Scientist discusses gravitational waves
The recent detection of gravitational waves has rocked the world of physics and given scientists a new perspective on the very fabric of the universe.
At 7 p.m. Tuesday, David Reitze, director of the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory, will present his insights on the detection of gravitational waves at University of Hawaii at Hilo Science &Technology Building, room 108.
The talk is free. Space is limited.
Chamber’s Workforce Needs Assessment discussed
The Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce has finished conducting a report, “Workforce Needs Assessment,” to determine the existing and future needs of West Hawaii’s business community. The report will be presented to the public 3 p.m. Tuesday at West Hawaii Civic Center, Community Meeting Hale Building G.
From the study, the top three general skills to work successfully in a company were identified as customer service, communication and problem solving.
“For me, this study helps communicate the business sector’s needs to the education community, government leaders and beyond,” said Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kirstin Kahaloa. “The assessment is a conversation starter and a bridge builder to better jobs and skills for our kamaaina.”
Sign up for the two-hour presentation: kona-kohala.com.
The study will be available online at kona-kohala.com after the presentation.
Info: 329-1758 or email info@kona-kohala.com.
Thompson named Officer of the Month
The Kona Crime Prevention Committee recognized Officer Mike Thompson as Officer of the Month for May in a luncheon ceremony Wednesday at Huggo’s restaurant in Kailua-Kona.
Thompson was honored for an act of kindness his supervisor described as “far beyond compassion.”
On Dec. 19, an 88-year-old woman called 911 just after noon to report that Meals on Wheels had missed a 9:30 a.m. delivery and she was hungry. Dispatchers attempted to contact the appropriate agency but were unable to reach anyone, so Thompson was assigned to check on the woman.
On his way to the caller’s house, Thompson stopped at his own home and gathered food from his pantry to share with her. He then went to her house and prepared her a meal. When he learned she was unable to open cans, he opened additional cans of food and placed them in her refrigerator in plastic containers for future use.
Sgt. Grad Elarionoff nominated Thompson for the award.
“In a time when police officers are becoming increasingly hardened, a simple gesture of aloha reminds us all that police officers are people too, caring people,” Elarionoff wrote in nomination papers. “I’m at a loss for words.”
As Officer of the Month, Thompson is eligible for Officer of the Year.