KIUC Currents September 2012

September 2012

Kaua‘i’s 9/11: 20 years after Iniki

Annual meeting report – Youth Tour wrap­up – Shearwaters update

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5727 Wailaau Road, Koloa Charming 3 bedroom home in a rural country setting just outside the charm of Koloa town. Beautiful hardwood floors. Wonderful fenced yard with lush landscaping.

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Table of contents Youth tour: Four Kaua‘i juniors visit Capitol . . . . . . 4

Simple pleasures

One student’s leadership lesson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Happy customer with new mountain apple plant.

Simple pleasures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Student Art Calendar Contest ready to go . . . . . . . 10

Every year, Arbor Day celebrates the simple act of planting a tree. Celebrate Arbor Day in Hawaii and “go green” with a plant from a two­day Arbor Day event: • Friday, November 2, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) Pua Loke Nursery at 4390­D Pua Loke St. in Lihue. For more information, please call 274.3433.

• Saturday, November 3, the Kaua`i Arbor Day Tree Giveaway will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kukui Grove in the parking lot behind KMart. For more information, please call 821.1490 or email kgunder@hawaii.edu.

Chairman’s message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Board actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

‘Significant progress’ marks annual meeting . . . . 12 Seabird protection a community effort . . . . . . . . . 14 Kaua’i’s 9/11: 20 years after Iniki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 What if another Iniki comes? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Lee Cataluna recalls pain of recovery . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Co­op Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Quick school days recipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Board sets smart meter deferral policy . . . . . . . . . 26 A picture’s worth: Wisteria Lane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Photo courtesy of Keren Gundersen.

Environmental Defense Fund on smart meters . . . 28 Kaua’i Lifeguard Association fundraiser . . . . . . . . . 30 Statement of operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Parting shot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

We want to hear from you We welcome your contributions to Currents. Please send us your questions and your comments about anything related to your cooperative. If it is on your mind, we want to hear from you.

We’re also looking for story ideas, especially from people who want to talk about their experiences with photovoltaics, electric cars, solar water heaters and other energy­saving projects. Share your tips for saving electricity and running your home or business more efficiently.

Are you a retiree from KIUC or Kaua‘i Electric? Share your stories about the work, the challenges and the lasting friendships from the old days.

And we’re always looking for new recipes.

Send your comments, suggestions and story ideas to currents@kiuc.coop.

And thank you for reading Currents.

EDITORS Jim Kelly, Maile Moriguchi, Shelley Paik, Pam Blair

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Anne Barnes, Lee Cataluna, Bryson Cayaban, Paul Daniels, Karissa Jonas, Jim Kelly, Maile Moriguchi, Shelley Paik, Teofilo “Phil” Tacbian Only active KIUC members will be mailed KIUC Currents. KIUC Currents can be found online at www.kiuc.coop under Member Information and Currents on the website.

KIUC is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

By Anne Barnes

KIUC KEIKI

Four Kaua‘i juniors gain a deeper understanding of America

And learn firsthand that people are more alike than not

Bryson Cayaban from Waimea High School, Josh Herr from Kaua‘i High School, Kierstyn Oshita from Kapaa High School and Taylor Trujillo from King Kamehameha High School learned a lot about America’s experiment in democracy this summer.

The four were among the record 1,560 high school students to visit Washington, D.C., as part of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Washington Youth Tour. Students learned about electric cooperatives, American history and the U.S. government. They also attended educational seminars, visited with the representatives from the U.S. House and Senate and saw the sights around the nation’s capital.

“Our trip to Washington, D.C., was such a valuable experience,” Herr said. “As our group traveled to the memorials, my love for the country was reinforced. We arrived at our first memorial, the Jefferson, right around sunset. The reflections of the sun made the tidal basin turn red and the pillars were shadowed into the dome from the sun setting. It was so humbling. It helped me deeply appreciate the work of our forefathers in creating this country.”

KIUC has participated in the Washington Youth Tour since 2003, and continues to send students each year as an investment in the long­term prosperity of the community. The leaders of tomorrow learn about and participate in the political process, and return to Kaua‘i as stronger leaders, with confidence they can make a difference.

The Hawaii/Kansas delegation takes a break at the National Archives.

Josh Herr, Kierstyn Oshita, Bryson Cayaban and Taylor Trujillo was meeting with Congresswoman Mazie Hirono. Congresswoman Hirono, a senatorial candidate, joined the group for breakfast and a talk on Capitol Hill.

SEPTEMBER 2012

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In joining young people from Kansas, this year’s group faced a number of challenges: weather extremes, going from the lowest high temperatures ever recorded to more than 100 degrees in Washington, D.C.; sleep deprivation; changes in the itinerary (motorcades are a learning experience); and general sensory overload.

The union between Hawai‘i and Kansas may seem strange, but it has been a successful relationship since KIUC began the program. “As a new Youth Tour director in 2002, I needed to seek out a state willing to have us join them,” said Anne Barnes. “It turns out EVERY state wanted to hyphenate their tours with ’Hawai‘i.’ We chose Kansas because, in the end, they were famous for the most exciting itinerary. I decided if we were going to travel all that distance, we had better see everything.”

The initial meeting between the students from different cultures typically results in lots of questions related to stereotypes about the islands.

“I’ll never forget all of the questions a few of my Kansan friends asked me when we first met in Topeka,” said Oshita. “Do you dance hula? What kind of wild animals do you have? Do you guys seriously wear those aloha shirts and whatnot?’

So to answer their questions, I sat down with them on our first night together, and for well over Bucket truck rides at Kaw Valley Electric in Topeka.

6 KIUC CURRENTS

an hour, I explained to them what Kaua’i was really like. They thought I was joking when I told them about the wild chickens; many of them are farmers and so are familiar with chickens, just not loose. We talked about local issues and I shared Kaua‘i’s ban on plastic bags. When they realized I wasn’t kidding, they busted out laughing.

“But those Kansan delegates were amazing people. We had so much in common. It’s pretty interesting, actually. Although they’re thousands of miles away, they still face the same issues we do, whether it’s education, higher gas prices or economic downfall. This helped me realize that even though it may seem as if each state is divided, we all still face the same issues together as one nation, regardless of where you come from.”

After nine years of taking high school delegations to Washington, D.C., the program is a rousing success that will continue for years to come.

KIUC will sponsor four Kaua‘i juniors to the 2013 Washington Youth Tour June 11­21. To learn how you can qualify for this opportunity to explore our nation’s capital, learn about electric cooperatives and see your government in action with more than 1,500 students from across the United States, talk to your counselor, or call KIUC’s Anne Barnes at 246.4383.

The delegation with a likeness of President Lincoln at Madame Tousaud’s Wax Museum.

The delegation with KIUC chaparone Anne Barnes, pose in front of the White House.

It is a great night at Nationals Park. Everyone on the tour is officially a Nats fan!

SEPTEMBER 2012 7

By Bryson Cayaban

Building the courage within

As the Youth Leadership Council representative for Hawai‘i, Bryson Cayaban continues to gather life lessons 8 KIUC CURRENTS

Silence. It was completely silent. Not a word from anyone. We were just sitting there in the dark room, waiting and wondering what’s going to happen next. My group leader then said, “We want you think of a word that describes you.”

At that moment, I just knew which word to pick.

It’s a word that is hardly used. The meaning is used in different ways, but it goes a long way. I take it to heart when I say “courage.”

Courage has many definitions to it. Courage comes from the heart. You stand for what you believe in, take the first step and go for your goal.

When we were all ready, we each took turns describing our word. I was anxious and ready to tell everyone my word with full passion. This is what I said. “My word is courage. I chose courage for many reasons. To me, it means trying new things, striving for great opportunities, always having confidence and gaining positive excellence!”

We each broke a glow stick to light up the dark room. It represented a promise that we would try to live by that principle throughout our lives.

I had a thought, in the back of my mind. To be honest, I was afraid. I was afraid of trying new things, going to new places and basically experiencing what the world has to offer. I knew I had to face the challenge. That following morning, I told myself “I must have courage within me.”

From that moment on, I took the courage to apply myself in everything I did. I accomplished some amazing goals that I would never have thought before! Not to brag or anything. I had a lot of leadership opportunities in my school, throughout my island and most of all on the state level. I got super involved on the Hawai‘i State Conference Council and going to the state capitol was like home to me. I felt really comfortable there. Matter of fact, sometimes I pretend I am a current state representative, too! OK, I think now I’m just being a little too conceited.

I continued to prosper. I joined many organizations that have truly inspired me to keep going, never giving up and always having the courage within me. I motivated others to make a difference, whether it was in the community or at school. I was at the top of my game of sticking with my goals: always lending a helping hand, and just being a positive role model as a young leader in my community.

I reached a point, though, where I felt too comfortable, and I was looking for new challenges where I could continue to represent my community and school. Well it happened! I attained an honorable opportunity and that was to be a student delegate in the Hawai‘i State Conference Council.

Suddenly, a different feeling struck me. At that point, I started to feel no courage within me. I had this anxious feeling that struck me. Maybe it was boredom. It couldn’t be. I don’t get bored easily.

This was really unlike me. I needed action.

I told myself that I wanted to strive for more and I wanted to keep running and take on more challenges. I really didn’t want to lose that spark of “having the courage within me.” I can’t stop now because “courage” is the “c” that stands for confidence in myself and courage ends in “e” for my positive excellence to keep going and never giving up.

In other words, we all must persevere with confidence and excellence to achieve in life.

A fateful day came and I stumbled upon a youth tour brochure. It was no ordinary brochure. It really caught my eye. Most importantly, a statement that I read really moved me. This is what it said: “Long­term prosperity for the leaders of tomorrow to learn, become stronger, with confidence that they can make a difference.”

Every year I would read about high school juniors heading to Washington, D.C., for an opportunity to become great young leaders of America. Before I knew it, I was at the airport heading to D.C. I stand here before you today as a witness of how this one trip has truly inspired me, motivated me, but most of all, I started to have “courage” within me once again.

Youth tour has changed my frame of mind for good. It was like a whole new world—a world ready to see through my eyes. The place was breathtaking, overwhelming. It gave me goose bumps to be standing in our nation’s great capital.

I cherished every moment of my time in D.C. They said it’d be the trip of a lifetime. They were absolutely right.! The feeling inside me was amazing! My search of finding a true inspiration, finding a new opportunity, has finally been unlocked. All of the wonders I had drawn have disappeared. And all this difference, all this change, starts to grow on us, and most especially it gave me strength to have courage within me.

The people I met along the way to D.C. were incredible. Everyone had a unique personality, style, character that made each person important, no matter where they are from. That’s what I learned.

These people together means ‘ohana, and this truly makes our nation a great nation to live in. We are the ‘ohana, touring the monuments, memorials, museums and much more. Each building, sculpture and artifact has its own story behind it. Their history defines us, our nation as ONE. Being an ocean away from our nation’s capital sets us far apart both physically and mentally from our own government. We read about our Constitution and the Declaration of Independence in textbooks, and on the Internet countless times, and lose their true meaning of what it represents. Historical events such as Independence Day and the Revolutionary War were not so significant to me.

Youth tour changed my perspective drastically.

It was like a dream becoming reality—standing so many feet away from our Constitution, the framework of our government. I never would have imagined seeing the Declaration of Independence before my eyes.

Fourth of July this year, I had the privilege of putting up flags around Waimea and Kekaha with my fellow JROTC cadets. As we finished putting up the last flags, I had a flashback of when I had the greatest honor of assisting in putting up the U.S storm flag at Fort McHenry, the very place where it inspired our national anthem to be written. I felt honored, full of gratitude, respect and, most of all, I finally built the courage within me once again.

At the end of the trip, I finally found the true meaning of youth tour. It’s the passion to keep learning, always keep striving for something even better and to work together as one. No matter what part of our nation you are from—whether you are riding a tractor on a farm in Kansas, surfing the waves in Hawai‘i, anything and everything in between—we are from the same country, the same nation, united under the same Constitution and working together as one to always defend what’s rightfully ours: freedom!

I would like to thank Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative, NRECA and all the red shirts of Youth Leadership Council for allowing me to experience an amazing opportunity like this. I’ve had many amazing leadership opportunities, but this by far was the most amazing experience I have ever had!

It’s a true honor to be standing here today.

Remember the glow stick I told in my story. I hold in my hand the actual glow stick that represents my promise, that I would live by my principle throughout my life.

Now, ladies and gentlemen, I challenge you, as I get back to my original point: building the courage within. Think to yourself: Do you have the courage within you?

SEPTEMBER 2012

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Encouraging a lifelong love of art KIUC’s 2013 Calendar of Student Art is accepting submissions We are waiting for your entries! KIUC’s 10th Annual Calendar of Student Art Contest is ready to go. We’re excited to see new artwork from Kaua‘i students.

The program was designed in 2003 to inspire and promote young artists on the island. Our 2012 contest will continue to celebrate the arts and showcase each grade level’s student talent. It is our hope participation in the contest will play a part in encouraging a lifelong love of art.

As in previous years, kindergartners will design the cover, first graders will depict January, second graders are assigned February and so on through December with 12th graders.

Who can enter: Any Kaua‘i student attending any public or private school or schooled at home who is in kindergarten through grade 12.

• Artwork can be submitted by teachers, students, parents, guardians or others as a group or class project.

• Students may enter as often as they wish.

How the contest works: Match the grade the student is in during the 2012-2013 school year to the corresponding month to determine the theme for each grade. Students must draw or paint a picture to illustrate their assigned month. Kindergarten students will draw the cover art. There is no theme for kindergartners; any subject, season, event, etc., is acceptable.

1st grade - January 5th grade – May 9th grade – September

2nd grade - February 6th grade – June 10th grade – October

3rd grade - March 7th grade – July 11th grade – November

4th grade - April 8th grade – August 12th grade - December

• Artwork will be judged on artistic merit, creativity and how well the assigned month is depicted. Acceptable artwork includes still life, landscapes, portraits, etc., as long as the monthly theme is somehow portrayed.

• All elements of the artwork (lines, paint, color, shapes, shading, highlights, etc.) must be the work of the student whose name appears on the back of the artwork.

• No tracing please.

• All artwork must be original and not be copied from other copyrighted sources without substantial creative changes; renderings or other paintings or published photographs that are deemed to be too exact to the source will be disqualified.

How to submit the artwork: In an attempt to return original artwork to each artist, we are trying something new this year. Each school will be given a portfolio. Inside the portfolio will be information stickers. For artwork to qualify, these information stickers must be affixed to the lower right corner of each submission. If you are an individual or a home-schooled artist, please call 246.4383 for stickers, or pick them up at KIUC’s Līhu‘e office. Information on each entry must be legible, and group submissions must be sorted by grade.

Artwork created digitally may be entered as long as rules on originality and copyrighted sources are followed. Resolution must be at least 300 dpi at 8x10 inches. Please contact contest officials for file format requirements and other details for digital submissions.

The name and school of each winning student will be printed in the calendar along with the student’s photograph. Photos of winning students will be requested after the winners are announced.

We prefer drawings be no larger than 11x14 inches and no smaller than 8x10 inches. Paintings or canvasses can be larger. Drawings on white or light-colored paper reproduce best. Do not use ruled paper.

• Most any medium is acceptable as long as the art is relatively flat. Charcoal and pastel darlings should be sprayed with a fixative. Do not use glitter, sand, liquids or other elements that can flake off or otherwise damage the works of other students.

• Artwork in the horizontal or landscape position best fits the calendar’s format.

• Do not mount, mat, laminate or frame artwork.

• Do not fold or crease artwork.

Judging and prizes: • A panel of judges will pick winners • Each calendar winner will receive $100.

• Artwork may be chosen as honorable mentions and will be printed in a special section of the calendar. Honorable mentions will receive $50.

• An overall “Artist of the Year” will be selected. The Artist of the Year will receive an additional $100 and be featured in KIUC Currents magazine.

• All reproduction rights become the property of KIUC. • KIUC will feature winning artwork in a setting to be determined.

• Every attempt will be made to make artwork ready for pick-up following the contest.

Deadline: The deadline is Friday, October 12, 2012. All entries must be received by 4 p.m. at the KIUC office, 4463 Pahe‘e St., Līhu‘e.

For more information, please contact Anne Barnes at 246.4383, or via email at abarnes@kiuc.coop.

KIUC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

A Message from the chairman This month’s issue of Currents recalls the devastation of Hurricane Iniki in 1992. Those of us who were here can remember the horror of seeing our neighborhoods destroyed, and then working through the long recovery that followed. We have been blessed that we have been spared for the last 20 years and haven’t had to endure another hurricane.

One of the benefits of your cooperative is the Co­op Connection Card available to members. It is a valuable asset. Not only can you get discounts from pharmacies and participating businesses on Kaua‘i, you can go online and order from many other businesses at a discount. If you don’t have a card you can get it at our main office in Lihue. Take advantage of this value­added service.

On July 17, our treasurer and finance and audit committee chairman, Allan Smith, attended a meeting of the Agribusiness Development Corporation. This organization establishes private/public partnerships on state­controlled agricultural lands. On Kaua‘i, the ADC is in discussion with the County of Kaua‘i on the landfill and resource recovery center. Some of KIUC’s plans for renewable energy involve state lands and we continue to foster good working relationships with state agencies, including the ADC. As we look to the future, your board of directors remains focused on our goals to build renewable projects that use water, the sun and biomass to produce electrical energy. Those plans require us to be productive partners with community groups, businesses and government agencies. Working together, we hope to reach our goals sooner than planned.

Aloha to all of you, our members.

Teofilo “Phil” Tacbian, Chairman Board of Directors

Board actions Below is a summary of some of the actions taken by the KIUC board in June and July 2012.

Agendas and minutes of board meetings are available at kiuc.coop.

June 26 meeting Board unanimously approved Resolution 7­12 formally adopting KIUC’s policy allowing customers to defer installation of a smart meter.

Board voted unanimously that staff members who serve on board committees are not eligible to vote.

Board voted unanimously to clarify Board Policy 27 requiring directors to specify in public statements that they are speaking as individuals and not speaking for the board or cooperative.

Board unanimously adopted Board Policy 30 on electric rates and design “that will allow KIUC to accomplish its strategic plan while providing electricity that is reliable, considerate of the environment and that will continue to build and maintain the cooperative’s financial strength and integrity at the lowest reasonable cost to its members/consumers.”

Board unanimously voted to appoint Carrice Caspillo to a three­year term as a community member on the KIUC Charitable Foundation board.

July 24 meeting Board unanimously approved spending $753,000 to replace superheater tubes at steam plant at Port Allen, shifting money from projects in current capital budget.

Voted 5­4 to institute pre­meeting briefings before monthly board meetings and to request that committee chairpersons schedule meetings at least four months in advance. In favor: Yukimura, Bain, Iha, Murashige, Tacbian. Opposed: Smith, TenBruggencate, Baldwin, Gegen.

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By Maile Moriguchi

2012 KIUC annual meeting Board, CEO describe ‘very productive’ year More than 150 members of Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative gathered July 26 for the annual membership meeting.

The meeting, held for the first time in the theater at Kaua‘i Community College, highlighted some of KIUC’s accomplishments during its 10th year as a cooperative.

Board Chairman Teofilo “Phil” Tacbian summarized what he described as “significant progress” in KIUC’s goal of generating 50 percent of the island’s energy needs through renewable resources.

Among the highlights: • A 6­megawatt photovoltaic system under construction by Alexander & Baldwin at Port Allen.

• A new battery storage system installed at Koloa, with a second system to be built at Port Allen later this year.

• Construction project awarded for a 12­MW photovoltaic system in Anahola, with work to be completed next year.

• Smart grid project ahead of schedule.

• $3.5 million project to lower utility poles and bury lines near Kealia Beach to help remove obstacles encountered by native seabirds nearly completed.

• Planning continues on a $90­million biomass project in Koloa to be built by private developers to generate 6.7 MW. 12 KIUC CURRENTS

Treasurer Allan Smith presented an overview of KIUC’s finances, noting that in 10 years the members’ equity has risen from zero to 23 percent, a stake now worth about $70 million.

Nearly $1 million in patronage capital was returned to the members in July, Smith said, noting that during the past 10 years the cooperative has returned $25 million to its members in the form of patronage capital and billing credits.

Vice Chairman Jan TenBruggencate, chairman of the Government Relations/Legislative Affairs Committee, described how KIUC worked with the island’s legislative delegation to continue a tax break on the naptha used as fuel in power plants.

The tax break saves KIUC customers $5 million a year, or about $150 apiece, he said.

Secretary David Iha and Director Pat Gegen reported on the work of the Strategic Planning Committee, reviewing KIUC’s work in renewable energy and efficiency programs: • Through 2011, KIUC has given out more than 102,000 compact fluorescent bulbs, representing nearly $9 million in savings to customers who use the bulbs.

• More than 200 photovoltaic units were installed on Kaua‘i last year, bringing the total number of PV units installed to 616, producing nearly 5 MW during daylight hours, Gegen said.

Director Carol Bain, chairwoman of the Member Relations Committee, and Director Karen Baldwin talked about KIUC’s work for its members.

Bain said the KIUC call center received 44,238 calls in 2011, up nearly 20 percent from 2010.

That is an average of about 180 calls a day.

“We are always looking at ways we can do better and we want to hear from our members,” she said, pointing out the cooperative’s increasing use of social media tools.

Baldwin said KIUC is reviewing all of the ways it communicates with members, including the content of KIUC Currents magazine, with an eye toward finding more ways to include contributions from members and to showcase ideas and issues related to renewable energy, conservation and power generation.

Director Peter Yukimura, chairman of the Policy Committee, noted three significant policies recommended by the committee and enacted by the board in 2011: • Safeguarding data collected by smart meters to ensure all customer information is kept secure and confidential.

• Establishing policy guidelines for Sharing of Aloha and other charitable giving by KIUC. • Setting rules for the process of initiating and verifying member petitions.

Director Calvin Murashige of the International Committee described how KIUC—with the help of Waimea Canyon School, Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School, Kapaa Middle School and the Filipino Chamber of Commerce—sent 90 boxes of books to the Philippines as part of a book drive.

President and CEO David Bissell described the year as “very productive,” with important progress made on renewable energy projects and the smart grid initiative.

“If all of these solar projects we’re talking about are built, Kaua‘i will have 32 megawatts of solar energy available, roughly half of our daytime load,” Bissell said. “We will also have more than 10 megawatts of battery storage to help stabilize our island grid as more renewable generation comes on line.

“Talking about hydropower, we’ve completed preliminary feasibility studies of five sites that can draw from Kaua‘i’s abundant water resources. We anticipate going into the community in small groups later this year to show people our plans and get their feedback and suggestions on how best to proceed, and we hope to move some of those projects into the permitting phase by the end of this year or early in 2013.”

He commended the work of the cooperative’s 160 employees for their dedication and professionalism 365 days a year.

“To these people it’s not just a job, it’s a commitment and a way of life,” he said.

Bissell took questions for about 45 minutes from audience members.

After the meeting was adjourned, members each received a 5­pound bag of rice, a tote bag, a bento and an annual report.

The annual report, “On the Road to Renewables,” is available online at kiuc.coop and at the KIUC office.

SEPTEMBER 2012

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By Anne Barnes

KIUC IN THE COMMUNITY

Seabird protection a team effort

Kaua’i's native Newell’s shearwater and the less common Hawaiian petrel and Band­rumped storm petrel all spend most of their lives at sea, but each year several return to Kaua‘i’s steep­sloped interior to breed in the spring and summer.

Kaua‘i residents know a fledgling’s initial flight to sea can be perilous. As each year’s fledgling birds make their maiden flight to sea, many are so attracted to bright lights they often fly in circles around them until they are exhausted and land or, in some cases, collide with obstacles such as buildings. Once grounded, these seabirds have extreme difficulty regaining flight from flat ground. Hence, without rescue, they are nearly certain to die due to attack by predators (such as dogs and cats), being run over by cars, or from dehydration or starvation.

Each fall the call goes out to Kaua‘i residents to watch for and retrieve downed seabirds, which are then collected by the Kaua‘i Humane Society’s Save Our Shearwaters (SOS) program. Following a prompt evaluation, and in some cases some care and feeding, nearly all seabirds handled by SOS are released back to the wild.

Even with these efforts, the populations of Kaua‘i’s protected and endangered seabirds appear to be steadily declining. Scientists believe the greatest threats to these species are loss of suitable breeding habitat and destruction by alien predators such as rats and cats in the breeding colonies that remain. But mankind’s lights and structures also can have an adverse effect.

Reducing Light Attraction

KIUC continues to partner with the Kaua‘i Humane Society to implement seabird conservation measures while collaborating with wildlife agencies on long­term solutions 14 KIUC CURRENTS

By eliminating stray light through its lamp replacement program completed in 2004, KIUC has greatly reduced the number of young birds that get confused and fall rather than continue out to sea. You can help reduce light attraction by: • Turning off unnecessary outdoor lights.

• Replacing fixtures that scatter light in all directions—such as globe and carriage lights—with directional fixtures that point down and away from the beach.

• Shielding the light source. Materials such as aluminum flashing can be used to direct light where it is needed and keep it off the beach.

• Replacing white incandescent, fluorescent and high­intensity lighting with a 40­watt or less yellow bug light.

• If you have large windows, draw drapes at night to keep interior lights from attracting the birds.

• If you live near a county ballpark, check your neighborhood for grounded seabirds. If the park is not in use, but the lights are still on, turn off the lights.

Rescuing Seabirds To prepare for seabird recovery, please follow these recommendations: • Keep an old towel and a ventilated cardboard box, pet carrier or other non­airtight container in your car. If you are on foot, just the towel will do.

• If you find a downed bird, gently pick it up from behind with the towel, carefully covering its head and wrapping the material completely around its back and wings. Place it in a container as soon as possible. Be aware of the shearwaters’ long, pointed bill. Don’t be worried too much because the birds are usually docile, but wrapping the bird in a towel will protect you and the bird.

• Keep the bird covered and in a quiet, shaded location. Do not feed, water or handle it.

• Take the recovered bird to the nearest shearwater aid station right away (see the box at right to locate the aid station nearest you).

• Do not attempt to release the bird yourself. It may have internal injuries or be too tired or weak to survive. Throwing the bird into the air could cause more injury. Let the trained SOS program staff examine the bird and decide when, where and how to let it go.

• On the board provided at the aid station, write information about where you found the bird.

The best information would be a street address or street intersection, the number of a nearby utility pole or a highway mile marker.

If you are in a hurry, you can leave your telephone number so staff can call you to get additional information about the bird you found.

SOS Aid Station Locations West Waimea Fire Station Hanapēpē Fire Station Kalaheo Fire Station

South Kōloa Fire Station

Central­East Kaua’i Humane Society Līhu’e Fire Station Kapa’a Fire Station Kaiākea Fire Station

North Kilauea Medical Group Hanalei Fire Station Hanalei Liquor Store

For more information, contact the Kaua‘i Humane Society at 635.5177 or 632.0610 Extension 190.

The Save Our Shearwaters program is made possible by the continuing partnership of the following:

KAUA‘I VETERINARY CLINIC SEPTEMBER 2012

15

By Shelley Paik and Jim Kelly

Kauai’s 9/11 20 years after Iniki, the healing continues On September 11, 1992, Hurricane Iniki descended upon Kaua‘i, devastating the island and leaving scars that remain 20 years later.

With winds raging and gusts up to 174 mph, it was the most powerful hurricane to hit Hawai`i in recorded history. Six deaths were attributed to the storm, and damage totaled $1.8 billion.

More than 5,000 homes were destroyed or severely damaged and hundreds of businesses closed, never to reopen. Some hotels and condominiums, especially on the hard­hit South Shore, remained shuttered for years. The hulking wreck of the famous Coco Palms hotel at Wailua remains the most visible storm casualty, but even the natural environment hasn’t fully healed.

The tree tunnel on the road to Koloa, stripped to bare branches by the storm, has never looked quite the same, just as the Fern Grotto on the Wailua River hasn’t regained its pre­Iniki lushness.

The beaches and surf spots along the South Shore were forever rearranged by powerful storm surges.

16 KIUC CURRENTS

But the stories told about Iniki today aren’t about damage and loss. Most recollections are about how families, neighbors and co­workers joined together to make the best of an overwhelming situation, and how the hard work and ingenuity of Kaua‘i’s people helped to hasten the island’s recovery.

“For many years, people talked in terms of ‘before Iniki’ and ‘after Iniki,’” said Ed Nakaya, key accounts manager at KIUC. “When old­timers from Kaua‘i say ‘9/11,’ it isn’t what happened at the World Trade Center, it’s what happened here on Kaua‘i.”

For Allan Smith, a member of the KIUC board of directors who was chief operating officer of Grove Farm in 1992, one of the most enduring memories is how calmly residents coped with the devastation. At Kukui Grove, Grove Farm had set up a big diesel generator to provide power to the old Star Market. Hundreds of people lined up to buy what remaining supplies were available.

Winds snapped hundreds of wooden poles.

“People just waited patiently in a line, nobody pushing or trying to get ahead,” he recalled.

Skeleton crews of employees at hotels, sugar plantations, utilities and government agencies stayed on the job through the worst of the storm.

Among them were employees of Kaua‘i Electric, the predecessor of KIUC. Its parent company, Citizens Utilities, brought in more than 300 workers from its mainland utilities after the storm.

And in the following days, hundreds more utility workers from neighboring islands and California were brought to Kaua‘i via military transport planes, along with their trucks and heavy equipment.

Barbara Nagamine, KIUC’s member services manager, started at Kaua‘i Electric a few months before Iniki. She said the emphasis after the storm was supporting the 500­plus workers on the line crews. Some days that meant managers and office workers would cook and deliver meals out to the field. Some even washed the line crews’ clothes.

Workers gathered at Port Allen for their daily assignments.

Utility trucks were shipped from California, Arizona and across Hawaii.

SEPTEMBER 2012

17

Walls of the steam plant at Port Allen were blown off.

“It was a total feeling of ‘ohana,” Nagamine said.

“It was everybody pulling together, doing what they needed to do.”

Mike Yamane, the chief operating officer of KIUC, was in his third year as an engineer at Kaua‘i Electric in 1992. He was put to work on a crew moving broken poles, lines and transformers off the roads.

“Those first few weeks it was just clearing all the debris, not power restoration at all,” Yamane said.

Production staff engineer Shawn deMille was among the workers at the Port Allen Generating Station at the time of Iniki. He lived in Kalaheo and made six trips the night of September 10 between the plant and his home, bringing furniture and other valuables to the plant for safekeeping. His home was destroyed. He sent his family to O`ahu to live with relatives for three months so his daughter could go to school.

During the storm, 10 employees’ families took shelter in what is known as the SWD Building at Port Allen, named for the four combustion generators inside. The windows were all closed. At one point during the storm, workers used a forklift to hold shut the building’s large overhead door as 18 KIUC CURRENTS

100­mph winds threatened to blow it apart—a heroic effort that was captured on videotape by another worker.

As the eye of the storm passed over Kaua‘i, deMille went to the warehouse to collect plastic sheeting to cover exposed electrical wiring before the storm changed directions and returned for round two. The warehouse was a mess of tangled equipment and broken steel; the roof had blown away.

Iniki toppled hundreds of utility poles and snapped miles of power transmission lines. While the job of bringing the island’s big power plants back online was relatively easy, there was no way to move the electricity to customers.

For a month following the hurricane, workers gathered at Port Allen every morning for their daily assignments. At 4 p.m., supervisors would review the work progress and make plans for the next day.

A few customers had power back within two weeks, but a month after the hurricane hit, half the island was still without power. Even the most good­natured residents were losing patience.

Ed Nakaya was among the Kaua‘i Electric employees assigned to give regular updates to the public. He participated in a call­in show, “Power Talk,” on KUAI radio. Most of the talk focused on the progress of power restoration. Some callers were angry.

“People were frustrated, but it wasn’t just about the power,” Nakaya said. “It was life in general, dealing with insurance adjusters, contractors—all that kind of stuff.”

On November 24, power was restored to Kalihiwai—the last area without electricity. But it took years for a true feeling of normalcy to return.

With improved technology and significant upgrades to Kaua‘i’s power distribution system during the past 20 years, as well as improvements in weather forecasting and disaster preparedness, experts say they believe Kaua‘i could recover more quickly from a major hurricane than it did in 1992.

But no one wants to put that theory to the test.

By Maile Moriguchi

Hurricanes always a threat, but defenses stronger today Hurricane Iniki brought many changes to Kaua‘i, including improvements to the island’s roads, buildings and utility infrastructure.

So how would the impact on Kaua‘i’s power grid be different if a Category 4 storm hit in 2012?

KIUC is a dramatically different company than the Kaua‘i Electric of 1992. In 20 years, the utility has made hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of improvements to its generation, transmission and distribution systems, its facilities and its disaster planning.

Even KIUC’s ownership structure—changing from an investor­owned utility to a member­ owned cooperative—would aid in the recovery from a disaster.

Here are some specifics: • Hundreds of wooden poles and metal lattice towers have been replaced with heavy steel poles rated to withstand the wind forces exerted by even the most destructive hurricanes. Transmission lines might fall, but if the poles are standing they can be reattached more quickly.

• The Kapaia Power Plant, opened in 2002, was built to withstand hurricane­force winds and could be operated separately from the Port Allen Generating Station if that plant was damaged.

• Two hydroelectric plants KIUC took over from the old Līhu‘e plantation would provide a separate source of power if the other plants were damaged.

• Roofs and walls at Port Allen were rebuilt and reinforced after Iniki.

• KIUC’s headquarters at Hana Kukui was built to withstand hurricane­force winds and would serve as the utility’s command center in the event of a disaster. In 1992, the utility’s offices were damaged and staff was scattered between Port Allen and temporary offices in Līhu‘e.

• KIUC is required by state law to update its disaster recovery plan annually. The plan is a detailed document that provides clear, precise

direction to every department and is the basis for drills simulating various types of emergencies.

• Dramatic changes in information technology, including introduction of the “smart grid,” would enable engineers to check the status of each circuit from the command center and even from the field, dispatching crews quickly to trouble spots. Wireless communication would make it easier for constantly updated information to reach customers and for KIUC workers to talk to each other.

• KIUC’s status as a cooperative would make it eligible to recover 75 percent of its cleanup and repair costs from the federal government.

Kaua‘i Electric customers were solely responsible for paying the utility’s $60 million Iniki repair bill. Also, KIUC can tap a $60 million disaster line of credit from the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation in the event of a declared disaster.

• KIUC has signed mutual assistance agreements with some of the other 900 electrical cooperatives in the United States, ensuring their help in the event of an emergency, as well as pledging KIUC’s assistance to other cooperatives.

SEPTEMBER 2012

19

Survival was only the first chapter in long Iniki drama

By Lee Cataluna Many of us have been through major storms in our lives—usually figurative storms rather than literal hurricanes—but while a personal crisis is something one goes through alone or with family, Iniki was something the entire island experienced together.

The night before, the weather man was still predicting the storm to just skirt past Kaua‘i. Early the next morning, when the civil defense sirens sounded, that was the first indication the situation had changed and gotten much, much worse.

Two other moments drove home the point of what was heading our way: The police ordered everyone off the roads, and the power started going off.

That’s when things got bad.

The concept of being “OK” was relative. As I cowered under a desk through the long hours when the storm bore down on our island, I remember thinking that if we lived through the day, I would never ask for anything else as long as I lived.

That promise didn’t hold long.

After the giddiness of survival wore off, the reality of rebuilding all that was lost—and living without the basic comforts of modern life while trying to rebuild—became more difficult than weathering the storm. It went on for weeks, months.

Being OK first meant living through the storm unharmed.

Afterwards, it got complicated. Being OK meant being able to navigate complicated insurance claims, to cook rice on a kerosene burner or to get to Tire Warehouse on wheels studded with the nails that Iniki blew loose.

At KONG radio, I was one of the many people who orbited Ron Wiley, providing him with information and updates. Sometimes, it was a press release from

Hurricane Survival Kit

In the event of a long-term storm or power outage, everyone must take personal responsibility and have an action plan. To better cope without electricity, make sure your home and office are equipped with power outage kits. Include the following:

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Portable radio Extra batteries Flashlight(s) and candles Manual can opener First aid kit, special medications and an extra pair of eyeglasses, if you wear them

■ Individuals with special needs should plan ahead for their appropriate medical conditions

■ Five-day supply of non-perishable, ready-to-eat food; an ice chest and blueice packs

■ Containers of water (minimum 2 quarts per person per day)

■ Sleeping bags or blankets ■ Change of clothing for each family member

■ ■ ■ ■

Matches or lighter Camp stove, lantern and fuel Masking tape for windows Personal hygiene, sanitary supplies, diapers

■ Bleach ■ Plastic sheeting and garbage bags

Check the condition of emergency equipment, such as flashlights and battery-powered radios. Each member of the family should know who to contact and where to meet in the event of an emergency.

20 KIUC CURRENTS

government or recovery officials. Many times— especially in those first few days—it was a message scrawled on a piece of paper.

Listeners made their way to KONG’s studio to get word out to their families. There were no phones.

The radio station was the only way to let relatives on the other side of the island know they were OK. Everyday things like ice cubes suddenly became rare and precious. When McDonald’s re­opened in Līhu`e, there was a line down the road to get food that didn’t taste like hurricane rations or camp stove beef stew. Fast food tasted like civilization and ordinary life.

I remember the day in late October when we got the electricity back at our house. It was my birthday, and I got my wish. The Kaua‘i Electric man rapped on the side of the house to let me know it was done. I ran out to the garage to say thank you, but he was already in his truck and off to the next house. There was so much work to do. For some reason, I remember that he had a purple lollipop in his mouth.

It was an odd little detail somehow attached to that moment.

Even after the power was back on, I walked into dark rooms and forgot to flip the light switch. I had lost the habit. I got used to fumbling around in the dark.

Some things never were rebuilt after Iniki. Some people left the island and never came back. Some places, though still lovely, were forever changed.

But for most of us, the moment those grueling weeks and months finally came to an end—when the bare “surviving” days became forward­focused rebuilding—that was when the lights really came back on.

Lee Cataluna is a novelist, playwright and longtime newspaper columnist who worked at KONG radio during Hurricane Iniki. She teaches at ‘Iolani School in Honolulu.

STOP FLU AT SCHOOL CONSENT FORM DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 7, 2012 Influenza (flu) vaccination will be offered by the Department of Health during its annual school-located flu vaccination program for kindergarten through eighth-grade students attending participating schools statewide. Consent forms and additional information about the Stop Flu at School program will be distributed through participating schools in August.

Complete the appropriate consent form (nasal spray or shot), sign, date, and return the consent form to your child’s teacher by September 7, 2012.

For more information, visit http://flu.hawaii.gov/sfas.html or call 2-1-1.

Community Advertisement

SEPTEMBER 2012

21

By Anne Barnes

K I U C ’ S VA LU E - A D D E D S E R V I C E S

Shout out to all businesses on Kaua‘i!

KIUC is reintroducing its Co­op Connections program, which benefits cooperative members by offering valuable discounts from participating businesses and increases customer visits at local businesses.

• Co­op Connections Cards are available to all members at KIUC’s Līhu‘e office, but we will include a card and key fobs in a future issue of KIUC Currents.

• This program gives participating businesses exposure to our 24,000 members and many visitors served by our fellow Touchstone Energy cooperatives.

• A list of participating businesses will be provided to KIUC members.

These businesses will be posted on the web at www.connections.coop.

• Co­op members are encouraged to shop at participating businesses through promotions in KIUC Currents and elsewhere.

• By using your Co­op Connections Card you will be able to receive a discount of 10 percent to 85 percent on prescription drugs at more than 60,000 national, regional and local pharmacies.

• The card features KIUC’s important contact information and website address.

• Traveling? Your Co­op Connections Card can be used at participating businesses across America. Just look for the window or cash register Co­op Connections sticker for discounts.

22 KIUC CURRENTS

In conjunction with other Touchstone Energy cooperatives around the country, KIUC has developed the Co­op Connections Card program to deliver more value to members and promote participating businesses.

Originally launched in 2008, KIUC is in the process of giving the program a facelift, hoping to add more businesses.

In an early 2013 edition of KIUC Currents, we will include a card in the magazine for each of our 24,000+ members. We will advertise your business six times a year, and include you on KIUC’s and Touchstone Energy’s websites.

There is no cost for participating businesses, except the discount the business decides to give the customer, which is a small price to pay for the increased customers and free advertising.

Here is how the card works: KIUC members show the card at any participating business and receive a discount. It’s that easy.

For more information, or to participate in the program, contact Anne Barnes, Community & Education Programs ­ KIUC 4463 Pahe‘e St. Suite 1, Līhu‘e, HI 96766­2000 Email abarnes@kiuc.coop or visit our website at www.kiuc.coop

Cash In On Savings With Your Co-op Connections Card As a card­carrying member, you can use your Co­op Connections Card or key fob at any participating business and receive discounts at restaurants and retail shops, services, hotels and much more. Spotting a participating business is easy. Look for the Co­op Connections Card sticker on the door or cash register at the business. KIUC publishes an updated list of participating businesses in each issue of KIUC Currents magazine, but deals are added all the time. The best spot to find the latest deals is online at www.kiuc.coop. Simply click the “Co­op Connections” link.

Aloha Services, Kapa‘a, Princeville 10­percent discount on all shipping, storage, copies and post office box rentals.

Backdoor Hanalei, Hanalei 10­percent discount on all original­priced goods, except surfboards and paddleboards.

Buddha Boutique, Līhu‘e 10­percent discount on entire store (discount cannot be combined with other discounts or in­store specials).

Edward Jones, Kalāheo Free portfolio review.

ElectraTech Services LLC, Kapa‘a Receive $500 off any photovoltaic power system.

Seniors 65+ ask about additional savings.

Hanalei Paddler, Hanalei 10­percent discount on all original­priced goods, except surfboards and paddleboards.

Hanalei Surf Company, Hanalei 10­percent discount on all original­priced goods, except surfboards and paddleboards.

Islandwide Solar, Līhu‘e $500 discount or 5­percent off a photovoltaic system, whichever is greater.

Jim Saylor Jewelers, Kapa‘a 10­percent discount.

JJ’s Broiler, Līhu‘e “Early Bird Special” – Customer must be seated between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to receive a 10­percent discount on food items. Liquor is excluded. Tax and gratuity not included.

Kalapaki Bay Memorial Park, Līhu‘e $150 discount on cemetary plots.

Kaua‘i Inn, Līhu’e 20­percent discount off rack rate.

Kaua‘i Memorial Gardens, Līhu‘e 5­percent discount on cemetery property and funeral plans (pre­need). Not good toward at­need services and merchandise.

Kaua‘i Self­Storage, Līhu‘e 10­percent discount on regular rental rate plus one free lock with rental of any size unit.

Kayak Kaua‘i, Kapa‘a 10­percent discount on tours and rentals.

Kujo’s Mini Mart, Kalāheo 10­percent discount on everything, except alcohol, cigarettes and gift items.

New Leaf Skin Care, Līhu‘e 15­percent off all skin care services.

North Shore General Store, Princeville 20­percent off café prices.

Precision Tinting Kaua‘i, Līhu‘e 15­percent discount off regular price.

Progressive Expressions, Kōloa 10­percent discount on original­marked prices, except surfboards.

Sweet N Sassy, ʻEleʻele 10­percent discount on all regular­priced merchandise, not including sale items or other in­store promotions.

The Bikini Room, Hanalei 15­percent off any regular­priced items. Offer not to be combined with any other, not good on sales or discounted items.

Tropics Island Therapy, ʻEleʻele $10 off a 30­minute massage.

Wings Over Kaua‘i, Kalāheo 10­percent discount, three passenger maximum, two passenger minimum. Direct booking only.

Wisteria Lane, Līhu‘e 5 percent discount off any flooring in stock.

Save on your prescriptions with Co­op Connections More than $21.5 million has been saved on prescriptions by co­op members since May 2007.

Discover how much you can save with your Co­op Connections Card. To learn more about Co­op Connections, visit www.kiuc.coop

SEPTEMBER 2012

23

Herb Rub Oven-Braised Pulled Pork

Quick school days recipes The busy school year means dinner planning often gets pushed aside. Here are some better options than drive­through.

Pulled pork makes a great meal because it demands so little time in the kitchen. One batch of pulled pork is simple to prepare and can easily be repurposed in mouth­watering dishes, such as a topping on fried rice, a hearty filling for tacos or pulled pork risotto. It can be added on top of a big green salad or or served as sandwiches your family can enjoy throughout the week.

2 teaspoons dried sage leaves 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves 1½ teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon dried rosemary leaves 1 3­pound boneless pork shoulder or sirloin roast 1 tablespoon canola oil or other neutral­flavored oil 1 cup chicken broth Preheat oven to 300 F. In a small bowl, combine sage, thyme, salt and rosemary. Rub mixture over all sides of meat, pressing to adhere. If meat is tied together with twine or netting, just rub seasoning right over it.

Put the oil in a large Dutch oven or ovenproof skillet with a tight­fitting lid; warm over medium­high heat. Add pork and brown on all sides, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer meat to a plate and set aside.

Add broth to pan, scraping up any browned bits. Bring broth to a boil; return pork to the pan. Cover and bake until the pork is very tender, 2¼ to 2¾ hours.

Transfer meat to a cutting board and let rest 10 to 15 minutes. Use two forks to shred meat into bite­sized pieces. Moisten/season with cooking juices.

Serves 8 to 10 Courtesy of National Pork Board

Quick Chili Mac Skillet

This recipe was created with busy weeknights in mind. Not only is it quick and easy, it is a family friendly and healthy dinner you can feel good about serving. A green salad or fruit is a great way to round out the menu. ½ box elbow macaroni 2 teaspoons canola or vegetable oil ½ pound 85­percent lean ground beef 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped 1 to 2 teaspoons chili powder 1 14.5­ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained 1 15­ounce can kidney or black beans, rinsed and drained Salt Coarsely ground black pepper ¼ cup shredded Mexican cheese blend Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain; return to pan. Heat oil in a large, nonstick skillet over medium heat. Brown ground beef and onion 8 to 10 minutes, or until beef is cooked through and onions are tender, breaking beef into large crumbles. Stir in chili powder then tomatoes. Cook and stir 2 to 3 minutes to blend flavors. Add beans; heat through.

Remove skillet from heat. Toss beef mixture with pasta. Season with salt and pepper as desired. Sprinkle with cheese.

Ground chicken or turkey breast may be substituted for the ground beef.

Serves 4 Courtesy of Dreamfields Pasta 24 KIUC CURRENTS

Mexican Whole Wheat Snack Wraps

Your family will love how good these wraps taste, and you will love how simple they are to prepare.

2 1.25­ounce packets taco seasoning, divided 1 cup mayonnaise 4 frozen hamburger patties (4 to 6 ounces each), thawed 1 cup water 8 8­inch whole wheat soft tortillas 1 large tomato, sliced 1 cup shredded lettuce 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese Taco sauce, any variety Combine one packet seasoning mix and mayonnaise; mix well. Set aside.

Place hamburger patties in a small casserole dish. Combine water and remaining packet of seasoning mix; pour over hamburgers. Cover; marinate in refrigerator 30 minutes.

Preheat grill until piping hot, about 15 minutes.

Remove meat from marinade and discard marinade.

Place on grill and cook to desired doneness.

Remove from grill and cut hamburgers in half.

Spread taco mayonnaise on tortillas. Place half a hamburger on top half of each tortilla. Add tomato, lettuce and cheese. Fold bottom half of tortilla over filling; fold sides toward center, leaving top open. Serve warm with taco sauce.

You can substitute turkey, chicken or veggie burgers for hamburgers.

Makes 8 wraps Courtesy of Ortega

Mexican Pizza

Keep busy school nights easy and fun with quick recipes that have a Mexican flair. ½ pound ground beef ¾ cup water 1 1.25­ounce package taco seasoning mix 1 16­ounce can refried beans 1 package tostada shells 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend Shredded lettuce, sliced olives, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, chopped tomatoes and sour cream Brown beef; drain. Stir in water and seasoning mix. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, 5 to 6 minutes, or until mixture is thickened.

Spread refried beans on each tostada shell. Top with some meat mixture and cheese. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Garnish with desired toppings.

Serves 10 Courtesy of Ortega

SEPTEMBER 2012 25

ENERGY SERVICES

KIUC board sets policy for smart meter deferral

The board of directors of Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative approved a resolution in June setting the policy by which customers of the utility can choose not to have a smart meter installed.

The unanimous action by the board puts in writing the policy followed by KIUC since the meter installation began in April: If you don’t want a smart meter, you don’t have to have one.

The resolution affirms KIUC will not try to install a smart meter on any property where the account holder has deferred and will not seek authorization from the Hawai‘i Public Utilities Commission to install a smart meter on that property.

26 KIUC CURRENTS

The board resolution also states that as the smart meter installation project nears completion, KIUC may convert its deferral policy to an opt­out program that will charge a fee to cover the cost of servicing customers without a smart meter. Any fee would be subject to review and approval by the PUC. Deferral forms are available online at www.kiuc.coop and at the KIUC offices at 4463 Pahe‘e St. in Līhu‘e during regular business hours.

By Paul Daniels

A picture’s worth...

Wisteria Lane

Aloha to the folks at Wisteria Lane, our featured Kaua‘i business for this month’s KIUC Currents.

Don’t let the name fool you. This is a locally owned company operated for the past nine years

by Ohelo and Dejon Kaopio of Kaua’i.

The company specializes in sourcing and manufacturing high­quality hardwood and laminate flooring. The Kaopios pride themselves on being able to provide their customers with a variety of exotic and common hardwood flooring for homes and businesses.

Wisteria Lane also prides itself on being hands on in the day­to­day operations, sourcing their own products and working directly with the factories that manufacture their materials under their Wisteria Lane brand.

You can find the Wisteria Lane showroom on the corner of Rice and Hardy streets in Līhu‘e. This growing business also has locations on each island and distribution warehouses on Oahu and in San Diego.

Pictured is Kaua‘i Manager Nadine Tamayose, right, and her associate Crystal Perry.

Nadine was raised on Kaua‘i and graduated from Kapa’a High School. She has been married 25 years and is a mother of two. Nadine says she loves meeting and working with people and helping them make informed choices about their flooring needs.

Wisteria Lane is a recent Energy Wise Program participant, replacing hot and less efficient 75­ watt halogen flood lamps with cooler 16­watt light­emitting diodes.

We thank Wisteria Lane for supporting Kaua‘i’s energy goals, and for becoming our newest Co­op Connections Card participating business. (See program details on page 20).

If you have a business, large or small, and want to participate in the Commercial Energy Wise Program, call Paul Daniels at 246.8275.

SEPTEMBER 2012

27

Reprinted with permission of Environmental Defense Fund.

What Consumers Need to Know About the Smart Grid and Smart Meters America’s outdated energy system is wasteful, expensive, and a huge source of pollution. Over the next 10 years, utilities will have to invest hundreds of millions of dollars to modernize our electricity grid, most of which is past the age of retirement. By making smart investments in a “smart” green grid, we can enable significantly greater use of clean, renewable energy, non­ polluting electric vehicles, and community­based resources. That will improve air quality and the health of millions of Americans1 now harmed by dangerous air pollution while advancing our energy independence and economic growth.

The diverse benefits of a smart grid 1. Save thousands of lives People whose primary concern is human health have compelling reasons to support the smart grid. The smart grid can cut air pollution from the electric utility sector as much as 30% by 2030.

That would reduce what is now the tragedy of more than 34,000 deaths a year from power plant pollution, more lives than are lost on U.S. highways. Dirty air also worsens asthma and lung disease, especially among children and the elderly, with more than 18 million acute respiratory symptoms annually.

2. Lower utility bills With easy­to­use tools—such as simple online displays of the information smart meters provide about use and prices and set­and­forget home energy management tools—consumers will be able to make choices that lower bills and shrink their environmental footprint.

3. Economic and job growth The clean energy industry is one of our fastest growing sectors, with venture capitalists, utilities, 28 KIUC CURRENTS

and businesses investing billions in domestic solar, wind, energy efficiency, smart grid, and electric vehicle companies and projects. Between 1998 and 2007, clean energy jobs in the U.S. grew by 9.1 percent, while total jobs grew just 3.7 percent.

All told, 770,000 people were working in 68,200 fast­growing businesses spread across all 50 states.2

4. More reliable service through shorter and fewer outages A smart grid uses sensors and communication to pinpoint and fix problems, often before they happen. When black­outs do occur, power can be restored quickly, keeping businesses up and running and households comfortable and safe during storms and heat waves.

5. More clean renewable energy and less dirty fossil fuel Because a smart grid can adjust demand to match intermittent wind and solar supplies, it will enable the United States to rely far more heavily on clean, renewable, home­grown energy: cutting foreign oil imports, mitigating the environmental damage done by domestic oil drilling and coal mining, and reducing harmful air pollution. A smart grid will also facilitate the switch to clean electric vehicles, making it possible to “smart charge” them at night when wind power is abundant and cheap, cutting another huge source of damaging air pollution.

The idea behind smart meters Smart meters are key to realizing these benefits, because they allow for two­way, real­time communication that gives households and utilities the data they need to cut usage and costs. Here’s proof from around the country: • In Oklahoma, communities are benefiting from the Positive Energy smart grid, thanks to which they won’t need to build a new fossil­

fueled power plant until 2020 or beyond.

• In Utah, the Cool Keeper demand­response program has delivered more than 100 megawatts of peak demand load reduction, which represents the combined output of roughly seven peaking power plants, including oil­burning plants with some of the highest emissions rates in the state.

• In Washington, DC, the vast majority of customers in the smart meter pilot program saved money and reduced summer peak demand in response to energy use information and pricing.

Nationwide, the smart grid will help eliminate the need for up to 2,000 dirty, inefficient peak power plants, along with the polluting coal mines and gas fields that supply them.

COMPARISION OF RADIO-FREQUENCY LEVELS FROM VARIOUS SOURCES IN uW/cm2 Source: CCST January 2011 Report: Health Impacts of Radio Frequency From Smart Meters

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Putting RFs in perspective Electromagnetic fields (EMF), including RFs, have been studied for years. Recently, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) of the World Health Organization (WHO) reviewed available research on cell phones, which use radio frequencies (RF) similar to smart meters, but cause much higher levels of exposure. The agency identified cell phone use as “possibly carcinogenic,” noting that “there could be some risk, and therefore we need to keep a close watch for a link between cell phones and cancer risk.”3 Pending the availability of more evidence, the WHO recommends “pragmatic measures to reduce exposure,” such as holding the cell phone further from the ear or using hands­free devices.

The WHO report did not explicitly address smart meters; it and the other commonly cited studies focused on cell phones, power transmission lines, microwave ovens and other emitters of electromagnetic fields (EMFS) at various radio frequencies, including extremely low frequencies (ELFs).

Given that smart meters are also RF emitters, some have worried that if cell phones might pose a health risk, smart meters might do so as well. As with cell phones, a person’s exposure depends on the signal strength and distance: a report published by the California Council of Science and Technology (CCST) in 2010 included findings from the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) that a person 10 feet from a smart meter would experience only a small fraction of the RF exposure—250 to 1,250 times less—that they would be exposed to using a cell phone.4 So

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To communicate with your utility, smart meters use radio frequencies (RF) such as those used by radios, baby monitors, and cell phones.

whether or not future studies find that RFs present more certain health effects, smart meters make up a very small part of a person’s daily exposure.

Still, EDF supports addressing customer concerns proactively: utilities and regulators nationwide might, as in California, consider an opt­out provision that lets customers turn off the technology that transmits data (leaving the option for a future resident to turn the transmitter back on). They might also give serious consideration to alternative communication networks, such as broadband, or the power lines themselves, to carry data, although those options present their own challenges.

We need a smarter grid now EDF does not advocate merely any smart grid; we advocate a smart grid done right. A well­ designed smart grid will drive the clean energy revolution we need—helping utilities reliably deliver power, securing our energy independence, increasing our ability to compete in the global clean energy market, growing our economy, and empowering consumers—all while protecting our air, water, and health.

This article is provided courtesy of

1. American Lung Association State of the Air 2010 Report, http://www.stateoftheair.org/, found that more than 175 million people, 58 percent of the US population, suffer from pollution levels often too dangerous to breathe.

2. http://www.pewcenteronthestates.org/uploadedFiles/Clean_Economy_Report_Web.pdf 3. http://www.iarc.fr/en/media­centre/iarcnews/2011/Intr_Monog102.pdf 4. http://www.ccst.us/publications/2011/2011smartA.pdf

SEPTEMBER 2012

29

Kaua‘i Lifeguard Association 2nd Wave helps save lives Community­contributed article Just a few years ago, Kaua‘i’s lifeguards were challenged by an increasing number of drownings, as many as 15 a year. So the Kaua‘i Lifeguard Association and Ocean Safety Bureau outlined a campaign that would address the problem.

“We knew we had one of the finest training programs and qualified life savers on duty at 10 key locations around the island,” said Kalani Vierra, Kaua‘i’s Ocean Safety Bureau director. “The next step was to increase the number of power­ equipped vehicles, followed by a strong media and communications program that brought ocean safety and awareness to the forefront.”

A campaign called First Wave attracted community support. Thanks to money raised by the campaign, every lifeguard tower was equipped with either a Jet Ski or all­terrain vehicle.

“We have already realized a significant reduction in drownings and numbers of necessary rescues compared to just a few years ago,” said Chief Bob Westerman, who oversees both the fire department and Ocean Safety Bureau for Kaua‘i County.

Monty Downs, KLA’s president said: “Reacting to the continued needs of rescue was not enough. If we educate the public and prepare them for their next trip to the beach, the program becomes a proactive, preventative campaign that actually educates the visitor and resident to precautions.

Hence, the beginning of a 2nd Wave campaign.”

With the assistance of the county and the lifeguard association, Andy Melamed devised a 2nd Wave campaign geared toward prevention.

30 KIUC CURRENTS

Working with KONG radio, Wala’au and The Garden Island, the effort focused on ocean safety measures in a variety of ways.

But that was just the first step.

“Funding from 2nd Wave will create beach and ocean safety signs for specific beaches,” said Melamed. “This year the focus will be at places where we know hazards need to be illustrated.

Winston Welborn has done a great job creating signs initially for Waiohai Beach. The signs will be weatherproofed, easy to read and understand, and placed in kiosks for longevity. Sponsors have made donations for up to six signs thus far as part of the 2nd Wave.”

Money for 2nd Wave is being raised by sales of prize donor tickets through Rotary clubs at various events, with a grand prize of a trip for four to any of 90 destinations Alaska Airlines flies, plus $2,000 cash.

A tide calendar filled with information and safety tips, and stunning action photography donated by Kaua‘i residents, are being sold for $10 at all Big Save markets.

The funding campaign concludes with a Hawai‘i Superstar Sunday concert at Kilohana from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. October 7 starring Willie K and his band, Henry Kapono and Kalapana, John Cruz and special friends, and the comic hit of last year’s show, Andy Bumatai.

There will be a live auction, silent auction and food service, thanks to Kaiola Canoe Club.

Tickets are $60 and are offered at all Big Save markets on Kaua‘i and online at Kauailifeguards.org.

By Karissa Jonas, CFO

Percentage of total revenue Net margins 5.4% Interest 4.6%

Fuel & purchased power costs 53.9%

Taxes 8.4% Deprecia on & amor za on 7.3% Administra ve & general net of nonopera ng margins 6.1%

Statement of operations

Marke ng & communica ons 0.6% Member services 1.8% Transmission & distribu on opera on & maintenance 2.9%

Produc on opera on & maintenance 9.0%

For the period 01/01/2012 – 07/31/2012 We are pleased to report that the KIUC results of operations through July 31, 2012, are favorable. However, year­to­date electricity use on the island continues to be 2 percent lower than in the prior year. Despite the reduction in sales volume, KIUC is still doing everything it can, while maintaining safety and reliability, to reduce costs in various areas to operate efficiently and effectively, and continue to maintain a strong financial position. Revenues, expenses, and net margins totaled $107.1 million, $101.3 million, and $5.8 million, respectively, for the seven­ month period ending July 31, 2012.

As is the case for all electric utilities, the cost of power generation is the largest expense, totaling $67.4 million or 62.9 percent of revenues. Fuel costs are the largest component of power generation, totaling $57.8 million or 53.9 percent of revenues, and representing 85.7 percent of the cost of power generation. The remaining $9.6 million or 9.0 percent of revenues and 14.3 percent of the cost of power generation represents the cost of operating and maintaining the generating units.

The cost of operating and maintaining the electric lines totaled $3.1 million or 2.9 percent of total revenues. The cost of servicing members totaled $1.9 million or 1.8 percent of revenues.

The cost of keeping our members informed totaled $0.7 million or 0.6 percent of revenues.

Administrative and general costs—which include legislative and regulatory expenses, engineering, executive, human resources, safety and facilities, information services, financial and corporate services, and board of director expenses—totaled $6.7 million or 6.3 percent of revenues.

Being very capital intensive, depreciation and amortization of the utility plant costs $7.8 million or 7.3 percent of revenues. Although not subject to federal income taxes, state and local taxes amounted to $9.0 million or 8.4 percent of revenues. Interest on long­term debt, at a favorable sub­5­percent interest rate, totals $4.9 million or 4.6 percent of revenues. Non­operating net margins added $0.2 million to overall net margins. Revenues less total expenses equal margins of $5.8 million or 5.4 percent of revenues. Margins are allocated to consumer members and paid when appropriate.

SEPTEMBER 2012 31

HI-130

September 2012 Volume 9, Number 4 David Bissell President and CEO 2012­2013 KIUC Board of Directors Chairman: Teofilo “Phil” Tacbian Vice Chairman: Jan TenBruggencate Treasurer: Allan Smith Secretary: David Iha Board: Carol Bain, Karen Baldwin, Pat Gegen, Calvin K. Murashige and Peter Yukimura

Finance & Audit Chairman: Allan Smith Members: Carol Bain, Peter Yukimura Government Relations/Legislative Affairs Chairman: Jan TenBruggencate Members: David Iha, Pat Gegen Member Relations Chairman: Carol Bain Members: Karen Baldwin, Allan Smith Policy Chairman: Peter Yukimura Members: Karen Baldwin, Calvin K. Murashige Strategic Planning Chairman: David Iha Members: Pat Gegen, Calvin K. Murashige

Parting shot 4463 Pahe‘e Street, Suite 1 Līhu‘e, Hawai‘i 96766­2000 808.246.4300 ■ www.kiuc.coop currents@kiuc.coop

KIUC crews worked in Lawai Valley to redirect a transmission line.

Workers transferred the old lines onto a newly built steel structure and used a helicopter to pull the wire from the valley to the top of the hill.