actively be involved.
I can either join Ralph Blancato and Hiram Hagio in the rain in the middle of the night trying to find the frogs or I can sleep soundly knowing that my monetary donation will fund their late night forays and keep us frog-free.
Remember, it costs nothing to report a frog, and it will be appreciated very much.
Tommy Tinker
Kapaau
Football
A simple explanation of game scheduling
In response to Mr. Charles Lipps’ comment has to why Kealakehe High School doesn’t play Konawaena High School in football, Konawaena High School has chosen not to play Kealakehe High School the past two seasons (2011 and 2012).
As the co-coordinator for the BIIF in football, Kealakehe has left open preseason dates for Konawaena High School to select and complete its football schedule.
Kealakehe High School is in its 12th season competing in varsity football at the Division I level.
Kealakehe High School has won nine BIIF Championships in 12 years and welcomes any team to add to its competitive schedule.
Mike A. Hernandez
Athletic Director
Kealakehe High School
Street artist
Voice of support
I have been a Reef Teach volunteer at Kahaluu Beach for years. As such, I have witnessed Joel Piller interact with those who walk by his art display.
He is not only friendly, but always offers his pieces free to people who admire them.
People are amazed and inspired by his generosity. He happily gives people his drawings. Some make a donation, many do not. All leave with a smile.
I have never seen his display even come close to interfering with the sidewalk or access to the women’s room.
Piller brings heartfelt art, joy, and aloha to our community and visitors alike.
Mr. Piller, along with his art, is an asset to our community.
Cindy Whitehawk
Kukuiopae