Hannah's Makana ʻOhana Hālau performed at Kauahaʻao Congregational Church's annual fundraiser bazaar on Saturday. See more photos of the festivities below. Photo by Debbie Wong Yuen
A PERMANENT FEDERAL LAND AND WATER CONSERVATION FUND is the goal of Bill S. 1081 backed by Sen. Mazie Hirono. The new Land and Water Conservation Fund Permanent Funding Act would permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which, over the last 50 years, provided nearly $250 million to protect and conserve lands in Hawaiʻi. It funded $12 million to expand Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park through the Island Forests at Risk program in fiscal years 2016 through 2018.
Elizabeth Fien, CEO of Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Hirono said the Land and Water Conservation Fund has helped protect "some of our most cherished public spaces – including Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge, and the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail." She said the legislation takes a "meaningful step toward ensuring that public lands in Hawaiʻi are protected and maintained for future generations." Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park CEO Elizabeth Fien said, "Our national parks and public lands generate billions of dollars for local economies in tourism dollars, jobs, and tax revenue. However, without funding, our national treasures, like anything else, will eventually fall apart. The infrastructure of our National Parks is in great need of repair, and philanthropic dollars are necessary to fund programs and park projects, not maintaining sewers, gas lines, bridges, etc."
Ulalia Woodside, Executive Director of The Nature Conservancy, Hawaiʻi.
Fien also pointed to the proposal for the Restore Our Parks Act, Senate Bill 500, to address the estimated $165 million deferred maintenance backlog in Hawaiʻi's National Parks. Both bills cleared the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and can now be considered by the full Senate. Fein said it is "a smart investment, as it will not only fund the maintenance needs of our parks but also create additional infrastructure-related jobs, as well as preserve visitor access and resources."
Ulalia Woodside, Executive Director of The Nature Conservancy of Hawaiʻi, said, "Despite the many benefits that the Land and Water Conservation Fund has provided in protecting some of Hawaiʻi's most sensitive lands over the past 54 years, it has suffered from chronic underfunding. At a time when our public lands are facing a myriad of threats, including land use and climate change, S. 1081 is necessary to ensure that the full capabilities of the LWCF are provided to addressing the urgent needs of these lands and waters.
Lea Hong, Hawaiian Islands State Director for the Trust for Public Land.
Lea Hong, Hawaiian Islands State Director for the Trust for Public Land, said, "LWCF is integral to preserving, protecting, and creating exceptional parks and open space. Without funding from LWCF we would not have been able to protect some of Hawaiʻi's most special places." She said she looks forward to working with Hirono and her team "on ensuring everyone in Hawaiʻi can enjoy our beloved ʻāina."
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HAWAIʻI INMATES SENT TO THE MAINLAND to prison need a halfway house to recover and assimilate when they return to Hawaiʻi, according to a plan to reopen a Residential Reentry Center. Sen. Mazie Hirono secured a commitment from Kathleen Hawk Sawyer, Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons, to provide regular updates about the status of efforts to reopen a federal Residential Reentry Center in Hawaiʻi. During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Sawyer affirmed that BOP's timeline to reopen a Residential Recovery Center is within the next several months. The state's only RRC, Mahoney Hale, closed on Sept. 30, after providing transitional services and programs for nearly three decades. Those services and programs included employment counseling, case management, and skills training to help men and women successfully reenter the community after serving federal prison sentences. Mahoney Hale's closure had a significant impact, not only on those reentering the community who will no longer receive these critical transitional services in Hawaiʻi, but also on other community members, said Hirono. The nonprofit Touch A Heart, for example, has frequently worked with Mahoney Hale to recruit interns for its culinary vocational program.
Gene Akamu played for the crowd on Saturday
at the annual Kauahaʻao Congregational
Church fundraiser bazaar.
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Friends of the Kaʻū Libraries at the bazaar offered a huge selection of items, to raise money for Pāhala Public and School Library, and the Nāʻālehu Public Library.
KAUAHAʻAO CHURCH'S annual Fundraising Bazaar on Saturday, Nov. 16th "was a great day, with many people attending until the rain came and shut all the vendors and entertainment down quickly," said Kahu Debbie Wong Yuen. More than four dozen vendors participated. Entertainment came from Hannah's Makana ʻOhana Hālau, Thy Word Ministry Praise Team, and Gene Akamu.
Thy Word Ministry Praise Team entertained the crowd on Saturday.
Vendors included Friends of the Kaʻū Libraries, who offered a huge mostly-books sale, with a large selection of art books, cookbooks, vintage books, antique books, Hawaiiana, novels, non-fiction, a collection of World War II books, a collection on fighter planes, a collection on wines of the world, audio books, records, DVDs, plants, household items, and clothes. All proceeds go to the Pāhala Public and School Library, and the Nāʻālehu Public Library. The Waiʻōhinu church's grounds hosted at total of 24 vendors offering food, crafts, and more.
Before the rains came, the church bazaar had a good start with 24 vendors, music, and dance. Photos by Debbie Wong Yuen
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FLASH FLOOD WARNING FOR MANY AREAS OF KAʻŪ until , warns the National Weather Service. Highway 11 is closed at Kāwā Flats as of Forecasters predict that Nāʻālehu, Pāhala, WoodValley, Kāwā Flats, Punaluʻu Beach, DiscoveryHarbour, and Waiʻōhinu may all expect flash flooding, with two to three inches of heavy rain per hour. The public is warned to expect flooding in drainages, streams, rivers, roads, properties, and other low-lying areas. Public road closures are possible in some areas. Landslides are possible in steep terrain.
The entire island of Hawaiʻi is currently under a Flash Flood Watch until tomorrow.
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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.
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.
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
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
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
ONGOING
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. 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, , and Saturday, Nov. 30, 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.
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.
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Tonight's fifth democratic presidential debate. Kaʻū's Rep. Gabbard is second from left, in white. Photo from MSNBC
KAʻŪ'S CONGRESSWOMAN TULSI GABBARD TOOK ON PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES KAMALA HARRIS AND PETE BUTTIGIEG tonight. She said she wants to rebuild the Democratic Party. She was one of ten candidates for President of the United States in the fifth debate hosted by the Democratic Party in Atlanta. Contenders on the stage were: 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; and Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar.
"What is the rot you see in the Democratic Party?" Gabbard responded: "Our Democratic Party, unfortunately, is not the party that is of, by, and for the people. It is a party that has been and continues to be influenced by the foreign policy establishment in Washington, represented by Hillary Clinton and others' foreign policy, by the military industrial complex, and other greedy corporate interests. "I'm running for president to be the Democratic nominee that rebuilds our Democratic Party, takes it out of their hands, and truly puts it in the hands of the people of this country. A party that actually hears the voices of Americans who are struggling all across this country and puts it in the hands of veterans and fellow Americans who are calling for an end to this ongoing Bush-Clinton-Trump foreign policy doctrine of regime change wars, overthrowing dictators in other countries, needlessly sending my brothers and sisters in uniform into harm's way to fight in wars that actually undermine our national security and have cost us thousands of American lives.
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard
"These are wars that have cost us, as American taxpayers, trillions of dollars since 9/11 alone; dollars that have come out of our pockets, out of our hospitals, out of our schools, out of our infrastructure needs. As president, I will end this foreign policy, end these regime change wars, work to end this new cold war and arms race, and instead invest our hard-earned taxpayer dollars actually into serving the needs of the American people right here at home. Sen. Kamala Harris attacked Gabbard, saying, "I think that it's unfortunate that we have someone on this stage who is attempting to be the Democratic nominee for president of the United States, who during the Obama administration spent four years full time on Fox News criticizing President Obama."
Gabbard responded: "That's ridiculous, Senator Harris. That's ridiculous." Harris came back, claiming Gabbard, "has spent full time criticizing people on this stage as affiliated with the Democratic Party, when Donald Trump was elected, not even sworn in, buddied up to Steve Bannon to get a meeting with Donald Trump in the Trump Tower, fails to call a war criminal by what he is as a war criminal, and then spends full time during the course of this campaign, again, criticizing the Democratic Party." Gabbard contended that "What Senator Harris is doing is unfortunately continuing to traffic in lies and smears and innuendos because she cannot challenge the substance of the argument that I'm making, the leadership and the change that I'm seeking to bring in our foreign policy, which only makes me guess that she will, as president, continue the status quo, continue the Bush-Clinton-Trump foreign policy of regime change wars, which is deeply destructive.
"This is personal to me because I served in Iraq. I left my seat in the state legislature in Hawaiʻi, volunteered to deploy to Iraq where I served in the medical unit where, every single day, I saw the terribly high human cost of war. I take very seriously the responsibility that the president has to serve as commander-in-chief, to lead our armed forces, and to make sure always -- no, I'm not going to put party interests first. I will put the interests of the American people above all else."
Mayor Pete Buttigieg and Gabbard squabbled over foreign policy and military experience: Gabbard said to Buttigieg, "You'll agree that the service that we both have provided to our country as veterans by itself does not qualify us to serve as commander-in-chief. I think the most recent example of your inexperience in national security and foreign policy came from your recent careless statement about how you, as president, would be willing to send our troops to Mexico to fight the cartels."
Sen. Kamala Harris
Said Gabbard, "As commander-in-chief, leader of our armed forces, I bring extensive experience, serving for seven years in Congress, on the Foreign Affairs Committee, on the Armed Services Committee, on the Homeland Security Committee, meeting with leaders of countries around the world, working with military commanders of different commands, dealing with high-level national security briefings, understanding what's necessary, the preparation that I've gotten to walk in on day one, to serve as commander-in-chief."
Buttigieg responded, saying that "it's par for the course in Washington to take remarks out of context," and calling Gabbard's statement that he would send troops to Mexico "outlandish even by the standards of today's politics."
Gabbard replied, "Are you saying that you didn't say that?"
Buttigieg said, " I was talking about U.S.-Mexico cooperation. We've been doing security cooperation with Mexico for years, with law enforcement cooperation and a military relationship that could continue to be developed with training relationships, for example. Do you seriously think anybody on this stage is proposing invading Mexico?"
Gabbard responded, "That's not what I said."
He went further: "I'm talking about building up alliances. And if your question is about experience, let's also talk about judgment. One of the foreign leaders you mentioned meeting was Bashar al-Assad. I have in my experience, such as it is, whether you think it counts or not since it wasn't accumulated in Washington, enough judgment that I would not have sat down with a murderous dictator like that."
Gabbard went back to Mexico: "You were asked directly whether you would send our troops to Mexico to fight cartels and your answer was 'yes.' The fact-checkers can check this out... But your point about judgment is absolutely correct. Our commander-in-chief does need to have good judgment. And what you've just pointed out is that you would lack the courage to meet with both adversaries and friends to ensure the peace and national security of our nation. I take the example of those leaders who have come before us, leaders like JFK, who met with Khrushchev, like Roosevelt, who met with Stalin."
Buttigieg said Gabbard was "Like Donald Trump who met with Kim." Gabbard disagreed: "Like Reagan, who met and worked with Gorbachev. These issues of national security are incredibly important. I will meet with and do what is necessary to make sure that no more of our brothers and sisters in uniform are needlessly sent into harm's way fighting regime change wars that undermine our national security. I'll bring real leadership and experience to the White House."
Mayor Pete Buttigieg
When asked about climate change, Gabbard said,"This is an issue that impacts all of us as Americans and people all over the world. This is not a Democrat issue or a Republican issue. This is about the environmental threats that each and every one of us face. These are the kinds of conversations that we're having in our town hall meetings and house parties in different parts of the country where we have Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, and Independents coming together, saying, 'Hey, we are all concerned about making sure that we have clean water to drink for our families, that we have clean air to breathe, that we're able to raise our kids in a community that's safe.'
It is the hyper-partisanship in Washington, unfortunately, that has created this gridlock that has stood in the way of the kinds of progress that I would bring about as president, transitioning our country off of fossil fuels and ending the nearly $30 billion in subsidies that we as taxpayers are currently giving to the fossil fuel industry, instead investing in a green, renewable energy economy that leads us into the 21st century with good-paying jobs, a sustainable economy, investing in infrastructure, and transitioning our agriculture -- that is a great contributor to the environmental threats we face -- towards an agriculture system that focuses on local and regional production of food, healthy food that will actually feed the health and well-being of our people, leading as a leader in the world to make the global change necessary to address these threats."
When asked about combating white supremacist violence, Gabbard said, "We have seen for far too long the kind of racial bigotry, divisiveness, and attacks that unfortunately have taken the lives of our fellow Americans. Leadership starts at the top. It's important that we set the record straight and correct the racial injustices that exist in a very institutional way in our country, beginning with things that have to do with our criminal justice system, where predominantly the failed war on drugs that has been continuing to be waged in this country has disproportionately impacted people of color and people in poverty.
"This is something that I'll do as president and commander-in-chief: to overhaul our criminal justice system, working in a bipartisan way to do things like end the failed war on drugs, end the money bail system, enact the kinds of prison reforms and sentencing reforms that we need to see, that will correct the failures of the past.
"The most important thing here is that we recognize that we have to treat each other with respect, all of us as fellow Americans, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, gender, orientation, and our politics. That kind of leadership starts at the top. As president, I will usher in a 21st century White House that actually represents the interests of all Americans, first and foremost.
When asked about making sure elections are secure, Gabbard said, "Voting rights are essential for our democracy. Securing our elections is essential for our democracy. I've introduced legislation, called the Securing Americas Elections Act, that mandates paper ballots to make sure that every single voter's voice is heard.
Tonight's democratic presidential debate featured ten candidates.
Gabbard's Closing Remarks:"My personal commitment to you, to all of my fellow Americans, is to treat you with respect and compassion, something that we in Hawaiʻi called aloha. Every single person deserves to be treated with respect, regardless of race, religion, or gender, or even your politics. Inclusion, unity, respect, aloha, these will be the operating principles for my administration.
"Dr. Martin Luther King visited Hawaiʻi first back in 1959, where he expressed his appreciation for what we call the aloha spirit. He said, 'We look to you for inspiration as a bold example for what you have already succeeded in the areas of racial harmony and racial justice, where we are still struggling to achieve in other sections of the country.' He later went on to say, 'as I looked out at the various faces and various colors mingled together like the waters of the sea, I see only one face, the face of the future.'
"Working side by side, let's defeat the divisiveness of Donald Trump, come together, and usher in a 21st century of racial harmony, of racial justice, peace, inclusion, and true equality, working side by side. Let's make Dr. King's dream our reality."
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HIGHWAY 11 CLOSED DOWN LAST NIGHT at Kāwā Flats due to heavy rains and flooding. The road opened this morning. Due to the heavy rain and colder temperatures, both Mauna Loa and Maunakea saw snowfall at their summits. Most of the snow melted during the day.
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A MILLION DREAMS benefit concert, hosted by Kīlauea Drama and Entertainment Network, features Pedro Kaʻawaloa, Norman Arancon, Paige Mason, and Mikala Thomas as they perform some of their favorite songs. The one day only show, on Saturday, Nov. 30, offers pieces ranging from pop and jazz favorites to some great hits from Broadway, both old and new. There will be a matinee show and a evening show at ChristLutheranChurch, 595 Kapiolani Street in Hilo. This is a free admission event, but donations will be graciously accepted at the door. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. For more information please call 982-7344 or email kden73@aol.com.
Hilo's Kaʻawaloa returns from the Big Apple where he has been working his craft. He recently traveled the country, playing the titular role of the king of Siamin the national tour of The King & I. Other notable roles he's played include El Gallo in The Fantasticks– both for KDEN and in Florida– Captain Hook in Peter Pan, and the Beast in Beauty and the Beast.
Norman Arancon continues to perform here on Hawaiʻi Island, and is currently portraying The Spirit of Transformation in The Hawaiian Nutcracker. His most notable roles include Engineer in Miss Saigon, The King of Siam in The King and I for KDEN, and Jafar in Aladdin Jr.
Paige Mason is originally from Lexington, Kentuckybut is now based out of New York. She most recently traveled Chinaand Saudi Arabiain the International tour of The Wizard of Oz. Some of her notable roles are Millie in Thoroughly Modern Millie, Fiona in Shrek: The Musical, and Babette in Beauty and the Beast.
Mikala Thomas most recently produced a recital for his 28 music students. He was last seen playing keyboards for RENT at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, and is excited to be working with Pedro, Norman, and Paige.
KDEN has been providing quality theatre to Hawaiʻi Island since 2002; come help show support of an organization that has touched and shaped the lives of many in East Hawaiʻi, requests the organization.
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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.
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
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
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
‘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
ONGOING
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. 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, , and Saturday, Nov. 30, 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.
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 provided. See pidfoundation.org or call Tata Compehos and Melody Espejo at 808-938-1088.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
Kaʻū Roping & Riding has announced a gymkhana this Sunday at 9:30 a.m. at Nāʻālehu Arena and a Lantern Parade through Nāʻālehu on Saturday, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. See more events below. Photo by Geneveve Fyvie
A BAN ON USE OF MANY PESTICIDES BY HAWAIʻI COUNTY passed the County Council Wednesday with a six to three vote. Twenty-three herbicides, including Roundup, will be banned for use in Hawaiʻi County parks, roads, bikeways, sidewalks, trails, drainageways, and waterways. The bill will take effect over the course of four years. Maile David, Kaʻū's councilwoman, voted for the ban. Attendees of the meeting applauded the passage.
The bill doesn't apply to using the herbicides on non-county lands and land leased by the county to others. The bill also allows applying these herbicides "directly into the trunk or onto the cut stump of a targeted invasive species using methods known as incision point injection or cut stump application." This was added at the request of the Big Island Invasive Species Committee, which is combating such species as the invasive albizia tree. The bill also creates a vegetation management transition committee to oversee development of alternatives to the prohibited herbicides. The committee will include a county resident versed in "weed science," and a person with knowledge in Native Hawaiian plants, tropical horticulture, agroforestry, silviculture, organic landscape design and maintenance, permaculture, and natural farming.
Roundup contains an herbicide that is banned in Hawaiʻi County for use by the county on county lands.
The banned herbicides are: acetochol, alachlor, atrazine, aminopyralid, benfluralin, clopyralid, dicamba, dithiopyr, diquat dibromide, diuron, fluazifpr-p-butyl, glufosinate, glyphosate, imazapyr, isoxaben, MCPA, mecoprop (MCPP), metolachlor, paraquat dichloride, pendimethalin, trilopr, trifluralin, and 2,4-D. The main active ingredient in Roundup is glyphosate. Acetochlor is sold under brand names Acenit, Guardian, Harness, Relay, Sacemid, Surpass, Top-Hand, Trophy, and Winner. Atrazine brand names include Marzone. MCPP is often used in combination with other chemically related herbicides such as 2,4-D, dicamba, and MCPA. The bill states herbicides are "heavily used to control vegetation in public places" and that "exposure to these substances subjects the public, County workers, domestic animals, and wildlife to a high risk of exposure to dangerous chemicals." The bill states that the World Health Organization "has listed glyphosate, a commonly used herbicide, as a probable carcinogen." It is a component of Roundup. Blake Watson, a Hawaiʻi Sierra Club representative who helped draft the bill, told AP News that a previous herbicide ban proposal resulted in difficulties defining what should be considered toxic. "We decided to make a different kind of system that specifically laid out the chemicals without getting in the quagmire of what's toxic and what's dangerous, which gets really murky. If the county wants to add to (the list), they can add to it."
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Roy Takemoto, new Hawaiʻi County Managing Director. Photo from Big Island Video News
ROY TAKEMOTO IS THE NEW HAWAIʻI COUNTY MANAGING DIRECTOR, effective Monday, Dec. 2. The Managing Director serves as acting mayor whenever the Mayor is off-island or unable to fulfill his duties. Mayor Harry Kim's Executive Assistant since 2016, Takemoto will replace Wil Okabe, who resigned. Takemoto, 65, also served Kim in 2000 to 2008, first as Deputy Planning Director and then as Executive Assistant. Said Kim, "Royhas been an indispensable member of my Cabinet, and I have complete confidence that he will serve admirably as Managing Director. I'm really grateful that he's taking on this important job." Takemoto worked as a private planning consultant prior to 2000 and after 2008. He has a bachelor's degree in philosophy and environmental studies, a master's degree in Urban and Regional Planning, and a law degree from the University of Hawai‘i's William S. Richardson School of Law. Takemoto was raised near Wahiawa on O‘ahu, and in 1991 he quit his job working for a hotel developer, married a Hilo girl and moved to Hilo to be among his wife's and mother's families. He has a grown son who lives in WashingtonState, where he is a software developer.
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PRAISE FOR A HAWAIʻI ISLAND, ARMY HELICOPTER PILOT who died in a crash in Afghanistan this week has come from public leaders. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Fuchigami, 25, of Keaʻau, died in Logar Province, Afghanistan, while he and his co-pilot provided air security for ground troops. The helicopter crashed supporting Operation Freedom's Sentinal. Also killed was Chief Warrant Officer 2 David C. Knadle, 33, from Tarrant, Texas. Lt. Col. Adam Camarano, commander, 1-227th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, said, "First Attack is saddened by the tragic loss. Our heartfelt condolences go to both families and their friends during this difficult time. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Knadel and Chief Warrant Officer 2 Fuchigami will always be remembered as a part of the heroic legacy of the 1st Cavalry Division; forged by the sacrifices of brave Cavalry Troopers who have laid down their lives in defense of freedom."
The late Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kirk T. Fuchigami.
U.S. Department of Defense photo
Fuchigami was assigned to 1st Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Tx. He entered active duty in May 2017 and following his initial training, was assigned to 1-227th in October 2018 where he served as an Apache Helicopter pilot. Fuchigami’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Combat Action Badge and Army Aviator Badge. Fuchigami deployed to Afghanistan in October 2019. According to Army officials, the incident remains under investigation. Sen. Brian Schatz wrote: "Kirk Fuchigami served our country with courage and distinction. His death is a loss that will be felt across the Big Island and the state of Hawai‘i, and as a nation, we will always remember his sacrifice. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, family, and friends during this very difficult time. We only hope that they find comfort in knowing that his service exceeded all measures of honor. In life, Chief Warrant Officer Two Fuchigami was a guardian of liberty. In rest, may he find the peace we all seek." Gov. David Ige wrote: "The people of Hawaiʻi join me in extending our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Chief Warrant Officer 2 Kirk T. Fuchigami, Jr., who paid the ultimate price for our freedom while serving his country in Afghanistan. Let us come together to support the family of this fallen soldier and honor his life, now and in the coming months and years."
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NĀʻĀLEHU ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FUNDRAISERS focus on reading and fun:
The Scholastic Book Fair runs though tomorrow, Friday, Nov. 22 at the Nāʻālehu Elementary School Library. The public is invited to come browse and buy from to
The Nāʻālehu Elementary School Friend-Raiser will be held Saturday, Nov. 23, 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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A GYMKHANA will be held by Kaʻū Roping & Riding Association this Sunday at the rodeo grounds in Nāʻālehu. Admission is free and it begins at 9:30 a.m. Kaʻū Roping & Riding also announced its annual Christmas Lantern Parade to be held Saturday, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. in Nāʻālehu. Refreshments will follow at Nāʻālehu Community Center.
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CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY FEATURING THE 20TH ANNUAL INVITATIONAL WREATH EXHIBIT at Volcano Art Center Gallery begins this Friday, Nov. 22, with a VAC-members only preview event from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Starting Saturday, the public is welcome to come see the exhibit daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Tuesday, Dec. 31.
Each year, VAC Gallery in Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park creates "a merry scene of art and aloha" inside its 1877 historic building. In addition to the artwork VAC is known for, unique holiday offerings of island-inspired gifts, ornaments, and decorations – including some that are VAC exclusives – all made by Hawaiʻi Island artists, are on offer.
The concurrent Wreath Exhibit presents one-of-a-kind wreaths in a variety of imaginative media, techniques, and styles, from the whimsical to the traditional. "Those looking for truly original wreaths as well as one-of- a-kind, handmade gift items will not be disappointed by the selection created by the local artistic community," states the announcement from VAC.
At the Niʻaulani Campus, visitors can come see and purchase items from Christmas and More!, a collection of hand crafted quilts. The exhibit will be on display daily, , Friday, Nov. 22 through Monday, Dec. 30.
Christmas in the Country expands to the Niʻaulani Campus Thanksgiving weekend, Friday, Nov. 29 and Saturday, Nov. 30. The Hale Hoʻomana building will feature a preview of the exhibit and program offerings for the upcoming year and host members of the Volcano Hui, displaying handmade art and gifts as part of the annual Volcano Hui Tour. Live poinsettia will be on display and available for purchase as a fundraiser for VolcanoSchool of Arts & Sciences.
On Friday, Nov. 29, , learn to make lei with tropical Agriculture farmer Kaipo Ah Chong. As a member of Hālau Na Kamalei, his unique experience marries the science of agriculture with Hawaiian lei and hula traditions. This free cultural event is supported in part by Hawaiʻi Tourism. VAC Gallery in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park; entrance fees apply.
Wreathes made from many different media will be on display through the end of December at Volcano Art Center Gallery. Photo from VAC
Make a holiday card on Saturday, Nov. 30, , at VAC Gallery in the Park. VAC staff member Emily Weiss will lead visitors in making a one-of-a-kind, hand printed, woodblock holiday card using the small, prized, hand-carved linoleum blocks, borrowed from the estate of the late Volcano area artist, Dietrich Varez. All supplies provided. Free; Park entrance fees apply.
Learn the fundamentals of Painting from Observation with Volcano artist Lisa Maria Martin on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 7 and 8, from to This two-day workshop is suitable for beginner and intermediate students looking to grow a painting practice or to help take their art to the next level by observing and painting from life.
In the December Zentangle: Artist Inspired workshop with Lydia Meneses on Saturday, Dec. 14 at , learn creative tangle techniques inspired by Gustav Klimt and Keith Haring.
Jazz in the Forest: Christmas Jazz featuring Jean Pierre Thoma & the Jazztones, with Jeannine Guillory-Kane, will perform classics of the holiday season on Saturday, Dec. 14 at
December's Hula Kahiko performance will be held Saturday, Dec. 14 at , lead by Kumu Hula Kapuaikapoliopele Ka‘au‘a with Unuokeahi and Unuiti. Nā Mea Hula with Kumu Hula Moses Kahoʻokele Crabbe begins at , at VAC Gallery.
A Zentangle-Inspired Art Pop-Up Exhibit and Reception will be held on Saturday, Dec. 21 at . Meet the artists and discover art created using the Zentangle method. Bring your friends, your art, and a light pupu to share.
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.
VAC is a non-profit educational organization created in 1974 to promote, develop, and perpetuate the artistic and cultural heritage of Hawai‘i's people and environment through activities in the visual, literary, and performing arts. Visit volcanoartcenter.org.
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Pāʻauʻau Gluch on Aug. 25, 2018. The flooding was attributed to Hurricane
Lane. 2019 has been a quiet year for hurricanes. Photo by Julia Neal
HURRICANE SEASON ENDS IN NINE DAYS, on Nov. 30, and Kaʻū has avoided major storm impact so far. The season began June 1, with the first named storm in the Pacific not showing up until late June. While a few weather disturbances formed, then dissipated, close to the islands, the closest hurricanes came to really affecting Kaʻū this season were Erick and Flossie, in late July and early August.
Erick caused Hawaiʻi County to close down South Point Road, and Punaluʻu and Whittington Beach Parks, and there was high surf, storm surge, rain, and wind.
Flossie was a post tropical cyclone by the time her weather began to affect Kaʻū, and her high surf, winds, and rain were brief.
Neither Erick nor Flossie came close to causing the kind of damage Hurricane Lane did in 2018. Even this week's flooding events have not affected Kaʻū as severely as last year's storms.
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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.
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
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
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
‘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
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
ONGOING
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. 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, , and Saturday, Nov. 30, 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.
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.
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.
Chassis Kaleohana with her potted vegetable plant to take home to grow, from the Pāhala Elementary Farm Stand. It opened today to sell the food grown by students and is open on most Fridays at 1 p.m. on the campus. Photo by Julia Neal
A FARM STAND OPENED AT PĀHALA ELEMENTARY today for students, their parents, teachers and others on the campus. The produce is grown by students who also learn sales and how to explain good nutrition to others.
Pāhala Elementary's tech wiz Andrew Honma picks up Thai basil from the new Farm Stand. Photo by Julia Neal
Students receive a 50 percent discount at the Farm Stand. Lettuce, arugula, basil, and potted food plants ready for home gardening were among the offerings today. The Farm Stand is the work of Katie Graham, an elementary teacher who specializes in gardening, assigned to the Pāhala campus through Food Corps, which states on its website: "Together with communities, FoodCorps connects kids to healthy food in school. Our vision: We are creating a future in which all our nation's children––regardless of race, place, or class––know what healthy food is, care where it comes from, and eat it every day. "Healthy food is a building block for a full life. But right now, not all kids have access to healthy food or education about how to make healthy choices. Structural inequities based on race, place, and class have resulted in health disparities that have taken an unjust toll on children of color and children growing up in households struggling to make ends meet.
"In the United States, one in three kids are on track to develop diet-related illness in their lifetime. For kids of color, it's one in two." Children who lack a quality diet are more likely to face a lifetime of challenges: they score lower on tests, miss more days of school, advance less in their careers, and raise children who are likely to repeat the same cycle. "We see schools as places where we can correct these injustices, providing healthy food access and education for all kids. FoodCorps helps schools become places where kids get the nourishment they need to thrive."
The Farm Stand is open every Friday, except for Thanksgiving Week and other holidays, from 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. near the Pāhala Elementary School playground.
Food Corps is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Americorps, and corporate and foundation partners.
Elementary School gardening teacher Katie Graham smiles as the children who are learning about growing food and nutrition gather around the new Food Stand on the campus. Photo by Julia Neal
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE is investing $13.45 million "to improve the quality of rural life in Hawaiʻi and Western Pacific," according to an announcement from its Rural Development agency. The investments will go through its Community Facilities Direct Loan Program.
Hawaiʻi/Western Pacific State Director Brenda Iokepa-Moses, of Pāhala, said she encourages all rural communities to take advantage of these funding opportunities. "Don't be intimidated by the applications, we have fully capable and willing staff to help applicants through the process," said Iokepa-Moses. Projects announced this month include a Rural Development loan guarantee of $2.45 million to be used to purchase Keaʻau Family Health and Dental Center and fund alternative energy technology. The clinic has been leasing the facility and serving the community since June 2002. "The 7,175 square foot health center provides much needed health and dental services to the rural communities of Hamakua, Puna, and Kaʻū," said the Rural Development statement.
Brenda Iokepa-Moses, of Pāhala, in her new role as Director of the USDA's Rural Development agency for Hawaiʻi and the Pacific (front, second from right) with her crew at the historic Federal Building in Hilo. Photo from USDA
Rural Development investment of $11 million will be used to help finance the renovation and expansion of a World War I submarine museum in Honolulu's Pearl Harbor historic site, which houses the USS Bowfin Submarine at the Pacific Fleet Submarine Memorial Museum. The museum was formed 40 years ago with the mission and purpose of preserving and sharing stories of our Silent Service submarine force. The museum will expand its current education programs with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering and mathematics. More than 100 types of projects are eligible for Community Facilities program funding. Eligible applicants include municipalities, public bodies, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized Native American tribes. Projects must be in rural areas with a population of 20,000 or less. USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. See Report to the President of the United States from the Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity and Rural Prosperity infographic. For information about additional funding, application procedures and eligibility details in Hawaii, interested parties should contact Roxanne Kimm-Yanagi at (808) 600-2947. Interested parties in the Western Pacific should contact Joseph Diego at (671) 300-8560. Also see the Community Facilities Direct Loan Program Guidance Book for Applicants, a detailed overview of the application process, USDA Rural Development webpage at htrd.usda.gov/hi and twitter.com/RD_Hawaii.
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ENDING FEDERAL MARIJUANA PROHIBITION is the goal of a bill, introduced by Kaʼū's congresswoman, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. The House Judiciary Committee voted to pass the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment, and Expungement Act and now awaits consideration by the full House.
Said Gabbard. "I've long been a champion for ending the federal marijuana prohibition, and today's vote on the MORE Act is a crucial step forward toward ending our failed marijuana policy which has ruined people's lives and strained our criminal justice system. Congress must pass this bill so that we can begin to help heal the wounds caused by the failed war on drugs and move forward together."
The MORE Act would decriminalizes marijuana at the federal level, apply retroactively to prior and pending convictions, and enable states to set their own policy.
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard with the NORML group, earlier this year, as she promotes legalization of marijuana on the national stage. Photo from Gabbard's Twitter
Federal courts would be required to expunge prior convictions. Prior offenders would also be allowed to request expungement. The Act also would require courts to conduct re-sentencing hearings for those still under supervision.
The Act would place a five percent sales tax on marijuana and marijuana products. This tax would create an Opportunity Trust Fund, which includes three grant programs:
The Community Reinvestment Grant Program would provide services to individuals most adversely impacted by the War on Drugs, including job training, re-entry services, legal aid, literacy programs, youth recreation, mentoring, and substance use treatment.
The Cannabis Opportunity Grant Program would provide funds for loans to assist small businesses in the marijuana industry that are owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.
The Equitable Licensing Grant Program would provide funds for programs that minimize barriers to marijuana licensing and employment for the individuals most adversely impacted by the War on Drugs.
The Act would also open up Small Business Administration funding for cannabis-related businesses and service providers; and prohibit denial of federal public benefits and alleviate immigration impact based on use, possession, or prior conviction for a marijuana offense.
The Act has support from: the Drug Policy Alliance, Center for American Progress, 4thMVMT, ACLU, California Minority Alliance, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), Human Rights Watch, Immigrant Legal Resource Center, Law Enforcement Action Partnership, Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, National Council for Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Women and Girls, National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML), Sentencing Project, Students for Sensible Drug Policy, UndocuBlack Network, Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA).
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Photos from Tutu & Me
TŪTŪ AND ME hosted special guests during an outing on Monday, Nov. 18. Barbara Sarbin from Something Good in the World visited Tūtū and Me and brought her friends, the worms. Michelle Buck from Tūtū and Me said, "The keiki had a wonderful time learning about worms and how to care for them. Auntie Barbara read to us, and Dillon and Grandma Dawn became total 'bookworms.' Mahalo to Auntie Barbara!"
Tūtū and Me is a program under Partners in Development for keiki ages zero to five and their caregivers. There is no cost to attend. Home visits are also available.
See pidfoundation.org or call Tata Compehos and Melody Espejo at 808-938-1088.
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TRAVEL BACK IN TIME to Hiloin the 1880s in this week's Volcano Watch, written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates:
Hilohad a close call from the 1881 Mauna Loa lava flow.
Over the last two centuries, six lava flows erupted from Mauna Loa's Northeast Rift Zone and advanced toward Hilo. These flows were from eruptions in 1852, 1855-56, 1880-81, 1935-36, 1942, and 1984. Of the six, only one advanced closer to HiloBay than 10 km (6.2 mi). The most-threatening flow, erupted in 1880-81, advanced to a point 1.7 km (1.1 mi) from the shores of HiloBaybefore it stalled.
A new USGS publication titled The Lava Flow that Came to Hilo—The 1880–81 Eruption of Mauna Loa Volcano, Island of Hawai‘i tells the story of this flow, briefly recounted below.
Three flows erupted from Mauna Loa in November 1880. The first two flows were fast-moving, and rapidly advanced both north and south from the Northeast Rift Zone at average speeds of 6 km (3.7 mi) per day before stalling a few weeks later. The third flow, which erupted from a slightly lower vent, advanced directly toward Hilo, although at a much slower average rate of 0.18 km (0.11 mi) per day.
The Hiloflow was slow but relentless, and as it got closer to Hilo, government officials took action to try to save the town. The Governor of the Islanddeclared a day of prayer in early July 1881 to stop the flow, but it kept advancing and praying continued.
This painting by Charles Furneaux, Night View 1880-1881, Eruption from HiloBay, illustrates the first two flows as
they would have been in November 1880. In reality, however, both flows would not have been visible
from this vantage. Image courtesy of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
At the end of July, Princess Ruth Luka Keʻelikōlani, a descendant of the Kamehameha line of chiefs, traveled from Honoluluto Hilo. There, she camped with her entourage on Puʻu Honu, the westernmost hill of the three Hālaʻi hills – the most makai, or lowest, hill is at the top of Haili Street in Hilo. Puʻu Honu was an excellent vantage point from which to observe the Hiloflow.
A week after Princess Ruth arrived in Hilo, Princess Regent Liliʻuokalani and her department heads also arrived in Hilo, where they met to consider ways to save the town. This may have been the first time in Hawaiian history that lava flow diversion was discussed.
A plan of action, including building barriers to divert the flow, building shelters for those displaced by the flow, and placing dynamite somewhere along the lava conduit, or tube, to drain the flow's supply of lava, was devised and sent back to Honolulu. Hilo families and friends entertained both Princesses during the following week while the Hiloflow continued to slowly advance.
In early August, Princess Ruth's attendants secured brandy and red scarves. She approached the flow somewhere within what is now the ʻAlenaio gulch, where she offered the brandy and scarves and chanted, asking Pele, the Hawaiian volcano deity, to stop the flow and go home. By all reports the flow stopped.
Princess Ruth Keʻelikōlani served as Royal Governor
of Hawaiʻi Island. She attempted to divert a lava flow,
headed toward Hilofrom Mauna Loa, with offerings
to Pele of brandy and red scarves.
Photo from BishopMuseum
About that same time, government supplies for building barriers and shelters and draining the lava flow arrived, but the flow had stopped. Only one homestead outside of Hilohad been destroyed. The town of Hilowas spared.
In retrospect, not only did officials understand how lava flows were supplied with lava from the vent, they felt confident that they could manipulate the flow's advance by using dynamite to breach the supply conduit and stall the flow.
Reverend Titus Coan, a Hilo missionary, had discovered these lava conduits and how they worked in 1843 while observing a Mauna Loa lava flow erupted that year. In 1881, Coan's ideas were being used in a plan to stop an active lava flow. Coan must have been thrilled that his discovery of these lava conduits, which he named "pyroducts," were understood by his fellow residents and missionaries. Sadly, this would be his last eruption; he died 16 months later, on December 1, 1882.
There are many stories surrounding the 1880-81 eruption, illustrated by numerous photographs, paintings, and maps. Photography was being used more often in Hawaiʻi and traditional artists were finding inspiration in various aspects of the volcanic activity and displaying them in vivid color.
Until recently, there was confusion about where the first lava flow erupted in November 1880 was located. Using chemical analyses of lava flows in the vicinity, as well as eye-witness accounts of the 1880 flow, the true identity of that first flow was revealed.
Kῑlauea Volcano is not erupting and its USGS Volcano Alert level remains at NORMAL. Monitoring data showed no notable changes over the past week. Earthquake activity across the volcano remained largely steady. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are low at the summit and below detection limits at Puʻu ʻŌʻō and the lower East Rift Zone. The water pond at the bottom of Halema‘uma‘u continues to slowly expand and deepen.
This past week, about 62 small-magnitude earthquakes – nearly all less than M2.0 – were detected beneath the upper elevations of Mauna Loa. Deformation measurements show continued summit inflation. Fumarole temperature and gas concentrations on the Southwest Rift Zone remain stable.
No earthquakes with three or more felt reports occurred in Hawaiʻi this past week.
Visit volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvofor past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake info, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.
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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.
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
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
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
‘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
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
ONGOING
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. 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, , and Saturday, Nov. 30, 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.
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.
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Eva Lee, of Volcano, at the Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United Convention on Maui this month. She won the Peoples Choice Award with her Hawaiian Grown Black Tea, cultivated at Volcano Tea Garden in Volcano Village. See more on Hawaiʻi Farmers Union below. Photo from Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United
TEN MORE 40-FOOT BUSES FOR THE HELE ON BUS FLEET for Hawaiʻi County will come from millions of dollars in funding announced Friday by the Federal Transit Administration. Shortages in buses and drivers have led to time changes and cancellations of some bus trips from Kaʻū to the rest of the island. Buses take workers from Kaʻū to Kona and Kohala resorts, as well as to work in Hilo. The Hele On also serves to take some students to and from schools, community college, and University of Hawaiʻi classes in both Hilo and Kona.
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HAWAIʻI FARMERS UNITED KAʻŪ CHAPTER will hold a meeting on Saturday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. at Pāhala Plantation House. Pres. Matt Drayer, a farmer and chef in Wood Valley, said that plans are being made for 2020, including agriculture education, events, and reviewing legislation and issues before the county, state, and federal policymakers that affect Kaʻū. Rep. Richard Creagan, Chair of the state House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture, will attend and present his agenda for the 2020 legislature. All persons working or interested in agriculture are invited. A potluck lunch will be served.
Eva Lee, of Volcano, gave the keynote and won Peoples Choice at the Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United Convention in Maui this month. Photo from Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United
Drayer recently returned from the state Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United annual convention. He said it was an enriching experience, with many dedicated farmers. "I would like that to be more available for us, here in Kaʻū."
During the convention Eva Lee's Hawaiʻi Grown Black Tea won the Peoples Choice Award. Her tea is grown at Volcano Tea Garden in Volcano Village at the 3,600 ft. elevation. She held a tasting of her Camellia sinensis tea, differently processed into white, green, and black. It is shade grown under a canopy of ʻŌhiʻa and Hapuʻu tree fern forest, on the farm in Volcano, run by Eva and her husband Chiu Leong.
For more information on Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United, call Drayer at 808-339-8737. For more on Eva Lee and Tea Hawaiʻi, see teahawaii.com
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A LETTER IN SUPPORT OF FEDERAL SCIENTISTS came from Sen. Mazie Hirono this week.
She wrote that "In these times of uncertainty and instability, I want to thank you for your commitment to providing the American people with facts backed by sound science.
"The public benefits every hour of every day from the information you produce as a direct result of your pursuit of scientific progress and discovery. The scientific contributions you make at your respective agencies have a positive impact on each of us on a daily basis and, too often recently, we have seen many examples of your work being taken for granted or going unappreciated.
"At the Environmental Protection Agency, science is under constant attack. There are rumors of red teams and blue teams being assembled as an effort to sow distrust in the fact that our climate is changing at an unprecedented rate and humans are to blame. Attacks on science are going so far as to put children's health at risk. The EPA has taken actions to undermine the Office of Children's Health Protection and its core mission of assessing the unique vulnerabilities of children to environmental hazards like pesticides and lead. OCHP was left entirely off of an EPA organizational chart in 2018 and the Director of OCHP was abruptly put on leave shortly thereafter. More recently, officials decided EPA would no longer participate in the Children's Environmental Health and Disease Prevention Research Program.
Mauna Loa Observatory is the location of data collected to understand climate change, including the increase of C02 in the atmosphere. Photo from Mauna Loa Observatory
"At the U.S. Department of Agriculture, reports on the impacts of climate change on crops are being buried rather than publicized. The department is hastily moving ahead with plans to relocate two agencies out of Washington, D.C., leading to nearly 80 percent of the relocated positions being vacated. The impacts of this move – the loss of issue expertise and institutional knowledge – will be felt within USDA for many years. And the reasons used to justify the move don't hold water, especially considering those impacts.
"The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has yet to publish a report on the potential impacts of pesticides currently in use on endangered species – despite the report allegedly being ready for release almost two years ago.
"And who would have thought that the reliability of hurricane forecasts and the jobs of National
Instruments on Mauna Loa show scientists the increase in C02, a predictor of climate change.
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists – not to mention the safety of communities across the country that need to be able to rely on accurate weather information – would be subject to today's politics?
"The list goes on, and there are new instances of suppression and mistreatment of scientists being reported on a near-weekly basis. These actions discount the value and work of federal employees like yourself, as well as the value of science to the public interest. Even more concerning is the fact that our federal government's scientific expertise is already short-handed and under-resourced compared to wealthy corporate interests they are charged with regulating.
"There should be no question that the public interest is served by gathering data, analyzing information, and presenting solutions to issues like solving lead contamination in water, how to sustain our food supply in the face of extreme weather, or myriad other issues that have historically had bipartisan support. The work you do matters because you are generating the data underlying everything from the policy actions my colleagues and I take, to the choices parents make about the safety of consumer products, to the decisions our farmers make about planting the crops that provide food for our nation’s families. Without solid scientific foundations for these decisions, we are relying on guesswork and conjecture—or corporate-funded research. Do we want to rely on health studies funded by Big Tobacco, or climate studies funded by Big Oil? I think not.
"The exodus of scientists from federal agencies who have spoken out has helped to shine a light on the difficulty those of you who persevere in the name of public service face in conducting your jobs. My message to you is: Your jobs are important, your service is appreciated, and science matters. Thank you for your hard work and for your commitment.
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Roads marked in red are ones that surveyed residents said were "poor roads." Map from ConsumerAffairs.com
HAWAIʻI SPENDS THE MOST PER MILE ON ITS ROADS of all the states in the U.S., according to a recent report from ConsumerAffairs.com. While Hawaiʻi has the fewest miles of roads – at 4,476 total miles – each mile of road costs $172,000, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, $52,000 higher per mile of road than the next-closest state, New Jersey, states the report.
Consumer Affairs asked 1,418 people across the U.S. about roads in their state. Hawaiʻi's surveyed residents reported that the state has the third highest number of "poor" roads. Residents stated Hawaiʻi roads are "congested, poorly marked, and not consistently maintained." The report states that "a combination of heavy rainfall and thin asphalt might be to blame" for the 42 percent of Hawaiʻi roads said to be in poor condition. Only 17 percent of Hawaiʻi roads were, according to the survey, in "good" condition.
Last year's Pāhala Christmas Parade, featuring Santa, other costumed
characters, and one of the sponsors, Ed Olson, who owns
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PARTICIPANTS ARE INVITED TO JOIN IN PĀHALA'S 41ST CHRISTMAS PARADE Sunday, Dec. 8. The hilly neighborhoods will fill with music, Christmas characters, classic cars, Kaʻū Coffee farmers, churches, and community groups. Along the parade route, Pāhala residents and visitors will gather in yards, on porches, and curbside to receive the well wishes of Santa and candy thrown with help from his elves. Santa is Eddie Andrade, who with his his family and friends, organize the event each year with help from the Edmund C. Olson Trust II. It begins at the old Pahala Armory. For more information, call Andrade at 928-0808.
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CHRISTMAS LIGHTING PARADE will be held Saturday, Dec. 14, along Nāʻālehu's Main Street. Refreshments will follow at Nāʻālehu Community Center. Sponsored by Kaʻū Roping & Riding association, the nighttime paradefeatures marching units, floats, trucks, and ATVs. The route begins at Nā‘ālehu Elementary School, travels along Highway 11, and ends at Nā‘ālehu Community Center. Parade line-up starts at Those interested in participating in the parade are asked to sign a waiver and meet at the school by
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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
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
‘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
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
ONGOING
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. 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, , and Saturday, Nov. 30, 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.
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.
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Pakukui, the Achilles Tang, are abundant in Ka`u waters and popular among those who catch them to sell to aquarium fish dealers. Image from 1905 illustration courtesy of IslandArtCards.com
AQUARIUM FISH-TAKING PERMITS FOR KA`U WATERS AND BEYOND are proposed in a draft Environmental Impact Statement, presented by the Pet industry Joint Advisory Council. It was posted on Saturday by the state Office of Environmental Quality Control. Issuance of new permits to catch fish and sell them for aquariums stopped in September, 2017. The proposal would allow more than a dozen new permits, if approved by the state Department of Land & Natural Resources, following public input, due Jan. 20, 2020. All of the new permits would be issued for the West Hawai’i Regional Fishery Management Area, which covers nearshore waters from South Point all the way up the west side of the island. Ka`u, in particular, is noted for an abundance of Achilles Tang, which are collected for sales to aquarium fish dealers. No permits would be allowed for waters of East Hawai`i and the rest of the state. The 490-page Draft EIS contends that there is a need "to continue commercial aquarium fishers’ livelihoods in compliance with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to the industry.” It says that through the permits there will be assurance of "lawful, responsible, and sustainable commercial collection of various fish species from nearshore habitats of the WHRFMA.” One proposal in the EIS would reduce bag limit for Achilles Tang to five per day. The permitting is complicated by a state Supreme Court decision in October 2017 declaring illegal the use of fine mesh nets to catch aquatic life for aquarium purposes.
West Hawai`i Regional Fishery Management Area is from South Point to the north end of the island. Some of the most abundant waters for aquarium fish, including the Achilles Tang are in areas labeled 100A and 100 B in Ka`u. Map from Draft EIS
The Draft EIS addresses environmental and cultural impacts and concludes that the permitting “does not involve an irrevocable commitment or loss or destruction of any natural or cultural resource.” Download the complete Draft EIS from the Office of Environmental Quality Control website. The purpose of the West Hawai`i Regional Fishery Management Area, as stated in the Draft EIS, is to: Ensure the sustainability of the state's nearshore ocean resources; Identify areas with resource and use conflicts; Provide management plans as well as implementing regulations for minimizing user conflicts and resource depletion through the designation of sections of coastal waters in the WHRFMA as FRAs where certain specified fish collecting activities are prohibited and other areas where anchoring and
Longnose butterfly fish, lau-wiliwili-mukunuku`oi`oi is one of the species most prevalent in southern Hawai`i Island waters. They are sold as aquarium fish. Photo from Waikiki Aquarium
ocean recreation activities are restricted; Establish a system of day-use mooring buoys in high-use coral reef areas and limit anchoring in some of these areas to prevent anchor damage to corals; Identify areas and resources of statewide significance for protection; Carry out scientific research and monitoring of the nearshore resources and environment; and Provide for substantive involvement of the community in resource management decisions for this area through facilitated dialogues with community residents and resource users. DLNR is tasked with identifying specific areas and restrictions after close consultation and facilitated dialogue with working groups of community members and resource users.
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ADAPTING THE STATE ENERGY CODE FOR HAWAI`I COUNTY's "unique environment is moving closer to fruition with plenty of input from island residents," according to a County statement on Friday. Department of Public Works announced that the County's bill to amend and adopt the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code is expected to reach its first Council Committee agenda in either late December or January. The Code applies to construction of new buildings and for old buildings to undergo major renovations. In August, the 2015 IECC became effective in order to meet the State's energy reduction and clean energy deadline. However, concerns about a higher cost of construction led to community meetings and proposed amendments, with consultation from the design and building industry. In October, for the first time during the Code adoption process, interested members of the building, architectural, and real estate sectors participated in two topic-focused workshops held by DPW's Building Division. More than 60 people attended the workshops in Hilo and Kailua-Kona. Following these workshops, the public had about one week to submit written proposed amendments. Among many concerns with the code were such requirements as insulated roofs, which could triple roofing costs. Alternative proposals included installing solar attic fans and ridge and gable ventilation. Also proposed are allowing jalousie windows, which provide maximum cooling, but in some places across the country are disallowed because of the danger of flying glass during hurricanes. "I applaud the Public Works Building Division for taking that leap and seeking input from industry professionals as part of the code adoption process," says District 3 Councilwoman Sue Lee Loy, chair of the Council's Committee on Public Works and Mass Transit. "This bill is one step in the County's comprehensive long-term effort to update the County's building, plumbing, and electrical codes, and I thank the public for their patience as my office and Public Works staff work through the proposed amendments." Public Works received 203 comments and proposed amendments to the State's adoption of the Energy Code as a result of the workshops and the ensuing comment period. Acting Building Division Chief Robyn Matsumoto said, "We're thrilled we received the volume of feedback that we did. It's taken a lot of work to review each and every proposed amendment and by working closely with Councilwoman Lee Loy we anticipate submitting a solid bill for Council's consideration next month." According to the county statement, the overall intent proposed amendments is to lower the cost of building on Hawai'i Island by taking into consideration the tropical climate and residents' median income relative to the rest of the state while striving to meet the state's energy goals. After the proposed amendments are submitted to the Committee on Public Works and Mass Transit, they will undergo two readings at County Council meetings before the Council votes to formally adopt the amendments.
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A TRAFFIC FATALITY IN A ONE CAR ACCIDENT ON KAMAOA ROAD was reported today. Hawai`i County Fire Department responded to a call at 9:58 this morning, a half mile east of South Point Road intersection on Kama`oa. Police, firefighters and medics reached the scene at 10:11 a.m to find a man in his 20s or 30s, restrained in an overturned convertible in the brush on the side of the road. He was lifeless. The report lists the cause as unknown and the man has not been named. Chopper 2, which was headed to the scene to take the victim to emergency medical services, turned back after it was evident that the man died in the accident.
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Dusting it up as keiki get the feel of rodeo competition in a gymkhana at Na`aelehu Rodeo Arena this morning, sponsored by Ka`u Roping & Riding Association. Photo by Katie Graham
Riding by the Judges Booth at Na`alehu Arena. Photo by Katie Graham
MORE RODEO ARENA COMPETITION is scheduled through the end of the year at Na`alehu Arena, sponsored by Ka`u Riding & Roping Association. A gymkhana today saw keiki and youth competing in many categories. Another gymkhana will be held on Saturday, Dec. 30. Heading into Christmas, Ka`u Roping & Riding will hold its second annual Lantern Parade on Saturday, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. on Hwy 11, the Main Street of Na`alehu.
Reining in that rodeo horse at the gymkhana Sunday morning in Na`alehu. Photo by Katie Graham
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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
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
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
‘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
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
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
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
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
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. 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, , and Saturday, Nov. 30, 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.
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.
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Operations Services Supervisor Erin n Santos, winner of Inspiration With Aloha award, with new CU Hawaiʻi Federal
Credit Union Mark Peters and the team who serve at Nāʻālehu, Pāhala, and Ocean View. Photo from CU Hawaiʻi
NEW CU HAWAIʻI FEDERAL CREDIT UNION MANAGER FOR KAʻŪ, Mark Peters, said he is thrilled with the team of seven working at Nāʻālehu, Pāhala, and Ocean View. On the job for several months, Mark moved to Kaʻū for the position, after decades of work in finance, much of it with credit unions including the one originally organized by Pacific Bell employees in California.
Peters also worked in consumer and real estate lending. He lived for the last 21 years in the San FranciscoBayarea. He landed on this island to serve at CU Hawaiʻi just as Forbes Magazine ranked CU Hawaiʻi as the top credit union in the state of Hawaiʻi for 2019.
Peters said he feels at home in Kaʻū, having grown up in a farm town. His wife, Diane, has kamaʻaina roots and for years the couple knew they would live in Hawaiʻi.
Peters said he is particularly pleased to work with Kaʻū's Operations Supervisor Erinn Santos, who recently won the Inspiration With Aloha Core Value award, bestowed on her by the CU Hawaiʻi family of credit unions. He called her help with his integration into the Kaʻū community positive and amazing. Said, Peters, "I feel like I won a lottery to land here in this beautiful place" to work with such enthusiastic people who serve their community.
He said more innovations in CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union services are on their way to Kaʻū members, with guidance from CU Hawaiʻi President and CEO James Takamine. The message from the CU Hawaii website is that "We never deal with customers. We serve members, help neighbors, and support communities. From paying for everyday expenses to saving for retirement, our checking and savings accounts will help you realize more possibilities."
CU Hawaiʻi also offers online/mobile banking and bill pay; personal, auto, home, vacant land, and business loans; debit cards, Master Card credit cards, and lines of credit; as well as money market and IRA savings accounts, and more.
Branches are in Kona, Ocean View, Nāʻālehu, Pāhala, Pāhoa, Keaʻau, and Hilo. Board members of the islandwide CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union are: Chair Eric Tanouye, Vice Chair Toby Taniguchi, Financial Officer Francis Tsunezumi, Secretary Katherine Hirayama, and Directors Takashi Sasaki, Dr. Donn Ouye, and Christine Takahashi.
See cuhawaii.com for the history of the organization and its quarterly newsletter, as well as more details on services and community activities. This summer, CU Hawaiʻi was a sponsor of the winner's buckle for the July 4 Rodeo, held at Nāʻālehu Rodeo Arena by Kaʻū Roping & Riding Association.
CU HAWAIʻI FEDERAL CREDIT UNION'S Nāʻālehu Branch is taking applications for a Member Service Representative. The person will serve as a liaison between the member and the Credit Union, provide a variety of financial services to members including savings, share drafts, and loan transactions, as well as sales of merchandise items – money orders, traveler's checks, postage stamps, etc. – in accordance with Credit Union procedures and policies.
CU Hawaiʻi offers medical, drug, dental, vision, and retirement benefits.
Hand deliver to the Nāʻālehu branch, or mail or fax an application, to: CU Hawaiʻi Federal Credit Union, Attn: Human Resources, 476 Hinano Street, Hilo, HI96720; fax (808) 935-7793. Applications can be downloaded online at cuhawaii.com/about-cu/career-opportunities.html.
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AN UPDATE ON SUNDAY'S FATAL CAR ACCIDENT on Kamaʻoa Road reveals the name of the 35 year old man from Nāʻālehu as Paul Ray Roby. He died following a single-vehicle collision on Kamaoa, .7 miles east of the South Point Road. According to the police report, "Responding to a 9:55 a.m. call, police determined that a white 2000 Mercedes-Benz convertible heading east had run off of the right shoulder (Makai side) of the roadway." The vehicle traveled onto an 8-foot embankment and struck several trees before overturning on its top. "The male driver was transported to the Kona Community Hospital where he was later pronounced dead at 4:27 p.m. Police do believe that speed and alcohol are factors in the crash. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death." The Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit has initiated a Coroner's Inquest investigation and is asking for anyone who may have witnessed the accident to contact Officer Jason Foxworthy at (808) 326-4646 ext. 229. This was the 22nd traffic fatality this year on the island - the 23rd happened this morning on the north end of the island - compared to 28 at this time last year.
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HAWAIʻI BIRD CONSERVATION MARATHON will be held on Sunday, Dec. 15, beginning at 6 a.m. The third annual event supports endemic birds of Hawai‘i through the Hawai‘i Forest Institute for the KeauhouBirdConservationCenterDiscoveryForest in Volcano. Alan Ryan is taking over as Marathon Coordinator for Ornithologist/Race Director Robert Kennedy, who planned and organized the first two marathons. Registration is closed.
The second annual Hawai’i Bird Conservation Marathon last year raised $5,915 in donation for KBCCDiscoveryForest. The first race raised $4,188.
Those who donate $100 or more to the Hawai‘i Forest Institute are invited to a special behind the scenes tour of the Keauhou Bird Conservation Center Discovery Forest in Volcano from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 14. Add a comment on the Hawai‘i Forest Institute donation page that the donation is associated with the HBC Marathon. To mail a check and avoid credit card fees, make payable to Hawai‘i Forest Institute and mail to Alan Ryan, P.O. Box 89, Laupahoehoe, HI96764.
The USA Track & Field Certified Course (HI17001BK) is a Boston Qualifier. The race is sanctioned by USA Track & Field (C17055419). The course is rated as the 2nd Fastest Marathon Course in the United States by FindMyMarathon.com. The course begins at Volcano Golf and Country Club, then heads downhill to Hilo along Volcano Road/Mamalahoa Highway until mile marker 26.06. Runners then turn left onto Stainback Highway to finish in front of the Boy Scouts' Kīlauea Camp. Total drop is 3,792 feet, total gain is 54 feet, and average grade is 2.72 percent. For the first 15 miles, the course was surrounded by a mixture of Hawaiian hāpuʻu and ‘ōhi‘a rain forest, residential areas, and agricultural land. On a clear day, the course offers a view of Hawaiʻi's highest volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea.
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HOLIDAYS AT KAHUKU, presented by Friends of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, will be held Saturday, Dec. 14, 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.
Other activities at Kahuku Unit include:
Ranger Orientation Talk, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, at the Visitor Contact Station.
Guided Hikes, Saturdays and Sundays (except Saturday, Dec. 14), starting at at the VCS. Dec. 1, Pu’u o Lokuana Trail; Dec. 7, Realms and Divisions at Kahuku; Dec. 8 Pele and Hi’iaka; Dec. 15, ʻŌhiʻa Lehua; Dec. 21, Nature and Culture; Dec. 22, Palm Trail; Dec. 28 Birth of Kahuku; Dec. 29, People and Land.
Coffee Talk, Friday, Dec. 27 December's event is a special presentation by the National Park Service on the resident artist, landscape painter Dawn Waters Baker.
There are no entrance fees at Kahuku and all programs are free of charge. Kahuku will be closed Wednesday, Dec. 25 and Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020. See nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/kahuku.htm.
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NĀʻĀLEHU RODEO ARENA is seeing more action with the gymkhana in November and another coming up Sunday, Dec. 29 to be followed by an awards banquet and potluck dinner. The events are organized by Kaʻū Roping & Riding Association. This past Sunday's gymkhana results are:
In Open Barrel Racing, Lorilee Lorenzo took first place, Mahina Lorenzo placed second.
In Junior Barrel Racing, McClellan Akana placed first, Kircia Derasin took second.
In Leadline Barrel Racing, Devyn Akana took first, Noah took second, Malia Masuko took third,
More action is planned for Nāʻālehu Rodeo Arena
on Sunday, Dec. 29. Photo by Julia Neal
and Grayden Akana took fourth.
In Novice Horse Barrel Racing, Denicia Derain took first place on Uʻi, then she took second on Silver
In Keiki Barrel Racing, Teʻani Souza placed first, Molly Akana placed second, Ikaika Derasin placed third, Caya Wong placed fourth, and Quentin Lorenzo placed fifth.
In Keiki Single Stake Racing, Ikaika Derasin placed first, Molly Akana placed second, Caya Wong placed third, and Quentin Lorenzo placed fourth.
In Open Flag Racing, Mahina Lorenzo placed first. In Junior Flag Racing, Kircia Derasin took first place.
The final Gymkhana of 2019 on Sunday, Dec. 29 will start tentatively at , with check-in and sign-up at
Heading into Christmas, Kaʻū Roping & Riding will hold its second annual Lantern Parade on Saturday, Dec. 14 at on Hwy 11, the Main Street of Nāʻālehu. For the first time, horses will join in the procession.
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NĀʻĀLEHU SCHOOL ACTIVITIES for December include Family Reading Nights on
Wednesday, Dec. 18, at the Nāʻālehu School Cafeteria, and Thursday, Dec. 19, at the OceanViewCommunity Center. The events include family reading time and make & take activities; snacks provided.
Nāʻālehu Elementary School's Winter Break begins Monday, Dec. 23 and runs through Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020.
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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
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
‘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
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
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
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
Vendor Booth Space is Available for the Kamahalo Craft Fair. The 12th annual event will be held Thanksgiving weekend, Friday, Nov. 29, , and Saturday, Nov. 30, 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.
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.
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Many visitors are expected at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park during the holiday season. See tips from the Park on how to avoid the crowds and have a good visit, below. NPS photo
VOLCANO GOLF COURSE IS IN PLAY, with tee times between and daily, following the fire that burned the retail and administration portion of the country club building on Thursday, Nov. 14, with extensive smoke damage in the restaurant area. The new check-in point is within the golf cart shed.
The property is owned by Kamehameha Schools and operated by a Japanese company. Its spokesperson on island said the hope is to raze the building, and use insurance money, in part, to rebuild the facility. In the meantime, the undamaged greens and fairways with their large ʻōhiʻa and other native trees remains unscarred.
Golf course operators at Volcano Golf & Country Club are hoping to raze the building where smoke damage extends to the restaurant. Tee times remain from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Photo by Julia Neal
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AN INDUSTRIAL SOLAR DEVELOPER is renewing efforts for a green light from the state Public Utilities Commission to install solar farms among houses in three Ocean View neighborhoods. The plan is to build a 6.5 megawatt installation on 26 lots, precluding their use for houses. The project would require cutting down native ʻōhiʻa trees and installing industrial fences with signs reading "Danger" and "High Voltage" and "Keep Out."
The multi-national corporation, SPI Energy, headquartered in Hong Kong, recently asked the PUC to dismiss a formal complaint filed with the PUC by two Ranchos residents over three years ago. The complaint alleged that the utility companies, HECO and HELCO, did not hold the developers of the
6.5 megawatt solar project in Ocean View in compliance with the Feed in Tariff (FIT) program – the foundation of its permit request. SPI Energy controls 19 shell companies that leased the 26 sites in Ocean View for its project.
The complaint was filed in August 2016. In September 2016, then PUC Chair Randy Iwase suspended an application by HELCO for a high-voltage overhead transmission line to service the project, until the complaint could be resolved. Iwase told the Honolulu Star Advertiser at the time: "Nobody is going to move on the FIT project. We have suspended any action on the application pending a review or an investigation or resolution of the complaint filed by the (Annie and Peter) Bosteds.
Ranchos residents said they oppose leveling of the landscape for
industrial solar farms. Photo by Annie Bosted
Iwase was also quoted as saying that the FIT program is obsolete because the cost is too high.
Jeff Ono, then state Consumer Advocate, wrote: "It is apparent that the 26 solar project owners effectively 'gamed' the FIT process in order to avoid going through the more rigorous competitive bidding framework." He added that the original compensation rates of the projects are no longer in the public interest.
The Kaʻū Calendar has established that if the PUC were to dismiss the Bosteds' complaint, then ratepayers would pay 23.8 cents a kilowatt-hour for daytime-only power from the Ocean View project. A solar project in Oʻahu, that includes battery storage, is selling power for less than 8 cents per kilowatt hour. Hawaiʻi has the highest electricity rates in the nation, and the state's ratepayers have paid 280 percent more per kilowatt hour than the U.S. average over the past ten years, according to ValueAct Capital.
Since 2016, the PUC's three commissioners and Consumer Advocate are new. Commissioners are James P. Griffin, Chair, Jennifer M. Potter, and Leodoloff "Leo" R. Asuncion. The former chief executive of Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co, Jay Ignacio, has retired. The former spokesman for SPI Energy has also been replaced.
Complainant Peter Bosted told The Kaʻū Calendar: "I see this as a last-ditch effort by the developers to persuade the PUC to not investigate how HECO and HELCO mismanaged the FIT program to the advantage of the developers and to the detriment of the ratepayers.
"We have been patiently waiting for our day in court. We have presented our case according to the PUC's schedule and are waiting for the PUC's considered verdict. SPI Energy does not want that.
A Kona solar farm similar to the ones planned for 26 sites in three Ocean View neighborhoods. Photo by Annie Bosted
"They want the PUC to end the case on their say so. Their 130-page memo is written as though SPI Energy is a defendant, not an intervenor. We are faulted for not stating a claim 'under which relief can be granted.' In other words, we won't be bought off. HECO and HELCO are the respondents, so if anyone should be negotiating, it's them, not SPI Energy.
"We want this case to be scrutinized and the FIT Program to be ended. SPI Energy obviously wants to make money from the over-priced lemon they bought," added Bosted.
Former President of the Ranchos Road Maintenance Corporation, Mats Fogelvik, told The Kaʻū Calendar that time has not mellowed the Ocean View community's opposition to the project. "Everyone I know is dead against this boondoggle project. If SPI tries to build here, they will have to contend with sabotage and grass roots resistance bar none.
"Other solar developers are building two huge solar projects near Waikaloa, and the power from that will cost ratepayers about 7 cents to 8 cents a kWh. Those developers reached out to the Waikaloa community in meetings, and received the community's prior approval.
"Here, HELCO and SPI Energy colluded to keep us all in the dark until they needed our approval for the overhead transmission line. And even then we were told that it was a 'done deal' and resistance would be futile. The Bosteds' complaint says otherwise. I really hope the PUC scrutinizes the case," added Fogelvik. See more history of the project in tomorrow's Kaʻū Calendar News Briefs.
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Avoiding the crowded summit area between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. is one tip from Park rangers on how to have a good visit during the holiday season. NPS photo
AVOID CROWDS AT HAWAIʻI VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK this holiday season by following tips from the Park. Hit the park website before hitting the trail. Avoid the crowded summit area between
The website, nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes, is the first stop all visitors and tour operators before coming to the Park. Recent updates includes the Plan Your Adventure landing page that features tips to avoid crowds, off-the-beaten-path destinations, what not to do, and how to stay safe.
Most visitors stop at KīlaueaVisitorCenter for information, to watch the park movie, or to join a ranger-guided hike, but changes are coming to serve visitors during the holiday surge, according to a statement from the Park. The visitor center and the Park store, run by Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association, will open an hour earlier, at 8 a.m., and close at 5 p.m., starting Friday, Dec. 20 through Monday, Jan. 6, 2020. Some ranger programs will relocate to the coast and Chain of Craters Road destinations, like Mauna Ulu. The 20-minute park movie, Born of Fire, Born of the Sea, will only be shown before and after , with six shows a day through Jan. 18, 2020. A shorter orientation film will replace it.
Said Acting Superintendent Rhonda Loh, "We plan for and experience robust visitation every winter season, but the closure of JaggarMuseum and Kīlauea Overlook due to the destructive 2018 eruption has dramatically reduced the number of parking stalls. We don't want to turn anyone away from visiting the park, so we're relying on visitors to take our advice, arrive earlier, explore less-visited areas, and drive safely."
Top Ranger Tips for a happy holiday visit to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park are:
Packed parking areas and lots of traffic between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. are expected at the Park during the holiday season, especially around Christmas and the New Year. NPS photo
Turn Left for Adventure and Less Crowded Trails. When you enter the park, get in the left lane, and turn left at the entrance station to drive down the 19-mile Chain of Craters Road towards the Park's dramatic lava-covered coast. Stop at crater pullouts along the way, hike along the Mauna Ulu fissure eruption, connect to Hawaiian culture at Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs, and enjoy scenic overlooks and the Hōlei Sea Arch.
Kīlauea Iki Trail. If Kīlauea Iki is on your must-hike list, set your alarm or set your sights on a different trail. This newly reopened four-mile loop trail is the most popular hike in the park and parking at the trailhead is jam-packed after Park at Devastation Trail parking lot instead. Adding another 2.2 miles to your trek will subtract the stress. Plan to hit the trail by , and be out by
Sunrise at the Summit. Watching sunrise over Kīlauea caldera from Steaming Bluff is a mystical experience, and all the proof you need that Kīlauea is still very much an active volcano. It's also an ideal time to ponder the summit collapse that occurred during the 2018 eruption. The Park is open 24 hours, 365 days a year, except for Kahuku Unit – see holiday schedule and more info on Kahuku activities on yesterday's blog.
Mauna Loa Road is well worth exploring during peak hours, especially in good weather. Kīpukapuaulu offers an easy, forested hike, and the views and birding are excellent along the way to the Mauna Loa Overlook at 6,662 feet.
Visit Kahuku. Kahuku is free, never crowded, and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Located on the mauka (inland) side of Highway 11 near mile marker 70.5 in Ka‘ū.
Leave your drone at home. Recreational drones are not allowed in Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park. They disturb wildlife, interfere with park operations, and bother people trying to enjoy natural sounds.
Take the Pono Pledge. Vow to stay safe, and to ensure your Park's incredible geologic, natural and cultural resources are here for future generations to behold by taking the Pono Pledge. Pono means "the right thing to do" in Hawaiian. Be pono!
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COASTAL FLOODING IS POSSIBLE through Friday along Kaʻū shores, warns the National Weather Service. All shores of the main Hawaiian Islands could be impacted due to unusually high water levels. The greatest potential for coastal flooding impacts will be during the peak high tides, which will occur before sunrise during the early morning hours. Visit tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov for more specific information about forecast tides and water levels. Impacts of the high tides, up to six inches above normal, may include flooding of beaches that are normally dry, salt water inundation of typically vulnerable low-lying roads, docks boat ramps, and other coastal infrastructure. The potential for coastal flooding will diminish late in the week as the peak daily tides diminish.
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‘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
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
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
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
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
Vendor Booth Space is Available for the Kamahalo Craft Fair. The 12th annual event will be held Thanksgiving weekend, Friday, Nov. 29, , and Saturday, Nov. 30, 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.
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 808-938-1088.
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Micronesians are among those who can travel freely to Hawaiʻi, live here and receive many U.S. public services. Rep. Ed case is calling for Congress to extend these services which have been in place since 1986. He and Rep. Tulsi Gabbard ask for the federal government to reimburse Hawaiʻi. Photo from Grass Roots Institute of Hawaiʻi
REIMBURSE COSTS OF PUBLIC SERVICES FOR MARSHALLESE and other migrants to Hawaiʻi from Pacific islands covered by the federal Compacts of Free Association. That is the proposal from Congressman Ed Case, who formerly represented Kaʻū in Congress and now represents urban Oʻahu. The COFA covers islanders who come from Republic of the Marshall Islands, Republic of Palau, and Federated States of Micronesia. Together these islands form the Freely Associated States.
The Compacts of Free Association between United States and Freely Associated States were approved in 1986 and give the U.S. exclusive access to land for military bases in exchange for the islanders to be able to travel and live in the U.S., and receive public services. The agreement is undergoing renegotiation to extend it. Under COFA, these Pacific islanders can live and work in the United States - and participate in public education, health, and other benefits - and the costs to Hawaiʻi and other jurisdictions providing services is supposed to be addressed through federal payments, said Case is a statement released today. "Referred to as Compact Impact aid, the funds have not covered the actual costs to affected jurisdictions." Many of these islanders live in Kaʻū and send their children to local schools here.
Islanders from the Marianas, Palu, Federated States of Micronesia, and the Marshall Islands are covered by the Compacts of Free Association, which allow them to freely travel here and receive services, in exchange for the U.S. government maintaining exclusive access to land for military operations.
Case - joined by Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Guam Delegate Michael San Nicolas, and Northern Mariana Islands Delegate Gregorio Sablan - wrote a letter to the Secretaries of Defense, State, and the Interior, the federal departments most directly involved in FAS matters. The group called on the Administration to "explicitly address full and adequate Compact aid to all disproportionately affected jurisdictions" as part of the renegotiation. COFA renewals must be approved by Congress.
Said Case, "Unfortunately, the related costs of FAS migrants residing in Hawai‘i, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Samoa have ballooned far beyond the assistance provided by our federal government, and the affected jurisdictions can no longer reasonably be expected to bear the burden of this federal responsibility.
Case cited as an example that in 2003, when the RMI and FSM Compacts were renewed, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated around 20,000 FAS migrants in these four jurisdictions. "As of 2018, that estimate has grown to more than 38,000 FAS migrants, with the vast majority in Hawai‘i and Guam," said Case.
Case said that not only has the total number of migrants grown over the years, the but so have the public services cost of each migrant. "For Fiscal Year 2018 alone, the State of Hawai‘i estimated costs of about $198 million for direct services to support FAS migrants for primarily health and education, and Guam reported more than $147 million in such costs for Fiscal Year 2017."
In contrast, Case pointed out, "for Fiscal Year 2019 Compact impact aid, the U.S. Department of Interior distributed just $16.8 million for Guam, $2.3 million for the Northern Mariana Islands, $23,000 for American Samoa – and $14.8 million for Hawai‘i.
"In short, the actual impact of the Compacts on our jurisdictions far exceeds existing federal assistance – and that gap is growing and can only be expected to continue to grow," said Case. "As a result, our state and territorial governments bear a disproportionate responsibility for the Compacts in the form of the significant and growing financial costs associated with FAS migrants.
"While we welcome the important and growing contributions of FAS migrant communities in our jurisdictions and recognize the national security value of the Compacts, the status quo is financially unsustainable for our jurisdictions. Without corresponding increases of guaranteed federal assistance to fully reimburse our jurisdictions being included as part and parcel of the Congressional Compact extension approval process, we will find it difficult to support Compact renewal," said Case.
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OPPOSITION TO INDUSTRIAL SOLAR INSTALLATIONS that would cover 26 lots in three Ocean View neighborhood is based, in part, on the project being proposed eight years ago and the changing economics of affordable electricity in the meantime, according to complaints filed with the state Public Utilities Commission. See the Tuesday, Nov. 26 Kaʻū News Briefs. In 2011, SPI Energy's predecessors, Solar Hub Utilities and RevoluSun, were admitted to the Feed in Tarrif Program to produce electricity to be sold to Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co, based on their declaration that they would complete Ocean View installations between August 2012 and January 2013. It was a time when incentives were abundant for solar projects, including pricing that was higher than now.
The Ocean View community only became aware of Solar Hub's plans via a news report in West Hawaiʻi Today in May, 2013. At that time, readers were told that construction "could begin as soon as 60 - 90 days." However, at a meeting with Solar Hub's spokesman,Pat Shudak, the community voiced objection to the project that would place lotline to lot-line solar installation within neighborhoods. During two years of inactivity, from May 2013 to June 2015, residents assumed that the project had fallen through. However, on June 15, 2015, Hawaiʻi Electric Light Co. reserved the Ocean View Community Center to announce plans for a new substation and transmission line to service the project. At that meeting, a HELCO spokesperson said that the project would include eight more sites and would be built by SPI Energy. She said that it was a "done deal." Community resistance to the project grew, with meetings, numerous letters to the PUC, a petition, a referendum, video news and regular press, magazine, and blog reports. To date, no site work has been done by SPI Energy. However, the company has asked that complaints, opposing the project be dismissed. Ocean View residents responded that the cost of electricity produced by the project would be higher than other sources and despoil their neighborhoods. See yesterday's Kaʻū News Briefs.
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ENDING HOMELESSNESS AND HOUSING POVERTY in the U.S. is the goal of legislation introduced by Senators Mazie Hirono, Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Cory Booker (D-NJ). The Pathway to Stable and Affordable Housing for All Act lays out a ten-year investment in federal housing and homelessness programs that the National Low Income Housing Coalition estimates would effectively end homelessness and housing poverty in the United States, stated Hirono in a press release. "The Act would provide a long-term, dependable level of investment in four federal housing programs that have proven successful in combating homelessness and housing poverty across the country: Emergency Solutions Grants, Continuum of Care Grants, the Housing Trust Fund, and tenant-based rental assistance," said a statement from Hirono.
She said that "Communities and service providers in Hawaiʻi and across the country do the best they can with the resources they have to help our neighbors in need. However, federal dollars simply don't go far enough. At the same time, too many workers and families struggle to get and keep affordable rental housing. The Pathway to Stable and Affordable Housing for All Act rejects the divisive policies of the Trump Administration, and lays out the sustained, 10-year federal investment that on-the-ground providers and experts estimate is needed to help get those most in need off the street and into supportive, safe housing quickly and expand affordable housing stock for the long-term."
Said Gillibrand, "No one should ever be without a place to call home, but there are far too many families in New York and across the country facing homelessness. Access to safe and affordable housing should be a basic human right in the United States."
The Act aims to help states and organizations get those experiencing homelessness into shelter quickly and efficiently, and expand access to safe, affordable housing. Emergency Solutions and Continuum of Care would each receive $10 billion more per year. The Housing Trust Fund would receive $40 billion more per year. Tenant-based rental assistance (vouchers) would be fully funded.
The Pathways to Stable and Affordable Housing for All Act has the support of the National Low Income Housing Coalition and the National Alliance to End Homelessness.
Diane Yentel, President and CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition, said, "Through robust investments in the national Housing Trust Fund, housing vouchers, and homeless assistance grants, Senator Hirono's bill addresses the underlying, systemic causes of the affordable housing and homelessness crisis: the widening gap between incomes and housing costs and severe shortage of homes affordable and available to the lowest-income people. We must build the political will to enact this important bill."
Nan Roman, President and CEO of the National Alliance to End Homelessness, said, the Act "will address the critical need for more help for those in our nation who are struggling to keep roofs over their heads. The bill recognizes that homelessness results largely from the lack of affordable housing – while also acknowledging that until the national gap in affordable housing is filled, short-term assistance will be needed by people who have become homeless. It provides to-scale support for the most effective homeless programs, the Continuum of Care Program and the Emergency Solutions Grant Program. Similarly, it increases support for highly effective housing programs: the Housing Choice Voucher Program and the National Housing Trust Fund. The National Alliance to End Homelessness thanks the Senator for her leadership in meeting the needs of some of the nation's most vulnerable people."
The release from Hirono states that, in September, the Trump Administration "took aim at those experiencing homelessness in the US, releasing a report targeting a handful of states and cities and offering policy responses like increasing policing of this vulnerable community and rounding up and relocating homeless communities in an 'out of sight, out of mind' approach. At the time, the president said that homeless individuals were taking over 'our best highways and our best streets' and that 'sick' homeless individuals were ruining US cities. On Nov. 14, the executive director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness was ousted from the role he's held since 2015.
"On top of targeting those already experiencing homelessness, the Administration has repeatedly taken steps that would increase the number of families and individuals living in unstable housing situations and those at risk of homelessness. Every budget they have put forward zeros out critical programs aimed at alleviating homelessness and housing poverty. Congress has rejected these cuts, which would dismantle our current federal homelessness and affordable housing response framework and leave already-under resourced states, cities, and service providers with less tools to address homelessness and the affordable housing crisis," said Hirono.
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STATE REP. RICHARD CREAGAN WILL DISCUSS HIS 2020 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA at the Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United, Kaʻū Chapter, meeting on Saturday, Nov. 30, at Pāhala Plantation House. Creagan is Chair of the state House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture. All persons working or interested in agriculture are invited. A potluck lunch will be served.
HFUU Pres. Matt Drayer, a farmer and chef in Wood Valley, said that plans are being made by the organization for 2020, including agriculture education, events, and reviewing legislation and issues before the county, state, and federal policymakers that affect Kaʻū.
For more information on HFUU, call Drayer at 808-339-8737.
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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 volcanovillage artistshui.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
Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United, Kaʻū Chapter, meeting on Saturday, Nov. 30 from at Pāhala Plantation House. All persons working or interested in agriculture are invited. A potluck lunch will be served. Learn of plans for 2020, including agriculture education, events, and reviewing legislation and issues before the county, state, and federal policymakers that affect Kaʻū. Rep. Richard Creagan, Chair of the state House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture, will announce his 2020 legislative goals. For more information on HFUU, call Pres. Matt Drayer at 808-339-8737. AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 30, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org
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
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
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
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. 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, , and Saturday, Nov. 30, 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.
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 808-938-1088.
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Vote on the best decorated Kīlauea Military Camp Cottage, in Hawai‘iVolcanoes National Park, starting the day after Thanksgiving. See details on KMC holiday offerings, below. Photo of past display from Hawaiʻi Army Weekly
WITHDRAWING TROOPS FROM PROTECTING OIL WELLS IN SYRIA is the goal of legislation introduced by Rep. Tulsi Gabbard on Wednesday. U.S. House Constitutional Resolution 77 would require the withdrawal of U.S.troops based in Syria. It flies in the face of Pres. Donald Trump's directive to secure Syrian oil fields.
Said Gabbard, "Our troops put their lives on the line to support and defend the Constitution of the United States, and ensure the safety and security of the American people. President Trump's deployment of US troops to secure Syrian oil fields that do not belong to us, with talks of welcoming in private oil corporations to take the oil, is unconstitutional and a violation of International Law. Syria's natural resources belong to the Syrian people. Congress must fulfill its Constitutional mandate and vote for this resolution to bring our troops home from Syria."
The resolution is supported by Demand Progress and non-profit organization Just Foreign Policy.
Said Erik Sperling, Executive Director of Just Foreign Policy, "Congress has not authorized troops to 'secure oil' in Syriaor to participate in hostilities against the governments of Russia, Iran, or Syria. Under Article I of the Constitution and the War Powers Resolution of 1973, the President cannot deploy troops into hostilities without prior Congressional authorization. I commend Rep. Gabbard for introducing this resolution which will compel all members of the House to vote yes or no on endless war in front of their constituents."
According to a statement from Gabbard, "Earlier this month, Trump announced the removal of U.S.troops from northern Syria, transferring them to other locations within Syriaor Iraq. The move provided the opening for Turkeyto invade Syriaand commence ethnic cleansing of the Syrian Kurds who have been trusted partners in the battle to defeat ISIS."
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Nāʻālehu Elementary Alumni staff, 1st row: tutor Dora Sakamoto, teacher Alice Yonemitsu, teacher Daniel Duffy,
teacher May Doi, teacher Masako Sakata, current principal Darlene Javar, principal Peter Volpe, teacher Fran Volpe,
teacher Gloria Camba, teacher Julie Tabulin, Daniel's wife Susan Duffy, and cafeteria manager Sumiye Takaki.
Photo from Nāʻālehu School
NĀʻĀLEHU ELEMENTARY SCHOOL'S FRIENDRAISER last weekend hosted about 250-300 people, despite the high winds. Held on the school grounds, the annual event raises funds for the Nāʻālehu School Council, but the main intent is creating a space to "raise friends." Attendees enjoyed carnival-style games, food and fun, as well as a rummage sale tent where nothing was priced over 50 cents.
ʻO Kaʻū Kākou gave out free shave ice
to excited students last weekend at the
Nāʻālehu Elementary Friendraiser.
Photo by Amberly Javar
Former school staff also reunited during the Friendraiser, with current teacher Janice Ogi giving a guided tour of the campus. "Everyone was happy to see each other after so much time," shared former teacher Masako Sakata.
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FLIGHT PLANS from Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park for December are as follows:
Saturday, Dec. 2, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and Tuesday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to shuttle crew and equipment from Chain of Craters Road at 2,000-ft. elevation to ‘Āpua, Keauhou, and Halapē beaches, and extract hawksbill turtle monitoring equipment.
Sunday, Dec. 3 and Tuesday, Dec. 5, from to , for petrel monitoring from the summit of Kīlauea to Mauna Loabetween 8,000- and 9,000-ft. elevation.
Sunday, Dec. 3 and Monday, Dec. 4, from to , for crew and equipment transport to the Kahuku-Kapāpala boundary between 5,000- and 9,000-ft. elevation.
Sunday, Dec. 10, , for ungulate surveys near the Ka‘ū desert boundary between sea level and 1,500-ft. elevation.
Sunday, Dec. 10, to , for petrel monitoring from the summit of Kīlaueaon Mauna Loa between 8,000- and 9,000-ft. elevation.
Sunday, Dec. 10 and Wednesday, Dec. 13, , for transport of field equipment from the end of Hilina Pali Road to Pepeiao Cabin for vegetation monitoring.
Sunday, Dec. 17, to , for transport of fence material and field equipment from the ‘Ōla‘a Tract.
Monday, Dec. 18, for ungulate surveys near Mauna Loa Road from 4,000- to 9,000-ft. elevation.
Tuesday, Dec. 19, , for transport of fence material and field equipment from the Kīpuka Kī and Keauhou-Ka‘ū boundary to 4,000-ft. elevation.
In addition, the U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory may conduct flight operations over Kīlauea and Mauna Loato assess volcanic activity and maintain instrumentation.
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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VOLCANO VILLAGE ARTISTS HUI ART STUDIO TOUR & SALE will be held Friday and Saturday, Nov. 29 and 30, and Monday, Dec. 1. The public is invited to the 33rd annual event to meet village artists in their studios and see artwork in a wide variety of media. Artwork will be on display and available for purchase at six studios and galleries in the heart of VolcanoVillage.
New this year, there will be art making demonstrations at each studio/gallery location on Sunday, Dec. 1. "Make and take" earrings with Zeke Israel, watch Ira Ono create a clay mask at 11 a.m., and see demonstrations of various other clay techniques by Erik Wold, Emily Herb, and Charlotte Forbes Perry, all at their respective studio locations. Lisa Louise Adams and Joan Yoshioka will be showing their painting skills, Liz Miller will share her metal tooling techniques, and Joe Laceby will be doing hot metal forging demos at the Volcano Art Center location throughout the day on Sunday, just to name a few of the offerings. Also showing their work this year will be Pam Barton, Mag Barnaby, Misato and Michael Mortara, Ricia Shema, Cynee Gillette-Wenner, Randy Sutton, and Scott Pincus.
A special drawing for artwork contributed by each of the artists will be held at the end of the sale. Sale hours are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, For more information, call (808) 987-3472. Maps to the artists' studios will be available at local businesses and galleries in the Volcano, and at VolcanoVillageArtistsHui.com.
Christmas in the Country, the VolcanoArtCenter holiday exhibit, will also expand to the Niʻaulani Campus in VolcanoVillageon Friday and Saturday. The Hale Hoʻomana building will feature a preview of the exhibit and program offerings for the upcoming year and host members of the Volcano Hui, displaying handmade art and gifts as part of the annual Volcano Hui Tour. Live poinsettia will be on display and available for purchase as a fundraiser for VolcanoSchool of Arts & Sciences.
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KAMAHALO CRAFT FAIR will be held Friday, Nov. 29, , and Saturday, Nov. 30, The 12th annual event offers a selection of more than 30 vendors of local crafters with quality homemade and homegrown products. Cooper Center Council volunteers will make hearty soups and food for hungry shoppers.
The Kamahalo Craft Fair is a project of the Cooper Center Council. Proceeds are used to fund community activities and projects such as the Friends Feeding Friends hot meal program.
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VOTE FOR THE BEST COTTAGE DECORATIONS at Kīlauea Military Camp beginning Friday, Nov. 29. The public is invited to stroll along the sidewalks around the KMC Cottages where the staff has entered a contest for best Christmas decorations. The outdoor displays are best seen at night. Voting runs through Jan. 1. KMC is located within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
KMC hosts a Christmas Day dinner buffet, , on Dec. 25 at Crater Rim Café. Main entrees of Prime Rib, Roast Turkey, and Holiday Lamb Stew. $29.95/adult, $16.95/child for ages 6-11, five and under free. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.
The KMC New Year's Eve Party on Tuesday, Dec. 31 from at the Lava Lounge will have live music from Blue Tattoo. The $10 cover charge includes a champagne toast at . Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply.
KMC Cottages light up the night, competing for best décor. Photo of past display by Dave Berry
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HVO SCIENTISTS MENTORED STEM STUDENTS at this year's national conference to promote diversity in Honolulu. Volcano Watch, written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geophysicist Jefferson Chang covers what happened at the conference:
About a month ago, I attended the 2019 National Diversity in STEM Conference, an annual meeting organized by the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) and held in Honoluluthis year.
SACNAS STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) conferences are unique in that they focus on fostering diversity and inclusion. They are attended primarily by students and professionals. As a student, it is an invaluable experience to see examples of and interact with successful professionals that look like you. As a professional, it is an opportunity to mentor future scientists.
The conference got me thinking about where I came from, and how I ended up as a geophysicist at USGS HVO. I did not have a mentor or example to guide me.
I grew up on the windward side of O‘ahu, in a modest family that barely made ends meet. I rode my bike or walked to Waimānalo Intermediate, and later caught TheBus to KailuaHigh School. I was an average kid.
Sometimes, I made good grades; other times, I made poor decisions. My teachers often sent home progress reports that said or hinted at something to the effect of "has potential" or "needs to apply himself." Come to think of it, I probably made more poor decisions than good grades.
I finished high school, ranking somewhere in the middle of my class. I had no plans—and no clue.
Jefferson Chang (far left) was one of four USGS HVO scientists who spoke about monitoring Hawaiian volcanoes and mentored students at the 2019 National Diversity in STEM Conference in Honolulu. The Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science organizes these annual meetings to foster underrepresented students in science, technology, engineering and math. HVO colleagues Kevan Kamibayashi and Patricia Nadeau, across from Chang, helped staff the USGS exhibit during the conference. USGS photo by A. Scott
Through a bizarre turn of events, I enrolled at LeewardCommunity College on the other side of the island from where I lived. There, I took an introductory geology class, which, unbeknownst to me at the time, was the first in a series of fortunate events.
While taking 18-21 credits per semester at LCC, I worked full-time to pay for housing. I also had a second full-time job to pay for food and expenses. This was the normal hustle for my peers and me. I was just an average adult on Oʻahu.
After a few years of working toward a two-year degree, I decided that it was not sustainable. I left Hawaii to find a college on the mainland. I now had a plan—but still no clue.
While enrolling in NorthernArizonaUniversity, I was caught off-guard when the admissions official asked me to declare a major. As I strained to remember the classes I took in high school and LCC, the word "geology" came out of my mouth. I said it on a whim. It was a topic that I had only known for one fleeting semester.
Geology—the study of the earth. That one word impetuously muttered so many years ago set the course for the rest of my life.
During my undergraduate, master's, and doctoral studies, I received grants and awards. I conducted and presented my research around the world. I advised policy-makers on state-wide legislations. I also drifted a long way from the little town of Waimānalo.
Living in Hawaiʻi and being a scientist had never connected in my head. I had no role model, so the two seemed disconnected. That changed when I met a stranger at the airport after attending an American Geophysical Union conference.
"You’re from Honolulu, right?" he asked, which seemed oddly specific. Maybe he noticed my Locals® slippers.
Locals® "slippahs" are a distinctive item of clothing to USGS HVO geophysicist Jefferson Chang
He was an HVO research geophysicist and reminded me that the Island of Hawai‘i has active volcanoes, which generate substantial seismicity. More importantly, he made me realize that there was indeed a place for local scientists in Hawaiʻi.
About a year after that chance meeting, I started my career as a USGS HVO geophysicist, monitoring Hawaiian volcanoes and earthquakes.
There is a disturbing lack of diversity in science, so representation matters. SACNAS works to ensure that underrepresented students in STEM get the support they need to succeed.
Not all scientists look like Einstein or wear lab coats. Some of us lucky ones get to wear "slippahs."
Because of my past experiences, I engage with students whenever possible, which is why I attended the SACNAS STEM conference. My hope is that students never have to choose between pursuing their dream careers and staying close to their roots.
Volcano Activity Updates
Kῑlauea Volcano is not erupting and its USGS Volcano Alert level remains at NORMAL. Kīlauea monitoring data showed no notable changes over the past week. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are low at the summit and below detection limits at Puʻu ʻŌʻō and the lower East Rift Zone (LERZ). The water lake at the bottom of Halema‘uma‘u continues to slowly expand and deepen.
Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert level remains at ADVISORY. This alert level does not mean that an eruption is imminent or that progression to an eruption is certain. This past week, about 36 small-magnitude earthquakes (all less than M2.0) were detected beneath the upper elevations of Mauna Loa. Deformation measurements show continued summit inflation. Fumarole temperature and gas concentrations on the Southwest Rift Zone remain stable.
HVO continues to closely monitor both Kīlauea and Mauna Loa for any signs of increased activity. Visit volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvo for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake info, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.
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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
Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United, Kaʻū Chapter, meeting on Saturday, Nov. 30 from at Pāhala Plantation House. All persons working or interested in agriculture are invited. A potluck lunch will be served. Learn of plans for 2020, including agriculture education, events, and reviewing legislation and issues before the county, state, and federal policymakers that affect Kaʻū. Rep. Richard Creagan, Chair of the state House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture, will announce his 2020 legislative goals. For more information on HFUU, call Pres. Matt Drayer at 808-339-8737. AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 30, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org
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
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
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
Christmas in the Country featuring 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit, daily, through Dec. 31, Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org
P&R T-Ball League Registration, through Jan. 6, KahukuPark. Ages 5-6. Program to take place Dec. 2 - April 16, 3:30-4:30pm. Athletic shoes required. Contact Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511.
P&R Coach Pitch Baseball League Registration, through Jan. 6, KahukuPark. Ages 7-8. Program to take place Dec. 2 - April 16, 4:30-6pm. Athletic shoes, glove, and uniform required. Contact Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511.
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 808-938-1088.
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Last year, keiki decorated floating lanterns for a commemoration of loved ones at Punaluʻu Medicine Pond.
See Saturday, Nov. 30 event details below. Photo by Julia Neal
STATE SEN. KAI KAHELE SENT OUT A THANKSGIVING WEEKEND MESSAGE. It said, in part, that for the last 50 years, this day has "been known for marking the solemn remembrance of America's complicated history." He noted that, since 1970, Native Americans and other indigenous peoples have called upon allies and supporters to join them at noon on Cole's Hill on Thanksgiving Day in Plymouth to recognize their National Day of Mourning, as a means of bringing awareness to the ongoing struggles of Native peoples throughout the United States and the world. "It is also the Hawaiian national holiday of Lā Kū'oko'a first recognized on Nov. 28, 1843, when Great Britain and France acknowledged the Hawaiian islands as an independent nation.
Kai Kahele and family send a Thanksgiving
aloha. Photo from Kai Kahele
"As a native Hawaiian man of mixed heritage from a state home to many people of mixed ethnicities, I have the privilege of continuously navigating histories and identities that are complex and nuanced. I firmly believe these complexities make us stronger as a community, as we have the great fortune of uplifting cultural traditions from across the globe.... "Throughout my entire life, I was taught that we can bridge divides through respect and aloha. In this time of great divisiveness, it is easy to focus on what we don't agree on but rather, let's focus on what binds us together. Our commitment to freedom, equality, and justice. Having compassion for one another. The belief that our best days are ahead of us if we are willing to keep working, to keep fighting and to keep reaching for a higher plateau."
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CHRISTMAS PACKAGES HEADING OUT FROM HAWAIʻI through the U.S. Postal Service should be sent before the daily cutoff dates just released: Mail First-Class and Priority headed to international and overseas military destinations, including Samoa, by next Friday, Dec. 6. First-Class and Priority mail headed to Guam and Saipancan be mailed as late as Friday, Dec. 13. First-Class and Priority mail headed to the mainland should be sent by Thursday, Dec. 19, and Dec. 20 for Hawaiʻi-bound mail.
Expedited Priority Express packages and letters for international and overseas military destinations should be sent by Friday, Dec. 13; to Samoa by Saturday, Dec. 14; to Guam and Saipan by Thursday, Dec. 19, and by all to mainland destinations and Hawaiʻi locations by Saturday, Dec. 21.
"Seasons Greeting from Hawaii" is on some specially marked Priority Mail boxes. Photo from Twitter, @bobbecka
USPS asks postal customers, "Keep in mind that the suggested mailing dates are not deadlines, implying that packages or letters will not arrive at their destinations if mailed after the listed dates. In fact, if normal holiday conditions prevail, chances are good that letters and packages sent shortly after the suggested dates will still make it to their destinations before Christmas. Ultimately, unpredictable factors such as mailing volumes and weather determine whether deliveries can be made early or on time." USPS suggests using Priority Mail Flat Rate Boxes to lower shipping costs. Customers can send up to 70 pounds in Medium Flat Rate Boxes to domestic locations for $14.35. Large Flat Rate Boxes, which hold 50 percent more (with the same 70-pound limit), can be sent for $19.95. For overseas military destinations, up to 70 pounds can be shipped in the military Large Flat Rate Box to most APO and FPO locations for $18.45. Priority Mail and Priority Express envelopes and boxes include day-specific delivery, improved tracking, and free insurance, and are available for free at local Post Offices. A limited number of boxes have "Seasons Greetings from Hawaii" printed on the side.
Self Service Ship & Mail Centers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in Hiloand Kona post offices.
USPS.com can be sued to pay for postage and to print out mailing labels. Use usps.com/pickup for package pick up from home or office, usually on the next business day, for free. Prepaid and labeled mail can be dropped off at a Post Office without waiting in line.
A statement from USPS said, "Soon after Hawaiʻi residents have finished digesting their Thanksgiving turkeys their thoughts will turn to Black Friday shopping and holiday gift shipping. The Postal Service is happy to assist its customers with those efforts by providing suggested holiday mailing dates specific to Hawaiʻi, news on extended holiday services, information about convenient self-service options, and holiday mailing tips."
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MORE BENEFITS FOR VETERANS AND THEIR CAREGIVERS will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2020. Sen. Schatz authored a bill, signed into law last year, that allowed the Department of Defense to expand access to military commissaries, exchanges, and recreation facilities to more veterans and caregivers. Thousands of veterans in Hawai‘i may be eligible for these new benefits. Eligible veterans and caregivers include: Purple Heart recipients; former prisoners of war; all veterans with service-connected disabilities; and individuals approved and designated as the primary family caregivers of eligible veterans under the Department of Veterans Affairs Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.
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Evergreens like this Norfolk pine are a familiar sight in some parts of Hawaiʻi Island. Cultivation of this and other species will be discussed on Wednesday in Hilo. Photo by Forest & Kim Starr, from llifle.com
GROWING CHRISTMAS TREES IN HAWAIʻI AND INVASIVE SPECIES CONTROL will be discussed at the Hawai‘i Farm Bureau Annual Meeting and Educational Seminar on Wednesday, December 4 from to at the Cooperative Extension Conference Room D202, located at 875 Komohana Street in Hilo.
The community is invited to the free meeting; chili bowl will be provided as well as prize giveaways.
Aileen Yeh, horticulturalist with the Hawaiʻi Agriculture Research Center, will give a presentation on Hawai‘i Forest Industry Association's Mid-to-Low Elevation Christmas Tree Project. Other speakers include: Luana Beck, of Hilo County Farm Bureau; Randy Cabral, of Hawaiʻi State Farm Bureau; and Franny Brewer of the Big Island Invasive Species Committee, who will talk about albizia trees, little fire ants, and new invasive species. Yeh's presentation will center on on-going demonstrations that conifer species can be grown at mid-to-low elevations, including identifying the species and cultivars that produce acceptable Christmas trees – in pots and in the ground. Yeh will also report on out plantings at different elevations being done with collaborators, complementing HFIA's higher elevation Douglas fir plantings.
This project's goals are to help expand a fledgling local Christmas tree industry by identifying a variety of species to replace imported trees at different elevations. Potential species are: LeylandCypress, xCupressocyparis leylandii; Norfolkor Cooke Island Pine, Araucaria sp.; Monterey Pine, Pinus radiate; and Cypress species, Cupressus spp. The long-term goal of this effort is reduced imported container stock; reduced alien species introductions; and reduced workload of State Agricultural inspectors. HFIA's Mid-to-Low Elevation Christmas Tree Project received funding from State of Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Marketing Service, and County of Hawai‘i Department of Research & Development. RSVP to hfia@hawaiiforest.org by tomorrow, Saturday, Nov. 30. For more information about the meeting, please contact Aileen Yeh, ayeh@hawaii.rr.com, or Laila Jayyousi, kalua1@hotmail.com.
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Medicine Pond at Punaluʻu last year, with a lineup of
keiki and the emcee Kelsey Hiraishi launching
floating lanterns to honor family and friends.
Photo by Peter Anderson
KAʻŪ RURAL HEALTH ASSOCIATIONS ANNUAL FLOATING LANTERN CELEBRATION, "Honoring Past, Present, & Future Generations," will be held Saturday, Nov. 30, from to at Punaluʻu Black Sands Beach Park, in Medicine Pond. Pre-registration to participate is closed. Funds for lanterns, photos, and t-shirts go toward scholarships.
Last year's event included live music and taiko drumming, a Tai Chi and Qigong demonstration, and a spaghetti dinner.
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 MILLION DREAMS benefit concert, hosted by Kīlauea Drama and Entertainment Network, features Pedro Kaʻawaloa, Norman Arancon, Paige Mason, and Mikala Thomas as they perform some of their favorite songs. The one day only show, on Saturday, Nov. 30, offers pieces ranging from pop and jazz favorites to some great hits from Broadway, both old and new. There will be a matinee show and a evening show at ChristLutheranChurch, 595 Kapiolani Street in Hilo. This is a free admission event, but donations will be graciously accepted at the door. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. For more information please call 982-7344 or email kden73@aol.com.
Hilo's Kaʻawaloa returns from the Big Apple where he has been working his craft. He recently traveled the country, playing the titular role of the king of Siam in the national tour of The King & I. Other notable roles he's played include El Gallo in The Fantasticks – both for KDEN and in Florida – Captain Hook in Peter Pan, and the Beast in Beauty and the Beast.
Norman Arancon continues to perform here on Hawaiʻi Island, and is currently portraying The Spirit of Transformation in The Hawaiian Nutcracker. His most notable roles include Engineer in Miss Saigon, The King of Siam in The King and I for KDEN, and Jafar in Aladdin Jr.
Paige Mason is originally from Lexington, Kentucky but is now based out of New York. She most recently traveled China and Saudi Arabia in the International tour of The Wizard of Oz. Some of her notable roles are Millie in Thoroughly Modern Millie, Fiona in Shrek: The Musical, and Babette in Beauty and the Beast.
Mikala Thomas most recently produced a recital for his 28 music students. He was last seen playing keyboards for RENT at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, and is excited to be working with Pedro, Norman, and Paige.
KDEN has been providing quality theatre to Hawaiʻi Island since 2002; come help show support of an organization that has touched and shaped the lives of many in East Hawaiʻi, requests the organization.
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Hawaiʻi Farmers Union United, Kaʻū Chapter, meeting on Saturday, Nov. 30 from at Pāhala Plantation House. All persons working or interested in agriculture are invited. A potluck lunch will be served. Learn of plans for 2020, including agriculture education, events, and reviewing legislation and issues before the county, state, and federal policymakers that affect Kaʻū. Rep. Richard Creagan, Chair of the state House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture, will announce his 2020 legislative goals. For more information on HFUU, call Pres. Matt Drayer at 808-339-8737. AdvoCATS, Wednesday, Nov. 30, 7a.m.-4:30p.m., Ocean View Community Center. Free spay/neuter for cats. 895-9283, advocatshawaii.org
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 o Lokuana Trail, Sunday, Dec. 1, 9:30-11a.m., Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, short, moderately difficult, 0.4 mile hike. nps.gov/havo
Cultural Understanding Through Art & 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
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, 9, OceanViewCommunity 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, 17 and 31 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 11a.m.-1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805
Papa ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: Hawaiian Language Classes Level 1, Tuesdays, Dec. 3-Feb. 4, , VolcanoArtCenter. $85/VAC member, $95/non-member. Basics class focuses on vocabulary, counting, simple conversation, grammar, and sentence structures. No textbook or previous knowledge required. No class Dec. 24 or 31. Instruction by Kumu Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. volcanoartcenter.org
Papa ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: Hawaiian Language Classes Level 2, Tuesdays, Dec. 3-Feb. 4, , VolcanoArtCenter. $85/VAC member, $95/non-member. Class focuses on expanding vocabulary, using longer snippets of conversation, and understanding how repeating Hawaiian word and phrase patterns can be used to communicate using many types of sentences. Class taught using Hawaiian as language of instruction about 10% of the time to help with listening comprehension. No textbook required. No class Dec. 24 or 31. Instruction by Kumu Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. volcanoartcenter.org
Papa ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: Hawaiian Language Classes Level 3, Tuesdays, Dec. 3-Feb. 4, , VolcanoArtCenter. $85/VAC member, $95/non-member. Class taught over 50% in the Hawaiian language to increase comprehension and to "immerse" the student. Class is ideal for teachers, cultural practitioners, and those with the goal of using Hawaiian language on a daily basis. No textbook required. No class Dec. 24 or 31. Instruction by Kumu Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. volcanoartcenter.org
After Dark in the Park: Reintroduction of the ‘Ālala - Two Years Later, Tuesday, Dec. 3, 7-8p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Rachel Kingsley of The ‘Ālala Project provides an update. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo
THURSDAY, DEC. 5
Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Dec. 5 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org
Fit & Firm Volcano Medium Intensity Strength Adult Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $36 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs, or prorating for missed classes. Limited to 15 people. Must call to reserve spot in advance. No drop-ins. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Stewardship at the Summit, Dec. 6, 13, 21 and 28, , meet Paul and Jane Field at KīlaueaVisitorCenter, HVNP. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in the park. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, 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/
Strong Seniors Chair Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $45 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs or prorating for missed classes. No drop ins. Limited to 15 people. Reserve spot in advance. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Christmas in the Country featuring 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit, daily, through Dec. 31, Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org
P&R T-Ball League Registration, through Jan. 6, KahukuPark. Ages 5-6. Program to take place Dec. 2 - April 16, 3:30-4:30pm. Athletic shoes required. Contact Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511.
P&R Coach Pitch Baseball League Registration, through Jan. 6, KahukuPark. Ages 7-8. Program to take place Dec. 2 - April 16, 4:30-6pm. Athletic shoes, glove, and uniform required. Contact Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511.
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 808-938-1088.
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Keira Aida Ayu, with her art for a floating lantern to remember her late pets. Photo by Julia Neal
THE NINTH FLOATING LANTERN CEREMONY AT PUNALUʻU drew keiki and adults to remember people and their pets today as they floated rafts with messages of love and remembrance. Taiko drumming, aikido, hula, and food brought community together in an event sponsored by Kaʻū Rural Health Community Association, and its founder Jessie Marques.
Lanterns remember late loved ones at the Punualuʻu Medicine Pond. Photo by Julia Neal
Participants' hand-painted messages on the wooden and foam rafts most often said, "I love you" to the one departed. Some messages were for family members, others for friends. Some were for a small child's pet, who completed their short lives. The group walked the path down to Punaluʻu Medicine Pond around sunset and set free the rafts to sail across the waters to the far shore. After retrieving the rafts, participants took the art home for keepsakes. Marques said she is looking forward to the tenth anniversary of the event next year, the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
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HAWAIʻI FARMERS UNION UNITED HELD A ROUND TABLE today in Kaʻū with expressions of interest in agriculture, from intense backyard food growing, to cannabis and mamaki tea farms on a larger scale. Richard Creagan, Chair of the state House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture, shared his views and ideas for the Hawai,i State Legislature, which opens in January. Creagan said he is interested in encouraging the forming of more cooperatives, each focused on a singular crop. He gave the example of the new Hawaiʻi ʻUlu Cooperative, which represents some 60 growers. He said the value of the cooperative approach is that with small family farms, it is
Hula from the hālau of the Kīlauea Military Camp luʻau each Friday night offered dance for the Floating Lantern Ceremony. Photo by Julia Neal
sometimes difficult to produce a consistent volume of fruit produce in order to become a reliable source for restaurants and stores. The cooperative can take in the produce from small and large farms, and establish a consistent market for buyer and grower. The cooperative, owned by its members, can help ensure quality of the product, cut out some of the middle man cost to direct more income to the farmers, and help promote the produce as Hawaiian grown. Creagan said that the ʻulu cooperative is a major success in this direction and is leading to more sales in markets and the use of ʻulu for dishes in numerous restaurants, where new recipes are being created, from entrees to desserts. Among Hawaiʻi Island schools serving ʻulu are Volcano School of the Arts & Sciences, with its ʻUlu muffins, salad, and pizza dough; Hawaiʻi Academy of Arts & Science; and Kona Pacific Public Charter School.
ʻUlu, breadfruit. Photo from the Hawaiʻi ʻUlu Cooperative
Among dishes served at Hawaiʻi Island restaurants are an ʻulu hummus at the Four Seasons Hualalai; an ʻulu salad at Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa; an ʻulu risotto at Cafe Pesto; and ʻulu chocolate mousse and ʻulu jalapeno burgers and ʻulu hummus plates and sandwiches at Sweet Cane Cafe. Majic's Food Truck sells ripe ʻulu wedges, Fairmont Orchid sells ʻulu fries, and Hilton Waikola Village sells ʻUlu La Humms, while Westin Hapuna Beach resort offers ʻulu chips. ʻUlu can be found in Mauana Kea Beach Hotel's ʻulu maʻia bread, at Kaya's in its quiche, and at Kanaka Kava. The Hawaiʻi ʻUlu Cooperative sells online direct to customers and to grocers. It also promotes the healthy food value of ʻulu and celebrates its connections to Polynesia. Also available are young ʻulu trees for local farms and backyards. The ʻUlu Cooperative also offers for sale, "co-crop that grow well with ‘ulu in diversified agroforestry environments. Now you have even more ways to support Hawai‘i's farmers, the ‘āina, and local food security while adding more high-quality, nutritious, and delicious local produce to your menu!" says the website at eatbreadfruit.com.
During the Farmers Union meeting, Morgan Eaton, whose farm is mauka of Hwy 11 between Waiʻōhinu and South Point Road, said he is producing products from land where the food is growing wild. He said he makes likikoi and mamaki tea, syrups, and vinaigrette, and plans to create a hot sauce. He also harvests papaya and mango from his property. He said he hopes to help incentivize local people to buy food grown here and asked how truth in labeling can be extended beyond the coffee industry. He said using the word lilikoi suggests that the passion fruit is grown in Hawaiʻi. He contended that people importing passion fruit products from outside Hawaiʻi should not be able to sell them as lilikoi. Bob Stock, of Discovery Harbour, said his half acre produces too much food for his wife and himself, and that he welcomes more outlets to give it away and sell it. The produce ranges from fruit trees, like soursop, to vegetables, including asparagus and a climbing spinach. He said he has to cut back branches in his well-growing food yard, just to walk through it, and that he would like to help others, by providing knowledge of how to grow and gifting starter plants. Adam Herron, Dustin Kegley, and Sam Richeson, of Wood Valley Ranch, said their team is helping to revitalize its mamaki tea, with vegetables growing between the rows. They also talked about the ranch becoming a larger habitat for the endangered King Kamehameha butterfly, which desires the native mamaki for its food. The team said the farm is being revamped to use more sustainable and organic practices. See more on the Kaʻū Farmers Union meeting in Sunday's Kaʻū News Briefs.
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A COMMUNITY SKATEPARK DESIGN WORKSHOP will be held at Ocean View community Center on Saturday, Dec. 28 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The purpose is to create a design plan and drawings of skatepark features to present to County Council. The OV skatepark is one mission of Kalanihale 501- 3c non profit group. Kalanihale also recently hosted skateboard movie night at OVCC. Everyone is welcome to attend. Contact Kaimi Kaupiko at 808-937-1310.
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ST. JUDE'S SANTA CLAUS WILL RETIRE THIS YEAR, and the church will join the Ocean View Community Keiki Christmas Event. The free joint event will be held Saturday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kahuku Park, 92-8607 Paradise Circle Mauka, and at St. Jude's lower parking lot, across the street. The church will host two tents: Santa's Reading Room, where keiki receive books, and the North Pole, where keiki receive Christmas stockings and other gifts. Santa will hold court in the park, and there will be other treats on offer.
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Cultural Understanding Through Art & 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
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, 9, OceanViewCommunity 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, 17 and 31 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 11a.m.-1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805
Papa ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: Hawaiian Language Classes Level 1, Tuesdays, Dec. 3-Feb. 4, , VolcanoArtCenter. $85/VAC member, $95/non-member. Basics class focuses on vocabulary, counting, simple conversation, grammar, and sentence structures. No textbook or previous knowledge required. No class Dec. 24 or 31. Instruction by Kumu Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. volcanoartcenter.org
Papa ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: Hawaiian Language Classes Level 2, Tuesdays, Dec. 3-Feb. 4, , VolcanoArtCenter. $85/VAC member, $95/non-member. Class focuses on expanding vocabulary, using longer snippets of conversation, and understanding how repeating Hawaiian word and phrase patterns can be used to communicate using many types of sentences. Class taught using Hawaiian as language of instruction about 10% of the time to help with listening comprehension. No textbook required. No class Dec. 24 or 31. Instruction by Kumu Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. volcanoartcenter.org
Papa ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: Hawaiian Language Classes Level 3, Tuesdays, Dec. 3-Feb. 4, , VolcanoArtCenter. $85/VAC member, $95/non-member. Class taught over 50% in the Hawaiian language to increase comprehension and to "immerse" the student. Class is ideal for teachers, cultural practitioners, and those with the goal of using Hawaiian language on a daily basis. No textbook required. No class Dec. 24 or 31. Instruction by Kumu Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. volcanoartcenter.org
After Dark in the Park: Reintroduction of the ‘Ālala - Two Years Later, Tuesday, Dec. 3, 7-8p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Rachel Kingsley of The ‘Ālala Project provides an update. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo
THURSDAY, DEC. 5
Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Dec. 5 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org
Fit & Firm Volcano Medium Intensity Strength Adult Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $36 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs, or prorating for missed classes. Limited to 15 people. Must call to reserve spot in advance. No drop-ins. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Stewardship at the Summit, Dec. 6, 13, 21 and 28, , meet Paul and Jane Field at KīlaueaVisitorCenter, HVNP. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in the park. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, 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/
Strong Seniors Chair Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $45 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs or prorating for missed classes. No drop ins. Limited to 15 people. Reserve spot in advance. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Painting from Observation with Lisa Maria Martin, Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8, , VolcanoArtCenter. For beginners and intermediate. All supplies provided. $220/VAC member, $240/non-member. See supplies required. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
Realms and Divisions, Saturday, Dec. 7, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult, two-mile, hike. Bring snack. nps.gov/havo
Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Dec. 7, , OceanViewCommunity Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Blackwater Railroad Company Band, Saturday, Dec. 7, , Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, in HVNP. $5 cover charge. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com
Christmas in the Country featuring 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit, daily, through Dec. 31, Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org
P&R T-Ball League Registration, through Jan. 6, KahukuPark. Ages 5-6. Program to take place Dec. 2 - April 16, 3:30-4:30pm. Athletic shoes required. Contact Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511.
P&R Coach Pitch Baseball League Registration, through Jan. 6, KahukuPark. Ages 7-8. Program to take place Dec. 2 - April 16, 4:30-6pm. Athletic shoes, glove, and uniform required. Contact Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511.
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 808-938-1088.
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Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park's Kaʻena Point, located at the end of Chain of Craters Road, is one of the closest
of 21 places Kaʻū residents can sign up for to participate in the annual Sanctuary Ocean Count of humpback whales.
See details on this year's count, below. Photo from NOAA
THE HAWAIʻI FARMERS UNION UNITED meeting in Kaʻū this weekend brought forth many ideas, including the future of growing hemp. Several members of the organization talked about the possibility of three hemp harvests per year here, versus one harvest in many places on the mainland. Three harvests could make hemp a viable crop small farmers, even though land is expensive and labor in short supply. While Hawaiʻi has a lack of vast farmland to grow hemp and harvest it with large machinery like in Canada and the U.S. mainland, small farms here could be be profitable. Several attending the meeting said they worked on hemp farms in Colorado and would like to try it out here. Others said that by the end of 2020, the state will work out guidelines for farmers to grow hemp. In recent years, growing has been limited to test plots, carefully regulated and limited by the state.
Dr. Jana Bogs lives at South Point and said she is willing to help local farmers enrich the soils to make more nutrient rich foods. Photo from Beyond Organic
Rep. Richard Creagan, chair of the state House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture, said that when the rules and regs are finalized, there will be no attempt to limit the number of growers. With the growing ideal in Hawaiʻi, said Greg Smith, a licensee for one of the hemp test plots, one of the challenges is keeping CBD in the hemp under the federal limit of .3 percent for the active ingredient in many legal products. Creagan and Smith said that the limit could be controlled through genetics of the plant. Some said that genetics through the GMO process to limit the percentage of CBD might dim the market. Other ways of breeding could be attempted. Perhaps federal approval could be received to extract the extra the CBD, to bring the hemp into the legal standard. In other topics, a South Point farmer, Dr. Jana Bogs, said her goal is to grow food with more nutrients. She said she has a PhD in horticulture and has found that the nutrients in edible plants can be doubled through managing the soil where they grow. She said farming for the most nutrients is "beyond organic." She also said she is involved in revamping the garden at the stone Catholic Church that fell down in the 1868 great earthquake in Kaʻū, and that it will once again be open to the public through the Nāʻālehu Main Street program. She said she is available to help people with soil testing, and nutrient enrichment suggestions for their farms. See beyondorganicresearch.com. She has written several books, including Beyond Organic, Growing for Maximum Nutrition. See more in Monday's Ka`u News Briefs.
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MANY SMALL EARTHQUAKES around Pāhala in recent weeks included a 3.2 at 8:47 p.m. on Saturday, 10 kilometers north of Pāhala, up past Wood Valley. At least seven more quakes have occurred closer to Pāhala since then, as of Sunday at 5:15 p.m. See the Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory article on deep earthquakes in the Pāhala areahere.
USGS image
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VOLUNTEERING TO COUNT HUMPBACK WHALES IN KAʻŪ WATERS will be on the last Saturdays of the first three months of 2020. Hawaiian Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count dates are Jan. 25, Feb. 29, and March 28. Registration begins in mid-December. Sponsored by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, volunteers count sightings of humpback whales and other marine mammals and record their activies.
Locations in Kaʻū are: Kaʻena Point in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Miloli‘i Lookout, Ka Lae Park, and Punalu‘u BlackSandBeachPark. Volunteer run from to , orientation included.
Ocean Count promotes public awareness about humpback whales, the sanctuary, and shore-based whale watching opportunities. The sanctuary holds Ocean Count three times each year during peak whale season. Participants tally humpback whale sightings and document the animals' surface behavior during the survey, which provides a snapshot of humpback whale activity from the shoreline. Ocean Count, the yearly volunteer-dependent sighting for humpback whales in Hawaiian waters, takes place on Hawaiʻi Island, Kauaʻi, and Oʻahu. Register at oceancount.org.
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Keanu Keolanui. Photo from KITV News
KEANU KEOLANUI, SON OF EDMUND C. OLSON TRUST staff member and trustee Troy Keolonui, became a football hero on Saturday when he kicked a 55 yard field goal, to give Hilo High School the state championship. Keolanui made the kick with with no time remaining. Hilo Vikings beat ʻIolani Raiders 20-17 at Aloha Stadium on Oʻahu. It was Hilo's second state championship in high school football in three years. This season, the Vikings went undefeated. Keolanui told KITV, "I always wanted a game winning field goal, and I did in in the biggest game. I'm just happy that I get to do this on my senior year. It ended on a good note... The feeling is so good. I just want to say, 'Thank you' to everybody. This is a very special moment in my life."
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How to use this map: Hold this map overhead so that the northern horizon points toward the north on the Earth. For best results, use a red flashlight to illuminate the map. If looking east, hold it in front of you so that east is on the bottom. For south views, south at the bottom, and for west, west at the bottom. Use this map at the times shown on in its upper left corner. Keep this page handy and show it to your keiki next month. They probably have bedtimes before the time of the chart shown here. The constellations are presented with their 3-letter abbreviations, with their common names shown in the margins. This is done to take advantage of the truly dark skies Ka‘ū is blessed with when there is no bright moon and the skies are clear of vog. The star charts are produced from a sky Atlas program written by Jerry Hudson, who has given us permission to publish it. Thank you, Jerry.
STARS OVER KAʻŪ - December 2019, by Lew & Donna Cook Planets and Exoplanets The transit of Mercury – the planet crossed between us and the sun – is now history. It was underwhelming, yet an earlier transit is one of Lew's most distinct astronomical memories. That was a long time ago. He had use of the 11.5 inch Alvin Clark & Sons refracting telescope on the LSU campus in Baton Rouge, LA. Venus went across the face of the sun for the last time this century in June of 2012, and was impressive – if you had the right equipment. This month, Venus, after passing past and in front of Saturn on the 10th, is low in the southwest in the early evening. Venus, Saturn, and Jupiter all set before chart time. Jupiter set just after 6 p.m. It will set earlier and earlier as the sun creeps around eastward. Mars is a morning star. Check it out a couple of hours before sunrise.
Lew's images for the recurrent nova in the Andromeda galaxy, M31. This nova is watched by a team of amateur and professional astronomers. It has erupted every year since it was discovered in 2008. It is suspected of being close to becoming a supernova. Image copyright 2019 by L. M. Cook
The Recurrent Nova in the Andromeda Galaxy Last month Lew was busy with monitoring and reporting the recurrent nova in the Andromeda. It erupted on Nov. 6, 2019. It also erupted on Nov. 6, 2018. This star is believed to be on its way to becoming a supernova. Parts of Lew's images showing the before and after eruption are shown here. The image is shown as a negative - the same way our chart is drawn. Constellations In the east, Orion's large hunting dog has risen. The Bull, Taurus, is approaching the zenith, the point directly overhead. Also Gemini, the twins, have cleared the horizon. Higher up in the eastern sky is Auriga, the Charioteer following south east of Perseus, the brave hero who cut the head off of the monster Medusa. One glance at Medusa would turn you to stone. Disappearing in the west are Cygnus, the swan, and Aquarius, the water carrier, following Capricorn, the Goat. That's in the southwest. If you look to the southeast, you'll see the three constellations that make up Jason and the Argonauts' ship: Puppis, the deck, Vela, the sail, and Carina, the Keel. Fridays Sunrise and Sunset times: Date Sunrise Sunset Dec. 6, 2019 6:42 am 5:44 pm Dec. 13 6:46 am 5:46 pm Dec. 20 6:50 am 5:49 pm Dec. 27 6:54 am 5:43 pm The times of sunrise and sunset are not changing rapidly now that the solistice is upon us. The sun is at its southernmost range. Moon Phases Phase Date Moonrise Moonset First Quarter Dec. 3 12:35 pm 12:21 am** Full Moon Dec. 11 5:47 pm 7:12 am** Last Quarter Dec. 18 11:36 pm* 12:26 pm New Moon Dec. 25 6:27 am 5:44 pm First Quarter Jan. 2 12:22 pm 12:34 am** *previous night **next morning Local Attractions The ‘Imiloa Planetarium in Hilo Restaurant schedule: Closed Mondays; Breakfast & Lunch, 7 AM - 4 PM daily; Dinner, 5 PM - 8:30 PM, Thursday through Sunday. Check for the schedule at imiloahawaii.org. Members are admitted free to the daily shows. There is a night show once a month, when smaller telescopes on Maunakea are linked to the Planetarium where they show live shots of individual objects. Call the Planetarium at (808) 932-8901 for info on the schedule and ticket availability, prices and membership costs. Please mention to the nice folks at the ticket sales desk where you got the inspiration to come, and that you are entitled to the 10% kamaʻaina discount for membership.
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Keiki playing kōnane, Hawaiian checkers. NPS photo
ATTEND DECEMBER EVENTS at Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park, which continues its tradition of sharing Hawaiian culture. The Park anticipates heavy holiday visitation with limited parking at the summit of Kīlauea, due to the summit collapse during last year's eruptive and seismic activity. Although most of the park is open, visitors are encouraged to check the park website, nps.gov/hawaiivolcanoes, ahead of their arrival for alerts, parking tips, and how to avoid the holiday crowds. Park events are free, but entrance fees may apply. Some programs are co-sponsored by Friends of Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park and Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association:
After Dark in the Park: Reintroduction of the ‘Ālala – Two Years Later will be held Tuesday, Dec. 3, , at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Through intensive conservation efforts, 20 ‘ālala, the endemic and endangered Hawaiian crow, have been reintroduced in native Hawaiian forests. Rachel Kingsley, education and outreach association for The ‘Ālala Project, will provide an update on the reintroduced birds.
After Dark in the Park: 100th Anniversary of the Mauna Iki Eruption on Kīlauea Volcano's Southwest Rift Zone will be held Tuesday, Dec. 10 at , Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. From mid-December 1919, after significant draining and re-filling of the Halema‘uma‘u lava lake, lava erupted on the caldera floor, sending lava down the SW rift zone. Join geologist Scott Rowland from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa as he explains the significance of this 100-year-old eruption.
One of a growing number of reintroduced ‘Ālala, Hawaiian
crow, in the wild. Photo from San DiegoGlobal Zoo
‘Ike Hana No‘eau, Experience the Skillful Work: Moa Pahe‘e Games will be held Wednesday, Dec. 11 from to , Outside Hale Noa o Kīlauea, across from VolcanoArtCenter. Similar to ‘ulu maika, which is similar to lawn bowling, moa pahe‘e requires a little more strength and skill. Join rangers and staff from Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association during the festive Makahiki season and test yourself in this fun Hawaiian game.
Holidays in Kahuku will be held Saturday, Dec. 14 from to at Kahuku Unit in Ka‘ū. The Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park invites everyone to the second annual, free, family-friendly event featuring local crafters selling jewelry, pottery, holiday decorations, and more. Live music includes performances by rock ‘n rollers Shootz, the "Queen of Opera" D’Andrea Pelletier, and a surprise guest performing Hawaiian music. Volcano House will provide food for purchase, and Friends will sell shave ice, drinks, chips, and logo merchandise. Books, native species plush toys, and other park-related items will be for sale in the Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association store. All proceeds from this event support park projects and educational programs.
After Dark in the Park: Holiday Concert will be held Tuesday, Dec. 17 at at Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Acclaimed Hawai‘i musician and recording artist Randy Lorenzo, and upcoming vocalist Jennie Kaneshiro, will be joined by special guest musicians for an intimate evening of mele and celebration.
Randy Lorenzo and Jennie Kaneshiro. NPS photo
‘Ike Hana No‘eau, Experience the Skillful Work: Kōnane, Hawaiian checkers, will be held Wednesday, Dec. 25 from to , outside Hale Noa o Kīlauea, across from VolcanoArtCenter. Celebrate the annual Hawaiian makahiki season and come play kōnane in the Park. Kōnane is an ancient Hawaiian game similar to checkers, and the object of the game is to be the last player to make a move. King Kamehameha was an excellent player who could beat his opponent swiftly. Join park rangers and staff from Hawai‘i Pacific parks Association for this event.
Coffee Talk: December's Artist in Residence, Landscape painter Dawn Waters Baker will be held Friday, Dec. 27 from to at Kahuku Unit in Ka‘ū. Baker will present her work to the public in Kahuku – and informally as she paints throughout the park, en plein air. The artist lives in Texas, but was born and raised in the Philippinesand lived through the Mt.Pinatuboeruption in 1991. Baker is familiar with lush, volcanic landscapes, and will be looking and listening for both the new and the familiar, along with the themes of life, death, and rebirth while she is here. The Artist in Residence program is sponsored by the National Parks Arts Foundation, Friends of Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park, and other partners.
Stewardship of Kīpukapuaulu will be held every Thursday at , Dec. 5, 12, 19, and 26. 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: nickem@hawaii.rr.com.
Painting by December Artist in Residence, Dawn Waters Baker. Courtesy photo
Stewardship at the Summit will be held Saturday, Dec. 6 and 13, and Sunday, Dec. 21 and 28. Meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at at KīlaueaVisitorCenter. 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 at nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/summit_stewardship.htm.
A Walk into the Past with Dr. Thomas A. Jaggar will be held Tuesdays. Dec. 3, 10, 17, and 24 at , , and Each performance is about an hour. Meet at KīlaueaVisitorCenter. Walk back to 1912, and meet the founder of the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Dr. Thomas A. Jaggar, at the edge of Kīlauea Volcano. Dressed in period costume, Ka‘ū actor-director Dick Hershberger brings the renowned geologist to life. Dr. Jaggar will take you on 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 Kahukuwithout entrance fees Wednesday through Sunday from to (closed Wednesday Dec. 25 and Jan. 1). 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.
T-Ball and Coach Pitch Baseball League Registration and First Practice:Ocean View Team - Monday, Dec. 2, and Wednesday, Dec. 4, Kahuku Park. Nā‘ālehu Team - Tuesday, Dec. 3, and Thursday, Dec. 5, Nā‘ālehu Park. Pāhala Team (seeking coaches) - attend Nā‘ālehu practice and registration. T-Ball, 3:30-4:30pm, ages 5-6. Coach Pitch, 4:30-6p.m., ages 7-8. Programs take place through April 16. Wear cleats or tennis shoes, bring a glove if possible. Extras gloves available for use. All skills and genders welcome. $35 per teammate. See Ka‘ū Youth Baseball on Facebook. Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511 Christmas Ornament Activity Registration, Dec. 2-10, Ka‘ū District Gym. Program takes place Wednesday, Dec. 11, , 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, 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
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, 9, OceanViewCommunity 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, 17 and 31 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 11a.m.-1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805
Papa ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: Hawaiian Language Classes Level 1, Tuesdays, Dec. 3-Feb. 4, , VolcanoArtCenter. $85/VAC member, $95/non-member. Basics class focuses on vocabulary, counting, simple conversation, grammar, and sentence structures. No textbook or previous knowledge required. No class Dec. 24 or 31. Instruction by Kumu Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. volcanoartcenter.org
Papa ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: Hawaiian Language Classes Level 2, Tuesdays, Dec. 3-Feb. 4, , VolcanoArtCenter. $85/VAC member, $95/non-member. Class focuses on expanding vocabulary, using longer snippets of conversation, and understanding how repeating Hawaiian word and phrase patterns can be used to communicate using many types of sentences. Class taught using Hawaiian as language of instruction about 10% of the time to help with listening comprehension. No textbook required. No class Dec. 24 or 31. Instruction by Kumu Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. volcanoartcenter.org
Papa ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: Hawaiian Language Classes Level 3, Tuesdays, Dec. 3-Feb. 4, , VolcanoArtCenter. $85/VAC member, $95/non-member. Class taught over 50% in the Hawaiian language to increase comprehension and to "immerse" the student. Class is ideal for teachers, cultural practitioners, and those with the goal of using Hawaiian language on a daily basis. No textbook required. No class Dec. 24 or 31. Instruction by Kumu Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. volcanoartcenter.org
After Dark in the Park: Reintroduction of the ‘Ālala - Two Years Later, Tuesday, Dec. 3, 7-8p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Rachel Kingsley of The ‘Ālala Project provides an update. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo
THURSDAY, DEC. 5
Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Dec. 5 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org
Fit & Firm Volcano Medium Intensity Strength Adult Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $36 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs, or prorating for missed classes. Limited to 15 people. Must call to reserve spot in advance. No drop-ins. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Stewardship at the Summit, Dec. 6, 13, 21 and 28, , meet Paul and Jane Field at KīlaueaVisitorCenter, HVNP. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in the park. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, 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/
Strong Seniors Chair Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $45 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs or prorating for missed classes. No drop ins. Limited to 15 people. Reserve spot in advance. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Painting from Observation with Lisa Maria Martin, Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8, , VolcanoArtCenter. For beginners and intermediate. All supplies provided. $220/VAC member, $240/non-member. See supplies required. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
Realms and Divisions, Saturday, Dec. 7, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult, two-mile, hike. Bring snack. nps.gov/havo
Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Dec. 7, , OceanViewCommunity Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Blackwater Railroad Company Band, Saturday, Dec. 7, , 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. 8
41st Pāhala Christmas Parade, Sunday, Dec. 8, starts at Pāhala Armory. Eddie Andrade, 928-0808 Pele & Hi‘iaka, Sunday, Dec. 8, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo
Medicine for the Mind: Teachings in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition, Sunday, Dec. 8 – 2nd Sunday, monthly – , VolcanoArtCenter. Free; calabash donations welcome. Dress warmly. Patty Johnson, 345-1527, volcanoartcenter.org
Christmas in the Country featuring 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit, daily, through Dec. 31, Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org
T-Ball and Coach Pitch Baseball League Registration and First Practice:Ocean View Team - Monday, Dec. 2, and Wednesday, Dec. 4, Kahuku Park. Nā‘ālehu Team - Tuesday, Dec. 3, and Thursday, Dec. 5, Nā‘ālehu Park. Pāhala Team (seeking coaches) - attend Nā‘ālehu practice and registration. T-Ball, 3:30-4:30pm, ages 5-6. Coach Pitch, 4:30-6p.m., ages 7-8. Programs take place through April 16. Wear cleats or tennis shoes, bring a glove if possible. Extras gloves available for use. All skills and genders welcome. $35 per teammate. See Ka‘ū Youth Baseball on Facebook. Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511
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 808-938-1088.
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Ikaika Grace and Lorilee Lorenzo represented Kaʻū in the Hilo Christmas Parade on Saturday. Photo from Lorilee Lorenzo
REP. TULSI GABBARD'S PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN reached the 200,000 individual donor qualification for the December debate on Nov. 28. Said Gabbard, "This campaign milestone represents so much more than an arbitrary (Democratic National Convention) requirement for a presidential debate. It represents the continued strength and momentum of our grassroots movement to usher in a 21st century of peace, human dignity, and true equality."
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GIVING TUESDAY IS TOMORROW. Habitat for Humanity, which has helped people use their sweat equity to become homeowners in Ocean View and elsewhere around the island, is asking for assistance. So is Bay Clinic, with its Kaʻū facility in Nāʻālehu, and Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi, with its health outreach in Kaʻū. Hawaiʻi Food Basket, Inc. which brings fresh produce and other edibles to Kaʻū, is also asking for help through Giving Tuesday. See the links above to local organizations and see givingtuesday.org.
A Giving Tuesday request from Habitat for Humanity.
Habitat for Humanity posted a statement: "Every day, we are thankful for our donors, supporters, and volunteers who have partnered with us to provide affordable homes for our Habitat families and much needed assistance for those that were displaced during the eruption last year on Hawaiʻi Island. The work continues and we are truly grateful for your continuous support.
"There are no words to describe what an impact that leaves on the families we help. The smiles, and having a secure and safe place to call home, are priceless. You are transforming lives of families in need in our island community."
Bay Clinic is the largest non-profit community health center on Hawai’i Island. The group employs approximately 180 health care professionals and support staff, which is about $13 million in annual salaries and wages for East Hawai’iresidents, a significant contribution to the local economy and workforce infrastructure. Bay Clinic provides access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare on Hawai’i Island, serving 22,096 East Hawai’iresidents with approximately 80,000 visits annually.
Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi is "dedicated to improving the wellness and well-being of Hawaiʻi Island so that all residents can Live Longer & Feel Better, Together." A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, incorporated in 1991, Hui Mālama Ola Nā ʻŌiwi serves as the Native Hawaiian Health Care System for Hawaiʻi Island. The group provides medical, behavioral health, and community education services "with the sole objective of improving access to quality healthcare, education, and services for the people of Hawaiʻi County."
Hawaiʻi Food Basket's mission is "To end hunger in Hawaiʻi County." The group's vision is that Hawaiʻi County will be "a model for food security and sustainability."
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Kaʻū High graduate Jacob Edwards has won three top
short film awards at Laramie Film Festival.
Photo by Aubrie Shindler
JACOB EDWARDS, KAʻŪ HIGH and University of Wyoming graduate, won top honor at the Laramie Film Festival for the third year in a row in November. He scripted, scored, and directed the short film, Spoopy. The film description reads: "Post college, a young girl (Ashley Kennah), encounters bumps in the night as she attempts to move forward and out of the oppressive world around her, aided only by her naive roommate (Kristian Kennah)."
Edwards' two previous wins are Sock and A Potion. He earned a bachelors in Sociology and Business Communication and a minor in criminal justice at UW. He works for the state of Wyomingas a program trainer at the ARC of Laramie, teaching direct service workers who provide assistance to persons with head trauma and developmental disabilities.
The filmmaker is son of Ocean View resident Lisa Edwards and brother to Larissa Edwards, a 2008 graduate of Kaʻū High. Both won track scholarships to University of Wyoming and reside in Laramie. Larissa has worked as a school teacher and has a family. All three films can be watched on YouTube on Edward's channel RAC For The People, https://youtu.be/kvLaGacYa7U.
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Brig. Gen. Roy J. Macaraeg, wife Bene, and daughter Chloe Anne, with Governor and Mrs. Ige. Photo from the governor's office
BRIGADIER GENERAL ROY J. MACARAEG IS THE FIRST FILIPINO-AMERICAN TO BECOME A GENERAL IN THE HAWAIʻI ARMY NATIONAL GUARD. At Washington Place, Gov. David Ige recently administered the oath of office to Macaraeg, who was promoted from the rank of colonel.
Macaraeg is a graduate of FarringtonHigh School and UH-Mānoa. He has held posts at the Pentagon and was deployed to Iraq, Kuwait and Kosovo. He earned numerous awards.
Brig. Gen. Kenneth S. Hara has been appointed to be the Adjutant General for the state's Department of Defense, effective Dec. 6. Hara replaces Maj. Gen. Arthur "Joe" Logan, who will retire from this position at the end of the year. Hara has served as deputy adjutant general since January 2015. He also heads the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard.
Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara.
Photo from the governor's office
Hara has served in command positions during deployments to Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan. In addition, he played key roles in the response to Hurrican Iniki in 1992, and was Dual Status Commander of Joint Task Force 5-0 for the Kīlauea eruption and Hurricane Lane responses in 2018. Hara's appointment is subject to Senate confirmation. To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
THE ROUGH WEATHER of the last few days will calm down by tomorrow, according to the forecast from the National Weather Service. Temperatures will stay between the high 50s to the low 80s; winds will drop down to miles per hour; and rain is forecast for, at most, a 20 percent chance.
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.
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, 9, OceanViewCommunity 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, 17 and 31 – every other Tuesday, monthly – 11a.m.-1p.m., PARENTS, Inc. office, Nā‘ālehu. Empowering girls group. Registration required. Diana, 935-4805
Papa ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: Hawaiian Language Classes Level 1, Tuesdays, Dec. 3-Feb. 4, , VolcanoArtCenter. $85/VAC member, $95/non-member. Basics class focuses on vocabulary, counting, simple conversation, grammar, and sentence structures. No textbook or previous knowledge required. No class Dec. 24 or 31. Instruction by Kumu Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. volcanoartcenter.org
Papa ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: Hawaiian Language Classes Level 2, Tuesdays, Dec. 3-Feb. 4, , VolcanoArtCenter. $85/VAC member, $95/non-member. Class focuses on expanding vocabulary, using longer snippets of conversation, and understanding how repeating Hawaiian word and phrase patterns can be used to communicate using many types of sentences. Class taught using Hawaiian as language of instruction about 10% of the time to help with listening comprehension. No textbook required. No class Dec. 24 or 31. Instruction by Kumu Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. volcanoartcenter.org
Papa ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i: Hawaiian Language Classes Level 3, Tuesdays, Dec. 3-Feb. 4, , VolcanoArtCenter. $85/VAC member, $95/non-member. Class taught over 50% in the Hawaiian language to increase comprehension and to "immerse" the student. Class is ideal for teachers, cultural practitioners, and those with the goal of using Hawaiian language on a daily basis. No textbook required. No class Dec. 24 or 31. Instruction by Kumu Kaliko Beamer-Trapp. volcanoartcenter.org
After Dark in the Park: Reintroduction of the ‘Ālala - Two Years Later, Tuesday, Dec. 3, 7-8p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. Rachel Kingsley of The ‘Ālala Project provides an update. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo
THURSDAY, DEC. 5
Women's Expression Group, Thursday, Dec. 5 – 1st Thursday monthly – 3-4:30p.m., PARENTS Inc., Nā‘ālehu. Women welcome to drop in. Free. Lindsey Miller, 333-3460, lindsey@hawaiiparents.org
Fit & Firm Volcano Medium Intensity Strength Adult Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $36 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs, or prorating for missed classes. Limited to 15 people. Must call to reserve spot in advance. No drop-ins. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Stewardship at the Summit, Dec. 6, 13, 21 and 28, , meet Paul and Jane Field at KīlaueaVisitorCenter, HVNP. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in the park. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, 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/
Strong Seniors Chair Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $45 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs or prorating for missed classes. No drop ins. Limited to 15 people. Reserve spot in advance. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Painting from Observation with Lisa Maria Martin, Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8, , VolcanoArtCenter. For beginners and intermediate. All supplies provided. $220/VAC member, $240/non-member. See supplies required. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
Realms and Divisions, Saturday, Dec. 7, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult, two-mile, hike. Bring snack. nps.gov/havo
Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Dec. 7, , OceanViewCommunity Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Blackwater Railroad Company Band, Saturday, Dec. 7, , 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. 8
41st Pāhala Christmas Parade, Sunday, Dec. 8, starts at Pāhala Armory. Eddie Andrade, 928-0808 Pele & Hi‘iaka, Sunday, Dec. 8, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo
Medicine for the Mind: Teachings in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition, Sunday, Dec. 8 – 2nd Sunday, monthly – , VolcanoArtCenter. Free; calabash donations welcome. Dress warmly. Patty Johnson, 345-1527, volcanoartcenter.org
Christmas in the Country featuring 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit, daily, through Dec. 31, Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org
T-Ball and Coach Pitch Baseball League Registration and First Practice:Ocean View Team - Monday, Dec. 2, and Wednesday, Dec. 4, Kahuku Park. Nā‘ālehu Team - Tuesday, Dec. 3, and Thursday, Dec. 5, Nā‘ālehu Park. Pāhala Team (seeking coaches) - attend Nā‘ālehu practice and registration. T-Ball, 3:30-4:30pm, ages 5-6. Coach Pitch, 4:30-6p.m., ages 7-8. Programs take place through April 16. Wear cleats or tennis shoes, bring a glove if possible. Extras gloves available for use. All skills and genders welcome. $35 per teammate. See Ka‘ū Youth Baseball on Facebook. Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511
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 808-938-1088.
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.
Tūtū & Me families explored the Kahuku Unit of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park recently, and learned about health.
See details below. Photo from Tūtū & Me
HIGHER PAY FOR TEACHERS IN KAʻŪ and other remote places in the state school system will be considered at the Board of Education meeting in Honolulu this Thursday. The proposal was made jointly at a press conference today by the Hawaiʻi teachers union, Gov. David Ige, and the Department of Education. The aim is to give special education teachers an additional $10,000 per year and teachers in rural, hard-to-fill positions a range of $3,000 to $8,000 in additional pay per year. Hawaiian language immersion teachers would receive an additional $8,000 per year. The pay hikes would go into effect on Jan. 7, 2020.
Gov. David Ige, who was endorsed by the HSTA in his run for governor (above), made a joint proposal with the union and the state Department of Education today to raise teacher pay for rural areas like Kaʻū. HSTA photo
At the press conference today, the governor said, "This is just the first step of many that will be taken by the Board and Department, which I plan to support. Phase I addresses critical areas where students need the most attention and where we have seen the most prolonged periods of vacancies."
Board of Education Chair Catherine Payne said, "This is the first of several steps we need to take to support our talented educators. It will take strong policy direction from the Board to shift the Department's trajectory and we appreciate Governor Ige's support as we go forward with these efforts."
Examples of the kind of pay to be provided, if the measure passes, were given in a public statement. A beginning 10-month special education classroom teacher with a bachelor's degree who has completed a state approved teacher education program, holds a license from the Hawai‘i Teacher Standards Board, and who currently earns $49,100, would be eligible to receive an annual $10,000 differential. A qualified Hawaiian immersion teacher with five or six years experience and a master's degree, working at a hard-to-staff school on Moloka‘i currently earning $54,619, would be eligible to receive an annual $16,000 differential – Hard-to-staff Tier 4 plus Hawaiian Immersion.
The DOE estimates the special education pay differential would cost $8.45 million in fiscal year 2020, which ends June 30, based on 1,691 special education teachers who are currently eligible. The hard-to-staff differential is estimated to cost an additional $6 million in FY 2020, based on 2,109 teachers in all tiers of hard-to-staff areas. The Hawaiian immersion differential is expected to cost approximately $216,000 in FY 2020, based on 54 teachers who are currently eligible.
Hawaiʻi state Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Christina Kishimoto, called the initiative critical in addressing the achievement gap. "There is no single solution to the teacher staffing challenges we're seeing nationwide. "The difficulties in recruiting qualified teachers for special education, Hawaiian Language Immersion programs, and hard-to-staff areas have created an equity issue for our most vulnerable students. We have listened to the feedback of our educators and it's time for bold action to unleash the promise and power of public education on behalf of our haumana."
Corey Rosenlee, president of the Hawai‘i State Teachers Association, expressed his commitment to partner with DOE: "Today is the first step of a multi-phased plan to ensure that all our keiki, regardless of where they live, what their special needs are, or their ethnicity, are taught by highly qualified teachers."
The pay hikes are part of an initiative to tackle Hawai‘i's teacher shortage by providing incentives for educators teaching in critical areas. The first phase would implement a pay differential to increase compensation for classroom teachers in areas that have faced the most severe shortages, including hard-to-staff geographic locations like Kaʻū.
DOE announced that Phase II is expected to be launched by an additional proposal to the Board in January, to include release of the results of a teacher salary study the DOE commissioned earlier this year.
Tūtū & Me keiki and caregivers at Kahuku Unit,
increasing dexterity and using creativity while
having fun building. Photo from Tūtū & Me
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TŪTŪ AND ME FAMILIES CELEBRATED HEALTHY LIVING with a recent huakaʻi, trip, to the Kahuku Unit of VolcanoesNational Park. Keiki and caregivers took a hike with Ranger Leilani Rodrigues, experienced yoga with Lindsey from P.A.R.E.N.T.S., Inc., and improved their gross motor skills by playing in the fresh air and sunshine.
Michelle Buck, Site Manager for Hawaiʻi South Partners in Development Foundation and Tūtū and Me Traveling Preschool, said "We had a wonderful, healthy day!"
If interested in the Preschool Program in Waiʻōhinu or the Home Visiting Program in Pāhala, contact Michelle at 808-929-8571.
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HAWAIʻI VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK issued a statement today to remind the public that national parks across Americawill modify entrance fees to provide additional funding for infrastructure and maintenance needs to enhance the visitor experience.
Effective Jan. 1, entrance fees to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes will be $30 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, and $15 per pedestrian or bicyclist. The receipt allows entry for seven days. The Park has charged an entrance fee since 1987. The current rate of $25 per vehicle or $20 per motorcycle has been in effect since June 1, 2017. The park is one of the 117 National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee; the other 300-plus national parks will remain free to enter.
Walking through Kīlauea Iki becomes more expensive as of Jan. 1.
NPS photo by Janice Wei
Use of the additional revenue from entrance fees at Hawai‘i Volcanoes will include the rehabilitation of the ‘Ōhi‘a Wing into a cultural museum and archives, a new park orientation film, new exhibits that interpret the 2018 eruption, and trail improvements.
According to the statement, "Revenue from entrance fees remains in the National Park Service and helps ensure a quality experience for all who visit. At Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, at least 80 percent of entrance fees stay in the park and are devoted to spending that supports the visitor. The remaining 20 percent of entrance fee income is shared with other national parks for their projects.
"In response to public comments on a fee proposal released by NPS in October 2017, the changes reflect a modest increase for all fee-charging parks, rather than the higher peak-season fees initially proposed for 17 highly visited national parks on the mainland."
National parks have experienced record-breaking visitation, with more than 1.5 billion visitors in the last five years. Hawai‘i Volcanoes hosted 1.1 million visitors in 2018. The Park spent $94.1 million in communities near the park. That spending supported 1,040 jobs in the local area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $123 million, according to a Park analysis.
Entrance fees to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, to see sights like the
collapsed summit of Kīlauea Volcano, will increase as of Jan. 1,
to help pay for improvements and to maintain the Park.
NPS photo by Janice Wei
Throughout the country, the combination of an aging infrastructure and increased visitation has put a strain on park roads, bridges, campgrounds, waterlines, bathrooms, and other visitor services, and led to an $11.9 billion deferred maintenance backlog nationwide.
The Tri Park Pass, an annual pass that allows visitors unlimited entry to the three fee-charging national parks in Hawai‘i – Hawai‘i Volcanoes and Haleakalā National Parks, and Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park – will increase from $50 to $55 on Jan. 1, 2020.
The price of the annual Americathe BeautifulNational Parks and FederalLandsAnnualPassand LifetimeSeniorPass will remain $80.
The complete fee schedule for Hawaiʻi Volcaneos will change as follows on Jan. 1, 2020: Per vehicle seven-day pass is currently $25 and will increase $5 to $30. Per person entry, pedestrians and bicycles, is currently $12, and will increase $3 to $15. Entry per motorcycle is currently $20, and will increase $5 to $25. TriParkPass is currently $50, and will increase $5 to $55.
Visitors can enjoy five free days at all fee-charging national parks in 2020: Monday, Jan. 20, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day; Saturday, April 18, the first day of National Park Week and Junior Ranger Day; Tuesday, Aug. 25, National Park Service birthday; and Wednesday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day.
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.
Fit & Firm Volcano Medium Intensity Strength Adult Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $36 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs, or prorating for missed classes. Limited to 15 people. Must call to reserve spot in advance. No drop-ins. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Stewardship at the Summit, Dec. 6, 13, 21 and 28, , meet Paul and Jane Field at KīlaueaVisitorCenter, HVNP. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in the park. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, 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/
Strong Seniors Chair Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, 10-11a.m.,Volcano Art Center. Payment in full of $45 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs or prorating for missed classes. No drop ins. Limited to 15 people. Reserve spot in advance. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Painting from Observation with Lisa Maria Martin, Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8, , VolcanoArtCenter. For beginners and intermediate. All supplies provided. $220/VAC member, $240/non-member. See supplies required. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
Realms and Divisions, Saturday, Dec. 7, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult, two-mile, hike. Bring snack. nps.gov/havo
Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Dec. 7, , OceanViewCommunity Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Blackwater Railroad Company Band, Saturday, Dec. 7, , 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. 8
41st Pāhala Christmas Parade, Sunday, Dec. 8, starts at Pāhala Armory. Eddie Andrade, 928-0808 Pele & Hi‘iaka, Sunday, Dec. 8, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo
Medicine for the Mind: Teachings in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition, Sunday, Dec. 8 – 2nd Sunday, monthly – , VolcanoArtCenter. Free; calabash donations welcome. Dress warmly. Patty Johnson, 345-1527, volcanoartcenter.org
Birding at Kīpukapuaulu, Tuesday, Dec. 10 and 24, and Thursday, Dec. 12 and 26, , Kīpukapuaulu - BirdPark - Parking Lot, HVNP. Led by retired USGS Biologist Nic Sherma. Two hour birding tour. $40/person. Register online. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org
Cultural Understanding Through Art & the Environment: Lauhala Weaving Ku‘uipo Kakahiki-Morales, Tuesday, Dec. 10, , VolcanoArtCenter. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
After Dark in the Park: 100th Anniversary of the Mauna Iki Eruption, Tuesday, Dec. 10, , KīlaueaVisitorCenter Auditorium. UH Mānoa geologist Scott Rowland explains the significance of this eruption. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo
Christmas in the Country featuring 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit, daily, through Dec. 31, Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org
T-Ball and Coach Pitch Baseball League Registration and First Practice:Ocean View Team - Monday, Dec. 2, and Wednesday, Dec. 4, Kahuku Park. Nā‘ālehu Team - Tuesday, Dec. 3, and Thursday, Dec. 5, Nā‘ālehu Park. Pāhala Team (seeking coaches) - attend Nā‘ālehu practice and registration. T-Ball, 3:30-4:30pm, ages 5-6. Coach Pitch, 4:30-6p.m., ages 7-8. Programs take place through April 16. Wear cleats or tennis shoes, bring a glove if possible. Extras gloves available for use. All skills and genders welcome. $35 per teammate. See Ka‘ū Youth Baseball on Facebook. Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511
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 808-938-1088.
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Donna Gascon draped herself in Kaʻū Coffee beans in last year's Pāhala Christmas Parade, with Kaʻū Coffee Growers Cooperative President Gloria Camba to her left. Coffee farmers, celebrating a banner year, will
parade again this Sunday. The 41st annual Christmas Parade begins at Pāhala Armory at 1 p.m. and travels through the village. See more details below. Photo by Julia Neal
STREAMLINING THE COUNTY BUILDING PERMIT AND PLANNING PROCESS is the aim of a new online program that should be available to the public in March. County Planning Director Michael Yee, along with staff of the Department of Public Works Mass Transit, Department of Information Technology, and the Mayor's office, delivered the news to the County Council on Tuesday.
County Planning Director Michael Yee
The $2.3 million program was slated to be available this year, but the end of March is the new target to "go live," they told the Council. The plan is for central access to zoning, land classifications, specific property information, infrastructure, and permits needed, in process and completed. This would allow owners and inspectors to keep track of the process and ease the lines at county offices where people carry applications and proof of approvals from one office to another.
The new Energov system allows inputting old paper records into the system, which makes much work for county employees, said county Information Tech Director Jules Ung. The county staff is also stretched by new Transient Vacation Rental permit processing, helping victims of last year's volcano eruption and flooding, as well updating the General Plan for the county.
Once the system is fully populated with information and running smoothly, those renovating homes and businesses and proposing new construction should be able to save a lot of time, said county officials.
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A NAVY SUBMARINER KILLED TWO CIVILIAN PEARL HARBOR SHIPYARD WORKERS, injured another, and fatally shot himself today. The shootings, at around 2:30 p.m., led to a lockdown at the nearby U.S.S Arizona Memorial and naval museum, and across the Pearl Harbor-Hickam Navy and Air Force Base on Oʻahu. The New York Timesreported that the unidentified gunman's motivation – whether he targeted the three or fired indiscriminately – is unclear.
Identities of the victims and shooter will be released after next of kin are notified. The injured shipyard worker is in stable condition, according to Rear Admiral Robert B. Chadwick II, commander for the Navy in Hawaiʻi. Chadwick told reporters that the shooter was assigned to the U.S.S. Columbia, a submarine docked at the shipyard for maintenance.
Pearl Harbor Shipyard, where a crew member of a submarine under repair shot and killed two civilian workers and injured another. File photo from U.S. Navy
Said the Rear Admiral, "The role that the shipyard played in World War II is pretty legendary, and the shipyard is well known for the amazing work they did then and the amazing work they continue to do. This is certainly a tragedy for everyone here, and certainly our sincere thoughts are with the families of the victims and everyone involved."
Sen. Mazie Hirono issued the following statement following the shooting: "While the investigation into this incident continues, my thoughts and aloha are with the victims of the terrible tragedy at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and with their families. I join all of Hawaiʻi in expressing our gratitude to the first responders who rush toward danger every day to keep us safe."
Said Gov. David Ige, "I join in solidarity with the people of Hawai‘i as we express our heartbreak over this tragedy and concern for those affected by the shooting. Details are still emerging as security forces at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam investigate. The White House has reached out to offer assistance from federal agencies, and the state is standing by to assist where necessary."
The incident took place three days before the 78th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, on Dec. 7, 1941.
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VISITORS TO HAWAIʻI ISLAND SPENT $177 MILLION IN OCTOBER, an increase of 3.9 percent over last year, according to preliminary statistics from Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority. Hawaiʻi Island saw a 14.5 percent increase in visitor arrivals, compared to arrivals just after the end of last year's eruptive events. However, visitors spent 4.7 percent less per day. So far in 2019, visitor spending on Hawaiʻi Island has decreased 3.6 percent, with a year-to-date increase of 2.8 percent in visitor arrivals.
Visitor spending includes interisland airfare, lodging, car rental, food, shopping, and other expenses while in the state. Statewide, visitors spent $1.33 billion in October, an increase of .9 percent over last year. Average daily visitor spending declined 2.4 percent from last year, largely due to a 15.2 percent drop in expenditures from international markets, not including Japan or Canada. On a bright note, more Japanese visitors went to multiple islands (+8.5%) year-over-year, marking the fourth consecutive month of growth in multiple-island visitation compared to the same timeframe a year ago. In October, spending from the western part of the U.S.mainland increased by 6.2 percent. Japan spending increased by 1.1 percent. Spending by Canadian visitors rose 3.1 percent. Visitors from the eastern part of the U.S.decreased by .6 percent, and all other international markets spend 8.9 percent less than in 2018.
For the state for 2019 through October, visitor spending rose .2 percent, to $14.67 billion. Total average daily spending decreased by 2.6 percent, to $195 per person. Total visitor arrivals increased by 5.5 percent.
So far in 2019, total visitor arrivals increased by 4.8 percent, reflecting a 5.2 percent increase in air arrivals versus an 8.3 percent decrease in cruise ship arrivals. Total visitor days increased by 3.4 percent. The average daily number of visitors also increased by 3.4 percent. See more in the October report at hawaiitourismauthority.org/research/monthly-visitor-statistics/.
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A webcam shot from the rim of Halemaʻumaʻu this morning shows the growing pond. USGS photo
THE HOT, GREEN POND IN HALEMAʻUMAʻU Crater, at the summit of Kīlauea Volcano, continues to grow. First observed July 25, the pond grew to measure about 236 ft. by 518 ft. by the end of November.
U.S. Geolagical Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist Matt Patrick gave a presentation to Hawaiʻi County Council members on Tuesday. Patrick stated that the pond is stable with a slow and consistent rate of water level rise. He said there have been no "obvious changes" in surface activity or color. He said a low rate of sulfur emission, about 45 tons per day, is released from the pond into the air, but that some SO2 is being absorbed by the pond and groundwater.
Measured from a vertical distance of about 603 m (1978 ft) – from water surface to the top of the tripod on the crater
rim – the ongoing rise in water level is noticeable when the two photos, taken three days apart, are compared.
Learn more about the growing pond, below. USGS photos by D. Swanson
Patrick said hazards caused by the pond "most likely" would be "preceded by detectable precursors, such as rapid inflation, or increased seismicity, that indicates magma rising. However, small gas-driven explosions can occur at volcanic lakes without warning and cannot be ruled out." He explained that magma interacting with water can trigger explosive activity, and that Kīlauea's geologic record shows "a long history of larger explosions at the summit, that affected the entire summit region. Some of these explosions are thought to be triggered by rapidly rising magma interacting with surface water, but the exact conditions that produced the explosive behavior are unclear.
Patrick said that, despite elevated Seismicity – compared to pre-2018 – and inflation of the summit – indicating magma continues to fill the chamber – magma remains deep in the system and there are "no detectable signs of imminent unrest at the summit."
During August, the pond grew from several disconnected pools to one larger body of water. USGS photo
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THE FORTY-FIRST PĀHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE will roll through the hilly neighborhoods, down to Ka`u Hospital and onto Holy Rosary Church, this Sunday, Dec. 8, beginning at 1 p.m. at Pāhala Armory. More parade participants are welcome to join in by lining up at the Armory at noon. For more info, call the parade founder and organizer Eddie Andrade at 928-0808. Those watching from the streets will see floats and trailers with Christmas characters and music, classic cars, Kaʻū Coffee farmers, churches, schools, and community groups in the holiday spirit. Along the parade route, Pāhala residents and visitors gather in yards, on porches, and curbside to receive the well wishes of Santa and candy thrown with help from his elves. Eddie Andrade and his friends and family have organized the parade for the last 41 years. The community supports the event, which includes an annual donation from Ed Olson, founder of Kaʻū Coffee Mill. After the parade, HolyRosaryChurch hosts participants and attendees for a free lunch on the church grounds.
Characters are regulars in the Pāhala Christmas Parade this Sunday. Photo by Julia Neal
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THE PUBLIC IS INVITED TO CELEBRATE THE ANNUAL MAKAHIKI that celebrates Hawaiian values, culture, talent, and food this Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 7 and 8, at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach Park. Festivities begin at noon each day. Local bands volunteer to come out and play. Free food is on offer. Many people camp out overnight. Hawaiian crafts, including weaving coconut frond hats, are among the cultural practices that have been featured over the many years of the Makahiki.
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A PERFORMING ARTS WORKSHOP will be held at the University of Hawaiʻi at HiloCampusCenterthis weekend. Session 1 on Saturday, Dec. 7 begins at in room 301. Session 2 on Sunday, Dec. 8 begins at in room 306. All levels of singers, actors, and dancers are welcome. Sessions are $25 for one, $40 for both, to participate; $15 for one and $25 for both to audit; and $30 to audit one session and participate in another.
Pedro Kaʻawaloa and Paige Mason, experienced professionals, will lead the workshop. Both have done fundraising events for Kīlauea Drama and Entertainment. The workshop will cover Vocal, Acting, and Audition Technique; details about "The Biz;" and more. Participants will be worked with one-on-one on a prepared song or monologue. Bring material that is already familiar/is a favorite, a work-in-progress, or audition material. Write down questions to ask. "Get ready for a journey into the craft and business of professional performance," states the announcement. Auditors will be on hand to observe and ask questions of through the process.
Kaʻawaloa is a local boy who moved to New Yorkto pursue performing as a career. Kaʻawaloa recently performed in the National Tour of The King and I as the King of Siam. He has worked for a number of theatre companies across the U.S.and actively auditions in New York Citywhen not on a contract. He also has experience as a professional music director and audition/cabaret accompanist. Some of his notable roles are: El Gallo from The Fantasticks, Captain Hook from Peter Pan, and the Beast from Beauty and the Beast.
Mason is originally from Lexington, KYand is also a professional performer based out of NYC. She has a BFA in Musical Theatre from Coastal Carolina. She most recently was on the International Tour of the Wizard of Oz, understudying both the Wicked Witch and Glinda, but has worked in regional theatres as well. Paige also actively auditions in NYC, but has also auditioned in Floridafor Disney World and done a number of large unified auditions. Some of her notable roles are: Millie from Thoroughly Modern Millie, Fiona from Shrek: The Musical, and Babette from Beauty and the Beast.
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Fit & Firm Volcano Medium Intensity Strength Adult Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $36 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs, or prorating for missed classes. Limited to 15 people. Must call to reserve spot in advance. No drop-ins. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Stewardship at the Summit, Dec. 6, 13, 21 and 28, , meet Paul and Jane Field at KīlaueaVisitorCenter, HVNP. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in the park. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, 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/
Strong Seniors Chair Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $45 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs or prorating for missed classes. No drop ins. Limited to 15 people. Reserve spot in advance. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Painting from Observation with Lisa Maria Martin, Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8, , VolcanoArtCenter. For beginners and intermediate. All supplies provided. $220/VAC member, $240/non-member. See supplies required. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
Realms and Divisions, Saturday, Dec. 7, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult, two-mile, hike. Bring snack. nps.gov/havo
Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Dec. 7, , OceanViewCommunity Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Blackwater Railroad Company Band, Saturday, Dec. 7, , 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. 8
41st Pāhala Christmas Parade, Sunday, Dec. 8, 1p.m. at Pāhala Armory. Parade participants can still sign up by calling Eddie Andrade at 928-0808. See floats and trailers with Christmas characters and music, classic cars, Kaʻū Coffee farmers, churches, schools, and community groups representing the holiday spirit. Receive the well wishes of Santa and candy thrown with help from his elves. After the parade, HolyRosaryChurch traditionally hosts participants and attendees for a free lunch on the church grounds. Eddie Andrade, 928-0808
Medicine for the Mind: Teachings in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition, Sunday, Dec. 8 – 2nd Sunday, monthly – , VolcanoArtCenter. Free; calabash donations welcome. Dress warmly. Patty Johnson, 345-1527, volcanoartcenter.org
Birding at Kīpukapuaulu, Tuesday, Dec. 10 and 24, and Thursday, Dec. 12 and 26, , Kīpukapuaulu - BirdPark - Parking Lot, HVNP. Led by retired USGS Biologist Nic Sherma. Two hour birding tour. $40/person. Register online. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org
Cultural Understanding Through Art & the Environment: Lauhala Weaving Ku‘uipo Kakahiki-Morales, Tuesday, Dec. 10, , VolcanoArtCenter. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
After Dark in the Park: 100th Anniversary of the Mauna Iki Eruption, Tuesday, Dec. 10, , KīlaueaVisitorCenter Auditorium. UH Mānoa geologist Scott Rowland explains the significance of this eruption. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 11
Moa Pahe‘e Games, Wednesday, Dec. 11, -, KīlaueaVisitorCenter lānai. Similar to ‘ulu maika, this game requires a little more strength and skill. In celebration of the annual Makahiki season. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6101, nps.gov/havo
Christmas in the Country featuring 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit, daily, through Dec. 31, Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org
T-Ball and Coach Pitch Baseball League Registration and First Practice:Ocean View Team - Monday, Dec. 2, and Wednesday, Dec. 4, Kahuku Park. Nā‘ālehu Team - Tuesday, Dec. 3, and Thursday, Dec. 5, Nā‘ālehu Park. Pāhala Team (seeking coaches) - attend Nā‘ālehu practice and registration. T-Ball, 3:30-4:30pm, ages 5-6. Coach Pitch, 4:30-6p.m., ages 7-8. Programs take place through April 16. Wear cleats or tennis shoes, bring a glove if possible. Extras gloves available for use. All skills and genders welcome. $35 per teammate. See Ka‘ū Youth Baseball on Facebook. Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511
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 808-938-1088.
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Hawaiʻi State Teachers Association, the union lobbied at the Hawaiʻi legislature for higher pay. Photo from HSTA
KAʻŪ TEACHERS ARE ONE STEP CLOSER TO HIGHER PAY after the Board of Education voted , today, to raise pay for special education and Hawaiian immersion teachers and other teachers who serve in remote locations. The pay hikes begin Jan. 7.
Gov. David Ige pledged to secure the $14.7 million needed for the first six months of the program. In addition the state Department of Education, teachers union and the governor plan to lobby the 2020 legislature for $30.4 million to pay for the salary increase during the July 2020 through June 2021 fiscal year.
Under the initiative, teachers in rural, hard-to-fill positions, such as Kaʻū, would see a yearly pay rise of $3,000 to $8,000. Hawaiian language immersion teachers would receive an additional $8,000 per year. Special education teachers would receive an additional $10,000 per year.
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THE NAVY SUBMARINER WHO KILLED TWO CIVILIAN PEARL HARBOR SHIPYARD WORKERS, injured another, and fatally shot himself yesterday, has been identified. Officials report that the shooter was 22-year-old active-duty sailor Gabriel Romero. Around yesterday, while standing guard over the U.S.S. Columbia submarine undergoing repairs at Pearl Harbor Shipyard, Romero shot the three shipyard personnel with his M4 service rifle, then used his M9 service pistol to kill himself, according to numerous news services. The gunman's motivation is still unclear, and the civilians' names have not yet been released.
U.S.S. Columbia submarine where sailor Gabriel Romero served before taking the lives of Pearl Harbor Shipyard workers and himself. Photo from Wikipedia
Said Sen. Brian Schatz: "Our thoughts are with all of the people affected by this tragedy, especially the families of the victims. For over a century, the Navy, their local civilian colleagues, and the greater Pearl Harborcommunity have worked together every day to protect our nation. That legacy is deeply woven into our history and our state. While we honor the memory of those whose lives were tragically cut short, we also offer our gratitude to the Navy and local first responders who quickly took action with skill and courage."
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard responded to the incident late yesterday: "Sending my aloha and well wishes to the victims of today’s shooting at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. Our gratitude goes out to the first responders who took action to secure the base and keep people safe."
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ALMOST 500 SNAP RECIPIENTS IN HAWAIʻI are likely to be affected by new rules handed down by the federal government. Changes by the Trump administration to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly called Food Stamps, would require able bodied recipients without children, 18-49 years of age, to work at least 80 hours a month or enroll in job training, for at least three months out of 36, to receive SNAP benefits for more than three months. The changes take effect April 1, 2020. Presently, states can extend SNAP benefits beyond three months if the area's unemployment rate is 20 percent higher than the national average. The changes remove that option unless the area has an unemployment rate that is at least six percent, about double the national rate of 3.6. Hawaiʻi's unemployment rate is about 2.7 percent statewide, but it is 3.6 percent in Hawaiʻi County, so anyone able-bodied and age 18-49, with no dependents, who is receiving an extension, may lose benefits.
Said Hirono, "Every year, millions in our country go hungry. Instead of fixing this crisis, Donald Trump has rolled out a new rule that will take away #SNAP benefits for over 700,000 more Americans. As always with this administration, the cruelty is the point."
U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue told reporters the changes are meant to "restore the dignity of work to a sizable segment of our population and be respectful of the taxpayers who fund the program. Americans are generous people who believe it is their responsibility to help their fellow citizens when they encounter a difficult stretch. That's the commitment behind SNAP, but, like other welfare programs, it was never intended to be a way of life."
Brandon Lipps, deputy undersecretary for USDA's Food Nutrition and Consumer Services, said about 688,000 people nationwide will lose access to food stamps. He said that this was an extension of Pres. Donald Trump's April 2018 executive order, "Reducing Poverty in America by Promoting Opportunity and Economic Mobility." The work requirement rule is expected to save the government $5.5 billion over five years, said Lipps.
Stacy Dean, the food assistance policy vice president at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, told NCB News, "The policy targets very poor people struggling to work – some of whom are homeless or living with health conditions. Taking away basic food assistance from these individuals will only increase hardship and hunger, while doing nothing to help them find steady full-time work."
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Craig Hirai, new Director of the state Dept. of Budget and Finance.
CRAIG HIRAI WILL BE THE NEW STATE DIRECTOR OF DEPARTMENT OF BUDGET & FINANCE if he is approved by the state Senate. His appointment by Gov. David Ige is effective Dec. 16. He would replace Neal Miyahira, who will return to his position as budget division administrator at the Department of Budget and Finance.
Said Ige, "Craig's extensive experience and knowledge, along with his administrative skill set will serve our state well. I am elated that Craig has agreed to come onboard as a member of my cabinet. I would also like to thank Neal Miyahira for agreeing to temporarily serve as Budget and Finance director and for doing a fine job while we searched for a permanent candidate."
Hirai has served as executive director of the Hawai‘i Housing Finance & Development Corporation (HHFDC), State of Hawai‘i since 2013. He is also the sole member of Craig K. Hirai, CPA, LLC. Previously, Hirai was a consultant (shareholder/director) at Bowen Hunsaker Hirai Consulting, Inc. and Bowen Hunsaker Hirai, Certified Public Accountants. In addition, Hirai has worked as a tax attorney in private practice.
Hirai is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania(Wharton) where he earned an M.S. in accounting and an M.B.A. He went on to earn his J.D. at Hastings College of Law at the University of California San Francisco, and his LL.M – a Master of Laws (in taxation), a post-graduate law degree from New YorkUniversity.
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TAKE PRECAUTIONS AGAINST THEFT during the holiday season, urges Hawaiʻi Island police. In a statement, HPD advises the public that, with more cars parked at shopping areas or at home while their owners are out shopping or attending parties, criminals have more opportunities to break the law by committing car theft, identity theft, and stealing items from within vehicles. To help prevent vehicle thefts and thefts of items in vehicles, police offer these tips:
Remove keys from vehicle ignition when not in vehicle. Always take keys when departing a vehicle. Never hide a second set of keys in a vehicle. Lock all vehicles when not in use. Park in attended lots and in well-lit areas. Never leave a vehicle running, even if leaving for a short time. Completely close all windows of parked vehicles. At home, park vehicles in a locked garage, if possible. Back any rear-wheel-drive vehicles into a driveway to make it more difficult to tow. When parking on the street, turn vehicle wheels toward the curb to make it more difficult to tow. Set the emergency brake to make a parked car more difficult to tow.
Do not leave valuables or paperwork in plain sight. Eliminate drawing unwanted attention to contents in a vehicle by placing packages or bags and other tempting items – especially cell phones and other electronic equipment – out of sight.
To reduce the threat of theft or identity theft, follow these tips:
When shopping, do not leave purses or bags unattended in shopping carts. All it takes is a split second for a thief to walk by, remove a bag, and flee undetected. Shoppers should keep their bags or purses on their person and zipped or snapped shut. When paying for merchandise, be wary of openly displaying checkbooks or credit cards, as they contain vital financial information that identity thieves can write down or photograph with smart phones. If paying with cash, avoid openly displaying the contents of a wallet. When approaching a vehicle to load purchases, keep at least one hand free to open a trunk or doors. While loading packages, don't leave a handbag or purse unattended. Do not leave any papers with personal information in a car; even blank papers might tempt a thief to break into a car in an attempt to steal information.
Police ask the public to report any suspicious activities by calling HPD's non-emergency line at 935-3311.
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MAGIC OF THE SEASON open house starts Monday, Dec. 9 at the Hawaiʻi County Building in Hilo. The free, annual event runs nightly, from to , through Friday, Dec. 13. Schedule of events is:
Monday, Dec. 9 – Kris Fuchigami & Mom, The Longakit ʻOhana, and DD and the High Rollers.
Tuesday, Dec. 10 – Iwalani Kalima & Hula Hālau O Kou Lima Nani ʻE, Patio Productions, and Mark Yamanaka.
Thursday, Dec. 12 – Randy Lorenzo & Friends, Lori Lei's Hula Studio, and HawaiiCountyBand.
Friday, Dec. 13 – Ben Kaili & Friends, Bending Elbows, and Darlene Ahuna. Donations of non-perishable food for the Hawaiʻi Island Food Bank are welcome from all attendees.
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Fit & Firm Volcano Medium Intensity Strength Adult Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $36 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs, or prorating for missed classes. Limited to 15 people. Must call to reserve spot in advance. No drop-ins. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Stewardship at the Summit, Dec. 6, 13, 21 and 28, , meet Paul and Jane Field at KīlaueaVisitorCenter, HVNP. Volunteers remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in the park. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, 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/
Strong Seniors Chair Exercise Class - 4 weeks, Fridays, starting Dec. 6, ,VolcanoArtCenter. Payment in full of $45 due at first class session, check or exact change. No make-ups, roll-overs or prorating for missed classes. No drop ins. Limited to 15 people. Reserve spot in advance. Puakea, 315-9130, volcanoartcenter.org, soulfitnesshawaiipksm.com
Painting from Observation with Lisa Maria Martin, Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8, , VolcanoArtCenter. For beginners and intermediate. All supplies provided. $220/VAC member, $240/non-member. See supplies required. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
Realms and Divisions, Saturday, Dec. 7, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult, two-mile, hike. Bring snack. nps.gov/havo
Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Dec. 7, , OceanViewCommunity Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Blackwater Railroad Company Band, Saturday, Dec. 7, , 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. 8
41st Pāhala Christmas Parade, Sunday, Dec. 8, starts at Pāhala Armory. Parade participants can still sign up by calling Eddie Andrade at 928-0808. See floats and trailers with Christmas characters and music, classic cars, Kaʻū Coffee farmers, churches, schools, and community groups representing the holiday spirit. Receive the well wishes of Santa and candy thrown with help from his elves. After the parade, HolyRosaryChurch traditionally hosts participants and attendees for a free lunch on the church grounds. Eddie Andrade, 928-0808 Pele & Hi‘iaka, Sunday, Dec. 8, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo
Medicine for the Mind: Teachings in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition, Sunday, Dec. 8 – 2nd Sunday, monthly – , VolcanoArtCenter. Free; calabash donations welcome. Dress warmly. Patty Johnson, 345-1527, volcanoartcenter.org
Birding at Kīpukapuaulu, Tuesday, Dec. 10 and 24, and Thursday, Dec. 12 and 26, , Kīpukapuaulu - BirdPark - Parking Lot, HVNP. Led by retired USGS Biologist Nic Sherma. Two hour birding tour. $40/person. Register online. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org
Cultural Understanding Through Art & the Environment: Lauhala Weaving Ku‘uipo Kakahiki-Morales, Tuesday, Dec. 10, , VolcanoArtCenter. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
After Dark in the Park: 100th Anniversary of the Mauna Iki Eruption, Tuesday, Dec. 10, 7-8p.m., Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium. UH Mānoa geologist Scott Rowland explains the significance of this eruption. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 11
Moa Pahe‘e Games, Wednesday, Dec. 11, -, KīlaueaVisitorCenter lānai. Similar to ‘ulu maika, this game requires a little more strength and skill. In celebration of the annual Makahiki season. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6101, nps.gov/havo
THURSDAY, DEC. 12
Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, Dec. 12, , UnitedMethodistChurch, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkeley Yoshida, 747-0197
Christmas in the Country featuring 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit, daily, through Dec. 31, Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org
T-Ball and Coach Pitch Baseball League:Ocean View Team - Mondays and Wednesdays, Kahuku Park. Nā‘ālehu Team - Tuesdays and Thursdays, Nā‘ālehu Park. Pāhala Team (seeking coaches) - attend Nā‘ālehu practice. T-Ball, 3:30-4:30pm, ages 5-6. Coach Pitch, 4:30-6p.m., ages 7-8. Programs take place through April 16. Wear cleats or tennis shoes, bring a glove if possible. Extras gloves available for use. All skills and genders welcome. $35 per teammate. See Ka‘ū Youth Baseball on Facebook. Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511
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 808-938-1088.
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The 30-year career of soon-to-be retired USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geophysicist Asta Miklius was largely devoted to studying how the motion of the ground reflects magmatic processes beneath the surface. Shown here in 1997, she measured the precise position of a benchmark near Puʻu ʻŌʻō on Kīlauea Volcano's East Rift Zone to track an intrusion of magma. USGS photo
HONORING THE CAREER & CONTRIBUTIONS OF AN HVO SHINING STAR is the title of this week's Volcano Watch, written by staff and associates of Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, U.S. Geological Survey:
On March 30, 2018, a change occurred within the ranks of the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory's staff when geophysicist Asta Miklius retired. One month later, a collapse at Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō heralded the start of Kīlauea Volcano's lower East Rift Zone eruption and summit collapses. In the subsequent chaos of the 2018 volcanic events, Asta’s 30-year career with the HVO deformation group was never properly acknowledged. With the volcanic crisis underway, Asta immediately stepped up to assist with HVO’s eruption response—a testament to her commitment to both HVO and the Island of Hawaiʻi. She then accepted a part-time position with HVO, where she continued working through 2019. Today, we honor the exceptional contributions of our HVO colleague and friend, Asta, who, at the end of this month, again “retires”—for real, this time.
A leader in installing the borehole tiltmeter at the top of Mauana Loa, Asta Miklius worked for decades on this island for USGS. Photo by M. Steiner
Asta grew up in Chicago and earned Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in geology, petrology, and geophysics from the University of Illinois. In 1988, she joined HVO’s staff. At HVO, Asta monitored the deformation of Hawaiian volcanoes and researched how this information could be used to better understand the inner workings of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. She oversaw the transition from older technologies, such as measuring surface motion with lasers, to modern techniques—most notably the continuous Global Positioning System (GPS) network on the Island of Hawaiʻi. Asta also worked to install and operate several other sophisticated instruments, including borehole tiltmeters, borehole strainmeters, and continuous gravimeters. Her job at HVO was neither small nor easy. Instruments needed maintenance, data analysis involved complex computer processing routines, and new technologies required evaluation. This meant that Asta had to be a research scientist, electrical engineer, IT specialist, office manager, and field technician all at the same time. Thanks to her commitment to excellence, Asta ensured that HVO’s geodesy network was always one of, if not the, best in the world. Particularly adept at collaboration, she worked with both U.S. and international scientists to conduct experiments and pursue cutting-edge research. During Asta’s career, HVO hosted numerous USGS scientists who generally rotated in from mainland positions for a few years. Through these many transitions, Asta was the glue that held HVO’s deformation effort together. Credit for HVO’s reputation as a leader in volcano deformation research and monitoring largely belongs to her.
Asta Miklius helped lead the development of HVO's reputation as a leader in volcano deformation research and monitoring. USGS photo by C. Parcheta
In the 1990s and 2000s, Asta led the charge to better instrument Mauna Loa with GPS stations and was the first to recognize the complex deformation occurring at the volcano. She showed that the south side of Mauna Loa is sliding southward, much like at Kīlauea, and that the complex pattern of uplift at Mauna Loa’s summit is due to multiple magma reservoirs, rather than one simple source as had long been assumed. Asta also lent her expertise to studies of Kīlauea, recognizing that magma supply to the volcano fluctuates and impacts eruptive activity. In staff discussions, especially during the dramatic events leading to the 2018 summit collapse, Asta’s voice was one of the most respected in the room. She used her incredible experience and insight to guide both scientific and societal responses to Kīlauea’s activity, and mentored HVO staff in their responses to volcanic events. In addition to her research and monitoring work, Asta led the effort to modernize HVO’s data management system, helping to integrate all data streams (deformation, seismic, gas, and others) into a common database so that scientists can better understand changes that occur on volcanoes. Tools that Asta maintained are now used by volcano observatories around the world. Asta also tirelessly contributes time to island communities. Her well-known efforts include the restoration of native ecosystems and the rescue of animals, especially during volcanic crises. In 1990, Asta evacuated cats and dogs from Kalapana as lava flows approached, adopting her long-time feline companion, Lili, in the process. In 2018, Asta again helped save hundreds of pets and livestock from encroaching lava flows. Her kindness touches everyone she meets. We thank you, Asta, for your friendship and unselfish dedication to HVO and Hawaiʻi. Both are better places because of your wisdom and compassion—and we are all better people for knowing and working alongside you. You are indeed a shining star and we wish you all the best. Visit HVO's website, volcanoes.usgs.gov/hvo, for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake info, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.
Mauna Loa is slowly moving to the southeast, as evidenced by Hilina Pali and Hilina Slump. Asta Miklius, of USGS, has been a leader in understanding how volcanoes move. Image from Wikipedia
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MAKING AND TAKING CHRISTMAS CRAFTS is on the schedule for next Thursday, Dec. 12 at Ka`u District Gym Mulipurpose room. From 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. a Stanta's Workshop will be held. t's called Hale Hana `O Kanakaloka. Sponsors are the county Departemnt of Parks & Recreation - Pahala, Uplinks After School Allstars, Tutu & Me, Boys & Girls Cloub, and Hui Malama Ola Na Oiwi.
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TO INCREASE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY, County of Hawai'i Department of Public Works Traffic Division will convert the intersection of Pikake Street and Kamani Street in Pahala to an all-way stop. The work, which includes enhanced striping, pavement legends and signage, is tentatively scheduled to take place Jan. 21 to 24, 2020, between a.m. and 2:00 p.m., weather and construction conditions permitting. The all-way stop is being installed in response to community concerns for pedestrian safety at the intersection with a bus stop, market, pharmacy, post office, two food stores and the road into Ka`u District gym and the public school campus and library. It's Pahala's busiest corner. During this work period traffic flow will be controlled by special duty officers. Motorists are advised to expect delays and are encouraged to use alternate routes. The County of Hawai'i Department of Public Works apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and thanks the community for patience and understanding. If there are any questions or concerns, call the Traffic Division at 961-8341.
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NĀ LEO O HAWAIʻI PUBLIC TELEVISION CELEBRATES 25 YEARS on Friday, Dec. 20. The public is invited to join in the celebration at Sangha Hall in Hilo. Tickets are $30 each, or purchase a table of 8 for $250. Live music will be provided by Media and by Hawaiʻi's "last Rock n Roll Band," Wasabi from Honolulu. There will be pūpū, a buffet dinner, and much more. Purchase tickets at the Hilo office at 91 Mohouli Street or by calling (808) 935-8874. Visit the website for more information. "This is a great opportunity to end the year with fellowship and fun. Hope to see you there as we celebrate a quarter-century of public access television throughout Hawaiʻi Island," states the announcement from the station.
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Painting from Observation with Lisa Maria Martin, Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8, , VolcanoArtCenter. For beginners and intermediate. All supplies provided. $220/VAC member, $240/non-member. See supplies required. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
Realms and Divisions, Saturday, Dec. 7, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderately difficult, two-mile, hike. Bring snack. nps.gov/havo
Ocean View C.E.R.T. Mtg., Saturday, Dec. 7, , OceanViewCommunity Center. Community Emergency Response Team monthly meeting and training. 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Blackwater Railroad Company Band, Saturday, Dec. 7, , Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, in HVNP. $5 cover charge. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com
Eddie Andrade will be Santa this Sunday in the Pahala Christmas Parade. It's his 41st year organizing the event. Photo by Julia Neal
SUNDAY, DEC. 8
41st Pāhala Christmas Parade, Sunday, Dec. 8, starts at Pāhala Armory, winds through the village to Ka`u Hospital and back to Holy Rosary Church for refreshments. Eddie Andrade, 928-0808 Pele & Hi‘iaka, Sunday, Dec. 8, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo
Medicine for the Mind: Teachings in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition, Sunday, Dec. 8 – 2nd Sunday, monthly – , VolcanoArtCenter. Free; calabash donations welcome. Dress warmly. Patty Johnson, 345-1527, volcanoartcenter.org
Birding at Kīpukapuaulu, Tuesday, Dec. 10 and 24, and Thursday, Dec. 12 and 26, , Kīpukapuaulu - BirdPark - Parking Lot, HVNP. Led by retired USGS Biologist Nic Sherma. Two hour birding tour. $40/person. Register online. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org
Cultural Understanding Through Art & the Environment: Lauhala Weaving Ku‘uipo Kakahiki-Morales, Tuesday, Dec. 10, , VolcanoArtCenter. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
After Dark in the Park: 100th Anniversary of the Mauna Iki Eruption, Tuesday, Dec. 10, , KīlaueaVisitorCenter Auditorium. UH Mānoa geologist Scott Rowland explains the significance of this eruption. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 11
Moa Pahe‘e Games, Wednesday, Dec. 11, -, KīlaueaVisitorCenter lānai. Similar to ‘ulu maika, this game requires a little more strength and skill. In celebration of the annual Makahiki season. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6101, nps.gov/havo
THURSDAY, DEC. 12
Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, Dec. 12, , UnitedMethodistChurch, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkeley Yoshida, 747-0197
Christmas in the Country featuring 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit, daily, through Dec. 31, Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org
T-Ball and Coach Pitch Baseball League:Ocean View Team - Mondays and Wednesdays, Kahuku Park. Nā‘ālehu Team - Tuesdays and Thursdays, Nā‘ālehu Park. Pāhala Team (seeking coaches) - attend Nā‘ālehu practice. T-Ball, 3:30-4:30pm, ages 5-6. Coach Pitch, 4:30-6p.m., ages 7-8. Programs take place through April 16. Wear cleats or tennis shoes, bring a glove if possible. Extras gloves available for use. All skills and genders welcome. $35 per teammate. See Ka‘ū Youth Baseball on Facebook. Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511
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 808-938-1088.
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Measles has killed nearly 70 in the Independent State of Samoa and nine cases are confirmed in American Samoa. Both governments shut down schools and launched mass inoculations for those four months to 60 years of age. Photo by Logan Church RNZ
AMERICAN SAMOA ANNOUNCED NINE MEASLES CASES ON FRIDAY and will shut down all schools and public gathering in parks, starting this Monday, announced the U.S. territorial government. Health Department Epidemiologist Dr. Aifili John Tufa made the announcement on American Samoan television saying that samples from infected American Samoans were tested in Hawaiʻi, leading to confirmation that "We are currently in the state of emergency" and "measles outbreak." The spread of the virus comes during an epidemic in the nearby Independent State of Samoa that has killed nearly 70, most of them children, four and under. Neighboring Pacific Island countries Tonga and Fiji are under a state of emergency. Seventy Hawaiʻi health workers began returning from the Apia, the capital of Independent State of Samoa, on Friday after helping to inoculate more than 40,000. Lt. Gov. Josh Green, who began his Hawaiʻi medical career in Kaʻū, joined the mission to administer the vaccine to as many people as possible in 48 hours. Aid from all over the world has flooded into Samoa, including from organizations such as the World Health Organization and UNICEF.
Lt. Gov. Josh Green, left, with Samoa PM Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi. Photo from the Samoa Government
Green applauded Samoan officials for the immunization campaign, "the bold action you've taken. But there is going to continue, I would presume, to be some fatalities, less and less I would expect, because you have done such a good job of getting people immunized so quickly." About 89 percent of Samoa's population of 201,300 is now inoculated and health officials say they are hoping that the epidemic will be over soon. Measles has infected about 4,460 Samoans since October when the virus began to spread quickly. In late October, the Samoan government based in Apia declared a state of emergency and made vaccinations compulsory. All Samoan schools were closed and children banned from public gatherings. On Dec. 2, the government implemented a curfew and cancelled all public gatherings. Last Thursday and Friday, Samoan officials told the entire population, except essential public utilities workers, to stay home. Roads closed to nonessential vehicles. Teams traveled door-to-door to administer vaccines to those who hung red flags from their houses – indicating that un-immunized people lived there.
Samoa's Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, said the death toll could be attributed to lack of immunization and seeking medical assistance too late. The immunization level was about 30 percent last year, according to the World Health Organization and UNICEF.
The country of Samoa's website, health.gov.ws, overflows
with advice on measles, vaccinations, and more,
in both Samoan and English.
A sharp drop in measles vaccination followed "an incident in 2018 when two infants died shortly after receiving measles vaccinations, which led the country to suspend its measles vaccination program. The reason for the two infants' deaths was incorrect preparation of the vaccine by two nurses who mixed vaccine powder with expired anesthetic," according to a post on Wikipedia.
Tuilaepa said he wants bring Samoato 90 percent vaccination coverage, and will implement penalties for parents who don't vaccinate their children.
Green said, "Your government is doing a very smart thing to immunize people aggressively." He said that global support for Samoa shows care for the Samoan people. Donations funded almost all of the $2 million expended by the team from Hawaiʻi for the rapid immunization project.
This week, WHO announced that measles infected nearly ten million people worldwide in 2018. Most of the 140,000 who died were children. WHO said provisional data for 2019 up to November shows there are three times as many cases this year than in 2018. Kate O'Brien, WHO's top executive on immunization, stated, "The reason we're having increases in cases and deaths of measles has to do fundamentally with people not getting vaccinated."
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Vincent Kapoi. Photo from his family
THE NAMES OF TWO CIVILIAN PEARL HARBOR SHIPYARD WORKERS, FATALLY SHOT on Wednesday, have been released. Roldan A. Agustin, 49, and Vincent J. Kapoi, 30, were both from Hawaiʻi. They worked for the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers. The worker who survived is in stable condition but has not been identified to the public.
According to a statement from his family, Kapoi was a husband, son, brother, and uncle, and was of Native Hawaiian and Filipino heritage. Kapoi was a metals inspector apprentice through the shipyard's Intermediate Maintenance Facility Apprentice Program. Agustin was a shop planner.
On Wednesday, around , while guarding the USS Columbia, 22-year old Navy submariner Gabriel Romero, of Texas, fatally shot Kapoi and Roldan, and injured the third man, using an M4 service rifle. Romero used his M9 service pistol to kill himself. According to numerous reports, the shooter faced disciplinary issues, involving several review board appearances, regarding neglecting his duties and punching equipment such as lockers. He was under review for a Captain's Mast, a disciplinary action one step lower than a court marshal, meant for minor criminal offenses.
Hawaiʻi has the lowest gun death rate in the U.S., with 2.4 deaths per 100,000 residents, according to the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. The state's strict firearms laws are rated seventh in the nation, and include bans on assault weapons and large-capacity ammunition magazines.
In a second shooting incident at a U.S. Navy base this week, a Saudi national, in aviation training for two years in Pensacola, FL, opened fire in a classroom building, leaving three victims dead and eight wounded. The shooter killed himself. The New York Times reported the shooter showed films of mass shootings at a dinner party the night before he killed his victims.
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THE 78TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WORLD WAR II ATTACK ON PEARL HARBOR is commemorated today all over Hawaiʻi. On Oʻahu a total of 2,403 died from the attack: 2,008 Navy personnel, 218 Army, 109 Marines, and 68 civilians. About half as many suffered wounds: 1,143, including 710 Navy, 364 Army, 69 Marines, and 103 civilians.
Iwao Yonemitsu (left) and the late Toku Nakano, of the
Greatest Generation, served in the 442nd Combat Team
in World War II and returned to Kaʻū to lead very
productive lives as Japanese Americans.
Photo by Julia Neal
Sen. Brian Schatz posted this message today: "Seventy-eight years ago, more than 2,400 American patriots lost their lives at Pearl Harbor.
"Today, we remember their service, salute their heroism, and honor their families. We also give thanks to the veterans and survivors who answered the call to defend our nation.
"The Greatest Generation faced one of the darkest moments in human history with bravery and resolve. They achieved what President Roosevelt foretold would be their inevitable triumph: they defeated the forces of tyranny and secured freedom for all the generations that followed.
"Let us draw from their strength, learn from their love of country, and always strive to live up to their example."
A statement from Sen. Mazie Hirono's office read: "Every year on December 7th, we honor the tremendous sacrifice of the more than 2,000 service members who lost their lives on this solemn day.
"In the weeks, months, and years that followed, brave Americans answered our country's call to serve, and together triumphed in WWII. The veterans of this conflict – including the Congressional Gold Medal recipients of the 442nd Infantry Regiment, the 100th Infantry Battalion, and the Military Intelligence Service from HI – are called the Greatest Generation because they fully embody the values of our country.
"It is incumbent on all of us to continue to defend the values of democracy and freedom they fought so hard to protect."
Rep. Ed Case wrote, "Remembering today all those we lost 78 years ago, with the heartfelt hope that you would be proud of what we have accomplished since on your sacrifice. #PearlHarborRemembranceDay"
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CONTINUE THE CELEBRATION OF THE ANNUAL MAKAHIKI tomorrow, Sunday, Dec. 8, at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach Park. Festivities begin at noon. At the celebration of Hawaiian values, culture, talent, and food, local bands volunteer to come out and play. Free food is on offer. Hawaiian crafts, including weaving coconut frond hats, are among the cultural practices that have been featured over the many years of the Makahiki.
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Holy Rosary singers ride a trailer during last year's parade through Pāhala. The church hosts refreshments after the parade. Photo by Julia Neal
PĀHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE will be held tomorrow, Sunday, Dec. 8. The 41st event starts at Pāhala Armory at 1 p.m. Parade participants can line up starting at 11:30 a.m. Expected are floats and trailers with Christmas characters and music, classic cars, Kaʻū Coffee farmers, churches, schools, and community groups representing the holiday spirit. Receive the well wishes of Santa and candy thrown with help from his elves. After the parade, Holy Rosary Church traditionally hosts participants and attendees for refreshments on the church grounds. For more, call Santa and organizer Eddie Andrade, 928-0808.
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41st Pāhala Christmas Parade, Sunday, Dec. 8, starts at Pāhala Armory. Parade participants can still sign up by calling Eddie Andrade at 928-0808. See floats and trailers with Christmas characters and music, classic cars, Kaʻū Coffee farmers, churches, schools, and community groups representing the holiday spirit. Receive the well wishes of Santa and candy thrown with help from his elves. After the parade, Holy Rosary Church traditionally hosts participants and attendees for a free lunch on the church grounds. Eddie Andrade, 928-0808 Pele & Hi‘iaka, Sunday, Dec. 8, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, moderate, one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo
Medicine for the Mind: Teachings in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition, Sunday, Dec. 8 – 2nd Sunday, monthly – , VolcanoArtCenter. Free; calabash donations welcome. Dress warmly. Patty Johnson, 345-1527, volcanoartcenter.org
Birding at Kīpukapuaulu, Tuesday, Dec. 10 and 24, and Thursday, Dec. 12 and 26, , Kīpukapuaulu - BirdPark - Parking Lot, HVNP. Led by retired USGS Biologist Nic Sherma. Two hour birding tour. $40/person. Register online. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org
Cultural Understanding Through Art & the Environment: Lauhala Weaving Ku‘uipo Kakahiki-Morales, Tuesday, Dec. 10, , VolcanoArtCenter. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
After Dark in the Park: 100th Anniversary of the Mauna Iki Eruption, Tuesday, Dec. 10, , KīlaueaVisitorCenter Auditorium. UH Mānoa geologist Scott Rowland explains the significance of this eruption. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 11
Moa Pahe‘e Games, Wednesday, Dec. 11, -, KīlaueaVisitorCenter lānai. Similar to ‘ulu maika, this game requires a little more strength and skill. In celebration of the annual Makahiki season. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6101, nps.gov/havo
THURSDAY, DEC. 12
Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka‘ū, Thursday, Dec. 12, , UnitedMethodistChurch, Nā‘ālehu. Pres. Berkeley Yoshida, 747-0197
Nā Mamo o Kāwā Community Access Day, Saturday, Dec. 14, gates open , Kāwā. All cars must park at end of road fronting Kāwā Flats. Dogs must be on leash. No driving through fish pond. 557-1433, nmok.org, facebook.com/NMOK.Hawaii
Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, Dec. 14, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Guided Hike On A 60 Year Old Lava Lake, Saturday, Dec. 14, , Kīlauea Iki Overlook, HVNP. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational 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
Holidays at Kahuku: Hawaiian-Made Craft Fair, Saturday, Dec. 14, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free entry. Entertainment, food, shave ice. nps.gov/havo
Ocean View Keiki Christmas with St. Jude's Christmas Celebration, Saturday, Dec. 14, 10a.m-2p.m., KahukuPark and lower parking lot of St. Jude's.
Zentangle Artist Inspired Workshop with Lydia Meneses, Saturday, Dec. 14, , Volcano Art Center. Creative tangle techniques inspired by Gustav Klimt and Keith Haring. Art supplies provided. Open to all levels. No experience required. Potluck, bring snack to share. $30/VAC member, $35/non-member, plus $15 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
Hula Kahiko - Kumu Kapuaikapoliopele Ka‘au‘a with Unuokeahi and Unuiti, Saturday, Dec. 14, , hula platform near Volcano Art Center Gallery. Hula performance. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org
Nā Mea Hula with Kumu Hula Moses Kaho‘okele Crabbe, Saturday, Dec. 14, , Volcano Art Center Gallery porch. Hands-on cultural demonstration. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org
Jazz in the Forest: Christmas Jazz, Saturday, Dec. 14, , VolcanoArtCenter. Featuring Jean Pierre Thoma & the Jazztones with Jeannine Guillory-Kane performing classics of the holiday season. Ticket are $20/VAC member, $25/non-member. Purchase tickets online through Jan. 13, VAC Admin Office or VAC Gallery. Pūpū, wine, and beer available for purchase. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
Christmas Lighting Parade, Saturday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m., along Hwy. 11, from Nā‘ālehu Elementary School to Nā‘ālehu Community Center. Refreshments to follow at Community Center. Ka‘ū Roping & Riding Association. Participants sign waiver by 5p.m. at school. SoulTown Band, Saturday, Dec. 14, , Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, in HVNP. $5 cover charge. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com
Volcano Chorus: 25th Annual Holiday Concert, Saturday, Dec. 14, m., Kīlauea Military Camp's Theater, in HVNP. Free; donations accepted. Park entrance fees may apply. 982-7344, kden73@aol.com
Christmas in the Country featuring 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit, daily, through Dec. 31, Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org
T-Ball and Coach Pitch Baseball League:Ocean View Team - Mondays and Wednesdays, Kahuku Park. Nā‘ālehu Team - Tuesdays and Thursdays, Nā‘ālehu Park. Pāhala Team (seeking coaches) - attend Nā‘ālehu practice. T-Ball, 3:30-4:30pm, ages 5-6. Coach Pitch, 4:30-6p.m., ages 7-8. Programs take place through April 16. Wear cleats or tennis shoes, bring a glove if possible. Extras gloves available for use. All skills and genders welcome. $35 per teammate. See Ka‘ū Youth Baseball on Facebook. Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511
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 808-938-1088.
To read comments, add your own, and like this story, see Facebook. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter. See our online calendars and our latest print edition at kaucalendar.com.
The 41st annual Pāhala Christmas Parade - produced every year by Santa, Eddie Andrade, with family and friends - wound through the sunny streets of the village today. See more photos below. Photos by Julia Neal
THE DEATH OF ARTIST SHINGO HONDA is prompting police to ask the public for any clues of motive and any witness statements. Under arrest is Michael Cecil Lee, whom police picked up yesterday at the Pāhoa Christmas Parade. Police charged him last night with second-degree murder, with bail set at $250,000.
Honda, 75, was an artist in Tokyo, LA, and Hawaiʻi Island, with shows here and abroad, and commissions for images he developed for private and public places. East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center hosted his 2016 show called Transience.
Honda wrote: "I've been making art for over 50 years, and each series is different from another, but not. I've made installations, prints, paintings, sculpture, and public works. I've been influenced by the different places where I've lived or visited, but it all goes back to a moment in childhood which crystallized my ongoing theme. "I was born in Northern Japan — snow country. As a child I was fascinated by the thin ice which formed on a puddle of water. I'd pick up the ice, so shiny and beautiful, reflecting the sunlight, but, in a moment, it was gone. It had melted in my hand. "I liked that transient, ever-changing world and it has always been what I've wanted to express. The word 'permanent' is unrealistic. There's no such thing. I want to melt an irrational concept. "Hawaiʻi nature's strong contrast, my everyday bug's eye view of it, is also that." See more on Honda at shingohonda.com and at East Hawaiʻi Cultural Center. Honda and his wife, author Lynne Farr, lived in upper Puna in Orchid Land Estates. Police found his body a few hundred feet from home after his wife reported him missing. According to police, an autopsy revealed that blunt-force trauma caused his death. A court appearance for the accused is set for Monday in Hilo.
Information on this case can be reported to police by calling 935-3311 or Crime Stoppers by calling 961-8300.
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THE PASSION KILLING BY AN EIGHT MONTHS PREGNANT WOMAN who fatally stabbed a woman she found with her boyfriend at Whittington Beach Park in April, netted a sentence of eight years in prison. Judge Melvin Fujino sentenced 20-year old Kaleianuenue Borero-Kaluna, of Nāʻālehu, as a youthful offender. The father of her unborn child at the time of the killing was 36.
Public defender Ann Datta negotiated a deal with prosecutors for Kaluna to plead no contest to manslaughter, and asked for probation with credit for 225 days in custody. Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Stephen Frye asked for 20 years. The mother of victim asked for life in prison, which the judge said was impossible for a manslaughter conviction. A story in today's Hawaiʻi Tribune Herald quoted Kaluna's testimony before sentencing: "I have dealt with my fair share of trials and tribulations and I continue to deal with them daily. This one, by far, is the worst. I'm so speechless of my actions, I wish I could turn back time and do everything differently; unfortunately, it doesn't work like that. I've grown a lot as a person and learned about myself as well. My family raised me better than this and it's sad to say I let them down but more importantly I let myself down. "And, honestly, I am so truly sorry to the family and their loss. I regret everyday the poor decision that led me up to this predicament." She also said, "I understand there are consequences to my actions and I am ready to face them."
The victim, Marie Lyn Boyles, most recently from Alaska, died at the scene. Kaluna also stabbed her male companion, but he survived.
According to the Hawaiʻi Tribune Herald report, the public defender filed a motion to reduce Kaluna's sentence, following the judge'e decision to give her eight years.
Megan Lamson of Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund. Photo from Big Island Video News
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A POTENTIAL SOLUTION to the large amount of plastic waste in Hawaiʻi came to the Hawaiʻi County Environmental Management Commission from Megan Lamson of Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund. On Nov. 27, she gave the address, saying over 50,000 pounds of plastics washed up on Hawaiʻi Island shores this year, with much of it landing on KamiloBeach in Kaʻū. In addition, many more tons of plastic waste are generated by on-island consumers throwing away plastic containers.
Lamson introduced ByBlock - plastic waste directly processed into building material. The manufacturer is ByFusion, byfusion.com, which states that its "Blocker" system "turns 100 percent of plastic waste into ByBlock – an advanced, cost-effective building material." The process is "eco-friendly," and "uses steam and compression" to directly convert any plastic waste into ByBlocks, with "no added chemicals. No fillers. No waste." There is no sorting, no cleaning, and no pre-processing needed, according to ByFusion.
Lamson said the ByBlock process avoids plastic melting and burning that would create more pollution.
The blocks each weigh about 22 lbs. (10 kg) and are made for use in new construction and to "replace concrete bricks and blocks." Using the upcycled plastic for building could cut carbon emissions and lower the cost of building materials, said Lamson and a commission member.
A ByBlock, partially made from plastics waste from Hawaiʻi.
Photo from Big Island Video News
A marine biologist, Lamson leads the Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund program to clean shorelines. In the last decade, volunteers carried away more than 282 tons, most of it plastic, including derelict fishing nets. She presented the commission a sample of a ByBlock, partly made from plastics waste from Hawaiʻi. The shape is reminiscent of an oversized, two-stud Lego. Lamson said the blocks need to be sealed to avoid breaking down from "too much exposure to UV."
Lamson said that plastics have been mass produced – and consumed – since the '50s. "Even if we cut it off, and move forward with single-use plastic phase-out (and) bans statewide, we're still going to have an awful lot of waste. We're still gonna have tons and tons washing up along our shorelines."
She contended that make building blocks out of plastics waste is "a win/win, because we have a disposal issue. Right now, we are throwing the vast amounts of our mixed plastic waste away (except derelict fishing nets that are burned for electricity.) They're just going in the landfill." She said ByFusion is interested in having "island-scale facilities" in Hawaiʻi.
Clyde Silva, right, with his Holy Rosary Church choir. Photos by Julia Neal
Lamson said the most important way to reduce plastic waste is to cut down on its use. "Ideally, if this business model works, for the ByFusion company or our island, they'll be out of a job in several decades" as use of plastics declines.
Lamson said she has no financial stake in the ByFusion company. In July, she flew to Kauaʻi for the unveiling and blessing of the first ever permanent building made of ByBlocks. She said some of the blocks will be used on Maui in a project soon.
Kaʻū Coffee Mill and its founder Ed Olson are sponsors of the parade.
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MEASLES VACCINES ARE REQUIRED for anyone traveling to American Samoa. Schools there are closed and children are barred from public gatherings. The outbreak in the Independent State of Samoa has claimed at least 70 lives, most young children, since October. The count was 65 on Friday. Read more in yesterday's Kaʻū News Briefs.
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Santa visits with long-term patients at Kaʻū Hospital.
PĀHALA CHRISTMAS PARADE took joy today to Kaʻū Hospital long term patients with a visit from Santa and other participants. The 41st annual event, organized by the Eddie Andrade family, found a sunny day for the ride through the neighborhood, with carols and gifts of candies to the children. The Kaʻū Coffee community of farmers, Kaʻū Coffee Mill, and the Miss Kaʻū Coffee court rolled through town as did churches, the Filipino Club, and Tūtū & Me program for children. All were fed at the Holy Rosary Church at the end of the parade route. See more in tomorrow's Kaʻū News Briefs.
The Pāhala Filipino Club celebrates Christmas with red, white, and blue.
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Hawaiʻi Coffee Association President Chris Manfredi donates his classic truck for the Kaʻū Coffee Growers Cooperative ride in the parade.
TUESDAY, DEC. 10
Birding at Kīpukapuaulu, Tuesday, Dec. 10 and 24, and Thursday, Dec. 12 and 26, , Kīpukapuaulu - BirdPark - Parking Lot, HVNP. Led by retired USGS Biologist Nic Sherma. Two hour birding tour. $40/person. Register online. Organized by Friends of Hawai‘i VolcanoesNational Park. 985-7373, admin@fhvnp.org, fhvnp.org
Cultural Understanding Through Art & the Environment: Lauhala Weaving Ku‘uipo Kakahiki-Morales, Tuesday, Dec. 10, , VolcanoArtCenter. $10 per person supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
After Dark in the Park: 100th Anniversary of the Mauna Iki Eruption, Tuesday, Dec. 10, , KīlaueaVisitorCenter Auditorium. UH Mānoa geologist Scott Rowland explains the significance of this eruption. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6011, nps.gov/havo
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 11
Moa Pahe‘e Games, Wednesday, Dec. 11, -, KīlaueaVisitorCenter lānai. Similar to ‘ulu maika, this game requires a little more strength and skill. In celebration of the annual Makahiki season. Free; park entrance fees apply. 985-6101, nps.gov/havo
Nā Mamo o Kāwā Community Access Day, Saturday, Dec. 14, gates open , Kāwā. All cars must park at end of road fronting Kāwā Flats. Dogs must be on leash. No driving through fish pond. 557-1433, nmok.org, facebook.com/NMOK.Hawaii
Pancake Breakfast and Raffle, Saturday, Dec. 14, 8-11a.m., Ocean View Community Center. To volunteer, call 939-7033, ovcahi.org
Guided Hike On A 60 Year Old Lava Lake, Saturday, Dec. 14, , 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
Holidays at Kahuku: Hawaiian-Made Craft Fair, Saturday, Dec. 14, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free entry. Entertainment, food, shave ice. nps.gov/havo
Ocean View Keiki Christmas with St. Jude's Christmas Celebration, Saturday, Dec. 14, 10a.m-2p.m., KahukuPark and lower parking lot of St. Jude's.
Zentangle Artist Inspired Workshop with Lydia Meneses, Saturday, Dec. 14, , Volcano Art Center. Creative tangle techniques inspired by Gustav Klimt and Keith Haring. Art supplies provided. Open to all levels. No experience required. Potluck, bring snack to share. $30/VAC member, $35/non-member, plus $15 supply fee. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
Hula Kahiko - Kumu Kapuaikapoliopele Ka‘au‘a with Unuokeahi and Unuiti, Saturday, Dec. 14, , hula platform near Volcano Art Center Gallery. Hula performance. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org
Nā Mea Hula with Kumu Hula Moses Kaho‘okele Crabbe, Saturday, Dec. 14, , Volcano Art Center Gallery porch. Hands-on cultural demonstration. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-8222, volcanohula@gmail.com, volcanoartcenter.org
Jazz in the Forest: Christmas Jazz, Saturday, Dec. 14, , VolcanoArtCenter. Featuring Jean Pierre Thoma & the Jazztones with Jeannine Guillory-Kane performing classics of the holiday season. Ticket are $20/VAC member, $25/non-member. Purchase tickets online through Jan. 13, VAC Admin Office or VAC Gallery. Pūpū, wine, and beer available for purchase. 967-8222, volcanoartcenter.org
Christmas Lighting Parade, Saturday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m., along Hwy. 11, from Nā‘ālehu Elementary School to Nā‘ālehu Community Center. Refreshments to follow at Community Center. Ka‘ū Roping & Riding Association. Participants sign waiver by 5p.m. at school. SoulTown Band, Saturday, Dec. 14, , Kīlauea Military Camp's Lava Lounge, in HVNP. $5 cover charge. Open to authorized patrons and sponsored guests. Park entrance fees apply. kilaueamilitarycamp.com
Volcano Chorus: 25th Annual Holiday Concert, Saturday, Dec. 14, , Kīlauea Military Camp's Theater, in HVNP. Free; donations accepted. Park entrance fees may apply. 982-7344, kden73@aol.com
SUNDAY, DEC. 15
3rd Annual Hawai‘i Bird Conservation Marathon, Sunday, Dec. 15, Volcano Golf and Country Club to Boy Scouts' Kīlauea Camp. Funds raised support endemic birds of Hawai‘i through the Hawai‘i Forest Institute for the Keauhou Bird Conservation Center Discovery Forest in Volcano. Race registration closed. Donations welcome; donors of over $100 invited to behind the scene tour of Keauhou Bird Conservation Center Discovery Forest, 10a.m.-noon, Saturday, Dec. 14. hawaiiforestinstitute.kindful.com ‘Ōhi‘a Lehua, Sunday, Dec. 15, , Kahuku Unit, HVNP. Free, easy one-mile walk. nps.gov/havo
Christmas in the Country featuring 20th Annual Invitational Wreath Exhibit, daily, through Dec. 31, Volcano Art Center Gallery. Free; park entrance fees apply. 967-7565, volcanoartcenter.org
T-Ball and Coach Pitch Baseball League:Ocean View Team - Mondays and Wednesdays, Kahuku Park. Nā‘ālehu Team - Tuesdays and Thursdays, Nā‘ālehu Park. Pāhala Team (seeking coaches) - attend Nā‘ālehu practice. T-Ball, 3:30-4:30pm, ages 5-6. Coach Pitch, 4:30-6p.m., ages 7-8. Programs take place through April 16. Wear cleats or tennis shoes, bring a glove if possible. Extras gloves available for use. All skills and genders welcome. $35 per teammate. See Ka‘ū Youth Baseball on Facebook. Josh or Elizabeth Crook, 345-0511
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 808-938-1088.
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.
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
