The Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs, Hawaiʻi Island

Harmony in the U.S.A. and Love, along with the patriotism of the American flag, were the messages from

these paraders in Volcano Village today. Photo by Leilani Esperanza

A JULY FOURTH MESSAGE FROM STATE SEN. KAI KAHELE, who is running to serve Kaʻū and the rest of rural Hawaiʻi in the U.S. House of Representatives:

A Color Guard marches for Independence Day
in Volcano. Photo by Leilani Esperanza

"Today, on the anniversary of our nation's independence, we celebrate the declaration of our unalienable human rights, upon which this great nation was founded. As we gather with our friends and families, let us honor those Americans who have sacrificed their lives for the freedoms we all enjoy.
"Just over two centuries ago, the founders of our democracy proclaimed that all individuals have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Now, the need for a belief in these founding ideals is more important than ever, and we must continue to strive to secure equality and liberty for all."

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AN INDEPENDENCE DAY TWEET FROM SEN. MAZIE HIRONO: "With tanks in the streets for the Trump Show and immigrant children locked in cages, the 4th of July is not a celebration of @realDonaldTrump's cruelty and vanity. Today, I'm celebrating a country that welcomes immigrants, diversity, and strives to become a more perfect union."
Her tweet was met with many responses of support for the military air show and the President's talk in Washington, D.C. today. See Hirono on Twitter.

Uncle Sam strolls through Volcano Village with Lady Liberty holding the torch. Photo by Yvette Slack

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A JULY 4th TWEET FROM REP. TULSI GABBARD: "The self-serving politician that he is, Trump has succeeded in making July 4th about himself, and in doing so, further divided our country. This on a day when our nation's president should be uniting us. #IndependeceDay." Her tweet received similar responses as those sent to Hirono, supporting Pres. Donald Trump.

The Royal Order of Kamehameha is a regular in the Fourth of July Parade in Volcano. Photo by Yvette Slack

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NEW FIREWORKS LAWS were signed this week by Gov. David Ige, a little ahead of today's festivities. On Tuesday, Ige signed three of four pending bills that have to do with pyrotechnics.

Red, white, and blue decorated motorcycle joins the parade.
Photo by Leilani Esperanza

Said Ige, "Hawaiʻi has a long history with fireworks, but I do believe that these measures really help us do a better job of regulating fireworks as appropriate and most importantly keep our communities safe."
Act 184 requires a new report from an illegal fireworks taskforce that was created in 2011, by Dec. 1. The taskforce was created to help stop importation of illegal fireworks and explosives, and develop a strategy to protect airports, harbors, and "other facilities and institutions."

Act 185 clears up language about dimensions issue on fireworks labeling, "from nine inches by nine inches to nine square inches."

Act 186 clarifies how fireworks can be used by movie, television, and theatrical productions, and how law enforcement can test, dispose of, and destruct illegal fireworks.

HB89was not signed Tuesday, but is not on Ige's Intend to Veto list. The bill would establish liability of and criminal penalties for the property owner when illegal fireworks are set off on the property. It would also establish probable cause for fireworks offenses arrests "may be based on statements from witnesses and photographs, video, and other recordings." Governor Ige did not name HB89 to his list of bills he intends to veto.

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Grand Marshal of the Volcano Parade rode a silver convertible, draped in flag. Photo by Leilani Esperanza

VOLCANO'S FOURTH OF JULY PARADE today drew people from many walks of life, community interests, and avocations. See photos on this page and more about the Volcano Fourth of July Parade in tomorrow's Kaʻū News Briefs, including images of paniolo from Kaʻū who hauled horses from Mauna Loa to Kīīlauea Volcano to participate in the parade. See Miss Kaʻū Coffee and her court, along with Science Camps of America who made the journey from Kaʻū.

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Volcano firefighters in the rain. Photo by Yvette Slack

HURRICANE BARBARA is forecast to be downgraded to a Tropical Storm by tomorrow afternoon, then a Tropical Depression by Sunday Afternoon. The former category 4 Hurricane is now moving northwest at 12 miles per hour with 100 mph winds. She was 1,560 miles east southeast of Hawaiʻi at 5 p.m.

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See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

2019 Kaʻū High School Athletics Schedule through August
See khpes.org/athletics-home for details and updates; Bowling TBA.

Football, Division II:
Mon., July 15, first day Conditioning, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Mon., July 22, first day Full Pads, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Sat., Aug. 24, 1 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kamehameha

Girls Volleyball, Kaʻū District Gym:
Mon., July 29, 3 to 5 p.m., first day practice
Tue., Aug. 20, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Hilo
Fri., Aug. 23, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts St. Joseph
Wed., Aug. 28, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kohala

Cross Country:

Mon., Aug. 5, 2:30 to 4 p.m., first day practice
Sat., Aug. 31, 10 a.m., @Christian Liberty

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UPCOMING

FRIDAY, JULY

Ka‘ū Roping & Riding Association 42nd Annual 4th of July Buckle Rodeo, Saturday and Sunday, July 6 and 7. Slack starts 8a.m., show starts noon, at rodeo grounds behind Nā‘ālehu Park. Tickets available at gate, $8/person. Pre-sale tickets available $7/person around town from Rodeo Queen contestants. Ralph or Tammy, 929-8079

Stewardship at the Summit, July 6, 12, 20, and 26, 8:45a.m.-noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plants. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks, and water. Gloves/tools provided. Parental/guardian accompaniment or written consent required for under 18 yrs. Free; park entrance fees apply. Paul and Jane Field, field@hawaii.edu, nps.gov/havo

Edible Landscaping for Backyards and Beyond with Zach Mermel of Ola Design Group, Saturday, July 6, 9a.m.-noon, Volcano Art Center. Learn how to transform lanai and lawn, field and fence into an abundant oasis of edible and multifunctional plants. $30/VAC member, $40/non-member, plus $15 materials fee. Class size limited; register early. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Alternative Handbuilding - East African Pottery with Erik Wold, Saturday, July 6 through August 31, 10a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. No class August 24. $180/VAC member, $200/non-member, plus $15 materials fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Zentangle Inspired Labyrinth Cartouches with Lois and Earl Stokes, Saturday, July 6, 10a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. All welcome, no experience necessary. Potluck - bring dish to share. $30/VAC member, $35/non-member, plus $10 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Keiki Science Class, Saturday, July 6 – 1st Saturday, monthly – 11a.m.-noon, Ace Hardware Stores islandwide; Nā‘ālehu, 929-9030 and Ocean View, 929-7315. Free. acehardware.com

SUNDAY, JULY 7

Postcards from the Edge - Painting Workshop with Artist-in-Residence Alice Leese, Sunday, July 7, 10a.m.-noon, edge of Kīlauea, behind Volcano House. Meet and paint with Leese. Limited to 12 people. Attendees receive a postcard-sized blank canvas but must bring their own paints and a small travel easel. $75/person includes lunch at Volcano House. Register, fhvnp.org/events/postcards-from-the-edge-painting-workshop-with-artist-in-residence-alice-leese. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

Sunday Clay - High Fire! with Erik Wold, July 7 to Sept. 1, morning session 11:30a.m.-2:30p.m., or afternoon session 2:45-5:45p.m., Volcano Art Center. No class Aug. 25. Eight wheel-thrower and three hand builder slots per session. $180/VAC member, $200/non-member, plus $15 materials fee, per 8-week session. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, July 7 – 1st Sunday, monthly – noon-2p.m., Manukā State Park. Anyone interested in learning about ham radio is welcome to attend. View sites.google.com/site/southpointarc or sites.google.com/viewith southhawaiiares/home. Rick Ward, 938-3058

MONDAY, JULY 8

Head Coaches Wanted for Ka‘ū High School, 2019-2020: Coed Judo, Coed Swimming, and Boys Basketball. Applications due Monday, July 8 - pick up at school office weekdays, 8a.m.-4p.m. Must pass criminal background check. Athletic Director Kalei Namohala, 313-4161

Ka‘ū Homeschool Co–op Group, Monday, July 8, 1p.m., contact for location. Parent-led homeschool activity and social group, building community in Ka‘ū. Laura Roberts, 406-249-3351

Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Monday, July 8 (Committees), Tuesday, July 9 (Council), Hilo. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

Couples Dinner, Monday-Friday, July 8-12, 4:30-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Followed by Couples Engagement, 6-8p.m. Hosted by Ocean View Baptist Church. Open to the public.

TUESDAY, JULY 9

Flameworking - An Introductory Class with Nash Adams-Pruitt, Tuesday, July 9, 5-8p.m., Volcano Art Center. $75/VAC member, $80/non-member, plus $40 supply fee. Class size limited. Register early. Advanced registration required. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

After Dark in the Park - New Insights from Kīlauea Volcano's 2018 Lower East Rift Zone Eruption, Tuesday, July 9, 7p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. USGS HVO geologist Matt Patrick describes expected and unexpected aspects of the eruption and how the activity might be used to improve his and other scientists' ability to forecast future hazards on Kīlauea. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10

Kui Kalo Demonstration, Wednesday, July 10, 10a.m.-noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. Ranger Keoni Kaholo‘a‘ā shares knowledge of kalo and making poi. Free; park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/havo

THURSDAY, JULY 11

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, July 11, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

Laysan Albatross (Mōlī) and Other Native Seabirds: Their Significance in Hawaiian Culture, Thursday, July 11, 6:30-8p.m., Volcano Art Center. Short documentary showing, book signing, and presentation by Kumu Sabra Kauka and Hob Osterlund, award-winning writer, photographer, and conservationist. Free; $5 donation to VAC suggested. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

FRIDAY, JULY 12

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, July 12, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Community Dance, Friday, July 12, 7-10p.m., Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Minors allowed with supervision only. Alcohol-free event. Variety of music. Snacks provided; additional pūpū welcome. Free. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

ONGOING

Seamless Summer Program, open to all people under age 18, no registration required, offers free breakfast at Nāʻālehu Elementary and Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary School cafeterias. Meals are available weekdays through Friday, July 12. Kaʻū High serves breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m., lunch from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call (808) 939-2413 for Nāʻālehu Elementary mealtimes.

Head Coaches for Coed Judo, Coed Swimming, and Boys Basketball are wanted by Kaʻū High School for the 2019-2020 school year. Applications, due Monday, July 8, can be picked up at the school office weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Coaches hired by Hawaiʻi Department of Education are required to pass a criminal background check. Contact Kaʻū High Athletic Director Kalei Namohala 313-4161 with questions.

Experience Volcano Festival is still looking for vendors. Booths for the event are $25 per day for Saturday, July 27, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday, July 28, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is coordinated with the new ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon, 5K, and Keiki Dash on the 27th. Apply at experiencevolcano.com/vendor-application.
Experience Volcano is a group of businesses and residents helping to rebuild the economy of Volcano, following last year's volcanic disaster that shut down Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and drastically reduced the visitor county which is now recovering.

ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon, 5K, and Keiki Dash happens Saturday, July 27 in Volcano Village, It replaces the Volcano Rain Forest Runs. Register at ohialehuahalf.com.

Exhibit -The Joy of the Brush: Paintings by Linda J. Varez, daily through Sunday, Aug. 4, 9a.m.-5p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees may apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

6th Annual Ka‘ū Coffee Trail Run Registration, webscorer.com/register?raceid=166020. 5K, 10K, 1/2 Marathon races through mac nut and coffee fields along slopes of Ka‘ū starting at 7a.m., Saturday, Sept. 21, Ka‘ū Coffee Mill. Sponsored by Ka‘ū Coffee Mill and ‘O Ka‘ū Kākou. Prices increase after July 9. okaukakou.org, kaucoffeemill.com

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The crew of the USGS Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory walked the Volcano Parade yesterday. Read about the
scientists' views in Volcano Watch below and see more parade photos, below. Photo by Yvette Slack

NA ALA HELE TRAIL AND ACCESS SYSTEM, which maintains Kaʻū's Manukā Nature Trail and Kaheāwai Trail, will receive $530,000 from Hawai‘i Tourism. This is in addition to more than $540,000 HTA has provided for a wide range of Department of Land and Natural Resources initiatives and programs over the past year for a total of $1,071,390. HTA's goal, according to a DLNR release, is to inform and educate local residents and visitors on "how to properly approach the environment and to support efforts to restore certain natural and cultural resources around the state."
Mike Millay, the Statewide Program Manager for Na Ala Hele under the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife, said, "Getting this level of funding from Hawai‘i Tourism was an unexpected surprise. This funding is earmarked for conducting a universal trail assessment of the state's 128 sanctioned trails which cover 825 miles of recreational trails. This will allow us to gather data on how many people are regularly using specific trails and to identify trail maintenance and improvement issues we need to address for the safety and enjoyment of our wonderful trail system."

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park rangers walk through Volcano Village, in their traditional ranger uniforms,
and now familiar endangered bat and butterfly costumes. Photo by Leilani Esperanza

Over the past year, HTA has funded numerous projects associated with the battle against Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death, including aerial mapping of forests across the state and education, and information products and projects to help inform people about how not to spread this devastating fungal disease.

Hawai‘i Tourism also paid for the final production costs of the Mālama Hawaiʻi public service announcement campaign. A series of seven 30-second PSAs are being shown on incoming flights to Hawai‘i on several air carriers and in more than 27,000 rooms around the state on closed-circuit TV systems.

Kalani Ka‘anā‘anā, Hawai‘i Tourism's Director of Cultural Affairs, said, "HTA has a strong and lasting commitment toward helping protect and preserve the very natural and cultural resources that bring millions of visitors to our shores each year. In addition to the trail assessment we'll be working closely with the Na Ala Hele system on a sign initiative to best inform trail users, as well as to help conduct clearing operations to improve safety conditions."

Mamaki Butterfly costume from Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Photo by Yvette Slack

DLNR Chair Suzanne Case said, "The partnership we have with HTA is invaluable in providing additional resources to address some of the most pressing issues associated with people 'loving Hawai‘i to death.' We all understand the attraction people from across the globe have to this place we call home. With help from Hawai‘i Tourism and the many other partners DLNR regularly works with, our goal is to not only improve the quality of outdoor experiences for our visitors, but the quality of life for kama‘aina."

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"TURN LEFT TUESDAY" and visiting areas away from Kīlauea's summit is promoted by Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park. A release today said major congestion and lack of parking due to increasing summer visitation – especially on Tuesdays, due to the Hilo docking of the Pride of America cruise ship – is causing "frustration and citations for illegal parking," according to a release from the Park.

Science Camps of America stays in Kaʻū in July and walks the parade each year. Photo by Yvette Slack

Attractions like Wāhinekapu (Steaming Bluff), Steam Vents, Ha‘akulamanu (Sulphur Banks), Devastation Trail, Kīlauea Iki, Pu‘u Pua‘i, and Kīlauea Visitor Center are cited as being frequently overcrowded.

Said Chief of Interpretation Ben Hayes, "Parking is a mess on Tuesdays, but it's a challenge any day during the busy summer months. On Tuesdays, expect to find zero parking at the summit destinations between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. It's not unusual for traffic to be backed out onto Highway 11 from the entrance station.

"We want our visitors to leave with smiles, photos, and memories that will last a lifetime, not a parking ticket or a negative experience. All it takes is a little planning and flexibility."

A new page on the Park's website shows the parking status at popular locations throughout the days, nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/parking.htm. Almost all of the sights along Chain of Craters Road usually have ample parking around the clock.

Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks runs the bookstores at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes.
Photo by Leilani Esperanza

Park rangers offer these tips so all visitors have a positive and memorable time in the park:

"Turn Left Tuesday." Get into the left lane, and turn left at the entrance station to head down the 19-mile Chain of Craters Road towards the Park's dramatic lava-covered coast to avoid the crowds. Stop at the crater pullouts along the way, explore Mauna Ulu fissure eruption and Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs, and enjoy scenic overlooks and the Hōlei Sea Arch.

Hike Kīlauea Iki Trail. This four-mile trek is one of the most scenic and popular trails in the park. Plan to hit the trail by 7 a.m., and be out by 10 a.m.

Mauna Loa Road

is well worth exploring during peak hours, especially in good weather. Kīpukapuaulu offers an easy, forested hike, and the views and birding are excellent along the way to the Mauna Loa Overlook at 6,662 feet.

Visit Kahuku.Kahuku is free, never crowded, and is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday. Located on the mauka (inland) side of Highway 11 near mile marker 70.5 in Ka‘ū.

Timing is Everything. Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park is open 24 hours, 365 days a year (except for Kahuku). Explore the summit attractions well before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m.

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VOLCANO PARADE YESTERDAY brought Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association, the Miss Kaʻū Coffee court, Science Camps of America, Rotary Club of Volcano, Volcano School of Arts & Sciences, and many more to Old Volcano Highway for the annual event on Fourth of July. See more photos in yesterday's and tomorrow's Kaʻū News Briefs.

Miss Kaʻū Coffee court. Left to right, Jr. Miss Kaʻū Coffee Cristina Kawewehi, Miss Kaʻū Coffee Helena Nihipali Sesson,
Miss Kaʻū Coffee Flower Kysha Manini Kaupu, Miss Peaberry Liliana Marques, first Peaberry Princess Kendall Haddock,
and second Miss Peaberry Princess Helen Miranda. Photo by Leilani Esperanza

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HIGH SURF ADVISORY, issued by the National Weather Service, for all east-facing Hawaiʻi Island shores due to the approach of Tropical Storm Barbara. She is forecast pass into the Central Pacific tomorrow morning. At the same time, she is expected to be downgraded again, to a Tropical Depression. As of 5 p.m., the former category 4 hurricane was about 1,250 miles east southeast of Kaʻū, moving northwest at 14 miles per hour with 50 mph winds.

NWS states surf will be higher than normal, with strong breaking waves, dangerous shore break, and rip currents, making swimming difficult and dangerous. Beach-goers, swimmers, and surfers should heed all advice given by ocean safety officials and exercise caution. Know your limits; when in doubt, do not go out. Beaches may be closed without notice.

Another Tropical Storm is forming in the same area as Barbara, with a 90 percent chance of developing into the season's third named storm.

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The 2019 Miss Kaʻū Coffee court, covering up with umbrellas and laughing in the drizzle
during the parade. Photo by Yvette Slack

SEVERAL LARGE FORESHOCKS AND A 7.1 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE in Central Californiahave not caused a tsunami that would affect Hawaiʻi. Yesterday, a 6.4 M struck near Ridgecrest, CA. Today, the same area was the epicenter of ten aftershocks over 4.0 M, including the 7.1M quake at 5:19 p.m., which redefines the preceding quakes as foreshocks. This is the largest quake in Southern California about 20 years; the 7.1M Hector Mine quake happened in the Mojave Desert in 1999.

U.S. Geological Survey predicted a ten percent chance of another 7.0M earthquake in the next week, with almost full certainty that 5.0 quakes would continue as aftershocks.

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KEEPING HAWAIʻI ISLAND RESIDENTS INFORMED is the focus of U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory's Volcano Watch this week, written by HVO geologist Katie Mulliken:

USGS Volcano Notification Service informs island residents about Hawaiian volcanoes.

Rotary Club of Volcano rolls through the parade and sponsors food after the event.
Photo by Leilani Esperanza

Hawaiʻi residents are likely familiar with the Volcano Activity Updates that the HVO issues for Kīlaueaand other active Hawaiian volcanoes. These updates, which provide situational awareness of volcanic activity and hazards, were formally established in 2006.

In addition to Daily, Weekly, or Monthly Updates, other types of notifications provided through this service include Volcanic Activity Notices, Status Reports, Volcano Observatory Notices for Aviation, and Information Statements.

Before and during the 2018 lower East Rift Zone eruption and summit collapse events, HVO used these notification types to alert the public to changing activity at Kīlauea.

Today, we will explain VANs and VONAs. This is timely because just this week, HVO issued a VAN and VONA to communicate a change in status for Mauna Loa Volcano.

Like updates, VANs and VONAs include the name and location of the volcano and a description of the activity and associated hazards. Each notification lists the Volcano Alert Level, which informs people on the ground about the volcano's status, and the Aviation Color Code, which informs the aviation sector about airborne ash hazards.

VANs are released when there is a significant change in volcanic activity. In the lead up to the 2018 LERZ eruption, HVO released four VANs. alerting people to changes at Kīlaueaand the potential consequences of those changes. On April 17, 2018, a VAN conveyed that Puʻu ʻŌʻō was becoming increasingly pressurized, and hypothesized that a new eruption site might form on or near the Puʻu ʻŌʻō cone as a result.

A VAN was then issued on April 24 to let people know that Kīlauea's summit lava lake in Halemaʻumaʻu was high, and occasionally overflowing, increasing the risk for rockfalls and explosions. In it, HVO extrapolated that if a new vent occurred on or near Puʻu ʻŌʻō, the summit lava lake level would likely drop.

Hawaiʻi County Marching Band. Photo by Yvette Slack

After Puʻu ʻŌʻō collapsed on April 30, 2018, due to the withdrawal of locally-stored magma, HVO released another VAN on May 1. This notice stated that the collapse, along with earthquakes and deformation propagating down Kīlauea's East Rift Zone, indicated that an outbreak of lava farther downrift was possible.

When lava was observed erupting in the Leilani Estates subdivision on May 3, HVO issued a VAN heralding the start of the 2018 LERZ eruption. This VAN changed the Volcano Alert-Level for Kīlauea from WATCH (escalating unrest or eruption underway with limited hazards) to WARNING (hazardous eruption underway).

With the LERZ eruption fully underway, another VAN was issued on May 9, 2018, confirming HVO's April 24 forecast that the release of pressure at Puʻu ʻŌʻō would lead to a drop in Kīlauea's summit lava lake. This VAN emphasized that explosive hazards were possible, including ashfall downwind of the summit.

VONAs are issued when aviation hazards are associated with changes in volcanic activity. They inform pilots, air-traffic controllers, and meteorologists of ash emissions associated with explosive eruptions, including information on height and behavior of the volcanic ash cloud.

The cast and crew of KDEN's summer musical, Flower Drum Song.
Photo by Yvette Slack

At Kīlauea's summit, low-level ash emissions were nearly continuous after the lava lake dropped out of view on May 10, 2018, but posed no hazard to aviation. However, on the morning of May 15, ash emissions increased noticeably. In response, HVO issued a VONA – the first ever for Kīlauea– notifying the aviation industry that a 3,000‒3,600-meter (10,000‒12,000-foot) plume was transporting ash and vog in a southwest direction.

This VONA was accompanied by a VAN changing Kīlauea Volcano's Aviation Color Code from ORANGE, denoting an eruption with little to no ash emissions, to RED, signifying that an eruption was underway with significant volcanic ash emissions.

HVO released several more VANs and VONAs in 2018 as dynamic activity continued at Kīlauea's summit and LERZ. On October 5, 2018, the Aviation Color Code returned to YELLOW and the

Volcano Alert-Level was downgraded to ADVISORY, both indicating that volcanic activity had decreased significantly.

March 26, 2019, with the ongoing eruptive lull on Kīlauea, HVO lowered the Volcano Alert-Level to NORMALand the Aviation Color Code to GREEN. However, HVO continues to closely monitor volcanic activity and releases Weekly Updates for Kīlauea– and now Mauna Loa– and Monthly Updates for the other active Hawaiian volcanoes.

Volcano School marches through its home town.
Photo by Lelani Esperanza

The free USGS Volcano Notification Service sends notification emails about volcanic activity at U.S.monitored volcanoes, including Hawaiian volcanoes. HVO encourages all Hawaiʻi residents to sign up to receive these automatic notices at volcanoes.usgs.gov/vns2.

Volcano Activity Updates

The USGS Volcano Alert level for Mauna Loa was changed on July 2, 2019, to ADVISORY. For definitions of USGS Volcano Alert Levels, see volcanoes
.usgs.gov/vhp/about_alerts.html. See Tuesday's Kaʻū News Briefs for the Mauna Loa advisory change, and reasons for the change.

Kīlauea Volcano is not erupting and its USGS Volcano Alert level remains at NORMAL.
There were two events with three or more felt reports in the Hawaiian islands during the past week: a magnitude-3.7 earthquake 14 km (9 mi) south of Volcano at 8 km (5 mi) depth occurred on July 1, 2019 at 09:37 p.m. HST; a magnitude-2.6 earthquake 14 km (9 mi) southeast of Volcano at 6 km (4 mi) depth occurred on June 30, 2019 at 02:43 p.m. HST.

Visit volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvofor past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake info, and more. Call 808-967-8862 for Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

2019 High School Athletics Schedule through August
See khpes.org/athletics-home for details and updates; Bowling TBA.

Football, Division II:
Mon., July 15, first day Conditioning, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Mon., July 22, first day Full Pads, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Sat., Aug. 24, 1 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kamehameha

Girls Volleyball, Kaʻū District Gym:
Mon., July 29, 3 to 5 p.m., first day practice
Tue., Aug. 20, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Hilo
Fri., Aug. 23, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts St. Joseph
Wed., Aug. 28, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kohala

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

SATURDAY, JULY 6

Keiki Science Class, Saturday, July 6 – 1st Saturday, monthly – 11a.m.-noon, Ace Hardware Stores islandwide; Nā‘ālehu, 929-9030 and Ocean View, 929-7315. Free. acehardware.com

SUNDAY, JULY 7

MONDAY, JULY 8

Ka‘ū Homeschool Co–op Group, Monday, July 8, 1p.m., contact for location. Parent-led homeschool activity and social group, building community in Ka‘ū. Laura Roberts, 406-249-3351

Couples Dinner, Monday-Friday, July 8-12, 4:30-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Followed by Couples Engagement, 6-8p.m. Hosted by Ocean View Baptist Church. Open to the public.

TUESDAY, JULY 9

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10

THURSDAY, JULY 11

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, July 11, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, JULY 12

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, July 12, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

ONGOING

ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon, 5K, and Keiki Dash happens Saturday, July 27 in Volcano Village, It replaces the Volcano Rain Forest Runs. Register at ohialehuahalf.com.

Exhibit -The Joy of the Brush: Paintings by Linda J. Varez, daily through Sunday, Aug. 4, 9a.m.-5p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees may apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

6th Annual Ka‘ū Coffee Trail Run Registration, webscorer.com/register?raceid=166020. 5K, 10K, 1/2 Marathon races through mac nut and coffee fields along slopes of Ka‘ū starting at 7a.m., Saturday, Sept. 21, Ka‘ū Coffee Mill. Sponsored by Ka‘ū Coffee Mill and ‘O Ka‘ū Kākou. Prices increase after July 9. okaukakou.org, kaucoffeemill.com

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

Kaʻū women on horseback called Na Paniola Kaʻū, headed up Kīlauea Volcano to ride in the Volcano Fourth of
July 4 Parade along Old Volcano Highway. See more below. Photo from Kehau Ke

A MEETING ON THE KEIKI OʻPALEHUA ʻOHANA program, which seeks to help the children of coffee farmers and coffee farm workers by providing childcare and education during work hours, will be held on Saturday July 13, 3 p.m., at the Kaʻū District Gym's Activity Center.
Childcare organizer Laura Diaz said she invites all Kaʻū farmers to attend. She said childcare with educational activities will focus in part on the Marshallese community, which provides much labor for the coffee industry and is in need of childcare.
A number of Kaʻū Coffee farmers predict that more farms would choose to employ Marshallese workers if imported labor from Latin America becomes scarce. The Marshallese are already living in the Kaʻū community. Their children go to school here and their earnings stay in this community. Some Kaʻū Coffee farmers already depend on the Marshallese community to harvest their coffee.

Marshallese families may soon have a place for their children while
the parents work on Kaʻū Coffee farms. The location is an
educational setting at Pāhala Hongwanji.
Photo by Julia Neal

A location for the program is under renovation at Pāhala Hongwanji. Diaz said discussion will include progress on the building; securing additional in-kind donations; assistance from the County Department of Research and Development; recruiting farm worker families to participate in the program; and insurance coverage.
Also on the agenda are the time-table for launching and starting the program; planning the Grand Opening Celebration; and "how the community can help and why community cooperation is important," said Diaz. "Are we ready and willing to commit to this project? This program benefits all of us coffee growers in the Kaʻū area. We need your support, and to do that you have to make an effort and attend this meeting. Attendance counts for requesting additional federal funding and monetary donations."
For more information, contact Diaz at 928-8188.

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Merle Becker of Aikane Plantation helps many young
paniolo with access to pasture, horses, and training.
Photo by Leilani Esperanza

NA PANIOLA O KAʻŪ represented the ranching life of the district in the Volcano Villlage Fourth of July Parade on Thursday. It was the first time, in at least recent history, that the paniola on horseback have entered the event. The ladies represented numerous cattle and horse operations in Kaʻū, just days before the rodeo in Nāʻālehu.
Those who rode are Lori Lee Lorenzo, Kehau Ke, Kamalani Kahaulua Stacy, Denicia Derasin, Merle Becker, Kehaulani Ke, Elaine Togami, Kricia Derasin, and Mckella Akana.

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LEARNING ABOUT WATER LAW and how to advocate for water will be the subject of Department of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries meeting at Pāhala Community Center on Wednesday, July 17, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Ka Huli Alo will provide a brief overview of Hawaiʻi legal framework governing water resource management. It will be followed by a discussion on "how homestead communities can advocate for pono, righteous, use and protection of wai, water," says an announcement of the meeting.

The session is free and open to all DHHL beneficiaries. RSVP by Sunday, July 14 to Tereariʻi at 808-956-4025 or nhlawctr@hawaii.edu. Include community name in RSVP. Dinner and refreshments are provided for those who RSVP.

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HIGH SURF ADVISORY is in effect through Monday morning for all south and east-facing Hawaiʻi Island shores due to the approach of what's left of Hurricane Barbara. She passed into the Central Pacific today as a Tropical Depression. As of 11 a.m., she was about 1,050 miles east southeast of Kaʻū, moving west at 17 miles per hour with 40 mph winds.

Wāhine riders from Kaʻū in the Volcano Fourth of July Parade. Photo by Yvette Slack

National Weather Service states the east swell and south southwest swell will likely elevate surf through Sunday. Waves are forecast at six to ten feet, building to eight to 12 feet by tonight for east-facing shores, five to eight feet for south-facing shores. NWS warns of strong longshore and rip currents, making swimming difficult and dangerous. Beach-goers, swimmers, and surfers should heed all advice given by ocean safety officials and exercise caution. Know your limits; when in doubt, do not go out.

The third named storm of the hurricane season, Cosme, which formed in the same area as Barbara, is expected to dissipate into a Tropical Depression by mid-week, while still about 2,000 miles from Hawaiʻi.

Lori Lee Lorenzo, with the Kaʻū Banner.

Photo by Leilani Esperanza

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SHOTS WERE FIRED by a National Park Service law enforcement officer, in pursuit of a stolen vehicle on Friday, July 5 at approximately 1:30 p.m. The incident began in Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park's Kahuku Unit and continued outside the Park when the driver fled.

While attempting to stop the driver at MānukaState Park, an altercation ensued and shots were fired by the NPS officer. The incident is under investigation by Hawai‘i CountyPolice and the National Park Service.

Further inquiries should be directed to HPD.

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FORTY-SECOND ANNUAL BUCKLE JULY 4 RODEO continues tomorrow, Sunday, July 7, at the Kaʻū Roping & Riding Association arena in Nāʻālehu. Folks are invited to pray and praise at Cowboy Church before the show. Slack starts at 8 a.m., show starts at noon. Tickets at the gate for $8 per person.

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Paniola Kehau Ke from Kaʻū waves the flag on the Fourth.
Photo by Leilani Esperanza

KA LAE QUILTERS PLANS TO DONATE up to 50 quilts to the Hawaiʻi County Police Department for children in need who are encountered by police officers. Quilter Suzanne Brady said Kalae Quilters has donated more than 100 quilts in recent years. Representatives of the police department will receive the quilts this Thursday, July 11 at DiscoveryHarbourCommunity Center.

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ACTIVITIES AT KAHUKU for July include the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Annual Cultural Festival, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event features hula, music, and crafts.

There is no Coffee Talk event this month.

Ranger Orientation talks happen Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays 10 a.m at the Visitor Contact Station.

Guided Hikes happen Saturdays and Sundays, except July 13, at 9:30 a.m. at the VCS. Sunday, July 7 focuses on Hiʻiaka and Pele. Sunday, July 14 on ʻŌhiʻa Lehua; Saturday, July 20 on Nature and Culture; Sunday, July 21 on Puʻu O Lokuana; Saturday, July 27 on the People and Land of Kahuku; and Sunday, July 28 on Palm Trail.

There are no entrance fees at Kahuku and all programs are free of charge.

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ENERGY GRANTS AND REBATES for small businesses are the subjects of a meeting on Wednesday, August 14 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Hale Iako, #119, 73-970 Makako Bay Dr, Kona.
Speakers from The Kohala Center, Hawaiʻi Energy, and USDA Rural Development will share information about grant, loan, and financial incentive programs available to help small businesses implement renewable energy systems and energy efficiency projects. The goal is to save the businesses money and contribute to a clean energy future for Hawaiʻi. Presented by The Kohala Center, in collaboration with Hawaiʻi Small Business Development Center with Hawaiʻi Energy and USDA Rural Development, with funding support from County of Hawaiʻi.
The cost to attend is $20, and advanced registration is required. Contact Dayna Omori at 808-333-5000 or dayna.omori@hisbdc.org with questions. Register online.

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GRANT AWARD APPLICATIONS are open for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Rural Energy for America Program. The cut-off date is Thursday, October 31, for grant awards totaling $20,000 or less. Eligible projects include renewable energy systems and energy efficiency improvements. Eligible applicants include agricultural producers and rural small businesses. For more information about this opportunity, refer to the program factsheet or visit the REAP webpage. Contact Megan Blazak at mblazak@kohalacenter.org for assistance with an application.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

SUNDAY, JULY 7

Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, July 7 – 1st Sunday, monthly – noon-2p.m., Manukā State Park. Anyone interested in learning about ham radio is welcome to attend. View sites.google.com/site/southpointarc or sites.google.
com/viewith southhawaiiares/home. Rick Ward, 938-3058

MONDAY, JULY 8

Ka‘ū Homeschool Co–op Group, Monday, July 8, 1p.m., contact for location. Parent-led homeschool activity and social group, building community in Ka‘ū. Laura Roberts, 406-249-3351

Couples Dinner, Monday-Friday, July 8-12, 4:30-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Followed by Couples Engagement, 6-8p.m. Hosted by Ocean View Baptist Church. Open to the public.

TUESDAY, JULY 9

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10

THURSDAY, JULY 11

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, July 11, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, JULY 12

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, July 12, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, JULY 13

Kīlauea Drama & Entertainment Network's Summer Musical: Rodgers and Hammerstein's Flower Drum Song, Friday-Saturday-Sunday, July 12-28, Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater. Tickets available at Kīlauea General Store, Kea‘au Natural Foods, Basically Books, The Most Irresistible Shop and at door. $20/general admission, $15/student or over 60, $12/age 12 and under. Park entrance fees may apply. 982-7344, kden73@aol.com, kden.org

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, July 13, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Nā Mamo o Kāwā ʻOhana Work Day, Saturday, July 13, meet 9:30a.m., Northern Gate, Kāwā. RSVP to James Akau, jakau@nmok.org, 561-9111. Bring a water bottle, lunch, closed toed shoes, long sleeved t-shirt, and pants. Tools, gloves, water, and light refreshments provided. nmok.org, facebook.com/NMOK.Hawaii

Writing from the Heart with Frances Kai-Hwa Wang, Saturday, July 13, 9:30a.m.-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. $65/VAC member, $75/non-member. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org, frances
kaihwawang.com

38th Annual Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Cultural Festival at Kahuku Unit, Saturday, July 13, 10a.m.-3p.m. Free. Live music, hula, and hands-on Hawaiian cultural activities and demonstrations. Food available for purchase. Visitors welcome to bring picnic lunch. nps.gov/havo

Soul Town Band performance, Saturday, July 13, 7-10p.m., Kīlauea Military Theater. $5 cover charge. Open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

ONGOING

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The bulls from South Point Buckers had a winning weekend as no paniolo could stay on board at the Fourth of
July Rodeo in Nāʻālehu. Photo by Julia Neal

TWO DAYS OF RODEO WRAPPED THE JULY 4 WEEKEND on Saturday and Sunday, filling the arena and the stands in Nāʻāhleu with ranching families and visitors. Kaʻū Roping & Riding Association put on its annual rodeo for paniola and paniolo of every age, from keiki to kupuna. Events included bull and calf riding, barrel racing, double mugging, and a race that includes jumping onto a horse, behind the rider. Rodeo clowns and rodeo photographers protected the competitors and documented the tradition.
The Nāʻālehu Rodeo includes rarely seen events such as Poʻo Wai U, which involves two paniolo tying a steer to a y-shaped tree trunk. The practice comes from rounding up cattle in the wilds of Hawaiʻi.

All Around Cowboy Bronson Bronco shows off his
prize buckle, eyed by his newborn. Photo by Julia Neal

Calling the rodeo was Larry Cabral. All Around Cowboy is Bronson Bronco. See all the results, names of sponsors, and more photos in upcoming Kaʻū News Briefs and the August edition of The Kaʻū Calendar.

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USDA FARM SERVICE AGENCY is seeking nominations for county committee members.
"Committee members are critical for the day-to-day operations of Farm Service Agency and help deliver federal farm programs at the local level," says a statement from The Kohala Center, which supports local agriculture.

The FSA encourages eligible applicants to participate in the upcoming county committee elections. All nomination forms for the 2019 election must be postmarked or received in the local USDA service center by Thursday, Aug. 1. For more information about eligibility and submission of nominations, refer to the agency's most recent newsletter or visit fsa.usda.gov/elections.

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Keiki roper with paniolo families encouraging the next generation of cowboy. Photo by Leilani Esperanza

HAWAI`I COUNTY CIVIL DEFENSE has issued a National Weather Service Flash Flood Watch for this island through Monday Night. Civil Defense sent out the following precautionary messages:

Onset of rains are forecast to begin tonight and continue through tomorrow night.

Those in flood prone areas, take action before nightfall to prepare for the possible effects of flash flooding and heavy rains. Flash Flooding is life threatening, do not cross fast flowing water. If lightning threatens, the safest place to be is indoors. If experiencing heavy rain or rising water, head to higher ground immediately.

Rodeo Queen and paniolo. Photo by Leilani Esperanza

The National Weather Service High Surf Advisory has been extended to Tuesday morning for east facing shores of Hawaii Island from North Kohala to Kau Districts. Expect strong breaking waves, dangerous shore break, and rip currents. Beach-goers, swimmers, and surfers should know their imits, exercise caution, and heed all advice given by ocean safety officials.

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THE COUNTY DISASTER RECOVERY WEBSITE for the 2018 Kīlauea eruption is online, to help communities, farmers, and businesses. The site contains information, resources, news, and an events calendar to help residents of Hawaiʻi County connect with recovery initiatives and support services. Visit recovery.hawaiicounty.gov to learn more.

Hawaiian flag bearer.
Photo by Leilani Esperanza

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HAWAIʻI ISLAND COMMUNITY FOOD SUMMIT happens Thursday, Sept. 26 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, Moku Ola Ballroom, 71 Banyan Dr., Hilo. The theme of the second annual summit is Local Food for Community Resilience: Feeding Hawaiʻi Now and for Future Generations. The event will include presentations, panels, educational exhibits, reflections from the first summit, and planning for the launch of the Hawaiʻi Island Food System Development
Plan in 2020. Presented by Hawaiʻi Island Food Alliance with funding support from USDA SNAP-Ed Program.

There is no cost to attend; however, registration is requested in advance, as space is limited. Contact Silvan Shawe at silvan.shawe@hawaiicounty.gov with questions. Visit hifoodalliance.org/2019foodsummit to learn more. Register online.

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American flag bearer.
Photo by Leilani Esperanza

FOOD SAFETY AND GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES workshop happens from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, August 3 at Māʻona Community Garden, 84-5097 Keala O Keawe Rd., in Captain Cook and Saturday, August 17 at Kohala Food Hub at Wishing Well, 55-230 Hōʻea Rd.in Hāwī.

Featuring Luisa F. Castro, Ph.D., agricultural food safety program manager for Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture, the session will share information about basic food safety guidelines, regulatory requirements, and risk management tools. Presented by The Kohala Center in collaboration with Hawaiʻi Dept. of Ag, Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United, Hawaiʻi Institute of Pacific Agriculture, and Māʻona Community Garden, with funding support from County of Hawaiʻi and U.S. Dept. of Ag Program 2501.
Admission is free. Registration is required by Wednesday, July 31. Contact Maile Woodhall mwoodhall@kohalacenter.org or 808-887-6411 with questions. Register online.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

MONDAY, JULY 8

Ka‘ū Homeschool Co–op Group, Monday, July 8, 1p.m., contact for location. Parent-led homeschool activity and social group, building community in Ka‘ū. Laura Roberts, 406-249-3351

Couples Dinner, Monday-Friday, July 8-12, 4:30-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Followed by Couples Engagement, 6-8p.m. Hosted by Ocean View Baptist Church. Open to the public.

TUESDAY, JULY 9Flameworking - An Introductory Class with Nash Adams-Pruitt, Tuesday, July 9, 5-8p.m., Volcano Art Center. $75/VAC member, $80/non-member, plus $40 supply fee. Class size limited. Register early. Advanced registration required. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10

THURSDAY, JULY 11

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, July 11, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, JULY 12

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, July 12, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, JULY 13

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, July 13, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Writing from the Heart with Frances Kai-Hwa Wang, Saturday, July 13, 9:30a.m.-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. $65/VAC member, $75/non-member. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org, franceskaihwawang.com

SUNDAY, JULY 14

Medicine for the Mind: Teachings in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition, Sunday, July 14 – 2nd Sunday, monthly – 3-5p.m., Volcano Art Center. Free; calabash donations welcome. Dress warmly. Patty Johnson, 345-1527

ONGOING

Enroll in Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool. Orientation for enrolled families begins Aug. 5 & 6, with programs continuing following week in Nā‘ālehu on Monday & Wednesday, 8:45-10:45am, and Pāhala, Tuesday & Thursday, 8:30-10:30am. Space is limited. pidfoundation.org

Experience Volcano is a group of businesses and residents helping to rebuild the economy of Volcano, following last year's volcanic disaster that shut down Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and drastically reduced the visitor county which is now recovering.

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Calf roping by teams and individuals becomes major action at the Nāʻālehu Fourth of July Rodeo last weekend.
Photos by Manu Yanha of Volcano School of the Arts & Sciences. See more photos below.

THE SHOOTING INCIDENT AT MANUKĀ STATE PARK on Friday, July 5 is under investigation by the Hawaiʻi Police Department and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. HPD asks for information from the public.

In the Kahuku Unit of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes, a National Park Service ranger approached a man who was driving a stolen car. The suspect fled to Manukā State Park, the ranger following him. At about 1 p.m., the suspect reportedly tried to leave Manukā and drove the car toward the ranger who fired his weapon, the bullet grazing the suspect's neck and striking his hand. The suspect fled and received treatment for minor injuries at Kona Community Hospital, according to the HPD report.
At 6:15 p.m., police arrested the suspect, 39-year-old David Gouveia, of Kona, charging him with "unauthorized control of a propelled vehicle." His bail was set at $2,000. He was released pending further investigations for attempted murder in the 2nd degree, involving his use of the car as a weapon against the park ranger.

A calf rider stays on board and wins the prize as rodeo clowns protect him. Photo by Julia Neal

Detectives from the Area II Criminal Investigations Section are working the case. Anyone with any information can call Detective Dominic Uyetake at 326-4646, ext. 228.

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THE HŪ HONUA BIOENERGY PLANT, which plans to burn farmed eucalyptus trees grown in Kaʻū for electricity to be sold to Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co., is the subject of outreach from the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi. The Democrats ask that the public submit comments by July 21 regarding Hū Honua's updated injection well permit.

A race that involves picking up a rider on the back of the horse.
Photo by Leilani Esperanza of Lahaina Luna

A message from the Democrats says, "We are currently in a 30-day comment period from the Safe Drinking Water Branch and the Commission on Water Resource Management regarding Hū Honua's application for updates to its Underground Injection Control (UIC) permits (Application UH 3051). We are asking that members of the Hawaiʻi County Democratic Party submit comments regarding this application, and request that the Department of Health hold a public hearing and that the comment period be extended to 30-day from the date of the public hearing."

At the 2018 State Democratic Convention, a resolution passed, calling Hū Honua Bioenergy an environmentally destructive project, with its wood burning plant located on the cliffs above the ocean north of Hilo. The latest Democratic Party messages says, "Given the passage of this resolution and that climate and environmental stewardship are key components of the DPH platform, we urge all environmentally conscious Democrats to submit a letter insisting that a public hearing take place covering the details of previously requested modeling and monitoring data, and that the comment period be extended. The 30-day comment period should commence following the date that modeling and monitoring data is presented to the public and only after any discussion addressing the concerns with the Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply have been completed."

A young barrel racer catches some air. Photo by Manu Yanha

The Democratic Party states that in Hū Honua's "original permit, the company asserted that discharged wastewater would be gravity-absorbed into three 400-ft.-deep injection wells. However, once the wells were built, they failed testing. Now, Hū Honua is applying for an updated permit to double the depth of the current wells. The updated permit requires a 30-day public comment period. However, neither Hū Honua nor the Department of Health has given the public anything meaningful to on which to comment. No studies of the possible consequences from deepening the wells have been released to the public, though the County Department of Water Supply requested in a March 12, 2019, letter that Hū Honua provide groundwater modeling as well as a monitoring plan for tracking water level and detecting contaminants. To date, Hū Honua has not provided either of these reports.

"The public comment period is our opportunity to weigh in on the proposed deepening of the wells. However, we do not currently have the information, as was requested by the DWS, that allows us to provide meaningful comments."

Horse leans in for the junior barrel racer. Photo by Manu Yanha

The Democratic Party asks that all comments be sent to all of the following:

inaba@hawaiidws.org, kokamoto@hawaiidws.org, joanna.seto@doh.hawaii.gov, sdwb@doh.hawaii.gov, bruce.s.
anderson@doh.hawaii.gov, dlnr.cwrm@hawaii.gov, albright.david@epa.gov, Clean
WaterBranch@doh.hawaii.gov;
norris.uehara@doh.hawaii.gov;
darryl.lum@doh.hawaii.gov;
shane.sumida@doh.hawaii.gov; kozelka.peter@epa.gov.
Hū Honua has changed its name to Honua Ola.

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A POWER SURGE CUT ELECTRICITY TO ABOUT 51,000 HELCO CUSTOMERS across the island at about 10:45 a.m. today. The outage included some 1,600 in Ocean View. It also took out many traffic lights on the island, with no problem for Kaʻū, since there is an absence of traffic signal lights here.

A horse that prances around the barrels. Photo by Manu Yanha

According to a release from Hawaiʻi Electric Light, faults on two transmission lines along the Hamakua Coast disconnected independent power producer Hamakua Energy from the grid, causing "a sudden loss of generation." Service to most customers was restored by 11:15 a.m. All customers had power restored by about 1:30 p.m.

"The cause of the line faults is under investigation but it's likely they were caused by wind gusts blowing tree debris onto lines" says the release. HELCO spokesperson Kristen Okinaka said the surge was likely caused by the approaching heavy weather of former Hurricane Barbara.

The utility urges the community to keep safety top of mind. Steady rain and flooding can uproot trees and break branches, which can fall on power lines and snap utility poles. Always assume that downed power lines are energized and dangerous, and stay at least 30 feet away.

Report downed lines and power outages to the Trouble Desk at (808) 969-6666. Outage information and updates are posted on Hawai‘i Electric Light's Twitter account @HIElectricLight.

A Hawaiʻi Police Department report said that a power surge left large portions of Hawaiʻi Island without electricity. HPD urged residents in areas with nonworking traffic signals to drive with extra care and stay away from those roads.

Flooding in a gulch off Lau today.
Photo by Michael Worthington

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THE REMNANTS OF TROPICAL STORM BARBARA sent heavy rains to Kaʻū today, with rushing waters in streams and gorges. High surf pounded east and south-facing Hawaiʻi Island shores with very strong breaking waves, and strong longshore and rip currents.

The Flash Flood Watch for Hawaiʻi Island was canceled this evening, as Barbara's remnants are passing south of the island.

The National Weather Service urges swimmers to "be aware of your swimming abilities; do not enter the water as dangerous currents and breaking waves may be hazardous. When in doubt, don't go out."

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A calf and horse collide at the rodeo.
Photo by Manu Yanha

3D MAMMOGRAMS will be available in Hilo at Hawaiʻi Radiologic Associates, Ltd., starting Aug. 1. This is the only location on Hawaiʻi Island that offers this newer technology.

HiRad.com states, "3D mammography produces multiple X-ray images of the breasts to create a digital 3-dimensional rendering of breast tissue. This allows radiologists to view the breast in 1-millimeter 'slices' rather than just the image from the top and side. This technology is particularly helpful for screening women with dense breasts. More than half of Hawaiʻi women have dense breasts. Women with dense tissue are four to five times more likely to develop breast cancer." The U.S. Food & Drug Administration approved the technology in 2011.

Said HRA president Dr. David Camacho, "Since the early 1980s, HRA has been the leader of breast imaging on Hawaii Island. While this was a substantial investment for us, we believe the 3D mammography will better serve our patients. We believe that bringing 3D mammography to the BigIsland will enable us to find more cancers earlier, leading to a better outcome for the women of this island."

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THE ANNUAL NĀʻĀLEHU FOURTH OF JULY BUCKLE RODEO last weekend produced many winners and thrilling action for spectators who witnessed a true Hawaiian family gathering of ranchers and spectators. See more photos and the complete results this week in the Kaʻū News Briefs.

Po Wai U, a traditional way to round up cattle in the wild, is a rodeo event in Nāʻālehu. Photos by Leilani Esperanza

FLIGHTS FROM KONA TO KAHULUI, MAUI FOR $49 each way in August and September are offered by Makani Kai Air. The new interisland route is four round-trip flights per day, offered for the introductory price from Aug.1 through 31, for flights from Aug. 1 through Sept. 30. Reservations must be made at makanikaiair.com. Regular priced 45 minute flights in nine-passenger Cessna Grand Caravans will be $75 each way.

Said Richard Schuman, owner of Makani Kai Air, "The people of Molokaiand Maui are the reason that we're growing. Many of our customers have asked us to open up a Kahului - Kona route, and we believe that the move makes sense. Our fixed fare strategy is winning converts People appreciate the fact that they can plan ahead knowing the airfare won't change. It will remain the same on weekends, holidays or any other time."

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

TUESDAY, JULY 9

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10

THURSDAY, JULY 11

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, July 11, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, JULY 12

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, July 12, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, JULY 13

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, July 13, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Writing from the Heart with Frances Kai-Hwa Wang, Saturday, July 13, 9:30a.m.-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. $65/VAC member, $75/non-member. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org, franceskaihwawang.com

SUNDAY, JULY 14

MONDAY, JULY 15

Monday Movie Night: Fire & Sand (Local Documentary), Monday, July 15, 7p.m., $5 donation suggested. Popcorn and snacks available for purchase. Bring cushion. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

ONGOING

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Kaʻū cowgirls and recent high school graduates Lorilee Lorenzo and Kianie Medeiros in the Wahine Mugging at

last weekend's Fourth of July Rodeo, sponsored by Kaʻū Roping & Riding Association.

See more photos and the results and sponsors, below. Photo by Chuck McKeand

THE VETO OF A BILL TO PREVENT SEIZING AND SELLING ASSETS from people arrested but not convicted of a crime, drew quick response today from Rep. Joy A. San Buenaventura, who represents Puna. Buenaventura introduced House Bill 748 into the state House of Representatives. She said, "I am very disappointed in this veto as are so many people and organizations fighting to protect the rights and property of our residents. This bill would have required a criminal conviction before law enforcement could forfeit property, and any forfeiture revenue would be directed into the state's general fund, not into police and prosecutor's office budgets, which is a clear conflict of interest.
"With the recent corruption convictions we have seen in Hawai‘i, lawmakers must work hard to ensure residents that their public officials follow clear ethical guidelines when doing their jobs. If signed, this bill would have helped to show that people really are treated equally and fairly in Hawai‘i."

Bull aims for rodeo photographer Chuck McKeand. Photo by Julia Neal

The governor gave his rationale for vetoing the bill: it is an "effective and critical law enforcement tool." He does not want misdemeanor crimes that "negatively impact our society, natural resources, and environment" removed from eligibility from civil asset forfeiture. Ige also remarked that safeguards already in place are sufficient to "prevent the abuses cited in the bill."

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Wahine Mugging winners Macy Loando and Shannon
Benevides show their buckles with a rodeo sponsor,
Nancy Cabral. Photo by Julia Neal

GOV. DAVID IGE TODAY VETOED 18 BILLS THAT PASSED THE 2019 HAWAI‘I LEGISLATURE. Two additional bills will become law without Ige's signature. Senate Bill 551 will allow condominium associations to conduct non-judicial foreclosures. SB33 will raise the ceiling on tax credits for the film industry. The governor vetoed the following:

SB1292, would have required booking platforms like AirBnB, Expedia, and Booking.com to collect Transient Accommodations Taxes and General Excise Taxes, and remit them to the state, instead of relying on the property owners to pay the state.

SB1353 would have allowed hemp to be legally cultivated to manufacture such products as clothing, rope, and other items.

House Bill 290 would have allowed transport of medical marijuana between islands by individuals with licenses for their personal use.

HB1276 would have established, in the public school system, more learning time for students and more prep time for teachers.

HB748 would have prohibited civil asset forfeiture only after felony convictions – see story, above.

SB1459 would have set up a commission to help boost Hawaiʻi's native sport of surfing in Hawaiʻi and worldwide.

SB301 would have changed how Real Estate Investment Taxes are collected, in order for the state to collect much more revenue from those investors who escape paying much of the taxes on their earnings here.

HB407 would have changed how the Board of Education can terminate a Dept. of Education complex area superintendent.

Winners and sponsors: Kevin Medeiros and Kelly Medeiros show off their winning buckles for the Open Dally
competition. To their right are Century Team Roping buckle winners Wayne Miranda and Mac Castillo from
Miranda Store, a sponsor of the rodeo, along with CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union and many others.
Photo by Julia Neal

HB1032 would have established a state boating facility at Manele Small Boat Harbor on Lanaʻi.

HB1133 would have limited commercial use permits for Molokini Shoal marine life conservation district.

SB1423 would have created a 24/7 criminal bail system.

SB1530 would have changed source of funding for Hawaiʻi Community Development Authority staff.

HB629 would have change procedure for prisoners to apply for medical release.

SB92 would have changed access to police reports after criminal and civil proceedings conclude.

HB702 would have prevented selling GPS information without property owners' permission.

HB323 would have allowed civilians to register certain former, classic military vehicles and allow them to be operated on public roadways.

Makayla Awa and Kevin Hill take home buckles for Kane-Wahine Dally.
Photo by Julia Neal

SB1405 would have required educators to confiscate electronic smoking devices from minors under 21.

Ige said the veto of HB655, naming September as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, will be corrected by executive order for 2019, and be reintroduced in the legislature in 2020.

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HAWAIʻI IS LAUDED AS A LEADER IN SUSTAINABLE ENERGY STORAGE. During today's hearing of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee's Subcommittee on Energy, Sen. Mazie Hirono highlighted Hawaiʻi's ongoing efforts toward "finding ways to cut pollution and use high amounts of renewable power."
She stated that renewable power is at 27 percent statewide, and that Hawaiian Electric is pursuing six new combined solar and storage projects in the islands, enough to serve 105,000 homes.
Said Hirono, "I think we need a similar focus nationwide. S. 1593, the Promoting Grid Storage Act of 2019… will provide over $1 billion over five years to accelerate the research, development, and demonstration of energy storage technologies, while helping organizations or communities design and develop energy storage systems to meet their needs."

Opening of the Fourth of July Rodeo in Nāʻālehu with the flags of Hawaiʻi and the

U.S.A.

Hirono specifically noted the success of the Lawai Solar Energy Plus Storage Facility on Kauaʻi, currently the largest solar generation plus storage project in the world.
Hirono is also a cosponsor of S. 1142, the Energy Storage Tax Incentive and Deployment Act of 2019, which would provide a 30 percent federal tax credit for the purchase of energy storage systems. She also helped introduce S.1288, the Clean Energy for America Act. The bill would reform the federal tax code to help support a low-carbon economy.

All Around Cowboy is Bronson Branco, the event sponsored by B&E Propane.

Open Dally winners are Kelvin Mederios and Kelly Mederios, the event sponsored by Miranda Country Store.

Kane-Wahine Dally winners are Kevin Hill and Makayla Awa, the event sponsored by The Pet Hospital and Aiona Car Sales.

Century Team Roping winners are Wayne Miranda and Mac Castillo, the event sponsored by C&F Trucking.

All Around Cowboy Bronson Branco, holding his infant, with Trysin Kailawa,
who joined him to win Ranch Mugging. Photo by Julia Neal

Ranch Mugging winners are Chris Awa, Bronson Branco, and Trisyn Kalawaia, the event sponsored by the Wroblewski ʻOhana.

Double Mugging winners are Bronson Branco and Kevin Hill, the event sponsored by Moana Wroblewski and Mona Wroblewski.

Kane Wahine Ribbon Mugging winners are Bronson Branco and Macey Loando, the event sponsored by Four K Ranch.

Wahine Mugging winners are Shannon Benevides and Macey Loando, the event sponsored by Aikane Plantaion and Kaʻū Andrade Contracting.

Rescue Race first place goes to Bronson Branco and Makayla Awa, the event sponsored by Kaiser Motorcycles.

Poʻo Wai U first place goes to Bronson Branco, the event sponsored by Punaluʻu Bakeshop.

Tie Down winner is Trisyn Kalawaia, the event sponsored by Paradise Massage.

Wahine Breakaway winner is Macey Loando, the event sponsored by Waimea Hill Country & Tack.

Youth Barrels winner is KyleeAnn Holland, the event sponsored by MJ Ranch.

The lasso comes up quickly as the calf bolts from the shoot.

Photo by Manu Yanha

Dummy Roping, 4 and under, winner is Trevor Ching, the event sponsored by Zira Wroblewski.

Dummy Roping 5 to 8 winner is Ryder Tavares, the event sponsored by Zir-Rae Wroblewski.

Goat Undecorating, 4 and Under winner is Paisley Mastumoto, the event sponsored by Patrick "Buddy" Kailiawa.

Goat Undecorating, 5 to 8, winner is Blais Hill, the event sponsored by Pāhala Pops.
Calf Riding winner is Keegan Malicki, the event sponsored by Malicki Ranch.

The bulls from South Point Buckers once again won over all the humans who attempted to ride them. The event sponsor was Day Lum Rentals. An overall sponsor is CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union.

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Bull rider underfoot, as a South Point Bucker wins the event for the bulls. Photo by Julia Neal

SUPPORTING HAWAIʻI WOMEN FARMERS AND RANCHERS is the focus of the Health and Safety Initiative. Created by Oʻahu Resource Conservation & Development Council, its purpose is to encourage networking, provide resources and information, and empower women who ranch and farm in Hawaiʻi, issuing information "that can better your business and self, sustaining women agriculture enterprises for the long term."

The Initiative Facebook reads, "We are hoping to connect folks and are excited to see friendships form between women who understand the intricacies of being a farmer. If you know a woman farmer, feel free to invite them to join this page and connect." #farmher

For more information, contact Oʻahu Resource Conservation and Development (808) 622-9026.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

2019 Kaʻū High School Athletics through August
See khpes.org/athletics-home for details and updates; Bowling TBA.

Football, Division II:
Mon., July 15, first day Conditioning, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Mon., July 22, first day Full Pads, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Sat., Aug. 24, 1 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kamehameha

Girls Volleyball, Kaʻū District Gym:
Mon., July 29, 3 to 5 p.m., first day practice
Tue., Aug. 20, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Hilo
Fri., Aug. 23, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts St. Joseph
Wed., Aug. 28, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kohala

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

WEDNESDAY, JULY 10

THURSDAY, JULY 11

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, July 11, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, JULY 12

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, July 12, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, JULY 13

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, July 13, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Writing from the Heart with Frances Kai-Hwa Wang, Saturday, July 13, 9:30a.m.-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. $65/VAC member, $75/non-member. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org, franceskaihwawang.com

SUNDAY, JULY 14

MONDAY, JULY 15

Monday Movie Night: Fire & Sand (Local Documentary), Monday, July 15, 7p.m., $5 donation suggested. Popcorn and snacks available for purchase. Bring cushion. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

TUESDAY, JULY 16

The Wonderful World of Wine & Watercolor, Tuesday, July 16, 4-7p.m, Volcano Art Center.

$30/VAC member, $35/non-member, $17 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

After Dark in the Park -Texas Rancher and Painter Alice Leese, HVNP July Artist in Residence, Tuesday, July 16, 7p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. While in the park, Leese – who works her family’s 100-year-old ranch – will feel the volcanic panoramas, plants, and animals, then share her artistic interpretations with the public. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

ONGOING

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An opportunity to travel the old Peter Lee Road between Pāhala and Volcano is offered in August.
See story below. Photo from Volcano Community Foundation

THE ʻŌHIʻA CHALLENGE AWARD goes to Dr. Ryan Perroy, of University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. He wins a $70,000 prize for his innovations to combat Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Ecologist David Benitez announced the winner at the Hawai‘i Conservation Conference in Honolulu this afternoon, saying, "Innovative solutions such as Dr. Perroy's are a key to stopping the spread of ROD and saving our cherished ‘ōhiʻa for future generations. The ecological and cultural importance of ʻōhi‘a cannot be overstated. We were encouraged by the many high-quality submissions we received for this Challenge."

Closeup of an ʻōhiʻa blossom unfurling. Photo by Janice Wei/NPS

In addition to Perroy's winning solution, two non-monetary Honorable Mentions were awarded: Lauralea Oliver, with K9inSCENTive, LLC, for her proposal to use trained dogs and handlers to detect ROD; and Miguel Castrence, with Resource Mapping Hawaiʻi, for his proposal to use fixed wing airplanes and high-resolution sensors to map ROD across large areas.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, one of the partners in the Challenge, issued a statement today, describing Perroy's work as "an innovative strategy to use unmanned aircraft systems and remote sensing devices to detect a fungus decimating Hawaiian forests."

Since 2014, when it was first discovered, Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death has killed hundreds of thousands of mature ‘ōhi‘a trees (Metrosideros polymorpha) on Hawai‘i Island. The fungus was recently detected on Kaua‘i and Maui. ROD is caused by two invasive fungi, Ceratocystis huliohia and Ceratocystis lukuohia, that if left unstopped, could irreversibly change Hawaiian ecosystems and cultural traditions by eliminating the keystone native tree in Hawaiian forests.

Perroy is an associate professor at UHH, and principle investigator with the Spatial Data Analysis & Visualization lab, a research unit applying geospatial tools to local environmental problems in Hawai‘i and the Pacific region. Perroy's solution uses high-resolution cameras and other sensors to improve early detection of ROD across forests, including areas where signs of ROD may not yet be visible to the naked eye. "This solution will buy managers precious time to respond to outbreaks, and will give scientists better information on how the disease spreads," says the statement.

Dr. Ryan Perroy (center) wins the $70,000 ‘Ōhi‘a Challenge at the Hawai‘i

Conservation Conference this afternoon. To his right is Hawai‘i Volcanoes

ecologist David Benitez. On his left is Stanton Enomoto of the Dept. of

the Interior's Office of Native Hawaiian Relations. NPS photo

A second component to his solution is to use a drone to collect samples from the canopy of suspect trees for laboratory analysis, thus increasing the chances of detecting the fungus, and saving time and effort of crews sampling on the ground in often challenging environments.

Susan Combs, U.S. Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management, and Budget, said, "The best answers to problems are not always the ones we think up on our own. We need innovative solutions like Dr. Perroy's submission to help us nurture the land for the next generations. Collaborative conservation is an important tool for successfully fulfilling our responsibilities to protect our nation's forests, watersheds, and other natural resources."

Conservation X Labs, the U.S. Department of the Interior's Office of Native Hawaiian Relations, the National Invasive Species Council Secretariat, and the National Park Service partnered on the ʻŌhiʻa Challenge to identify novel technological solutions to ROD. The $70,000 challenge was offered to create innovative and low-cost solutions to detect the invasion pathways and the spread of ROD-causing fungi in the environment. Fifty-six applications were received from solvers across multiple U.S.states as well as from European and African countries.

Young ʻōhiʻa tree in bloom. Photo by Janice Wei/NPS

Alex Deghan, CEO and founder of Conservation X Labs, praised Perroy's innovative solution: "We believe that exponential technologies and novel innovations are necessary to turn the tide on the growing rate of biodiversity loss. Open innovation competitions like The ‘Ōhi‘a Challenge provide an opportunity to source and scale such transformative solutions. Dr. Perroy's solution deploying multi-spectral imaging to detect asymptomatic trees at a landscape level has the potential to help save ‘ōhi‘a from extinction. Not only could his work tackle a critical problem in Hawai‘i, but it could also yield incredible new developments in tracking fungal pathogens that threaten vital plant and agricultural species globally," Deghan said.

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CONSTRUCTION OF THE THIRTY METER TELESCOPE ON MAUNA KEA BEGINS MONDAY, announced Gov. David Ige today. The telescope project has weathered opposition all the way to the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court, with a group of Native Hawaiians and their supporters contending that the telescope will desecrate a spiritual site. Many opponents of TMT spoke at the Hawaiʻi County Council meeting on Monday, July 8.

Said Gov. David Ige today, "At this time our number one priority is everyone's safety. As construction begins, I continue to be committed to engaging with people holding all perspectives on this issue and to making meaningful changes that further contribute to the co-existence of culture and science on Mauna Kea."

The state Department of Transportation reported today that to "ensure the safety and security of the public and personnel involved in moving equipment," Mauna Kea Access Road, and other roads or lanes, will close to the public starting July 15, with no end date given. Some hunting areas in the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve area will also close.

A new ʻahu, erected near Mauna Kea's summit, on the

Summer Solstice, the day after four other

Hawaiian cultural structures were removed

by the state. Photo from Leinaʻala Sleightholm

"So that construction of the telescope can begin safely" was the reason Ige gave last month for the removal of four "unauthorized structures" near the summit. Two ʻahu, temples, were removed. Mauna Kea ʻOhana said in a statement that "the State destroyed and desecrated ʻahu as a direct attack against our cultural practices and rights." See more details of the removal of ʻahu at Mauna Kea on June 20 and 21 Kaʻū News Briefs.

Hawaiʻi County Police Chief Paul Ferreira said road closures and other actions made by law enforcement due to the project "will be in the best interest of the community, the safety of the community, the protectors, the protesters, the construction workers, and more so our law enforcement officers that are on scene."

A group against the TMT project, led by Kealoha Pisciotta of Mauna Kea Ainaina Hou, filed a lawsuit on July 8 to demand the project be stopped until a security bond of between $1.4 and $2 billion is submitted for the project. Said Pisciotta, "By failing to post the bond, they have laid all financial liability on the People of Hawaiʻi, in the event the TMT doesn't get full funding."

Pisciotta also said project managers may not be able to "return the land back to its original state" if the bond isn't submitted. The suit names the State of Hawaiʻi, Board of Land and Natural Resources and the individual governors, the University of Hawaiʻi, the TMT International Observatory, Ige, Attorney General Clare Conners, UH President David Lassner, and Hawaiʻi County Mayor Harry Kim.

Chair of the Thirty Meter Telescope International Observatory Board of Governors, Henry Yang, Ph.D., said the project has "all the necessary clearances." He said TIO has reached out to the community, learning of the "unique importance of Maunakea to all." He said they are committed to "being good stewards" and being "inclusive of the Hawaiian community." He referred to Hawai‘i's long history of pioneering in "the art and science of astronomy and navigation. We are deeply committed to integrating science and culture on Maunakea and in Hawai‘i, and to enriching educational opportunities and the local economy.

"We acknowledge those who disagree with our project and express our respect for their views," said Yang.

The $1.4 billion telescope is designed to be the most powerful and advanced telescope on the planet. See more at tmt.org, facebook.com/TMTHawaii or @TMTHawaii.

Details of the Thirty Meter Telescope. Image from tmt.org

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A RARE EXPLORATION OF KAʻŪ HISTORY in the late 1800s will be offered by the Volcano Community Foundation in August. Participants will travel the Peter Lee Road that runs between Pāhala and Volcano, inland from Highway 11. The Peter Lee Road is named on topographic maps of Kaʻū District, shown as a pair of dashed lines. Built in 1888, this carriage road was mainly intended to transport people from Pāhala to Volcano House Hotel, perched on the rim of Kīlauea Caldera. Intrepid travelers would come by ship to Punaluʻu Bay and take a boat to the landing, where they would ride a plantation train to Pāhala before starting up the carriage road.

Martha Hoverson, retired librarian and a volunteer for the Cultural Resources Management Division of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, researched the history of the road and the man who

built it. She will give a presentation entitled Peter Lee and the Road Ahead at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 8 at Volcano Art Center's Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village.

Peter Lee. Photo from
Volcano Community Foundation

In her talk, she will discuss the role that Peter Lee, an immigrant from Norway, played in the early development of tourism in Hawaiʻi. He owned a hotel in Punaluʻu, served as a popular manager of Volcano House Hotel from 1891 to 1898, and later opened his own Crater Hotel, located near the Volcano School of Arts and Sciences campus on Old Volcano Road.
The presentation, sponsored by Volcano Community Foundation in conjunction with Volcano Art Center, will provide a glimpse of the Volcano area and Kaʻū during a pivotal time in Hawaiʻi's history. There is no charge for this program, although donations will be accepted.
A tour of Kapapala Ranch on Saturday, Aug. 24, at 9:30 a.m., hosted by Volcano Community Foundation, will give participants a chance to experience parts of the Peter Lee Road firsthand and learn more about the rich history of both the ranch and the road. The program will conclude with a catered gourmet lunch and an optional walk on a portion of the Peter Lee Road. Fee for the tour and lunch is $50. Limited spots available; advance registration required. Email volcanocommunity@gmail.com or call (808) 895-1011. A signup sheet will also be available at the Aug. 8 Peter Lee presentation. Registration confirmation and additional program information will be emailed prior to the tour.
The Volcano Community Foundation is a non-profit, 501(c)3 charitable organization.

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RECREATIONAL PAKALOLO IS DECRIMINALIZED in Hawaiʻi as of Jan. 11, 2020. Gov. David Ige allowed House Bill 1383 to become law without his signature, on Tuesday. West Kaʻū's Rep. Richard Creagan helped introduce the bill.

Recreational marijuana becomes legal in January. Adults over 21
can possess up to three grams - an amount much smaller than
shown here. Image from DrugAbuse.com

The new law allows adults 21 and over to possess up to three gram of marijuana, without a medical marijuana prescription, and suffer only a $130 fine instead of criminal prosecution and jail time. The law will allow criminal record expungement for possession adult possession of 3 grams or less of pot. It will also set up and pay for a temporary task force to evaluate and recommend changes to marijuana use penalties.

Hawaiʻi joins 25 other states to decriminalize pot, but at the lowest amount of any other state. Most states permit individual recreational possession of up to 28 grams, or one ounce. Washington, D.C., allows up to two ounces, or 56 grams.

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THE OPIOID CRISIS ACCOUNTABILITY BILL has been submitted to the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Tulsi Gabbard and to the U.S. Senate by Sen. Bernie Sanders. Gabbard released a statement today saying, "It's time to hold Big Pharma opioid pushers, like Purdue Pharmaceuticals, accountable for the opioid crisis they helped cause. That's why Senator Bernie Sanders and I have written and introduced a sweeping, bicameral bill to hold top pharma execs criminally liable for their role in creating the crisis.

Infographic from HHS.com

"Other bills passed in Congress address the painful realities of addiction. But what about the root causes of that addiction – corporate greed and corruption? The bill Bernie and I introduced goes after the companies that pushed doctors to overprescribe opioids, marketed them with lies, and hid the highly addictive nature of their drugs. Our bill would cancel the tax credits these companies currently get, and instead require them to pay the country back for the cost of the epidemic they caused. Our bill gives the fight against opioid addiction some teeth – and it's the kind of legislation I'd push Congress to pass and then sign into law as president."

Gabbard asks for supporters to sign on as a citizen co-sponsor of The Opioid Crisis Accountability Act.

She contended that "Every piece of Congressional legislation impacting the opioid crisis has been influenced by Big Pharma through lobbying. The drug industry's hijacking of our government has been extremely pervasive, with $102 million spent on lobbying in 2014-16 alone. Some members of Congress even allied with them to sneak an industry-friendly bill through Congress without a recorded vote that watered down the DEA's ability to crack down on the spread of opioids on the street."

"I'm not in the pocket of Big Pharma. I have the heart of a soldier, not a career politician," proclaimed Gabbard.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

THURSDAY, JULY 11

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, July 11, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, JULY 12

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, July 12, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Kīlauea Drama & Entertainment Network's Summer Musical: Rodgers and Hammerstein's Flower Drum Song, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., July 12 through 28 at Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater. Tickets are available at Kīlauea General Store, Kea‘au Natural Foods, Basically Books, The Most Irresistible Shop, and at door. $20/general admission, $15/student or over 60, $12/age 12 and under. Park entrance fees may apply. 982-7344, kden73@aol.com, kden.org

SATURDAY, JULY 13

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, July 13, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Writing from the Heart with Frances Kai-Hwa Wang, Saturday, July 13, 9:30a.m.-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. $65/VAC member, $75/non-member. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org, franceskaihwawang.com

Meeting on Childcare for Kaʻū Coffee Farm Workers, the Keiki OʻPalehua ʻOhana Program, happens Saturday July 13, 3 p.m., at Kaʻū District Gym's ActivityCenter. All Kaʻū farmers encouraged to attend. Childcare with educational activities will focus in part on the Marshallese community, which provides much labor for the coffee industry and is in need of childcare.

Discussion will also include progress on the building; securing additional in-kind donations; assistance from the County Department of Research and Development; recruiting farm worker families to participate in the program; and insurance coverage. Also on the agenda are the time-table for launching and starting the program; and planning the Grand Opening Celebration.
For more information, contact Diaz at 928-8188.

SUNDAY, JULY 14

MONDAY, JULY 15

Monday Movie Night: Fire & Sand (Local Documentary), Monday, July 15, 7p.m., $5 donation suggested. Popcorn and snacks available for purchase. Bring cushion. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

TUESDAY, JULY 16

The Wonderful World of Wine & Watercolor, Tuesday, July 16, 4-7p.m, Volcano Art Center. $30/VAC member, $35/non-member, $17 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, July 17, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Learn About Water Law and how to advocate for water at a Dept. of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries meeting at PāhalaCommunity Center on Wednesday, July 17, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ka Huli Alo will provide a brief overview of Hawaiʻi legal framework governing water resource management. It will be followed by a discussion on "how homestead communities can advocate for pono, righteous, use and protection of wai, water," says the announcement.

ONGOING

ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon, 5K, and Keiki Dash happens Saturday, July 27 in Volcano Village, It replaces the Volcano Rain Forest Runs. Register at ohialehuahalf.com.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

Park trail crew worker Thomas Hughes looks back towards Nāpau Overlook from the base of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō.

NPS photo/Greg Santos

A LONGER NĀPAU CRATER HIKING TRAIL IS OPEN. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park made the announcement today and reviewed the recent history.

Before the eruption last year, Nāpau Trail meandered seven miles through geologically rich wilderness and ended at Nāpau Crater Overlook. From the overlook, hikers could watch the then-active Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō eruption, and camp nearby. After the eruption Hawai‘i Volcanoes extended the trail two miles, taking it past the campground, across Nāpau Crater to the base of the vent. The trial is now nine miles, one way.

‘Āma‘u ferns and cinder landscape of Nāpau Crater. NPS photo/Greg Santos

Acting Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Superintendent Rhonda Loh said, "We are excited to reopen more of the park to backpackers now that Kīlauea is quiet and Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō vent is no longer an eruption hazard. Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō vent will remain closed due to its steep and unstable flanks, but hikers will be able to walk right up to its base."
Features on the moderately difficult hike include volcanic craters, historic eruption sites, a primitive tree fern factory, native rainforest, and fragile lava tree molds. There is no water available at the campground, and all overnight camping requires a backcountry permit. Because of its remote location, day hikers on Nāpau Trail must sign in at the trailhead near the Mauna Ulu parking lot.

For more information on Nāpau Trail and how to obtain a backcountry permit for overnight camping, visit nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/hike_napau.htm. Additional disaster recovery continues in the Park, which sustained serious damage from the 60,000 earthquakes that shook Kīlauea between April 30 and Aug. 4, 2018. The public is encouraged to stay informed of the recovery progress by checking nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes.

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Volcano Winery owners Marie and Del Bothof at last year's record-breaking,
sold-out event. Photo by Aubrey Hawk

VOLCANO WINERY'S ANNUAL FUNDRAISING HARVEST FESTIVAL tickets go on sale Aug. 1 at volcanowinery.com or (808) 967-7772. Proceeds benefit VolcanoSchool of Arts & Sciences.

This sixth festive evening of live music, fo

od, wines and craft beers under the stars happens Sunday, Sept. 8, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The $50 per person tickets include live music entertainment by Young Brothers; delicious food and drink from local restaurants; award-winning wines and teas from the Volcano Winery; tours of the vineyards and a huge raffle.

Last year's sell-out event raised a record $10,000, which funded student transportation to real-world study sites. According to school Principal Kalima Kinney, this year's Harvest Festival has a special fundraising mission: to sustain and expand the school's Healthy Food Program and Food Sustainability initiatives.

Said Kinney, "Nutritious food is a foundation for successful learning and VolcanoSchool has been proud to offer students free, healthy breakfast and lunch for every student every day. We're also dedicated to using local products in student meals to support local farmers and food sustainability efforts to reduce our school and community's reliance on imported food."

The crew from Eagle's Lighthouse, one of the many local
restaurateurs featured at the 2018 Harvest Festival.
Photo by Aubrey Hawk

Deland Marie Bothof, owners of Volcano Winery, said, "It's been our pleasure for six years now to host this magical event for VolcanoSchool. We're especially excited that proceeds from this year's ‘ono food and wine festival will support local students with nutrition needed for optimal learning, as well as help our community become more resilient and self-reliant."

VolcanoSchool of Arts & Sciences is a Hawaiian-focused public charter school dedicated to the mission of learning through Volcano's unique natural and cultural resources to become creative global citizens. VSAS is accepting enrollment applications for the 2019-2020 school year, which starts Aug. 5; orientation for new students is Aug. 2. Spaces are available in 1st through 8th grades of the expanding Kula ‘Amakihi Community-Based Education (CBE) Program; the school may also have space or short wait lists for certain grades in the regular on-campus programs. Contact 808-985-9800, or email enrollment@volcanoschool.net to enroll.

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WHILE OFFERING SOME OF THE LOWEST HOMEOWNER TAX RATES IN THE COUNTRY, HAWAIʻI is far from the most affordable place to establish a first home, according to a WalletHub study. Based on statistics from Honolulu, WalletHub reports homeowner property taxes are 12.9 times lower than in the city with the highest property taxes: Waterbury, Connecticut.
However, property tax savings in Honolulu are offset by many other expenses. In a WalletHub survey of 300 cities nationwide, Honoluluranks 270th in the affordability of purchasing a home, 300th in energy affordability, and 276th in cost of living.

With the country's highest monthly average household energy bills, at $388.65, the cost of energy is 4.2 times higher than in Shreveport, Louisiana, which boasts the lowest monthly energy cost, at $93.58.

Historically, July is one of the top months for home sales. To determine the best places to buy a first home, the data set ranges from housing affordability to real-estate tax rate to property-crime rate.

Growing limu in the ocean using only sustainable, natural resources
is the plan of Kampachi farm. Photo from kampachifarm.com

See the report at wallethub.com/edu/best-and-worst-cities-for-first-time-home-buyers/5564.

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GROWING LIMU AS A SUSTAINABLE FOOD AND FUEL SOURCE, USING RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES, is being researched by Kampachi Farms. Its Macroalgae Research Inspiring Novel Energy Resources team. MARINER is applying for a three-year federal permit and $1 million grant from the Department of Energy to deploy the Blue Fields Offshore Macroalgae (limu) Demonstration Project. This seaweed demonstration project planned for offshore waters adjacent to PawaiBay and the OldAirportCountyRecreationPark, in Kona.

The submersible growing platform will be approximately 1.5 nautical miles offshore and will normally be below the water surface. The proposed demonstration array will be moored to the ocean bottom at about 120m (400 ft) of water, which should mean that there are no significant impacts on water quality, coral reefs, or dolphin resting activity.

Kampachi farm at NEHLA. Photo from kampachifarm.com

The demonstration aims to prove this type of cultivation is sustainable, using only the energy that exists in the natural environment: wind, wave, current, and solar. The project will culture only native or endemic Hawaiian macroalgae species, such as limu. The suitability of a few other native species is being testing in on-shore trials at the Kampachi Farms' research yard at the Natural Energy Laboratory.

See kampachifarm.com/projects. Read the full Draft Environmental Assessment.

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A NEW COURT CASE ON THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT sparked responses from Hawaiʻi's U.S.Senators.

Sen. Brian Schatz said the Trump administration is going to federal court "to try to gut the entire Affordable Care Act. Not just pre-existing conditions, not just Medicaid expansion. The whole thing. Today I'm standing for… all Americans who rely on the ACA, to say we cannot let this happen."

Sen. Mazie Hirono said she is "fighting against Trump and Republican efforts to undermine and repeal the Affordable Care Act. Health care is personal to every single American. I, along with millions of other Americans, have a pre-existing condition. The Republican crusade to eliminate health care for millions of Americans is inexplicable, cruel, and downright dumb."

She said the Texascourt case, Texas v. Azar, "led by 18 Republican Attorneys General and Bill Barr," challenges the ACA as unconstitutional.

Said Hirono, "I will keep fighting to protect health care for the nearly 20 million Americans who stand to lose their health insurance if the law is repealed, and the 130 million Americans with pre-existing conditions."

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FLOWER DRUM SONG, Kīlauea Drama & Entertainment Network's Summer Musical, runs Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., July 12 through 28, at Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater. Tickets for the Rodgers and Hammerstein's musical are available at Kīlauea General Store, Kea‘au Natural Foods, Basically Books, The Most Irresistible Shop, and at door. $20/general admission, $15/student or over 60, $12/age 12 and under. Park entrance fees may apply. 982-7344, kden73@aol.com, kden.org.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

FRIDAY, JULY 12

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, July 12, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, July 13, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Writing from the Heart with Frances Kai-Hwa Wang, Saturday, July 13, 9:30a.m.-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. $65/VAC member, $75/non-member. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org, franceskaihwawang.com

Meeting on Childcare for Kaʻū Coffee Farm Workers, the Keiki OʻPalehua ʻOhana Program, happens Saturday July 13, 3 p.m., at Kaʻū District Gym's Activity Center. All Kaʻū farmers encouraged to attend. Childcare with educational activities will focus in part on the Marshallese community, which provides much labor for the coffee industry and is in need of childcare.

The meeting will discuss "how the community can help and why community cooperation is important," said childcare organizer Laura Diaz. "Are we ready and willing to commit to this project? This program benefits all of us coffee growers in the Kaʻū area. We need your support, and to do that you have to make an effort and attend this meeting. Attendance counts for requesting additional federal funding and monetary donations."
Discussion will also include progress on the building; securing additional in-kind donations; assistance from the County Department of Research and Development; recruiting farm worker families to participate in the program; and insurance coverage. Also on the agenda are the time-table for launching and starting the program; and planning the Grand Opening Celebration.
For more information, contact Diaz at 928-8188.

SUNDAY, JULY 14

MONDAY, JULY 15

Monday Movie Night: Fire & Sand (Local Documentary), Monday, July 15, 7p.m., $5 donation suggested. Popcorn and snacks available for purchase. Bring cushion. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

TUESDAY, JULY 16

The Wonderful World of Wine & Watercolor, Tuesday, July 16, 4-7p.m, Volcano Art Center.

$30/VAC member, $35/non-member, $17 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, July 17, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Learn About Water Law and how to advocate for water at a Dept. of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries meeting at Pāhala Community Center on Wednesday, July 17, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ka Huli Alo will provide a brief overview of Hawaiʻi legal framework governing water resource management. It will be followed by a discussion on "how homestead communities can advocate for pono, righteous, use and protection of wai, water," says the announcement.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, July 17, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

ONGOING

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Hālau Hula O Leionalani with Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder at Punaluʻu BlackSandBeach. The hālau will perform

tomorrow at the 38th Kahuku Unit Festival. See story, below. Photo by Julia Neal

THE STOP CRUELTY TO MIGRANT CHILDREN ACT was introduced into the U.S. Senate this week by Mazie Hirono and colleagues. She said it would "end the practice of separating children from their families and require swift medical care, legal assistance, and more to ensure the health and safety of children in our government's custody."

Hirono tweeted about the detention of people coming across borders into the U.S. seeking asylum from conditions in their homelands. "It's apparent that @realDonaldTrump& @VP have very different definitions of humane and compassionate than the rest of us. Let's be clear: crowding hundreds of people in cages in sweltering heat without showers or basic necessities is neither humane nor compassionate."

In an email, Hirono remarked on recent images of "little kids packed into detention centers and tent cities, with aluminum blankets and nothing to sleep on but concrete floors." She pointed to Oscar Alberto Martinez and his young daughter who drowned in the Rio Grande River, seeking to come to a better life in America.

Sen. Hirono, right, with Sen. Chuck Schumer, during the

unveiling of the bill. Photo from @SenSchumer, Twitter

Said Hirono, "If you saw these haunting photos and felt no shame or pain, if you weren't appalled by these pictures, then something is dead or dying in your hearts and in the heart of America. We have a crisis of conscience in our country. What was once a beacon of hope and freedom for families like mine has turned into a place where these tragic images exist, where far too many migrants seeking a better life are either losing their lives on their way here or they are being dehumanized and detained in horrific conditions upon arriving at our border.

"We must pass the Stop Cruelty to Migrant Children Act. If we as a country want to recover from this ugly chapter in our nation's history and return to being that shining light of hope we once were, we must.

"We demand Mitch McConnell and Senate Republicans take this critical bill up for a vote and pass it as soon as possible."

She also urged the public to donate to The Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services. She said RAICES is "an important organization working on the front lines of this crisis, providing much needed resources to migrant children and their families."

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Red lines enclose areas over which the LIDAR survey helicopter will fly at 396 meters (1,300 feet) above ground level.

Green lines enclose areas over which the helicopter will fly at 151 m (500 ft) agl. USGS map

USGS HELICOPTER OVERFLIGHTS ARE EXTENDED this month. The focus is to complete a U.S. Geological Survey scan that uses LIDAR (Light, Detection, and Ranging) to document and map ground changes from last year's eruptive events at Kīlauea summit and the East Rift Zone. Originally scheduled for the second half of June, technical issues and logistical challenges made additional flights necessary.

Flights will begin tomorrow, July 13, and take six to ten more days over the next few weeks, weather permitting. The slow and repetitive "lawnmower" grids of the bright yellow helicopter will run at about 1,300 feet above ground level (agl) to as low as 500 ft agl.

During the LIDAR survey, equipment will be mounted on a bright yellow

Hughes 500 helicopter like the one shown here. The helicopter will fly in

a northeast or southwest direction over the survey areas depicted

on the map, above. Photo from Windward Aviation

LIDAR is the best way to detect and map vertical or near-vertical features, states USGS, such as fissures, ground cracks, and caldera walls. Data acquired during this survey can be used to model likely paths that lava flows may take during future eruptions, which can help mitigate future lava flow hazards. USGS scientists will produce a digital elevation model from which the volumes of erupted lava and summit subsidence in 2018 can be calculated. Products from the survey should be publicly available by late 2019.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park overflights for July include:

Monday through Thursday, July 15-18, 9 a.m. to noon: Feral ungulate fence construction projects in the Southwest Rift Zone.

Tuesday, July 23, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.: Pepeiao Cabin maintenance from Hilina Pali Road to Pepeiao Cabin.

Tuesday, July 30, 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.: Ungulate survey and control work within the Kahuku Unit paddock area. 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.: Pepeiao Cabin maintenance from Hilina Pali Road to Pepeiao Cabin.

Wednesday, July 31, 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.: Survey invasive vegetation along Mauna Loa Road from 4,000- to 6,000-ft. elevation.

The Park and USGS regret any noise impact to residents and Park visitors. Dates and times are subject to change based on aircraft availability and weather. Management of the Park requires the use of aircraft to monitor and research volcanic activity, conduct search-and-rescue missions and law enforcement operations, support management of natural and cultural resources, and to maintain backcountry facilities.

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Childcare for Marshallese coffee workers is a main focus

of tomorrow's meeting on the Keiki OʻPalehua ʻOhana

Program. Attendance will influence the amount of funds

the program can request. Photo by Maria Miranda

FEDERAL FUNDS AND DONATIONS ARE ON THE LINE, based on the attendance at tomorrow's meeting on childcare for Kaʻū coffee farm workers. The Keiki OʻPalehua ʻOhana Program meeting happens Saturday July 13, 3 p.m., at Kaʻū District Gym's Activity Center. All Kaʻū farmers are encouraged to attend, said organizer Laura Diaz. "Attendance counts for requesting additional federal funding and monetary donations."
Childcare with educational activities will focus in part on the Marshallese community, which provides much labor for the coffee industry and is in need of childcare. "This program benefits all of us coffee growers in the Kaʻū area," said Diaz.

The event offers discussion on the importance of community cooperation and help. Topics include the level of commitment; progress on the planned childcare building; how to secure additional in-kind donations; organizing assistance from the County Department of Research and Development; recruiting farm worker families to participate in the program; insurance coverage; the time-table for launching and starting the program; and planning the Grand Opening Celebration.
The program is a brainchild of Diaz and is supported by residents and community groups, including former Miss Kaʻū Coffee Maria Miranda. She said the Marshallese family is "a beautiful thing, with family members often going to work sites together." Many Marshallese find it difficult to work, particularly in the coffee industry, with prohibitions on bringing children to job sites, she explained.

Marshallese coffee pickers have traditionally been paid by the pound or bag,

so they could take their time in the Kaʻū coffee fields, alternating

between childcare and work. Photo by Julia Neal

John Ah San, President of Palehua ʻOhana Farmers Cooperative, said organized childcare should also help coffee farm owners which hire Marshallese, to meet labor laws. When taking care of their keiki while picking coffee, it can take longer to pick, which can affect minimum wage requirements – even if they are being paid by the pound or bag. There is also the concern, said Ah San, of federal fines for labor law violations; and how coffee pickers must be on a coffee farm's payroll, have their own business license, or join a labor pool organization hired by coffee farmers. Many of the coffee companies buying from Kaʻū farmers want assurance that workers are being paid and treated fairly, Ah San said.
Many Kaʻū Coffee pickers of the Marshallese community live in Ocean View.

For more information, contact Diaz at 928-8188.

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CELEBRATE HAWAIIAN CULTURE AT KAHUKU UNIT of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park tomorrow, Saturday, July 13, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The 38th festival's theme is E Ho‘omau: to continue. Last year's festival was canceled due to the 2018 Kīlauea eruption.

Cultural practitioners and rangers share the art of lau hala weaving and
other traditional Hawaiian crafts tomorrow at the free
38th Kahuku Unit Cultural Festival. NPS photo

The free celebration, with no entrance or parking fees, offers hula, dance, and mele, music, for the duration of the event. Two hālau hula and three local bands from Hawai‘i Island are performing: Debbie Ryder and Hālau O Leionalani; Russell Mauga and Da Kahuku Mauka Boyz; Mamo Brown and Hālau Ulumamo O Hilo Palikū; Demetrius Oliviera and Gene Beck of Keaiwa; and Brandon Nakano and the Keawe Trio. Each performance will last about 45 minutes.

In addition to hula and mele, the festival offers attendees – island visitors and the local community – a chance to connect to Hawaiian cultural practices through hands-on crafts and demonstrations. National Park Service and Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association staff will provide ‘oli, chant; ti leaf lei making; lau hala weaving; and ‘ohe kapala, bamboo stamping. Capt. Kiko Johnston-Kitazawa will ply imaginations with his authentic Hawaiian sailing canoe. The Ka‘ū Multicultural Society will share a fascinating glimpse into Kahuku Ranch's not-so-distant past with their popular paniolo, cowboy, photography exhibit.

To showcase how deeply Hawaiian culture is connected to the ‘āina, land, organizations like ‘Imi Pono no ka ‘Āina, Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death education and outreach, The ‘Alalā Project, and NPS Natural Resources Management will give attendees an opportunity to learn how to protect native species and about the latest conservation efforts.

Hālau Ulumamo O Hilo Palikū at the hula platform in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes

National Park. The hālau performs with Mamo Brown during

tomorrow's celebration at Kahuku Unit. NPS photo

Festival-goers are welcome to bring a picnic lunch, or purchase food and drink at the event. Food will be sold by Volcano House, shave ice and soft drinks will be sold by the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, and Ka‘ū coffee and bottled water will be sold by Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association.

Saturday's weather is forecast to be mostly sunny, with temperatures in the low 80s. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended. Bring water and a ground mat or chair. This family experience is a drug- and alcohol-free event. Co-sponsored by Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Volcano House, and the Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association. Can't make it? Follow the Park's official social media for live streaming, festival photos, and more.

Russell Mauga performs with Kahuku Mountian Boyz during tomorrow's

celebration at Kahuku Unit. Photo from

Russell Mauga

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COMPARING MAUNA LOA'S ALERT LEVEL to Mauna Loa's 1975 eruption is the subject of this week's Volcano Watch, written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates:

Shortly before midnight on July 5, 1975, Mauna Loa Volcano awakened with a shudder. Quickly responding to a seismic earthquake/tremor alarm at 11:18 p.m., USGS HVO staff rushed to their offices, where, at 11:42 p.m., they noted red glow above the mountain. The 1975 eruption lasted less than a day, but it ended Mauna Loa's then longest-known repose period.

The post-World War II years had brought gradual improvements to HVO's volcano monitoring network, including a seismic station at the rim of Moku‘āweoweo, Mauna Loa's summit caldera. This station was the first to radio its signal from the summit area to HVO for review.

For many years, HVO's seismic monitoring began with the scan of seismograms to compile daily counts of earthquakes in key regions of the volcanoes. For sufficiently well-recorded earthquakes, locations – or hypocenters – were also computed, as they are now, to help describe the earthquake and volcanic processes in greater detail.

In April 1974, more than a year before the 1975 eruption, HVO staff noted a clear increase in the daily earthquake counts beneath Mauna Loa. An initial flurry of earthquakes extended into mid-May, when earthquake counts dropped, but still persisted above the April daily averages.

Kahuku Unit offers striking vistas and its cultural
festival on Saturday until 3 p.m. NPS photo

In late July 1974, Mauna Loa's earthquake activity abruptly returned, and the rate increased to hundreds of detected earthquakes per week. Then, from August 1974 to the July 5-6, 1975, eruption, counts of hundreds of earthquakes per day were consistently compiled. Geodetic measurements spanning the summit of Mauna Loain August 1974 and June 1975 were consistent with volcanic inflation.

Complementing the 1974 and 1975 earthquake counts, the hypocenters showed that Mauna Loa earthquakes were generally clustered beneath Moku‘āweoweo, the volcano's Southwest Rift Zone, and 5-6 kilometers (3-4 miles) west of the summit. The western group was somewhat deeper than the two other clusters.

Though lacking in the detail and precision available to us now, HVO's observations in August 1974 would have likely resulted in an upgrade of Mauna Loa's Volcano Alert Level and Aviation Color Code to Advisory and Yellow, respectively – had the USGS Alert-Notification System for Volcanic Activity existed at that time. The system was established in 2006; more info at volcanoes.usgs.gov/vhp/about_alerts.html. Persistent, though fluctuating, rates of hundreds of earthquakes each week would arguably have sustained an upgraded classification through the fall of 1974.

As early as 1915, HVO scientists had postulated relationships between Mauna Loaeruptions and moderately strong, possibly precursory, flank earthquakes. On November 30, 1974, such an earthquake, magnitude-5.4, occurred in the Ka‘ōiki fault system beneath Mauna Loa's southeast flank.

Kahuku Unit's logo.

That earthquake alone might not have warranted elevating Mauna Loa's Volcano Alert Level and Aviation Color Code from Advisory/Yellow to Watch/Orange, but, over three days in early December 1974, earthquake counts jumped from 100-200 to over 1,000 per day.

On December 15, a shallow magnitude-4.6 earthquake occurred beneath Moku‘āweoweo and daily earthquake counts peaked at 1 per minute (1,491 per day). The size and location of the M4.6 earthquake and the extremely high counts might well have encouraged raising Mauna Loa's status to a Watch/Orange designation.

A second shallow magnitude-4 earthquake struck beneath Mauna Loa's southeast summit region on March 26, 1975. Thereafter, an apparently accelerating rate of shallow magnitude-3+ earthquakes beneath the summit would have provided additional basis to change the Volcano Alert Level and Aviation Color Code prior to the eventual eruption in July.

In late spring 1975, HVO staff members Bob Koyanagi, Elliott Endo, and Jennifer Ebisu (Nakata) circulated a paper that described their observations and announced Mauna Loa's reawakening. In their world, without Internet and USGS Volcano Activity Notices, among many other differences compared to now, their paper appeared in print in September 1975, after the eruption.

Modern monitoring strategies have improved HVO's ability to recognize and act upon clear precursors leading to Mauna Loa's next eruption. We understand, however, that while building toward its next eruption, the volcano will not necessarily follow the same patterns noted in connection with earlier eruptions.

HVO continues to carefully track volcanic and seismic activity on Mauna Loa, Kīlauea, and other active Hawaiian volcanoes, and will issue appropriate notifications based on the best information available to us. Sign up through the USGS Volcano Notification Service, volcanoes.usgs.gov/vns2, to receive these email notices.

Kahuku Unit hosts its 38th Cultural Festival tomorrow. NPS map

Volcano Activity Updates – For definitions of USGS Volcano Alert Levels, see volcanoes.usgs.gov/vhp/about_alerts.html.

The USGS Volcano Alert level for Mauna Loa was changed on July 2, 2019, to ADVISORY, because, for the past several months, earthquake and ground deformation rates at the volcano have exceeded long-term background levels. This increase in alert level does not mean that an eruption is imminent nor that progression to an eruption is certain. A similar increase in activity occurred between 2014 and 2018 and no eruption occurred.

Seismicity on Mauna Loa remains elevated, with an average of at least 50 shallow small-magnitude earthquakes per week following an earthquake swarm in October 2018. This compares to a rate of fewer than 20 earthquakes per week beneath the volcano in the first half of 2018.
Deformation measurements show continued summit inflation, suggestive of renewed recharge of the volcano's shallow magma storage system. This rate of inflation has not changed since the alert level was raised on July 2.

No significant changes in volcanic gas release on the Southwest Rift Zone were measured, and fumarole temperatures there and at the summit remain unchanged.

For more info on the status of Mauna Loa, see volcanoes.usgs.gov/volcanoes/mauna_loa/status.html.

As the sun rose above Mauna Kea (background) on July 6, 1975, eruptive fissures along the Northeast Rift Zone of Mauna

Loa fed voluminous ‘a‘ā lava flows that quickly moved down the north flank of the volcano. USGS photo by D. Peterson

Kῑlauea Volcano is not erupting and its USGS Volcano Alert level remains at NORMAL. Rates of deformation, gas release, and seismicity on Kīlaueahave not changed significantly over the past week.

Deformation at Kīlauea's summit has been consistent with slow magma accumulation within the shallow portion of the summit magma system. However, gas measurements have not indicated shallowing of large volumes of magma.

On Kīlauea's East Rift Zone, deformation continues to show motions consistent with slowed refilling of the deep magmatic reservoir in the broad region between Puʻu ʻŌʻō and Highway 130.

The south flank of Kīlauea continues to creep seaward at elevated rates following the May 4, 2018, M6.9 earthquake near Kalapana. Elevated rates of motion on faults after a large earthquake are common and are not cause for alarm.

Real-time sulfur dioxide emission rates are low at the summit and are below detection limits at Puʻu ʻŌʻō and the Lower East Rift Zone.

Three earthquakes with three or more felt reports occurred in Hawaiʻi this past week: a magnitude-2.9 quake 13 km (8 mi) southwest of Leilani Estates at -0 km (-0 mi) depth on July 6 at 8:07 a.m.; a magnitude-3.4 quake 6 km (4 mi) south of Volcano at 30 km (19 mi) depth on July 3 at 6:48 p.m.; and a magnitude-3.8 quake 5 km (3 mi) south of Volcano at 30 km (19 mi) depth on July 3 at 6:35 p.m.

Visit volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvofor past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake info, and more. Call 808-967-8862 for weekly Kīlauea updates. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

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PĀHALA TRANSFER STATION UNEXPECTEDLY CLOSED today at 9 a.m. but is expected to reopen tomorrow, Saturday, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The county issued a statement today saying the reason was staff shortages. See hawaiizerowaste.org.

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See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

SATURDAY, JULY 13

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, July 13, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Writing from the Heart with Frances Kai-Hwa Wang, Saturday, July 13, 9:30a.m.-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. $65/VAC member, $75/non-member. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org, franceskaihwawang.com

Meeting on Childcare for Kaʻū Coffee Farm Workers, the Keiki OʻPalehua ʻOhana Program, happens Saturday July 13, 3 p.m., at Kaʻū District Gym's Activity Center. All Kaʻū farmers encouraged to attend. Childcare with educational activities will focus in part on the Marshallese community, which provides much labor for the coffee industry and is in need of childcare.

SUNDAY, JULY 14

MONDAY, JULY 15

Monday Movie Night: Fire & Sand (Local Documentary), Monday, July 15, 7p.m., $5 donation suggested. Popcorn and snacks available for purchase. Bring cushion. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

TUESDAY, JULY 16

The Wonderful World of Wine & Watercolor, Tuesday, July 16, 4-7p.m, Volcano Art Center.

$30/VAC member, $35/non-member, $17 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, July 17, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Learn About Water Law and how to advocate for water at a Dept. of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries meeting at Pāhala Community Center on Wednesday, July 17, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ka Huli Alo will provide a brief overview of Hawaiʻi legal framework governing water resource management. It will be followed by a discussion on "how homestead communities can advocate for pono, righteous, use and protection of wai, water," says the announcement.

FRIDAY, JULY 19

Hawai‘i State Little League Tournament, Friday through Tuesday, July 19-23, first game at 11:30a.m., second game at 2:30p.m. Nā‘ālehu Community Center Ball Field, Hwy 11. Winners go to regionals. Concessions available. No admission charged. Josh Crook, 345-0511

ONGOING

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Eucalyptus, farmed in Kaʻū, is being harvested for Hū Honua, which is seeking a permit for an 800 foot deep
injection well for waste water for its processing plant to burn the wood to make electricity north of Hilo.
See story below. Photo by Julia Neal

PROGRESS IN ESTABLISHING CHILD CARE FOR KAʻŪ COFFEE FARM WORKERS was reported today at a meeting of farmers and other supporters of the effort. With the increasing employment of members of Kaʻū's Marshallese community to pick Kaʻū Coffee, organizers in the coffee producing community, led by Laura Diaz, have established a nonprofit organization called
Keiki OʻPalehua ʻOhana Program.
The group has also completed renovations of a room in the Pāhala Hongwanji Schoolhouse with educational supplies for up to 15 keiki. Diaz said she is encouraged by the non-profit Partners in Development organization that also provides the Tūtū & Me early education program in Kaʻū. The Kohala Center sent its Rural and Cooperative Business Development Specialist Teresa Young to today's meeting. Also showing support is the county Office of Economic Development, said Diaz.

Marshallese community member Alina Jerong picked coffee when
she was running for Miss Kaʻū Coffee. Her community is now
offered childcare while working in the fields.
Photo by Julia Neal

Kaʻū coffee farmer Lorie Obra, who supports the effort, said she has been relying on Marhallese coffee workers for years. John Ah San, President of the Palehua ʻOhana Farmers Cooperative, said that more Kaʻū Coffee farmers are relying on the Marshallese now that Latin American coffee pickers have become more nervous about flying to Hawaiʻi, worried that they could be caught up in some kind of immigration sting and arrested or deported, even though they believe their papers are in order.
Ah San also explained that the challenge for Marshallese workers is that the labor department looks down on anyone bringing their children to the workplace and that the Marshallese like to come to work as one big family. He said the childcare center will help to create more coffee jobs for the Marshallese, who would drop off their children before work. Many of the Marshallese workers live in Kaʻū and can freely travel between the U.S. and the Marshall Islands.
Diaz said that the Keiki O Palehua ʻOhana Program is looking for an electrician to hang two ceiling fans at the childcare center, for some kind of food service for the keiki, and other donations. A grand opening is planned for Aug. 10.
The next meeting about the project is on Sunday, July 28 at 3 p.m. at the Kaʻū District Gym Activity Room. Call Diaz at 928-8188 or 408-306-5596.

Award winning coffee farmer Lorie Obra said she supports childcare

for Marshallese coffee workers in Kaʻū. Photo from alohagrown

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TREATMENT OF MIGRANTS by the U.S. sparked comment from Sen. Brian Schatz yesterday: "Both sides did not do this. Both sides do not support this. This is happening because the President has decided to inflict pain and instill fear on a systematic basis. The foul, brutal, vicious treatment of people on the border and in American cities is not the result of instability in South and Central America. It is a conscious choice made by the ruling political party. And if you still affiliate with that party, are the tax cuts worth it?" Schatz comments come before the planned roundup of illegal immigrants in nine major cities across the country on Sunday.

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SEN. MAZIE HIRONO SENT OUT A WARNING ABOUT ICE RAIDS that the Trump administration announced for tomorrow. In her message this evening, Hirono stated: "As a Senator, as an immigrant, and as an American, I want to make it clear: what Donald Trump is doing to immigrants and their loved ones across our country right now is appalling.

"Not only are thousands of infants, children, and families being detained and packed in uninhabitable, inhumane conditions in for-profit detention centers and camps, he is now making good on his earlier threat to begin massive ICE raids in at least 10 major cities across the country. Starting tomorrow, ICE is preparing to arrest, detain, and deport at least 2,000 immigrants, terrorizing communities everywhere."

The senator urged immigrants to know their rights. "According to the American Civil Liberties Union, you may: ask if law enforcement personnel at your door are immigration agents, and what they are there for; ask the agent or officer to show you a badge or ID through your peephole or a window; keep your door closed unless they have certain types of warrants; and wait to speak with an attorney before signing anything. You always have the right to remain silent, even if an officer has a warrant.

"Only together can we stop this cruelty, and we must," said Hirono.

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THE HŪ HONUA ENERGY PLANT IS ASKING TO DRILL DEEPER injection wells for its wastewater, than approved last year. The state Department of Health is asking for public comment by July 21. The original approval by DOH was for three, 24 inch wide, 400 foot injection wells. The new approval would be for three, 24 inch wide, 800 foot injection wells. The purpose of the wells is to reduce the amount of waste water that would flow into the ocean at its oceanfront plant north of Hilo. The permit is called an Underground Injection Control application.
Over the last year, farmed eucalyptus trees near Pāhala have been harvested, in anticipation of the Hū Honua plant opening and burning electricity to sell to Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co.
Comments may be mailed to Ms. Joanna L. Seto, P.E., Safe Drinking Water Branch UIC Program, Uluakupu Bldg. 4, 2385 Waimano Home Road, Suite 110, Pearl City, Hawai‘i 96782-1400.

DOH is taking comments on whether it should grant a modification of the original approval, issued in 2018. Should DOH grant the modified approval, operation of the wells would be authorized only when DOH also issues a permit to operate.

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Chief of Staff appointee Linda Chu Takayama

THE GOVERNOR'S NEW CHIEF OF STAFF will be Linda Chu Takayama, beginning Aug. 1. Gov. David Ige appointed Chu Takayama, who has served his administration since 2015. She led the Hawaiʻi Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and is director of the Dept. of Taxation. Chu Takayama has overseen the modernization of the tax department and is responsible for collecting more than $7 billion in tax revenue. She is an attorney with practice areas in regulatory and governmental affairs, health, insurance, land development, and corporate business law.

Chu Takayama was director of the Office of Economic Development for the City and County of Honolulu, deputy director of the state Dept. of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, the Hawai‘i Insurance Commissioner, chief of staff to the U.S. Senate Sergeant at Arms, and director of State Legislative Affairs and Agricultural Issues for the Grocery Manufacturers of America, Inc.

She also served for 25 years as chair of Hawai‘i Foodbank and is a director on the board of the Hawai‘i Health Information Corp.

Chu Takayama was born and raised in Honolulu, where she earned a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from George Mason University School of Law in Virginia.

Said Chu Takayama, "I am truly honored by this appointment and will be working hard to justify the governor's confidence in me. Although the state faces tough challenges, I believe, as LBJ did, 'There are no problems we cannot solve together, and very few that we can solve by ourselves.'"

Chief Operating Officer appointee
Keith Yamamoto

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THE STATE'S NEW CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER IS KEITH YAMAMOTO, appointed by Gov. David Ige. Yamamoto served as first deputy director of the state Department of Health, where he was responsible for overseeing the general administration of the department.

Yamamoto also served as chief of the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division at the Dept. of Health, program development administrator for the Office of Youth Services at the Dept. of Human Services, and has managed school-based vocational education and career development programs for at-risk youth while with the state Dept. of Labor and Industrial Relations.

He earned a B.S. in Rehabilitation Services from the University of Colorado and his master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa.

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CHINESE AMERICAN WORLD WAR II VETERANS are encouraged to apply to receive a Congressional Gold Medal, said Rep. Ed Case. Case said his office is "happy to help them apply for the medal"– see case.house.gov.

Last year, Congress passed the Chinese American World War II Veterans Congressional Gold Medal Act "to recognize their indispensable and loyal service to our nation in part through award of a Congressional gold medal."

Said Case, "If you know a WWII Chinese American veteran, please encourage them to apply to receive their medal through the Chinese American Citizens Alliance at caww2.org/preservation."

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Sharon Beck and Kelai Namohala.
Photo from KHPES Twitter

KHPES ATHLETIC DIRECTOR KALEI NAMOHALA was recognized last week at #ELIHI2019, the Hawaiʻi educators' conference on Oʻahu. She was nominated by Kaʻū High and Pāhala Elementary School Principal Sharon Beck for Outstanding Performance in School Year 2017-2018. Namohala was issued a certificate by the Department of Education Reward & Recognition Program.

expected to peak late tonight through Sunday night at near warning levels, then slowly decrease Monday into Tuesday, states an alert from the National Weather Service. Surf will be higher than normal, and shore break and dangerous currents could cause injury or death. Expect strong breaking waves, shore break, and rip currents making swimming difficult and dangerous. Beach-goers, swimmers, and surfers should heed all advice given by ocean safety officials and exercise caution when near or entering the water. Beaches may be closed without notice; however, there are no beach closures at this time.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

SUNDAY, JULY 14

MONDAY, JULY 15

Monday Movie Night: Fire & Sand (Local Documentary), Monday, July 15, 7p.m., $5 donation suggested. Popcorn and snacks available for purchase. Bring cushion. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

TUESDAY, JULY 16

The Wonderful World of Wine & Watercolor, Tuesday, July 16, 4-7p.m, Volcano Art Center.

$30/VAC member, $35/non-member, $17 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, July 17, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Learn About Water Law and how to advocate for water at a Dept. of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries meeting at Pāhala Community Center on Wednesday, July 17, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ka Huli Alo will provide a brief overview of Hawaiʻi legal framework governing water resource management. It will be followed by a discussion on "how homestead communities can advocate for pono, righteous, use and protection of wai, water," says the announcement.

FRIDAY, JULY 19

SATURDAY, JULY 20
Free Haircuts, Saturday, July 20, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Kady and Drew Foster. Sign-up sheet on church bulletin board. stjudeshawaii.org

Giving Tree, Saturday, July 20, lower parking lot, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Free clothing and self care items. stjudeshawaii.org

Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Data Survey and Clean-up at Kamilo, Saturday, July 20. Free; donations appreciated. Full - waitlist only. RSVP required. 769-7629, kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com

Mobile Spay & Neuter Waggin', Saturday, July 20, 7:30a.m.-4p.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Low income pet parents and those with limited transportation qualify for mobile spay/neuter service. Free. Surgery by phone appointment only. Hawai‘i Island Humane Society, 796-0107, hihs.org

3rd Annual Ka‘ū Multicultural Society Pig Hunt, Saturday, July 20, weigh-in open 10 a.m.-5p.m., parking lot adjacent to 96-3258 Maile Street, Pāhala, near old Radio Station Building. Food booths and variety of contest categories. Kalani Vierra, 938-2005, Darlyne Vierra, 6408740, or Liz Kuluwaimaka, 339-0289

Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, July 20, 10a.m.-1p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Beginner & Intermediate Mixed Media Encaustic with Mary Milelzcik, Saturday, July 20, 10a.m.-2p.m., Volcano Art Center. $55/VAC member, $60/non-member, plus $25 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Hula Kahiko - Kumu Hula Moses Kaho‘okele Crabbe with Hālauolaokalani, Saturday, July 20, 10:30-11:30a.m., hula platform near Volcano Art Center Gallery. Hula performance. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā Mea Hula with Kumu Loke Kamanu & ‘Ohana, Saturday, July 20, 11a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery porch. Hands-on cultural demonstration. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Ham Radio Mtg., Saturday, July 20, 2-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Sounds at the Summit, Desiree Moana Cruz & the Bill Nobel Quintet performance, Saturday, July 20, 5:30p.m., Volcano Art Center. Be-bop, swing, bosanova, salsa, and smooth-jazz-funk. $20/VAC member, $25/non-member. Tickets available for purchase online. Beer, wine, and pupu available for purchase at event. volcanoartcenter.org

ONGOING

6th Annual Ka‘ū Coffee Trail Run Registration, webscorer.com/register?raceid=166020. 5K, 10K, 1/2 Marathon races through mac nut and coffee fields along slopes of Ka‘ū starting at 7a.m., Saturday, Sept. 21, Ka‘ū Coffee Mill. Sponsored by Ka‘ū Coffee Mill and ‘O Ka‘ū Kākou. Prices increase after July 9. okaukakou.org, kaucoffeemill.com

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

Native plant seeds, including ʻōhiʻa, were handed out at Saturday's Cultural Festival at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park,
Kahuku Unit. See story and more photos below. Photo by Manu Yanha

A PEACEFUL VIGIL ON MAUNA KEA DREW NO SWEEP OF PROTESTERS by law enforcement officials on Sunday. Mayor Harry Kim arrived unexpectedly, to watch over the nonviolent ceremony at Puʻu Huluhulu, to reconsecrate it as a puʻuhonua, a refuge. The event was held in anticipation of the beginning of construction of the $1.4 billion Thirty Meter Telescope near the Mauna Kea summit. Some native Hawaiians and others object to the telescope, saying the site is sacred and that the top of the volcano, under public management, has been mistreated. Transportation of equipment and materials to start construction is scheduled to begin on Monday, requiring closure of the road to the summit.

Hula at Puʻunohnua o Puʻu Huluhulu on Sunday. Community members and
cultural groups are standing vigil against construction of the Thirty Meter
Telescope, slated to begin tomorrow. Photo from Big Island Video News

Gov. David Ige announced this afternoon that rumors spread about a possible sweep of the area tonight at 8 p.m. "I can let you know that there is no planned sweep of Mauna Kea. We are concerned that these false rumors and speculation about state law enforcement activities creates anxieties in our community, and we just really want to remind people that the men and women of law enforcement are your neighbors. Their commitment is to their responsibility, which is to keep our community safe, to keep the roads passable so that truck drivers and construction workers can get to their work site and keep order," said the governor.

"As construction begins, our number one priority is keeping our community safe," said Ige. "Law enforcement's mission is to ensure that everyone can do their job, that truck drivers can drive and deliver equipment and materials as they are asked to do, that construction workers are able to proceed to their work site."

Mayor Harry Kim visited Puʻu Huluhulu on Sunday. He assured protesters
that their vigil can continue uninterrupted by law enforcement.
Photo from Big Island Video News

Ige said he expects any protests to remain peaceful but that "law enforcement has been preparing in a number of different ways and we are prepared to respond to whatever the situation may be.

"We expect, and I expect, the best behavior from our community. We don't expect protesters to get out of line. But, in terms of preparation, law enforcement has gone through and prepared for every scenario you might be able to imagine."

Mayor Harry Kim made a visit to Puʻu Huluhulu today. Big Island Video News reported the mayor talking about the ceremony and the people who gathered there. "I think it's a very appropriate place. They've been more than good at keeping their promises that safety is first for everybody. And I admire them for it, I respect them for it, and I surely do appreciate them for that." He said the groups gathering at Puʻu Huluhulu told him in advance of their intentions.

Kim supports the Thirty Meter Telescope project.

The HULI organization released a statement saying that, should the State of Hawaiʻi sweep the Puʻuhonua, Hawaiian groups "will stand as a lāhui to affirm the establishment of the puʻuhonua and protect their right to seek refuge there."

Cultural practitioners at Puʻu Huluhulu. Photo from Big Island Video News

Kim said those gathered at Puʻu Huluhulu would be allowed to carry on their vigil. "They need a place, now we need to see if we can minimize any parking problems," said Kim. The mayor said the group is working with him. "We shouldn't block the main highway, and they agreed to that. And they're working with us all the way through."

HULI member Andre Perez said that the mayor "affirmed several times that he was not going to have his police kick us out of here, or arrest us, or harass us in any way," reported Big Island Video News.

A joint statement about Sunday's ceremony to reconsecrate Puʻu Huluhulu as a puʻuhonua, came from The Royal Order of Kamehameha I, HULI, Hawaiʻinuiākea School of Hawaiian Knowledge-UH Mānoa, Hui Aloha ʻĀina, Mauna Kea Anaina Hou, Mauna Kea Hui, and Nā Wahine ʻĀpapalani:

"Through the Aliʻi authority of the Royal Order of Kamehameha I, and with the support of the kia‘i of Maunakea, Puʻuhonua o Puʻuhuluhulu was formally consecrated."

Alika Desha, Kālaimoku of the Royal Order of Kamehameha I, said, "In fulfillment of our kuleana, we are committed to upholding the sanctity and safe haven of this space for our akua, our ‘āina and our people."

A wahine displaying a Hawaiian Kingdom flag at Puʻu Huluhulu today.
Photo from Big Island Video News

     Leilani Lindsey, Pelekikena of the Hui Aloha ‘Āina, said, "Puʻuhuluhulu has been recognized as a Puʻuhonua for generations and that has been reaffirmed by the Royal Order of Kamehameha I. We will stand here together in the spirit of our kūpuna and in deep aloha for our ʻāina."
     John Osorio, Dean of Hawaiʻinuiākea, said, "We are a living people with a living culture. Any attempt to intrude on this Pu‘uhonua is a direct attempt to erase our people and culture and divides all Hawaiians."
     Ku Ching, member of Mauna Kea Anaina Hou, said, "We are doing a religious thing that is constitutionally protected. We are having an indefinite religious retreat."

Kealoha Pisciotta, of Mauna Kea Anaina Hou, said, "This is further evidence that of state violence hostility and disrespect for our aloha and our religious freedom."
"In the wisdom of Liko Martin and Aunty Pilahi Paki, Hawai‘i loa, kū like kākou. All Hawai‘i stands together," concluded the statement.

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Kumu Hula Mamo Brown's hālau at Kahuku on Saturday. Photo by Manu Yanha

KAHUKU UNIT'S 38TH ANNUAL HAWAIIAN CULTURAL FESTIVAL on Saturday offered island visitors and the local community a chance to connect to Hawaiian cultural practices through hands-on crafts and demonstrations, hula and Hawaiian music, and food. The festival's theme was E Ho‘omau: to continue; last year's festival was canceled due to the 2018 Kīlaueaeruption.

The free five hour celebration offered entertainment from two hālau hula and three local bands from Hawai‘i Island: Debbie Ryder and Hālau O Leionalani; Russell Mauga and Da Kahuku Mauka Boyz; Mamo Brown and Hālau Ulumamo O Hilo Palikū; Demetrius Oliviera and Gene Beck of Keaiwa; and Brandon Nakano and the Keawe Trio.

Hula in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park during the Cultural Festival this weekend. Photo by Manu Yanha

The Ka‘ū Multicultural Society shared their popular paniolo, cowboy, photography exhibit, a glimpse into Kahuku Ranch's not-so-distant past.

Capt. Kiko Johnston-Kitazawa exhibited his authentic Hawaiian sailing canoe.

The National Park Service and Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association staff demonstrated ‘oli, chant, and showed attendees how to make ti leaf leis, how to weave lau hala, and ‘ohe kapala, bamboo stamping.

Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death education and outreach handed out native plant seeds. One seed type, ʻōhiʻa, is suffering a devastating fungal epidemic on several Hawaiian islands.

The ‘Alalā Project, ‘Imi Pono no ka ‘Āina, and NPS Natural Resources Management educated on how to protect native species and about their latest conservation efforts.

The discovery of this island was by canoe, as honored in this hula. Photo by Manu Yanha

Food from Volcano House, shave ice from the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, and Ka‘ū coffee from Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association were available for purchase. Attendees were also encouraged to bring a picnic lunch.

The event was co-sponsored by Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Volcano House, and the Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association. The Park's official social media has video, festival photos, and more.

Park rangers make ti leaf lei with cultural fest goers. Photo by Manu Yanha

See more festival photos in this week's Kaʻū News Briefs.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

A MISSING MAN SWIMMING OFF GREEN SANDS BEACH is the target of a search that began Saturday night and continued today in the waters of Mahana Bay and beyond, along the South Point shoreline. Said to be in his 20's, the man was noticed missing in the waters while swimming at about 6 p.m. Rescue crews searched the coast on foot while the C1 helicopter searched from the air until dusk. The Coast Guard joined the search this morning, joining the Hawaiʻi Fire Department. There was a High Surf Advisory at the time the man entered the water. It was later changed to a High Surf Warning as a huge south well pounds the coast.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands manages land access to Mahana Bay and is working on a plan for safety and protection of natural and cultural resources.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

HIGH SURF WARNING for south facing shores of Hawaiʻi Island continues through Monday. The National Weather Service said the most dangerous time along the coast is during periods of high tide. A High Surf Warning means large breaking surf, significant shore-break, and dangerous currents make entering the water very hazardous.

Green Sands Beach at Mahana Bay, where a swimmer went missing Saturday night, during a high surf warning. The
state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands manages land access and is creating a plan for safety and
protection of the natural and cultural resources. Photo from DHHL

NSW stated that oceanfront residents and beachgoers are advised to be on alert; inexperienced persons should remain off beaches and adjacent beach front areas; fishermen should pay close attention to the surf; and boat owners and oceanfront residents should take action to secure their property. Closures of roads and beaches may occur at any time.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

MONDAY, JULY 15

Monday Movie Night: Fire & Sand (Local Documentary), Monday, July 15, 7p.m., $5 donation suggested. Popcorn and snacks available for purchase. Bring cushion. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

TUESDAY, JULY 16

The Wonderful World of Wine & Watercolor, Tuesday, July 16, 4-7p.m, Volcano Art Center.

$30/VAC member, $35/non-member, $17 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, July 17, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Learn About Water Law and how to advocate for water at a Dept. of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries meeting at Pāhala Community Center on Wednesday, July 17, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ka Huli Alo will provide a brief overview of Hawaiʻi legal framework governing water resource management. It will be followed by a discussion on "how homestead communities can advocate for pono, righteous, use and protection of wai, water," says the announcement.

FRIDAY, JULY 19

SATURDAY, JULY 20
Free Haircuts, Saturday, July 20, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Kady and Drew Foster. Sign-up sheet on church bulletin board. stjudeshawaii.org

Giving Tree, Saturday, July 20, lower parking lot, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Free clothing and self care items. stjudeshawaii.org

Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Data Survey and Clean-up at Kamilo, Saturday, July 20. Free; donations appreciated. Full - waitlist only. RSVP required. 769-7629, kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com

3rd Annual Ka‘ū Multicultural Society Pig Hunt, Saturday, July 20, weigh-in open 10 a.m.-5p.m., parking lot adjacent to 96-3258 Maile Street, Pāhala, near old Radio Station Building. Food booths and variety of contest categories. Kalani Vierra, 938-2005, Darlyne Vierra, 6408740, or Liz Kuluwaimaka, 339-0289

Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, July 20, 10a.m.-1p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Beginner & Intermediate Mixed Media Encaustic with Mary Milelzcik, Saturday, July 20, 10a.m.-2p.m., Volcano Art Center. $55/VAC member, $60/non-member, plus $25 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Hula Kahiko - Kumu Hula Moses Kaho‘okele Crabbe with Hālauolaokalani, Saturday, July 20, 10:30-11:30a.m., hula platform near Volcano Art Center Gallery. Hula performance. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā Mea Hula with Kumu Loke Kamanu & ‘Ohana, Saturday, July 20, 11a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery porch. Hands-on cultural demonstration. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Ham Radio Mtg., Saturday, July 20, 2-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Sounds at the Summit, Desiree Moana Cruz & the Bill Nobel Quintet performance, Saturday, July 20, 5:30p.m., Volcano Art Center. Be-bop, swing, bosanova, salsa, and smooth-jazz-funk. $20/VAC member, $25/non-member. Tickets available for purchase online. Beer, wine, and pupu available for purchase at event. volcanoartcenter.org

SUNDAY, JULY 21

Ka‘ū Chamber of Commerce Mtg., Sunday, July 21, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

ONGOING

Enroll at Volcano School of Arts and Science for the 2019-2020 school year, which starts Aug. 5; orientation for new students is Aug. 2. Spaces are available in 1st through 8th grades of the expanding Kula ‘Amakihi Community-Based Education (CBE) Program; the school may also have space or short wait lists for certain grades in the regular on-campus programs. Contact 808-985-9800, or email enrollment@volcanoschool.net to enroll.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

Richard Ha, known for his development of the banana and tomato business, is a supporter of TMT,
joining a group along the highway in Hilo who want to see the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea.
Photo from Big Island Video News

NEGOTIATIONS AT THE MAUNA KEA ACCESS ROAD lasted all day between law enforcement officials accompanying those seeking to begin construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope and those opposing the project. Eight persons, in opposition of TMT, strapped themselves with chains and pipes to a cattle guard that crosses Mauna Kea Access Road about an eighth of a mile above the Daniel K. Inouye Highway - the Saddle Road. They left after lying there for 12 hours, surrounded by supporters. Their presence made it impossible for the state Department of Transportation to complete setting up barrier walls along the access road and for contractors to begin movement of construction materials and crews toward the summit.

Protesters against the Thirty Meter Telescope at the access road to Mauna Kea's summit.
Photo from Big Island Video News

Kaleikoa Kaʻeo, who tied himself to the cattle guard, told Big Island Video News, "We know this land belongs to us. If we are going to live on as people, we have to demand out humanity – we can no longer be dehumanized by those who refuse to accept that we all should be treated equally in this world. Where else can Hawaiians be Hawaiians – where else are Hawaiians going to have our sacred land?"

At the refuge, Puʻuhonua o Puʻu Huluhulu, near the entrance to
Mauna Kea's access road. Photo from Big Island Video News

As evening fell, a group of protesters, calling themselves Protectors of Mauna Kea, created a human wall across the access road. Among the kupuna, the elders in the group, was Noe Noe Wong Wilson, who said, "There is no more desecration of this mauna as long as we are standing."
Law enforcement officials held numerous meetings with activist leaders during the day and decided to refrain from arresting people for blocking the road and lying across the cattle guard.

Both law enforcement and activist representatives described the day as peaceful and vowed to avoid violence. Those gathering at the intersection of the Inouye Highway and Mauna Kea Access Road carried numerous signs, one saying "Road Closed Due to Desecration." Numerous people camped in the area last weekend when they held a ceremony to establish Puʻuhonua o Puʻu Huluhulu, a consecrated refuge.

Walter Ritte, Kaleikoa Kaʻeo, and six others chained
themselves to a cattle grate on Mauna Kea's
access road today. Photo from Big Island Video News

Supporters of TMT held signs in Hilo today saying IMUA TMT and Support Culture and Science, Yes TMT. They noted tat TMT promises 140 permanent jobs and 300 construction jobs during the decade-long building of the telescope. They also pointed to the state receiving $1 million a year for the lease of the Mauna Kea property to the TMT group and the annual TMT budget of $26 million that would help fuel the local economy.

Some astronomers already assigned to telescopes on Mauna Kea are opting to work remotely during the standoff with opponents of the project. Big Island Video News interviewed astronomer Thayne Currie, who scheduled telescope time for this week, but will work remotely "largely due to safety."

Said Currie, "Every possible issue that you could think of raising has been raised," about TMT and opposition to its construction. "I think the community at large is just tired. They're like, look, let's move on. Let's have the telescope.

Daniel K. Inouye Road was lined with signs at the Mauna Kea Access Road as builders of the Thirty Meter Telescope
attempted to stage the area for delivery of materials and workers. Photo from Big Island Video News

"It may get ugly for awhile. I really hope it doesn't. I really hope that law enforcement is just able to ensure access and we're done with it. But regardless of whether that happens… this is the community's telescope. Even for people who oppose it now.

"We understand that law enforcement has a difficult job to do and this is a complicated situation. We don't want to interfere. We want to minimize the level of which we possibly complicate this situation as much as possible."

Blocking the road up to Mauna Kea's summit today, making transport
of equipment to start building the TMT project impossible.
Photo from Big Island Video News

Currie said law enforcement is organized and that "we should respect the rights of people to protest, to have assembly, to do that peacefully. And I do see some signs of that happening, at least so far with the mayor visiting Puʻu Huluhulu." (See Sunday's Kaʻū News Briefs).

Motorists are urged to exercise caution near the Mauna Kea Access Road on Daniel K. Inouye Highway– the Saddle Road. The state Department of Transportation stationed trucks with flashing lights on the shoulders of the highway a half-mile out from the intersection in both directions. "Please slow down to a reasonable speed and be prepared to stop for pedestrians in the roadway," warned DOT in a public statement.
Mauna Kea Access Road, including its shoulders, are closed to all traffic until further notice, announced the state Department of Conservation and Resources Enforcement.

A festival-like appearance belies the serious mindset of protesters of TMT.
Photo from Big Island Video News

County of Hawaiʻi appealed to the community to "drive with caution and Aloha, and stay safe... There are many people and vehicles along the side of the road near the Mauna Kea Access Road, so please drive with caution."

The statement said the "main mission of the Hawaiʻi Police Department, which is present at the Access Road, is to keep the people safe and to maintain a safe flow of traffic on the Daniel K. Inouye Highway."

Said Mayor Harry Kim, "We want to keep this as peaceful as possible, and the Hawaiʻi Police Department is asking for your help to keep the Saddle Roadopen and safe for everybody. We are all ʻohana of this Islandcommunity."

A small ʻahu, shrine, on Mauna Kea replaced ones that were removed by
the state last month. Photo from Big Island Video News

Kim said he appreciated "the protesters' conduct at the Puʻuhonua site... The main thing is to respect each other, and to keep everyone safe and in peace."

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

LEADERSHIP IN AN AGE OF POLITICAL CONFLICT is the title of the Daniel K. Inouye Distinguished Lecture, live streamed from the Coolidge Auditorium in the Library of Congress on Tuesday, July 16, 12:30 p.m. Hawaiʻi time. The session will feature political strategists from two points of view: David Axelrod and Karl Rove. They plan to discuss leadership, public discourse, political parties, and campaigns in a changing world, in a conversation moderated by former White House correspondent Ann Compton.
Lawmakers from Hawaiʻi are expected to weigh in. U.S. Rep. Scot Matayoshi, a Democrat, said, "Our country is terribly divided right now and part of that is due to people not talking to those with differing viewpoints. Having friends across the aisle helps us to see that we agree on a lot of the end goals, even if we disagree about how to get there. As young leaders, we need to find a way to refocus on the goals and not waste time vilifying the opposition."

The late Sen. Dan Inouye at a Hilo Bandstand rally

in 2010. Photo by Julia Neal

U.S. Rep. Val Okimoto, a Republican, said, "As a member of the minority party in a blue state, it is important to have the voice of the people heard. There are issues we agree and disagree on, but respectful dialogue with aloha is necessary to effectively serve and represent the people of Hawai‘i who may have differing points of view and opinions."

Hosted by the Library's JohnW.KlugeCenter, in conjunction with the Daniel K. Inouye Institute, this is the final lecture in a five-year series designed to celebrate the legacy of the late Honorable Daniel K. Inouye, and the value he placed on the power of bipartisanship.

The conversation will be live-tweeted by both the KlugeCenter and the Inouye Institute: @KlugeCtr and @DKIInstitute (#Inouye), and live-streamed on the Library of Congress' YouTube page at youtube.com/watch?v=1MKgZrC6_cA. The program will also be shown locally on ʻOlelo Community Media on channel 49/1049 on July 26 at 6 p.m., July 28 at 10 p.m., July 29 at 2 p.m., and July 30 at 8 a.m. It will also be archived at olelo.org.

The lecture series is made possible through a donation from the Daniel K. Inouye Institute. The full lectures can be found on the Library of Congress website, and more information can be found at dkii.org/lectures.

The Daniel K. Inouye Institute was established in 2013 and has been working to preserve the late Senator's papers in collaboration with the University of Hawai‘i and the Library of Congress; support civic engagement, community connections, and cross-cultural exchanges; and is focused on establishing a School of Public Policy and Government at the University of Hawai‘i. To learn more about the Inouye Institute and Senator Inouye, visit dkii.org.

The KlugeCenter's mission, as established in 2000, is to "reinvigorate the interconnection between thought and action," bridging the gap between scholarship and policymaking. To that end, the Center brings some of the world's great thinkers to the Library to make use of the Library collections and engage in conversations addressing the challenges facing democracies in the 21st century.

Karl Rove, Ann Compton, and David Axelrod.

Photo from Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is the world's largest library, offering access to the creative record of the United States– and extensive materials from around the world – both on-site and online. It is the main research arm of the U.S. Congress and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office. Explore collections, reference services, and other programs, and plan a visit at loc.gov; access the official site for U.S.federal legislative information at congress.gov; and register creative works of authorship at copyright.gov.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

THE BODY OF THE SWIMMER who disappeared Saturday from GreenSandsBeachwas recovered today, reports Hawaiʻi County Fire Department.

The man, who was in his 20s, was reported missing around 6 p.m. on Saturday, while swimming in MāhanaBay during a High Surf Advisory, which soon turned into a High Surf Warning. His body was found this afternoon at KaulanaBayby a SCUBA diver. The body was located about 750 feet from the shore in about 40 feet of water. Two HFD divers recovered the body and brought it to shore. Hawaiʻi Police Dept. will determine his identity.

GreenSandsBeach and MāhanaBay. The olivine sand beach, one of only
four known in the world, exists in a delicate balance of erosion from
natural and human influences. A young man lost his life while
swimming from the beach on Saturday. DHHL photo

HFD, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Navy conducted the search.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

HIGH SURF ADVISORY for south facing shores of Hawaiʻi Island is issued through Tuesday morning. The High Surf Warning is cancelled. The National Weather Service said, "Even though the threat is reduced, coastal waters remain dangerous." A High Surf Advisory means higher than normal surf, shore break, and dangerous currents could cause injury or death. Expect strong breaking waves, shore break, and rip currents making swimming difficult and dangerous.

NSW said beach-goers, swimmers, and surfers should heed all advice given by ocean safety officials and exercise caution when near or entering the water. Beaches may be closed without notice.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

2019 Kaʻū High School Athletics Schedule through August
See khpes.org/athletics-home for details and updates; Bowling TBA.

Football, Division II:
Mon., July 22, first day Full Pads, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Sat., Aug. 24, 1 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kamehameha

Girls Volleyball, Kaʻū District Gym:
Mon., July 29, 3 to 5 p.m., first day practice
Tue., Aug. 20, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Hilo
Fri., Aug. 23, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts St. Joseph
Wed., Aug. 28, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kohala

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

TUESDAY, JULY 16

The Wonderful World of Wine & Watercolor, Tuesday, July 16, 4-7p.m, Volcano Art Center.

$30/VAC member, $35/non-member, $17 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

After Dark in the Park -Texas Rancher and Painter Alice Leese, HVNP July Artist in Residence, Tuesday, July 16, 7p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. While in the park, Leese – who works her family's 100-year-old ranch – will feel the volcanic panoramas, plants, and animals, then share her artistic interpretations with the public. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, July 17, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Learn About Water Law and how to advocate for water at a Dept. of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries meeting at Pāhala Community Center on Wednesday, July 17, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ka Huli Alo will provide a brief overview of Hawaiʻi legal framework governing water resource management. It will be followed by a discussion on "how homestead communities can advocate for pono, righteous, use and protection of wai, water," says the announcement.

FRIDAY, JULY 19

Free Haircuts, Saturday, July 20, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Kady and Drew Foster. Sign-up sheet on church bulletin board. stjudeshawaii.org

Giving Tree, Saturday, July 20, lower parking lot, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Free clothing and self care items. stjudeshawaii.org

Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Data Survey and Clean-up at Kamilo, Saturday, July 20. Free; donations appreciated. Full - waitlist only. RSVP required. 769-7629, kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com

Hula Kahiko - Kumu Hula Moses Kaho‘okele Crabbe with Hālauolaokalani, Saturday, July 20, 10:30-11:30a.m., hula platform near Volcano Art Center Gallery. Hula performance. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā Mea Hula with Kumu Loke Kamanu & ‘Ohana, Saturday, July 20, 11a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery porch. Hands-on cultural demonstration. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Ham Radio Mtg., Saturday, July 20, 2-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Sounds at the Summit, Desiree Moana Cruz & the Bill Nobel Quintet performance, Saturday, July 20, 5:30p.m., Volcano Art Center. Be-bop, swing, bosanova, salsa, and smooth-jazz-funk. $20/VAC member, $25/non-member. Tickets available for purchase online. Beer, wine, and pupu available for purchase at event. volcanoartcenter.org

SUNDAY, JULY 21

Ka‘ū Chamber of Commerce Mtg., Sunday, July 21, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

ONGOING

ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon, 5K, and Keiki Dash happens Saturday, July 27 in Volcano Village, It replaces the Volcano Rain Forest Runs. Register at ohialehuahalf.com.

Kīlauea Drama & Entertainment Network's Summer Musical: Rodgers and Hammerstein's Flower Drum Song, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., through July 28 at Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater. Tickets are available at Kīlauea General Store, Kea‘au Natural Foods, Basically Books, The Most Irresistible Shop, and at door. $20/general admission, $15/student or over 60, $12/age 12 and under. Park entrance fees may apply. 982-7344, kden73@aol.com, kden.org

Enroll at Volcano School of Arts and Sciences for the 2019-2020 school year, which starts Aug. 5; orientation for new students is Aug. 2. Spaces are available in 1st through 8th grades of the expanding Kula ‘Amakihi Community-Based Education (CBE) Program; the school may also have space or short wait lists for certain grades in the regular on-campus programs. Contact 808-985-9800 or email enrollment@volcanoschool.net to enroll.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

Rendering of the Thirty Meter Telescope for which construction has been delayed, as protesters
continue to gather near the access road. Image from TMT

OPERATORS OF TELESCOPES ON MAUNA KEA sent home their staff today, stating there were safety concerns as the gathering of those opposing the new Thirty Meter Telescope continued near the access road. A group of protesters blocked the access road to Mauna Kea for a short time. Law enforcement officers led the astronomy crew down the access road to leave Mauna Kea. The astronomers said they would work offsite and that the lack of crew at the telescopes sets back research.
Former Gov. Neil Abercrombie said he hopes that the opponents will respect the court decisions that are allowing the project to proceed. There were no arrests of protesters who continue to gather near the access road, some of them camping overnight. See Sunday and Monday's Kaʻū News Briefs.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

CONDEMNING COMMENTS BY PRES. DONALD TRUMP AS RACIST, KAʻŪ 'S REPRESENTATIVE IN THE U.S. CONGRESS, Tulsi Gabbard, voted yes on the resolution that passed the U.S. House of Representatives today. The resolution, which said Trump's recent comments "have legitimized increased fear and hatred of new Americans and people of color," followed tweets from the President, saying four congresswomen should go back to the countries where they came from. They are Reps. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, and Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts. Three of them were born in the U.S.
While Gabbard voted for the resolution, she told news outlets that she remains firm in her opposition to impeaching the President. She said that the next election should take care of who becomes the next President.

The resolution that passed Congress today states:
Whereas the Founders conceived America as a haven
of refuge for people fleeing from religious and political persecution, and Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and James Madison all emphasized that the Nation gained as it attracted new people in search of freedom and livelihood for their families;
Whereas the Declaration of Independence defined America as a covenant based on equality, the unalienable Rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and government by the consent of the people;
Whereas Benjamin Franklin said at the Constitutional convention, “When foreigners after looking about for some other Country in which they can obtain more happiness, give a preference to ours, it is a proof of attachment which ought to excite our confidence and affection”;
Whereas President Franklin D. Roosevelt said, “Remember, remember always, that all of us, and you and I especially, are descended from immigrants and revolutionists”;

Whereas immigration of people from all over the Earth has defined every stage of American history and propelled our social, economic, political, scientific, cultural, artistic, and technological progress as a people, and all Americans, except for the descendants of Native people and enslaved African Americans, are immigrants or descendants of immigrants;

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

Whereas the commitment to immigration and asylum has been not a partisan cause but a powerful national value that has infused the work of many Presidents;
Whereas American patriotism is defined not by race or ethnicity but by devotion to the Constitutional ideals of equality, liberty, inclusion, and democracy and by service to our communities and struggle for the common good;

Whereas President John F. Kennedy, whose family came to the United States from Ireland, stated in his 1958 book A Nation of Immigrants that “The contribution of immigrants can be seen in every aspect of our national life. We see it in religion, in politics, in business, in the arts, in education, even in athletics and entertainment. There is no part of our nation that has not been touched by our immigrant background. Everywhere immigrants have enriched and strengthened the fabric of American life.”;
Whereas President Ronald Reagan in his last speech as President conveyed “An observation about a country which I love”;

Whereas as President Reagan observed, the torch of Lady Liberty symbolizes our freedom and represents our heritage, the compact with our parents, our grandparents, and our ancestors, and it is the Statue of Liberty and its values that give us our great and special place in the world;

Whereas other countries may seek to compete with us, but in one vital area, as “a beacon of freedom and opportunity that draws the people of the world, no country on Earth comes close”;
Whereas it is the great life force of “each generation of new Americans that guarantees that America’s triumph shall continue unsurpassed” through the 21st century and beyond and is part of the “magical, intoxicating power of America”;
Whereas this is “one of the most important sources of America’s greatness: we lead the world because, unique among nations, we draw our people — our strength — from every country and every corner of the world, and by doing so we continuously renew and enrich our nation”;
Whereas “thanks to each wave of new arrivals to this land of opportunity, we’re a nation forever young, forever bursting with energy and new ideas, and always on the cutting edge”, always leading the world to the next frontier;
Whereas this openness is vital to our future as a Nation, and “if we ever closed the door to new Americans, our leadership in the world would soon be lost”; and

Rep. Illhan Omar

Whereas President Donald Trump’s racist comments have legitimized fear and hatred of new Americans and people of color: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives—
(1) believes that immigrants and their descendants have made America stronger, and that those who take the oath of citizenship are every bit as American as those whose families have lived in the United States for many generations;

(2) is committed to keeping America open to those lawfully seeking refuge and asylum from violence and oppression, and those who are willing to work hard to live the American Dream, no matter their race, ethnicity, faith, orcountry of origin; and
(3) strongly condemns President Donald Trump’s racist comments that have legitimized and increased fear and hatred of new Americans and people of color by saying that our fellow Americans who are immigrants, and those who may look to the President like immigrants, should “go back” to other countries, by referring to immigrants and asylum seekers as “invaders,” and by saying that Members of Congress who are immigrants (or those of our colleagues who are wrongly assumed to be immigrants) do not belong in Congress or in the United States of America.

Among Trump's recent tweets that led to the congressional condemnation was the following: "'Progressive' Democrat Congresswomen, who originally came from countries whose governments are a complete and total catastrophe, the worst, most corrupt and inept anywhere in the world (if they even have a functioning government at all), now loudly and viciously telling the people of the United States, the greatest and most powerful Nation on earth, how our government is to be run."

Trump also tweeted that the congresswomen should "go back and help fix the totally broken and crime infested places from which they came."

Further tweets from Trump called the four congresswomen "a bunch of Communists, they hate Israel, they hate our own Country," and referred to them as "Anti-Semitic,""Anti-Israel,""Anti-America,""Pro-terrorist," and as "spewing some of the most vile, hateful, and disgusting things ever said by a politician in the House or Senate."

Rep. Rashida Tlaib

The resolution condemning Trump passed the House today with a vote of 240-187. Four "for" votes were from Republicans, one from an independent who recently left the Republican Party.

Kaʻū's congresswoman commented: "Yet another example of Trump's ignorance & disdain for the values that truly make America great. His comments that 4 US citizen Members of Congress should 'go back' to the countries they came from is further evidence he does not belong in the White House."

Gabbard charged that "Trump's comments were made to foment racism and bigotry, to further divide our country for his own political gain, and put his own interests ahead of the interests of our country. Trump telling Americans who disagree with or even criticize the President that they should 'go back to where they came from' undermines the rights and freedoms that I and my brothers and sisters in uniform have served and sacrificed to protect. Our freedom of speech and right to dissent are the most fundamentally American values that we must all stand up for and protect."

Sen. Mazie Hirono had a direct message: "14 members of Congress are immigrants. No matter what @realDonaldTrump says, we aren't going back where we came from. We're going to stay right here, to fight this racist president and his silent Republican enablers."

Sen. Brian Schatz responded: "I was around 16 when I first heard a version of 'go back to your country.' A drunk white guy screaming at an elderly Filipino lady, saying all kinds of foul stuff. Everyone at that bus stop told him to cut it out and he slinked away. We have to be the people at the bus stop."

Schatz said Trumps comments are "not secretly strategic," but "overtly racist, and it is up to us to make sure it doesn't work."

Rep. Ayanna Pressley

Schatz

, who is of the Jewish faith, also commented on Trump's remarks about Jews. "I have been pretty polite about this and so have other American Jews. But you really have to leave us out of your racist talking points. You are not helping us, you are not helping society, you are not helping Israel. Your racism is your thing and we are not your shield. Don't use Israel politics to obscure or excuse racism.

"Almost every day feels like history is watching - like you have to a pick a side - the past vs the future - racism vs decency - white nationalism vs forming a more perfect union."

Schatz urged listening to what Ocasio-Cortez said: "I want to tell children across this country... that no matter what the president says, this country belongs to you, and it belongs to everyone, and today, that notion – that very notion – was challenged."

Trump's response to the backlash: "Those Tweets were NOT Racist. I don't have a Racist bone in my body! The so-called vote… is a Democrat con game. Republicans should not show 'weakness' and fall into their trap. This should be a vote on the filthy language, statements and lies told by the Democrat Congresswomen, who I truly believe, based on their actions, hate our Country."

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CONCERN OVER SHORTER-TERM CLIMATE MODELS used by the U.S. Geological Survey inspired Sen. Mazie Hirono and 21 of her colleagues to send a letter to USGS Director, Dr. James Reilly, last week. Their concern is over recent reports that USGS will only use climate models that project climate change effects through 2040. USGS has historically used models that projected anticipated climate change impact through the end of the century.

USGS data is used as the basis for many planning decisions made by local, state, and federal governments. In their letter, the Senators raised their concern that these actions appear to be in line with politically motivated moves within the Department of the Interior, and more broadly across the Trump administration, to suppress climate change science. They warned of the dangers of putting science through political filters, which would hinder the United States' ability to understand and address environmental and public health threats.

The Senators wrote that "hiding this information from the American public… paralyzes" informed decision-making to reduce future emissions impacts now. They said they were concerned about "the administration's intent to leave the 'worst case scenario' out of future assessments and their attempt to discredit this scenario" in the Fourth National Climate Assessment. "This is particularly concerning given how our current emissions pathway most closely follows the 'worst case scenario' and that if, as the NCA4 warns, fossil fuel use continues unrestrained, 'the earth's atmosphere could warm by as much as eight degrees Fahrenheit by the end of the century,' which would result in catastrophic societal issues that include decreasing food production and negative impacts on public health."

Hirono has repeatedly called for investigations into the Trump administration's "attempts to suppress scientific data across several federal agencies," says a release from her office. In June, Hirono sent a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Inspector General Phyllis K. Fong, to request an investigation into potential instances of suppression and alteration of scientific reports, documents, or communications produced by USDA. In April, Hirono also sent a letter to then-DOI Deputy Inspector General Mary L. Kendall to request she investigate the suppression of a Fish and Wildlife Service Biological Opinion, that was due to be completed and released in December 2017. The letter specifically called into question actions taken by Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt to suppress scientific data, actions that had drawn concerns in September 2018 from Hirono and her colleagues.

The full text of the letter to Director Reilly is available here.

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"DRIVE WITH ALOHA FOR ALL PEOPLE," is the message from the Hawaiʻi Police Department in a recent release. This weekend, HPD will send officers to patrol across Hawaiʻi Island to look for aggressive drivers.

Intentionally driving with disregard for other people or property is aggressive driving. In Hawaiʻi, said the release, it likely would be defined as "Reckless Driving" and against the law.

In Hawaiʻi, aggressive driving is a major concern that threatens the safety of many travelers on the roadway, states HPD. A recent AAA Foundation survey showed that 9 out of 10 drivers believed that aggressive driving was a "somewhat" or "very serious" threat to their safety. The same survey showed that many drivers admitted to engaging in aggressive driving themselves. Some of these driving behaviors are excessive speeding, reckless overtaking, tail gating, and failing to obey traffic signs and signals.

Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call the island-wide Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300 and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. Crime Stoppers is a volunteer program run by ordinary citizens who want to keep their community safe. Crime Stoppers does not record calls or subscribe to any Caller ID service. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.

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THE 2019-2020 SCHOOL YEAR IS CREEPING UP FAST, with public schools beginning classes at the beginning of August.

At Kaʻū High and Pāhala Elementary School, Kindergarten through 7th grade and 9th grade begin classes Tuesday, Aug. 6. 8th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders begin Wednesday, Aug. 7. Uniform orders are open for pick up as early as Saturday, July 27. Standard school supplies are provided, except a 3.5mm aux connection pair of earbuds or headphones, and a backpack. For 7th grade and up, additional supplies needed are listed on course syllabi. See khpes.org.

Volcano School of Arts and Sciences classes start Monday, Aug. 5; orientation for new students is Friday, Aug. 2. Spaces are available in 1st through 8th grades of the expanding Kula ‘Amakihi Community-Based Education Program. There may be space or short wait lists for certain grades in the regular on-campus programs. Contact 808-985-9800 or email enrollment@volcanoschool.net to enroll. See volcanoschool.net.

Nāʻālehu Elementary School is slated to begin Tuesday, Aug. 6. Call 808-939-2413 for more.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

WEDNESDAY, JULY 17

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, July 17, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Learn About Water Law and how to advocate for water at a Dept. of Hawaiian Home Lands beneficiaries meeting at Pāhala Community Center on Wednesday, July 17, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ka Huli Alo will provide a brief overview of Hawaiʻi legal framework governing water resource management. It will be followed by a discussion on "how homestead communities can advocate for pono, righteous, use and protection of wai, water," says the announcement.

FRIDAY, JULY 19

Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Data Survey and Clean-up at Kamilo, Saturday, July 20. Free; donations appreciated. Full - waitlist only. RSVP required. 769-7629, kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com

SUNDAY, JULY 21

Ka‘ū Chamber of Commerce Mtg., Sunday, July 21, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, JULY 23

Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Tuesday, July 23 (Committees), Wednesday, July 24, (Council), Kona. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

HOVE Road Maintenance Board Mtg., Tuesday, July 23, 10a.m., HOVE Road Maintenance office. 929-9910, gm@hoveroad.com, hoveroad.com

After Dark in the Park - A Rock in the Park: Tale of the Wanderer, Tuesday, July 23, 7p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Join historian Hugh Montgomery and actor Dick Hershberger in a two-man play that brings the epic tale of a rediscovered rock within the Park and the voyages of Benjamin Boyd to life. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

ONGOING

ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon, 5K, and Keiki Dash happens Saturday, July 27 in Volcano Village, It replaces the Volcano Rain Forest Runs. Register at ohialehuahalf.com.

Kīlauea Drama & Entertainment Network's Summer Musical: Rodgers and Hammerstein's Flower Drum Song, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., through July 28 at Kīlauea Military Camp's Kīlauea Theater. Tickets are available at Kīlauea General Store, Kea‘au Natural Foods, Basically Books, The Most Irresistible Shop, and at door. $20/general admission, $15/student or over 60, $12/age 12 and under. Park entrance fees may apply. 982-7344, kden73@aol.com, kden.org

Enroll at Volcano School of Arts and Sciences for the 2019-2020 school year, which starts Aug. 5; orientation for new students is Aug. 2. Spaces are available in 1st through 8th grades of the expanding Kula ‘Amakihi Community-Based Education (CBE) Program; the school may also have space or short wait lists for certain grades in the regular on-campus programs. Contact 808-985-9800 or email enrollment@volcanoschool.net to enroll.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

Peaceful ceremony over the weekend preceded a non-violent blockade of Mauna Kea Access Road today,
leading to 33 arrests of those who oppose the Thirty Meter Telescope. Photo by Manu Yahna

SOME THIRTY-THREE PROTECTORS OF MAUNA KEA submitted themselves to peaceful arrests today. Some stood with canes. Some sat in wheelchairs. Some prostrated themselves on the access road to the future Thirty Meter Telescope site where astronomers and academic institutions aim to launch a decade of construction to complete the largest telescope on the planet. The Protect Mauna Kea group calls the project the desecration of a sacred site.
Pua Case, an opposition leader, urged approximately 1,000 people gathered along Daneil K. Inouye Highway and the access road to remain quiet during the non-violent protests and arrests. Some chanted and some sang as those taken into custody were given misdemeanor citations and released.
At 11:15 a.m., the state Department of Transportation shut down 30 miles of Daniel K. Inouye Highway - the Saddle Road - for 3.5 hours. County Police Department sent out a message saying the highway was closed, with protesters amassing there. Scientists and staff at the observatories already operating on Mauna Kea stayed away from the area, working remotely. Several activists said shutting down the highway was unnecessary since there was no violence. They also said they will come back to be arrested again as they continue their protest.

Noe Noe Wong Wilson, Executive Director of the Lālākea Foundation, arrested at Mauna Kea today.
Photo by Big Island Video News

Rapid Deployment law enforcement officers from Honolulu flew in to help to clear the roads for vehicles to take supplies, equipment, and crew up the mountain to the construction site. They wore protective vests and carried batons and pepper spray.
One of those arrested, Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee Hulu Lindsey, of Waimea, called Mauna Kea her family's piko, belly button or place where life begins. "I love this mauna," she said. Also arrested was Pua Kanakaole Kanahele and Noe Noe Wong Wilson, two esteemed cultural practitioners and kūpuna.
OHA trustee Dan Ahuna commented on the situation: "Our kūpuna are being arrested. Fellow OHA Trustee Hulu Lindsey was taken into custody. Our voices are being ignored. I implore the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to immediately file an injunction to halt any further efforts by the State of Hawaiʻi, UH, and the Thirty Meter Telescope until the matters in our lawsuit are resolved," he said, referring to new legal attempts to stop TMT.
Those arrested are set to go to court in Hilo on Sept. 20 at 8:30 a.m. on state charges of Obstructing Government Operations. The Protectors of Mauna Kea have been gathering along the highway and access road, as well as at Puʻu Hululu, since last weekend, when they held a ceremony and established a refuge.
Throughout the islands, including in Kaʻū, some supporters of the cause to protect Mauna Kea as a sacred site, drove through towns flying Hawaiian sovereignty flags, honking their horns.

A protester and a member of law enforcement embrace, surrounded by other
protesters and law enforcement. Photo from Big Island Video News

On Oʻahu, a group of Hawaiians led by Kumu Hula Vickie Takamine Holt, visited the office of Suzanne Case, Chair of the state Board of Land & Natural Resources. Her Department of Land & Natural Resources oversees DOCARE - Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement officers, involved in making the arrests and keeping the peace. Takamine Holt said that the system is not working for Native Hawaiians.
Activists also held ceremonies with chant and hula at University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and outside Gov. David Ige's office.
Late this afternoon, the governor issued an emergency proclamation, giving the state broader authority to close roads, control crowds, and call in the National Guard, if necessary. Ige described the protests as illegal when they block the roads and prevent other people from driving on them. He described law enforcement officers as very respectful but said that arrests will continue if roads are blocked. The proclamation says that "the Thirty Meter Telescope International Observatory, LLC, has a permit to construct the Thirty Meter Telescope and has a right to access Mauna Kea for such construction purposes."See the entire proclamation.

According to polls conducted in 2018 by Ward Research and reported by Honolulu Star Advertiser, about 75 percent of residents, including Native Hawaiians, support TMT.

Puʻu Huluhulu, where Protectors of Mauna Kea set up a refuge. Photo by Manu Yanha

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STEAM VENTS PARKING LOT IS CLOSED TOMORROW, Thursday, July 18 from 8 a.m. to noon, as Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park staff continue efforts to eradicate little fire ants from the area. If the weather is unfavorable, Monday, July 22 will be the alternate date.
Only the Steam Vents parking lot and the trail from the parking lot to Wahinekapu, Steaming Bluff, will be closed; Wahinekapu and Crater Rim Trail will remain open.
Park pest control workers are treating Steam Vents every four to six weeks, with closures announced in news releases, nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes, and via social media. The goal is to completely exterminate the ants from the area. To date, staff have completed three treatment cycles at Steam Vents, and have observed a decreased presence of LFA.
For more information on LFA, how to control them and how to prevent spreading them, visit littlefireants.com.

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EXPERIENCE VOLCANO FESTIVAL has released new details, describing the upcoming event as "a celebration of arts and culture that springs from the creative rain forest community," to showcase and share it with residents and visitors. The Fest happens Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at locations all around VolcanoVillage. Admission to all events is free. A shuttle runs through the Village once an hour. Main parking areas suggested are Lava Rock Café, Volcano Winery, and Akatsuka Orchid Farm.

Residents and visitors are invited to enjoy art, food, music, and performances. Events span the whole of the Volcano area, from AkatsukaOrchidGardensto the Volcano Winery, with a concentration of activities in the heart of historic VolcanoVillage. See schedule for activity times and locations.

Restaurants will feature special menus. Aunty Pons Thai Food Truck will be at Volcano Winery all day Saturday. Tuk Tuk Thai food truck will be at Akatsuka Orchid Farm all day Saturday and at Volcano Winery all day Sunday.

A variety of musical performances are offered, including Randy Lorenzo, Lito Arkangel, Loyd Longakit & Doug Espejo, Loren & Lauren, Keoki Kahumoku, and Ola Tripp Jr. on Saturday. On Sunday, Lauren Elle Broido, Veronica Rose, The Brown Boys, Makana Kamahele, and William Kauhane perform.

Hawaiian culture activities include an opening oli, chant, both days at 9 a.m., and ʻukulele lessons, hula performances, and lei making.

Attendees are invited to get directly involved with the creation of artwork through make-and-take projects at Volcano Garden Arts, and to see ongoing art demonstrations at VolcanoArtCenter's Niʻaulani Campus.

Offered especially to keiki are Lili Farm House Petting Zoo, Kids Activity Corner, and Keiki & ʻOhana Time Activities.

Winery and orchid tours are offered. Attend a workshop or demonstration about tea (booking in advance – see schedule), quilting, Hawaiian block printing, poi pounding, ceramics, pottery, orchids, batik, bansai, raku, wine, and more. Take a group walk in the rainforest or to learn about Historic Homes of Volcano, or take a self-guided rainforest tour.

There is also a drawing that is entered by attendees having the schedule, available at the event, stamped at each of the main locations: Volcano Garden Arts, Lava Rock Café, Kīlauea Lodge, Volcano Winery, VolcanoArtCenter, Akatsuka Orchid Farm, and 2400 Fahrenheit Glass Studio. Cards are turned in at the seventh location visited. Prizes include a two-night stay at The Crater's Edge worth $500. The drawing happens Monday, July 29.

Experience Volcano is a group of businesses and residents helping to rebuild the recovering economy of Volcano, following last year's volcanic disaster that shut down Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and drastically reduced visitor counts. "Long appreciated as one of the 'hidden gems' of Hawaiʻi, Volcano is more than just a gateway to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park," states the website for the group and Fest. See experiencevolcano.com for a full event schedule and map.

The Fest is coordinated with VolcanoVillage's new annual race, ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon, which happens Saturday, July 27. The event includes a 5K and a Keiki Dash. The half-marathon begins at 7 a.m. at VolcanoSchool of Arts & Sciences'Haunani Road campus. The 5K starts from the same location at 7:15 a.m. The Keiki Dash takes place in the VSAS field at 10 a.m., and will consist of two races: a 300 meter run for the 6 and under age group, and a 600 meter for the 7 to 10 year old age group. Registration online at ohialehuahalf.com.

ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon course.

When Volcano resident, Keely McGhee, and local runners, Nick and Kelly Muragin, heard that Volcano Rain Forest Runs was cancelled, said McGhee, they "came together to create this new race for a cause that they all strongly believe in," to "bring business to the Volcano area while providing a low cost running event for the community." A portion of the proceeds from the race will go to assist with research on the prevention of Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death through University of Hawaiʻi Foundation.

Directed by Hawaiʻi Island Racers, the new race will fill the gap left by the end of Volcano Rain Forest Runs' nine years of competition.

VolcanoSchool of Arts & Sciences will open their campus to runners and spectators to sponsor the inaugural event and aid in the fight against ROD.

Registration prices before/after July 25: Half Marathon $75/$85, 5K $40/$45; Keiki Dash is $10/child. Late registration packets can be picked up Friday, July 26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., location to be determined, or Saturday, July 27, 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m.at the VSAS race site.

The Half Marathon and 5K feature an elevation change of 500 feet, rolling hills, and aid stations.

To register and for more info, visit ohialehuahalf.com. Questions? Email the Race Director at ohialehuahalf@gmail.com.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

TALK ACTION, TAKE ACTION SURVEYS regarding 2018's Kīlaueaeruption recovery are available for all Hawaiʻi County residents through Aug. 4 at recovery.hawaiicounty.gov/connect/i
mpact-status-survey-suite. The surveys focus on different areas of recovery: households, businesses, and community. They are part of the second phase of recovery under the county's Talk Action, Take Action initiative. The initiative will use these three surveys to collect community input, which will shape both near- and long-term recovery efforts on Hawaiʻi Island, with a particular focus on the Puna District.

The county also invites residents to drop in at the Kīlauea Eruption SpeakOut event on Saturday, July 27 at Keaʻau High School, from 8:30 a.m.to 4 p.m. This fun family-friendly event will be interactive and offer practical know-how. Refreshments will be available.

Hard copies of the surveys can also be picked up at Council member offices, the Department of Research & Development, the Planning Department, and at the SpeakOut and at other community events.

Diane Ley, Director of Research & Development for the county, said, "We hope anyone affected by the Kīlauea eruption will fill out these surveys. By better understanding the specific needs of the community, individuals and businesses at this time, the recovery framework and resulting initiatives will better address the improved well-being of all still recovering. We invite everyone invested in Hawaiʻi Island to respond. The greater the participation, the more clarity the County and its community partners will have moving forward on recovery."

The Household Impact and Opportunity Assessment will help clarify what unmet needs families are experiencing. It will guide family outreach and long-term community planning.

The Community Impact and Opportunity Assessment will provide direction for decisions about long-term recovery, including hazard mitigation, land use, natural and cultural resource management, infrastructure investments, housing, and economic development. The Puna Community Development Plan Action Committee will use the survey to make informed recommendations on priority objectives at its Tuesday, August 6 meeting.

The Business Impact and Opportunity Assessment follows up on last year's business survey. The results will identify ongoing economic impacts as well as challenges and opportunities for business recovery.

Unless one chooses to be contacted individually, the information from the surveys will be anonymous.

The surveys cover a range of topics, from questions about development in areas with adequate access, to asking individuals and families if they are still in need of replacement housing.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

FRIDAY, JULY 19

Free Haircuts, Saturday, July 20, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Kady and Drew Foster. Sign-up sheet on church bulletin board. stjudeshawaii.org

Giving Tree, Saturday, July 20, lower parking lot, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Free clothing and self care items. stjudeshawaii.org

Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Data Survey and Clean-up at Kamilo, Saturday, July 20. Free; donations appreciated. Full - waitlist only. RSVP required. 769-7629, kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com

SUNDAY, JULY 21

Ka‘ū Chamber of Commerce Mtg., Sunday, July 21, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, JULY 23

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24

Kāhili Demonstration, Wednesday, July 24, 10a.m.-noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. Create a small kāhili pa‘a lima, a handheld feather standard. Free; park entrance fees apply. nps.gov/havo

ONGOING

ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon, 5K, and Keiki Dash happens Saturday, July 27 in Volcano Village, It replaces the Volcano Rain Forest Runs. Register at ohialehuahalf.com.

Enroll at Volcano School of Arts and Sciences for the 2019-2020 school year, which starts Aug. 5; orientation for new students is Aug. 2. Spaces are available in 1st through 8th grades of the expanding Kula ‘Amakihi Community-Based Education (CBE) Program; the school may also have space or short wait lists for certain grades in the regular on-campus programs. Contact 808-985-9800 or email enrollment@volcanoschool.net to enroll.

Exhibit -The Joy of the Brush: Paintings by Linda J. Varez, daily through Sunday, Aug. 4, 9a.m.-5p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees may apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

Kupuna held a press conference on Thursday, objecting to Gov. David Ige's emergency proclamation. They said their
protest is peaceful and calls for ho`oponopono instead of calling in the National Guard, as they block
the access road to Mauna Kea where construction is scheduled for the Thirty Meter Telescope.
Photo by Big Island Video News

A MORATORIUM ON THIRTY METER TELESCOPE CONSTRUCTION is the request from state Sen. Kai Kahele, of Hilo whose family roots are in the Hawaiian village of Miloli`i. Kahele said he would ask Gov. David Ige for a 60-day cooling off period and ho`oponopono (coming together and mediation). He told the Hawai`i Tribune Herald, "I think it's time to have meaningful conversations for the future of Mauna Kea. And I think it's time for people cool off, both sides, before things get out of control."
Kahele's remarks came after a full day Thursday without arrests and without a strong law enforcement presence at the intersection of Daniel K. Inouye Highway and the Mauna Kea Access Road where up to 1,000 people have gathered to object to the construction of the most powerful telescope in history. They call the construction a desecration of a sacred place. Telescope supporters call the construction an investment in knowledge.

Kahele objected to Gov. David Ige issuing an Emergency Proclamation on Wednesday, following the arrests of 34 people blocking access to the construction site for the telescope and peacefully submitting to being taken into custody. Kupuna, who were arrested and released, held a press conference Wednesday morning calling for peaceful negotiations and objecting to any state of emergency proclaimed by government.
Kahele told the Tribune Herald, "I don't think it warrants a state of emergency. I think it warrants an opportunity for us to have meaningful conversation about how we moved forward."
He contended that "Declaring a state of emergency only escalates the situation. If you bring in the National Guard, I'm in the National Guard. These are my brothers and sisters who I stand side by side in uniform with. They're not prepared for this. They haven’t gone through the training that local law enforcement has gone through. They’re your friends and your neighbors, just like our police officers are, many of whom were emotionally affected (when arrests were carried out) because they were just doing their job.”
Kahele pointed to the arrests of some of the elder Protectors of Mauna Kea, whom he described as "revered leaders in our community who have given so much to our community and our culture." He said the Mauna Kea issue "is going to tear this community and these islands apart if we don't pivot in another direction." He suggested using "the words the kia'i (guardians, protectors) have been using, to move forward in Kapu Aloha," reported the Tribune Herald. See much more on the Kahele story at Hawaii Tribune Herald.
In the meantime, flag and sign waiving events sprang up around the islands on Thursday, with one planned in Na`alehu for tomorrow.

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VIRTUAL DOCTOR VISITS are available in Kaʻū and throughout the state. The parent company of Longs Drugs, CVS Health, announced that people with "minor illnesses and injuries, skin conditions, and other wellness needs can now seek care" with MinuteClinic Video Visits. A telehealth offering, the service will provide patients in Hawaiʻi, residents or visitors, with 24-hour access to care from a mobile device or computer.

A MinuteClinic Video Visit costs $59, which is only payable by credit, debit, FSA, and HSA cards. Insurance coverage will be added to the experience in the coming months, states CVS.

A CVS Health study found that 95 percent of telehealth pilot patients were "highly satisfied" with the quality of care, with the convenience, and with the overall telehealth experience. Since MinuteClinic Video Visits launched in August 2018, thousands of Video Visits have been conducted in 18 states and Washington, D.C., with more than half taking place outside of traditional clinic hours.

Video visits can be used to provide care for patients ages two years and older. Each patient will complete a health questionnaire and be matched to a board-certified health care provider licensed in their state, who will review the completed questionnaire with the patient's medical history, assess the patient's condition, and determine appropriate treatment. Necessary prescriptions are submitted to the patient's preferred pharmacy. If a patient should be seen in person for follow-up care or testing, the provider will recommend the patient visit a local health care provider.

Sharon Vitti, President of MinuteClinic, said, "We're excited to continue to expand the availability of MinuteClinic Video Visits across eight additional states," totaling 26. She said the expansion of the service enables CVS to "provide even more people with access to an innovative, on-demand health care option and demonstrates our commitment to delivering high-quality care when and where our patients need it, at prices they can afford."

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LEGISLATION TO FUND EDUCATION FOR NURSES passed the Energy and Commerce Committee yesterday in the U.S. House of Representatives. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard applauded the passage of H.R.728, the Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act. It would provide the largest source of federal funding for financial support for nursing education programs, students, and nurses.

For five decades, these programs have helped build the supply and distribution of qualified nurses in all health care settings, from entry-level preparation through graduate study. According to the Health Resources and Services Administration, these programs provided loans, scholarships, and programmatic support to over 450,000 nursing students and nurses between FY 2006 and 2012 alone.

Said Gabbard, "Our nation is in dire need of nurses who, every day, serve as the heart of our healthcare system, providing care to those who need it most. Rural and underserved communities, like those in my district and across the country, are hardest hit by the national nursing shortage.

"As a co-chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus, passage of our bipartisan bill, the Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act, by the Energy and Commerce Committee is the first step toward the urgent action Congress must take to ensure we build a 21st Century nursing workforce that will serve the needs of all our people."

Dr. Ann Cary, Chair of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses Board of Directors, said, "Without a strong nursing workforce, our country cannot realize the goals of increasing access and improving quality in our healthcare system. I commend our nursing champions¸ including Congresswoman Gabbard our House Nursing Caucus Co-Chair, for advancing this legislation to the House floor."

Dr. Deborah Trautman, President and Chief Executive Officer of AACN, said, "We applaud the work of our nursing champions to advance Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization. Nurses are an integral part of our healthcare system, and this legislation is vital to the continued health of our profession."

Gabbard is the co-chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus and introduced the bipartisan H.R.728, the Title VIII Nursing Workforce Reauthorization Act with caucus co-chair Rep. Dave Joyce (OH-14). She works toward improved workplace safety and standards for nurses. She fought for the Safe Staffing for Nurse and Patient Safety Act of 2018, the Health Care Workplace Violence Prevention Act, and hosted a Congressional briefing focused on the severe shortage of nurses in Hawai‘i and across the country.

She recently joined her colleagues in introducing the Nurse Staffing Standards for Hospital Patient Safety and Quality Care Act, which would set minimum nurse-to-patient staffing requirements for direct-care registered nurses, requires a study of staffing requirements for direct care licensed practice nurses, and provides whistleblower protections.

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THE ART OF TAIKO: ENERGY WITH KENNY ENDO presentation happens at Pāhala Public & School Library tomorrow, Friday, July 19 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. The event is free.
    The Taiko Ensemble will perform contemporary pieces such as Soaring, Jugoya (Crystal Clear Moon), Moonwind(Backside of the Moon), and Winds of Change.
The 45-minute presentation is suitable for all ages. Young children must be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver.
     "Like all phenomena in this universe, taiko, Japanese drumming, is a result of forces interacting and affecting one another. Master taiko artist Endo has been inspired by space, the heavens, and universal energy in his original compositions," says a statement from the library.
     Sponsored by Friends of the Library of Hawai‘i and the 2019 Summer Reading Sponsors, the program is a production of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Outreach College's Statewide Cultural Extension Program, with funding and support provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, Hawaiʻi State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, and UH-Mānoa.
     For a list of upcoming library events, visit librarieshawaii.org/branch/pahala-public-and-school-library or call 808-928-2015.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

FRIDAY, JULY 19

Taiko Drumming Presentation by Kenny Endo, Friday, July 19, 1:30-2:15p.m, Pāhala Public & School Library. Suitable for all ages. Young children must be accompanied by parent or adult caregiver. Free. Carol Dodd, 928-2015, librarieshawaii.org

SATURDAY, JULY 20
Free Haircuts, Saturday, July 20, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Kady and Drew Foster. Sign-up sheet on church bulletin board. stjudeshawaii.org

Giving Tree, Saturday, July 20, lower parking lot, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Free clothing and self care items. stjudeshawaii.org

Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund Data Survey and Clean-up at Kamilo, Saturday, July 20. Free; donations appreciated. Full - waitlist only. RSVP required. 769-7629, kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com

Beginner & Intermediate Mixed Media Encaustic with Mary Milelzcik, Saturday, July 20, 10a.m.-2p.m., Volcano Art Center. $55/VAC member, $60/non-member, plus $25 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Hula Kahiko - Kumu Hula Moses Kaho‘okele Crabbe with Hālauolaokalani, Saturday, July 20, 10:30-11:30a.m., hula platform near Volcano Art Center Gallery. Hula performance. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Nā Mea Hula with Kumu Loke Kamanu & ‘Ohana, Saturday, July 20, 11a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery porch. Hands-on cultural demonstration. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

Ham Radio Mtg., Saturday, July 20, 2-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Sounds at the Summit, Desiree Moana Cruz & the Bill Nobel Quintet performance, Saturday, July 20, 5:30p.m., Volcano Art Center. Be-bop, swing, bosanova, salsa, and smooth-jazz-funk. $20/VAC member, $25/non-member. Tickets available for purchase online. Beer, wine, and pupu available for purchase at event. volcanoartcenter.org

SUNDAY, JULY 21

Ka‘ū Chamber of Commerce Mtg., Sunday, July 21, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, JULY 23

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24

THURSDAY, JULY 25

Ka‘ū Community Children's Council, Thursday, July 25, 3-4p.m., Classroom 35, Building F, Nā‘ālehu Elementary School. Provides local forum for all community members to come together as equal partners to discuss and positively affect multiple systems' issues for the benefit of all students, families, and communities. Chad Domingo, text 808-381-2584, domingoc1975@yahoo.com, ccco.k12.hi.us

Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, Thursday, July 25, 4-6p.m., Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Free community dinner for all. Additional packaged goods to take home for those in need. Donations and volunteers encouraged. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

ONGOING

ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon, 5K, and Keiki Dash happens Saturday, July 27 in Volcano Village, It replaces the Volcano Rain Forest Runs. Register before Thursday, July 25 for lower entry fees. See ohialehuahalf.com.

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Law enforcement vehicles and the sovereignty flag at Mauna Kea, where a peaceful gathering of those opposed
to construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope continues. Photo by Kaweni Māsaniai-Ibarra

THE MAUNA KEA STANDOFF drew Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Mazie Hirono, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Rep. Ed Case, and Lt. Gov. Josh Green to voice their opinions this week. The elected officials addressed the Protectors of Mauna Kea's efforts to preserve the top of the mountain as a cultural site, while the scientific community plans to construct the Thirty Meter Telescope to carry out the most sophisticated deep space research to date. The public officials commended on the Protectors' nonviolent practices, which included arrests by law enforcement officers on Tuesday, as Protectors blocked the Mauna Kea Access Road. The vigil continued into its fifth day on Friday with little interaction with police. TMT staff had planned to begin construction of the telescope on Monday.
Bernie Sanders, who is running for U.S. President, said, "We must guarantee native peoples' right to self-determination and their right to protest. I stand with Native Hawaiians who are peacefully demonstrating to protect their sacred mountain of Mauna Kea."
The other presidential candidate who commented is Kaʻū's member of the House of Representatives. Tulsi Gabbard urged Gov. David Ige to withdraw the emergency declaration that he proclaimed yesterday when he announced security concerns. Gabbard, like Sen. Kai Kahele (See Thursday's Kaʻū News Briefs), called for a moratorium on TMT construction. She asked the governor to "delay any new construction, and bring leaders together from both sides in the spirit of aloha to hoʻoponopono and determine the best path forward. The people of a given ʻāina must have a role to play in what happens in their ʻāina."

The Protectors of Mauna Kea established a refuge site at Puʻu Huluhulu. Photo by Kaweni Māsaniai-Ibarra

Though TMT may have the legal right to proceed, there are "spiritual and cultural issues that have not been addressed. This is about something much greater than the TMT project — it has to do with longstanding history on Mauna Kea, broken promises, desecration of sacred land, and disrespect for native culture," said the congresswoman. "While no one can change the past, now is the time for leaders to build a new, just path for the future. Trust must be earned — it is wrong that state leaders have approved the development of a new telescope on a new site on Mauna Kea, without first ensuring the timely removal of decommissioned facilities along with full restoration of those sites. This failure and a history of broken promises has resulted in the standoff that we are seeing today, and the lack of trust that government promises to respect the ʻāina and sacred places will be kept."
Gabbard said that "To many Native Hawaiians, kamaʻāina, and malihini alike, Mauna Kea is so much more than a mountain. It's a revered and sacred sanctuary connecting keiki and kūpuna to the past, present and future, and where Native Hawaiians practice their customs and traditions.
"The materialistic way that developers and corporations are viewing Mauna Kea — ignoring the spiritual significance and relationship many Native Hawaiians have with the Mauna — is at the heart of the problem… Mauna Kea has been a source of spiritual inspiration for so many generations, and will continue to offer that inspiration in the future, if it is not desecrated by those whose hearts are too hard to appreciate the value of the unseen transcendental/spiritual reality that is not visible to our physical eyes."

Protectors of Mauna Kea learned techniques of peaceful resistance. Elected officials applauded them for
their nonviolent approach. Photo by Kaweni Māsaniai-Ibarra

She said it is "hypocritical" that many who support TMT "speak of their own spiritual quest for knowledge and wisdom, while simultaneously closing their eyes to the spiritual inspiration and significance that Mauna Kea offers — not only to Native Hawaiians but to humanity at large. Spiritual nourishment and inspiration is of much greater and lasting value than anything money can buy." She said "this spiritual blindness" is often born out of arrogance or greed, and is at the root of the "desecration of our precious environment. Ua mau ke ea o ka ʻāina i ka pono. The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness. This shouldn't be just a slogan. It must be our way of life."
Mazie Hirono said, "I am concerned for the safety of the protectors, including kūpuna, who are exercising their constitutional right to peacefully protest at Mauna Kea. This project has undergone a significant and thorough regulatory and legal review, and I respect that process."
Ed Case, who formerly represented Kaʻū in congress, and now represents urban Oʻahu, said, "I support the continuation of world-class astronomy on Mauna Kea, including completion of the TMT, together with the commitment to the removal of five current telescopes to broader community engagement."

Josh Green, a physician who represented west Kaʻū as state senator before his election to lieutenant governor, said, "First and most important in my opinion, there must not be any violence on Mauna Kea. That would cause irreparable damage to our state and people, culturally and spiritually."

Men learned to maintain a nonaggressive approach in order to keep a calm relationship with law enforcement
during the gatherings near the Mauna Kea Access Road. Photo by Kaweni Māsaniai-Ibarra

Responding to the governor's emergency proclamation, which would allow the state to call in the National Guard, Green said he respects the Protectors of Mauna Kea's peaceful approach to date. The National Guard "should only be used when there is no other way to protect life and safety.
"I believe that this struggle is more about the heart of Hawaiʻi and our sense of self and dignity, especially for the Hawaiian people, than it is about a telescope. It is about cultural recognition and people's self worth. Know that I will always put safety, health, and human growth above any project.

Said Green, "I also know that all voices, pro and con, should be heard, and that is how I will approach this period in our state's beautiful history."

Green said he will meet with anyone "with any view on this critical issue for Hawaiʻi. I will meet people where they fight for liberty, on the mountain if asked, on the streets, in my office (which is your office, too), on long walks, wherever necessary. I do this because if there is some path to harmony, we should find it together." He emphasized that "no single project, not any, is important enough to allow ourselves to damage the fabric of our ʻOhana in Hawaiʻi. Please continue to embrace one another with love and respect, peacefully, no matter what your position is on the TMT and the sacred mountain."

He gave his cell phone number, (808)937-0991, for members of the public to contact him.

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Protectors of Mauna Kea.
Photo by Kaweni Māsaniai-Ibarra

SAFETY IS THE TOP PRIORITY, said Protectors of Mauna Kea. As part of daily safety briefings this week, kiaʻi offered their manaʻo, beliefs, and expectations of conduct for the mauna. On Friday morning, leaders stressed the importance of minimal impact on the environment and practicing peaceful ceremonies. Pua Case, Kahoʻokahi Kanuha, and Kaleikoa Kāʻeo were among those who offered speeches in preparation.

A gracefully organized crowd listened as the kiaʻi laid out expectations and protocol for de-escalating situations, and peacefully interacting with law enforcement and military personnel.‪ "When they come in with pepper spray, mace, and LRADs, all we singing is love, love, love... aloha, e aloha e," said Kahoʻokahi when stressing the importance of language use in situations.

Protectors pointed out that Gov. David Ige declared a state of emergency this week, mobilizing law enforcement and military personnel. Protectors said they are prepared to remain peaceful and practice Kapu Aloha in every way possible. See tomorrow's Kaʻū News Briefs for more.

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GOV. DAVID IGE HELD A TMT AND MAUNA KEA press conference in Hilo this afternoon. After meeting with Mayor Harry Kim and other local officials, Ige said he will continue the state of emergency, but is not inclined to call in the National Guard.
He said, "I spent the afternoon meeting with Mayor Kim and others to discuss the way forward with the Thirty Meter Telescope project. My number one priority has been and continues to be the safety of all people. I am committed to avoiding violence by anyone and keeping everyone safe. Because of this, I have decided not to escalate the situation by calling in additional National Guard troops at this time. I have never, ever, considered using tear gas at Mauna Kea.

Gov. David Ige in Hilo today.
Photo from Big Island Video News

"However, there are thousands of people on the mountain and I encourage all to remain respectful and calm. There are inadequate bathroom and rubbish facilities for this many people, and we are seeing the impacts on the environment. Pedestrians are running back and forth across a major highway, at night, and in bad weather when visibility is poor. There are reports of drugs and alcohol use.
"There are many groups, and they don't all agree about why they are there, or what they intend to do. Leaders of the Puʻuhonua have not been able to maintain order and the neutral terms of the Puʻuhonua. The emergency proclamation remains in effect because of this unsafe situation. This is a complicated set of issues and the emotions are fueled by a desire for many things. Some of these issues we can work towards, some we can not. But I remain committed to finding those places of common ground.
"Both the mayor and I have had many discussions with many people, but many of the leaders of this protest do not want to meet. They would rather post to social media, spread rumors and fear, rather than engage in real world conversations about how we move forward together. Right now I am asking the leaders of this protest to commit to keeping everyone safe, to working together towards the many issues that are fueling the protest. We have lots to do. I will continue these conversations and I encourage others to join in the conversations, to talk about the many issues surrounding Mauna Kea."

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

SATURDAY, JULY 20

Free Haircuts, Saturday, July 20, St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Kady and Drew Foster. Sign-up sheet on church bulletin board. stjudeshawaii.org

SUNDAY, JULY 21

Ka‘ū Chamber of Commerce Mtg., Sunday, July 21, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, JULY 23

HOVE Road Maintenance Board Mtg., Tuesday, July 23, 10a.m., HOVE Road Maintenance office. 929-9910, gm@hoveroad.com, hoveroad.com

After Dark in the Park - A Rock in the Park: Tale of the Wanderer, Tuesday, July 23, 7p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Join historian Hugh Montgomery and actor Dick Hershberger in a two-man play that brings the epic tale of a rediscovered rock within the Park and the voyages of Benjamin Boyd to life. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24

THURSDAY, JULY 25

FRIDAY, JULY 26

Coffee Talk at Kahuku, Friday, July 26, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Free. nps.gov/havo

ONGOING

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Protectors of Mauna Kea fly flags and signs in Ocean View on Friday. Photo by Yvette Slack

PROTECTORS OF MAUNA KEA DREW SOME 1,600 PEOPLE THIS WEEKEND to Puʻu Honua o Puʻu Huluhulu near the Mauna Kea Access Road. Puʻu Huluhulu has become a gathering place for those opposing construction of the giant Thirty Meter Telescope near the summit of Mauan Kea. In Kaʻū, Protectors flew flags and held signs for their cause on Friday in Ocean View and Nāʻālehu.
The Protectors, called kiaʻi, are blocking Mauna Kea Access Road, to prevent equipment from traveling to the TMT construction site. For their own base camp, the Protectors brought in portable restrooms and food service - some Protectors have camped there or stayed in their vehicles nearby since last weekend.
The Thirty Meter Telescope, the largest telescope on the planet, was cleared for construction after a ten year legal battle. Staging construction was scheduled to begin last Monday.

Mayor Harry Kim visited Puʻu Huluhulu today and said he respected the Protectors' nonviolent behavior. He said "this could've turned ugly a long time ago."

Friday sign waiving in Nāʻālehu to Aloha ʻĀina - love the land and to Protect Mauna Loa. Photo by Yvette Slack

The mayor said he supports construction of TMT, but "I wish it was different… I understand what you're saying, and I hope you understand that I feel a little bit of what you're saying… We all see different things, but I'll tell you how I feel: For the first time in my 80 years of life, I see a group of people finally coming together to feel proud of being who you are, because you are the most beautiful, warmest, givingest people on God's Earth."

Community leaders from around the state also visited the Protectors at Mauna Kea to determine for themselves whether Gov. David Ige's emergency proclamation regarding safety issues connected to the protest was well founded. Honolulu City Council member Heidi Tsuneyoshi said, "I do not see a state of emergency. I actually see a state of humanity." She said the Protectors are well organized, "and the feeling that is here is one of peace and harmony, and something that we can all learn from."

Mauna Kea Protectors at Nāʻālehu Theatre. Photo by Yvette Slack

On Thursday, kūpuna helping to direct the peaceful gatherings talked to the media, some of them having been arrested for blocking the Mauna Kea Access Road.

Walter Ritte, a kiaʻi kūpuna, charged that the governor is "abusing his powers. He's making all of us look bad, in front of the whole world. This is not a volcano that's erupting, or some kind of a huge protest that is out of control."

Ritte is known for the successful protest to stop the military bombing of the Hawaiian Island of Kahoʻolawe in the 1970s.

Kumu Hula Victoria Holt Takamine, of Oʻahu, said she and others living on Oʻahu are passionate about the TMT issue. She flew to Hawaiʻi Island to join the Protectors and teach hula at Puʻu Huluhulu.
The kumu said the governor's emergency proclamation upset her, as he referred to the indigenous people "illegally occupying" the Mauna. She said that pushed her to declare a state of emergency for the nation of Hawaiʻi: "We are now in a state of emergency, in Kapu Aloha."

Gathering at Puʻu Huluhulu. Photo by Kaweni Masaniai-Ibarra

Another kupuna, Billy Freitas, said it is important to remember the sacrifices of "our last queen," Liliʻioukalani, "to allow us to prove to the nations of the world that we still exist as a Hawaiian kingdom… If our Lāhui rises up, remind ourselves of Kapu Aloha," which he said means "we stand in truth."
Another kupuna announced websites that support the efforts of kiaʻi include hawaiicommunitybailfund .org, kahea.org, Puʻu Honua O Puʻu Huluhulu, mkea.info, and more. See the video at Big Island Video News.

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PARKING RULES NEAR MAUNA KEA ACCESS ROAD along Daniel K. Inouye Highway, will be enforced, warns Hawaiʻi County Police Department. "Hawaiʻi County Code 24-202 addresses parking on Federal-aid highways and prohibits vehicle parking for longer than sixty-minutes between the hours of 2 a.m.and 6 a.m. Where parking is permitted, all parking shall be parallel to the pavement with all wheels entirely off the traveled way. Violations are subject to being cited and potentially towed," reads the announcement. "Police are asking for the public's cooperation to mitigate traffic collisions and congestion along Daniel K. Inouye Highway."

Dance is a regular occurrence at the Protectors of Mauna Kea gatherings. Photo by Big Island Video News

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SHUTDOWN OF ACCESS TO MAUNA KEA is affecting local businesses. Mauna Kea Summit Adventures owner Pat Wright told Hawaiʻi News Nowthat his company's sunset and stargazing tours account for 100 percent of his business. He told HNN, "The gross revenue loss is around $31,000 as of today." Eight businesses have permits to take tours up the access road to Mauna Kea, reports HNN.

HNN reports Wright is a neutral party in the fight between proponents and opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope. However, he told HNN his business, open since 1982, could close if the access road remains closed. "I wouldn't call that a stretch at all. I'd call that a real possibility. You can't run a business when you can't open a door," said Wright.

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ASTRONOMERS ARE AFFECTED BY THE MAUNA KEA Access Road shutdown. They said that while the humans can work remotely, the telescopes need maintenance in order to continue their research.

A group of Mauna Kea observatory directors wrote a letter, released Friday, to "offer a perspective about the Maunakea situation with the sincere hope that our words encourage greater understanding of the complex circumstances in which we find ourselves." They wrote on behalf of about 500 people, employed by Maunakea Observatories, "many of whom are born and raised in Hawaiʻi, feel a deep and personal connection to the special people and place of our Hawai‘i Island home. We live and work together in a community where our success is measured by the quality of our relationships…

Billy Freitas in red, left, sits next to Walter Ritte. Standing, in the white cap,
Victoria Holt Takamine is surrounded by other kūpuna.
Photo from Big Island Video News

"The diverse mix of scientists, technicians, engineers, administrators, and students of the Maunakea Observatories continually seek a path forward that strengthens the future of our island community. Our local staff, family members, and friends have a wide range of views and strong feelings about the events that surround us. We deeply respect all these viewpoints, which come from our family and friends, and we both believe and champion their right to express them."
They wrote about the disagreements that will take "mutual respect and time to heal. We know these challenges across our island home have gained attention with our peers in the international astronomy community… The future of Maunakea astronomy will be defined primarily by the diverse people of Hawaiʻi.

"The vast majority of island residents support the Maunakea Observatories, who have been part of this community for more than 50 years. Conflict about the Thirty Meter Telescope does not change the long-standing support our Observatories have earned, but it will undoubtedly influence its future. For the benefit of the people who work on the mountain, for those who practice their culture and religion on the mountain, we look to a future beyond coexistence because that still implies barriers. We look to a future in which knowledge and worldviews hybridize to create a reality more beautiful and resilient than its progenitors.

Men and women in motion as they practice non-violent hula resistance at Mauna Kea. Photo by Big Island Video News

"This is beginning already, through A Hua He Inoa, the interstellar asteroid ‘Oumuamua, black hole Pōwehi, and the unusual asteroids recently officially named Kamo‘oalewa and Ka‘epaoka‘awela by Hawaiian students. We look to a future for Maunakea where studies of the universe are buoyed by the wisdom of Hawaiian kūpuna and grounded in the richness of Hawaiian culture. We are nurturing this future now as devoted members of the Hawaiʻi Island and international astronomy communities. We ask for the informed understanding and support of our international astronomy community to uphold this vision, which we believe will be an important part of everyone's future."

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REP. TULSI GABBARD JOINED PROTESTERS IN PUERTO RICO ON FRIDAY. They are calling for Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rossello to resign. Gabbard said the "hundreds of thousands of protesters" have only received "dismissive platitudes" from Roselló, who is "ignoring their cries for an end to corruption."

She said there is "rampant corruption" within Puerto Rico's government that "pretends to serve the interests of its people but instead exploits them, over and over again, for profits and power. It is this blatant corruption that undermines people's faith in our democracy, our country, and our values."

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard in Puerto Rico.
Photo from CNN

Gabbard said Puerto Rico is "an example of how decades of neglect by those in power, who put their own selfish interests ahead of the well-being of the people, and who put profits and politics ahead of the needs of its citizens, erodes faith in our democracy and causes widespread suffering. This isn't something people only experience in Puerto Rico. Across the country, we share their sense of injustice. We know what it feels like for our voices to go unheard – in San Juan, on Wall Street and in WashingtonD.C.

"That's why I'm here: to support the people taking action to end a multibillion-dollar corruption network involving kickbacks for lobbyists and state officials, preferential government contracts, and use of public resources to do partisan work.

"I'm here to stand with my fellow Americans in Puerto Rico calling for the resignation of a corrupt Governor who has shown he is for himself, rather than for the people. I call on every Democratic candidate running for President to come here and stand with our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico against corruption.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

SUNDAY, JULY 21

Ka‘ū Chamber of Commerce Mtg., Sunday, July 21, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, JULY 23

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24

THURSDAY, JULY 25

FRIDAY, JULY 26

Coffee Talk at Kahuku, Friday, July 26, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Free. nps.gov/havo

SATURDAY, JULY 27

Volcano's ‘Ōhi‘a Lehua Half Marathon, 7 a.m., 5K, 7:15 a.m., and Keiki Dash, 10 a.m.. Races begin and end at Volcano School of Arts & Sciences Campus on Haunani Road. Half Marathon, along road - $75/person until July 25; $85 July 26-27. 5K, along road - $40/person until July 25; $45/person July 26-27. Keiki Dash, grassy field, $10/child - ages 6 and under run 300 meters; ages 7-10 years old run 600 meters. No T-shirts given for Keiki Dash. Register at webscorer.com/register?raceid=175619. ohialehuahalf.com

Experience Volcano Festival, Saturday, July 27, and Sunday, July 28, multiple locations in Volcano. Features art, food, music, and performances. More details at experiencevolcano.com

Bingo, Saturday, July 27, 9-11a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Prize donations needed. stjudeshawaii.org

Arts & Tea Culture Workshop Series #3, Saturday, July 27, 1-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. Requires minimum of 6 participants to be held. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

ONGOING

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Kekuhe Kanahele at Puʻu Huluhulu where opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope gather. See
stories below. Photo by Kaweni Māsaniai-Ibarra

DIFFERING POINTS OF VIEW IN THE HAWAIʻI COMMUNITY WILL NOT DETER BUILDING THE THIRTY METER TELESCOPE ON MAUNA KEA, according to TMT spokesperson Scott Ishikawa, who spoke with Hawaiʻi News Now on Sunday.

Said Ishikawa, "Mauna Kea continues to be the preferred site for TMT. We have a lot of supporters in Hawaiʻi asking us not to leave, and at the same time, we know that's not going to sit well with some. There's been a lot of mixed emotions on this. I guess the main point is we're happy and relieved that everyone remains safe. That's always been our top priority."

Scott Ishikawa, spokesperson for TMT.
Image from Hawaiʻi News Now

TMT Executive Director Ed Stone released a statement on Friday: "TMT has been very patient. We worked very long and very hard to comply with all laws and regulations. We've also worked long and hard with the community and to develop understanding and respect for the culture. We are and have been prepared to access the site, but our legal rights to access have been blocked. We don't have the power to clear the blockade. We need to depend on law enforcement to do that. It's a very difficult and urgent situation for us."

HNN asked Ishikawa how long TMT is willing to wait. He told HNN, "This has been a really unprecedented situation, and I honestly don’t know at this point." The alternate location for the $1.4 billion telescope is the Canary Islands in Spain.

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NEW LAWSUITS OPPOSING THE THIRTY METER TELESCOPE focus on rights of kiaʻi, Protectors of Mauna Kea, and on the deployment of law enforcement from other counties to Mauna Kea Access Road. Big Island Video News reported that on Thursday, July 18, Native Hawaiian Legal Corp. filed suit on behalf of Paul Neves – a member of the Royal Order of Kamehameha, kumu hula, and a petitioner in the TMT contested case hearings – against Governor David Ige. The lawsuit seeks a "temporary suspension and stay of the enforcement, operation, and execution" of Ige's Emergency Proclamation, on the grounds that these measures are reserved for "exceptional situations involving imminent public danger and threat to Hawai‘i's population and its critical infrastructure."

Native Hawaiian Legal Corp. issued a statement saying that the proclamation "made clear" that Ige's "intent was to enable construction of the TMT. The TMT Proclamation's dubious effect has been to prevent Kiaʻi from exercising constitutionally protected rights of free speech, free assembly, free association, and free exercise of religion on the mountain; block Kānaka (Native Hawaiians) from accessing the mountain for spiritual purposes; suspend laws enacted to maintain public lands; and criminalize legally protected traditional and customary practices."

Native Hawaiian Legal Corp. promised to "vigorously protect Kumu Neves' constitutional rights. There is no emergency or imminent danger at Mauna Kea requiring suspension of state laws or violation of rights. The Kiaʻi at Mauna Kea are non-violent. Their occupation of the mountain, while demanding pono (righteous) stewardship of the ‘āina (land), does not pose a danger to public health or safety. Their traditional spiritual practices and exercise of constitutionally protected rights are not crimes. Their kuleana (responsibility) to honor, worship, and protect Mauna Kea is not criminal. By invoking emergency powers, Governor Ige abused the authority entrusted to him as our State's highest executive officer to violate the rights of Kānaka for the benefit of the TMT."

The three-judge panel Circuit Court of the First Circuit in Honoluluwill hear the case this Monday, July 22nd at 1 p.m.
On Friday, E. Kalani Flores filed for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction "pertaining to the unauthorized use of police officers from the City & County of Honolulu and the County of Maui to facilitate the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea," reported Big Island Video News.

At least two suits ask that the governor's proclamation of emergency that could bring more law enforcement
to Mauna Kea by rescinded. Photo by Kaweni Māsaniai-Ibarra

The suit contends that county police officers are prohibited from "exercising police powers beyond their territorial jurisdiction unless such is related to an investigation which originated and commenced within their home county. The City & County of Honolulu Police and Maui County Police officers assisting the Hawaii County Police as described herein have no lawful authority as police officers on Hawaiʻi Island."

Flores told Big Island Video News that deployment of those officers is "an unwarranted and unnecessary use of resources and personnel for a non-violent and peaceful gathering of people exercising their rights to free speech and assembly." He also said that the officer's families are under "significant burden," with the off-island deployments.

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TMT PROTESTS GREW OVER THE WEEKEND, with some 2,000 gathered at Mauna Kea Access Road. In Honolulu, a protest parade marched through Waikiki. Several marches took place on the mainland. On Monday, some tourist businesses, including several luʻau shows, plan to shut down for the day to show off Hawaiʻi without Hawaiians.

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KAʻŪ RESIDENT KAWENI MASĀNIAI-IBARRA, an anthropologist, observed and photographed the gathering place of Puʻu Huluhulu at Mauna Kea last week and sent back this report:

Kapu Aloha members are trained to keep the peace at Puʻu Huluhulu.
Photo by Kaweni Māsaniai-Ibarra

Visitors from across the globe gathered at Maunakea this week. Supporters from neighboring islands and distant lands joined the Protectors at Maunakea access road and Puʻuhuluhulu in their movement to halt construction of the 18 story Thirty Meter Telescope. Flags from all over the world flew proudly in support on the mountain as thousands stood in solidarity with Kānaka Maoli interests.
Cultural protocol and speeches were offered by practitioners and orators. Ceremonial welcomings proceeded for hoahānau (cousins) and hoapili (friends) of Sāmoa, Aotearoa, and Japan. Renowned hula practitioners such as Kekuhi Kanakaole and Taupouri Tangarō offered hula and oli with their hālau to welcome the visitors, and in return, songs and cultural performances were reciprocated by visiting groups. Kānaka Maoli diaspora populations also flew in from across the ocean to stand for Maunakea.

In the midst of worldwide attention, support for the Protectors have been voiced by countless groups of people. In addition to physical presence, videos and pictures have been posted online by groups in places like the Marshall Islands, First Nation territories, and Germany. Local visitors such as Andria Tupola and members of the Hawaiʻi Fire Department also made an appearance in solidarity with the Protectors.

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KAʻŪ VOICES took to the street Thursday to demonstrate "against our Country's cruel and inhumane border detention policies and profiteering," according to member Anita Broennimann. Kaʻū Voices spent "a busy hour," with "countless shakas, smiles, and honks, a few grumpy faces, and one brave woman who stopped to ask us why we were there."

Broennimann said a woman named Sterling gave the group a "constructive confrontation." She said Kaʻū Voices members "kept their cool and provided her with some alternative facts. In the end, I asked her to take our photo and she graciously obliged."

Border detention policies were the target of Kaʻū Voices.
Photo from Kaʻū Voices

Broennimann also thanked Susan, the creative artist of Free the Children cage.

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COMMENTS ABOUT THE HŪ HONUA ENERGY PLANT'S REQUEST TO DRILL DEEPER injection wells are requested through Aug. 15. The state Department of Health is taking comments on whether it should grant a modification of the original approval, issued in 2018. Should DOH grant the modified approval, operation of the wells would be authorized only when DOH also issues a permit to operate.

Over the last year, farmed eucalyptus trees near Pāhala have been harvested, in anticipation of the Hū Honua plant opening north of Hilo and burning electricity to sell to Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co.
The comment deadline was extended from July 21 after Hū Honua provided clarification of the proposed refined groundwater model and the monitoring plan to address comments received during the first three weeks of the comment period. This revision replaces the May 16, 2019, version on pages 30-35 of the application and may be found at 19-088.r7-WYamamoto-Request-to-Deepen-Hu-Honua-Bioenergy-19-29.pdf. DOH will also consider whether to hold an additional public meeting.

Direct any questions or comments to sdwb@doh.hawaii.gov or Ms. Joanna L. Seto, P.E., Safe Drinking Water Branch UIC Program, Uluakupu Bldg. 4, 2385 Waimano Home Road, Suite 110, Pearl City, Hawai‘i 96782-1400.

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Sen. Brian Schatz chairs the Committee on Climate
Crisis and reports cities around the country
taking significant action.

THE FIRST U.S. SENATE HEARING OF THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON THE CLIMATE CRISIS, chaired by Sen. Brian Schatz, happened last Wednesday. In an email to supporters, he said, "Mayors from cities who are taking significant action to combat the impacts of climate change testified about their efforts and how the federal government can better support them. These local communities are implementing innovative solutions that also strengthen the economy and create jobs. These are the kinds of productive conversations we should be having on climate change in the U.S. Senate, and I look forward to continuing the Committee's work. As always, please contact my office in D.C. or Hawai‘i if there is anything we can do. We are here to help."

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HEAT AND GAS LINGERING AT KĪLAUEA'S LOWER EAST RIFT ZONE is discussed in this week's Volcano Watch, written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates:

One year ago, activity on Kīlauea Volcano was remarkably different than it is today. Lava was flowing toward the sea, robust ocean entry plumes were fumigating coastal areas, and island air quality was impacted by huge amounts of volcanic gases and particles. Homes and farms were lost, along with agricultural land and beloved landmarks. Animal rescue efforts were ongoing, with pets and livestock evacuated by land and air. At Kīlauea's summit, daily explosions and collapse events rocked nearby residents, and a large portion of Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park was closed to the public.

Now, for the first time in over three decades, Kīlauea is not erupting. At the summit of the volcano, earthquake activity is low, and most of the National Park is open for business. No lava is flowing anywhere on Kīlauea, and volcanic air pollution on the island is the lowest it's been since the early 1980s.

However, there are lingering issues in some areas near the 2018 eruptive fissures. Although lava is no longer erupting, residual heat and small amounts of gas continue to escape from ground cracks and vents as subsurface molten rock, perhaps only several hundred feet underground, continues to cool.

Although Kīlauea Volcano's 2018 lower East Rift Zone eruption is over, residual heat, steam, and small amounts of
other gases continue to escape from ground cracks and vents in the lower Puna area near Highway 130 as
molten rock underground cools. USGS photo by C. Parcheta

As small new cracks open in response to magma cooling, groundwater infiltrates areas of remaining heat, releasing steam, water vapor, and small amounts of other gases. Currently, areas adjacent to and uprift, west, of Highway 130 are particularly impacted by this residual heat and steam. These areas of elevated temperature may migrate, as cooling and groundwater movement continue.

In steaming areas near and uprift of the now inactive fissures, slightly elevated levels of hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide gases have been detected. While these gases may be released from cooling magma, they are also generated by decaying organic matter, or, in the case of CO2, from burning or smoldering vegetation.

Thus, some portion of the H2S and CO2 is likely generated from the increased temperatures affecting plants in the area. Vegetation heated in the absence of oxygen, a process known as pyrolysis, can form organic compounds, which may be responsible for the 'chemical' odor frequently detected in these steamy areas.

Importantly, current H2S concentrations are very low – at or below the minimum detection level of volcanic gas monitoring instruments, which is 0.5 parts per million. People can usually smell the rotten egg odor of H2S at much lower concentrations—ranging from 0.0005 to 0.3 ppm. Hydrogen sulfide is present in the LERZ in tiny amounts, but that little bit can be quite noticeable.
Based on the odor threshold, the state of Hawaiʻi has set a "nuisance level" for H2S at 0.025 ppm. However, negative symptoms of H2S exposure do not occur until concentrations are well above this level.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), prolonged exposure to 2‒5 ppm H2S may cause headaches, eye irritation, nausea or breathing problems in some asthmatics. This is many times the concentrations currently measured near the LERZ thermal features.

Carbon dioxide concentrations in some LERZ steaming areas are elevated above the background atmospheric concentration of 412 ppm, 2018 global average. While the air in a crowded meeting room can frequently exceed 1,000 ppm CO2, maximum concentrations measured in the LERZ are well below this level. OSHA has established an exposure limit for CO2 of 5,000 ppm averaged over an 8-hour work day.

Based on the history of previous eruptions, elevated temperatures and steam are likely to persist in the area for many years. The 1955 LERZ eruption produced thermal features that have been active for over 60 years, some of which are used as natural saunas. Even in the early 1990s, a temperature of 51 degrees Celsius, 131 degrees Fahrenheit, was measured in a 1955 vent, but no volcanic sulfur gases, such as H2S, were detected. See pubs.er.usgs.gov/publication/ofr94569.

The 1955 and 2018 LERZ eruptions share some similarities, but exactly where and how long heating and steaming will continue for any area is impossible to determine. Eventually, however, lingering surface activity related to the 2018 intrusion will begin its long, slow decline.

See more info on volcanic gases at VOG Dashboard, vog.ivhhn.org. See more on specific health questions at Hazard Evaluation and Emergency Response Office of the Hawai‘i Department of Health, eha-web.doh.hawaii.gov/eha-cma/Org/HEER.

Visit volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvofor past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake info, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

TUESDAY, JULY 23

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24

THURSDAY, JULY 25

Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, Thursday, July 25, 4-6p.m., Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Free community dinner for all. Additional packaged goods to take home for those in need. Donations and volunteers encouraged. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

FRIDAY, JULY 26

Coffee Talk at Kahuku, Friday, July 26, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Free. nps.gov/havo

SATURDAY, JULY 27

Experience Volcano Festival, Saturday, July 27, and Sunday, July 28, multiple locations in Volcano. Features art, food, music, and performances. More details at experiencevolcano.com

Bingo, Saturday, July 27, 9-11a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Prize donations needed. stjudeshawaii.org

Arts & Tea Culture Workshop Series #3, Saturday, July 27, 1-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. Requires minimum of 6 participants to be held. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Grand Slam performance, Saturday, July 27, 7-10p.m., Kīlauea Military Theater. Cover charge taken at door. Open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SUNDAY, JULY 28
A Meeting to Establish Child Care for Kaʻū Coffee Farm Workers happens Sunday, July 28 at 3 p.m. at the Kaʻū District Gym Activity Room. Farmers and other supporters of the effort met July 13.

With the increasing employment of members of Kaʻū's Marshallese community to pick Kaʻū Coffee, organizers in the coffee producing community, led by Laura Diaz, have established a nonprofit organization called Keiki OʻPalehua ʻOhana Program. The group has completed renovations of a room in the Pāhala Hongwanji Schoolhouse, with educational supplies for up to 15 keiki.
Diaz said the program is looking for an electrician to hang two ceiling fans at the childcare center, for some kind of food service for the keiki, and other donations. A grand opening is planned for Aug. 10.
Call Diaz at 928-8188 or 408-306-5596.

ONGOING

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Kiaʻi, Protectors, of Maunakea gathered above the encampment of those who protest the construction
of the Thirty Meter Telescope. Photo from Puʻu Honua o Puʻu Huluhulu Maunakea Facebook

KAʻŪ'S COUNTY COUNCIL MEMBER MAILE DAVID HAS PROPOSED A MORATORIUM ON TMT CONSTRUCTION. The resolution submitted to the County Council urges Gov. David Ige and Mayor Harry Kim to call for a 60-day "moratorium on the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna A Wakea." The proposal follows and supports a similar request from state Sen. Kaialiʻi Kahele.

The council will vote on taking up the issue during Wednesday's meeting in Kona. The resolution, if approved, would not be a law. It would would present the council's position.

The resolution states there are "hundreds of native Hawaiians and supporters peacefully gathered at Puʻuhululu expressing reverence, respect, and support for preserving and protecting the sacred Mauna A Wakea, and have continuously demonstrated non-violence and respect in upholding Kapu Aloha."

The resolution points to the governor's Proclamation of Emergency, saying it claimed "an imminent danger or threat of an emergency… for the purpose of implementing emergency management functions as allowed by law in order to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the people."

Page header of Puʻu Honua o Puʻu Huluhulu Maunakea Facebook group, showing Kiaʻi, Protectors, of Maunakea, from
keiki to kūpuna. They are holding their hands in the shape of the mountain they call sacred.
Photo from Puʻu Honua o Puʻu Huluhulu Maunakea Facebook

According to the councilwoman's resolution, "there appears controversy within the community whether the Proclamation… was necessary and justified as a means to address native Hawaiians' peaceful demonstration in asserting their separate and distinct rights to preserve and protect traditional, cultural, religious and subsistence practices as guaranteed by law and the Hawaiʻi State Constitution; and… in the interest of peace and kapu Aloha, the request for a 60-day construction moratorium of the Thirty Meter Telescope is supported and justified."

Other officials addressed in the resolution are Chairperson of the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Suzanne Case; Chief of Police, Paul Ferreira; Fire Chief Darren Rosario; Director of Finance, Deanna Sako; Prosecuting Attorney, Mitch Roth; and the Office of the Corporation Counsel.

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Lt. Gov. Josh Green with Noenoe Wong Wilson at Puʻu Huluhulu his morning. Photo from Big Island Video News

LT. GOV. JOSH GREEN VISITED PROTECTORS OF MAUNAKEA, joining their sunrise service this morning at Puʻu Honua o Puʻu Huluhulu. He promised to ask Gov. David Ige to withdraw all armed law enforcement officers from the site. Green, who started his career as a physician at Kaʻū Hospital and served as a state Senator for West Kaʻū and Kona, arrived to Maunakea in his scrubs, after a 48 hour stint at the Kohala Hospital Emergency Room. He said that at Kohala, he treated a number of people who traveled to Maunakea to prevent construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope. He said some of appeared to be suffering from "spiritual exhaustion."
Green said he was not afraid to be among the protesters who are blocking the Maunakea Access Road, and noted that his wife and children have Hawaiian blood and that family members have joined the cause. He said he will ask the governor to rescind the emergency proclamation that allows the state to call in the National Guard. He said that place is peaceful and that he wants all weapons taken away from the area. Concerning 80 members of the National Guard who were sent to the protest area, Green said he does not believe the National Guard should be used "in circumstances like this… this is a peaceful gathering of Hawaiian people… I'm sure it won't be necessary."

Law enforcement stand feet from peaceful Kiaʻi civilian protesters at Maunakea Access Road.
Photo from Puʻu Honua o Puʻu Huluhulu Maunakea Facebook

Green told Hawaiʻi News Now that it is "extremely important" to find harmony in this situation. He apologized on behalf of government "if all of us haven't found a way to reach harmony in our culture… I think that we're seeing something extraordinary here… occurring on the mountain… I think everyone is putting out an incredible amount of their mana, and I wanted to see it first hand and to show respect." He said he hoped this event would culminate in "a peaceful place for our culture," that it would be something to look back on with pride and share "with our ʻohana."

When asked whether TMT should be built, Green said, "I don't think any project in the history of Hawaiʻi should be allowed to threaten the fabric of our ʻohana." He said he'd heard the Protectors are peaceful and wanted to witness it. He said he wants to ensure that "people feel respected at the highest levels of government… I think that this is a much larger dialogue about more than a telescope. I think this is about our people."

Green said the Maunakea protest is "really a reflection of generations of hurt, and generations of people feeling disrespected… This is the time when our whole society has to come together – and it will, one way or another."

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THE COST OF HAWAIʻI COUNTY PROVIDING LAW ENFORCEMENT IN THE MAUNAKEA STANDOFF is a query of Puna County Council member Matt Kanealiʻi-Kleinfelder. He asked the county Department of Finance for an accounting during the current standoff and during another period of resistance to the Twenty Meter Telescope in 2015.
The councilman issued a statement: "The land lays almost entirely in State jurisdiction. Mauna Kea Access Road is a County paved and maintained road on DHHL property. Mauna Keais not the County's jurisdiction, yet the County of Hawaiʻi has been told to bear the costs of arrests, prosecution, and manpower. The expenses involved in this State sponsored private venture are building quickly. A recent Honolulu Star Advertiser article stated that expenses would not be reimbursed by TMT. I'm extremely concerned the taxpayers of Hawaiʻi are paying for a project being run by a foreign company both at a County and State level."

One of over 30 kūpuna arrested on Tuesday, July 16. All the arrested were cited and released.
Photo from Puʻu Honua o Puʻu Huluhulu Maunakea Facebook

He said "a greater concern" is the declared State of Emergency. When he visited Puʻu Honua o Puʻu Huluhulu Maunakea July 13, 14, 15, and 17, he said, "The kiaʻi (Protectors) maintained Kapu Aloha in every situation as promised. The unannounced closures of our highway were both premeditated, unnecessary, and caused undue stress on county residents and visitors. The behavior of the kiaʻi during the arrests was no different Monday than Wednesday. There was no emergency that warranted shutting down the Daniel K. Inouye Highway to date. There was no reason to invoke a State of Emergency to date.
"With our own administration quiet, I'm speaking up. This is our County. Too many decisions are being made by off Island politicians and business interests that directly affect our social fabric! I have asked for fiscal tracking of all expenses incurred by our county and an expense report August 6, 2019. I urge the other counties to inquire as well what costs they've accumulated so far."

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Keiki observe VAC student Annie Stiefel give a demonstration

on the wheel at last year's fundraiser. Photo from VAC

A TASTE OF TEA AND POTTERY third annual fundraiser happens Sunday, Aug. 25 from noon to 4 p.m. at Volcano Art Center's Niʻaulani Campus, 19-4074 Old Volcano Rd. in Volcano Village. The event helps fund VAC's "Fire Arts Programs," which include ongoing ceramics and glass classes and workshops. Admission is $30 for VAC Members or $35 for non-Members and includes a choice of one hand made tea cup or bowl, a tasting of several freshly brewed Hawaiʻi grown teas, and the option to participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

During the event, VAC ceramics students, along with pottery instructor Erik Wold, will be inviting attendees to get their hands in clay in the ceramics studio. All are welcome to join in or simply observe the action and get a taste of what VAC's ceramics educational program has to offer. Enjoy door prizes and a silent auction as well as cookies, packaged tea, and tea cups, which can be purchased additionally. Attendees can vote for their favorite Hawaiʻi grown tea through the Taster's Choice Award. "A Taste of Tea & Pottery fundraiser is sure to be an entertaining day of tea and ceramics," says a statement from VAC.

High-fired tea cup with Kaʻū volcanic ash glaze by
Erik Wold. Photo from VAC

Eva Lee, from Hawaiʻi Tea Society and co-founder of Tea Hawaiʻi & Company of Volcano, will discuss tea cultivation in Hawaiʻi for small family farms and the global market. Lee will also present a summary on the pre event fund raising Arts & Tea Culture Workshops, which were made possible by the support of Volcano ceramic artist guest instructor and tea grower Chiu Leong, and Chado practitioner artist Philippe Nault, infusing tea culture with Hawaiʻi agriculture.

A Taste of Tea & Pottery helps support VAC's ongoing ceramics program, which offers educational opportunities in clay in an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared inspiration where students learn from one another at the ceramics studio in the unique rainforest setting of Volcano, Hawaiʻi. Attendees of the fundraiser will have the opportunity to try a variety of clay forming methods, including handbuilding and wheelthrowing.

VAC instructor Erik Wold working on the stem of a goblet. Photo from VAC

For those whose interest is sparked, there is always the opportunity to register in one of our regular session series of classes offered throughout the year. "While sustained practice is crucial in developing the skills needed to explore the medium of ceramics in depth, this event is intended to be a fun introduction for those curious to try their hand at working with clay," states teaching artist Erik Wold.

Wold studied Art, specializing in Ceramics, at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, graduating in 1993. Erik's primary focus is creating functional high-fired pottery. Erik has been instructing all skill levels, from those entirely new to working with clay, to advanced students in both wheelthrowing and handbuilding techniques, since VAC began its ongoing ceramics programs over three years ago. Key areas of interest have been in the pottery traditions of Japan and, most recently, East African Handbuilding methods which Wold will also demonstrate at the event.

Activity in VAC's ceramics lab during weekly open studio. Photo from VAC

A Taste of Tea & Pottery also supports VAC's ongoing glass programs. Programs include Stained Glass Basics I and II with Claudia McCall and Lois Stokes, and Flameworking with Nash Adams-Pruitt. Glass class offerings will be expanding as VAC raises the necessary funds to purchase specialized equipment and expand classroom space. Support these programs by purchasing a ticket or making a donation by calling 808-967-8222 or visiting volcanoartcenter.org.

VAC is a non-profit educational organization created in 1974 to promote, develop, and perpetuate the artistic and cultural heritage of Hawai‘i's people and environment through activities in the visual, literary, and performing arts.

A Taste of Tea & Pottery event is co-sponsored by the State of Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture.

Visit volcanoartcenter.org.

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HAWAIʻI VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK continues to share Hawaiian culture and tradition ongoing ‘Ike Hana No‘eau demonstrations, After Dark in the Park talks, volunteer programs, and opportunities to explore its Kahuku Unit. Unless otherwise noted, events are free. Here are the July events:

Paniolo in water. Photo from Paniolo Preservation Society

Paniolo: Hawaiian Cowboys is the After Dark in the Park program on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 7 p.m. at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Join Dr. Billy Bergin, local author and expert on Hawaiian ranching and all things paniolo. Dr. Bergin will talk about the introduction of cattle to Hawai‘i in 1793, their protected status, and King Kamehameha III’s decision to bring in a dozen or so vaqueros (Mexican cowboys) in 1833. The vaqueros transformed local cattle tenders into the legendary horsemen of Hawai‘i – including the iconic Jack Purdy and John Palmer Parker, whose cattle operations still exist today.
Lā‘āu Lāpa‘au Demonstration, part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes'‘Ike Hana No‘eau, Experience the Skillful Work, workshops, happens Wednesday, Aug. 14 from 10 a.m. to noon at Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. Join Hawaiian herbal medicine practitioner Ka‘ohu Monfort and learn how local plants are used to nourish and heal. See and touch a variety of traditional medicinal plants including kukui, noni, ‘ōlena, kī and others.

Concert with Artist-in-Residence Andy Jarema is the After Dark in the Park program on Tuesday, Aug. 20, 7 p.m. at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Detroit-based musician and composer Andy Jarema has been selected as August’s artist in residence at Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park. This young and innovative composer uses a mix of sound-collage techniques, and his trumpet, as well as traditional scoring to make musical pieces inspired by direct interaction with locales, also known as site-specific work.

Pala‘ie game workshop. NPS photo

National Park Service Anniversary happens Sunday, Aug. 25 at all fee-charging national parks in America. Celebrate the 103rd anniversary of America's Best Idea with free entrance to all fee-charging national parks, including Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park in Kona, and Haleakalā National Park on Maui.

Palai‘e Demonstration, part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes'‘Ike Hana No‘eau, Experience the Skillful Work, workshops, happens Wednesday, Aug. 28 from 10 a.m. to noon at Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. Create a traditional Hawaiian game using natural materials. Pala‘ie, a ball-and-loop game rarely encountered in modern Hawai‘i, is sometimes played by keiki while chanting ancient mele, song. Join rangers and staff from Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association for this fun activity.

Stewardship of Kīpukapuaulu. Help remove troublesome plants at Kīpukapuaulu, home to diverse native forest and understory plants. Meet every Thursday at 9:30 a.m. in August: 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; at Kīpukapuaulu parking lot, Mauna Loa Road, off Highway 11 in the Park. Bring clippers or pruners, sturdy gloves, a hat, and water. Wear closed-toe shoes and clothing that can get permanently stained from morning glory sap. Be prepared for cool and wet, or hot and sunny, weather. New volunteer? Contact Marilyn Nicholson for more info, nickem@hawaii.rr.com.

Stewardship at the Summit. Volunteer to help remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, a World Heritage Site. Meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at 8:45 a.m. at Kīlauea Visitor Center on Aug. Friday, Aug. 2 and 16; Saturday Aug. 10 and 24; and Wednesday, Aug. 28. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring a hat, raingear, day pack, snacks, and water. Gloves and tools are provided. Under 18? Parental or guardian accompaniment or written consent is required. Visit the park website for additional planning details: nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm.

Hawaiian practitioner Kaohu Monfort. NPS photo

A Walk into the Past with Dr. Thomas A. Jaggar. Meet at Kīlauea Visitor Center Tuesdays in August: 6, 13, 20, and 27, at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m. Each performance is about an hour. Walk back to 1912, and meet the founder of the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Dr. Thomas A. Jaggar, at the edge of Kīlauea Volcano. Dressed in period costume, Ka‘ū actor-director Dick Hershberger brings the renowned geologist to life. Dr. Jaggar leads a tour of his tiny lab located below Volcano House, showing original seismograph equipment and other early instruments. Learn what motivated Dr. Jaggar to dedicate his life to the study of Hawaiian volcanoes and how his work helps save lives today. Space is limited; pick up free ticket at Kīlauea Visitor Center's front desk the day of the program. Program includes climbing stairs and entering a confined space. Supported by the Kīlauea Drama Entertainment Network.

Explore Kahuku. Kahuku Unit is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is free. Take a self-guided hike, or join rangers on Sundays in April for a two-hour guided trek at 9:30 a.m.; the trail will vary depending on visitor interest. Enter the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park on the mauka (inland) side of Highway 11 near mile marker 70.5. Kahuku is located in Ka‘ū, and is about a 50-minute drive south of the park's main entrance. Sturdy footwear, water, raingear, sun protection, and a snack are recommended for all hikes.

See updates on the Park's online calendar of events, and look for program flyers posted after 9:30 a.m. on the bulletin board at Kīlauea Visitor Center.
Park programs are free, but entrance fees apply. Some programs are co-sponsored by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

2019 Kaʻū High School Athletics Schedule through August
See khpes.org/athletics-home for details and updates; Bowling TBA.

Football, Division II:
Sat., Aug. 24, 1 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kamehameha

Girls Volleyball, Kaʻū District Gym:
Mon., July 29, 3 to 5 p.m., first day practice
Tue., Aug. 20, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Hilo
Fri., Aug. 23, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts St. Joseph
Wed., Aug. 28, 6 p.m., Kaʻū hosts Kohala

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

TUESDAY, JULY 23

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24

THURSDAY, JULY 25

FRIDAY, JULY 26

Coffee Talk at Kahuku, Friday, July 26, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Free. nps.gov/havo

SATURDAY, JULY 27

Experience Volcano Festival, Saturday, July 27, and Sunday, July 28, multiple locations in Volcano. Features art, food, music, and performances. More details at experiencevolcano.com.

Bingo, Saturday, July 27, 9-11a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Prize donations needed. stjudeshawaii.org

Arts & Tea Culture Workshop Series #3, Saturday, July 27, 1-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. Requires minimum of 6 participants to be held. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

A Meeting to Establish Child Care for Kaʻū Coffee Farm Workers happens Sunday, July 28 at 3 p.m. at the Kaʻū District Gym Activity Room. Farmers and other supporters of the effort met July 13.
With the increasing employment of members of Kaʻū's Marshallese community to pick Kaʻū Coffee, organizers in the coffee producing community, led by Laura Diaz, have established a nonprofit organization called Keiki OʻPalehua ʻOhana Program. The group has completed renovations of a room in the Pāhala Hongwanji Schoolhouse, with educational supplies for up to 15 keiki.
Diaz said the program is looking for an electrician to hang two ceiling fans at the childcare center, for some kind of food service for the keiki, and other donations. A grand opening is planned for Aug. 10.
Call Diaz at 928-8188 or 408-306-5596.

ONGOING

ʻŌhiʻa Lehua Half Marathon, 5K, and Keiki Dash Registration open through Saturday, July 27, the day of the races. It replaces the Volcano Rain Forest Runs. Register before Thursday, July 25 for lower entry fees. See ohialehuahalf.com.

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Gov. David Ige visits with kupuna at the base of Maunakea today. Photo from Big Island Video News

A PEACEFUL PATH FORWARD is Gov. David Ige's request, made at Maunakea today during his surprise visit to talk with the Protectors of Maunakea who aim to stop construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope. Protectors welcomed and hugged the governor, danced hula and chanted. Said Ige, "We are committed to finding a way forward in a peaceful manner. I'm certainly looking forward to the dialogue and much conversation that will be required to move forward."
Mayor Harry Kim also attended the meeting with Protectors. The governor asked the Hawai`i Island mayor to work with him to end the standoff, which has prevented commencement of construction of the telescope for nine days. He said that Kim is "closest to the situation and the impacts are greatest on the island he leads."

Dancing greeted Gov. David Ige at Mauna Kea where he met with
Protectors today. Photo from Big Island Video News

Ige said he wants a resolution between the Kiaʻi, Protectors, of Maunakea and the Thirty Meter Telescope organization that is "peaceful and satisfactory to as many as possible in the community. I understand that the issues underlying what is taking place today are far deeper than TMT or Maunakea. They are about righting the wrongs done to the Hawaiian people going back more than a century. The governor said "many hard decisions will need to be jointly supported by the state and county and we will be working together to determine next steps that are in the best interests of all the people of Hawai`i."
Vision for Maunakea, which the mayor released March 1, notes the mayor's support for the telescope and also the mountain's designation as a sacred place. Kim said on facebook that he envisions Muanakea as "a symbol of the Native Hawaiian culture: past, present and future." He said he supports "protection and preservation of the historical and cultural specialness of this land, the most precious and beautiful of place and people… the Native Hawaiian heritage and the inseparability of nature and culture."
The governor referred to Kim's

Kim said, "Hawaiians understood how the world was connected from the mountain to the sea. They explored the ocean and learned about the heavens to guide them. They believe that this majestic mountain is the earth's connecting point to the rest of the universe. This is about the mountain being part of their soul."

Kim' said he sees bringing together a diverse group to "create a major cultural center" where "the painful wrongs done to the indigenous people of Hawaiʻi and the world" are "respectfully" depicted. He wants to "recognize and preserve" Maunakea's "cultural qualities" that make it a "premier place to expand knowledge of the universe.

Noenoe Wong-Wilson asked Gov. David Ige to address Protectors of Mauna Kea.
Photo form Big Island Video News

Kim recommends to "establish an umbrella management authority" with a "broad and integrated vision," over all matters affecting Maunakea, "from the base of the access road to the summit." It would help to ensure "representation for Hawaiian affairs, science, culture, education, and a strong deference to the voices of the host island."

Kim said he wants to establish an institute that "invites the sharing of knowledge across disciplines among all ages, educational levels, beliefs, and nationalities; make science accessible to nā keiki, the children, and nā kūpuna, the elders, by creating "exciting" science and cultural educational programs; bolster programs that "stimulate careers in science and humanities."

Kim also expressed his hope that Maunakea can "be a model of how the people of the world can live together in harmony, to create a place for hoʻoponopono where people can come together to learn" and "be a leader in national and international efforts, to integrate culture and nature in heritage protection and interpretation, a status that establishes Maunakea as a monument of global significance."

Read Kim's Vision and Initiatives for Maunakea.

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Kiaʻi, Protectors, of Maunakea, out front of Hilo Court House today. Photo from Big Island Video News

JUDGES RULED TODAY TO ALLOW ONE HAWAIIAN CULTURAL PRACTITIONER to travel up Maunakea for cultural and religious practices during Gov. David Ige's Emergency Proclamation, which the state uses to keep people from traveling there. The permitted person is Kumu Hula Paul Kevin Neves, represented by Native Hawaiian Legal Corp. Neves filed a suit to gain access and with his success, numerous other suits are expected from those who want to go up the mountain.

TMT was also the subject of a suit heard in Hilotoday, where plaintiffs sought a Temporary Restraining Order against those building the TMT Plaintiffs claimed the TMT organization has failed to post a sufficient security bond for the project, citing a 1977 rule. Hilo Circuit Judge Greg Nakamura ruled against the TRO, pointing out the TMT has permits to build.

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Learn the names of those arrested last Tuesday - including long-time activist Walter Ritte, fist raised - for protesting the building of the Thirty Meter Telescope atop Maunakea. Photo from Puʻuhonua O Puʻuhuluhulu Maunakea Facebook

THE NAMES OF THE 38 KŪPUNA ARRESTED LAST WEEK are released. The elders, who were arrested for blocking Mauankea Access Road last Tuesday, July 16, are: James Albertini, Sharol Awai, Tomas Belsky, Marie Alohalani Brown, Gene Burke, Daycia-Dee Chun, Richard L. Deleon, Alika Desha, William K. Freitas, Patricia Green, Desmond Haumea, Flora Hoʻokano, Keliʻi Ioane, Maxine Kahauelio, Ana Kahoʻopiʻi, Mahea Kalima, Kaliko Lehua Kanaele, Pualani Kanahele, Deborah Lee, Donna Leong, Daniel Li, Carmen Lindsey, Linda Leilani Lindsey-Kaʻapuni, Abel Lui, Liko-O-Kalani Martin, James Naniole, Luana Neff, Deena Oana-Hurwitz, Edleen Peleiholani, Renee Price, Haloley Reese, Loretta Ritte, Walter Ritte, Raynette Robinson, Damian Trask, Mililani Trask, John Turalde, and Noe Noe Wong-Wilson.

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West's eye shadow palette colors have some names some
find culturally insensitive. Photo from kkwbeauty.com

HAWAIIAN CULTURAL APPROPRIATION hit a new low this week, with reality TV personality Kim Kardashian West naming colors in a new eyeshadow palette "Pele's Curse" and "Kīlauea"– without the kahakō. Social media has taken up the cause of attempting to educate West, with some using #AoleTMT.

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THE TWO PERCENT LAND FUND STEWARDSHIP REGULATIONS are the subject of a proposed amendment to the CountyCharter. The amendment is proposed by Kaʻū's County Council member Maile David and Kona and Waikaloa's council member Karen Eoff. It would allow compensation for specific duties such as labor, educational workshops, and maintenance work be paid to an officer, board member, or employee, if those duties have been specifically identified and officially approved in the detailed business plan submitted as part of the stewardship proposal.

aaron.chung@hawaiicounty.gov, valerie.poindexter@hawaiicounty.gov, ashley.kierkiewicz@hawaiicounty.gov,

Waikapuna, one of stretches of Ka`u Coast being preserved and to be
stewarded with the Two Percent Land Fund.
Photo by Andrew Richard Hara. Hawai`i Legacy Land Fund

Debbie Hecht, who leads the Two Percent Fund community effort, encourages testimony to the County Council, in person at 9 a.m. Wednesday in Kona, remotely at the old Kaʻū Courthouse in Nāʻālehu, or by emailing the council members:
sue.leeloy@hawaiicounty.gov, karen.eoff@hawaiicounty.gov, matt.kanealii-kleinfelder@hawaiicounty.gov, maile.david@hawaiicounty.gov>, tim.richards@hawaiicounty.gov, rebecca.villegas@hawaiicounty.gov and Jon.Henricks@hawaiicounty.gov.

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THE VETERANS SMALL BUSINESS EXPORT PROMOTION ACT was reintroduced on Thursday by Sen. Mazie Hirono and Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), both members of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee. The bill would amend the Small Business Act to waive up-front guarantee fees for veterans and their spouses participating in the Small Business Administration's export promotion loan programs.
Said Hirono, "Veteran-owned businesses are vital to Hawaiʻi's economy. However, a number of our veterans, including those transitioning to civilian life, face barriers to accessing the capital needed to start and grow a business. Our legislation would provide long-term relief on SBA loans that support entrepreneurship and job creation. I look forward to continuing to work together to make opportunities like these available for our veterans."
SBA has previously waived up-front guarantee fees for veterans applying for its Export Express, Export Working Capital and International Trade loan programs, which provide access to capital for veterans and their spouses so that they can start and grow their businesses, and expand into new markets abroad. The Veterans Small Business Export Promotion Act would make this policy permanent to provide certainty for those veterans.
The Veterans Small Business Export Promotion Act is also supported by the National Small Business Association and the Small Business Exporters Association.
Read the full text of the legislation here.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

See public Kaʻū events, meetings, entertainment.

See Kaʻū exercise, meditation, daily, and weekly events.

Print edition of The Kaʻū Calendar is free to 5,500 mailboxes

throughout Kaʻū, from Miloliʻi through Volcano, and free on

stands throughout the district. Read online at kaucalendar.com

and facebook.com/kaucalendar.

Cross Country:

UPCOMING

WEDNESDAY, JULY 24

THURSDAY, JULY 25

FRIDAY, JULY 26

Coffee Talk at Kahuku, Friday, July 26, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Free. nps.gov/havo

SATURDAY, JULY 27

Experience Volcano Festival, Saturday, July 27, and Sunday, July 28, multiple locations in Volcano. Features art, food, music, and performances. More details at experiencevolcano.com.

Bingo, Saturday, July 27, 9-11a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Prize donations needed. stjudeshawaii.org

Arts & Tea Culture Workshop Series #3, Saturday, July 27, 1-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. Requires minimum of 6 participants to be held. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Grand Slam performance, Saturday, July 27, 7-10p.m., Kīlauea Military Theater. Cover charge taken at door. Open to all authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SUNDAY, JULY 28
Experience Volcano Festival continues Sunday, July 28, multiple locations in Volcano. Features art, food, music, and performances. More details at experiencevolcano.com.

A Meeting to Establish Child Care for Kaʻū Coffee Farm Workers happens Sunday, July 28 at 3 p.m. at the Kaʻū District Gym Activity Room. Farmers and other supporters of the effort met July 13.
With the increasing employment of members of Kaʻū's Marshallese community to pick Kaʻū Coffee, organizers in the coffee producing community, led by Laura Diaz, have established a nonprofit organization called Keiki OʻPalehua ʻOhana Program. The group has completed renovations of a room in the Pāhala Hongwanji Schoolhouse, with educational supplies for up to 15 keiki.

Diaz said the program is looking for an electrician to hang two ceiling fans at the childcare center, for some kind of food service for the keiki, and other donations. A grand opening is planned for Aug. 10.
Call Diaz at 928-8188 or 408-306-5596.

TUESDAY, JULY 30

Ka‘ū Food Pantry, Tuesday, July 30, 11:30a.m.-1p.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View. Volunteers welcome. Dave Breskin, 319-8333

ONGOING

Talk Action, Take Action: surveys available through Aug. 4, recovery.hawaiicounty.gov/connect/impact-status-survey-suite. The surveys focus on different areas of recovery after the 2018 Kīlauea eruption: households, businesses, and community.

To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.

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