Want some free papaya seeds?

Pick a papaya for science.

Two scientists with the University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources have created a new citizen-science app that tracks what they believe to be the declining incidence of papaya ringspot virus (PRSV) in Honolulu, as well as a possible increase in PRSV-resistant genetically engineered papayas.

They are interested in finding out how many papaya plants growing in home gardens or public areas are genetically engineered and of those that are not, how many are still harboring the virus. To participate in the Pic-a-Papaya project, visit http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/pic-a-papaya to download the free app, for iOS or Android devices, and to find out more information.

There are free papaya seeds for all participants.

It’s a good idea, but stick to the rules

A plan for moderately priced housing in McCully is welcome, but the developer should heed the community’s concerns and build within the existing zoning regulations.

Developer Franco Mola wants to build a condominium tower on a block bordered by McCully and South King streets. The McCully-Moiliili Neighborhood Board objects to variances he’s seeking, which would make the tower higher and denser than zoning allows.

The board voted 10-1 to support the project without variances, which would mean Mola could still build a 150-foot-high building with appropriate setbacks.

We hope the City Council listens to the neighbors as Mola moves forward with his request.