The Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs, Hawaiʻi Island

Diver Jason Leonard photographs a mesophotic coral ecosystem at 80 meters (262 feet) deep in Larsen's Bay in
National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa where University of Hawaiʻi will participate in a deep reef story.
U.H Photo by R.L. Pyle, sanctuaries.noaa.gov

AN ANALYSIS OF THE 2020 RURAL HAWAIʻI CONGRESSIONAL RACE came today from former state senator Gary Hooser, who serves as vice chair of the Hawaiʻi Democratic Party, executive director for Pono Hawaiʻi Initiative, and volunteer board president of Hawaiʻi Alliance for Progressive Action.

Hooser's commentary follows Rep. Tulsi Gabbard's announcement that she will not run for re-election in order to concentrate on her bid for the presidency, leaving state Sen. Kai Kahele the remaining leading Democratic candidate. Hooser said that Gabbard's announcement, "caught Hawaiʻi's political world by surprise. Initially, conventional wisdom would say that Big Island State Senator Kai Kahele is the heir apparent. But those more skilled in the sometimes dark arts of political maneuvering would say, 'Perhaps, but then again perhaps not.'" Here is the rest of Hooser's statement:

To be clear, I like Senator Kahele. Though I do not know him well, his actions and his words during the past year indicate to me that, at the end of the day, he will choose people and the planet over corporate greed. How hard he will push back against the power and influence that maintain and perpetuate the status quo in Washington, D.C., I do not know. Whether he will fall into the trap of going along to get along also remains to be seen. Of course, these same two questions apply to every candidate, for every office – federal, state, and county.
But so far, I like what I see, and think he is a good candidate who if elected, would serve Hawaiʻi well. However, the political reality is that at the moment, there are no other candidates and thus no one to measure him against. Very soon, other candidates will emerge; of this, I am absolutely sure. The allure of a primary with no incumbent is simply too strong to resist.

State Sen. Kai Kahele

Yes, Senator Kahele has a head start and yes, his campaign has apparently raised over $500,000, which indeed is a respectable sum. However, there are at least a dozen others either now serving, or sitting on the bench, who have similar or even greater name recognition, credible resumes, and the ability to raise the funds necessary to run a competitive race. These 12, and undoubtedly even more, are at this very moment discussing with friends, family, and potential donors, whether to jump, or not.
Each potential candidate is asking the same questions. How strong is my name recognition compared to Senator Kahele? Is my base of friends and supporters within the Second Congressional District (CD2) – which is dominated by the neighbor islands – strong and diverse enough? How many of them might already be committed to Senator Kahele? Can I raise the money needed to win?
Very soon, someone who perhaps already has the money and the name recognition will jump in, and then in short order, others will follow. As more candidates enter the race, those with less fundraising capacity but perhaps strong name recognition and a dedicated base of supporters will likewise be emboldened to enter.
Prediction: Eventually there will be six to nine credible Democrats splitting up the votes and battling it out for this much-coveted seat in the U.S. Congress. Further fueling the number of candidates jumping into the fray will be State Senators midway through their four-year terms (as is Senator Kahele), with no requirement to resign their State Senate seat. Add to the potential mix of credible candidates several City Council members who are terming out of their existing positions, and could also be interested.
Because Hawaiʻi is essentially a one-party state, winning the primary on Aug. 8 is everything. In the age of Trump, there is no way that voters in this particular district will elect a Republican to Congress – remember the CD2 is Patsy Minks' district.

Former U.S. Rep.
Colleen Hanabusa

A crowded primary with no incumbent means it's winner take all, and garnering a majority of the vote is not needed to win. That's correct – the winner need not have a majority to win. A plurality of any amount is sufficient to win the primary and move to the general, where a symbolic, sacrificial,l and unelectable Republican will simply be holding space for their Party. In the 2006 CD2 race, the dynamics were similar. In that race, ten Democrats threw their hats in the ring. On primary election day, now-U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono was declared the winner after receiving only 20.7 percent of the vote. I repeat, Mazie Hirono won with only 20.7 percent of the vote. For me, the memory is, of course, vivid. Former Senate President (and eventually Congresswoman) Colleen Hanabusa came in second, with 20 percent. Yours truly, then Senator Gary Hooser, came in 5th at 9.7 percent, just ahead of then State Representative Brian Schatz (now U.S. Senator) at 7 percent.
In theory, the more candidates that enter the race, the smaller the slice of the vote pie potentially needed to win. Thus, candidates with a "strong base"– ideological, geographic, demographic or issue centered – but who might struggle to appeal to a broader majority, are especially drawn to enter the contest.
Hence the allure of a crowded primary with no incumbent. Everyone who enters the race will believe their base is sufficient to win the day. Excessive optimism – it's the nature of the beast carried within every candidate.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard

See more from Hooser at Pono Hawaii Initiative and Hawaii Alliance for Progressive Action.

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DECLASSIFY AND RELEASE 9/11 INFORMATION, urges Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. She submitted a resolution into the U.S. House of Representatives this week, calling on the federal government to declassify and release information regarding the September 11, 2001 attacks in order to ensure a full public understanding of what happened and who was involved.
Said Gabbard, "Though Al Qaeda attacked us on 9/11, over 18 years ago, the American people still do not have the truth about Saudi Arabia and who helped Al Qaeda carry out these attacks. The truth is being withheld from the families of those who were killed on 9/11, and from the American people. Full disclosure of these facts is not only necessary for these families, it is essential for our national security and to keep the American people safe. The Trump Administration must put the interests of the American people first, and release this information now."
A similar resolution, H.Res.663, was introduced in the 115th Congress by former Rep. Walter Jones (NC-03), when Gabbard and Jones worked on national security, cost of war, and counter-terrorism issues. Together, they led bipartisan legislation to end Presidential wars as well as prohibit the U.S. from arming terrorists through what they called counterproductive programs that arm and train terrorist groups — including those affiliated with Al Qaeda — using American taxpayer dollars,
says a statement from Gabbard's office.

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This stony coral, Galaxea fascicularis, was photographed at 46 meters (151 feet) off Tutuila, American Samoa.
Photo by Anthony Montgomery, under Creative Commons License, sanctuaries.noaa.gov

DEEP WATER TWILIGHT REEFS are the target of a study by Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology at University of Hawaiʻi and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service in American Samoa. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science has announced $2.5 million in funding. Cooperating are NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries and Office of Ocean Exploration and Research. Other partners are Bishop Museum, Old Dominion University, and Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.

The four-year research project will include mesophotic coral ecosystems in the waters off American Samoa, including National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa and National Park of American Samoa, Rose Atoll Marine National Monument, and community-based marine protected areas managed by the American Samoa Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources.

These soft corals, Dendronephthya spp., were photographed at 45 meters

(148 feet) in American Samoa. Photo by Anthony Montgomery,

under Creative Commons License, sanctuaries.noaa.gov

The first year of research will be allotted $599,673 for a competitive research program, Deep Coral Reef Ecosystem Studies (Deep-CRES) Program: American Samoa. It seeks to improve scientific understanding of mesophotic coral ecosystems for development of better protections.

Shallow coral reefs – colorful ecosystems teeming with life that support more species than any other marine environment – are relatively well known and studied. Less well known is that coral reefs can extend to depths below 500 feet. Mesophotic reefs are deep coral reefs, from 100 to over 500 feet in depth. They share some coral and fish species with shallow reefs. Other species are unique to the deep waters. The research will help managers better protect understudied deep reefs, which serve as essential habitat for economically and ecologically important species.

A large gorgonian coral grows along a reef drop-off
at a depth of about 70 meters (230 feet) off Vaitogi,
American Samoa. Photo by R.L. Pyle, under
Creative Commons License, sanctuaries.noaa.gov

USFWS's Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office will lead the project and research related to coral ecology and describing physical habitat characteristics.
University of Hawai‘i will lead the study of evolutionary relationships among organisms and environmental DNA research.
Bishop Museum will lead fish taxonomy and reproduction studies, conduct research on the diversity of algae and non-coral invertebrates, and identify environmental water characteristics.
Old Dominion University will lead bleaching studies on the susceptibility of mesophotic corals to changes in ocean temperature and water quality.
Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument will lead the fish diversity and ecology research.

Research will take inventory of species, habitat preferences, distribution and abundance data for key species, reproductive characteristics for commercially important fish, and water qual

ity. The research will help identify local and regional threats to mesophotic coral ecosystems in American Samoa, as well as predict distribution of these ecosystems across American Samoa.

American Samoa, the only U.S. territory in the South Pacific, was chosen, according to NOAA, due to the region's volcanic and coral topography. Nearly 80 percent of potential coral reef habitat in American Samoa is within the depth range of mesophotic coral ecosystems but is relatively unexplored.

Micah Reep, 15 years old, has been

missing from Ocean View since Friday,

Oct. 4. Photo from HPD

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BRING MICAH REEP HOME PRAYER VIGIL will be held this Saturday, Nov. 2, 6:30 p.m., at Nāʻālehu Assembly of God, 95-5678 Mamalahoa Hwy."Join us as we come together as a community and pray for the safe return of Micah Reep. 'The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.'– James 5:16."

Hawaiʻi Island Police are asking for the public's assistance with locating 15-year-old Ocean View resident Micah Reep. He is described as being 5 feet, 10 inches; 130 pounds; blue eyes; short, blond hair; with a light complexion. He was last seen Friday, Oct. 4 in the Ocean View area, but may also frequent the Kona and Hiloareas.

Anyone who may have information about his whereabouts is asked to call the HPD non-emergency line at (808) 935-3311 or Officer Laurence Davis, of the Ka‘ū Patrol Division at (808) 939-2520. 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 $1,000.00. 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.

Ika Vea will show his skills in making Polynesian drums at this
Saturday's Ho‘okupu Hula No Ka‘ū Cultural Festival, 10 a.m.
to 10 p.m. at Pāhala Community Center. It's free.
Photo from Vea Polynesian Gifts

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IKA VEA COMES FROM KOHALA a for a cultural demonstration this weekend. He will be the featured craftsman of Polynesian drums at Ho‘okupu Hula No Ka‘ū on Saturday. The festival is free, from 10 a.m to 10 p.m., on the grounds of Pāhala Community Center.
Go Hawaiʻi, the promotional online presence of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, writes: "In North Kohala, the art of making Polynesian rhythm instruments is still practiced at Vea Polynesian Gifts. Master craftsman Ika Vea taught himself to create drums and hula implements in the 1970s by placing an ad in the local paper offering to 'repair broken hula implements." Because he could not find someone to teach him, this gave him the perfect opportunity to deconstruct broken implements, learn how they were made in the process, then make the repair. Today, his family helps continue the tradition and welcomes patrons to their shop in Kapa‘au."
Ho‘okupu Hula No Ka‘ū also features many musicians, hula hālau, dancers from Mexico, food, and education. See hookupukau.com.

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Mauna Loa weather station today with threat of rain and possibly snow, which fell on Maunakea yesterday.

SNOW FELL ON MAUNAKEA'S SUMMITYESTERDAY and early this morning, for about 18 hours, piling up to a total of .8 inches. Yesterday, forecasters said more snow was possible today, but webcams show no snowfall, fairly clear skies, and the .8 inches of snow mostly melted.

The road to the summit remains closed, but weather has little to do with the closure. The road has been closed since July 15 due to protestation of the planned Thirty Meter Telescope.

Forecasters stated that persistent instability of the inversion layer may allow for more periods of fog and high humidity into tomorrow night. Dry and stable conditions should return to the summit, once the inversion reaches full strength again near eight thousand feet, for Friday and Saturday night. Extensive daytime clouds are possible through Friday but daytime clouds will be minimal and short-lived over the weekend.

Canada France Hawaiʻi telescope, with snow melting around it today. Webcam photo from

Canada

France

Hawaiʻi telescope

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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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

THURSDAY, OCT. 31

Ka‘ū Food Basket, Thursday, Oct. 31, 11a.m.-noon, multipurpose room, Ka‘ū District Gym, Pāhala.

Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, Thursday, Oct. 31, 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

For those interested in participating in Trunk or Treat, distributing goodies, prizes will be awarded for the best decorated car: Most Beautiful, Most Original, Spookiest, and a special awards for teachers or staff who decorate; decoration not required. Contact Nona at 928-3102 or Angie Miyashiro at 313-4100.

SATURDAY, NOV. 2

Jumble, Plant Sale, and Pancakes, Saturday, Nov. 2, 8a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. $3/person, $1/child (6-10), younger children eat for free. For sale: potted plants, kitchen tools, hand tools, home made cookies, gourmet whole grain mustard, St. Jude's Coffee, mac nuts, craft products, jam, jelly, and more. 939-7000, stjudeshawaii.org

Stewardship at the Summit, Nov. 2, 8, 15, 23, and 30, 8:45a.m., meet Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center, HVNP. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in the park. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring hat, rain gear, day pack, sunscreen, snacks, and water. Gloves and tools provided. Parental/Guardian accompaniment or written consent required for under 18. 985-6101, nps.gov/havo/

Palm Seed Stem (Inflorescence) Random Weave Baskets with Jelena Clay, Saturday, Nov. 2, 9a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. All supplies provided. $50/VAC member, $55/non-member, plus $30 supply fee/person. Pre-registration required. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Stained Glass Basics I, Saturday, Nov. 2, 9 and 16, 9a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. Glass artist Lois Pollock teaches beginners, covering all the basics to complete a glass panel. $90/VAC member, $100/non-member, plus $20 fee. Advanced registration required. Space Limited. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Ho‘okupu Hula No Ka‘ū Cultural Festival, Saturday, Nov. 2, 10a.m.-10p.m. Pāhala CommunityCenter. Features master cultural practitioners, talk story, and many educational and cultural experiences with hands-on demonstrations. Hula performances by hālau from around the world. Craft vendors, food vendors, and informational booths. Festival preceded by ceremonies at Punalu‘u Beach at dawn; ancestors honored at sunset; festival closes with ceremony at Makanau. Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder, 649-9334, leionalani47@hotmail.com, hookupukau.com

Keiki Science Class, Saturday, Nov. 2 – 1st Saturday, monthly – 11a.m.-noon, Ace Hardware Stores islandwide; Nā‘ālehu, 929-9030 and Ocean View, 929-7315. Free. acehardware.com

Sounds at the Summit featuring Wendell Ing with the release of Jazz Avenue, Saturday, Nov. 2, 5:30-7:30p.m., Volcano Art Center. Ticket are $15/VAC member, $20/non-member; includes a free CD of Jazz Avenue. Purchase tickets online, VAC Admin Office or VAC Gallery. Pupu, wine and beer available for purchase. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Bring Micah Reep Home Prayer Vigil, Saturday, Nov. 2, 6:30 p.m., Nāʻālehu Assembly of God, 95-5678 Mamalahoa Hwy."Join us as we come together as a community and pray for the safe return of Micah Reep. 'The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.'– James 5:16."

Night of the Dead: A Grateful Dead Tribute Experience featuring Bottle of Blue and Company, Saturday, Nov. 2, 6:30-9:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. First concert takes place Friday, Nov. 1, Mahukona Beach Park. Two unique shows. $25 for one day or $40 for both days. Tickets available at door; pre-sale at eventbrite.com. Rocket and Rise Productions. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Grand Slam Band, Saturday, Nov. 2, 7-10p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, in HVNP. $5 cover charge. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SUNDAY, NOV. 3

Palm Trail, Sunday, Nov. 3, 9:30-12:30p.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult hike - 2.6 mile loop. nps.gov/havo

Fused Glass Basics: Ornaments Workshop with Claudia McCall, Sunday, Nov. 3, 11a.m.-3p.m., Volcano Art Center. One day kilnforming workshop introducing basic techniques of glass fusing. $25/VAC member, $30/non-member, plus $20 fee, includes supplies. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, Nov. 3 – 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, NOV. 4

Fall Wreath Activity Registration, Nov. 4-12, Ka‘ū District Gym. Program takes place Wednesday, Nov. 13, 3:30-5p.m., multipurpose room. Grades K-6. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

Cultural Understanding through Art & the Environment: Dietrich Varez Block Printing with Desiree Moana Cruz, Monday, Nov. 4, 11a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. No registration required. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, Nov. 4, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, NOV. 5

Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Tuesday, Nov. 5 (Committees), Wednesday, Nov. 6 (Council), Hilo. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

Ka‘ū Homeschool Co–op Group, Tuesdays, Nov. 5, 19, and Dec. 3, 9a.m., Ocean View Community Center. Parent-led homeschool activity and social group, building community in Ka‘ū. Call to confirm location before attending. Laura Roberts, 406-249-3351

Empower Meeting, Tuesdays, Nov. 5 and 19 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Mtg., Tuesday, Nov. 5, 6-8p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6

Hula Voices with Kumu Hula Pele Kaio, Wednesday, Nov. 6 – 1st Wednesday, monthly – 5:30-7p.m., Volcano Art Center Gallery. Desiree Moana Cruz moderates the talk story session. Free. No December program. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

ONGOING

Help Shape Hawaiʻi Island by submitting feedback online by Thursday, Oct. 31. See more Info on the Draft General Plan at hiplanningdept.com/general-plan/.

Trunk or Treat at Kaʻū District Gym will be held Thursday, Oct. 31, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Organized by Kaʻū High and Pāhala Elementary school, the free event offers a haunted house, healthy recipes, a family-friendly atmosphere, and Trunk or Treat, where keiki and youth go from parked car to car, asking for treats.
For those interested in participating in Trunk or Treat, distributing goodies, prizes will be awarded for the best decorated car: Most Beautiful, Most Original, Spookiest, and a special awards for teachers or staff who decorate; decoration not required. Contact Nona at 928-3102 or Angie Miyashiro at 313-4100.

Nationwide 2019 Congressional App Challenge submissions from middle and high schoolers are open through Friday, Nov. 1. Submit to Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, CongressionalAppChallenge.us, apps "designed to promote innovation and engagement in computer science." All skill levels, all devices and platforms, and all programming languages, accepted.

Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū Cultural Festival Booths can be reserved. The free event on Saturday, Nov. 2, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., at Pāhala Community Center, will feature cultural practitioners and demonstrators; workshops; crafts; food; music and entertainment from artists such as Bali Hai from Mexico, Vero Cruz Folklore Dancers, taiko drummers, UH-Hilo Filipino/Samoan dancers; and hula from Mexico, Japan, Virginia, ʻOahu, and Hawaiʻi Island. Interested vendors can apply for food, craft, or information booths. Email leionalani47@hotmail.com or call 808-649-9334. See hookupukau.com.

Tiny Treasure Invitational Exhibit at Volcano Art Center gallery in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park runs through Sunday, Nov. 3. Open to the public, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Free; Park entrance fees apply. The exhibition also celebrates VAC's 45th anniversary, Oct. 21.

Artists include Daniel Rokovitz, Stone O'Daugherty, Kristin Mitsu Shiga, Pat Pearlman, and Amy Flanders, Karen and Mark Stebbins. Also on display, small works from the annual Volcano Art Collaboration from June, featuring Rose Adare, Nash Adams-Pruitt, Lisa Louise Adams, Ed Clapp, Amy Flanders, Bill Hamilton, Liz Miller, Joe Laceby, and Erik Wold. volcanoartcenter.org

Vendor Booth Space is Available for the Kamahalo Craft Fair. The 12th annual event will be held Thanksgiving weekend, Friday, Nov. 29, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 30, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cooper Center. Booths are open for crafters with quality homemade and homegrown products. Food vendors must prepare all food items in a certified kitchen and must have a Department of Health permit displayed prominently at their booth. Application online at thecoopercenter.org. Direct questions to 936-9705 or kilaueatutu@gmail.com.

King Cab 2016 Nissan Frontier for Sale by Holy Rosary Church of Pāhala and the Sacred Heart Church of Nāʻālehu. The parishes are selling the truck to raise funds to benefit both churches. The truck is a great 6 cylinder, 2WD automobile. The churches are asking for $21K or best offer. Only cash or cashier's check will be accepted. Anyone interested should contact the parish secretary Tuesday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at 928-8208.

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A mermaid greets Halloween celebrants on the Pāhala school campus this evening. See more below. Photo by Julia Neal

AT LEAST TWO COFFEE FARMS ON THE ISLAND have recently been hit by thieves. In one case, thieves stole two full supersacks and a half a supersack – some 3,000 lbs. of parchment – this past Sunday, Oct. 27. Agriculture Extension Agent Andrea Kawabata urges anyone with information call Hawaiʻi Police Department at 808-935-3311. She noted that ag theft can be prosecuted as theft in the second degree, a Class C felony. She urges farmers to "Protect yourself and your coffee (cherry, parchment, or green) or other agricultural commodities, and be aware of the following law which was created to protect farmers like yourselves:"
For the transport and sale of all agricultural commodities exceeding 200 pounds or with a value of at least $100, the Hawaiʻi Revised Statutes section 145-22 requires that (DL-22) records shall include: Seller's name, residence address, telephone number, and license plate number of any vehicle used by the seller to deliver the commodity to the place of purchase; name of farm owner and address of origin; name of buyer or consignee, and destination; and signature of the seller and, upon sale, the signature of the buyer or consignee.

Coffee farms are urged to protect themselves as some 3,000 pounds in
superbags were recently stolen from farmers. Photo by Julia Neal

A Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture Certificate of Ownership/Movement of Agricultural Commodities (DL-22) is available to download.
Sellers of ag products must be aware that sales over $300 also require the seller to present the buyer with a valid photo ID card or license, issued by a federal or state government agency. Kawabata also urges farmers to take precautions to safeguard coffee and report any thefts or possible thefts to the police. Provide suggestions and ideas on how to protect farms and property from agricultural theft, by contacting Hawaiʻi Police Department agricultural theft investigator Shane Muramaru at Shane.Muramaru@hawaiicounty.gov or 808-961-0466.
She also urges that, for safety, avoid intervening while a crime is in progress and call 911. If a theft has already been committed and for non-emergency situations, call police at 808-935-3311. Once the police arrive, provide them with photographs, videos, written documentation, and serial/identification numbers of stolen items, if possible. The more details and evidence provided, the more it might help the officer make an arrest.

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Families dressed up for Halloween and came to the Pāhala school campus for a safe celebration,
this family with its dog in full gear. See more below. Photos by Julia Neal

THE COUNTY BUYING UP LAND THAT COULD BE INUNDATED with sea level rise is not the way money should be spent to conserve special properties, says Debbie Hecht, one of the founders of the 2% land fund that uses county property tax income for land conservation. In testimony to the county, she objects to prioritizing oceanfront lands being considered for acquisition by the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Commission, based on the likelihood they could become unusable.

Culinary teacher ʻĀina Akamu with no tricks, free treats made by his students.
Photo by Julia Neal

She said the attempt to prioritize these lands is within a proposal being considered for the next edition of the county General Plan. It would "revise land acquisition and preservation regulations and criteria to include lands impacted by climate change or those with beneficial attributes for climate adaptation and mitigation," writes Hecht. She requests the public send emails, by tonight, to GeneralPlan@hawaiicounty.gov, to request that language be removed from the Draft General Plan. She recommends for the county to refrain from using PONC funds to buy coastal properties affected by climate change.
In a letter to The Kaʻū Calendar, she explained that "The Land Fund sets aside 2% of our tax dollars each year to purchase open space, parklands, access, trails, ecosystems, and cultural spaces. I am against using funds from the Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Fund for purchases of property that will be subject to coastal erosion or be underwater as a consequence of sea level rise because:
There is already a rigorous process in place for the PONC commission to evaluate any lands that are proposed by the public. Properties impacted by climate change, sea level rise, or coastal erosion can be proposed and evaluated according to the commission's process that has been in place since 2006.

A wheel to spin for Halloween celebrants to receive gifts this evening.
Photo by Julia Neal

These lands will not be usable by the public and of no public benefit, so public funding should not be used.

The PONC funding can be better used for other purchases.

The 2% Land Fund has been very successful with the criteria established in the charter that was approved by voters 3 times. Monies in this fund shall be used solely to: purchase or otherwise acquire lands and easements in the County of Hawaiʻi for public outdoor recreation and education, including access to beaches and mountains; preservation of historic or culturally important land areas and sites; protection of natural resources, significant habitat or eco-systems, including buffer zones; preservation of forests, beaches, coastal areas, natural beauty and agricultural lands; and protection of watershed lands to preserve water quality and water supply."
See more at debbiehecht.com.

A skeleton driver in a convertible at the Pāhala campus on Halloween.
Photo by Julia Neal

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HALLOWEEN IN PĀHALA drew many families to the school campus for interactive displays, treats, games and fund and a hallway in the gym designed to scare everyone with many Booh! stations. Trick or Treat handouts included books for young children and health education materials from Hui Mālama. Kaʻū High School's culinary class made decorative treats under the direction of teacher ʻĀina Akamu.

T-Rex and Pikachu with Jovena Moses,
of Pāhala. Photo by Julia Neal

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DEEPFAKE REPORT ACT passed the U.S. Senate today. Sen. Brian Scahtz said the bipartisan legislation would direct the Department of Homeland Security to conduct an annual study of deepfakes – hyper-realistic, digital manipulations of real content that depict events that did not actually occur – and other types of similar content. He said that deepfakes "can damage our national security and undermine our democracy. Our bill… directs the federal government to learn more about the scope of deepfake technology. It's an important first step in fighting disinformation."
The legislation requires DHS to assess the technology used to generate deepfakes, the uses of deepfakes by foreign and domestic entities, and available countermeasures to deepfakes, to help policymakers and the public better understand the threats deepfakes pose to our national security and election security.
The bill heads to the U.S. House of Representatives.

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Uncle Waltah, with a post from a traditional Hawaiian hale
at Hōnaunau, which he has helped construct. He shares his
skills this Saturday in Pāhala at Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū.
Photo from Hōnaunau Ola Mau Loa

ESTEEMED HAWAIIAN HALE BUILDER KUMU WALTER WONG, "Uncle Waltah," will display his skills at the Ho‘okupu Hula No Ka‘ū Cultural Festival. The event takes place this Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Pāhala Community Center.
Wong is a teacher of the construct of the traditional Hawaiian Home, the Hale. He aims to perpetuate Hawaiian culture and to bring back the skills of building a structure out of materials from the ‘āina. Every part of his hale waʻa come from the land — the pohaku - rocks for foundations, the tree poles and the thatching. Wong learned hale building fro Kumu Francis "Palani" Sinenci of Maui. The two partner on many hale projects around the state.
See honaunau.org/blog/page/3/.

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KAʻŪ ART FAIR at Ocean View Community Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. will feature hand-crafted and locally produced items by Ka‘ū artists and craftspeople. Items will be on display and for sale. "Kaʻū Inspired, Come Celebrate Beauty; Meet Talented Kaʻū Artists; Buy great handmade, aesthetic stuff." 92-8924 Leilani Circle. 939-7033, or DeeDee, 785-1158

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PARKING AT KĪLAUEA VISITOR CENTER during the holiday season will be a little better, with the addition of 20 new parking spaces. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park stated that the spaces are being added due to loss of parking capacity from seismic activity in 2018, and in anticipation of heavy visitation during the upcoming holiday season. The new parking stalls will be added to the overflow parking lot, east of the Center.

Construction on the new gravel lot began this week on previously disturbed land. The park plans to open the new gravel lot by Thanksgiving.

According to the Park, the short-term fix adds much-needed parking spaces for visitors. The closure of JaggarMuseum and Kīlauea Overlook for safety reasons following the 2018 collapse of Kīlaueasummit greatly reduced the number of available parking spots for visitors.

Long-term planning to address parking and post-eruption recovery continues at the park. For more information, visit the park website's recovery page, nps.gov/havo/recovery.htm.

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MAUNA LOA VOLCANO'S Alert Level is ADVISORY and Aviation Code is YELLOW. The mauna is not erupting. Rates of deformation and seismicity have not changed significantly over the past week and remain above long-term background levels.
During the past week, approximately 147 small-magnitude earthquakes (nearly all smaller than M2.0) were detected beneath the upper elevations of Mauna Loa. Most of the earthquakes occurred at shallow depths of less than 5 kilometers (~3 miles) below ground level, but a couple were as deep as 12 km (~7.5 mi).
Global Positioning System (GPS) and Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) measurements show continued summit inflation, consistent with magma supply to the volcano's shallow storage system.

View of cinder cones in the northeast rift zone near the summit of Mauna Loa. Mauna Kea looms in the background.

USGS/Matt Patrick photo

Readings of fumarole temperature and gas concentrations at the Sulphur Cone monitoring site on the Southwest Rift Zone remain stable.
For more information on current monitoring of Mauna Loa Volcano, see volcanoes.usgs.gov/volcanoes/mauna_loa/monitoring_summary.html.

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A CIVIL DEFENSE WARNING SIREN TESTING TODAY IN OCEAN VIEW and at Shipman Park in Keaʻau was described by the Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense message as "a series of burps" being part of the testing. Any questions from the public about these tests, call 935-0031.

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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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

SATURDAY, NOV. 2

Ho‘okupu Hula No Ka‘ū Cultural Festival, Saturday, Nov. 2, 10a.m.-10p.m., Pāhala Community Center. Features master cultural practitioners, talk story, and many educational and cultural experiences with hands-on demonstrations. Hula performances by hālau from around the world. Craft vendors, food vendors, and informational booths. Festival preceded by ceremonies at Punalu‘u Beach at dawn; ancestors honored at sunset; festival closes with ceremony at Makanau. Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder, 649-9334, leionalani47@hotmail.com, hookupukau.com

Keiki Science Class, Saturday, Nov. 2 – 1st Saturday, monthly – 11a.m.-noon, Ace Hardware Stores islandwide; Nā‘ālehu, 929-9030 and Ocean View, 929-7315. Free. acehardware.com

SUNDAY, NOV. 3

Palm Trail, Sunday, Nov. 3, 9:30-12:30p.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult hike - 2.6 mile loop. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 4

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, Nov. 4, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, NOV. 5

Empower Meeting, Tuesdays, Nov. 5 and 19 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Mtg., Tuesday, Nov. 5, 6-8p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6

THURSDAY, NOV. 7

Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Nov. 7 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6:30-8:30p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

ONGOING

Nationwide 2019 Congressional App Challenge submissions from middle and high schoolers are open through Friday, Nov. 1. Submit to Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, CongressionalAppChallenge.us, apps "designed to promote innovation and engagement in computer science." All skill levels, all devices and platforms, and all programming languages, accepted.

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Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū founder Debbie Ryder, warming up dancers for tomorrow's Ho‘okupu Hula No Ka‘ū
Cultural Festival at Pāhala Community Center. Come enjoy hula and other dance, live music, and
cultural demonstrations at the free event, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Purchase ono grinds and crafts,
and play games. See more, below. Photo from hookupukau.com

A RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE OCTOBER AS FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH was introduced by Sen. Mazie Hirono this week. The bipartisan, bicameral resolution celebrates the history and culture of Filipino Americans, and honors their contributions to the United States. U.S.Representatives Ed Case (D-HI) and TJ Cox (D-CA) introduced a companion resolution, H.Res.621, in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Said Hirono, "The first contract laborers from the Philippineswho arrived in Hawaiʻi over a hundred years ago played a key role in the struggle for workers' rights and thousands more Filipino soldiers fought alongside the United Statesmilitary to defend our country. Thanks to their efforts, Filipino Americans have made so many important contributions to the diverse tapestry of our nation – from serving in uniform and elected office to leading our business communities. I am proud to see Congress come together on a bipartisan basis to honor and reflect on the many contributions by Filipino Americans to our country."

A resolution to make October Filipino American History Month
was submitted this week. Photo from American Immigration Council

Hirono was instrumental in creating the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' (USCIS) Filipino World War II Veterans Parole program in 2016. In August 2019, the Trump Administration announced it was terminating the program, and Senator Hirono wrote to Ken Cuccinelli, the acting Director of USCIS, urging him to rescind that decision. Earlier this year, Senator Hirono reintroduced the Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act, which she previously introduced in the 113th, 114th, and 115th Congresses. This legislation would expedite the visa process for children of Filipino World War II Veterans to allow these families to be reunited. In October 2017, after years of advocacy from Hirono and the Hawaiʻi Congressional Delegation, Congress awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to the Filipino Veterans of World War II.

Read the full text of the resolution here.

The Senate resolution is co-sponsored by Hawaiʻi Sen. Brian Schatz; presidential candidates Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Kamala Harris (D-CA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA); and 13 others.

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Sen. John Mizuno

A FREE TICKET TO HAWAIʻI is one of the ways that New York City is getting rid of homeless people. A story in the New York Post on Oct. 26 revealed that "NYC secretly exports homeless to Hawaiʻi and other states without telling receiving pols."

Rep. John M. Mizuno (KalihiValley, KamehamehaHeights, portion of Lower Kalihi) sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General William P. Barr, asking that his agency investigate New York City's policy of sending homeless citizens to other states across the nation.

The article alleges that New York Mayor Bill de Blasio's "Special One-Time Assistance Program" (SOTA) has, since its inception in August, 2017, exported 12,482 homeless individuals to 32 states.

Mizuno said, "The SOTA program, to my knowledge, fails to comply with ensuring the safety, well-being, and continued support, which is needed for a homeless individual or family being displaced. The SOTA program is a recipe for disaster and inhumane to the homeless being exported out of New York."

Mizuno acknowledged that Hawaiʻi has a program called "Return to Home," for sending homeless individuals to the mainland, but only "if we have a confirmed strong support unit, meaning a family agreeing that they are willing to accept their homeless family member from Hawaiʻi."

In his letter, Mizuno wrote, "I ask that your agency conduct a legal review and investigation into this matter, as many Hawaiʻi residents have serious concerns that this illegal program could exasperate an already tragic situation here in Hawaiʻi. I believe this issue is compelling enough to warrant an inquiry and full investigation into New York City's SOTA program."

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THE INVASIVE QUEENSLAND LONGHORM BEETLE IS NOT YET IN KAʻŪ, but researchers from Big Island Invasive Species Committee say it is only a matter of time unless measures are taken to prevent its spread. The USDA Agricultural Research Service recently received a grant to hire a temporary worker to focus on the beetle problem.

The beetle, Acalolepta aesthetica, is damaging trees like cacao, citrus, ulu (breadfruit), avocado, sago palm, trumpet tree, the culturally significant koa, and the official state tree, kukui. Initially established in Puna in 2014, the invasive pest can be found as far away as Hilo. BIISC recently reported infestation in kukui trees near the Keaʻau campus of KamehamehaSchool.

The Hawaiʻi Island cacao industry is under such a threat from the pest that there is a $20 reward for the first ten beetles caught and turned in, alive, to the Department of Agriculture, according to servicewithaloha.com.

Believed to have been accidentally introduce to Hawaiʻi via imports from Queensland, Australia, the beetle is between .75 to 1.8 inches long, with a dark brown, velvet-like appearance; long antennae, up to two times the length of the body; no patterns or spots on the body; and two spines on the side of the thorax. While the adults don't harm trees, the larve, laid in the trunks of trees, tunnel through wood so extensively, they can kill the tree, depriving the tree of nutrients and water. The eggs are usually laid in already-weakened trees.

Signs of infestation include: sawdust-like frass coming out of holes in the trunk; sap oozing from area where eggs were laid; round exit holes, about .5 inches in diameter; girdling on the trunk; and branch die-back and dropping.

Spread of the beetle has been slow, according to BIISC. Measures taken to halt the spread of Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death may help reduce the spread of the beetle, said BIISC. "That could all change if someone accidentally moves infested wood, which we have been actively recommending against since the start of Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death, but of course folks may not think about other types of wood being a risk."

Report beetle sightings by sending an email with a photo to biisc@hawaii.edu. Beetles, preferably alive, can be dropped off at BIISC's office,

23 E. Kawili Street, Hilo

. Call 808-933-3340 for more.

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KEAʻAU SPACEPORT IS A NO-GO. Perhaps the first space launch proposal beyond the borders of Kaʻū, where many plans have been abandoned, Pacific Spaceport Complex-Hawaiʻi will not go forward on W.H. Shipman land.
The owners of the site pulled out of the project, reported Hawaiʻi Tribune-Herald. Y

esterday, Shipman President Peggy Farias announced that her company ended discussions with Alaska Aerospace Corp.: "We've said all along that we wanted to make the most responsible decision based on the most accurate information. We've listened to a lot of people, including the feelings of our families and the community, and we decided this wasn't the right fit." She said that public backlash was a consideration, but not necessarily the most significant one: "There's not one specific thing that we looked at. But everything together was enough to make the decision."

The situation follows last year's plan for a SpinLaunch facility north of Ranchos in Ocean View. During informational meetings on SpinLaunch, the community presented opposition and concerns for safety, energy usage, noise, and more. The owners of the technology decided to put the site in Arizona.

At Keaʻau, Alaska Aerospace Corp. proposed to build the Pacific Spaceport Complex-Hawaiʻi on W.H. Shipman land. Alaska Aerospace also operates a satellite launch facility on Kodiak Islandin Alaska.

Farias said that, while abandoning the spaceport concept, Shipman remains committed to developing educational and employment opportunities in Puna and advancing the Hawaiʻi aerospace industry, and that Hawaiʻi Space Flight Laboratory, PacificInternationalSpaceCenterfor Exploration Systems, and several state government agencies are "disappointed but understanding."

At a community meeting in February in Keaʻau, residents voiced concerns about a 2016 launch at the Alaskafacility that ended with the intentional detonation of a craft, damaging nearby facility buildings.

Terri Napeahi, a clean water advocate and vice president of the Pele Defense Fund, told HTH that such projects should be introduced by meeting with the community first. She objected to the state Legislature allocating $250,000 to fund an environmental assessment for the Keaʻau project ahead of announcing it to the public. The EA has not been released, reported the Hawaiʻi Tribune Herald. Read the whole story on the newspaper's website: hawaiitribune-herald.com/2019/10/31/hawaii-news/shipman-pulls-out-of-planned-satellite-launch-facility-this-wasnt-the-right-fit/.

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Still far above the water, a UAS on a mission to collect a sample of the water is dwarfed by the huge, hot, green pond
at Kīlauea summit. Watch the USGS video

RESULTS OF SAMPLING WATER FROM THE KĪLAUEA SUMMIT'S HOT GREEN POND, collected on Oct. 26 by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists, have been released. The scientists launched a specialized unmanned aircraft system that gathered photographs, gas measurements, and a water sample from the pond's scalding hot surface. The hexacopter drone, seen with scientists before launch, below, is dwarfed by the huge pond. The pond is much larger than a football field, and continues to grow.

HVO scientists performed some preliminary tests of the water at the caldera rim, minutes after it was collected in a sterilized plastic sleeve. Initial testing of the sample revealed a pH of 4.2. This value is acidic, though not as low as at some other volcanic lakes around the world, which can have pH values near or lower than zero. The conductivity of the water, related to the amount of dissolved solids, was above the upper limit of the available sensor. Scientists were unsuccessful in obtaining a direct measurement of the lake's temperature, but recent measurements by a thermal camera on the rim of the crater indicate a maximum water temperature of 65 to 75 degrees Celsius (149 to 167 degrees Fahrenheit). More in-depth analyses of the water will be conducted by USGS colleagues at the California Volcano Observatory. Once the data is analyzed, USGS will announce its findings.

A body of water like this has never been observed in Halema‘uma‘u crater in the history of monitoring Kīlauea Volcano.

See updates at volcanoes.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/multimedia_chronology.html.

The USGS and OAS team prepares the sampling mechanism and inspects the unmanned aerial system a few minutes

before mission start and takeoff. Precautions were taken to ensure the aircraft and sampling mechanism were

sterile, and would return safely from the pond. USGS photo

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THE AGRICULTURAL DIAGNOSTIC SERVICE CENTER on Oʻahu, which is used by Kaʻū farmers, will be closed until further notice, Agriculture Extension Agency's Andrea Kawabata announced Thursday. She said that soil, tissue, and other samples cannot be completed at this time, but measures are being taken to help clientele have samples analyzed via other facilities and companies.
During this period, ADSC will work with clients on an individual basis to assist them with analytical needs. For samples that have already been processed, ADSC will work with DellaValle Laboratory in Fresno, California, to complete the analysis. Samples that have not yet been processed will be returned to the client with a full refund and referred to Brookside Laboratory. ADSC will also assist clients with sample transfers to Brookside's receiving facility at BEI Hawaiʻi.

The late Uncle Jerry Kawanui, the kalo expert, will be honored as volunteers

continue his teaching at Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū Cultural Festival in Pāhala on

Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Photo from Agricultural Biodiversity Weblog

She stated that ADSC apologizes for the inconvenience and delay in sample processing. Questions? Contact Darren Park at darrenp@hawaii.edu or 956-6706.

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MAKE AND TAKE YOUR OWN POI with your ‘ohana at the ku‘i kalo, poi pounding, tent, tomorrow at the Ho‘okupu Hula No Ka‘ū Cultural Festival, to be held at Pāhala Community Center, starting at 10 a.m.

Mālama Hāloa Hui Kuʻi Kalo, the organization sponsoring the booth, is dedicated continuing to share the teachings and legacy of the late Uncle Jerry Konanui, a native Hawaiian expert on kalo. Anyone interested in learning more about Mālama Hāloa, future kuʻi kalo events, or in volunteering, can see the organizers manning the booth.

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Irene, left, and Bully, right, Davis will be at tomorrow's Hoʻokupu No Kaʻū
Cultural Festival to share lauhala weaving. Photo from lanai96763.com

LANAʻI LAUHALA WEAVERS IRENE AND BULLY DAVIS will share their skills at tomorrow's Ho‘okupu Hula No Ka‘ū Cultural Festival at PāhalaCommunity Center. The free public event runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and features a variety of craftspersons, showing off culturally significant skills such as hale building, poi pounding (see above article), traditional opelu fishing, carving, hula implement making, seaweed propagation, coconut weaving, and Laʻau Lapaʻau – traditional Hawaiian medicine from plants. The event also features a day-long schedule of live music, and hula and other dance.

The Davisesspend much of their time sharing cultural skills like weaving lauhala, telling moʻolelo, stories, teaching hula and chants, and modeling Hawaiian values, to youth of Hawaiʻi and visitors. They have been part of the Lanaʻi Four Season's children's cultural program for over 25 years.

See hookupukau.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.

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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

SATURDAY, NOV. 2

Stewardship at the Summit, Nov. 2, 8, 15, 23, and 30, 8:45a.m., meet Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea VisitorCenter, HVNP. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in the park. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring hat, rain gear, day pack, sunscreen, snacks, and water. Gloves and tools provided. Parental/Guardian accompaniment or written consent required for under 18. 985-6101, nps.gov/havo/

Keiki Science Class, Saturday, Nov. 2 – 1st Saturday, monthly – 11a.m.-noon, Ace Hardware Stores islandwide; Nā‘ālehu, 929-9030 and Ocean View, 929-7315. Free. acehardware.com

Bring Micah Reep Home Prayer Vigil, Saturday, Nov. 2, 6:30 p.m., Nāʻālehu Assembly of God, 95-5678 Mamalahoa Hwy. "Join us as we come together as a community and pray for the safe return of Micah Reep. 'The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.'– James 5:16."

SUNDAY, NOV. 3

Palm Trail, Sunday, Nov. 3, 9:30-12:30p.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult hike - 2.6 mile loop. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 4

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, Nov. 4, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, NOV. 5

Empower Meeting, Tuesdays, Nov. 5 and 19 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Mtg., Tuesday, Nov. 5, 6-8p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6

THURSDAY, NOV. 7

Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Nov. 7 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6:30-8:30p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

FRIDAY, NOV. 8

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, Nov. 8, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Community Dance, Friday, Nov. 8, 7-10p.m., Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Minors allowed with supervision only. No alcohol. Variety of music. Snacks provided; additional pūpū welcome. Free. 967-7800, thecoopercenter.org

ONGOING

Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū Cultural Festival Booths can be reserved. The free event tomorrow, Saturday, Nov. 2, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., at Pāhala Community Center, will feature cultural practitioners and demonstrators; workshops; crafts; food; music and entertainment from artists such as Bali Hai from Mexico, Vero Cruz Folklore Dancers, taiko drummers, UH-Hilo Filipino/Samoan dancers; and hula from Mexico, Japan, Virginia, ʻOahu, and Hawaiʻi Island. Interested vendors can apply for food, craft, or information booths. Email leionalani47@hotmail.com or call 808-649-9334. See hookupukau.com.

Paper Bag Pumpkin Activity Registration, through Tuesday, Nov. 5, Ka‘ū District Gym. Program takes place Wednesday, Nov. 6, 3:30-5p.m., multipurpose room. Grades K-6. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

Read To Me Activity Registration, through Wednesday, Nov. 6, Ka‘ū District Gym. Program takes place Thursdays, Nov. 7-21, 3:30-5p.m., multipurpose room. Grades K-6. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

West Hawai‘i Master Gardeners Program Accepting Applications through Friday, Nov. 15, cms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/whmgprogram/HOME/West-Hawaii. Classes take place Jan. 14 - April 17, 2020, every Tuesday, 9a.m.-noon. $200/person.

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Halau hula from Mexico to Japan come forward for a blessing before the beginning of Hoʻokopu Hula No
Kaʻū today in Pāhala. Photo by Julia Neal

THE TENTH ANNUAL HOʻOKUPU HULA CULTURAL CELEBRATION drew waves of people throughout today on the grounds of Pāhala Community Center. The festival was a day of learning about Hawaiian agricultural and aquaculture practices, building traditional Hawaiian houses and instruments, and witnessing music, hula and dances from as far away as Tahiti, Mexico, and Japan.

Hoʻokopu Hula No Kaʻū founder Debbie Ryder and Mayor Harry Kim
today at the festival. Photo by Julia Neal

Among those who attended were Mayor Harry Kim and Kaʻū-Keaʻau-Pāhoa District School Superintendent Keoni Farias. Both said they were inspired by the Hawaiian culture presented at the festival.
The theme was appreciation of cultures worldwide, and the welcoming of those from afar who study Polynesian music and dance. A Tahitian group from Mexico City and Hawaiian dancers from Japan were among those who graced the stage. Kumu Debbie Ryder and her husband Kawehi founded the festival on Lanaʻi, and established a cultural exchange with Hawaiian dancers and musicians from Kaʻū who traveled there. After five years the festival moved from Lanaʻi to the grounds of Pāhala Plantation House, which it quickly outgrew, and on to Pāhala Community Center. The Ryders now live and work in Kaʻū with the schools and community, teaching Hawaiian dance, music, agriculture, and other cultural practices. See photos below and more in Sunday's Kaʻū News Briefs.

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Making poi at Hoʻokopu No Kaʻū Cultural Festival
Photo by Julia Neal

MICROSCOPIC INVASIVE SPECIES, ARRIVING TO HAWAIʻI IN POTTED ORCHIDS, is the subject of legislation that passed the U.S. Senate this week. Senators Mazie Hirono and Marco Rubio (R-FL) authored the measure that requires the U.S. Department of Agriculture to submit a report on the economic and environmental impacts of importing orchids in "growing media."

The provision would require collection of data from orchid growers on a state-by-state basis to include incidences of pest detection. It also mandates an analysis of additional resources needed to prevent and mitigate introduction of pests when importing potted orchids.

In 2014, the USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service began the rulemaking process to allow the importation of orchid plants from Taiwanand Korea. In response to Hawaiʻi orchid growers' concerns, Hirono led the Hawaiʻi delegation in sending comment letters to APHIS, expressing concern with the proposed rules in 2015 and 2017. USDA APHIS moved forward with publishing final rules to allow importation of orchids in growing media.

A collection of stone poi pounders used to make poi.
Photo by Julia Neal

Said Hirono, "Unfortunately, when it approved the importation of foreign orchids the USDA ignored the warnings raised by our orchid growers about the threat of invasive species that could be imported as well. That is why we need to quantify the impacts and identify the resources necessary to protect Hawaiʻi's orchid industry. This provision is part of a broader appropriations package that includes numerous important priorities for Hawaiʻi and I will continue to fight to secure these provisions as the legislation goes to conference with the House."

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HAWAIʻI PRIORITIES in the U.S. Senate's fiscal year 2020 appropriations bills were approved on an 84-9 vote this week. The bipartisan appropriations package includes annual funding for the federal Departments of Commerce, Justice, Interior, Agriculture, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, the Environmental Protection Agency, Food and Drug Administration, and several others. The bill now moves to a conference committee to reconcile differences with the House-passed appropriations bills.

Sen. Mazie Hirono said she successfully fought for many Hawaiʻi priorities "the Trump Administration sought to eliminate" or "block," in the FY2020 budget. They are:

A report on Micronesiaand Hawaiʻi to update federal agencies' implementation of a Regional Biosecurity Plan.

Noa of Kamehameha Schools learns about native
seaweed, limu, from expert Wally Ito.
Photo by Julia Neal

Language highlighting the importance of Tropical and Subtropical crop research at USDA. This language highlights the importance of research by the Agricultural Research Service in combating invasive pests that threaten crop security in the Pacific and Insular Areas.

Funding to support the USDA Geographically Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Program. The bill provides $2 million in support of the program, which reimburses producers in Hawaiʻi, Alaska, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and insular areas for transportation costs.

Funding to acquire land for the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail. The bill provides $6 million for the National Park Service to acquire land to add to the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail on Hawaiʻi Island.

Kīlaueaeruption; Language directs USGS to keep the local community informed as plans evolve for replacing facilities.

Funding to replace U.S. Geological Survey facilities on Hawaiʻi Island that were damaged during the 2018 eruption and earthquakes.

Funding to replace lost days at sea due to the sudden decommissioning of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Hiʻialakai research ship. The bill provides $7 million to replace lost days at sea for research throughout the Hawaiian Islands.

Language rejecting proposed staffing cuts at the National Weather Service and the PacificTsunamiWarningCenter. This language rejects the Trump Administration's proposal to cut staff at NWS and to merge the PacificTsunamiWarningCenterwith the NationalTsunamiWarningCenterin Alaska.

Pam Lota Fujii helps to educate the public about local seaweed and the limu's
nutritional and cultural value. She said she hopes to come back
to Kaʻū to help with a workshop. Photo by Julia Neal

Micro-Grants for Food Security Program, $2 million. Hirono helped to create this program in the 2018 Farm Bill. Funds will be directed to nonprofit organizations in Hawaiʻi, Alaska, and outlying areas to increase the quality and quantity of locally grown food in food insecure communities through small-scale gardening, herding, and livestock operations.

Department of Transportation's Essential Air Service Program - $162 million. EASP ensures minimum standards for and provides subsidized air service to rural communities across the country including Waimea and Hana.

U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, an independent agency tasked with coordinating federal efforts to address homelessness, $3.7 million.

NationalSea Grant College Program at $75 million, a $7 million increase over 2019. NOAA's Sea Grant program funds research, education, extension, and outreach activities that benefits coastal communities in Hawaiʻi and throughout the nation.

Funding for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Space Grant Program at $47 million, a $3 million increase over 2019. The Space Grant program supports scholarships, fellowships, and internships in higher education, research infrastructure, precollege, and informal education through its 52 Space Grant consortia, including the Hawaiʻi Space Grant Consortium at the University of Hawaiʻi Mānoa, and supports flight project activities led by student teams.

Na Mamo O Kaʻū ,with James Akau preparing
kukui nuts and sea salt. Photo by Julia Neal

Compact Impact Discretionary Grants, $4.5 million. These grants provide additional financial support to affected jurisdictions to compensate for unreimbursed costs, particularly health care related costs, associated with providing services to Freely Associated States citizens.

Community Development Block Grants, $3.6 billion. "One of the federal government's most effective means to revitalize low and moderate income communities across the country," stated Hirono, CDBG funds support home ownership, housing rehabilitation, public improvements, and economic development projects throughout the nation.

HOME Investment Partnership Program, $1.25 billion. The program is a block grant to state and local government designed to produce affordable housing for low-income families.

Self-Help and Assisted Homeownership Opportunity Program, $54 million. The program helps low-income homebuyers contribute to the construction of their own homes, helps local organizations develop affordable housing and community development projects, and provides grants to nonprofit organizations to rehabilitate or make improvements to the residences of low-income and disabled veterans.

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A MEASURE TO SUPPORT URBAN AGRICULTURE was introduced by Sen. Mazie Hirono to the U.S. Senate this week. The measure would provide $5 million in funding to support activities such as indoor and vertical farms, community gardens, and urban farms.

Handbade Polynesian drums by the master, Ika Vea. Photo by Julia Neal

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EARLY ENDORSEMENTS FOR KAI KAHELE'S RUN TO REPRESENT KAʻŪ and all of Hawaiʻi's second congressional district have come in from community leaders from across the state of Hawaiʻi.

Among them are: West Kaʻū and Kona state Sen. Dru Kanuha, and state senators Stanley Chang, Kurt Fevella, Jarrett Keohokalole, Clarence Nishihara, Gil Riviere, and Maile Shimabukuro. State representatives supporting Kahele include Stacelynn Eli, Cedric Gates, Joy San Buenaventura, Chris Todd, and Tina Wildberger.
Hawaiʻi County Councilmember Sue Lee Loy, Honolulu City Council Chairman Ikaika Anderson, and former Vermontgovernor and Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean also endorse Kahele.

Other community leaders endorsing Kahele are: Chief Master Sergeant Robert Lee (Ret.), Hawaiʻi National Guard; Hon. Steven Levinson (Ret.), Hawaiʻi Supreme Court Justice; Dr. Amy Agbayani, Civil Rights Activist; Dr. Patricia Nekoba, Educator; Toni Lee and Debbie Nakanelua-Richards, Native Hawaiian Community Leaders; and Sivan Leoni and Rick Tune, former University of Hawaiʻi Men's Volleyball Teammates.

These leaders join former Hawaiʻi governors John Waiheʻe, Ben Cayetano, and Neil Abercrombie, who serve as honorary co-chairs of the Kahele for Congress Campaign Committee.

Lei from the kumu of Hoʻemalaʻi. Photo by Julia Neal

Said Kahele, "October turned into a banner month for our campaign. I am grateful and humbled to receive the strong support of these key community leaders. They come from every corner of the state and span the entire political spectrum. While they may not agree on every issue, I am proud that they stand united in their support of our grassroots movement and my bid for Congress. Their ongoing commitment to their communities lend to the good work we can do together to move Hawaiʻi forward. Thank you all for your endorsements as well as your faith and confidence that I will serve as a true voice for every resident of the second congressional district as their representative in Congress."

The Kahele for Congress Campaign Committee announced that it has raised $105,310 in online donations from over 5,000 donors, with an average contribution of $20.86 during the month of October. Kahele's campaign has raised over half a million dollars since Jan. 21.

Kahele serves as Majority Floor Leader and Chairman of the Committee on Water and Land in the Hawaiʻi State Senate where he represents his hometown of Hilo. He is an 18-year combat veteran aviator who was recently promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Hawaiʻi Air National Guard.

The second Congressional District encompasses Kaʻū, along with the entirety of Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, Kahoʻolawe, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Kaua'i, Niʻihau, and the rural parts of Oʻahu, including Waimānalo, Kailua, Kāneʻohe, the NorthShore, and the Leeward coast.

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Two HVO geologists document road cutting activities on HWY 132 on Aug. 7. One geologist is taking visual
photographs while another geologist is taking thermal photographs to make a tandem pair for comparison.
The temperature of the solidified lava was measured to 425° C (800° F) at the digging site.
USGS/geologist K. Mulliken photo

LEARN WHY THE 2018 LAVA IS STILL SO HOT in this week's Volcano Watch, written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist Carolyn Parcheta:
As roads are recut into Kīlauea's 2018 lava flow field, many have been surprised at how hot the lava remains under the surface, even though it is solidified. Why is it still so hot? The short and simple answer is that lava insulates itself very well.

Since last writing about this topic in a February 28, 2019, Volcano Watch article, we now have more accurate calculations of lava thickness, cooling times, and the relative proportions of the internal molten core to the exterior solid crust for Kīlauea's 2018 lava flow field.

Previous work by HVO scientists published in 1994 measured the cooling rate of pāhoehoe lava at Kalapana. They found that the upper crust of a basalt lava flow grows thicker as a function of the square root of time. In other words, the lava flow crust grows more slowly with time. Therefore, thicker lava flows will take longer to become completely solid.

Lava erupts from Kīlauea at a temperature of 1150° C (2100° F). In 1917, Thomas Jaggar published results from the then-active Halema‘uma‘u lava lake that indicated basalt can remain molten at temperatures as low as 750–850° C (1380–1560° F). For the calculations here, crust is considered solid when it is below 850° C (1560° F) and crust is viscoelastic (semi-solid or malleable) at 850–1070° C (1560–1950° F).

Why are roads still hot, more than a year after the flow crossed the roads? Photo by Julia Neal

Additional insight comes from previous HVO studies of active lava lakes in Kīlauea Iki, Makaopuhi, and ‘Alae craters. By drilling into the cooled upper crusts of lava lakes within these craters, scientists documented that solidification takes decades – specifically the 44-m (140 ft)-thick 1959 Kīlauea Iki lava lake took about 35 years to fully solidify. Today, its core is still hotter than 540° C (1,000° F).

Therefore, although the top surface of Kīlauea's 2018 lava flows are already solid and cool to the touch, just beneath the surface is still very hot.

Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) mapping in 2018 helped HVO create a lava flow thickness map. This map indicates that, at the intersection known as Four Corners, there is approximately 15 m (50 ft) of lava. Using this value and the equations from the 1994 study of the Kalapana lava flows, we can calculate how much of the 2018 flows have solidified.

Over the 14 months since the end of the eruption last year, the upper 7.8 m (24 ft) and lower 5.5 m (18 ft) at Four Corners should already be solidified crust, and the middle 1.7 m (5.5 ft ) should still be malleable.

It will take about 3 more years for the remaining 1.7 m (5.5 ft ) of malleable lava over the Four Corners intersection to reach 850° C (1560° F) and be completely solid.

When construction of new roads in the area expose hot temperatures just below the surface, the lava cooling profile is effectively reset. The newly-exposed surface will quickly lose heat, as if it were the original cooling surface.

This matches recent observations by road-construction crews, who noticed hot rocks being exposed at a road cut along HWY 132. HVO geologists confirmed this in August, when temperatures of 425° C (800° F) were measured at the newly-cut road site. Hot temperatures will remain several feet below the surface for now and will likely generate steam when there is rain.

Lava retains heat so well that thick flows take years to decades to completely solidify, and even longer to cool off. The UAS lava-flow thickness map indicates that over KapohoBay, the flow is over 50 m (160 ft) thick. The maximum thickness of 250 m (820 ft) is located east of the bay in an area that was formerly offshore. At both locations, the solid crusts will be the same thickness as at Four Corners, but the viscoelastic layer will be 4.7 m (15 ft). A thick molten inner core should exist within the ‘a‘ā flow delta and have a thickness of 32 m (105 ft) in the bay and an astonishing 232 m (761 ft) at the eastern area of maximum thickness.

Although Kīlauea's 2018 eruption ended 14 months ago, it will be years before the lava flows emplaced on land are entirely solidified below 850° C (1560° F), and over a century before the 250-m (820 ft)-thick area offshore fully solidifies.
Volcano Activity Updates
Kīlauea Volcano is not erupting and its USGS Volcano Alert level remains at NORMAL. Kīlauea monitoring data have shown no significant changes in volcanic activity during September. Rates of earthquake activity or seismicity across the volcano remain largely steady with three periods of increased microseismic activity each lasting a couple of days. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are low at the summit and are below detection limits at Puʻu ʻŌʻō and the lower East Rift Zone. The pond at the bottom of Halema‘uma‘u, which began forming on July 25, 2019, continues to slowly expand and deepen.

Make a glass Christmas tree ornament at Volcano Art
Center this Sunday. Photo from VAC

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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FUSED GLASS BASIC: ORNAMENTS CLASS with Claudia McCall will be held Sunday, Nov. 3 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Volcano Art Center Niʻaulani Campus in Volcano Village. This one-day kilnforming workshop will introduce participants to basic techniques of glass fusing. Glass artist McCall will share her expertise and knowledge, teaching students the skills involved in working safely with fused glass, and creating a beautiful, sturdy piece of art. "'Tis the season to create your own Christmas tree glass ornament!" states the announcement.

Kilnforming is the process of shaping glass in a kiln with heat and gravity. When the glass is heated in a kiln, its consistency takes a liquid form. Once gravity takes hold of the molten glass, the glass fills the space in which it is contained and fuses with other pieces of compatible glass. Participants will create their own Christmas tree-shaped ornament using pre-cut molds by provided by McCall. As the kiln will need to cool for a couple of hours after running the project, a break will be held for lunch. Participants are welcome to bring their own lunch for a picnic at Niʻaulani or break elsewhere.

The class fee is $30, $25 for VAC members, plus a $20 fee, inclusive of all supplies. All levels are welcome to enroll. Advance registration required; workshop limited to six adults.

"Claudia McCall started working in stained glass in 2006, when a friend gifted her with a piece. She loved the way the sunlight played through the different types of glass, and wanted to explore the possibilities of interpreting the natural world, and interest spurred by her mother's love of art and her grandmother's love of birding," stated the announcement. "Her goal is to interpret Hawaiʻi's unique environment through the stylized lens of stained glass."

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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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

SUNDAY, NOV. 3

Palm Trail, Sunday, Nov. 3, 9:30-12:30p.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult hike - 2.6 mile loop. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 4

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, Nov. 4, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, NOV. 5

Empower Meeting, Tuesdays, Nov. 5 and 19 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Mtg., Tuesday, Nov. 5, 6-8p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6

THURSDAY, NOV. 7

Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Nov. 7 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6:30-8:30p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

FRIDAY, NOV. 8

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, Nov. 8, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 9

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, Nov. 9, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

5th Annual Lā ‘Ohana, Saturday, Nov. 9, 9a.m.-3p.m., Miloli‘i Park. Live local entertainment. Free event for health and Hawaiian culture "celebrating generational knowledge." UH-Hilo Pharmacy health screenings, open enrollment for health insurance with Big Island Kokua Services Partnerships, cultural demonstrations, Hawaiian medicine from Hui Mālama Ola Nā ‘Ōiwi, informational booths from marine conservation organization, arts and crafts from community vendors. Baked goods, drinks, shaved ice, ono grinds, and more. Kaimi Kaupiko, 937-1310, kkaupiko@gmail.com

Nā Mamo o Kāwā ʻOhana Work Day, Saturday, Nov. 9, 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

Birth of Kahuku, Saturday, Nov. 9, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, easy-to-moderate hike. nps.gov/havo

Zentangle Introduction to Bitty BookZ with Lois and Earl Stokes, Saturday, Nov. 9, 10a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. Art supplies provided (returning students encouraged to bring favorite supplies). Open to all levels. No experience required. Potluck, bring food to share. $30/VAC member, $35/non-member, plus $15 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Sounds at the Summit featuring Constant as the Moon, Saturday, Nov. 9, 5:30-7:30p.m., Volcano Art Center. Doors open 5p.m. $20/VAC member, $25/non-member. Purchase tickets online, VAC Admin Office or VAC Gallery. Wine, beer, soft drinks, and snacks available for purchase. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Soul Town Band, Saturday, Nov. 9, 7-10p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, in HVNP. $5 cover charge. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

ONGOING

Tiny Treasure Invitational Exhibit at Volcano Art Center gallery in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park runs through tomorrow, Sunday, Nov. 3. Open to the public, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Free; Park entrance fees apply. The exhibition also celebrates VAC's 45th anniversary, Oct. 21.

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The dance of Veracruz in Mexico came to the grounds of Pāhala Community Center this weekend.
Photo by Julia Neal

MEXICO CAME TO KAʻŪ THIS WEEKEND WITH TRADITIONAL DANCE. The Mexicans also brought Polynesian movement that reflects training from Hawaiian hula teachers like Kumu Hula Debbie Ryder of Pāhala, along with the dance troupes' own cultural background mixed with dreams and ideas of Polynesia.
Ballet Bali Hai from Mexico City put on a full show for Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū on Saturday, with a crew of 40 who flew in from Mexico with costumes and instruments to take part in the cultural festival at Pāhala Community Center.
The dances ranged from spirited Tahitian by men and women, with music and choreography that could be in Las Vegas, to subtle hula in farm village attire. The group also offered a song for protecting Maunakea, where protests have been ongoing in opposition to building more telescopes on the mountain.
Mexican dancers also shared their own regional performances, with dances that reflect a Spanish tradition with movements steeped in Native Mexican folklore.
Hawaiian Kumu Hula attending and presenting the dance of their own hālau, lauded the Mexican emissaries of dance, for loving Hawaiʻi and Polynesia enough to dedicate themselves to hula and its music while developing their own stylings and approaches.
See photos below and more in Monday's Kaʻū News Briefs.

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Yucatan folk dance from Mexico came to Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū Cultural Festival. Photo by Julia Neal

MORE RESEARCH ON INDUSTRIAL HEMP PRODUCTION IN HAWAIʻI can move forward, now that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has released Interim Final Rules for growing and processing it under the 2018 Farm Bill. The only legal way to cultivate hemp in Hawaiʻi is under a license from the Hawaiʻi State Department of Agriculture, overseen by the USDA. This means any cannabis growing in Hawaiʻi outside of the state’s industrial hemp pilot program, no matter how it tests, is legally marijuana.

The new rules outlines provisions for the USDA to approve plans submitted by states and tribes for the domestic production of hemp. It also establishes a federal plan for producers in states or territories of tribes that do not have their own USDA-approved plan.
The state Department of Agriculture issued a statement on Friday saying it expects legislative action in order for Hawaiʻi's hemp growers to transition from the pilot program to commercial
production. In the interim, the state ag department continues to prepare a plan for submission to USDA, and to run Hawaiʻi's Industrial Hemp Research Pilot Program in accordance with the 2014 Farm Bill and current state law.

Tahitian village folk dance, interpreted by Ballet Bali Hai of Mexico City. Photo by Julia Neal

There are 36 industrial hemp growers licensed in the state under the pilot program. They include Kaʻū Hemp, with ten acres and Earth Matters, with three acres, in Kaʻū. Also listed on this island are: Mauna Loa Farms, LLC, with ten acres; Gail Baber, with ten acres; Thomas Pace, with ten acres; Lono Holdings, with three acres; Tropical Sunset Farms, LLC, with one acre; Brittany Neal, with one acre; Aloha Hemp Farm, with 8.3 acres; Lion Farms, LLC, with .2 acres; Martin M. Canning, with 9.5 acres; Asante Gardens, LLC, with less than one acre; Aloha Hemp CBD, LLP, with three acres; Island Hemp, LLC, with ten acres; and Mana Property Development, LLC, with ten acres.

Phyllis Shimabukuro-Geiser, chair of the Hawaiʻi Board of Agriculture, said, "Through the pilot program, there has been significant interest by existing and potential farmers in growing hemp in Hawaiʻi. The department is examining the new federal regulations and will continue to develop a program to ensure future commercial production of hemp in Hawaiʻi."
More information can be found on the USDA website or hdoa.hawaii.gov/hemp. The new rules will not have an immediate affect on industrial hemp cultivated under the 2014 Farm Bill programs, including Hawaiʻi's Industrial Hemp Research Pilot Program.

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Women of Mexico City who dance Tahitian in Pāhala. Photo by Julia Neal

LOOKING FOR AGRICULTURAL LAND? HAVE AG LAND TO LEASE? The Kohala Center announced that GoFarm Hawaiʻi is a resource for connecting farmers to land. For those with land to lease, the online form helps to gather information and connect farmers with that land. There is also a new land availability fact sheet, to help farmers identify land they can lease or purchase in every county. The fact sheet is available to view and download online. Visit gofarmhawaii.org for more.

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LEARN ABOUT COVER CROPS, SOIL HEALTH, AND SOIL TESTING from three educational videos recorded during a student field day for The Kohala Center's Beginner Farmer-Rancher Development Program. The videos are available to watch online.

Men from Mexico City who dance Tahitian in Pāhala arrived with
a troupe of some 40 members of Ballet Bali Hai. Photo by Julia Neal

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APPLICATIONS FOR FOODEX IN JAPAN in March of 2020 are open. Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture is accepting applications from eligible Hawaiʻi companies interested in participating in the Hawaiʻi Pavilion at FOODEX, the largest food and beverage trade show in Asia, scheduled for March 10 to 13, 2020. Applications must be submitted online by Saturday, Nov. 30. For questions, contact Yukashi Smith at 808-973-9627 or yukashi.m.smith@hawaii.gov.

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REGARDING GENOCIDE, "WE CANNOT ALLOW HISTORY TO REPEAT ITSELF," Rep. Tulsi Gabbard told the U.S. Senate last week. She urged the senators to pass House Resolution 296 to commemorate the genocide of Armenian people.

Said Gabbard, "The history of the United States has been intertwined with that of the Armenian people and the Armenian Genocide. It was American missionaries and diplomats who let the world know that the Ottoman Empire tried to ethnically cleanse itself of its Armenian and Christian populations. It was the United States that became home to many of the survivors of this genocide. Their experience inspired Raphael Lemkin to create the term genocide only to see his Jewish family suffer the same fate at the hands of Nazi Germany.

"The denial of the Armenian Genocide has had contemporary consequences. I have visited both Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh. I saw a Turkey which denies genocide and has no fear of committing it again. In fact, Turkey has begun an ethnic cleansing of the Syrian Kurds in northern Syria.

"I've long called for our government to officially recognize the Armenian Genocide. The House has spoken with a clear voice, breaking the silence, recognizing the Armenian Genocide and we call on the Senate and President Trump to do the same."

Kumu Hula Shona Lam Ho brought 30 members of her halau to Kaʻū over the weekend. Photo by Julia Neal

In 2017, she visited Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh as a Member of the House Armed Services Committee and part of a Congressional delegation led by the Congressional Armenian Caucus. During her visit she met with public and community leaders as well as academics to discuss issues of mutual interest to the U.S. and Armenia and opportunities to strengthen ties between the countries.

During her visit, stated a release from her office, "she witnessed the lasting impact that the Armenian Genocide had on Armenians in the region as well as the diaspora — including in the United States — and observed their resilience in the face of genocide denial and the struggle to maintain independence in Nagorno Karabakh."

The Hawai'i's State Legislature has passed resolutions reaffirming the Armenian Genocide and recognizing the independence of Nagorno Karabakh. Hawaiʻi is one of 49 states to acknowledge the historical record on the Armenian Genocide.

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HELICOPTER FLIGHTS LIFTING OFF FROM HAWAIʻI VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK to work in remote placed in November are planned as followed

On Tuesday, Nov. 5, from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., a crew will transport camp equipment in ‘Ōla‘a between 3,000- and 4,000-ft. elevation. Gear will be transferred from Kealakomo pullout to Nāulu/Kalapana Trail intersection. From 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., fence material will be put in place along Mauna Loa Road between 5,000- and 6,000-ft. elevation.

Hula from Hoʻomaikaʻi Hula Studio. Photo by Julia Neal

On Wednesday, Nov. 6, from 8 a.m. to noon, helicopter flights will help with invasive banana poka control on Mauna Loa Road between 5,000- and 6,000-ft. elevation.

On Thursday, Nov. 7, from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., helicopter flights will transport camp equipment in ‘Ōla‘a between 3,000- and 4,000-ft. elevation. From 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., gear will be moved from Nāulu/Kalapana trail head to the Mauna Ulu helicopter spot.

On Monday, Nov. 25, from 7 a.m. to noon, helicopter flights will assist with petrel monitoring on Mauna Loa, between 8,000- and 9,000-ft. elevation. From 8 a.m. to noon, they will assist with the control of invasive fountain grass from coastal areas to the southwest boundary below 3,000-ft. elevation.

On Tuesday, Nov. 26, from 8 a.m. to noon, flights will help control invasive fountain grass in the Great Crack area, below 1,000-ft. elevation. From 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., flights will assist with ungulate surveys and control work in Kahuku between 3,000-ft. and 7,000-ft. elevation.

The park regrets 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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EVENTS AT VOLCANO ART CENTER & GALLERY in November include a special member-only Christmas preview, hula, and an update on Hawaiʻi's endemic, endangered crow, the ʻAlala:

On Wednesday, Nov. 6, 5:30 p.m. at VAC Gallery, Hula Voices features Kumu Hula Pele Kaio.

A keiki dancer and singer watches on as Shona Lam Ho's hālau performs. Photo by Julia Neal

In this month's Zentangle: Bitty BookZ workshop with Lois and Earl Stokes on Saturday, Nov. 9 at 10 a.m., attendees will create tiny books using Zentangle techniques.

On Saturday, Nov. 9 at 5:30 p.m., Constant as the Moon will perform live in concert.

The ʻAlalā Project will give an update on the Hawaiian crow on Thursday, Nov. 14 at 6:30 p.m.

All levels are welcome in the beginner and intermediate Mixed Media Encaustic workshop with Mary Milelzcik on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 10 a.m.

This month's Hula Kahiko performance at 10:30 a.m. will be held on Nov. 16. Kumu Haʻamauliola Aiona with haumāna, students, of Ke Kula ʻO Nāwahīokalaniʻōpuʻu Public Charter School. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., come see Nā Mea Hula with Wes Awana at VAC Gallery.

VAC Gallery merrily invites members, new and old, to attend the Member's Appreciation, Christmas in the Country Preview event on Friday, Nov. 22 at 5:30 p.m. Featuring the 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit that continues through Dec. 31, this year' Christmas in the Country "promises an abundance of art and aloha to kick start your holiday season," stated the announcement. The Wreath Exhibit presents one-of-a-kind wreaths in a variety of imaginative media, techniques, and styles, from the whimsical to the traditional. Enjoy two weekends of special events.

Take a look into the future and see some of the programs, events, and exhibits lined up for 2020 in the Program Preview Exhibit on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 29 and 30.

VAC's newest series of programs, Cultural Understanding Through Art & the Environment, features classes on block printing, lauhala weaving, ti leaf lei making, and more. Visit volcanoartcenter.org/events/ for the full lineup.

The Volcano Art Center 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.

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Pāhala and Nāʻālehu Fire Stations were recently visited by Tūtū and Me families, where keiki learned about what

firefighters do, and got to see some of the equipment used. Photo from Tūtū and Me

TŪTŪ & ME TRAVELING PRESCHOOL families recently participated in a community walk field trip, where they learned about community helpers. Michelle Buck, Hawaiʻi South Partners in Development site manager, said, "Many thanks to the Nāʻālehu Public Library, Pāhala and Nāʻālehu Fire Stations, Punaluʻu Bakery, CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union, Nāʻālehu Ace Hardware, and P.A.R.E.N.T.S. Inc. We learned so much about our beautiful community and had a great day!"

Tūtū and Me families visited CU Hawaiʻi

Federal Credit Union, where keiki learned

about money. Photo from Tūtū and Me

Tūtū & Me, under Partners in Development, aims to help support and educate those five years old and younger, and their caregivers – often grandparents, due to socio-economic conditions or tradition and the value of ‘ohana, family – through an innovative traveling preschool program done in cooperation with churches and community organizations serving the Hawaiian and part-Hawaiian community.
Teaching teams, educators specializing in early childhood education, travel to communities like Nāʻālehu and Pāhala, where teach a curriculum organized around learning themes and cultural aspects, and values that continue to influence the lives of native Hawaiian children. Ten communities on the Hawaiʻi Island benefit from this instruction.
This project is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and the KamehamehaSchools, at no cost to caregivers or keiki.

Contact Buck at (808)929-8571 or see pidfoundation.org for information on the program.

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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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

MONDAY, NOV. 4

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, Nov. 4, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

TUESDAY, NOV. 5

Empower Meeting, Tuesdays, Nov. 5 and 19 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Mtg., Tuesday, Nov. 5, 6-8p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6

THURSDAY, NOV. 7

Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Nov. 7 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6:30-8:30p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

FRIDAY, NOV. 8

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, Nov. 8, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 9

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, Nov. 9, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Birth of Kahuku, Saturday, Nov. 9, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, easy-to-moderate hike. nps.gov/havo

SUNDAY, NOV. 10

Pu‘u Lokuana, Sunday, Nov. 10, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, short, moderately difficult, 0.4 mile hike. nps.gov/havo

Medicine for the Mind: Teachings in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition, Sunday, Nov. 10 – 2nd Sunday, monthly – 3-5p.m., Volcano Art Center. Free; calabash donations welcome. Dress warmly. Patty Johnson, 345-1527, volcanoartcenter.org

ONGOING

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Hilo ranks as one of the top small cities in the country for quality of life, in part because of many of the free outdoor opportunities for education and recreation, including walking along ancient Hawaiian trails, as discussed last weekend at Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū in
Pāhala by Na Ala Hele Trail & Access System representatives. See story on Hilo small city rankings below. Photo by Julia Neal

INCREASING HAWAIIAN WOMEN'S AWARENESS THAT CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IS THEIR NUMBER ONE KILLER is a goal of a recent study and program reported in the latest edition of Hawaiʻi Journal of Health & Social Welfare. In a story entitled Wahine Heart Wellness Program, the journal reports that Native Hawaiians die at younger ages than other ethnic groups. The rate of heart disease triples after menopause and 64 percent of women who died suddenly of cardiovascular disease had no previous symptoms.

In 2010, Native Hawaiian female life expectancy at birth was 79.4 years as compared to the state average of 85.6 years. Native Hawaiians have higher rates of smoking, high blood pressure, and obesity. Obesity among Native Hawaiian is 43 percent versus 23.4 percent among those of other ethnicities living in Hawaiʻi.

Hawaiian medicine and nutritious food for heart health
were on display at Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū
Cultural Celebration in Pāhala. Photo by Julia Neal

According to the journal, women's awareness that cardiovascular disease is their leading cause of death has almost doubled since 1997, but minority women's awareness lags behind. Several studies show that increasing awareness of heart disease risk can lead to decreased cardiovascular risk. Awareness of risks leads to women taking preventative action.

The study and program also involved Asian and other Pacific Island women. Participants completed a cardiovascular risk awareness questionnaire using the American Heart Association Multicultural Initiatives and Executive Leadership Team's Life's Simple 7 matrix. It identifies the seven most significant predictors of heart health and shows users a pathway for achieving ideal cardiovascular health.
The program included education on nutrition, exercise, hands-only CPR, cardiovascular disease prevention, behavioral support about barriers to lifestyle changes, and problem-solving methods. It put forth evidenced-based diets to prevent cardiovascular disease: diets high in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, such as the Mediterranean or DASH diet.
Participants received the booklet Feel Better with Less Salt, created by the Department of Native Hawaiian Health at the Queen's Health Systems. It includes culturally-specific disease management information, including concepts like paʻakai - the salt traditions of Native Hawaiians. Read The Wahine Heart Wellness report.

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HILO RANKED HIGH IN QUALITY OF LIFE, 64th out of 1,268, in WalletHub's recent analysis of the best small U.S. cities to live in. Among the attributes of this closest city to Kaʻū are a high percentage of people with health insurance and the availability of free, outdoor recreational opportunities.

One of Hilo and Kaʻū's outdoor educational activities is sailing with
Kiko Johnson-Kitagawa, of Honuʻapo, who displayed his outrigger
canoe last Saturday at Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū.
Photo by Julia Neal

Hilo's overall ranking among the best places to live, however, is low - 889th of 1,268, mostly due to high cost of living and lower income than most other cities in the study. The median household income in Hilo is $57,151 - ranking 609th. The cost of living ranks 167th highest. Hilo ranks 637th in home ownership, with 61.03 percent of residents owning their own. Housing costs are 362nd highest. Hilo residents have a "severe housing cost burden," the report states.
The U.S. Census Bureau recently released data showing. that across the country. suburban population growth outpaced city growth in 2018. To help Americans put down roots in places offering good quality of life and affordability, WalletHub compared cities with populations between 25,000 and 100,000 across 42 key indicators of livability. They range from housing costs to school-system quality to restaurants per capita.

Hilo has a 2.74 percent annual population growth, income growth of 7.22 percent, and job growth of 3.66 percent. Nineteen percent of the population of Hilo is living in poverty. Hilo residents have a 51.18 percent rate of debt per median earnings. The median credit score is 714.

Hilo residents have a 78.93 percent high school graduation rate. However, 92.08 percent of adults 25 and older in Hilo have a high school diploma or higher, a rank of 404th.

In health, 95.7 percent of Hilo's people are insured. Annually, 7,308 people die prematurely and 15.25 percent of adults are in poor or fair health. About 24 percent of Hilo adults are obese and 19.5 percent are physically inactive.

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CONSTANT AS THE MOON performs at VolcanoArtsCenterFriday, Nov. 9, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The performance is part of the VolcanoArtCenter's Sounds at the Summit series.

Tsun-Hui Hung was trained in traditional opera in Taiwanand holds a Ph.D. in cognitive ethnomusicology from OhioStateUniversity. She traveled and performed throughout the world before settling in Hawaiʻi in 2016. Tsun-Hui's collaboration with Jeff Peterson and Greg Sardinha won the Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award for Instrumental Album of the Year in 2018.
Wade Cambern, a native of Los Angeles, has made Hawaiʻi his home since the late 1970s. He is a multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning founding member of Hawaiian Style Band, writing and singing many of the group's enduring hits from the 1990s. He currently directs the Contemporary Service Music Ensemble at Central Union Church in Honolulu.

"From a chance meeting of these two Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning artists at a moonlit musical gathering on the Waiʻanae coast of Oʻahu, grew a friendship and creative collaboration at once purposeful and spontaneous, unexpected and—as Constant as the Moon," states their Facebook page. "The evocative sound of the erhu, Chinese violin, blends with guitar and voice to blossom as contemporary music nourished by ancient roots."

Tickets are $20 for VAC members, $25 non-members. Ticket holders will be able to purchase beer, wine, as well as pūpū. Tickets are available for sale at volcanoartcenter.org, at VAC's Administration Office in VolcanoVillage, and VAC Gallery in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. The last day to purchase tickets online is Friday, Nov. 8. After that, tickets will be sold at VAC Gallery and at the door, if they are not sold out. Tickets will be held at Will Call on the day of the show, pick them up any day before the show at VolcanoArtCenter's Niʻaulani Campus Administrative Office, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Humpbacks breaching. NOAA photo

HAWAIIAN ISLANDS HUMPBACK WHALE NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY ADVISORY COUNCIL meeting will be held Tuesday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at MokupāpapaDiscoveryCenter, 76 Kamehameha Ave., in Hilo. The meeting is open to the public; public comment will be taken at 2:30 p.m.
The Sanctuary has also announced the first Sanctuary Ocean Count for this whale watching season. It will be held with public volunteers along the Ka`u and other Hawaiian shorelines on Saturday, Jan. 25 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Next Tuesday, Advisory Councilmembers will meet for sanctuary updates, introduce new council members, mahalo members who will be departing, and tour the facilities. The Sanctuary Advisory Council is comprised Maui, Molokaʻi, and Oʻahu, in addition to local user groups, Native Hawaiian cultural advisors, fishing, business, conservation, science, education, and community representatives. Federal and state agency representatives also hold seats on the council.
of members representing the islands of Hawaiʻi, Kauaʻi, Lānaʻi,

The sanctuary is administered by a partnership of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries and the State of Hawaiʻithrough the Division of Aquatic Resources. The sanctuary works to protect humpback whales through research, education, conservation, and stewardship. Join on Facebook.

To receive more information, or to request a meeting agenda, contact Cindy Among-Serrao at 808-725-5923 or Cindy.Among-Serrao@noaa.gov.

Join the meeting virtually via Zoom, go to zoom.us/j/448117945, meeting ID: 448 117 945. Join One Tap Mobile to attend via phone: 1-669-900-6833, 448117945# US for calls from Hawaiʻi, or find a local number at zoom.us/u/actLU6Jx97.=

See Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov; NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries sanctuaries.noaa.gov; and the state Division of Aquatic Resources dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar/.

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WITH COSMIC SPACE FOR ETERNITY!, a sci-fi rock musical comedy, plays Friday and Saturday, Nov. 15 and 16, 7 p.m., at The Palace Theater. Novator Dada presents an original musical comedy, which follows four aliens on their space/time bending adventure after crash-landing on Earth. Come and enjoy an evening of high energy musical theater performance.
Written by Ivan Slezak & Maj Balej with Peggy Stanton, with music by Maj Balej. The play features an all-Hawaiʻi Island cast, starring: Suzanne Davy, Sherri Thal, Ethel Mann, Ilana Moidel, Ray Mann, Robert Triptow, Seth Lux, Lace Carrillo, Don Boyd, Diana Webb, Michael Evans, Gary Kort, Anthony Grosso, and others. The live band features Steve Fundy, Brent Magstadt, Peggy Stanton, and Maj Balej.
Tickets available: $15 General Admission, $25 Reserved. All tickets will be $5 more on day of show. Tickets available at the box office, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., call (808)934-7010, or visit hilopalace.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.

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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

TUESDAY, NOV. 5

Empower Meeting, Tuesdays, Nov. 5 and 19 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Mtg., Tuesday, Nov. 5, 6-8p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6

THURSDAY, NOV. 7

Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Nov. 7 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6:30-8:30p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

FRIDAY, NOV. 8

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, Nov. 8, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 9

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, Nov. 9, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Birth of Kahuku, Saturday, Nov. 9, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, easy-to-moderate hike. nps.gov/havo

SUNDAY, NOV. 10

Pu‘u Lokuana, Sunday, Nov. 10, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, short, moderately difficult, 0.4 mile hike. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 11

P&R Coach Pitch Baseball League Registration, Nov. 11 - Jan. 6, Kahuku Park. Ages 7-8. Athletic shoes, glove, and uniform required. Program takes place Jan. 13 - Apr. 16, day and time TBA. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

Free Entrance to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park in honor of Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, sunrise to sunset. nps.gov/havo

AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 11, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org

Veteran's Day Celebration, Monday, Nov. 11, 9a.m., Nā‘ālehu Community Ball Park. Live entertainment. Free lunch for all. Informational booths. Free. All ages. Sponsored by ‘O Ka‘ū Kakou. 939-2510, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation, okaukakou.org

Veterans Day Ceremony, Monday, Nov. 11, 3p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Front Lawn. Keynote Speaker: Captain Dylan Nonaka, Commander of the 871st EN CO. All veterans that attend the ceremony invited as guests for free Prime Rib Buffet. Call 967-8371 to reserve voucher before Nov. 8, late registration can register on site. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

Veterans Day Buffet, Monday, Nov. 11, 4-7.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Crater Rim Cafe. All veterans that attend the ceremony at 3p.m. on the front lawn of KMC are invited as guests for free Prime Rib Buffet. Call 967-8371 to reserve voucher before Nov. 8, late registration can register on site. All others - $29.95/adult, $15.95/child (ages 6-11). Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

ONGOING

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The team from Hawaiʻi Behavioral Health, with offices in Hilo and Waimea, came to Hoʻokupu No Hula O Kaʻū
last Saturday to reach out for homes for foster children. Photo by Julia Neal

FOSTER PARENTS ARE SOUGHT FOR CHILDREN IN KAʻŪ, according to representatives of Hawaiʻi Behavioral Health who brought their message to the community at last Saturday's Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū Cultural Celebration at Pāhala Community Center.
Hawaiʻi Behavioral Health provides Transitional Family Homes through a voluntary out-of-home placement program for children and youth with mental health and behavioral health challenges. The youth receives comprehensive support services to make positive changes in their lives and to be reunified with their parents.
According to its representatives, Hawaiʻi Behavioral Health embraces the philosophy of E Hānai i Nā Keiki, to lovingly nurture a child emotionally, intellectually, physically and spiritually. Its

Hawaiʻi Behavioral health is looking for families in Kaʻū to take in
youth in need. Photo from Hawaiʻi Behavioral Health

website notes that "Hawaiʻi has long practiced this method of raising children, which removed the stigma associated with the words 'foster child.' A hānai child is any child who is intentionally and lovingly cared for and nurtured as their own by extended (calabash) family members."
The children are cared for by trained and licensed foster parents, therapists, and Family Support Specialists, who work to provide children a stable environment, including individual and family therapy.
Families hosting the children are provided with an opportunity to make a monthly stipend of up to $1,800; an enrichment allowance to help each child explore an interest; bi-weekly group and individual consultation; ongoing communication and support for smooth transition; pre‑acceptance interviews with youth being considered for the home; an assigned therapist and other clinical staff to assist with problem-solving for youth; free 24 hours of pre‑service training specific to youth and families; extensive training and 24/7 on‑call support from a team of professionals, and respite care.

Interested families can learn more at hibh.org.

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FUNDRAISERS FOR YOUTH dominated the food offerings at last weekend's Hoʻokupu No Hula O Kaʻū. Kaʻū High School Culinary Club raised money for a second trip to Japan. Other booths raised funds for student travel and scholarships. The offerings were multicultural, ranging from pork and sweet potato wontons to sweet Hawaiian kulolo dessert dishes. See photos below.

Kaʻū High's Culinary Club raised money to go to Japan
to study cooking. Photo by Julia Neal

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CARDIAC HEALTH SERVICES FOR HAWAIʻI ISLAND continue to expand at HiloMedicalCenter, the sister to Kaʻū Hospital. Hilo Medical Center will seek $4 million for a second catheterization lab from the Hawaiʻi Legislature next session, according to hospital spokeswoman Elena Cabatu.

Hilo Medical Center has one full panel of cardiologists, including its first interventional cardiologist, Dr. Carl Juneau, hired in January. Last year, Hilo could perform diagnostic catheterizations, to see if patients needed to be sent to Oʻahu, and give medication to break up blood clots. Now, the hospital can stop a heart attack in progress by performing interventional catheterizations and maintain blood flow by inserting stents.

ʻO Kaʻū Kākou sold shave ice and raised money for
Kaʻū youth scholarships. Photo by Julia Neal

The hospital also treats chronic heart disease, taking care of those with high blood pressure or those who need cholesterol management or help with other types of chronic issues that can lead to heart disease. Cabatu said the focus of the staff is to help prevent heart attacks and give a greater shot of survival and good quality of life.

The cardiology team also includes Dr. Jamison Wyatt, Dr. James Smith, Dr. T.J. Sawyer, and nurse practitioner Terri Vrooman.

From Jan. 8 to Oct. 16, 286 heart catheterizations were performed, 43 heart attacks treated, and more than 6,000 Cardiology Clinic patients were seen. Cabatu said the hospital expects those numbers to quickly expand with a fully staffed cardiology unit.

Cabatu said that Hilo Hospital's first lab is running at full capacity and additional resources are sought to save more lives. She said HiloMedicalCenterseeks to serve people across the island with their cardiac needs. She also mentioned serving the whole person.

Poke Bowls were popular at the Cultural Fest.
Photo by Julia Neal

In 2018, the state Legislature issued $1.5 million for the interventional cardiac catheterization program. The hospital requested more funding in 2019, but that bill did not pass.

Nevertheless, Hilo Hospital was able to welcome four cardiologists and a nurse practitioner and build the program to the point of needing a second catheterization lab.

Cabatu said that keeping people here for treatment rather then medivacking them to Honolulu saves many lives. She said that people around the island want to stay on this island for care.

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AIRBNB WILL SHARE RECORDS OF MANY HAWAIIAN HOSTS with state Department of Taxation officials, according to a story this morning from Pacific Business News.

Crispy Pork Belly Plate topped the menu of local favorites at
Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū Cultural Fest. Photo by Julia Neal

The reasoning, according to the article, is to track down and collect from AirBnB hosts who have not been paying taxes on income from their rentals.

First Circuit Court Judge Bert Ayabe approved the agreement, per PBN, that records of the 1,000 highest revenue-generating hosts from 2016 to 2018 will be turned into the department. The records of any host who generated more than $2,000 per year during that period will also be provided, but anonymously, reported PBN.

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NĀʻĀLEHU ELEMENTARY SCHOOL EVENTS in November focus on reading and family:

The Scholastic Book Fair will be held Tuesday, Nov. 19 though Friday, Nov. 22 at the Nāʻālehu

Kulolo was a favored dessert at Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū Cultural Fest.
Photo by Julia Neal

Elementary School Library. The public is invited to come browse and buy on Tuesday, from 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 2:07 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.; Wednesday, from 2:07 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; and Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Family Reading Nights will be held at Nāʻālehu School Cafeteria on Wednesday, Nov. 20, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and at OceanViewCommunity Centeron Thursday, Nov. 21, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m."Come join us for a night of family reading and fun make & take activities," stated the announcement from the school. Snacks will be provided.

Filipino cuisine was one of the many multicultural offerings
at Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū Cultural Fest. Photo by Julia Neal

The Nāʻālehu Elementary School Friend-Raiser will be held Saturday, Nov. 23, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Nāʻālehu Elementary School. "A day full of fun and friendship building with food, games, prizes and more!" stated the announcement from the school.

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NOVEMBER ACTIVITIES AT KAHUKU in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park are shortened this month. Kahuku will be closed Thursday, Nov. 28, in observance of Thanksgiving. The Park will not host a Coffee Talk this month on Friday, Nov. 29.

There are no entrance fees at Kahuku and all programs are free of charge, including:

Any kine wantons ranged from savory to sweet deserts at
Hoʻokupu Hula No Kaʻū Cultural Fest. Photo by Julia Neal

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

Guided Hikes: Saturdays and Sundays, starting at 9:30 a.m.at the VCS. Nov. 9, Birth of Kahuku; Nov. 10, Puʻu O Lokuana; Nov. 16, Realms and Divisions of Kahuku; Nov, 17, Hiʻiaka & Pele; Nov. 23, Nature and Culture; Nov. 24, ‘Ōhiʻa Lehua; and Nov. 30, Palm Trail.

Kahuku invites he public to Holidays at Kahuku Craft Fair, on Saturday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More details to be announced.

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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6

THURSDAY, NOV. 7

Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Nov. 7 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6:30-8:30p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

FRIDAY, NOV. 8

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, Nov. 8, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 9

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, Nov. 9, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Birth of Kahuku, Saturday, Nov. 9, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, easy-to-moderate hike. nps.gov/havo

SUNDAY, NOV. 10

Pu‘u Lokuana, Sunday, Nov. 10, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, short, moderately difficult, 0.4 mile hike. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 11

Free Entrance to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park in honor of Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, sunrise to sunset. nps.gov/havo

AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 11, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org

TUESDAY, NOV. 12

Turkey Trot Event Registration, Nov. 12-27, Ka‘ū District Gym. Event takes place Wednesday, Nov. 27, noon-2p.m. Grades Pre-K to 6. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

Turkey Windsock Activity Registration, Nov. 12-19, Ka‘ū District Gym. Program takes place Wednesday, Nov. 20, 3:30-5p.m., multipurpose room. Grades K-6. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

Birding at Kīpukapuaulu, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 8-10a.m., Kīpukapuaulu - Bird Park - parking lot, HVNP. Led by retired USGS Biologist Nic Sherma. Two hour birding tour. $40/person. Register online. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org

Cultural Understanding through Art and the Environment: Lauhala Weaving with Ku‘uipo Kakahiki-Morales, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 11a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

After Dark in the Park - Sixty Years Later: 1959 Eruption of Kīlauea Iki and its Impacts on Volcanology, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 7-8p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientist emeritus Don Swanson presents. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo/

ONGOING

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Photographer gets up close with Delvin Navarro's Kaʻū Coffee for the feature story in Skyward, the inflight
magazine of Japan Airlines. The 13-page cover story graces the November issue. Photo by Julia Neal

KAʻŪ COFFEE DREW A COVER STORY IN JAPAN AIRLINES'Skyward inflight magazine for November. The publication produces 900,000 copies to mail plus more for the 2.6 million passengers who fly JAL worldwide. The

Lora Botanova, serving Kaʻū Mountain Coffee,
graces the cover of JAL's November inflight magazine.

cover shows Kaʻū Mountain Coffee served by Lora Botanova at Dennis Albert's farm in Wood Valley, managed by Alla Kostenko and Ruslan Kuznetsov.
The 13-page spread features the farms of Delvin and Shawnette Navarro, Trini and Francis Marques, Lisa and Jimmy DaCalio, and Edmund C. Olson's Kaʻū Coffee Mill. Also covered are Volcano Village Farmers Market, Big Island Coffee Roasters, and Flyin' Hawaiian Coffee, which sells Miranda's Kaʻū Coffee in Nāʻālehu. The photography includes a scene from Hana Hou Cafe, which sells Aikane Coffee.
Landscape images show off Punaluʻu and Honuʻapo shorelines, as well as flowers and sea turtles.
The photo, writing, and editing crew from JAL was hosted by Pāhala Plantation House where Chef Keoni Grace, and coffee farmers and enthusiasts, created food using Kaʻū Coffee. Kaʻū Coffee brazed meats and skewered coffee-infused fruits, vegetables, and meats are shown in the article entitled Kaʻū Big Island Coffee. The on-ground coordinator for the project was former Pāhala resident Kaori Miitani.

Chef Keoni Grace discusses his local grown foods
embellished with the taste of Kaʻū Coffee.
Photo by Julia Neal

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THE KTA KŌKUA I NA KŪLA CHARITY RESULTS are in. The superstore chain, which gives over $100,000 each year to schools on Hawaiʻi Island, will distribute, in January: $1,962 to Kaʻū High & Pāhala Elementary School; $815 to Nāʻālehu Elementary & Intermediate School; and $552 to VolcanoSchool of Arts & Science.

From July 31 through Sept. 10, purchases made at any KTA of products marked with the light bulb icon could contribute points to the buyer's chosen school. Students could earn more points by posting photos using the KTA Kōkua I Nā Kula Snapchat filter to Facebook or Instagram. Those students could also be awarded KTA gift cards.

For 26 years, the annual program has donated to any public or private school for grades K through 12 in Hawaiʻi County. More than $2 million has been given for school equipment, extracurricular activities, capital improvements, and beautification projects.

Other sponsors include Kraft, Heinz, Kellog's, General Mills, Friot Lay, Proctor & Gamble, Hawaiian Sun, Hawaiʻi Foodservice Alliance, Congara, Hershey's, Nabisco, Purina, Kimberly-Clark, Pepsi, and Banana Boat.

See island-wide results at ktasuperstores.com/promotions.

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REP. TULSI GABBARD QUALIFIED TODAY FOR THE FIFTH DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE. The debate will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 20 in Atlanta, GA, hosted by MSNBC and The Washington Post. It will air on MSNBC and Radio One, and stream live on MSNBC.com and WashingtonPost.com. The Washington Post reported the debate will be moderated by an all-female panel of journalists and hosted at filmmaker Tyler Perry's studios in Atlanta.

As of today, only nine candidates have qualified: Gabbard, Former Vice President Joe Biden; Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren; Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders; California Sen. Kamala Harris; New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker; South Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete Buttigieg; Entrepreneur Andrew Yang; Billionaire and climate advocate Tom Steyer; Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar; and Former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Julián Castro.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has qualified for the fifth Democratic presidential debate.
Photo from PBS

For the fifth debate, candidates Candidates will have until midnight on Wednesday, Nov. 13 to qualify. By then, they must secure at least 165,000 individual donors, including 600 individual donors from 20 states. They also must reach three percent in four Democratic National Committee approved polls, or five percent in two DNC approved polls, from the four earliest primary and caucus states: Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Nevada.

DNC Chair Tom Perez, in an interview with ABC's This Week, said that the November and December debates "will continue to raise the bar of participation, because that's what we've always done."

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STATE AND COUNTY COSTS FOR THE STANDOFF AT MAUNAKEA have reached $11 million. Over 11 weeks ago, people calling themselves Protectors, Kiaʻi, of Maunakea began an encampment at the base of Maunakea Access Road in protest of the building of the Thirty Meter Telescope. Some arrests of protestors were made during that first week. In the ensuing weeks, many politicians and celebrities have visited the encampment.

The encampment at Maunakea. Photo from Hawaiʻi Public Radio

This week, Hawaiʻi County reported that its costs reached $4.9 million. Civil Defense spent $30,401.99; Fire, $150,354.51; Mayor, $141,019.49; Parks & Recreation, $2,508.00; Prosecuting Attorney, $1,385.35; Police, $4,570,999.74; and Public Works, $195.17.

State of Hawaiʻi reported its costs reached more than 6.1 million. Attorney General Claire Connors released the breakdown: Hawaiʻi National Guard, $2.2 million; Maui County Police, $101,000; Honolulu County Police, $162,000; Attorney General, $1.6 million; Public Safety, $1.2 million; Department of Land and Natural Resources, $601,000; and Department of Transportation, $275,000.

Hawaiʻi County Police reported that "stepped-up" traffic enforcement efforts on Daniel K. Inouye Highway, Saddle Road, have resulted in issuing 5,915 citations and arresting 58 persons for 104 offenses. "The effort will continue for the duration of the ongoing protest situation to promote the safety of motorists and pedestrians alike," said a release from HPD.

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Kīlauea Iki Crater once sported the highest lava
fountain ever measured in Hawaiʻi. NPS photo

EVENTS AT HAWAIʻI VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK in November include free entrance on Monday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veteran's Day. Visitors are encouraged to check the park's online calendar of events at nps.gov/havo/planyou r
visit/calendar.htm 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 VolcanoesNational Park and Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association:

Free Entrance on Veterans Day on Monday, Nov. 11. Hawai‘i Volcanoes and all fee-charging national parks are waiving entrance fees on Veterans Day to honor the men and women who have served in the United States military, and to invite everyone to experience their American heritage by visiting national parks at no charge.

Celebrate the annual Hawaiian makahiki season
by playing ‘ulu maika at the Park. NPS photo

Sixty Years Later: 1959 eruption of Kīlauea Iki and its Impacts on Volcanology on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 7 p.m. at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Just after 8 p.m. on Nov. 14, 1959, a fissure erupted on the south wall of Kīlauea Iki Crater. Within a day, multiple vents along the fissure had consolidated into one main vent. Over the next five weeks, lava fountains gushed from the vent in 17 separate episodes, flooding the crater with a lava lake about 135 m (440 ft) deep. Lava fragments falling from the high fountains also formed a cinder-and-spatter cone named Puʻu Puaʻi, gushing hill, on the rim of Kīlauea Iki. Three days before the eruption ended on December 20, 1959, lava blasted 580 m (1,900 ft) above the vent – the highest lava fountain ever measured in Hawaiʻi. Join Don Swanson, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientist emeritus, as he talks about this remarkable eruption and how it stands apart from all eruptive activity at Kīlauea since then. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes' ongoing After Dark in the Park series.

NāPa‘ani Hula on Wednesday, Nov. 13 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., outside Hale Noa o Kīlauea, across from VolcanoArtCenter. Hawaiians have expressed themselves through hula, dance, chant, ‘oli, and mele, song, since ancient times, reveling in rhythm and music. Hula practitioner Amy Kaawaloa demonstrates the instruments used to provide rhythmic structure to hula, nā pa‘ani hula, hula implements. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes'‘Ike Hana No‘eau, Experience the Skillful Work, workshops.

Learn about nā pa‘ani hula, hula implements, on Nov. 13. NPS photo

‘Ulu Maika on Wednesday, Nov. 27 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., outside Hale Noa o Kīlauea, across from VolcanoArtCenter. Celebrate the annual Hawaiian makahiki season and come ‘ulu maika at the Park. ‘Ulu maika resembles American bowling, but uses two stakes and a disc-shaped tone instead of pins and a bowling ball. The stakes are set in the ground a few inches apart and the goal is to roll the stone between the stakes. JoinPark rangers and staff from Hawai‘i Pacific parks Association for this fun event. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes'‘Ike Hana No‘eau, Experience the Skillful Work, workshops.

Stewardship of Kīpukapuaulu, every Thursday at 9:30 a.m., Nov. 7, 14, and 21; meet at the Kīpukapuaulu parking lot, Mauna Loa Road, off Highway 11 in the Park. Help remove troublesome plants at Kīpukapuaulu, home to diverse native forest and understory plants. Bring clippers or pruners, sturdy gloves, a hat, and water. Wear closed-toe shoes and clothing that may 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 at nickem@hawaii.rr.com.

Visit the Park for free on Monday, Nov. 11. NPS photo

Stewardship at the Summit; meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center on Friday, Nov. 8 or 15, or Satruday, Nov. 23 or 30, at 8:45 a.m. Volunteer to help remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park, a World Heritage Site. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring a hat, rain gear, 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.

A Walk into the Past with Dr. Thomas A. Jaggar on Thursday, Nov. 7 and 14, and Tuesday, Nov. 19 and 26, at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m., at Kīlauea Visitor Center. Each performance lasts about an hour. Walk back to 1912, and meet the founder of 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 will conduct a tour of his tiny lab located below the Volcano House to see 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 tickets at the KīlaueaVisitorCenter'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. The Kahuku Unit is free, and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on Thanksgiving, Nov. 28. Take a self-guided hike, or join rangers on weekends for a two-hour guided trek at 9:30 a.m. Enter the Kahuku Unit of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National 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, rain gear, sun protection, and a snack are recommended for all hikes.

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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

THURSDAY, NOV. 7

Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Nov. 7 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6:30-8:30p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

FRIDAY, NOV. 8

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, Nov. 8, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 9

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, Nov. 9, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Birth of Kahuku, Saturday, Nov. 9, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, easy-to-moderate hike. nps.gov/havo

SUNDAY, NOV. 10

Pu‘u Lokuana, Sunday, Nov. 10, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, short, moderately difficult, 0.4 mile hike. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 11

Free Entrance to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park in honor of Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, sunrise to sunset. nps.gov/havo

AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 11, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org

TUESDAY, NOV. 12

Mobile Spay & Neuter Waggin', Saturday, Nov. 12, 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

Birding at Kīpukapuaulu, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 8-10a.m., Kīpukapuaulu - Bird Park - parking lot, HVNP. Led by retired USGS Biologist Nic Sherma. Two hour birding tour. $40/person. Register online. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13

Nā Pa‘ani Hula, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 10a.m.-noon, outside Hale Noa o Kīlauea, across from Volcano Art Center Gallery, HVNP. Hula practitioner Amy Kaʻawaloa demonstrates the instruments used to provide rhythmic structure to hula. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo/

Trail Less Traveled, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 10a.m.-noon, Devastation Trail parking lot, HVNP. Moderate, 2 mile, two hour roundtrip hike. $40/person. Register online. Family friendly. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org

ONGOING

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Hands in the shape of a mauna, to represent Maunkea and all she represents, at the Board of Regents meeting
on Wednesday. Photo from Big Island Video News

NEW ADMINISTRATIVE RULES FOR STEWARDSHIP OF MAUNAKEA received unanimous approval by University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents during an 11-hour meeting on Wednesday. Gov. David Ige would have to approve the rules for them to go into effect.

The UH-Hilo Performing Arts Center hosted the meeting. Big Island Video Newsreported 99 people testified and that "Nearly everyone in attendance spoke in opposition to the Regent's Maunakea stewardship resolution." Many also spoke against construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope. See tomorrow's Kaʻū News Briefs for pro and con testimony.

Kahu, Guardian, Moses Kahoʻokele Crabbe presented hoʻokupu, gifts and offerings, to the regents, including a lava stone in the shape of a cone. Crabbe led the crowd in the song Kaulana Nā Pua, Famous are the Flowers, a Hawaiian patriotic song written by Eleanor Kekoaohiwaikalani Wright Prendergast in 1893, for members of the Royal Hawaiian Band who protested the overthrow of Queen Liliʻuokalani and the HawaiianKingdom. Many audience members held up their hands in a triangle-hand gesture, made familiar recently by the Kū Kiaʻi Mauna, Stand Guard over the Mountain, movement to protect Maunakea. See the presentation at bigislandvideonews.com/2019/11/06/video-kahu-crabbe-leads-powerful-showing-at-uh-regents-mauna-kea-meeting/.

Kahu Moses Kahoʻokele Crabbe, presenting to U.H. Regents.

Photo from Big Island Video News

The Board of Regents' resolution acknowledges Maunakea as a "special and important place in the history, culture, and hearts of the peoples of Native Hawaiian ancestry and all of Hawaiʻi" and "a symbol of Native Hawaiian self-determination." It says, "any mismanagement of Maunakea is hurtful and disrespectful to the sanctity and inviolability of this place to Native Hawaiians and others."

The resolution states the Board of Regents has "clarified its roles, duties, and responsibilities." Those responsibilities include implementing management plans from as far back as 2000, the Mauna Kea Science Reserve Master Plan, and recent as public access and observatory decommissioning plans from 2010. The Board of Regents "affirms its commitment" to follow through with recommendations from the Management Plans "in an accelerated and expeditious manner."
Action items in the resolution include:

The Maunakea Master Plan update will accommodate uses by Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners.

Decommissioning of the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory and Hokukea site no later than Dec. 31, 2021. The resolution defines "decommissioning" as "the complete removal of all man-made structures at each respective site bringing each site to as close as feasible to its natural state prior to construction." The resolution requires a decommissioning schedule to be presented to the Board of Regents during or before its February 2020 meeting.
Establishment of a new educational telescope facility for the UH-Hilo on already developed land at Hale Pohaku or elsewhere, as soon as can be permitted, with a target date no later than December 31, 2021.

Kahu Moses Kahoʻokele Crabbe presented U.H. Regent
Alapaki Naheleʻa with a cone-shaped lava stone.

Photo from Big IslandVideo News

Determination of decommissioning of three additional observatory sites on or by Dec. 30, 2025, based on permits and governmental approvals. If decommissioning is required, the three sites will be reported to the Board of Regents by January 2026.
Office of Maunakea Management and Maunakea Observatories Support Services will work with ‘ImiloaAstronomyCenterto develop educational programs regarding Maunakea by Aug. 31, 2020. Programs will include Native Hawaiian culture, history, environmental, and biological considerations designed for tour guides and drivers, employees, contractors, recreational users, scientists and observatory workers, and visitors. OMKM must report to the Board of Regents on program plans at the February 2020 meeting. Capital Improvement Project budget requests to fund the programs will be submitted during the 2020 legislative session.
A reorganization and restructuring plan of "all advisory, operating, and funding bodies involved in the management of Maunakea" must be submitted to the Board of Regents by April 2020 to "improve operations and management and make it more efficient, effective, and transparent." The analysis will include consultation with the Maunakea Management Board, Kahu Ku Mauna, and appropriate members of the Hawaiʻi Island community. This includes analysis of whether management of the Maunakea Science Reserve should be "transferred to a governmental authority or other third party entity, or through alternate management mechanisms (e.g., conservation easement agreement...)."
The resolution requires that UH-Hilo cooperate with Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to resolve "any outstanding issues relating to the roadway infrastructure on Maunakea and will seek opportunities to assist DHHL in its efforts to fulfill its trust duties and responsibilities on the use of its Maunakea lands."
UH-Hilo "should pursue a partnership" with an agency or organization whose primary beneficiary is the Native Hawaiian community, to operate commercial shuttles and tours on Maunakea.
the resolution at hawaii.edu/news/2019/11/07/regents-approve-maunakea-stewardship-resolution/.
See testimony from those who opposed and supported the resolution in tomorrow's Kaʻū News Briefs.

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Watch the video at volcanoes.usgs.gov.

A DRONE-EYE VIEW VIDEO OF WATER COLLECTION at Kīlauea's summit in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Oct. 26 was released by U.S. Geologic Survey Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory. An Unmanned Aircraft System collected a sample from the hot, green pond in Halema‘uma‘u. The pond, both longer and wider than a football field, is over 10.5 meters (35 feet) deep, with an estimated temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Celsius (149-167 degrees Fahrenheit), with a pH of 4.2. Further results from the testing will be released once USGS colleagues at the California Volcano Observatory are finished analyzing the sample.

USGS HVO stated that limited UAS flights in this area are conducted with permission and coordination with Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park. The information is used to assess hazards at Kīlauea's summit, and is shared with the National Park Service and emergency managers.

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FREE PUBLIC EVENTS will be held by Hawai‘i Electric Light in November and December, to commemorate 125 years of providing electric service to Hawai‘i Island. The utility will sponsor weekly prizes on KWXX radio, 94.7 FM, through Friday, Dec. 6.

A free to the public drive-in movie night will be held on Friday, Nov. 15, in the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium parking lot in Hilo. Showtime is 6:30 p.m. Food will be available for purchase starting at 5 p.m. In addition to the movie, the family celebration includes games, prizes, and the Hawaiʻi Classic Cruizers car enthusiasts club. This is an alcohol and drug-free event. Chairs and mats are welcome but tents are not permitted. This event was postponed in August due to approaching storms.

On Thursday morning, Dec. 5, the 125th Anniversary Celebration will be held in Downtown Hilo outside the original Hilo Electric Light Company headquarters located at Kalākaua Street. The community is invited to enjoy light refreshments, historic displays, and commemorative anniversary giveaways from 8to 9:45 a.m. Lower Kalākaua Street will be closed from 6:30 to 10 a.m. for this event.

In Kona, a free to the public Outdoor Movie Night will be held on Saturday, Dec. 7, at Kona Commons starting at 5 p.m.Showtime is 6 p.m. In addition to the movie, there will be prize drawings, information booths featuring local non-profit organizations, visits with Santa, and free popcorn. Picnic chairs and blankets are welcome but coolers, alcohol, and outside food are not permitted. In the spirit of the holiday season, new, unwrapped toys will be collected for the Toys for Tots program to benefit Hawaiʻi Island keiki.

A release from the utility stated: "Our history as a kama‘aina company dates back to 1894, when 100 percent of the energy generated came from a hydroelectric unit using water leased from the Hilo Boarding School's irrigation ditch. Today, we're here 24/7, providing electricity from a diverse mix of resources including hydro, solar, wind and biofuels, drawing us closer to a 100 percent clean energy future."

For more information, visit hawaiielectriclight.com, Twitter @HIElectricLight, Facebook – HawaiianElectric, and Instagram @HawaiianElectric.

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An ‘Ua‘u, Hawaiian petrel, chick. See video at
facebook.com/hawaiivolcanoesnps/videos/2756465287748904/

KEEPING SKIES DARK, STAYING ON TRAILS, AND WEEDING OUT INVASIVE PLANTS are items on Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park's wish list. Several recent social media posts tell stories, providing reasons for these efforts:

‘Ua‘u, Hawaiian petrels, have been monitored in the Park since the early 1990s. Approximately 60 active nests are monitored per season on the high slopes of Mauna Loa. A single egg is laid and then incubated by both parents. Both parents fly to sea to forage for food to feed their chick. In November, young ‘ua‘u prepare to fledge. Their parents have already left the colony, so the fledglings are on their own for this journey. Over the next few weeks, the young seabirds will exercise their wings and take their first flight from the slopes of Mauna Loa and head directly out to sea. The young will leave in the dark of night and will not be back on land to nest on Mauna Loa for five to six years. He huaka‘i maika‘i, safe travels.

See work on trails at facebook.com/
hawaiivolcanoesnps/videos/2415644348763344/

Bright or unshielded artificial lights can disorient and ground these inexperienced flyers. Once on the ground, they are vulnerable to non-native predators, such as cats, dogs, mongooses, and rats. Keep outdoor lights shield in a downward position. Keep the night skies dark for the ‘ua‘u.

Trails don't just take care of themselves– Park staff and volunteers work hard to keep trails safe for visitors. Last year's eruption caused thousands of earthquakes and lots of rockfalls, damaging many of the Park's most popular trails. Work continues to reopen more trails in the coming weeks. Watch a time lapse of the Park trail crew carefully dissecting a massive boulder for removal at facebook.com/hawaiivolcanoesnps/videos/2415644348763344/.

The exquisite ‘ama‘u fern is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, and can range in height from two to 15 feet. There are three different species that thrive in the Park, the most common being Sadleria cyatheoides, often seen in mid-elevation, sunny areas, like Mauna Ulu. The young fronds of this ‘ama‘u are often red.

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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

FRIDAY, NOV. 8

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, Nov. 8, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 9

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, Nov. 9, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Birth of Kahuku, Saturday, Nov. 9, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, easy-to-moderate hike. nps.gov/havo

SUNDAY, NOV. 10

Pu‘u Lokuana, Sunday, Nov. 10, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, short, moderately difficult, 0.4 mile hike. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 11

Free Entrance to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park in honor of Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, sunrise to sunset. nps.gov/havo

AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 11, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org

TUESDAY, NOV. 12

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13

THURSDAY, NOV. 14

Birding at Kīpukapuaulu, Thursday, Nov. 14, 8-10a.m., Kīpukapuaulu - Bird Park - parking lot, HVNP. Led by retired USGS Biologist Nic Sherma. Two hour birding tour. $40/person. Register online. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org

‘Alalā Project Update, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30-8p.m., Volcano Art Center. $5 donation suggested. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkeley Yoshida, 747-0197

ONGOING

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Reopening of parts of Byron Ledge and Devastation Trail wills provide more parking for Kīlauea Iki Trail, and a
triple view of Kīlauea, Mauna Loa, and Mauna Kea. NPS photo

SECTIONS OF BYRON LEDGE AND DEVASTATION TRAILS REOPEN TOMORROW, Saturday, Nov. 9 in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. As eruption recovery efforts continue, the Park has repaired the parts of Byron Ledge Trail and Devastation Trail that lead to Kīlauea Iki Trail.

The scenic 1.1-mile section of trail was damaged by the 60,000 intense earthquakes during the Kīlauea eruption and summit collapse between April 30 and Aug. 4, 2018. The connector trails provide hikers with views of the Pu‘u Pua‘i cinder cone, and three volcanoes – Kīlauea, Mauna Loa, and Mauna Kea – en route to the Kīlauea Iki trailhead on the west side of the crater.

Panoramic views of Kīlauea caldera and Mauna Loa

from Byron Ledge Trail. NPS photo/Janice Wei

The reopening also provides much-needed parking at the Devastation Trail parking lot for hikers wanting to experience the iconic Kīlauea Iki Trail. Parking is limited and often overcrowded at Kīlauea Iki Overlook. Accessing Kīlauea Iki Trail by parking at the Devastation Trail parking lot adds a 2.2-mile "cherry stem" to the four-mile loop trail, for a total of 6.2 miles.

Additional disaster recovery continues in the Park. Keep track of recovery progress at nps.gov/havo/recovery.htm.

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THE CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION IN HAWAIʻI, to replace fossil fuels used for the generation of electricity, is the goal of over 75 renewable project submissions sent to the Hawaiian Electric Companies. Plans for solar, wind, energy storage, and other technologies are among response to the utilities' largest procurement effort. The submissions include more than 200 variations on how the resources could be better configured for more clean energy.

Proposed projects are under review by Hawaiian Electric's renewable acquisitions team and some may ultimately drop out. It is the largest single renewable energy procurement effort in Hawai‘i and among the largest by a U.S.utility.

Because projects are subject to competitive bidding, the utilities plans to withhold detailed information about the sizes, types and locations proposed until the final award groups are named in May 2020.

Rooftop solar from individual homes, tied to the power grid, may be among
new projects for Hawaiʻi achieving 100 percent clean energy.
Photo by Annie Bosted

In the first phase of the renewable procurement, completed in 2018, the utilities negotiated contracts for eight projects on three islands. Regulators approved seven on O‘ahu, Maui, and Hawai‘i Island to add approximately 260 megawatts of solar energy with over one gigawatt-hour of storage by the end of 2021. One project is still pending commission approval. The stable, long-term prices negotiated for those projects are significantly lower than the current cost of fossil fuel generation.

The utilities will select the final winners on May 8, and begin contract negotiations on May 15. Pending negotiations and final approvals by the Public Utilities Commission, the first renewable projects would come online in 2022.

Jim Alberts, senior vice president for Hawaiʻi Electric business development and strategic planning, said, "We're really pleased by the strong response, both in the number of projects and the diversity of approaches. Seeing such a robust response from the market is really encouraging. A lot has to fall in place to make this all work but if we're successful with these projects and others already underway we'll be well past the halfway mark to achieving the state's 100 percent renewable energy goal."

Hawaiian Electric's guiding principles in seeking renewable energy and grid services include transparency, predictability, and streamlining to lower costs for customers, with community engagement essential to success, stated a release from the utilities.

The GoFarm Hawaiʻi:Growing Veterans program at Hoʻōla Farms seeks
to give veterans tools for self sufficiency. Photo from Hoʻōla Farms

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HOʻŌLA FARMS, a non-profit in Hilo, was awarded the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture Enhancing Agricultural Opportunities for Military Veterans Grant. Of the 47 applications submitted to the program for review, Hoʻōla Farms' innovative pilot program, GoFarm Hawaiʻi: Growing Veterans, was one of six applicants selected nationwide.

The team at Hoʻōla Farms. Photo from Hoʻōla Farms

GoFarm Hawaiʻi:Growing Veteranscombines GoFarm Hawaiʻi's six month agricultural training program for commercial agriculture production, with essential health and human services to support veterans in their businesses and personal lives. The goal of the program "is to increase the number of veterans seeking and securing educational, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities in the food and agriculture sector on Hawaiʻi Island."

The program will last seven months, including a one month orientation phase and six month intensive agricultural training phase. The format consists of classroom-style lectures, in-person and via Internet; hands-on practical work days at the training farm; and field trips to operational farms. Students complete theory and practical coursework related to the fundamentals of crop farming: soil fertility, irrigation, seeds, crop planning, food safety, nutrient management, taxonomy, plant anatomy, and pest management.

Produce from Hoʻōla Farms is sold locally. Photo from Hoʻōla Farms

Classroom sessions are supplemented by hands-on farm work and field demonstrations of techniques by instructors. Participants transition to applying knowledge and skills learned by growing produce for a community-based supported agriculture program organized by GoFarm Hawaiʻi. Participants are actively farming during this phase while also gaining technical skills related to business planning and management, marketing, product development, and portfolio development.

After graduation, participants can apply for business incubation support, and utilize shared land and resources provided by GoFarm Hawaiʻi to operate a commercial agribusiness. Support of veterans in business incubator or operating independent businesses is provided by GoFarm Hawaiʻi AgBusiness Services. The services include business consulting and development technical assistance; planning and analysis of financial and operational performance, processes, and procedures; business and marketing plan development and execution; strategic planning and project management services to achieve client goals; and building an ongoing relationship that fosters continual improvement of operations.

Classes begin early 2020. Interested Veterans may inquire at hoolafarms.org or tomorrow, Saturday, Nov. 9 at 10 a.m. at the Hawaiʻi Island Veterans Day Parade in Hilo.

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CELEBRATE GENERAL KNOWLEDGE in health and Hawaiian culture at the 5th Annual Lā ʻOhana tomorrow, Saturday, Nov. 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Miloliʻi Park. Attendees of the free event can receive health screenings from University of
Hawaiʻi at Hilo School of Pharmacy; get assistance with open enrollment for health insurance from Big Island Kokua Services Partnerships; and experience cultural demonstrations, like Hawaiian medicine, laʻau lapaʻau, from Hui Malama Ola Na ʻOiwi, loi pounding, lauhala and coconut leaf weaving. The event will also have informational booths from marine conservation organization Conservation International; arts and crafts from local vendors; live entertainment by local artists; ono grinds, such as baked goods, drinks, and shaved ice to purchase; and more.

The Miloliʻi Hipuʻu online virtual academy of Kua o Ka Lā Public Charter School will be fundraising by selling baked goods, drinks, and more. The public can also purchase raffle tickets. Supporters include Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority, Hawaiʻi Community Foundation, Alu Like, UH-Hilo School of Pharmacy, Paʻa Pono Miloliʻi, Conservation International, Kua o Ka Lā PCS, Hauʻoli Kamanaʻo Church, and many others.

For more, contact Kaimi Kaupiko at (808) 937-1310 or kkaupiko@gmail.com.

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AERIAL ELECTRICITY LINE INSPECTIONS of Hawai‘i Electric Light's major overhead transmission lines will run from Monday, Nov. 18 to Wednesday, Nov. 20. The islandwide inspections are scheduled from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. However, exact times and routes will depend on weather conditions. Inspections will be conducted in a Manuiwa Airways helicopter and require the aircraft to fly low and slow, which may cause some noise disturbances. Hawai‘i Electric Light apologizes for any disruption this may cause and sincerely thanks the community for their cooperation and understanding. Questions? Concerns? Call 969-6666.

Turmeric root is commonly used in food, to dye cloth, and
in traditional medicine. Photo from gardenandhome.co.za

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A FARM IN HILO IS SEEKING A PART-TIME HARVESTER OF TURMERIC - a root used in food, for dyeing, and in traditional medicine - on Thursdays and Fridays. Compensation is determined by the number of pounds harvested. Contact Richard Kodani at 808-987-5723 for more information.

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THE MONTHLY UPDATE ON KĪLAUEA VOLCANO from U.S. Geologic Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory includes seismic activity information and more in-depth analysis of the water sample, taken from the hot, green pond in Halemaʻumaʻu:

Kīlauea Volcano Alert Level: NORMAL, Aviation Color Code: GREEN. Kīlauea is not erupting. Monitoring data continue to show steady rates of seismicity and ground deformation, low rates of sulfur dioxide emissions, and only minor geologic changes since the end of eruptive activity in September 2018.
Monitoring data have shown no significant changes in volcanic activity during September. Seismic stations detected over 1,600 events, which is an increase of about 12 percent from last month. Episodic increases in seismicity seem to have lost their timely periodicity, as the last swarm, on Oct. 13, was followed by low rates of seismicity at the summit. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are low at the summit and are below detection limits at Puʻu ʻŌʻō and the lower East Rift Zone. The pond at the bottom of Halemaʻumaʻu, which began forming on July 25, continues to slowly expand and deepen.

The collapsed summit of Kīlauea. NPS photo

Although not currently erupting, areas of persistently elevated ground temperatures and minor release of gases are still found in the vicinity of the 2018 lower East Rift Zone fissures. These include steam (water), very small amounts of hydrogen sulfide, and carbon dioxide. These conditions are expected to be long-term. Similar conditions following the 1955 eruption continued for years to decades.
Since early March 2019, GPS stations and tiltmeters at the Kīlauea summit have recorded deformation consistent with slow magma accumulation within the shallow portion of the Kīlauea summit magma system (1-2 km or approximately 1 mile below ground level). However, gas measurements have yet to indicate significant shallowing of magma. HVO continues to carefully monitor all data streams at the Kīlauea summit for important changes.
There was an inflationary event near Puʻu ʻŌʻō that occurred during the end of September through the first week of October. Continuous stations near the cone experienced an acceleration of motion consistent with source inflation on the rift between Puʻu ʻŌʻō and Kupaianaha.
Farther east, GPS stations and tiltmeters continue to show motions consistent with slowed refilling of the deep East Rift Zone magmatic reservoir in the broad region between Puʻu ʻŌʻō and Highway 130. Monitoring data do not suggest any imminent change in volcanic hazard for this area. In addition to motion along the East Rift Zone, the south flank of Kīlauea continues to creep seaward at elevated rates following the May 4, 2018 M6.9 earthquake near Kalapana. HVO continues to carefully monitor all data streams along the Kīlauea East Rift Zone and south flank for important changes.

The hot, green pond in Kīlauea's Halemaʻumaʻu Crater. USGS photo

A sample of the water collected from the Halemaʻumaʻu water lake by UAS on Oct. 26 has undergone preliminary analysis. Early results indicate that the sample has a pH of 4.2 (moderately acidic, in the range of many fruit juices) and high concentrations of dissolved sulfur and magnesium. This composition reflects complex processes including reactions between magmatic gases, groundwater (that was recharged as precipitation), and Kīlauea's basaltic rocks (through which the groundwater flows towards the pond). The water's composition is significantly different from rainwater and is also significantly different from water present in the deep Keller Well 1.5 km (1 mi) south of Halemaʻumaʻu. The difference from Keller Well water suggests that the release of magmatic gases is currently focused under the crater and ponded water, consistent with long term observations at the summit.
Results of the water sample analysis will assist HVO in evaluating potential eruptive hazards posed by Kīlauea. For example, the high concentration of dissolved sulfate in the lake water (53,000 mg per liter, 75 percent of total dissolved solids) suggests that it originates from SO2 released by magma residing at shallow depths below Halemaʻumaʻu. Further work may help constrain that depth.
If much of the SO2 emitted by subsurface magma is being dissolved into the water, current measurements of SO2 emission rate for Kīlauea summit (~30 t/d) are underestimates for true SO2 release from the magma. In the absence of the summit water, SO2 emission rates would likely be higher, perhaps closer to the ~200 t/d emitted prior to the 2008 appearance of the summit lava lake. Future changes in sulfate concentration of the water may indicate changes in SO2 degassing and magma depth.

On Oct. 26, a drone was used to collect a water sample from the hot, green pond in Halemaʻumaʻu. USGS photo

The lake is also variable in color and temperature. HVO's single sample of water may not be representative of the lake as a whole. Additional water samples may be necessary to best monitor all aspects of Kīlauea's current non-eruptive state.
Hazards remain in the lower East Rift Zone eruption area and at the Kīlauea summit. Residents and visitors near the 2018 fissures, lava flows, and summit collapse area should heed Hawaii County Civil Defense and National Park warnings. Lava flows and features created by the 2018 eruption are primarily on private property and persons are asked to be respectful and not enter or park on private property.
HVO continues to closely monitor geologic changes, seismicity, deformation, and gas emissions for any sign of increased activity at Kīlauea. HVO maintains visual surveillance of the volcano with web cameras and field visits. Additional messages and alert level changes will be issued as warranted by changing activity.
As of June 25, Kīlauea Volcano has been at NORMAL/GREEN. For definitions of USGS Volcano Alert Levels and Aviation Color Codes, see volcanoes.usgs.gov/vhp/about_alerts.html. Kīlauea remains an active volcano, and it will erupt again. Although HVO expects clear signs prior to the next eruption, the time frame of warning may be short. Island of Hawaiʻi residents should be familiar with the long-term hazard map for Kīlauea Volcano at pubs.usgs.gov/mf/1992/2193/, and should stay informed about Kīlauea activity.

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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

SATURDAY, NOV. 9

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, Nov. 9, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Birth of Kahuku, Saturday, Nov. 9, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, easy-to-moderate hike. nps.gov/havo

SUNDAY, NOV. 10

Pu‘u Lokuana, Sunday, Nov. 10, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, short, moderately difficult, 0.4 mile hike. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 11

Free Entrance to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park in honor of Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, sunrise to sunset. nps.gov/havo

AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 11, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org

TUESDAY, NOV. 12

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13

THURSDAY, NOV. 14

‘Alalā Project Update, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30-8p.m., Volcano Art Center. $5 donation suggested. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkeley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, NOV. 15

Health Insurance Sign-Up, Friday, Nov. 15, 10a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

ONGOING

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.

Hawaiian Electric Light and its sister companies plan to encourage development of more than 80,000 rooftop
systems to interact with grids around the state. Photo form HELCo

HAWAIʻI ELECTRIC CO. WANTS TO DOUBLE THE 80,000 ROOFTOP SOLAR installations that interact with the grids on Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, Lanaʻi, and Molokaʻi. The utility announced this week the creation of a Customer Energy Resources department to oversee Distributed Energy Resources and Demand Response. The aim is more buying and selling of electricity between HELCO and local sources to reach clean energy goals.

The plan is to increase participation by customers and contractors in private rooftop solar, and storage and grid services, said Shelee Kimura, senior vice president for customer service. With "customers now able to add rooftop solar, energy storage, demand response devices like grid-

interactive water heaters, and electric vehicles that store energy on their side of the meter; it made sense to unify and simplify the customers' interaction with the companies," she said.

Early next year, the utility will publish a Customer Energy Resources Strategy. The utility is consulting with stakeholders, including solar developers and their trade associations, outside renewable energy experts, regulators, and others, in developing the strategy.

Image from revisionenergy.com

Said Kimura, "To reach our clean energy goals, we will need to at least double the 80,000 customer-sited rooftop solar systems in the next 25 years, and see much higher customer participation directly or through aggregators in programs that provide incentives or different pricing, to encourage customers to reduce or shift their electricity use to support the grid."

Said Kaiulani Shinsato, Customer Energy Resources co-director for programs and policy, "As the new name suggests, we are putting the customer first, by providing a unified way for customers to understand and take advantage of more options to 'help your wallet and help the grid,' as we move to 100 percent clean energy." She and Yoh Kawanami, co-director for operations, will oversee the new department.

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NEW RULES FOR MAUNAKEA under the University of Hawaiʻi received opposition from numerous testifiers at the U.H. Regents meeting this week. Dr. Noe Noe Wong Wilson, Executive Director of Lālākea Foundation and Heritage Management faculty at U.H.-Hilo, testified for herself and Dr. Pualani Kanahele. They were both arrested for blocking the Mauankea access road in protest of building new telescopes there, in July.
Wong Wilson objected to building the Thirty Meter and other telescopes, even those to replace decommissioned ones. She also objected to an educational center at 9,000 feet at Hale Pohaku. She said an educational center already exists at the corner of Saddle Road and Maunakea Access Road, referring to the encampment of Hawaiians where classes on culture, history, and justice are presented regularly.

Dr. Noe Noe Wong Wilson opposes the new rules for Maunakea.
Photo from Big Island Video News

She said the Hawaiian and larger community should be more involved in planning management of Maunakea. She said the University should not be the manager.
"We're now at a critical junction, where major changes should take place on the mountain for the management and the involvement of Native Hawaiians in determining the future of our most sacred spaces," she said to a standing ovation.
Former Maunakea guide and author Tom Peek urged the Regents to withdraw support for the Thirty Meter Telescope and to urge its board to take the project elsewhere, "so you can actually begin the healing work...."
Author Mark Panek said that Maunakea might be astronomy's most productive place on the planet, It is also "the most academically productive place on planet Earth to study the effects of historical trauma on indigenous people." He said the Maunakea issue is "tearing actual families apart."
For more, see Big Island Video News. See testimony on support of telescopes on Maunakea in Sunday's Kaʻū News Briefs. See a story on the new rules in this past Thursday's Kaʻū News Briefs.

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LEARN WHY THE AMBIENT AIR QUALITY DATA WEBSITE has been updated by the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health. Read Volcano Watch, a weekly article and activity update written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates. The article is by colleagues with the health department:

Information about air quality is important to Hawaiʻi residents, particularly those living on the Island of Hawaiʻi, where volcanic activity can lead to frequently-changing environmental conditions. To better inform residents and visitors about current air quality conditions, DOH Clean Air Branch has updated the Hawaiʻi Ambient Air Quality Data website, health.hawaii.gov/cab/hawaii-ambient-air-quality-data/, which is best viewed using the Google Chrome browser.

The goal of the updated website is to provide near real-time statewide air quality data online. The website has proven useful to island residents and visitors, as well as state and county officials, all of whom now have a one-stop online resource for DOH air quality information. This resource will be especially useful during future eruptions.

Data for the website is pulled from 17 air quality monitoring stations throughout the state, ten of which are on the Island of Hawaiʻi. This includes six new long-term stations located at Nāʻālehu, Hōnaunau, Kailua-Kona, Keaʻau, Waikoloa, and a soon-to-be reestablished Pāhoa station. Implementation of this expanded monitoring system was a collaborative initiative between the DOH Clean Air Branch and State Laboratories Division.

Different air pollutants are measured at each of the 17 locations. All Hawaiʻi air monitoring stations measure small particulate matter (PM2.5), and most stations measure sulfur dioxide (SO2).

PM2.5 and SO2 emissions increase during eruptions and are the key contributors to vog (volcanic air pollution). Other measured pollutants include chemicals frequently found in anthropogenic (human-caused) air pollution, including large particulate matter (PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Website users can sort data by pollutant or location.

The opening page of the website displays Air Quality Index (AQI) values for each air monitoring station. The AQI is a national standard that indicates how clean or polluted the air is using a six-tiered color-coded system: good (green), moderate (yellow), unhealthy for sensitive groups (orange), unhealthy (red), very unhealthy (purple), or hazardous (maroon). It also provides information on associated health effects and who may be affected at each level.

The AQI is a calculated number based on the concentration of the pollutant in the air. The higher the AQI value, the greater the air pollution level and the greater the health concern.

Values shown on the website are for the pollutant with the highest AQI for the respective site. To view current and previous AQIs in a graphical format, click on a specific station. To display AQI values for a specific pollutant, select from pollutants listed below the "Air Quality Index" tab.

Average hourly concentrations for each monitored pollutant – PM10, PM2.5, SO2, CO, O3, and NO2 – can be viewed by selecting "Pollutant" in the "Air Quality Index' dropdown menu. Select the pollutant of interest to display hourly concentrations in parts per million (ppm) or micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3). This data is available in both map and table formats. To access the table format, click on "Hourly Monitoring Data" under the "Reports" tab.

Hawaiʻi Short Term SO2 Advisory data can be viewed by selecting "SO2 Advisory" from the "Current Air Quality" tab. Unlike the main webpage, which provides average hourly concentrations, the "SO2 Advisory" page provides 15-minute SO2 average concentrations in ppm and displays corresponding color-coded advisory levels based on specific DOH guidance for short-term SO2 exposure. The DOH guidance uses the same six-tiered color-coded structure and contains recommended actions for different groups according to SO2 concentration levels – summarized in the attached table.

The website's "Health" tab provides information related to health effects from air pollution and vog, as well as information about the AQI. Another useful tool on the website is the ability to generate reports of historical air quality data for a chosen time period filtered by station or pollutant.

Hawaiʻi residents and visitors are encouraged to visit the DOH Hawaiʻi Ambient Air Quality Data website to keep informed about changing air quality conditions and to use posted links to available resources to learn more about air pollution and its impacts on health. Additional resources related to air quality and volcanic emissions include the Hawaii Interagency Vog Information Dashboard, vog.ivhhn.org, and the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, volcanoes.usgs.gov/vhp/gas.html.

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HAWAIʻI FARM TRAILS website and mobile app is a USDA-funded project designed to build the visibility of farms, ranches, farmers markets, and ag-related events on Hawaiʻi Island. The free mobile app and website share information about local farms, agritours, and more in a centralized, easily accessible resource. Hawaiʻi Island farmers, ranchers, and food producers interested in adding their business information to the app may contact Kalisi Mausio at hifarmtrails@gmail.com. Visit hifarmtrails.com to learn more.

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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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

THURSDAY, NOV. 7

Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Nov. 7 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org

Ocean View Neighborhood Watch Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

‘O Ka‘ū Kākou Mtg., Thursday, Nov. 7, 6:30-8:30p.m., Aspen Center. okaukakou.org

FRIDAY, NOV. 8

Hawai‘i Disability Legal Services, Friday, Nov. 8, 9a.m.-noon, Ocean View Community Center. Free disability legal services provided by Hawai‘i Legal Aid. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 9

Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, Nov. 9, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Birth of Kahuku, Saturday, Nov. 9, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, easy-to-moderate hike. nps.gov/havo

SUNDAY, NOV. 10

Pu‘u Lokuana, Sunday, Nov. 10, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, short, moderately difficult, 0.4 mile hike. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 11

Free Entrance to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park in honor of Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, sunrise to sunset. nps.gov/havo

AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 11, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org

TUESDAY, NOV. 12

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13

THURSDAY, NOV. 14

‘Alalā Project Update, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30-8p.m., Volcano Art Center. $5 donation suggested. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkeley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, NOV. 15

Health Insurance Sign-Up, Friday, Nov. 15, 10a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 16

Small Group Kama‘oa Cleanup, Saturday, Nov. 16. Limited space available. Contact to be added to waitlist. 769-7629, mattieHWF@gmail.com, or kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com. wildhawaii.org

Art Fair, Saturday, Nov. 16, 8a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Hand-crafted and locally produced items on display and for sale by Ka‘ū artists and craftspeople. DeeDee, 785-1158

Fundraising Bazaar, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9a.m.-2p.m., Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church, Wai‘ōhinu. Free entry. Hot lunches and baked goods for sale. Vendor booths. Debbie Wong Yuen, 928-8039

Free Haircut Day, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9a.m.-1p.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church. Kady and Drew Foster. 12 slots available. Also, Free Shower Day and The Big Island Giving Tree will hand out clothes and items like razors and toothbrushes. 939-7000, stjudeshawaii.org

Nature & Culture, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate hike, approx. 2 miles. nps.gov/havo

Guided Hike On A 60 Year Old Lava Lake, Saturday, Nov. 16, 10a.m.-2p.m., Kīlauea Iki Overlook, HVNP. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Moderate to challenging 2.4 mile (one way) hike. $80/person. Register online. Park entrance fees may apply. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org

Mixed Media Encaustic with Mary Milelzcik, Saturday, Nov. 16, 10a.m.-3p.m., Volcano Art Center. $55/VAC member, $60/non-member, plus $30 supply fee. Supplies provided. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Nov. 16, 10a.m.-1p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Hula Kahiko - Kumu Ha‘amauliola Aiona with haumana (students) of Ke Kula ‘O Nāwahīokalani‘ōpu‘u Public Charter School, Saturday, Nov. 16, 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 Wes Awana, Saturday, Nov. 16, 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

SUNDAY, NOV. 17

Hi‘iaka & Pele, Sunday, Nov. 17, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 18

P&R T-Ball League Registration, Nov. 18 - Jan. 6, Kahuku Park. Ages 5-6. Athletic shoes required. Program takes place Jan. 13 - Apr. 16, day and time TBA. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

Nature Wreath Registration, Nov. 18-25, program takes place Tuesday, Nov. 26, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

TUESDAY, NOV. 19

Scholastic Book Fair, Tuesday, Nov. 19, Open to public: 7:30-8a.m. and 2:07-3:30p.m.; Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2:07-7p.m.; Thursday, Nov. 21, 7:30a.m.-3:30-p.m.; and Friday, Nov. 22, 7:30a.m.-2p.m., Nā‘ālehu Elementary School Library.

Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Tuesday, Nov. 19 (Committees), Wednesday, Nov. 18, (Council), Kona. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

Cultural Understanding through Art and the Environment: Ti Leaf Lei Making with Jelena Clay, Tuesday, Nov. 19, 11a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. Pre-registration required; class size limited. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 20

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, Nov. 20, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Wednesday, Nov. 20, 6-7p.m., Nāʻālehu School Cafeteria. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free.

THURSDAY, NOV. 21

Ka‘ū Food Basket, Thursday, Nov. 21, 11a.m.-noon, Pāhala Community Center. 928-3102

Volcano Friends Feeding Friends, Thursday, Nov. 21, 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

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Thursday, Nov. 21, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

FRIDAY, NOV. 22

Forest Restoration Project, Friday, Nov. 22, 8:30a.m.-3p.m., HVNP. 12+; under 18 require adult co-signature. Pre-registration required - include first and last names, email address, and phone number of each participant. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Patty Kupchak, 352-1402, forest@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org

Cultural Understanding through Art and the Environment: Guided Cultural Tour of the Ni‘aulani Forest, Friday, Nov. 22, 9:30-11a.m., Volcano Art Center. Kumu Hula Ryan McCormack leads. Tour focuses on Hawaiian protocol, traditional chants, history, and lifeways, as they relate to the native forest ecosystem. Free; open to public. Spaced is limited, reservations suggested. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Christmas in the Country featuring 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit, daily, Nov. 22 through Dec. 31, Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org

Dances of Universal Peace, Friday, Nov. 22, 6-7:30p.m., Methodist Church hall, across from Nā‘ālehu Post Office. Fun, easy to learn dances from many traditions, evoking peace. Donations welcome. No registration necessary. 939-9461, hualaniom2@yahoo.com

SATURDAY, NOV. 23

Realms and Divisions, Saturday, Nov. 23, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult, two-mile, hike. Bring snack. nps.gov/havo/

Nā‘ālehu Elementary School Friend-Raiser, Saturday, Nov. 23, 10a.m.-2p.m., Nā‘ālehu Elementary School. Friendship building activities with food, games – including bounce house, splash booth, and face painting – prizes, and more.

Saturday Thanksgiving Dinner, Saturday, Nov. 23, 10a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. 939-7000, stjudeshawaii.org

Blue Tattoo Band, Saturday, Nov. 23, 7-10p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, in HVNP. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Free; park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SUNDAY, NOV. 24

‘Ōhi‘a Lehua, Sunday, Nov. 24, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, easy one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo/

MONDAY, NOV. 25

Santa's Workshop Event Registration, Nov. 25 - Dec. 11, Ka‘ū District Gym. Event takes place Thursday, Dec. 12, 6-7:30p.m. All ages. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

Christmas Coloring Contest Registration, Nov. 25 - Dec. 11, Ka‘ū District Gym. Deadline for entries is Thursday, Dec. 12, 6p.m. Grades Pre-K to 6. 928-3102, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

Cultural Understanding through Art and the Environment: Kapa Aloha ‘Āina, the fabric of Hawai‘i with Puakea Forester, Monday, Nov. 25, 11a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. Pre-registration required; class size limited. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

TUESDAY, NOV. 26

Birding at Kīpukapuaulu, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 8-10a.m., Kīpukapuaulu - Bird Park - parking lot, HVNP. Led by retired USGS Biologist Nic Sherma. 2 hour birding tour. $40/person. Register online. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org

H.O.V.E. Road Maintenance Corp. Board Mtg., Tuesday, Nov. 26, 10a.m., H.O.V.E. RMC office, 92-8979 Lehua Lane, Ocean View. 929-9910, hoveroad.com

Guided Hike on a 60 Year Old Lava Lake, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 10a.m.-2p.m., Kīlauea Iki Overlook parking lot, HVNP. Moderate to challenging 2.4 mile hike (one way). $80/person. Register online. Park entrance fees may apply. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org

Trail Less Traveled, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 10:30a.m.-12:30p.m., Devastation Trail parking lot, HVNP. Moderate, 2 mile, two hour roundtrip hike. $40/person. Register online. Family friendly. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org

Ka‘ū Food Pantry, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 11:30a.m.-1p.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Ocean View. Volunteers welcome. Dave Breskin, 319-8333

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 27

Pom Pom Wreath Registration, Nov. 27 - Dec. 4, program takes place Tuesday, Dec. 10, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

‘Ulu Maika Demonstration, Wednesday, Nov. 27, 10a.m.-noon, Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai. Play ‘ulu maika – which resembles American bowling but uses two stakes and a disc-shaped tone instead of pins and a ball – to celebrate the annual makahiki season. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6101, nps.gov/havo/

Kōkua Kupuna Project, Wednesday, Nov. 27 – last Wednesday, monthly – 9-11a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. Seniors 60 years and older encouraged to attend, ask questions, and inquire about services offered through Legal Aid Society of Hawai‘i – referral required, 961-8626, for free legal services. Under 60, call 1-800-499-4302. More info: 329-3910 ext. 925. tahisha.despontes@legalaidhawaii.org. legalaidhawaii.org

THURSDAY, NOV. 28

Free Thanksgiving Dinner, Thursday, Nov. 28, noon-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Thanksgiving Day Buffet, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2-6p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Crater Rim Cafe. Traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixin's. $23.95/adult, $13.95/child (ages 6-11). Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8356, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

FRIDAY, NOV. 29

Holiday Challenge, Friday, Nov. 29, through beginning of Jan. 2020. Community invited to come out and vote for their favorite decorated cottage/activity. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. 967-8371, kilaueamilitarycamp.com

12th Annual Kamahalo Craft Fair, Friday, Nov. 29, 9a.m.-4p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 30, 9a.m.-3p.m., The Cooper Center, Volcano Village. Food vendors, homegrown products, and quality homemade crafts for sale. 936-9705, thecoopercenter.org

Kahuku Coffee Talk: Creatures that Have Evolved in the Dark, Friday, Nov. 29, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit Visitor Contact Station. Join local experts to learn about lava tubes and some interesting animals that call them home. Free. nps.gov/havo

Volcano Village Artists Hui 33rd Annual Studio Tour & Sale, Friday, Nov. 29, Saturday, Nov. 30, and Sunday, Dec. 1, 10a.m.-4p.m., map available at volcanovillageartistshui.com. Meet artists and view wide variety of artwork on display and available for purchase.

Program Preview Exhibit, Friday, Nov. 29, and Saturday, Nov. 30, 10a.m.-4p.m., Volcano Art Center. See what programs, events, and exhibits VAC has lined up for 2020. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 30

AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 30, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org

Palm Trail, Sunday, Nov. 30, 9:30-12:30p.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult hike - 2.6 mile loop. nps.gov/havo

Girls Nite Out Band, Saturday, Nov. 30, 7-10p.m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, in HVNP. $5 cover charge. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com

SUNDAY, DEC. 1

Pu‘u Lokuana, Sunday, Dec. 1, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, short, moderately difficult, 0.4 mile hike. nps.gov/havo

Ham Radio Potluck Picnic, Sunday, Dec. 1 – 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, DEC. 2

Cultural Understanding through Art and the Environment: Dietrich Varez Block Printing with Desiree Moana Cruz, Monday, Dec. 2, 11a.m.-1p.m., Volcano Art Center. No registration required. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Ocean View Volunteer Fire Department Mtg., Monday, Dec. 2, 4-6p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Name that Holiday Tune Registration, Dec. 2-5, Kahuku Park. Program takes place Friday, Dec. 6, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

TUESDAY, DEC. 3

Hawai‘i County Council Mtgs., Tuesday, Dec. 3 (Committees), Wednesday, Dec. 4 (Council), Hilo. Ka‘ū residents can participate via videoconferencing at Nā‘ālehu State Office Building. Agendas at hawaiicounty.gov.

Ka‘ū Homeschool Co–op Group, Tuesday, Dec. 3 and 17, 9a.m., Ocean View Community Center. Parent-led homeschool activity and social group, building community in Ka‘ū. Call to confirm location before attending. Laura Roberts, 406-249-3351

Empower Meeting, Tuesday, Dec. 3 and 17 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805

Ka‘ū Coffee Growers Mtg., Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6-8p.m., Pāhala Community Center.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 4

Holiday Ornament Registration, Dec. 4-16, Kahuku Park. Program takes place Wednesday, Dec. 18, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

ONGOING

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Kaʻū Coffee will be featured at the Taiwan International Coffee Show. It begins this Friday.
Photo from Islander Hawaiian Coffee

KAʻŪ COFFEE IS EXPECTED TO MAKE A SPLASH at the Taiwan International Coffee Show this Friday through Monday, Nov. 15-18. this week. Miranda's Coffee is featured in the presentation by Islander Hawaiʻi Coffee, which has released a video in Chinese featuring the Miranda family on their Kaʻū farm. The convention will be held at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center.

In addition, Kaʻū residents Chris Manfredi, President of the Hawaiʻi Coffee Association and Ralph Gaston, of Rusty's 100% Kaʻū Coffee, are representing Hawaiʻi Coffee Growers from throughout the state. Madeline Longorio Garcia, who worked for Kaʻū Coffee growers and often makes presentations at the Kaʻū Coffee Festival, will also attend. She was named earlier this year as the new Community Coordinator for the Specialty Coffee Association of America.
See the Islander Hawaiian Coffee Video at http://www.islander-select.com/.

Berta Miranda and family are featured in the Chinese promotional film.
Photo from Islander Hawaiian Coffee

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THE SCHEDULE FOR THE KAʻŪ COFFEE FESTIVAL in 2020 has been announced. The festival kicks off with the free Paʻina Open House at Pāhala Plantation House on Friday May 8 with a potluck, live music, and dance. Donations accepted.

On Wednesday May 13, sign up for the Kaʻū Mountain Hike through Wood Valley. Leave from Kaʻū Coffee Mill. Cost of $45 per person includes lunch.

On Thursday, May 14, take a tour of Kaʻū Valley Farms; $40 per person.

Enthusiasm for living and working in Kaʻū Coffee is expressed in the
Islander Hawaiian Coffee video.

Friday, May 15 boasts two activities: Kaʻū Coffee & Cattle Day at Aikane Plantation, with a BBQ buffet, farm animals, hay rides, and more, for $25 per person. That night, gaze at the stars of Kaʻū from Kaʻū Coffee Mill; $45 per person.

The Kaʻū Coffee Hoʻolauleʻa at Pāhala Community Center runs all day on Saturday, May 16. Featured will be hula, live musical entertainment, food and drink for sale, craft booths, information booths, and Kaʻū coffee booths and tastings. Admission is free to the public.

The annual Kaʻū Coffee Festival closes out on Sunday, May 17 with Kaʻū Coffee College at Pāhala Community Center. Learn more about coffee production and preparation from experts in the field. Admission is free to the public; donations accepted.

Other events happening during the festival include the Kaʻū Coffee Pageant and the Kaʻū Coffee Recipe Contest, dates to be determined.

See kaucoffeefestival.com/events.

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MORE TESTIMONY ABOUT the proposed new rules for the management of Maunkea was given at the University of Hawaiʻi Board of Regents meeting last week. Nearly 100 people spoke to the Board of Regents on their thoughts regarding the new rules, which were unanimously passed by the regents. The rules still have to go to Gov. David Ige for approval. See Thursday and Saturday'sKaʻū News Briefs for more.

Doug Simons, Executive Director of the Canada-France-Hawai‘i Telescope and Vice Chair of the Maunakea Management Board, said he thinks public consultation on the new rules was "skipped," and that the official position of the Maunakea observatories is that consultation from the observatories and the public needs to be addressed before any new rules are approved. Simons said that a letter from the National Science Foundation "expressed concern" about decommissioning some existing Maunakea telescopes without consultation. "If the National Science Foundation has perspective on this, we should all take note about it," said Simons.

Lisa Malakaua, of Panaʻewa, said that the land Maunakea Access Road is under jurisdiction of Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation. She stated the costs associated with the standoff at the access road "should be paid for by the kanaka," native Hawaiians, to which the crowd had a large reaction.

She suggested "cutting our losses and build another access road." She said the "protesters have said time and time again that they have no intention of leaving that access road, no matter how long it takes. I believe they will continue to balk at every attempt in resolving this matter and I also believe they are going to continue using every stalling tactic in order to cause further delays."

See the videos of testimony at Big Island Video News and more coverage in future Kaʻū News Briefs.

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THE SECOND ANNUAL VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION at Nāʻālehu Community Ball Park will be hosted by ʻO Kaʻū Kākou, tomorrow, Monday, Nov. 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A free lunch will be served to all, including chili dogs or chili and rice, salad, and brownies. Local band Shootz, and Honey Girl – the award winning hula soloist for Mark Yamanaka – will be among the entertainers.
Although there are other celebrations held around the island for veterans, OKK secretary Nadine Ebert said the group felt "we needed a celebration for Kaʻū." It is OKK's hope that people from Ocean View, Pāhala, and all over Kaʻū will come out to join in Nāʻālehu to honor of Kaʻū's veterans, she said.

Call 939-2510 or see hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation or okaukakou.org for more.

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A VETERANS DAY EVENT AT KĪLAUEA MILITARY CAMP, tomorrow, Monday, Nov. 11 at 3 p.m. on the front lawn will feature keynote speaker Captain Dylan Nonaka, Commander of the 871st EN CO.

All veterans who attend the ceremony are invited as guests for free Prime Rib Buffet. Call 967-8371 to reserve a voucher before Nov. 8, or register on site. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests.

The Veterans Day Buffet, also on Nov. 11, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., is at KMC's Crater Rim Cafe. All but veterans pay $29.95/adult, $15.95/child, age 6 to 11. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Call 967-8356 or see kilaueamilitarycamp.com.

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ENTRANCE FEES ARE WAIVED at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park in honor of Veterans Day, tomorrow, Monday, Nov. 11. This will be the last of five fee-waiver days held in 2019. Normally entrance fees are $25 per vehicle, which is good for seven consecutive days. See nps.gov/havo for more.

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A HUGE BOOK SALE by the Friends of the Kaʻū Libraries will be held at the Kauahaʻao Church Fundraising Bazaar next Saturday, Nov. 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The sale will feature a large selection of art books, a collection of World War II books, many cookbooks, a collection on fighter planes, a collection on wines of the world, vitage books, antique books, Hawaiiana, novels, non-fiction, audio books, records, and DVDs. Plants, household items, and clothes round out their inventory for this sale. This event is a major fundraiser for FOKL. All proceeds go the Pāhala Public and School Library and the Nāʻālehu Public Library.

FOKL welcomes additional donations of plants, DVDs, audio books, household items, and clothes in good condition to be delivered at the sale. FOKL does not need donations of books for this sale. Donate at 96-315 Pikake St. in Pāhala or 95-5669 Mamalahoa Hwy. in Nāʻālehu.

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LET'S TALK FOOD SAFETY workshop, presented by Hawaiʻi Food Manufacturers Association, will be held Wednesday, Nov. 14, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at West Hawaiʻi Civic Center, 74-5044 Ane Keohokālole Hwy, Conference Room A, in Council Office, Kona. Food safety expert Dr. Aurora Saulo will deliver a presentation addressing common concerns food manufacturers have about food safety regulations. There is no cost to attend; however, registration is required in advance online.

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SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE in small business credit survey by The Kohala Center. TKC is supporting the Federal Reserve's effort to collect responses about business conditions, financing needs, and credit experiences. The short survey takes approximately nine minutes to complete and all responses are confidential. Contact Megan Blazak at mblazak@kohalacenter.org with questions.

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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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

MONDAY, NOV. 11

Free Entrance to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park in honor of Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, sunrise to sunset. nps.gov/havo

TUESDAY, NOV. 12

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13

THURSDAY, NOV. 14

‘Alalā Project Update, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30-8p.m., Volcano Art Center. $5 donation suggested. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkeley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, NOV. 15

Health Insurance Sign-Up, Friday, Nov. 15, 10a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 16

Small Group Kama‘oa Cleanup, Saturday, Nov. 16. Limited space available. Contact to be added to waitlist. 769-7629, mattieHWF@gmail.com, or kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com. wildhawaii.org

Mobile Spay & Neuter Waggin', Saturday, Nov. 16, 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

Art Fair, Saturday, Nov. 16, 8a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Hand-crafted and locally produced items on display and for sale by Ka‘ū artists and craftspeople. DeeDee, 785-1158

Fundraising Bazaar, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9a.m.-2p.m., Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church, Wai‘ōhinu. Free entry. Hot lunches and baked goods for sale. Vendor booths. Debbie Wong Yuen, 928-8039

Nature & Culture, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate hike, approx. 2 miles. nps.gov/havo

Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Nov. 16, 10a.m.-1p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SUNDAY, NOV. 17

Hi‘iaka & Pele, Sunday, Nov. 17, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo

ONGOING

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Youth Challenge, which volunteers for ʻO Kaʻū Kākou and Nā Mamo O Kaʻū events, paraded for Veterans Day in
Hilo on Saturday. OKK held its Veterans Day event in Nāʻālehu. See photos in tomorrow's Kaʻū News Briefs.
Photo by David Corrigan/Big Island Video News

"WE HONOR THE SERVICE OF MILLIONS OF AMERICANS," said Sen. Mazie Hirono in her Veterans Day message. She wrote that veterans, "through their commitment, defended the values and freedoms we cherish. Today, we also renew our commitment to serve our veterans and express our sincere gratitude for the personal sacrifices they have made for us. From the Filipino World War II veteran hoping to reunite with their family in the United States to the young veteran returning home from Afghanistan, it is incumbent on all of us serving in Congress to uphold the promises we've made to those who wore the uniform of our country.
"As a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, I will continue to push for legislation and hold officials accountable to ensure our veterans receive the care and benefits they've earned."

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TULSI GABBARD, CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT, KAʻŪ'S CONGRESSWOMAN, and a Major in the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard, tweeted this morning: "On this day and every day, let us all pledge — as Americans, as patriots, as those who love our country — to honor our men and women in uniform by making sure that no veteran is left behind, that they're always taken care of." She also spoke at the inaugural Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum Veterans Day celebration.
She honored the men and women throughout history "who have worn the cloth of this country,"

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, speaking today at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Photo from Gabbard

with a promise to support and defend, even when it requires making the ultimate sacrifice to do so. She described their spirit as "Acta Non Verba - action, not words."
Gabbard said Veterans Day celebrates men and women across generations who have "put service above self - to put the wellbeing of American people and our country above all else.
"Now at a time when we have too many leaders who are looking out for their own selfish interests, for power or fame or profit, let this day, this Veterans Day, be that shining example of what service really means for the leaders of our country to follow.
She said that the terrorist attack on 9/11 "completely changed my life. It's what motivated my decision to enlist in the military and go after and to destroy the evil that visited on that day."
She reviewed her service including first working in a medical unit in 2005, about 40 miles north of Baghdad where her first task of the day in a field unit was to go through a list, name by name, of every American service member injured or hurt in the previous 24 hours. "It was heart wrenching every day because I knew that their names were not just names on a page, that these were my brothers and sisters, and that behind every single one of them, waiting anxiously at home, were moms and dads, husbands and wives, children, brothers and sisters. So many never got to make that trip home, never got to say that final goodbye, leaving their families with an emptiness that could never be filled. We will never forget our brothers and sisters."
She told of her own return from the war zone to Hawaiʻi, landing at Hickham Air Force Base where she walked off the plane "to the sweetest trade wind breezes that I have ever felt. We stood in that formation that we had been looking forward to for so long, hundreds of us standing shoulder to shoulder, listening to the final speech from our commanding officer, waiting for that most important word, 'dismissed.'

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard celebrated the anniversary of the U.S. Marines on Sunday in New Hampshire and addressed the
LA County's Veterans Day celebration on Monday. Photo from Gabbard

"We were met by our families there who held 'Welcome Home' signs and were cheering." Gabbard said that when her dad hugged her, it was the first time she had seen him cry. "As I hugged him I felt him sobbing with tears of relief. My mom then joined in the hug and for me, in that moment, that was really when I began to realize the great sacrifice that military families and our loved ones make while we're gone. While we're deployed, we're focused on our mission; we're focused on getting the job done, and thank God, it's our families who are at home who are holding down the fort. But it is our families who lay awake at night, fearing that that knock on the door may come."
She said that as she reviewed the daily list of injured in Iraq, "thinking about those who pay the price for these wars, I also wondered how many of our politicians who make this decision also laid awake at night, worrying about our brothers and sisters in uniform. My guess was not that many.
"Those of us who've been deployed were all too familiar with the quick stops in country that politicians make. They come in, touch down for a few hours, bring troops together for a quick photo op, and then go home. We're tired of these self-serving politicians; tired of those who are unwilling to sacrifice their own lives for our freedom and our safety, but are all too willing to sacrifice the lives of our men and women in uniform. Politicians - you send us into harm's way, to be the world's police, to topple dictators we don't like, to fight unnecessary wars that actually undermine our national security; squandering taxpayer dollars, destroying entire countries, and then, turning their backs on us when we come home."
She gave the example of toxic burn pits in the Middle East, where the U.S. military set fire to its waste. Those suffering and dying from exposure - before they can get the care, said Gabbard, "We've got to provide proof of that mixing pot of trash and ash that we inhaled every single day of our multiple deployments."
She also pointed to the high suicide rate and opioid epidemic among veterans who need more help. See the entire speech at facebook.com/TulsiGabbard/videos/685296228625789/.

Sen. Kai Kahele and his family. Photo from Kahele

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CANDIDATE TO REPRESENT KAʻŪ IN CONGRESS, KAI KAHALE, released this Veterans Day statement:

"Please join me in thanking the millions of men and women who have donned a uniform in service to our country. Today, we remember all veterans who have bravely safeguarded our daily freedoms and democracy that are the pillars of our society, to which we have gratefully grown accustomed. We honor their sacrifices, commitment, and selfless service. We also honor the sacrifice of men and women who do their jobs to protect the freedoms we all are fortunate to have today.
"On this Veterans Day, we honor all who have served. We thank you and your families for your service to our country. May God bless our veterans, their families, and the United States of America."

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A 4.9 EARTHQUAKE SHOOK KAʻŪ LIGHTLY at 6:36 a.m., with its epicenter about 11 miles southwest of Laupāhohoe at a depth of 20 miles, reports U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

In red, foreshocks, the main shock, and aftershocks
of this morning's Manakea quake. USGS map

Light to moderate shaking, with a maximum Intensity of V on the Mercalli Intensity Scale, was reported around the island, with weak shaking reported from as far away as Oʻahu. The USGS "Did you feel it?" service, http://earthquake.usgs.gov/dyfi/, received over 1,000 felt reports within an hour of the earthquake.
A magnitude-2.6 foreshock occurred in the same area about three minutes prior to the main shock. Aftershocks have already been recorded; more are likely, and some could be felt.
The depth, location, and recorded seismic waves of the M4.9 earthquake suggest a source due to bending of the oceanic plate from the weight of the volcanoes in the Hawaiian Island chain, a common source for earthquakes in this area.
According to HVO Scientist-in-Charge Tina Neal, "HVO monitoring networks have not detected any significant changes in activity on Kīlauea or Mauna Loa Volcanoes due to the earthquake." The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has stated that there is no tsunami threat from this earthquake. Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense reports that Department of Public Works personnel will be checking roadways in the area for rockfalls.
For information on recent earthquakes in Hawaiʻi and eruption updates, visit the USGS HVO website, volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvo/earthquakes/.
Daily updates about ongoing eruptions, recent images and videos of summit and East Rift Zone volcanic activity, maps, and data about recent earthquakes in Hawaiʻi are posted at volcanoes.usgs.gov/observatories/hvo.

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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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

TUESDAY, NOV. 12

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13

THURSDAY, NOV. 14

‘Alalā Project Update, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30-8p.m., Volcano Art Center. $5 donation suggested. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkeley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, NOV. 15

Health Insurance Sign-Up, Friday, Nov. 15, 10a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 16

Small Group Kama‘oa Cleanup, Saturday, Nov. 16. Limited space available. Contact to be added to waitlist. 769-7629, mattieHWF@gmail.com, or kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com. wildhawaii.org

Art Fair, Saturday, Nov. 16, 8a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Hand-crafted and locally produced items on display and for sale by Ka‘ū artists and craftspeople. DeeDee, 785-1158

Fundraising Bazaar, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9a.m.-2p.m., Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church, Wai‘ōhinu. Free entry. Hot lunches and baked goods for sale. Vendor booths. Debbie Wong Yuen, 928-8039

Nature & Culture, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate hike, approx. 2 miles. nps.gov/havo

Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Nov. 16, 10a.m.-1p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Hula Kahiko - Kumu Ha‘amauliola Aiona with haumana (students) of Ke Kula ‘O Nāwahīokalani‘ōpu‘u Public Charter School, Saturday, Nov. 16, 10:30-11:30a.m., hula platf

orm near Volcano Art Center Gallery. Hula performance. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org

SUNDAY, NOV. 17

Hi‘iaka & Pele, Sunday, Nov. 17, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 18

Nature Wreath Registration, Nov. 18-25, program takes place Tuesday

, Nov. 26, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

ONGOING

Tūtū & Me Home Visiting Program is a free service to Pāhala families with keiki, birth to five years old. This caregiver support program offers those taking care of young keiki "a compassionate listening ear, helpful parenting tips and strategies, fun and exciting activities, and wonderful educational resources" from Tūtū & Me Traveling Preschool. Home visits are one hour in length, two to four times per month, for 12 to 15 visits. Snacks are provided. See pidfoundation.org or call Tata Compehos and Melody Espejo at 808-938-1088.

King Cab 2016 Nissan Frontier for Sale by Holy Rosary Church of Pāhala and the Sacred Heart Church of Nāʻālehu. The parishes are selling the truck to raise funds to benefit both churches. The truck is a great 6 cylinder, 2WD automobile. The churches are asking for $21K or best offer. Only cash or cashier's check will be accepted. Anyone interested should contact the parish secretary Tuesday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at 928-8208.

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Raising the minimum wage has been a long term struggle at the Hawaiʻi Legislature and a goal of HAPA and
Hawaiʻi Appleseed Center for Law & Economic Justice. Photo from hiappleseed.org

INCREASING MINIMUM WAGE IN HAWAIʻI is the goal of HAPA, the Hawaiʻi Alliance for Progressive Action, and Gary Hooser, its Executive Director and a former state Senator. Hooser released this editorial, published this week in the Honolulu Star Advertiser, to The Kaʻū Calendar:

Every Hawaiʻi legislator will receive a pay raise starting January 2021. Likewise, the governor, the lieutenant governor, all state judges, and most top executives in state government will receive substantial pay raises. Minimum wage workers will get nothing.
Legislators accepted their own pay raise with one hand, while blocking a raise for low-income workers with the other. Multiple hearings were held on House Bill 1191 during the 2019 session. Thousands of people from all walks of life testified in support. Many took off from work and others paid to fly in from the Neighbor Islands. Countless hours were spent, waiting patiently for their name to be called, to offer heartfelt and compelling testimony.
As a result, HB 1191 was amended to increase Hawaiʻi's minimum wage to $15 per hour (phased in), and ultimately made it to the final conference committee. But the state House then pulled the plug: The excuse given was that a provision intended to help business was 'possibly flawed' and there was not enough time remaining in the session to fix it.
Rather than pass a strong, reasonable minimum-wage measure phasing in a $15 per hour wage over several years, the joint House/Senate conference committee swallowed the poison pill provided to them by the business community and killed the entire measure.
Rather than pass the bill, they chose to pass the buck, doing nothing for another year. The consequences of this decision are devastating to Hawaiʻi's working families, who will never catch up on the lost year. Some stats: $17.50 per hour (approximately) is a "subsistence" wage for a single person without children. This means a person needs $17.50 an hour to simply survive, show numbers from the state Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. 48 percent of Hawaiʻi residents are either already living in poverty or one paycheck away from being on the streets, according to the ALICE Report. Hawaiʻi leads the nation in the number of houseless, per capita, says the U.S. Government Council on Homelessness.
With January 2020 opening the second year of the Legislature's biennium session, legislators could simply, if they so choose, pick up bills exactly where they were left off at the end of the 2019 session.

Image from livingwagehawaii.com

HB 1191 HD1 SD2, increasing Hawaiʻi's minimum wage to $15, remains stuck in conference committee purgatory. Upon the start of the 2020 session, with the concurrence of Senate/House leadership, the committee could schedule a hearing, amend the bill as needed, and pass it to the floor for a full vote. In two weeks, by the end of January, it could be done. There's no reason to force thousands of citizens to jump through the hoops of multiple hearings in the House and Senate, to take off work, arrange childcare, and incur the cost of traveling interisland - only to end up in exactly the same place.
Legislators have had many months since the close of the 2019 session to work out the kinks, to meet with stakeholders, staff, and the administration. They could, and should, have already come to agreement on a clean bill, one that can be passed promptly upon the opening of the 2020 Legislature.
Regarding potential negative economic impacts of raising the minimum wage, the data is unequivocal: There is no credible research correlating elevated levels of unemployment, bankruptcy, or inflation when wage increases are phased in gradually.
While not a living wage, or even a subsistence wage, $15 represents a strong step in the right direction. If tied to annual cost-of-living adjustments and future modest incremental increases, eventually a true living wage would be achieved.
Imagine that: A future where every Hawaiʻi resident who works a 40 hour week can afford a dry, safe place to live, three meals a day, and basic health care.
See more at Hawaiʻi Alliance for Progressive Action.

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EXPANDING COMMERCIAL LENDING FOR VETERANS is the goal of a bill introduced today by Sen. Mazie Hirono and Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK). The Veterans Members Business Loan Act, S. 2834, would further enable veteran business owners and entrepreneurs through local credit unions, by exempting current caps on member business lending. The bill covers loans made to veterans who served on active duty and were discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. There are approximately 11,000 veteran-owned businesses in Hawaiʻi.

The bill is the companion to similar legislation introduced earlier this year in the U.S. House of Representatives. The Hawaiʻi Credit Union League and the Credit Union National Association support the legislation, stated a release from Hirono.

Said Hirono, "Veteran business owners and entrepreneurs play an important role in Hawaiʻi's economy. The Veterans Members Business Loan Act will help to help make entrepreneurship an

option for more veterans as they transition back to civilian life, or give established veteran-owned businesses access to capital to grow and create more local jobs. I thank my colleague, Senator Sullivan, for working with me to introduce this important legislation as we mark Veterans and Military Families Month."

Said CUNA President/CEO Jim Nussle, "This bipartisan bill will make it easier for America's veterans to access credit and invest in their future and their communities. Credit unions proudly serve tens of millions of active duty and veteran members and fully support veteran entrepreneurs and their families."

Said HCUL President Dennis Tanimoto, "Hirono has been a long-time credit union member herself, as well as a strong supporter of credit unions and the role they play in their members' lives. She is also a member of the Senate Committee on Armed Services who recognizes the importance of the military in our national security and the economy. Timing of this bill she is cosponsoring is especially fitting since it coincides with Veterans Day. The bill helps to ensure veterans of access to affordable loans and other services from nonprofit financial cooperatives known as credit unions."

Last week, Hirono cosponsored a resolution to recognize National Veterans Small Business Week in the United States. The resolution passed the Senate by unanimous consent.

Said Sullivan, "Our veterans have sacrificed so much to serve our country and it is important that they are afforded every opportunity to succeed after leaving the military. Service members develop broad expertise across numerous areas while in the military, learning skills that can provide tremendous value to the economy. This bill eliminates common barriers of entry for veteran entrepreneurs to ensure they have access to the capital and resources they need to establish businesses and succeed in their ventures."

As a member of the U.S. Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, Hirono has been an advocate for veteran business owners and entrepreneurs. Earlier this year, Senator Hirono and Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD) reintroduced the Veterans Small Business Export Promotion Act, which would waive upfront guarantee fees for veterans participating in the U.S. Small Business Administration's export promotion programs.

Maria Miranda, representing
Kaʻū Coffee in Taiwan.

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MARIA MIRANDA, of Discovery Harbour, has been traveling throughout Taiwan in November promoting Kaʻū Coffee in stores called RT-Mart. From Taiwan, she reported that RT-Mart is called a hyper-market, a combination of food, bakery, and Costco-type offerings in stores across Asia.
She said she is learning some of the language, and enjoys the people and the culture. She will be attending the Taiwan International Coffee Show this weekend, along with other representatives of Hawaiʻi Coffee who traveled from Kaʻū. Her family's Miranda's Coffee will also be featured at the show.
Miranda served as the 2015 Miss Kaʻū Coffee.

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CHRISTMAS IN KAHUKU, presented by Friends of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, will be held Saturday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kahuku Unit of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Highway 11 at mile marker 70.5. This second annual event is free and open to the public. Music all day featuring the Shootz band playing rock & roll and motown, the Queen of Opera, D’Andrea Pelletier, and a surprise guest performing Hawaiian music.

Crafters from Kaʻū and beyond will sell locally made items: jewelry, pottery, holiday decorations, and more. Hawaiʻi Pacific Park's Association's Book store will be open and providing many unique Park-associated books and items.

Food will be available for purchase by Volcano House. Friend's will be selling shave ice, drinks, chips, and logo merchandise, with proceeds supporting park projects and educational programs.

Crafters may apply for this event – $20 booth fee – by visiting fhvnp.org, emailing admin@fhvnp.org, or calling (808) 985-7373. Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a non-profit 501(c) 3, operating under a formal philanthropic partnership agreement with Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

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THE WONDER OF CHRISTMAS, the 26th Annual Winter Concert Presented by Volcano Festival Chorus will be held Saturday, Dec. 14, 7:30 p.m. at KMC's Kilauea Theater. The 25-member chorus is under the direction of Roch Jones, with accompaniment by Melanie Oldfather. Also joining the chorus will be Cheryl Shine on flute.
This year's concert features both sacred and secular music. Many of the chorus' favorites are being performed. The Carols of Gathering by Joseph Martin will open the program, which is varied and includes a number of tunes with classical music themes, as well as variations on familiar Christmas carols. Popular carols Do You Hear What I Hear?, Have You Heard The News, and a medley of songs about angels titled Angels Sing Glory! are featured. The choir will perform some of their past favorites: African Alleluia, Ding, Dong! Merrily on High, and the politically incorrect version of Baby, It's Cold Outside. An audience sing-along is included.
The chorus, started 1994 by renowned music director Camille Almy, is now sponsored by the Kilauea Drama & Entertainment Network. This the 26th concert that is presented as a gift to the Volcano community as a mahalo for their support of KDEN.
Please attend this evening of holiday music in the cool air of Volcano. Admission is free; however, donations will be gratefully accepted. Park entrance fees may apply. For more information, call 982-7344.

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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13

THURSDAY, NOV. 14

‘Alalā Project Update, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30-8p.m., Volcano Art Center. $5 donation suggested. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkeley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, NOV. 15

Health Insurance Sign-Up, Friday, Nov. 15, 10a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 16

Small Group Kama‘oa Cleanup, Saturday, Nov. 16. Limited space available. Contact to be added to waitlist. 769-7629, mattieHWF@gmail.com, or kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com. wildhawaii.org

Art Fair, Saturday, Nov. 16, 8a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Hand-crafted and locally produced items on display and for sale by Ka‘ū artists and craftspeople. DeeDee, 785-1158

Fundraising Bazaar, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9a.m.-2p.m., Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church, Wai‘ōhinu. Free entry. Hot lunches and baked goods for sale. Vendor booths. Debbie Wong Yuen, 928-8039

Nature & Culture, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate hike, approx. 2 miles. nps.gov/havo

Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Nov. 16, 10a.m.-1p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SUNDAY, NOV. 17

Hi‘iaka & Pele, Sunday, Nov. 17, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 18

Nature Wreath Registration, Nov. 18-25, program takes place Tuesday, Nov. 26, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

TUESDAY, NOV. 19

ONGOING

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Izaiah Pilanca-Emmsley is up for Wedemeyer Award - Two-Way Player of the Year. The public can vote through Monday,
Nov. 25; see story below. Photo by Tim Wright, Kaʻū '77

HAWAIʻI ISLAND MADE THE TOP TEN IN U.S. VISITOR DESTINATIONS in Trip Advisor's rankings, released this week. This island came in tenth, with first through ninth: New York, Maui, Oʻahu, Las Vegas, Orlando, San Diego, Chicago, New Orleans, and San Francisco.

Hawaiʻi Island is described in the following way: "Life on the Big Island is a little bit slower… and locals like it that way. The natural beauty and ecological features of the island are a draw for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Test your chutzpah at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, home to the longest volcanic eruption in recorded history, or climb to the indescribably beautiful summit of Mauna Kea. At the end of the day, there's nothing more refreshing than a quivering plate of fresh poke, followed by a fruity shave ice."

The view to Honuʻapo is included in the description of Hawaiʻi Island, rated number ten destination in the entire
United States for 2019 Trip Advisor's Travelers' Choice Awards. Photo from Trip Advisor

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PROVIDE IMMEDIATE SUPPORT TO CONTROL AND ERADICATE THE INVASIVE QUEENSLAND LONGHORN BEETLE "before it devastates Hawai‘i Island" is the request from Sen. Brian Schatz to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue and U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt.

The invasive beetle, known by the official name Acalolepta aesthetica, is causing extensive damage to trees by burrowing through their trunks, and ultimately killing them. The insect poses a threat to Hawai‘i Island's growing number of cacao farmers, and endangers culturally important plants such as kukui and breadfruit trees. If the beetle spreads to the U.S.mainland, it would pose a direct threat to the $3.85 billion citrus industry, stated Schatz.

Said Schatz, "The threat to U.S.agriculture and Hawai‘i's environment justifies immediate, strong intervention from the federal government in order to prevent harm to the U.S.economy and federally managed lands in Hawai‘i – especially while the threat of A. aesthetica is still confined to a fairly limited area on Hawai‘i Island. Federal land managers should act in coordination with the state, county, and private landowners to implement the practices identified by researchers to contain, mitigate, and hopefully eradicate A. aesthetica."
Read the letter here.

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DEMAND FOR TECHNOLOGY ON HAWAIʻI FARMS IS INCREASING, according to recent report from U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service, in cooperation with Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture. The Hawaiʻi Farm Technology Use survey was conducted this Fall to "determine the types of technology farmers currently use and the number of specific items farmers wanted in the future."
This inaugural survey was mailed by NASS, then follow-up phone calls to a sample size of 1,750 farms were made. Farmers in all of Hawaiʻi's counties were sampled.
Results from the survey are as follows:
Physical Technology (hardware): 1,210 tablets in use; 1,512 more wanted. 634 satellite phones in use; 737 more wanted. 182 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in use; 872 more wanted. 1,516 video surveillance systems in use; 3,383 more wanted. 364 hand held sensors – to assess moisture, plant health, etc. – in use; 1,085 more wanted. 251 field sensors – to assess moisture, soil conditions, etc. – in use; 1,153 more wanted. 148 Global Positioning System-guided equipment in use; 414 more wanted. 69 GPS / RFID livestock tracking systems in use; 2,778 more wanted.
Physical Technology (hardware): 1,263 smart phone applications – to assess field conditions, yield information, etc. – in use; 1,208 more wanted. 1,945 computer applications – for budget, farm operations, etc. – is use; 1,357 more wanted. 322 third party service apps (i.e., fee for service plan) in use; 266 more wanted.
See nass.usda.gov/hi for more.

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Hilo High School JROTC Cadets present the
Colors, under Direction of Cadet CPT Travis
Puleo at KMC on Veterans Day.
Photo from KMC

KĪLAUEA MILITARY CAMP hosted Veterans Day Ceremonies on Monday with more than 300 people attending.
Hilo High School Junior ROTC Cadets presented the Colors, under direction of Cadet CPT Travis Puleo. D'Andrea Pelletier of Volcano sang the anthem; Charles Mapa, of Mountain View emceed; and Capt. Dylan Nonaka, Company Commander of the 81st EN CO in Hilo, gave the keynote address.

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Keynote speaker Capt. Dylan Nonaka,
Company Commander 87 1st EN, CO,
Hilo. Photo from KMC

SEN. MAZIE HIRONO ISSUED A NO VOTE FOR CHAD WOLF to serve as Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Strategy, Policy, and Plans. Following his confirmation, Wolf will serve as the acting Secretary of Homeland Security.
In a statement issued today, Hirono said her opposition of Wolf is seated in the fact that he would be the fifth person to lead the Department of Homeland Security – the country's third largest federal agency – in less than three years.
Said Hirono, "In an administration that has been marked by chaos and cruelty, Chad Wolf was an early author of several of the cruelest anti-immigrant policies we've seen to date. As the former chief of staff to then-Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, he proposed separating children from their parents at the border to deter the flow of migrants at the southern border. The more than 2,800 children who were used in this cruel way will bear the trauma of separation – likely for life.
"Chad Wolf was also an early architect of the Remain in Mexico policy. Under this policy, the Trump administration has forced nearly 50,000 migrants, including nearly 500 infants and 16,000 children, to wait in dangerous conditions in Mexico while their asylum claims are being processed in the United States. Again, the use of the cruelest methods to achieve their anti-immigrant ends.
"These policies do not reflect the values of our country. Chad Wolf's record shows that he will only further the chaos and cruelty of this administration, and he should not ascend to a position where he can do more harm to the most vulnerable among us."

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Vote through Monday, Nov. 25 for Izaiah Pilanca-Emmsley as
best Two-Way Player of the Year.
Photo by Tim Wright, Kaʻū '77

VOTE FOR IZAIAH "BOBBY" PILANCA-EMMSLEY FOR THE WEDEMEYER AWARD - Two-Way Player of the Year, at khon2.com/uncategorized/vote-2019-cover2-hawaii-high-school-football-awards/. Voting remains open through Monday, Nov. 25. The winners will be announced on Thanksgiving by the L.A. Rams. Pilanca-Emmsley is the only candidate from Kaʻū. The seventh annual Cover2 Hawaiʻi High School Football Awards candidates were selected by a panel of coaches and media members representing all divisions from Hawaiʻi Island, Oʻahu, Maui, and Kauaʻi. Fans can vote for six of the seven awards presented as can 19 coaches and media members. See khon2.com/uncategorized/vote-2019-cover2-hawaii-high-school-football-awards/for more.

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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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

THURSDAY, NOV. 14

‘Alalā Project Update, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30-8p.m., Volcano Art Center. $5 donation suggested. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org

Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, Nov. 14, 6:30p.m., United Methodist Church, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkeley Yoshida, 747-0197

FRIDAY, NOV. 15

Health Insurance Sign-Up, Friday, Nov. 15, 10a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 16

Small Group Kama‘oa Cleanup, Saturday, Nov. 16. Limited space available. Contact to be added to waitlist. 769-7629, mattieHWF@gmail.com, or kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com. wildhawaii.org

Art Fair, Saturday, Nov. 16, 8a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Hand-crafted and locally produced items on display and for sale by Ka‘ū artists and craftspeople. DeeDee, 785-1158

Fundraising Bazaar, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9a.m.-2p.m., Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church, Wai‘ōhinu. Free entry. Hot lunches and baked goods for sale. Vendor booths. Debbie Wong Yuen, 928-8039

Nature & Culture, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate hike, approx. 2 miles. nps.gov/havo

Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Nov. 16, 10a.m.-1p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SUNDAY, NOV. 17

Hi‘iaka & Pele, Sunday, Nov. 17, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 18

Nature Wreath Registration, Nov. 18-25, program takes place Tuesday, Nov. 26, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

TUESDAY, NOV. 19

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 20

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, Nov. 20, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Wednesday, Nov. 20, 6-7p.m., Nāʻālehu School Cafeteria. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free.

ONGOING

P&R Track & Field Practice Registration, through Wednesday, Nov. 20, Kahuku Park. Ages 6-14. Athletic shoes required. Program takes place Dec. 2 - Feb. 8, day and time TBA. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

Vendor Booth Space is Available for the Kamahalo Craft Fair. The 12th annual event will be held Thanksgiving weekend, Friday, Nov. 29, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 30, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cooper Center. Booths are open for crafters with quality homemade and homegrown products. Food vendors must prepare all food items in a certified kitchen and must have a Department of Health permit displayed prominently at their booth. Application online at thecoopercenter.org. Direct questions to 936-9705 or kilaueatutu@gmail.com.

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Just steps from the Volcano Golf Course's charred clubhouse, fairways and greens remain with endangered nēnē
geese and large ʻōhiʻa trees in bloom. This morning, a fire ravaged the clubhouse. Photo by Julia Neal

A FIRE BURNED VOLCANO GOLF COURSE's retail and administration area in the country club building. Hawaiʻi Fire Department Company 19 in Volcano received one 911 call around 4:50 a.m. from a neighbor, who reported hearing crackling. The east side of the 6,787 square foot building was fully engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived. The fire burned part way into the restaurant, which remains largely intact, with its fireplace. Changing rooms, golf carts, and a large retail storage area were saved. There were no injuries.

This morning, a fire ravaged the Volcano Golf Course clubhouse. Retail

and offices areas are ruined, leaving much of the storage and

some of the restaurant areas alone. Photo by Julia Neal

HFD reports that, due to the early call to 911, the Volcano Fire Department, with four personnel, was able to knock down the substantial fire and keep it under control until firefighters from Pāhala – 21 miles away, and Keaʻau – 23 miles away – could arrive. Water tankers from Pāhala and Pāhoa supplied water. The closest hydrant is in Mountain View.

HFD reports the losses at $315,000, with $872,725 saved.

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PUNA GEOTHERMAL VENTURE plans to reconnect to the the Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co. grid by next June and is suing its insurance companies for loss of business.
Big Island Video News reported today that Puna Geothermal's parent company Ormat has received $21.2 million from insurers but is seeking another $56.7 million for losses as of Sept. 20 of this year. The geothermal plant, which supplied 31 percent of the island's renewable energy needs, went offline in 2018, when lava flowed through its facility in Puna, covering up two geothermal wells. One well is ready for use, the other has been uncovered. In preparation for reopening, PGV built Pioneer Road over hardened lava to its plant. The road opened in April, and is accessible for PGV contractors and employees, and to about 250 landowners whose lots were cut off by the lava flow.
One delay could be renegotiation of the agreement between PGV and HELCO, and a request before the state Public Utilities Commission for construction of overhead transmission lines to connect the geothermal energy with the utility. According to PGV, the geothermal facility will be rebuilt with or without the insurance money.

Volcano Golf Course clubhouse, after this morning's fire. Photo by Julia Neal

See the coverage at bigisland
video news.com/2019/11/12/ormat-gives-puna-geothermal-update-in-latest-earnings-call/.

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TWO SPEAR FISHERMEN IN DISTRESS WERE RESCUED Wednesday afternoon by Hawaiʻi Police and Fire Departments. The 15 and 17 year old male youths were spotted about 400 yards offshore at Whittington Beach Park. HPD relocated to Honuʻapo Point, to be closer to the fishermen, where HPD personnel were able to make contact with the divers, who were only 100 yards from the point, and assist them to swim to shore. Once on land, both parties were assessed by emergency medical services; no injuries or need for EMS. The rescue involved ten personnel, including a helicopter.

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FIRE HYDRANT FLOW WILL BE TESTED by Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply in Wai‘ōhinu on Wednesday, Nov. 20 between 3 a.m. and 3 p.m. Areas affected will be Discovery Harbour customers along Kamā‘oa Road from Lewalani Street to Holokai Street; Hekau Street from Komo Hale Place to Kia Lua Street; and Kaulua Circle from Kilo Makani Place to Kai Ki Street, and any side roads and lanes.

Affected customers may experience slightly discolored or turbid water for several hours after the test is completed. Customers are asked to avoid washing clothes and to store a container of water for their drinking needs until service returns to normal. DWS apologizes for the temporary inconvenience and thanks customers and the general public for their patience and understanding. Unusual problems during or after the testing? Call Darren Okimoto, District Supervisor.

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Just a pivot from the volcano Golf Clubhouse Fire are red ʻōhiʻa blossoms.

Photo by Julia Neal

EXPANDING TELEHEALTH CARE is the goal of U.S. Sen Brian Schatz with his Creating Opportunities Now for Necessary and Effective Care Technologies for Health Act of 2019. The bipartisan legislation would expand telehealth services through Medicare, improve health outcomes, make it easier for patients to connect with their doctors, and help cut costs for patients and providers, according to Schatz:

According to studies, telehealth has been shown to improve care and patient satisfaction while reducing hospitalizations. The CONNECT for Health Act of 2019 builds on the progress made in recent years to increase the use of telehealth through Medicare. Specifically, the legislation would provide the Secretary of Health and Human Services with the authority to waive telehealth restrictions when necessary; remove geographic and originating site restrictions for services like mental health and emergency medical care; allow rural health clinics and other community-based health care centers to provide telehealth services; and require a study to explore more ways to expand telehealth services so that more people can access health care services in their own homes.

Schatz and the Senate telehealth working group first introduced the CONNECT for Health Act in 2016. Since then, a number of provisions have been signed into law or adopted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The updated version includes new key measures health care experts, providers, and patient advocates agree will help improve access to care and drive down costs, states the release.

Read the bill here. A summary of the bill is available here.

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MAUNA LOA VOLCANO is not erupting. The mauna has an Alert Level of ADVISORY, Aviation Color Code of YELLOW. Rates of deformation and seismicity have not changed significantly over the past week and remain above long-term background levels.
     During the past week, approximately 180 small-magnitude earthquakes (nearly all smaller than M2.0) were detected beneath the upper elevations of Mauna Loa. Most of the earthquakes occurred at shallow depths of less than 5 km (~3 miles) below sea level.
     Global Positioning System (GPS) and Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) measurements show continued summit inflation, consistent with magma supply to the volcano's shallow storage system.
     Readingsof fumarole temperature and gas concentrations at the Sulphur Cone monitoring site on the Southwest Rift Zone remain stable.
     For more information on current monitoring of Mauna Loa Volcano, see volcanoes.usgs.gov/volcanoes/mauna_loa/monitoring_summary.html.

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Pāhala Dojo, from left: Jake Villa, Eva Reddy, Colby Peralta, Jyzeiah Garcia, Jaylise Casuga, Reyna Reddy, Cheska
Aurelio, Josiah Reddy, Nikaela Aurelio, Sensei Francisco Villa. Photo from Sensei Villa

PĀHALA KARATE DOJO BROUGHT HOME MANY AWARDS from the 15th Annual International Karate League Karate Tournament Championship on Nov. 2. Held at Kekuaokalani Gymnasium in Kona, most students in Pāhala Dojo attended the tournament, and either participated or helped with judging. The Pāhala Dojo is one of 30 dojos in the IKL, a nonprofit 501 (c) 3 organization founded by Walter Nishioka.

Results for the Pāhala Dojo are:

Francisco Villa (Black Belt) placed second in Kobudo (Weapons) Masters Black Belt Division.

Cheska Aurelio (Blue Belt) placed first in Kata Blue Belt Division.

Josiah Reddy (Green Belt) placed third in Kata Junior Green Belt Division and placed second in Kobudo (weapons) in Junior (Novice) Division.

Reyna Reddy (Purple Belt) placed third in Kata Junior Purple Belt Division.

Nikaela Aurelio (Purple Belt) placed second in Kata Junior Purple Belt Division.

Pāhala Dojo trains every Tuesday and Friday at Pāhala Community Center. Class runs from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., with advanced students from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The class is open year round to new students. Call Sensei Villa for more information at 808-345-3036.

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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

FRIDAY, NOV. 15

Health Insurance Sign-Up, Friday, Nov. 15, 10a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SATURDAY, NOV. 16

Small Group Kama‘oa Cleanup, Saturday, Nov. 16. Limited space available. Contact to be added to waitlist. 769-7629, mattieHWF@gmail.com, or kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com. wildhawaii.org

Art Fair, Saturday, Nov. 16, 8a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Hand-crafted and locally produced items on display and for sale by Ka‘ū artists and craftspeople. DeeDee, 785-1158

Fundraising Bazaar, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9a.m.-2p.m., Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church, Wai‘ōhinu. Free entry. Hot lunches and baked goods for sale. Vendor booths. Debbie Wong Yuen, 928-8039

Nature & Culture, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate hike, approx. 2 miles. nps.gov/havo

Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Nov. 16, 10a.m.-1p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SUNDAY, NOV. 17

Hi‘iaka & Pele, Sunday, Nov. 17, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 18

Nature Wreath Registration, Nov. 18-25, program takes place Tuesday, Nov. 26, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

TUESDAY, NOV. 19

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 20

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, Nov. 20, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Wednesday, Nov. 20, 6-7p.m., Nāʻālehu School Cafeteria. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free.

THURSDAY, NOV. 21

Ka‘ū Food Basket, Thursday, Nov. 21, 11a.m.-noon, Pāhala Community Center. 928-3102

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Thursday, Nov. 21, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

ONGOING

West Hawai‘i Master Gardeners Program Accepting Applications through tomorrow, Friday, Nov. 15, cms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/whmgprogram/HOME/West-Hawaii. Classes take place Jan. 14 - April 17, 2020, every Tuesday, 9a.m.-noon. $200/person.

Vote for Izaiah "Bobby" Pilanca-Emmsley of rthe Wedemeyer Award - Two-Way Player of the Year, at khon2.com/uncategorized/vote-2019-cover2-hawaii-high-school-football-awards/. Voting remains open through Monday, Nov. 25. The winners will be announced on Thanksgiving by the L.A. Rams. Pilanca-Emmsley is the only candidate from Kaʻū. Fans can vote for six of the seven awards presented.

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An image of Lono held by Duane Pua at Kāwā. It was carried through Kāwā and Waiʻōhinu today, during the Makahiki
Lonaikaukahi Relay. See more on the annual event, below. Photo by Clarissa Pua

"MY GOD, SHE MAKES ME PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN," tweeted Sen. Brian Schatz, in response to testimony from former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine, and anti corruption expert, Marie Yovanovitch. During today's public hearings on the impeachment inquiry of Pres. Donald Trump before the U.S. House of Representatives, Yovanovitch was questioned about allegations that Trump fired her because he was afraid she would reveal his corruption in his dealings with the leader of Ukraine, the largest country in Europe. Yovanovitch said she was abruptly recalled from her post, was told "The president has lost confidence in you," and was subject to a campaign to "smear my reputation falsely."
During a phone call on July 25, Trump said Yovanovitch, is "going to go through some things." Yovanovitch said she felt threatened.
Said Schatz, "Americans are not going to be talked out of caring about the President extorting a foreign leader for his own benefit. Whatever a pundit or a politician may say, this is an historic moment and citizens get that.

Former U.S. Ambassador to

Ukraine

, Marie Yovanovitch.
Photo from nbcnews.com

"After watching Ambassador Yovanovitch I have hope that, if we win the next election, we will have a massive influx of talented and principled people racing into the State Department to re-establish the United States as the indispensable nation."

During Yovanovitch's testimony, Trump tweeted, "Everywhere Marie Yovanovitch went turned bad. She started off in Somalia. How did that go?"
Objecting to Trump's attack on the career foreign service officer with more than 30 years of service, House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rep. Adam Schiff asked Yovanovitch, "What effect do you think that has on other witnesses' willingness to come forward and expose wrongdoing?" She testified that she felt Trump's actions were "very intimidating."

Sen. Mazie Hirono tweeted, "To falsely malign, attack, and intimidate Amb. Yovanovitch while she testifies shows what a liar and a bully @realDonaldTrump is. A liar and a bully -- a terrifying combination in a president of the United States."

She also posted a "Hearing Haiku for Today:"

Cut through their shibai

Republicans have nothing

It's not a witch hunt.

Rep. Ed Case tweeted, "An open and transparent impeachment inquiry process is essential to broad public understanding and involvement."
Case said he was in a "critical hearing" this morning with the Appropriations Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on "failures in the (Veterans Affair's) internal accountability and whistleblower protection processes; these have to work to assure we deliver for our vets and ʻohana."

Rep. Ed Case in a hearing today on VA internal accountability and whistleblower protection. Photo from Cases' Twitter

Case said the House impeachment inquiry "is critical, but I also continue work every day on the many other issues facing our country and Hawaiʻi, including meetings today with the @citizensclimateHawaiʻi, @IBEW Hawaiʻi, and Waimea Hawaiian Homesteaders Association.

Another testifier, David Holmes, an aide to the top U.S. diplomat in Ukraine, stated he overheard Mr. Trump asking EU Ambassador Gordon Sondland about Ukrainian president Volodmyr Zelensky's willingness to investigate former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden and his son.

Schatz retweeted a post from CNN's Manu Raju: "I obtained a copy of David Holmes' opening statement, saying that he heard Trump telling Gordon Sondland: 'So, he's gonna do the investigation?' Sondland tells Trump: 'He's gonna do it' and that Zelensky will do 'anything you ask for.'"

Schatz also retweeted a post from Politico's Chief Washington Correspondent Ryan Lizza, "Two devastating details from Holmes's testimony, just read on air by CNN: 1. He personally heard Trump demand investigation of Biden. 2. Sondland said Trump didn't care about the war with Russiabecause he only cared about things that benefited him, like the Biden investigation."

The annual Makahiki Run around island.

Photo by

Clarissa Pua

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MAKAHIKI SEASON OPENED with the Lonaikaukahi Relay, Makahiki Pule ʻĀina Holo, traveling around the island this week. The annual event sees runners from different aphupuaʻa and districts carrying a carved staff with an image of akua, god, Lono – the Hawaiian deity of fertility and agriculture. The runners pass the image from one to another around the mokupuna, the island.

Makahiki is a Hawaiian Thanksgiving, following the harvest season. Participants often give thanks for the abundance Hawaiʻi offers its people, with prayers to Lono. The runners and those accompanying them often stop for ceremonies and food from welcoming groups of people.

The run follows the practice of Aliʻi processions that circled the island in the days of Hawaiian ancestors. Organizer Lanakila Manquail said he was inspired to revive the race because of a similar revival embraced by the Pitt River Nation of Northern California. Hawaiians have participated in their run and Pitt River Native Americans have joined the Makahiki run here.
Today's procession stopped in at Kāwā and Waiʻōhinu.

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AN INTERIM RULING FROM THE HAWAIʻI PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION WILL NOT ALLOW HELCO TO INCREASE RATES, according to a release from Hawaiʻi Electric Light. The utility filed a rate review in December 2018. HELCO seeks a 3.4 percent increase in revenues, or $13.4 million.
     In requesting the rate increase, the company cited continued improvements to the power grid to help integrate even more renewable resources while improving reliability. It also described extensive vegetation management work that is credited with reducing outages and their duration during storms.
     An interim decision is one step in the ratemaking process. The PUC will continue to review the rate request and other matters and will later issue a final decision that could result in a rate increase or decrease and other changes.
     If the final decision results in a rate decrease, the difference will be refunded to customers with interest. If a higher amount is approved, the increase will be applied going forward, not retroactively.
     The decision and order is available on the PUC's website, dms.puc.hawaii.gov/dms/. The docket is 2018-0368.

Sen. Mazie Hirono. Photo from Hirono's Twitter

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REAUTHORIZATION OF THE VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN ACT is being blocked from coming to the U.S. Senate floor by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. "McConnell's need to please the NRA," is influencing the decision, said Sen. Mazie Hirono this week. "He refuses to bring any gun safety legislation to the floor because he cares more about the gun lobby than the lives of women in our country," she said.

According to Wikipedia, the United States federal government shutdown of late 2018 and early 2019 caused the Violence Against Women Act to expire on Dec. 21, 2018. It was temporarily reauthorized, states Wikipedia, by a short-term spending bill on January 25, but expired again on February 15.

On April 4, the reauthorization act passed in the House by a vote of 263-158. All Democrats voted yes, joined by 33 Republicans.

The Act imposed "automatic and mandatory restitution" on those convicted of violence against women, and "allowed civil redress in cases prosecutors chose to leave un-prosecuted," according to Wikipedia. The Act also established the Office on Violence Against Women within the Department of Justice.

Sen. Brian Schatz also commented: "For 25 years, the Violence Against Women Act has provided support, shelter, and a new chance at life for women and children in Hawai‘i and across the country. This bill will strengthen vital services, improve prevention programs, and increase housing and financial assistance for survivors – ensuring that more Americans can live free from violence and abuse."

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KAʻŪ ART FAIR at Ocean View Community Center on Saturday, Nov. 16, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. will feature hand-crafted and locally produced items by Ka‘ū artists and craftspeople. Items will be on display and for sale. "Kaʻū Inspired, Come Celebrate Beauty; Meet Talented Kaʻū Artists; Buy great handmade, aesthetic stuff." 92-8924 Leilani Circle. 939-7033, or DeeDee, 785-1158.

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FUNDRAISING BAZAAR AT KAUAHAʻAO CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH in Waiʻōhinu happens tomorrow, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the church campus at the corner of Mamalahoa Hwy, Kamaoa Road, and Pinao Street, just above the Wong Yuen Store.

The annual event will feature Kalua Pig Bowls, Smoked Meat bowls, baked goods, produce, crafts, and more, sold by the church. Other vendors selling food, crafts, and more will also be on hand.

A huge book sale by the Friends of the Kaʻū Libraries will feature a large selection of art books, a collection of World War II books, many cookbooks, a collection on fighter planes, a collection on wines of the world, vitage books, antique books, Hawaiiana, novels, non-fiction, audio books, records, and DVDs. Plants, household items, and clothes round out their inventory for this sale. This event is a major fundraiser for FOKL. All proceeds go the Pāhala Public and School Library and the Nāʻālehu Public Library.
Entertainment will be provided by community groups Hannaha's Makana ‘Ohana Hālau, Thy Word Ministry Praise Team, and Gene Akamu.
For more, call Debbie at 928-8039.

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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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

SATURDAY, NOV. 16

Small Group Kama‘oa Cleanup, Saturday, Nov. 16. Limited space available. Contact to be added to waitlist. 769-7629, mattieHWF@gmail.com, or kahakai.cleanups@gmail.com. wildhawaii.org

Art Fair, Saturday, Nov. 16, 8a.m.-3p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Hand-crafted and locally produced items on display and for sale by Ka‘ū artists and craftspeople. DeeDee, 785-1158

Fundraising Bazaar, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9a.m.-2p.m., Kauaha‘ao Congregational Church, Wai‘ōhinu. Free entry. Hot lunches and baked goods for sale. Vendor booths. Debbie Wong Yuen, 928-8039

Nature & Culture, Saturday, Nov. 16, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate hike, approx. 2 miles. nps.gov/havo

Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Nov. 16, 10a.m.-1p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

SUNDAY, NOV. 17

Hi‘iaka & Pele, Sunday, Nov. 17, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 18

Nature Wreath Registration, Nov. 18-25, program takes place Tuesday, Nov. 26, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

TUESDAY, NOV. 19

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 20

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, Nov. 20, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Wednesday, Nov. 20, 6-7p.m., Nāʻālehu School Cafeteria. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free.

THURSDAY, NOV. 21

Ka‘ū Food Basket, Thursday, Nov. 21, 11a.m.-noon, Pāhala Community Center. 928-3102

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Thursday, Nov. 21, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

FRIDAY, NOV. 22

Dances of Universal Peace, Friday, Nov. 22, 6-7:30p.m., Methodist Church hall, across from Nā‘ālehu Post Office. Fun, easy to le

arn dances from many traditions, evoking peace. Donations welcome. No registration necessary. 939-9461, hualaniom2@yahoo.com

ONGOING

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On Nov. 8, Mayor Harry Kim, Sen. Russell Ruderman, and Sen. Kai Kahele attended Hawaiʻi Island's first ʻOhana Zone Project
blessing at Keolahou. Located in Hilo, the 20 units of permanent supportive housing are set to open to those in need in the Spring.
Hope Services will lead Keolahou with support from multiple community partners. Photo from Kim's Facebook

A PILOT PROGRAM TO DIRECT DRUG USERS AND OTHER LOWER LOW LEVEL OFFENDERS toward receiving places to live and social services began Thursday for Hawaiʻi Island.
On Oʻahu and Maui, this Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion project led to a "55 percent reduction in law enforcement citations, an increased feeling of wellness, and a decrease in meth use," according to KHON.com. LEAD is an alternative to the standard criminal justice system cycle: booking, detention, prosecution, conviction, then incarceration.

Mayor Harry Kim said, "I am excited about the implementation of the LEAD program on Hawaiʻi Island... I am so proud of our police officers and all others involved in this program,"KHON.com reported.

Gov. David Ige posted to Facebook that the launch of the LEAD program here "represents another step forward in our effort to resolve #homelessness. We're confident that LEAD will improve the well-being of participants on Hawaiʻi Island."

The pilot project for Hawaiʻi Island received $650,000 in ʻOhana Zone funding. Big Island Substance Abuse Council is in charge of operations, with support from HOPE Services Hawaiʻi, Going Home Hawaiʻi, and Bridge House. Hawaiʻi County Police Department and Prosecutor's Office are also involved.

According to the National Institute of Corrections, the LEAD program allows law enforcement to "redirect low-level offenders engaged in drug or prostitution activity to community-based services, instead of jail and prosecution." NIC states that, by diverting eligible individuals to services, LEAD's goal is to improve public safety and public order, and reduce criminal behavior. LEAD reduces recidivism by 22 percent, according to NIC. LEAD program began in 2011 in Seattleand has inspired similar programs in 34 states.

Dr. Hannah Preston-Pita, chief executive officer of BISAC, said, "We are really excited to begin the LEAD program on Hawaiʻi Island. With the lack of resources on our island, this program will definitely make a big impact. Our mayor, prosecuting attorney, chief of police and our local providers – Hope Services, Bridge House, and Going Home – have been ready since day one to add this program as a resource. BISAC and ADAD (the Hawaiʻi Department of Health's Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division) have been planning this program for the last couple of months and now it's finally here."

State legislators appropriated $30 million for at least one ʻOhana Zone site each on Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, and Kauaʻi, and at least three on Oʻahu. The law requires ʻOhana Zones be placed on state and county land, and that those spaces provide services to assist homeless individuals and families in accessing permanent housing.

Other ʻOhana Zones projects in Hawaiʻi County include an assessment center at the Na Kahua Hale o Ulu Wini housing complex, the Village 9 affordable housing project in Kona, and 20 units of permanent supportive housing at Keolahou emergency shelter.

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SUPPORT FOR DACA, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, came this week from Hawaiʻi's congressional delegation, which supports keeping the program in place. The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments on Tuesday after three appellate courts blocked Pres. Donald Trump's 2017 order to end DACA.
DACA is a 2012 Obama-era program that has let about 700,000 qualifying young adult DREAMers – who arrived in the

United States

as children, without legal documentation – to get health insurance, get a driver's license, education, jobs and more, without threat of deportation.

The court is examining whether Trump's order to end DACA is legal, not whether the Obama administration acted legally in creating the program. A decision is expected by June.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard said, "We must defend the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. We cannot break our promises, break up families or punish young people who were brought to this country as minors through no choice of their own. These are neighbors, our friends, our fellow Americans.

"DACA has transformed the lives and futures of hundreds of thousands of young people across our country. Because of DACA, DREAMers have been able to go to college, find a job, support their family, serve their country, and live free from the constant threat of deportation."

Sen. Mazie Hirono, with Jung Woo and Kris, who marched for 18 days, said Hirono, "to remind us their #HomeIsHere. Photo from Hirono's Facebook

Sen. Mazie Hirono said the Supreme Court heard arguments "on @realDonaldTrump's unlawful attempts to end #DACA." She thanked two marchers, Jung Woo and Kris, "who marched for 18 days to remind us their #HomeIsHere. I'm proud to stand with the 800,000+ Dreamers. We must keep the fight going."

During the hearing, Justice Sonia Sotomayor said more explanation was needed about ending DACA because ending it would be "a choice to destroy lives." Justice Neil Gorsuch said he didn't think it was the court's role to examine the decision to end the program.

Just before oral arguments, Trump tweeted: "Many of the people in DACA, no longer very young, are far from 'angels,' some are very tough, hardened criminals." To qualify for DACA status, applicants who are high school graduates or veterans must prove that they have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or more than three lesser crimes.

If the court allows DACA to end, most DREAMers will maintain a two-year protection until a new president takes office in 2021.

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STATEWIDE VOTING BY MAIL IS MOVING FORWARD, with preparations in all counties. In July, Gov. David Ige signed into law Act 136, which requires all elections in Hawaiʻi be conducted by mail, starting with the primary election next year. The decision was made partly because more than 46 percent of voters voted by mail in the 2014 primary election, according to the bill.

The voting by mail program will allow some exceptions, including providing voter service centers within each county for hand delivery of mail-in ballots. The centers will open for the ten days prior to and including election day, in Hilo and Kona, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday, to provide same-day voter registration; provide assistance to those with special needs; and other election services.

Each registered voter will receive a package with ballot, postage-paid identification envelope, secrecy sleeve, and instructions. No ballots will be forwarded by the U.S. Postal Service. Voters can expect ballots to arrive about 18 days before each election: Saturday, Aug. 8 for the primary and Tuesday, Nov. 3 for the general election, in 2020.

The plan is for registered voters to receive voter information cards by mail in January. Those who don't receive them can contact the county clerk's office or visit the state Office of Elections website. Anyone with a valid Hawaiʻi drivers license or state ID card can register or re-register online. Voters will be sent a signature verification card that must be signed and returned so the machines can verify their signatures.

Voting booths like these are a thing of the past for most, with voting by mail mandatory throughout the state starting
next year. Photo by Julia Neal

Hawaiʻi Tribune Herald reported Hawaiʻi County Clerk Jon Henricks saying that his staff will receive a high-speed ballot sorting machine by February. It will be kept in a secure, climate-controlled room. The machine is able to process up to 18,000 ballots an hour. It won't be connected to the internet, a feature that increases elections security. He said the machine will "expedite signature verification"– a time-consuming task – "without sacrificing accuracy.”

Following an informational briefing Wednesday, state Rep. Chris Lee, Chair, House Committee on Judiciary, said, "We wrote this bill to expand voting hours and access, and make it easier for everyone to vote. We hope to see voter participation rise this coming election."

Sen. Karl Rhoads, Chair, Senate Committee Judiciary, said, "Considering the magnitude of the change to our voting system, things are going well. I anticipate there will be hiccups and the Legislature, the Office of Elections and the county clerks will have to make adjustments as we roll out the new system."

Read Act 136: capitol.hawaii.gov/session2019/bills/GM1238_.PDF.

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CLOSURES OF RECYCLING AND SOLID WASTE TRANSFER STATIONS for the holiday season are as follows: Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 28; Christmas Day, Wednesday, Dec. 25; and New Year's Day, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020.

County of Hawaiʻi asks the public "for your kōkua. Please do not litter or illegally dump any materials at the closed Recycling and Solid Waste Transfer Stations."

Questions? Contact the Solid Waste Administrative Office at 961-8270.

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USGS HVO and Department of the Interior Office of Aviation staff prepare the sampling mechanism (on blue tarp) and

inspect the Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) just before it took off to collect water from the Halemaʻumaʻu crater lake.

Brightly-colored flagging tape tied to a cable attached to the UAS indicated depth as the sampling tool was lowered into

the water. The Oct. 26 UAS water collection flight was conducted with permission from and in coordination with

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. DOI-OAS photo by J. Adams

PONDERING THE POND: What Halema‘uma‘u Water Chemistry Tells Us is the subject of this week's Volcano Watch, written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates:

In the tradition of HVO founder Thomas Jaggar's innovative field methods, HVO recently used a cutting-edge technique to sample the Halema‘uma‘u water lake deep within Kīlauea's collapsed summit crater.

Crater lakes occur in many volcanoes around the world, including Poas (Costa Rica), Kawah Ijen (Indonesia), and Whakaari/White Island (New Zealand). But water in Halema‘uma‘u is a first in written history for Kīlauea, spurring interest both locally and globally.

The water has risen about 1 meter (1 yard) per week since first spotted on July 25. Initially, HVO was limited to remote observations of lake size, color, and surface temperature. As the lake grew, HVO began formulating a plan to sample the water. The lake's chemistry could reveal where the water was coming from and what it might mean for degassing and potential hazards at Kīlauea's summit.

After much discussion, HVO and other USGS scientists, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park staff, and helicopter and Unmanned or Unoccupied Aircraft Systems (UAS) pilots decided that a UAS was the best option for sampling and would be attempted.

Our opportunity came just after the lake's 3-month anniversary on October 26, when a USGS UAS successfully collected about 750 milliliters (25 ounces) of water from the lake. The sample was then shipped to mainland USGS laboratories for sophisticated analyses.

Water collected from the lake at the bottom of Halema‘uma‘u is prepared for laboratory analyses at the USGS California

Volcano Observatory. Results thus far reveal chemistry indicative of complex reactions between the water,

magmatic gases, and Kīlauea's basaltic rocks. USGS photo by S. Peek, October 2019

Results thus far indicate an acidic lake, with a pH of 4.2 (neutral is pH 7). Interestingly, most volcanic crater lakes have a pH of less than 3.5 (more acidic) or higher than 5 (less acidic), which places the Halema‘uma‘u lake's pH squarely in the uncommon middle range. However, that might result from the lake's young age and ongoing growth.

Mathematical modeling performed prior to the lake's appearance predicted that groundwater could flow into Halema‘uma‘u once the area had cooled enough after the 2008-2018 lava lake drained away. So, it was not entirely a surprise when water began to pond in the crater.

But, it's important to note that Halema‘uma‘u is where most summit sulfur dioxide (SO2) degassing takes place, and that SO2 dissolves readily in water.

As water flows underground toward the now-cooling crater, it dissolves SO2 rising from magma below. This leads to high concentrations of sulfate ions in the lake – 53,000 milligrams per liter – and a tendency towards a more acidic pH.

However, that acidic water reacts chemically with Kīlauea's basaltic rock, which makes the lake less acidic (raises the pH) and results in high concentrations of magnesium in the water. Basalt is classified as a mafic rock due to its large amount of magnesium and iron (Mg and Fe) in addition to other elements, such as sodium and potassium. The ratios of magnesium to sodium and of sodium to potassium in the lake water are similar to those ratios in Kīlauea's basalt, which is further evidence of chemical reactions between the water and rocks.

The hot, green pond dwarfs the drone that took the sample of water on Oct. 26. USGS photo

Calcium concentrations are not very high in the water sample; calcium is instead combining with sulfate ions to form solid minerals that precipitate from the water. Iron is also likely forming various minerals, contributing to the lake's yellowish colors.

Complex gas/rock reactions result in Kīlauea's lake water being chemically different from groundwater in a research well south of Halema‘uma‘u and from rainwater. Testing of oxygen and hydrogen that form the water molecules indicate that the lake water was originally rain that percolated into the subsurface where it became groundwater and the chemistry changed.

The Halemaʻumaʻu lake is still rising. The current pH reflects the balance between incoming groundwater and the degree of SO2 degassing from below. If the lake level stabilizes, or the amount of SO2 changes, the pH may also change. At Mount Pinatubo (Phillipines), after its cataclysmic 1991 eruption, a crater lake formed with a nearly-neutral pH but became more acidic with increased SO2 degassing and later volcanic activity.

Chemical analyses confirm that the Halemaʻumaʻu crater lake dissolves magmatic SO2. This implies that HVO's measured SO2 emission rates (about 30 tonnes per day) underestimate the total outgassed SO2 at Kīlauea. Without the lake, SO2 emissions from the summit would likely be higher.

This finding is important given that an increasing SO2 emission rate can indicate shallowing magma. Now, lake sulfate concentrations may be a new clue to changing conditions at Kīlauea. Accordingly, we hope that this first water sample is not our last.

On left, the drone lowered a rope with a container on it into the pond. The flags let operators judge how deep the sample container was in the water. On right, a thermal image from the sampling. USGS photos

Volcano Activity Updates

See Mauna Loa update on yesterday's blog.

Kīlauea Volcano is not erupting and its USGS Volcano Alert level remains at NORMAL. Monitoring data have shown no significant changes over the past week. Rates of earthquake activity or seismicity across the volcano remain largely steady. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are low at the summit and below detection limits at Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō and the lower East Rift Zone. The water pond at the bottom of Halemaʻumaʻu continues to slowly expand and deepen.
Ten earthquakes with three or more felt reports occurred in Hawaiʻi this past week: six quakes with magnitudes between 1.2 and 4.9 generally located 26 km (16 mi) west of Pepeʻekeo and at 30 km (19 mi) depth on Nov. 11 between 5:24 and 8:34 a.m.; two quakes with magnitudes 1.2 and 2.7 located 24-28 km (15-17 mi) east of Hōnaunau-Nāpōʻopoʻo at shallow depths on Nov. 9 at 6:09 and 1:39 a.m.; a magnitude-3.4 quake 10 km (6 mi) north of Waimea at 23 km (14 mi) depth on Nov. 9 at 5:48 a.m.; and a magnitude-2.8 quake 4 km (2 mi) southeast of Hōnaunau-Nāpōʻopoʻo at 10 km (6 mi) depth on Nov. 8 at 10:56 a.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 Kīlauea updates or 808-967-8866 for 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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

SUNDAY, NOV. 17

Hi‘iaka & Pele, Sunday, Nov. 17, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo

MONDAY, NOV. 18

Nature Wreath Registration, Nov. 18-25, program takes place Tuesday, Nov. 26, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

TUESDAY, NOV. 19

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 20

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, Nov. 20, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Wednesday, Nov. 20, 6-7p.m., Nāʻālehu School Cafeteria. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free.

THURSDAY, NOV. 21

Ka‘ū Food Basket, Thursday, Nov. 21, 11a.m.-noon, Pāhala Community Center. 928-3102

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Thursday, Nov. 21, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

FRIDAY, NOV. 22

SATURDAY, NOV. 23

Realms and Divisions, Saturday, Nov. 23, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult, two-mile, hike. Bring snack. nps.gov/havo/

Saturday Thanksgiving Dinner, Saturday, Nov. 23, 10a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. 939-7000, stjudeshawaii.org

Vote for Izaiah "Bobby" Pilanca-Emmsley of rthe Wedemeyer Award - Two-Way Player of the Year, at khon2.com/uncategorized/vote-2019-cover2-hawaii-high-school-football-awards/. Voting remains open through Monday, Nov. 25. The winners will be announced on Thanksgiving by the L.A. Rams. Pilanca-Emmsley is the only candidate from Kaʻū. Fans can vote for six of the seven awards presented.

Vendor Booth Space is Available for the Kamahalo Craft Fair. The 12th annual event will be held Thanksgiving weekend, Friday, Nov. 29, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 30, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cooper Center. Booths are open for crafters with quality homemade and homegrown products. Food vendors must prepare all food items in a certified kitchen and must have a Department of Health permit displayed prominently at their booth. Application online at thecoopercenter.org. Direct questions to 936-9705 or kilaueatutu@gmail.com.

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Miloliʻi-Kaʻū Girls Volleyball Club beat Keaukaha this weekend in a tournament that brought teams from
around the island to the new gym at Pāhala. See story below. Photo by Julia Neal

PRESCRIPTION DRUG TAKEBACK PROGRAM and onsite destruction of opioids will be discussed at an informational briefing on Thursday, Nov. 21, 10 a.m., at the State Capitol. The House Committee on Health and the Senate Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Health Committee will discuss Act 183, which allows for the safe prescription drug take back and disposal program being used by CVS Long's and 17 of their pharmacies statewide. The Longs in Pāhala does not take back prescription, but locations in Pāhoa, Kona, and Hilo do.

According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency: 200 Americans die every day from an opioid overdose; 2,000 Americans suffer an overdose every day; and from 1999 to 2017, more than 700,000 people have died from a drug overdose.

In an effort to combat the opioid epidemic, the focus of the briefing will be on examining the take-back and destruction programs already in place, including reviewing known issues; how to best support healthcare providers and health systems; best practices in partnering with law enforcement; encouraging consumers to make safe choices about opioids, while providing information on the devastation that comes with misuse.

Information from 2016, 2017, and 2018 on opioid effects. U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services infographic

Presentations will be from state Department of Health; DOH Behavioral Health Administrator, Eddie Mersereau; Mayor Trent Staggs of Riverton, Utah; David Schiller former DEA Agent, Denver, Colorado; the state Attorney General's Office; U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency; Honolulu Police Department; and CVS Longs Pharmacy.

No public testimony will be accepted. The briefing will end with discussion on plans of action to continue an efficient prescription drug take back and disposal program in Hawaiʻi.

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Herbicide sprayed along a county road. Photo from hpr.org

SUBMIT TESTIMONY ON THE PROPOSED HERBICIDE BAN in Hawaiʻi County parks and alongside roads to counciltestimony@hawaiicounty.gov before Wednesday, Nov. 20. Pono Hawaiʻi Initiative encourages testimony "regardless of whether you live in Hawaiʻi County or not. If you do live in Kona – or within driving distance – please show up!" urges HPI Executive Director Gary Hooser. The hearing starts at 9 a.m. on the 20th at Hawaiʻi County Council meeting, West Hawai‘i Civic Center, 74-5044 Ane Keohokālole Highway, Building A.

The bill would ban the use of herbicides by the county on all county lands, but would not ban herbicide use by those leasing county lands or Big Island Invasive Species Committee employees. Privately owned and state lands would not be affected by the ban. Invasive species eradication plans are also exempt from the ban.

Hooser states on his blog that a Vegetation Management Transition Committee will be established to monitor, educate, and assist county staff and the public about alternative weed management practices. He asks anyone with experience or knowledge in one of the following fields to consider applying to sit on the committee: Native Hawaiian plants, tropical horticulture, agroforestry, silviculture, organic landscape, permaculture, natural farming, or weed science. Hooser said applications will be taken at a later time, "but if you want to send a quick email to the County Council letting them know what skills you have to offer, it might let them and the departments know just how many resources we have on island to support the departments through this transition."

Proceeds from Knitwits offerings at the art fair go to
the Kaʻū Foodbank. Photo by Annie Bosted

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KAʻŪ ART FAIR at Ocean View Community Center on Saturday featured hand-crafted and locally produced items by Ka‘ū artists and craftspeople.
Fiber Artist Susan O'Malley presented a piece entitled Kanapuaʻa, named for the Hawaiian demi-god that changes shapes. She used the fibers from ginger, banana, and wauke – related to the fig, it's the principle plant used in the making of kapa, or tapa cloth. O'Malley, who is also a paper maker and a vegetable dyer, told The Kaʻū Calendar that her style is different from most tapa cloth makers, in that while the makers of the cloth avoid tears and holes, she uses them for artistic effect. "I can use their scraps", she explained. O'Malley, who lives in Ocean View, is a now retired after teaching first grade for 37 years.

Waiʻōhinu Aunty by Suzanne Dix Kaliko. Photo by Annie Bosted

Suzanne Dix Kaliko presented Waiʻōhinu Aunty, a canvas that was inspired by a musician at the Hula Festival in 2003. At the time, she was in the audience and sketched the ʻukuele player. Working from her sketch, she was able to produce the piece, which was offered for sale at the show.
A founding member of Ocean View's famous hand craft group, the Knitwits, Robyn Stratton displayed hand-woven cotton tea towels and a mandala sweater. The Knitwits are a group of women who meet weekly to create crafts by knitting, sewing, or weaving. Their huge variety of hand-made offerings – which includes blankets, scarves, hats, sweaters, and children's clothing – are sold to raise money for the Kaʻū Foodbank. Stratton told The Kaʻū Calendar that the Knitwits will also stock booths at the Arc of Kona's annual holiday bazaar on Saturday, Dec. 7 and at Holidays at Kahuku on Saturday, Dec. 14.

Fiber Artist Susan O'Malley presented a piece entitled Kanapuaʻa. Photo by Annie Bosted

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MILOLIʻI-KAʻŪ GIRLS VOLLEYBALL CLUB WON its tournament Saturday and Sunday against Keaukahaha Cuzins in the Sixteens Division. The islandwide volleyball competition drew a crowd that filled the parking lot of the community gym in Pāhala this weekend.
Miloliʻi-Kaʻū lost the first set, won the second, and won by 15 to 10 in the final playoff set.
The team is comprised of eight graders Kaelyn Shibuya, Silei Mareko-Ke and Leahi Kaupu; ninth graders Chelsea Velez, Jaydah Pilanca-Emmsely, Jessa Tamayo and Kla Hashimoto; and tenth grader Kailee Llanes-Kelekoa.

All eyes on the ball as Kaʻū scrambles and eventually wins its tournament against Keaukaha. Photo by Julia Neal

The tournament was a fundraiser to bring in money solely through donations and concessions at the gym. Money raised will help the Miloliʻi-Kaʻū girls travel next year to Oʻahu, Las Vegas, and Phoenix for competition. Anyone wanting to donate can call Team Treasurer Gennifer Sibuya at 808-209-7137. The next islandwide tournament for girls volleyball to held at the gym in Pāhala will be in January. Coaches are Landa Kuahuia and Darryl Shibuya.

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THANKSGIVING DAY BUFFET AT KĪLAUEA MILITARY CAMP will be held Thursday, Nov. 28, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.at Crater Rim Café in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Cost is $23.95 per adult; $13.95 per child 6 to 11 years of age; and free for children 5 and under. No reservations required.

The menu includes: corn chowder, tossed salad, roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, pineapple-honey glazed ham, glazed sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, steamed rice, and green bean casserole. Desserts include apple crisp, pumpkin squares, and and ice crean sundae bar. Each meal includes coffee, tea, juice, or a fountain drink.

KMC is open to all active and retired armed forces, reserves, National Guard, and other uniformed services; current and retired department of defense civilians, including Coast Guard civilians; and their dependents.

Call 967-8356 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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

MONDAY, NOV. 18

Nature Wreath Registration, Nov. 18-25, program takes place Tuesday, Nov. 26, 3-4p.m. Ages 6-14. 929-9113, hawaiicounty.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/recreation

TUESDAY, NOV. 19

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 20

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, Nov. 20, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Wednesday, Nov. 20, 6-7p.m., Nāʻālehu School Cafeteria. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free.

THURSDAY, NOV. 21

Ka‘ū Food Basket, Thursday, Nov. 21, 11a.m.-noon, Pāhala Community Center. 928-3102

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Thursday, Nov. 21, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

FRIDAY, NOV. 22

SATURDAY, NOV. 23

Realms and Divisions, Saturday, Nov. 23, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult, two-mile, hike. Bring snack. nps.gov/havo/

Saturday Thanksgiving Dinner, Saturday, Nov. 23, 10a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. 939-7000, stjudeshawaii.org

SUNDAY, NOV. 24

‘Ōhi‘a Lehua, Sunday, Nov. 24, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, easy one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo/

MONDAY, NOV. 25

ONGOING

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Last year's Floating Lantern Celebration in Medicine Pond at Punaluʻu Black Sands Beach honored family and friends.

Find out how to participate in this year's event, below. Photo by Michael Worthington

CRITICISM OF HAWAIʻI ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES FROM A $50 MILLION INVESTOR said in a letter that the utility has "failed to lead the transition away from oil-fired generation to renewable energy." Jeffrey Ubben, CEO of ValuAct Capital, the San Francisco hedge fund that invested into HEI, sent the letter to the HEI board. HEI Chairman Jeff Watanabe reacted, calling Ubben's comments "a misguided, factually inaccurate attack on HEI, Hawaiian Electric and our commitment to renewable energy, the state of Hawaiʻi, and our valued customers and investors," according to an article in Pacific Business News.
Today, PBN reported that Mina

Morita - an energy consultant, former Public Utilities Commission Chair, and former state Senator - defended HEI. She said that ValuAct Capital "is not paying attention to the reality of what it will take to attain a 100 percent renewable future when it falls back on mantras like '100 percent renewables' or 'no fossil fuels.' These soundbites, or insisting on a ValuAct-approved CEO, are not at all helpful and will not get us to Hawaiʻi's lofty energy objectives any sooner." She wrote that Ubben's assessment of Hawaiʻi's utility sector is "simplistic."

Morita objected to Ubben's comment that HEI is at a point where management could "be driven either by more of the same inertia or, alternatively, by innovative, forward-looking thinking and action."

Mina Morita.
Photo from hawaiiwire.org

She told PBN in an email that she is concerned with HEI's plans, saying that community input is missing, that there has been "an overemphasis" on power generation, "focusing on 100 percent renewable rather than what needs to be done to modernize the entire system cost-effectively." Morita stated that Hawaiʻi and HEI face difficulties in achieving the state's renewable energy goals without liquified natural gas as a bridge fuel. She also stated that, without NextEra Energy's proposed $4.3 billion acquisition of HECO, the utilities were left with "few options to control costs… necessary to enable a distributed energy grid. Hawaiʻi's energy transformation is a complex and uncertain transition during a time of rapidly advancing technologies… The only thing that I am sure of is Hawaiʻi's energy transformation is a 'kakou' thing — which means that one company or its regulator cannot do it alone."
HEI is the parent company of Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co., which serves this island.

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A house in the golf course community at Volcano was likely set afire, according to police investigators.
The furniture was stacked and burned inside the home on Pukeawe Circle. Photo from Redfin real estate site

A SUSPECTED CASE OF ARSON IN THE VOLCANO GOLF COURSE COMMUNITY Sunday night is under investigation by Hawaiʻi Police Department. Hawaiʻi Fire Department received a call at 7:21 p.m. from guests scheduled to stay at the licensed Short Term Vacation Rental home at 99-2056 Pukeawe Circle. No injuries were reported.

The first responder, who arrived around 7:48 p.m., noted that all the windows were covered in white paint. When firefighters entered the home, they found "most of the household furniture was found piled up and in flames." Firefighters extinguished the blaze by 8 p.m. They ventilated the home for smoke and combustable gases.

HFD reported that "various clues" indicated arson. HPD and HFD investigators remained on scene after the fire was out, collecting evidence for further processing.

Drywall, furniture, and other damage was estimated to be about $57,000. The home's value is estimated to be about $357,000 by real estate companies that are showing it online.

Interior of the home in Volcano that vacationers reported on fire when they arrived. Photo from Redfin real estate site

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SEN. KAI KAHELE EARNED THE ENDORSEMENT of former Kauaʻi Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Jr. in his campaign to represent Kaʻ

ū and the rest of Hawaiʻi's 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Kahele is running for the seat Rep. Tulsi Gabbard will be giving up at the end of her term, in order to focus on the presidential race. Carvalho issued the following statement today:

"From his service to our country as a lieutenant colonel in the Hawaiʻi Air National Guard, through his time as a state senator for Hilo, I have great confidence in both his dedication to our island communities and his leadership capacity...

"We will be facing serious challenges in the years ahead. From affordable housing to climate resilience, there are many community issues that will need federal support and funding. We need someone who will help bring in U.S. Housing and Urban Development funding so we can build more homes for our kūpuna and young families. We need someone who will help us secure Federal Highways money and other funding to make our communities more resilient to sea-level rise and severe storm events. We need someone who can help direct U.S. Department of Agriculture funding to our local farmers and food-producing lands."

Carvalho served for ten years as the Mayor of Kauaʻi County, from 2008 to 2018.

Former Kauaʻi Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Jr. with Sen. Kai Kahele.
Photo from Kahele

Said Kahele, "I am grateful for Mayor Carvalho's endorsement… He is an experienced leader whose reach extends beyond Kauaʻi. Mayor Carvalho is respected for his dedication and service throughout our great State of Hawaiʻi. I look forward to working with him in the coming months as we continue to grow our grassroots campaign in every community and across every island in the state."

Former Hawaiʻi Governors John Waiheʻe, Ben Cayetano and Neil Abercrombie serve as Honorary Co-Chairs of the Kahele for Congress Campaign Committee, which raised over $600,000 since launching in January 2019.

The 2nd Congressional District encompasses Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, Kahoʻolawe, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, Kauaʻi, Niʻihau and the rural parts of Oʻahu, including Waimānalo, Kailua, Kāneʻohe, the North Shore, and the Leeward coast.

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NĀ‘ĀLEHU SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR kicks off tomorrow at Nā‘ālehu Elementary School Library. The public is invited to come check out books and other items, and support the school. Public hours are: Tuesday, Nov. 19, 7:30-8a.m. and 2:07-3:30p.m.; Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2:07-7p.m.; Thursday, Nov. 21, 7:30a.m.-3:30-p.m.; and Friday, Nov. 22, 7:30a.m.-2p.m.

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KAʻŪ RURAL HEALTH ASSOCIATIONS ANNUAL FLOATING LANTERN CELEBRATION, "Honoring Past, Present, & Future Generations," will be held Saturday, Nov. 30, from 3 p.m.to 7 p.m. at Punaluʻu Black Sands Beach Park. Pre-registration to participate is required, by Monday, Nov. 25. Funds for lanterns, photos, and t-shirts go toward scholarships.

The ninth annual event is sponsored by Maile David, Kaʻū's County Council member, Hui Mālama Ola Nā Oʻiwi, and Kaʻū Hospital & Rural Health Clinic.

For more info, contact 808-928-0101.

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A SPIKE IN UTILITY SCAM CALLS AND PHISHING during the holiday season is expected by Hawaiʻi utilities. In a joint press release, the Hawaiian Electric Companies, Hawaiian Telcom, Hawaiʻi Gas, Board of Water Supply, and Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative, along with the state Office of Consumer Protection and Honolulu Police Department, states they are working to combat scammers who target utility customers, as part of national Utility Scam Awareness Week.

The joint release warns customers to remain vigilant against "thieves and scam artists posing as utility workers and bill collectors. Customers need to be alert and recognize scams, especially when criminals threaten to disconnect service unless a payment is made.

Stephen Levins, executive director of the state of Hawaiʻi Office of Consumer Protection, said, "Utility scammers can sound convincing on the phone and will say anything to trick consumers into making payments. To protect themselves, consumers should never wire money, purchase gift cards, or give out personal or financial information to anyone who initiates contact."

The utilities state that scammers are targeting customers who rely on vital services such as electricity, water, gas, and telecommunications. Although there have been fewer reports of customers paying money to scammers, "customers cannot let their guard down."

The utilities offer the following tips:

If the caller says your utility account is delinquent and threatens to shut off service

immediately unless payment is made, it's a scam.

If someone calls from a utility demanding immediate payment over the phone, via money transfer, prepaid debit card, or by Bitcoin, it's a scam.

If the caller asks to meet the customer in person to pick up a payment, it's a scam.

If you receive an email from your utility urging you to click on an embedded link or

attachment to resolve a utility issue or pay a bill, think before you click. It's likely a scam.

If a utility worker shows up at your home or place of business, ensure that person is

wearing official attire with a logo, driving a properly labeled vehicle, and carrying company identification. When in doubt, call the utility's customer service center.

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TEAM GARY'S BEST FROM UNIVERSITY OF HAWAIʻI took home the $4,000 top prize over the weekend at the Hawaiʻi Annual Code Challenge, sponsored by the state Office of Energy, Hawaiian Electric Company and Hawai`i Pacific University. The team created a dashboard to display the health of electric vehicle charging stations, which are operated remotely. The program uses metrics developed from charging data analysis.

Gov. David Ige said, "I'm proud that Hawaiʻi is home to a very talented group of IT developers as demonstrated at the HACC. They created imaginative solutions to some of our state's pressing challenges."

Winners of this year's HACC, Team Gary's Best. Photo from Ige's office

Doug Murdock, of Hawaiʻi Pacific University's Office of Enterprise Technology Services, said, "It was exciting to see all of the innovative solutions from the participants. We will work with the teams to develop them further and implement (them) in state departments."

HPU President John Gotanda said the university was proud to serve with the state to present the HACC, "representing our university's commitment to embracing the concept and the pursuit of innovation to advance our state. At HPU, our approach to education is to ensure experiential, hands-on learning opportunities for our students, and the structure of the HACC program is in keeping with our academic vision."

The fourth year of the competition started with 29 teams; 15 moved on to the presentation phase of the competition.

The goal of HACC is to generated proof-of-concept coding by students, amateurs, and professionals, to benefit community and state agencies. That coding's focus is on solutions for community resilience, professional development, local job creation, and building local businesses.

Several of the winning teams focused on electric charging stations,
like this one in Punaluʻu. Photo from HELCO

The HACC breaks the mold of a traditional hackathon, which typically takes place over a single day or weekend, said a statement from the governor. The HACC provides an expanded four-week timeframe, meant to encourage interaction between community teams and state department personnel. This extended time "ultimately result(s) in sustainable solutions that are appropriately matched with technologies and platforms in use or being considered by the state." The HACC is nationally recognized with the State IT Innovation of the Year award by StateScoop, the leading government IT media company in the nation's capital.

Team Kulu took second place, with a green loan portal. Third place was taken by Team Area 51 Raid Squad, with another electric vehicle charging station analysis. The top two high school teams tied - Team Netjxrk of Waipahu High, with a sustainability education code, and Team SHC of Mililani High, with a third electric vehicle charging station analysis.

Sponsors of the event included Hawaiian Airlines, Kaiser Permanente, Transform Hawaiʻi Government, AT&T, Hawaiʻi Information Consortium, Unisys, Salesforce-Carahsoft, Verizon, HawaiiData Collaborative, revacomm, and DRFortress. Community partners include Hawaiʻi Green Growth, Hawaiʻi Technology Development Corporation, PacificCenterfor Advanced Technology Training, Olelo, Sultan Ventures, and XLR8HI.

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Treating little fire ants at Steam Vents. Photo from NPS by Janice Wei

STEAM VENTS PARKING LOT WILL BE CLOSED TOMORROW, Tuesday, Nov. 19 from 8 a.m. to noon for little fire ant treatment in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Only the Steam Vents parking lot and the trail from the parking lot to Wahinekapu (Steaming Bluff) in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park will be closed; Wahinekapu and Crater Rim Trail will remain open. If it rains, a backup date is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 20 at the same time.

LFA detections have decreased by at least 99 percent at Steam Vents since the park began treating the area in February, stated the Park. In 2018, LFA were abundant and readily observed on vegetation and along the edge of the parking lot. In September, park pest control workers found LFA on just 0.1 percent of bait stations.

Pest control workers will continue to treat Steam Vents every four to six weeks and the park will announce closures in news releases, at nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes, and via social media. The goal is to completely exterminate the ants from the area. Visitors can help by checking their gear and vehicles for LFA before coming to the park.

This will be the seventh treatment cycle at Steam Vents. For more information on LFA, how to control them and how to prevent spreading them, visit littlefireants.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.

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.

See monthly and weekly Kaʻū and Volcano Events, Meetings, Entertainment, Exercise, and Meditation at kaucalendar.com.

UPCOMING

TUESDAY, NOV. 19

Ocean View Community Association Board of Directors Mtg., Wednesday, Nov. 20, 12:30-1:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Wednesday, Nov. 20, 6-7p.m., Nāʻālehu School Cafeteria. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free.

THURSDAY, NOV. 21

Ka‘ū Food Basket, Thursday, Nov. 21, 11a.m.-noon, Pāhala Community Center. 928-3102

Nāʻālehu School Family Reading Night, Thursday, Nov. 21, 6-7p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Family reading, make & take activities, and snacks provided. Free. 939-7033, ovcahi.org

FRIDAY, NOV. 22

SATURDAY, NOV. 23

Realms and Divisions, Saturday, Nov. 23, 9:30-11:30a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult, two-mile, hike. Bring snack. nps.gov/havo/

Saturday Thanksgiving Dinner, Saturday, Nov. 23, 10a.m., St. Jude's Episcopal Church, Ocean View. 939-7000, stjudeshawaii.org

SUNDAY, NOV. 24

‘Ōhi‘a Lehua, Sunday, Nov. 24, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, easy one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo/

MONDAY, NOV. 25

ONGOING

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